Sample records for functionally graded air

  1. Grading of Emphysema Is Indispensable for Predicting Prolonged Air Leak After Lung Lobectomy.

    PubMed

    Murakami, Junichi; Ueda, Kazuhiro; Tanaka, Toshiki; Kobayashi, Taiga; Hamano, Kimikazu

    2018-04-01

    The aim of this study was to assess the utility of quantitative computed tomography-based grading of emphysema for predicting prolonged air leak after thoracoscopic lobectomy. A consecutive series of 284 patients undergoing thoracoscopic lobectomy for lung cancer was retrospectively reviewed. Prolonged air leak was defined as air leaks lasting 7 days or longer. The grade of emphysema (emphysema index) was defined by the proportion of the emphysematous lung volume (less than -910 HU) to the total lung volume (-600 to -1,024 HU) by a computer-assisted histogram analysis of whole-lung computed tomography scans. The mean length of chest tube drainage was 1.5 days. Fifteen patients (5.3%) presented with prolonged air leak. According to a receiver-operating characteristics curve analysis, the emphysema index was the best predictor of prolonged air leak, with an area under the curve of 0.85 (95% confidence interval: 0.73 to 0.98). An emphysema index of 35% or greater was the best cutoff value for predicting prolonged air leak, with a negative predictive value of 0.99. The emphysema index was the only significant predictor for the length of postoperative chest tube drainage among conventional variables, including the pulmonary function and resected lobe, in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Prolonged air leak resulted in an increased duration of hospitalization (p < 0.001) and was frequently accompanied by pneumonia or empyema (p < 0.001). The grade of emphysema on computed tomography scan is the best predictor of prolonged air leak that adversely influences early postoperative outcomes. We must take new measures against prolonged air leak in quantitative computed tomography-based high-risk patients. Copyright © 2018 The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Association of Traffic-Related Air Pollution with Children’s Neurobehavioral Functions in Quanzhou, China

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Shunqin; Zhang, Jinliang; Zeng, Xiaodong; Zeng, Yimin; Wang, Shengchun; Chen, Shuyun

    2009-01-01

    Background With the increase of motor vehicles, ambient air pollution related to traffic exhaust has become an important environmental issue in China. Because of their fast growth and development, children are more susceptible to ambient air pollution exposure. Many chemicals from traffic exhaust, such as carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and lead, have been reported to show adverse effects on neurobehavioral functions. Several studies in China have suggested that traffic exhaust might affect neurobehavioral functions of adults who have occupational traffic exhaust exposure. However, few data have been reported on the effects on neurobehavioral function in children. Objectives The objective of this study was to explore the association between traffic-related air pollution exposure and its effects on neurobehavioral function in children. Methods This field study was conducted in Quanzhou, China, where two primary schools were chosen based on traffic density and monitoring data of ambient air pollutants. School A was located in a clear area and school B in a polluted area. We monitored NO2 and particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 10 μm as indicators for traffic-related air pollution on the campuses and in classrooms for 2 consecutive days in May 2005. The children from second grade (8–9 years of age) and third grade (9–10 years of age) of the two schools (n = 928) participated in a questionnaire survey and manual-assisted neurobehavioral testing. We selected 282 third-grade children (school A, 136; school B, 146) to participate in computer-assisted neurobehavioral testing. We conducted the fieldwork between May and June 2005. We used data from 861 participants (school A, 431; school B, 430) with manual neurobehavioral testing and from all participants with computerized testing for data analyses. Results Media concentrations of NO2 in school A and school B campus were 7 μg/m3 and 36 μg/m3, respectively (p < 0.05). The ordinal logistic regression analyses showed that, after controlling the potential confounding factors, participants living in the polluted area showed poor performance on all testing; differences in results for six of nine tests (66.7%) achieved statistical significance: Visual Simple Reaction Time with preferred hand and with nonpreferred hand, Continuous Performance, Digit Symbol, Pursuit Aiming, and Sign Register. Conclusion We found a significant relationship between chronic low-level traffic-related air pollution exposure and neurobehavioral function in exposed children. More studies are needed to explore the effects of traffic exhaust on neurobehavioral function and development. PMID:20019914

  3. An Eight-Parameter Function for Simulating Model Rocket Engine Thrust Curves

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dooling, Thomas A.

    2007-01-01

    The toy model rocket is used extensively as an example of a realistic physical system. Teachers from grade school to the university level use them. Many teachers and students write computer programs to investigate rocket physics since the problem involves nonlinear functions related to air resistance and mass loss. This paper describes a nonlinear…

  4. Postoperative air leak grading is useful to predict prolonged air leak after pulmonary lobectomy.

    PubMed

    Oh, Sang Gi; Jung, Yochun; Jheon, Sanghoon; Choi, Yunhee; Yun, Ju Sik; Na, Kook Joo; Ahn, Byoung Hee

    2017-01-23

    Results of studies to predict prolonged air leak (PAL; air leak longer than 5 days) after pulmonary lobectomy have been inconsistent and are of limited use. We developed a new scale representing the amount of early postoperative air leak and determined its correlation with air leak duration and its potential as a predictor of PAL. We grade postoperative air leak using a 5-grade scale. All 779 lobectomies from January 2005 to December 2009 with available medical records were reviewed retrospectively. We devised six 'SUM' variables using air leak grades in the initial 72 h postoperatively. Excluding unrecorded cases and postoperative broncho-pleural fistulas, there were 720 lobectomies. PAL occurred in 135 cases (18.8%). Correlation analyses showed each SUM variable highly correlated with air leak duration, and the SUM 4to9 , which was the sum of six consecutive values of air leak grades for every 8 h record on postoperative days 2 and 3, was proved to be the most powerful predictor of PAL; PAL could be predicted with 75.7% and 77.7% positive and negative predictive value, respectively, when SUM 4to9  ≥ 16. When 4 predictors derived from multivariable logistic regression of perioperative variables were combined with SUM 4to9 , there was no significant increase in predictability compared with SUM 4to9 alone. This simple new method to predict PAL using SUM 4to9 showed that the amount of early postoperative air leak is the most powerful predictor of PAL, therefore, grading air leak after pulmonary lobectomy is a useful method to predict PAL.

  5. Aluminum anode for aluminum-air battery - Part I: Influence of aluminum purity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cho, Young-Joo; Park, In-Jun; Lee, Hyeok-Jae; Kim, Jung-Gu

    2015-03-01

    2N5 commercial grade aluminum (99.5% purity) leads to the lower aluminum-air battery performances than 4N high pure grade aluminum (99.99% purity) due to impurities itself and formed impurity complex layer which contained Fe, Si, Cu and others. The impurity complex layer of 2N5 grade Al declines the battery voltage on standby status. It also depletes discharge current and battery efficiency at 1.0 V which is general operating voltage of aluminum-air battery. However, the impurity complex layer of 2N5 grade Al is dissolved with decreasing discharge voltage to 0.8 V. This phenomenon leads to improvement of discharge current density and battery efficiency by reducing self-corrosion reaction. This study demonstrates the possibility of use of 2N5 grade Al which is cheaper than 4N grade Al as the anode for aluminum-air battery.

  6. Effects of successive air and nitrox dives on human vascular function.

    PubMed

    Marinovic, Jasna; Ljubkovic, Marko; Breskovic, Toni; Gunjaca, Grgo; Obad, Ante; Modun, Darko; Bilopavlovic, Nada; Tsikas, Dimitrios; Dujic, Zeljko

    2012-06-01

    SCUBA diving is regularly associated with asymptomatic changes in cardiac, pulmonary and vascular function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in vascular/endothelial function following SCUBA diving and to assess the potential difference between two breathing gases: air and nitrox 36 (36% oxygen and 64% nitrogen). Ten divers performed two 3-day diving series (no-decompression dive to 18 m with 47 min bottom time with air and nitrox, respectively), with 2 weeks pause in between. Arterial/endothelial function was assessed using SphygmoCor and flow-mediated dilation measurements, and concentration of nitrite before and after diving was determined in venous blood. Production of nitrogen bubbles post-dive was assessed by ultrasonic determination of venous gas bubble grade. Significantly higher bubbling was found after all air dives as compared to nitrox dives. Pulse wave velocity increased slightly (~6%), significantly after both air and nitrox diving, indicating an increase in arterial stiffness. However, augmentation index became significantly more negative after diving indicating smaller wave reflection. There was a trend for post-dive reduction of FMD after air dives; however, only nitrox diving significantly reduced FMD. No significant differences in blood nitrite before and after the dives were found. We found that nitrox diving affects systemic/vascular function more profoundly than air diving by reducing FMD response, most likely due to higher oxygen load. Both air and nitrox dives increased arterial stiffness, but decreased wave reflection suggesting a decrease in peripheral resistance due to exercise during diving. These effects of nitrox and air diving were not followed by changes in plasma nitrite.

  7. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY VERIFICATION REPORT: BAGHOUSE FILTRATION PRODUCTS, BWF AMERICA, INC. GRADE 700 MPS POLYESTER FELT FILTER SAMPLE

    EPA Science Inventory

    Baghouse filtration products (BFPs) were evaluated by the Air Pollution Control Technology (APCT) Verification Center. The performance factor verified was the mean outlet particle concentration for the filter fabric as a function of the size for particles equal to or smaller than...

  8. 42 CFR 84.141 - Breathing gas; minimum requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... SAFETY AND HEALTH RESEARCH AND RELATED ACTIVITIES APPROVAL OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES Supplied-Air...) Compressed, gaseous breathing air shall meet the applicable minimum grade requirements for Type I gaseous air set forth in the Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1, 1966 (Grade D or...

  9. 42 CFR 84.141 - Breathing gas; minimum requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... SAFETY AND HEALTH RESEARCH AND RELATED ACTIVITIES APPROVAL OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES Supplied-Air...) Compressed, gaseous breathing air shall meet the applicable minimum grade requirements for Type I gaseous air set forth in the Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1, 1966 (Grade D or...

  10. 42 CFR 84.141 - Breathing gas; minimum requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... SAFETY AND HEALTH RESEARCH AND RELATED ACTIVITIES APPROVAL OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES Supplied-Air...) Compressed, gaseous breathing air shall meet the applicable minimum grade requirements for Type I gaseous air set forth in the Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1, 1966 (Grade D or...

  11. 42 CFR 84.141 - Breathing gas; minimum requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... SAFETY AND HEALTH RESEARCH AND RELATED ACTIVITIES APPROVAL OF RESPIRATORY PROTECTIVE DEVICES Supplied-Air...) Compressed, gaseous breathing air shall meet the applicable minimum grade requirements for Type I gaseous air set forth in the Compressed Gas Association Commodity Specification for Air, G-7.1, 1966 (Grade D or...

  12. Evaluation of open-graded friction course mixture : technical assistance report.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2004-10-01

    Open-graded friction course (OGFC) is a porous, gap-graded, predominantly single size aggregate bituminous mixture that contains a high percentage of air voids. The high air void content and the open structure of this mix promote the effective draina...

  13. Sonographic evaluation of proximal gastric accommodation in patients with functional dyspepsia

    PubMed Central

    Fan, Xiu-Ping; Wang, Lin; Zhu, Qiang; Ma, Teng; Xia, Chun-Xia; Zhou, Ya-Jing

    2013-01-01

    AIM: To assess the value of ultrasonography (US) in evaluation of proximal gastric accommodation disorder in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD). METHODS: Between April 2011 and March 2012, 45 patients with FD and 27 healthy volunteers were enrolled in this study. Two-dimensional ultrasound (2DUS) and 3-dimensional ultrasound (3DUS) were performed sequentially to measure proximal gastric area (PGA), maximal proximal gastric diameter (MPGD), and proximal gastric volume (PGV). These values were measured separately in the two groups every other 5 min for a duration of 25 min after the beginning of ingestion of a test meal. Air pocket grading was done separately for images of 2DUS and blocks of 3DUS obtained at five scanning time points. RESULTS: Both PGA and PGV of patients were significantly smaller than healthy controls (P = 0.000 and 0.002, respectively). Comparing the two parameters between the groups at each time point, the differences were also statistically significant (P = 0.000-0.013), except at 10 min for the PGV (P = 0.077). However, no overall difference was found between the groups in the MPGD measurements (P = 0.114), though it was statistically significant at a 20-minute examination point (P = 0.026). A total of 360 sets or blocks of images were obtained for both 2DUS and 3DUS. For the images analyzed by 2DUS, none were excluded because of gastric gas, and 50 (13.9%) and 310 (86.1%) sets were determined as air pockets grades 1 and 2, respectively. For the images analyzed by 3DUS, 23 (6.4%) blocks were excluded from the measurement due to presence of a large fundus air pocket (grade 3); fifty (13.9%) and 287 (79.7%) blocks were also graded as 1 and 2, respectively. CONCLUSION: Measurement of both PGA and PGV by 2DUS and 3DUS could be useful for assessment of the proximal gastric accommodation. PMID:23922476

  14. Exposure to occupational air pollution and cardiac function in workers of the Esfahan Steel Industry, Iran.

    PubMed

    Golshahi, Jafar; Sadeghi, Masoumeh; Saqira, Mohammad; Zavar, Reihaneh; Sadeghifar, Mostafa; Roohafza, Hamidreza

    2016-06-01

    Air pollution is recognized as an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. We investigated association of exposure to occupational air pollution and cardiac function in the workers of the steel industry. Fifty male workers of the agglomeration and coke-making parts of the Esfahan Steel Company were randomly selected (n = 50). Workers in the administrative parts were studied as controls (n = 50). Those with known history of hypertension, dyslipidemia, or diabetes, and active smokers were not included. Data of age, body mass index, employment duration, blood pressure, fasting blood sugar, and lipid profile were gathered. Echocardiography was performed to evaluate cardiac function. Left ventricular ejection fraction was lower in workers of the agglomeration/coke-making parts than in controls (mean difference = 5 to 5.5 %, P < 0.001). Mild right ventricular dilatation and grade I pulmonary hypertension were present in three (12 %) workers of the coke-making part, but none of the controls (P = 0.010). According to these results, occupational air pollution exposure in workers of the steel industry is associated with left heart systolic dysfunction. Possible right heart insults due to air pollution exposure warrant further investigations.

  15. 40 CFR 86.523-78 - Oxides of nitrogen analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... analyzer to optimize performance. (2) Zero the oxides of nitrogen analyzer with zero grade air or zero... samples. Proceed as follows: (1) Adjust analyzer to optimize performance. (2) Zero the oxides of nitrogen analyzer with zero grade air or zero grade nitrogen. (3) Calibrate on each normally used operating range...

  16. 40 CFR 86.521-90 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... apparatus. The methanol is vaporized and swept into the sample bag with a known volume of zero grade air....521-90 Section 86.521-90 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... and basic operating adjustment using the appropriate FID fuel and zero-grade air. (2) Optimize on the...

  17. 40 CFR 86.1221-90 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... apparatus. The methanol is vaporized and swept into the sample bag with a known volume of zero grade air....1221-90 Section 86.1221-90 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... appropriate FID fuel and zero-grade air. (2) Optimize on the most common operating range. Introduce into the...

  18. 40 CFR 86.521-90 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... apparatus. The methanol is vaporized and swept into the sample bag with a known volume of zero grade air....521-90 Section 86.521-90 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... and basic operating adjustment using the appropriate FID fuel and zero-grade air. (2) Optimize on the...

  19. 40 CFR 86.121-90 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... sample bag with a known volume of zero grade air measured by a gas flow meter meeting the performance....121-90 Section 86.121-90 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... operating adjustment using the appropriate FID fuel and zero-grade air. (2) Optimize on the most common...

  20. 40 CFR 86.121-90 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... sample bag with a known volume of zero grade air measured by a gas flow meter meeting the performance....121-90 Section 86.121-90 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... operating adjustment using the appropriate FID fuel and zero-grade air. (2) Optimize on the most common...

  1. 40 CFR 86.1221-90 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... apparatus. The methanol is vaporized and swept into the sample bag with a known volume of zero grade air....1221-90 Section 86.1221-90 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... appropriate FID fuel and zero-grade air. (2) Optimize on the most common operating range. Introduce into the...

  2. Pulmonary rehabilitation improves exercise capacity and dyspnea in air pollution-related respiratory disease.

    PubMed

    Miyamoto, Naomi; Senjyu, Hideaki; Tanaka, Takako; Asai, Masaharu; Yanagita, Yorihide; Yano, Yudai; Nishinakagawa, Tsuyoshi; Kotaki, Kenji; Kitagawa, Chika; Rikitomi, Naoto; Kozu, Ryo; Honda, Sumihisa

    2014-01-01

    Air pollution in Japan caused respiratory disease, such as chronic bronchitis and asthma, in many individuals in the 1960s. Although air pollution has decreased, many victims of air pollution-related respiratory disease are limited in their activities of daily living because of respiratory symptoms. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of pulmonary rehabilitation in victims of air pollution-related chronic bronchitis or asthma. Subjects were enrolled in a 12-week (2-week inpatient followed by 10-week outpatient) pulmonary rehabilitation program. The program comprised conditioning, strength training, endurance training, and patient education. We assessed the Modified Medical Research Council (MMRC) dyspnea grade, pulmonary function, peripheral muscle force, incremental shuttle walk distance (ISWD), and physical activity at baseline and immediately after the program. Twenty-nine subjects (mean age 74.2 ± 10.1 years, 11 males) completed the program, including 11 subjects with COPD and 18 subjects with asthma. Following rehabilitation, the participants (n = 29) showed significant improvements in MMRC dyspnea grade, vital capacity % predicted, quadriceps force and ISWD (all P < 0.05). Sub-group analyses revealed that all these variables were significantly improved in subjects with asthma. In contrast, subjects with COPD showed significant improvements only in quadriceps force and ISWD (both P < 0.05). Thus, pulmonary rehabilitation is an effective method of improving exercise capacity and dyspnea in officially acknowledged victims of air pollution-related asthma. In conclusion, we recommend that patients with chronic bronchitis or asthma, resulting from exposure to air pollution, are referred for pulmonary rehabilitation.

  3. Federal Aviation Administration Aviation Education Teacher's Guide, [Grades] 4-6.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Federal Aviation Administration (DOT), Washington, DC.

    This guide is one in a series of four resource guides specifically designed for those interested in aviation education. Activities and lessons that can be used in a variety of content areas and grade levels are featured. Grades 4-6 are the focus of this guide, which is organized under the broad topics of properties of air, lighter than air flight,…

  4. Sarcoidosis: correlation of pulmonary parenchymal pattern at CT with results of pulmonary function tests

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

    Bergin, C.J.; Bell, D.Y.; Coblentz, C.L.

    1989-06-01

    The appearances of the lungs on radiographs and computed tomographic (CT) scans were correlated with degree of uptake on gallium scans and results of pulmonary function tests (PFTs) in 27 patients with sarcoidosis. CT scans were evaluated both qualitatively and quantitatively. Patients were divided into five categories on the basis of the pattern of abnormality at CT: 1 = normal (n = 4); 2 = segmental air-space disease (n = 4); 3 = spherical (alveolar) masslike opacities (n = 4); 4 = multiple, discrete, small nodules (n = 6); and 5 = distortion of parenchymal structures (fibrotic end-stage sarcoidosis) (nmore » = 9). The percentage of the volume judged to be abnormal (CT grade) was correlated with PFT results for each CT and radiographic category. CT grades were also correlated with gallium scanning results and percentage of lymphocytes recovered from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Patients in CT categories 1 and 2 had normal lung function, those in category 3 had mild functional impairment, and those in categories 4 and 5 showed moderate to severe dysfunction. The overall CT grade correlated well with PFT results expressed as a percentage of the predicted value. In five patients, CT scans showed extensive parenchymal disease not seen on radiographs. CT grades did not correlate with the results of gallium scanning or BAL lymphocytes. The authors conclude that patterns of parenchymal sarcoidosis seen at CT correlate with the PFT results and can be used to indicate respiratory impairment.« less

  5. Environmental Resource Guide: Air Quality. A Series of Classroom Activities for Grades 6-8.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Reed, Elizabeth W., Ed.

    Many different types of air quality can be studied in middle school science classes using available supplies. This grade 6-8 activity guide was developed to provide opportunities for children to learn about the issue of air quality. Sixteen hands-on activities integrate the issue into middle school science classes. A chart categorizes the…

  6. Tobacco Control Laws and Pediatric Asthma.

    PubMed

    Hatoun, Jonathan; Davis-Plourde, Kendra; Penti, Brian; Cabral, Howard; Kazis, Lewis

    2018-01-01

    Exposure to environmental tobacco smoke increases pediatric asthma severity. Strict, state-level tobacco control reduces smoking. The Child Asthma Call-Back Survey (Child ACBS) is a nationally representative survey of the guardians of children with asthma. The American Lung Association's annual State of Tobacco Control report grades tobacco control laws in each state including a tax grade (cigarette excise tax relative to the national mean), and a smoke-free air grade (number of locations where smoking is prohibited). We joined Child ACBS data from 2006 to 2010 with corresponding state and year tobacco grades. In the primary analysis, we investigated the effect of state tax grades on a child's asthma severity by using a logistic regression model adjusting for year. A secondary analysis assessed the impact of smoke-free air grades on in-home smoking. Our analysis included 12 860 Child ACBS interviews from 35 states over 5 years, representing over 24 million individuals. We merged 112 unique State of Tobacco Control grades with patient data by state and year. A higher tax grade was associated with reduced severity (adjusted odds ratio = 1.40; P = .007, 95% confidence interval: 1.10-1.80). A better smoke-free air grade was not associated with decreased in-home smoking after adjusting for confounding by income and type of residence. A stronger tobacco tax is associated with reduced asthma severity. Further study is needed to determine the effect of smoke-free air laws on in-home environmental. This work supports ongoing efforts to strengthen tobacco control through federal and state regulations. Copyright © 2018 by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

  7. The Effect of Conceptual Change Approach to Eliminate 9th Grade High School Students' Misconceptions about Air Pressure

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Akbas, Yavuz; Gencturk, Ebru

    2011-01-01

    The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of teaching based on conceptual change overcome misconceptions of 9th grade high school students about the subject of air pressure. The sampling of the study was formed with two classes of 9th grade students from a general high school in the city-center of Trabzon. A quasi-experimental…

  8. 40 CFR 89.319 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... start-up and basic operating adjustment using the appropriate fuel (see § 89.312(e)) and zero-grade air... flow. Heated Flame Ionization Detectors (HFIDs) must be at their specified operating temperature. One.... (1) Adjust analyzer to optimize performance. (2) Zero the hydrocarbon analyzer with zero-grade air...

  9. The Necessity of Company-Grade Air Defense Artillery Officers in the Air Defense and Airspace Management Cells Within the Brigade Combat Team

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-06-13

    the role of ADAM Cell OIC. Utilizing the Army design methodology, the study compares the current training and performance of Air Defense officers to...junior company-grade officers to fulfill the role of ADAM Cell OIC. Utilizing the Army design methodology, the study compares the current training...Page Figure 1. Army design methodology ...............................................................................34 Figure 2. The cross-walk

  10. Dedication of emergency diesel generators` control air subsystem

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

    Harrington, M.; Myers, G.; Palumbo, M.

    1994-12-31

    In the spring of 1993, the need to upgrade Seabrook Station`s emergency diesel generators` (EDGs`) control air system from nonsafety related to safety related was identified. This need was identified as a result of questions raised by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which was conducting an Electrical Distribution Safety Functional Inspection at Seabrook at that time. The specific reason for the reassignment of safety classification was recognition that failure of the control air supply to the EDGs` jacket cooling water temperature control valves could cause overcooling of the EDGs, which potentially could result in EDG failure during long-term operation. Thismore » paper addresses how the installed control air system was upgraded to safety related using Seabrook`s Commercial Grade Dedication (CGD) Program and how, by using the dedication skills obtained over the past few years, it was done at minimal cost.« less

  11. Improving urban air quality in China: Beijing case study

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

    Jiming Hao; Litao Wang

    2005-09-01

    China is undergoing rapid urbanization because of unprecedented economic growth. As a result, many cities suffer from air pollution. Two-thirds of China's cities have not attained the ambient air quality standards applicable to urban residential areas (Grade II). Particulate matter (PM), rather than sulfur dioxide (SO{sub 2}), is the major pollutant reflecting the shift from coal burning to mixed source pollution. In 2002, 63.2 and 22.4% of the monitored cities have PM and SO{sub 2} concentrations exceeding the Grade II standard, respectively. Nitrogen oxides (NOx) concentration kept a relatively stable level near the Grade II standard in the last decademore » and had an increasing potential in recent years because of the rapid motorization. In general, the air pollutants emission did not increase as quickly as the economic growth and energy consumption, and air quality in Chinese cities has improved to some extent. Beijing, a typical representative of rapidly developing cities, is an example to illustrate the possible options for urban air pollution control. Beijing's case provides hope that the challenges associated with improving air quality can be met during a period of explosive development and motorization. 21 refs., 19 figs., 6 tabs.« less

  12. Low-grade systemic inflammation: a partial mediator of the relationship between diabetes and lung function.

    PubMed

    Giovannelli, Jonathan; Trouiller, Philippe; Hulo, Sébastien; Chérot-Kornobis, Natalie; Ciuchete, Alina; Edmé, Jean-Louis; Matran, Régis; Amouyel, Philippe; Meirhaeghe, Aline; Dauchet, Luc

    2018-01-01

    An association has been consistently found between diabetes mellitus and decreased lung function. We evaluated to what extent low-grade inflammation (as measured by the level of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP]) could explain this relationship. A sample of 1878 middle-aged adults from the cross-sectional Enquête Littoral Souffle Air Biologie Environnement survey without self-reported pulmonary and atherosclerosis disease was included. A mediation analysis was performed to assess and quantify the hs-CRP level as a mediator of the relationship between diabetes and lung function. Diabetes was associated with higher hs-CRP level (+22.9%, 95% confidence interval = [5.1, 43.6]). The hs-CRP (>4 vs. ≤1 mg/L) was associated with lower percentage predicted values for the forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (-4% [-6.1, -1.9]) and forced vital capacity (FVC) (-4.4% [-6.5, -2.3]). Diabetes was associated with FEV1 (-3.5% [-5.8, -1.3]) and FVC (-3.6% [-5.9, -1.3]). The proportion of the effect that is mediated by hs-CRP was 12% [2.4, 37] and 13% [3.7, 39.4] for FEV1 and FVC, respectively. Our results suggest that low-grade systemic inflammation could only explain a small part of the relationship between diabetes and lung function. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Monitoring minimization of grade B environments based on risk assessment using three-dimensional airflow measurements and computer simulation.

    PubMed

    Katayama, Hirohito; Higo, Takashi; Tokunaga, Yuji; Katoh, Shigeo; Hiyama, Yukio; Morikawa, Kaoru

    2008-01-01

    A practical, risk-based monitoring approach using the combined data collected from actual experiments and computer simulations was developed for the qualification of an EU GMP Annex 1 Grade B, ISO Class 7 area. This approach can locate and minimize the representative number of sampling points used for microbial contamination risk assessment. We conducted a case study on an aseptic clean room, newly constructed and specifically designed for the use of a restricted access barrier system (RABS). Hotspots were located using three-dimensional airflow analysis based on a previously published empirical measurement method, the three-dimensional airflow analysis. Local mean age of air (LMAA) values were calculated based on computer simulations. Comparable results were found using actual measurements and simulations, demonstrating the potential usefulness of such tools in estimating contamination risks based on the airflow characteristics of a clean room. Intensive microbial monitoring and particle monitoring at the Grade B environmental qualification stage, as well as three-dimensional airflow analysis, were also conducted to reveal contamination hotspots. We found representative hotspots were located at perforated panels covering the air exhausts where the major piston airflows collect in the Grade B room, as well as at any locations within the room that were identified as having stagnant air. However, we also found that the floor surface air around the exit airway of the RABS EU GMP Annex 1 Grade A, ISO Class 5 area was always remarkably clean, possibly due to the immediate sweep of the piston airflow, which prevents dispersed human microbes from falling in a Stokes-type manner on settling plates placed on the floor around the Grade A exit airway. In addition, this airflow is expected to be clean with a significantly low LMAA. Based on these observed results, we propose a simplified daily monitoring program to monitor microbial contamination in Grade B environments. To locate hotspots we propose using a combination of computer simulation, actual airflow measurements, and intensive environmental monitoring at the qualification stage. Thereafter, instead of particle or microbial air monitoring, we recommend the use of microbial surface monitoring at the main air exhaust. These measures would be sufficient to assure the efficiency of the monitoring program, as well as to minimize the number of surface sampling points used in environments surrounding a RABS.

  14. 7 CFR 29.3559 - Type 36.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... Air-cured, or Dark Air-cured of the Henderson and Owensboro Districts, and produced principally in the...

  15. 7 CFR 29.3559 - Type 36.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... Air-cured, or Dark Air-cured of the Henderson and Owensboro Districts, and produced principally in the...

  16. 7 CFR 29.3559 - Type 36.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... Air-cured, or Dark Air-cured of the Henderson and Owensboro Districts, and produced principally in the...

  17. 7 CFR 29.3559 - Type 36.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... Air-cured, or Dark Air-cured of the Henderson and Owensboro Districts, and produced principally in the...

  18. 7 CFR 29.3559 - Type 36.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... Air-cured, or Dark Air-cured of the Henderson and Owensboro Districts, and produced principally in the...

  19. Residential exposure to air toxics is linked to lower grade point averages among school children in El Paso, Texas, USA

    PubMed Central

    Clark-Reyna, Stephanie E.; Grineski, Sara E.; Collins, Timothy W.

    2015-01-01

    Children in low-income neighborhoods tend to be disproportionately exposed to environmental toxicants. This is cause for concern because exposure to environmental toxicants negatively affect health, which can impair academic success. To date, it is unknown if associations between air toxics and academic performance found in previous school-level studies persist when studying individual children. In pairing the National Air Toxics Assessment (NATA) risk estimates for respiratory and diesel particulate matter risk disaggregated by source, with individual-level data collected through a mail survey, this paper examines the effects of exposure to residential environmental toxics on academic performance for individual children for the first time and adjusts for school-level effects using generalized estimating equations. We find that higher levels of residential air toxics, especially those from non-road mobile sources, are statistically significantly associated with lower grade point averages among fourth and fifth grade school children in El Paso (Texas, USA). PMID:27034529

  20. Comparison of NBG-18, NBG-17, IG-110 and IG-11 oxidation kinetics in air

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Jo Jo; Ghosh, Tushar K.; Loyalka, Sudarshan K.

    2018-03-01

    The oxidation rates of several nuclear-grade graphites, NBG-18, NBG-17, IG-110 and IG-11, were measured in air using thermogravimetry. Kinetic parameters and oxidation behavior for each grade were compared by coke type, filler grain size and microstructure. The thickness of the oxidized layer for each grade was determined by layer peeling and direct density measurements. The results for NBG-17 and IG-11 were compared with those available in the literature and our recently reported results for NBG-18 and IG-110 oxidation in air. The finer-grained graphites IG-110 and IG-11 were more oxidized than medium-grained NBG-18 and NBG-17 because of deeper oxidant penetration, higher porosity and higher probability of available active sites. Variation in experimental conditions also had a marked effect on the reported kinetic parameters by several studies. Kinetic parameters such as activation energy and transition temperature were sensitive to air flow rates as well as sample size and geometry.

  1. [Injuries to car passengers protected by air bags].

    PubMed

    Sefrin, P; Kuhnigk, H; Koburg, R

    2004-11-01

    The air bag, like the seatbelt, is a further development of the inside protection of motorcar passengers. However, the airbag has also been made responsible for severe internal injuries. In a retrospective case control study, 394 accidents in which the air bag was released were analysed. At least medium severe injuries (Maximum Abbreviated Injury Scale: MAIS > or = 2) occurred in 69 cases. Three different patterns of injury were distinguished depending on the level of difficulty of diagnosis by the emergency physician. Damage to the vehicles was scored in five intensities or damage grades. Thoracic injury was most frequently diagnosed in the patients (in 61.5 % of cases), followed by injuries to the lower (50.8 %) and upper extremities (47.7 %). Single injuries with a grade of severity of 2 (MAIS) predominated (59.7 %). In most of the cases the injury was easy to diagnose (64.6 %) because of external signs, in 24.6 % internal injuries were assumed and in only 10.8 % were there no sings of damage to body cavities. Most frequent were occult injuries in the thoracic region (100 %) and in the abdomen (74.4 %). However, occult injuries did not always conform to the grade of deformation to the vehicle, since in 66.7 % the grade of damage was 3. This was not true for the remaining types of injury because external injuries increased with the grade of damage to the vehicle. After the release of the air bag, occult injuries of the body cavities have to be expected, even if there are no signs of external injury. Women under 35 years of age are particularly endangered. There exists no minimum velocity for the occurrence of injuries to the body cavities because harm can simply be a result of the release of the air bag.

  2. The Perils of "Progress."

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schultz, Fred C.

    2001-01-01

    Reveals how seeking simplicity can help bring indoor air quality (IAQ) solutions to grade schools by balancing IAQ needs, cost, and energy. Issues involving ventilation rate requirements are reexamined, as are compliance with outside-air requirements, dealing with variable-air-volume air distribution regulators, and retrofitting issues involving…

  3. 3. "LAUNCH SILOS; AREA PAVING AND GRADING PLAN." Specifications No. ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    3. "LAUNCH SILOS; AREA PAVING AND GRADING PLAN." Specifications No. ENG-04-353-59-73; Drawing No. 5841C-11; D.O. SERIES AW-1525/17; Stamped: RECORD DRAWING AS CONSTRUCTED. Below stamp: Contract No. 6601, Date 18 Sep 59. - Edwards Air Force Base, Air Force Rocket Propulsion Laboratory, Missile Silo Type, Test Area 1-100, northeast end of Test Area 1-100 Road, Boron, Kern County, CA

  4. 7 CFR 29.3561 - Type 95.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3561 Type 95. That type of air-cured tobacco commonly known as Foreign-grown Dark Air...

  5. 7 CFR 29.3561 - Type 95.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3561 Type 95. That type of air-cured tobacco commonly known as Foreign-grown Dark Air...

  6. 7 CFR 29.3561 - Type 95.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3561 Type 95. That type of air-cured tobacco commonly known as Foreign-grown Dark Air...

  7. 7 CFR 29.3561 - Type 95.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3561 Type 95. That type of air-cured tobacco commonly known as Foreign-grown Dark Air...

  8. 7 CFR 29.3561 - Type 95.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3561 Type 95. That type of air-cured tobacco commonly known as Foreign-grown Dark Air...

  9. Prolonged air leak following lobectomy can be predicted in lung cancer patients.

    PubMed

    Okada, Satoru; Shimada, Junichi; Kato, Daishiro; Tsunezuka, Hiroaki; Inoue, Masayoshi

    2017-08-01

    The purpose of this study was to identify the factors associated with prolonged air leak (PAL) following pulmonary lobectomy for lung cancer. The data of 146 patients who underwent pulmonary lobectomy for lung cancer between August 2010 and July 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Air leaks were assessed daily by a visual evaluation and were categorized as follows: forced expiratory only (Grade 1), expiratory only (Grade 2), or continuous (Grade 3). Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the predictors of PAL (>5 days). PAL occurred in 23 patients (16%). An air leak at rest (Grade ≥ 2) was detected on postoperative day (POD) 1 in 48% of the patients with PAL and 7% of the patients without PAL. A univariate analysis demonstrated that PAL was significantly associated with male sex, a smoking history of ≥ 40 pack years, a serum albumin level of ≤4.0 mg/dL, and an air leak on POD1 (Grade ≥ 2). A multivariate analysis demonstrated that a serum albumin level of ≤4.0 mg/dL (p = 0.027) and an air leak on POD1 (p = 0.006) were independent predictors of PAL. PAL occurred in 75% of the patients with these two risk factors. The preoperative serum albumin level and the presence of a visually evaluated air leak on POD1 may be useful indicators for the perioperative management of air leaks.

  10. 7 CFR 29.3502 - Air-cured.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Air-cured. 29.3502 Section 29.3502 Agriculture... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3502 Air-cured. Tobacco cured under natural atmospheric conditions without the use of...

  11. 7 CFR 29.3502 - Air-cured.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Air-cured. 29.3502 Section 29.3502 Agriculture... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3502 Air-cured. Tobacco cured under natural atmospheric conditions without the use of...

  12. 7 CFR 29.3503 - Air-dried.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Air-dried. 29.3503 Section 29.3503 Agriculture... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3503 Air-dried. The condition of unfermented tobacco as customarily prepared for storage...

  13. 7 CFR 29.3503 - Air-dried.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Air-dried. 29.3503 Section 29.3503 Agriculture... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3503 Air-dried. The condition of unfermented tobacco as customarily prepared for storage...

  14. 7 CFR 29.3503 - Air-dried.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Air-dried. 29.3503 Section 29.3503 Agriculture... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3503 Air-dried. The condition of unfermented tobacco as customarily prepared for storage...

  15. 7 CFR 29.3502 - Air-cured.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Air-cured. 29.3502 Section 29.3502 Agriculture... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3502 Air-cured. Tobacco cured under natural atmospheric conditions without the use of...

  16. 7 CFR 29.3502 - Air-cured.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Air-cured. 29.3502 Section 29.3502 Agriculture... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3502 Air-cured. Tobacco cured under natural atmospheric conditions without the use of...

  17. 7 CFR 29.3503 - Air-dried.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Air-dried. 29.3503 Section 29.3503 Agriculture... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3503 Air-dried. The condition of unfermented tobacco as customarily prepared for storage...

  18. 7 CFR 29.3503 - Air-dried.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Air-dried. 29.3503 Section 29.3503 Agriculture... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3503 Air-dried. The condition of unfermented tobacco as customarily prepared for storage...

  19. 7 CFR 29.3502 - Air-cured.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Air-cured. 29.3502 Section 29.3502 Agriculture... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3502 Air-cured. Tobacco cured under natural atmospheric conditions without the use of...

  20. Airmail to Airlines. A Teacher's Guide. Grades 3-5.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Engelke, Lynn-Steven

    This guide helps teachers and students gain knowledge about the "Air Transportation" gallery at the National Air and Space Museum (Washington, DC). The guide is divided into six sections: (1) "The 'Air Transportation' Gallery"; (2) "How to Use This Guide"; (3) "Activity 1: Take Off: An Air Travel Matching…

  1. The temporal and spatial distribution characteristics of air pollution index and meteorological elements in Beijing, Tianjin and Shijiazhuang, China.

    PubMed

    Huading, Shi; Critto, Andrea; Torresan, Silvia; Qingxian, Gao

    2018-06-13

    With the rapid economic development and the continuous population growth, several important cities in China suffer serious air pollution, especially in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei economic developing area. Based on the daily air pollution index (API) and surface meteorological elements in Beijing, Tianjin and Shijiazhuang from 2001 to 2010, the relationships between API and meteorological elements were analyzed. The statistical analysis focused on the relationships at seasonal and monthly average scales, on different air pollution grades and air pollution processes. The results revealed that the air pollution conditions in the three areas gradually improved from 2001 to 2010, especially during summer; and the worst conditions in air quality were recorded in Beijing in spring due to the influences of dust, while in Tianjin and Shijiazhuang in winter due to household heating. Meteorological elements exhibited different influences on air pollution, showing similar relationships between API in monthly averages and four meteorological elements (i.e., the average, maximum and minimum temperatures, maximum air pressure, vapor pressure, and maximum wind speed); while the relationships on a seasonal average scale demonstrated significant differences. Compared with seasonal and monthly average scales of API, the relation coefficients based on different air pollution grades were significatively lower; while the relationship between API and meteorological elements based on air pollution process reduced the smoothing effect due to the average processing of seasonal and monthly API and improved the accuracy of the results based on different air pollution grades. Finally, statistical analysis of the distribution of pollution days in different wind directions indicated the directions of extreme and maximum wind speeds that mainly influence air pollution; representing a valuable information that could support the definition of air pollution control strategies through the identification of the regions (and the located emission sources) where to focus the implementation of emission reduction actions. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

  2. Clean Air for Anchorage and Fairbanks: Curriculum for Grades 1-6.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    South East Regional Resource Center, Juneau, AK.

    Through the 10 lessons in this guide, elementary school students can be introduced to the characteristics of air, methods of air pollution control, air movement, and the health effects of polluted air. A directory of field trip sites and a list of teacher resources is included. Contained in each lesson plan are a materials list, general…

  3. Determination of technical grade isocyanates used in the production of polyurethane plastics.

    PubMed

    Marand, Asa; Dahlin, Jakob; Karlsson, Daniel; Skarping, Gunnar; Dalene, Marianne

    2004-07-01

    A method for determination of technical grade isocyanates used in the production of polyurethane (PUR) is presented. The isocyanates in technical grade products were characterised as di-n-butylamine (DBA) derivatives using LC-MS and LC-chemiluminescent nitrogen detection (CLND) and the total isocyanate content was compared to a titration assay. For collection of isocyanates in air, an impinger-filter sampling technique with DBA as derivatisation reagent was used. Characterised DBA and nonadeuterium labelled DBA derivatives of isocyanates in technical products were used as calibration standards and internal standards, respectively, in the analysis of air samples. Three workplaces were studied where PUR products were produced either by spraying or by moulding. In both technical products and in air samples, a number of monomeric, oligomeric and prepolymeric isocyanates of e.g. methylenebisphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) were characterised. Several of these have not previously been described in workplace atmospheres. In the technical isocyanate products, between 69 and 102% of the NCO content determined by titration was accounted for by LC-CLND. Quantifications of a wide range of isocyanates in air samples were performed with correlation coefficients in the range 0.988-0.999 (n= 8) and the instrumental detection limits were 0.7-25 pg. At the two workplaces where MDI- and HDI isocyanurate-based products were sprayed, the isocyanate composition in the air reflected the composition in the technical product. At the workplace where a MDI-based product was used in a moulding process, only the monomeric isocyanates were found in the air. The advantage of using characterised technical grade isocyanates as analytical standards was clearly demonstrated and the possibility of using index compounds when monitoring isocyanate exposure is discussed.

  4. Grade Inflation: Reality or Myth? Student Preparation Level vs. Grades at Brigham Young University, 1975-1994. AIR 1997 Annual Forum Paper.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Olsen, Danny R.

    This study was designed to investigate the extent to which grade inflation has existed at Brigham Young University (BYU) after accounting for increased preparation levels of entering students over time. Analyses were conducted for the university at large and individual colleges. The study first developed a model to forecast student grade point…

  5. Comparison of NBG-18, NBG-17, IG-110 and IG-11 oxidation kinetics in air

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

    Lee, Jo Jo; Ghosh, Tushar K.; Loyalka, Sudarshan K.

    In this paper, the oxidation rates of several nuclear-grade graphites, NBG-18, NBG-17, IG-110 and IG-11, were measured in air using thermogravimetry. Kinetic parameters and oxidation behavior for each grade were compared by coke type, filler grain size and microstructure. The thickness of the oxidized layer for each grade was determined by layer peeling and direct density measurements. The results for NBG-17 and IG-11 were compared with those available in the literature and our recently reported results for NBG-18 and IG-110 oxidation in air. The finer-grained graphites IG-110 and IG-11 were more oxidized than medium-grained NBG-18 and NBG-17 because of deepermore » oxidant penetration, higher porosity and higher probability of available active sites. Variation in experimental conditions also had a marked effect on the reported kinetic parameters by several studies. Finally, kinetic parameters such as activation energy and transition temperature were sensitive to air flow rates as well as sample size and geometry.« less

  6. Comparison of NBG-18, NBG-17, IG-110 and IG-11 oxidation kinetics in air

    DOE PAGES

    Lee, Jo Jo; Ghosh, Tushar K.; Loyalka, Sudarshan K.

    2017-12-14

    In this paper, the oxidation rates of several nuclear-grade graphites, NBG-18, NBG-17, IG-110 and IG-11, were measured in air using thermogravimetry. Kinetic parameters and oxidation behavior for each grade were compared by coke type, filler grain size and microstructure. The thickness of the oxidized layer for each grade was determined by layer peeling and direct density measurements. The results for NBG-17 and IG-11 were compared with those available in the literature and our recently reported results for NBG-18 and IG-110 oxidation in air. The finer-grained graphites IG-110 and IG-11 were more oxidized than medium-grained NBG-18 and NBG-17 because of deepermore » oxidant penetration, higher porosity and higher probability of available active sites. Variation in experimental conditions also had a marked effect on the reported kinetic parameters by several studies. Finally, kinetic parameters such as activation energy and transition temperature were sensitive to air flow rates as well as sample size and geometry.« less

  7. Handle With Care: An Air Pollution Module for Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth Grade Teachers of Health Education, Science, and Other Subject Areas.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Guerin, Dolores

    Presented is a module on air pollution for sixth through eighth graders. Six subsections address the many aspects of air and air pollution: (1) sensory awareness, (2) the nature of the atmosphere, (3) air pollution's effects on health and property, (4) values conflicts, (5) air quality control, and (6) individual responsibility. Learning…

  8. 40 CFR 86.524-78 - Carbon dioxide analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... operation. Adjust the analyzer to optimize performance. (2) Zero the carbon dioxide analyzer with either zero grade air or zero grade nitrogen. (3) Calibrate on each normally used operating range with carbon...

  9. 40 CFR 86.524-78 - Carbon dioxide analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... operation. Adjust the analyzer to optimize performance. (2) Zero the carbon dioxide analyzer with either zero grade air or zero grade nitrogen. (3) Calibrate on each normally used operating range with carbon...

  10. 40 CFR 86.524-78 - Carbon dioxide analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... operation. Adjust the analyzer to optimize performance. (2) Zero the carbon dioxide analyzer with either zero grade air or zero grade nitrogen. (3) Calibrate on each normally used operating range with carbon...

  11. Thermoelectric as recovery and harvesting of waste heat from portable generator

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mustafa, S. N.; Kamarrudin, N. S.; Hashim, M. S. M.; Bakar, S. A.; Razlan, Z. M.; Harun, A.; Ibrahim, I.; Faizi, M. K.; Saad, M. A. M.; Zunaidi, I.; Wan, W. K.; Desa, H.

    2017-10-01

    Generation of waste heat was ineluctable especially during energy producing process. Waste heat falls into low temperature grade make it complicated to utilize. Thermoelectric generator (TEG) offers opportunity to harvest any temperature grade heat into useful electricity. This project is covered about recovery and utilizing waste heat from portable electric generator by using a TEG which placed at exhaust surface. Temperature difference at both surfaces of TEG was enhanced with supplying cold air from a wind blower. It is found that, even at low air speed, the TEG was successfully produced electricity with aid from DC-DC booster. Results shows possibility to harvest low temperature grade heat and still exist areas for continual improvement.

  12. Three Cheers for a New Attitude.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Miller, L. Diane; Labrano, Maureen B.

    1992-01-01

    Inservice workshop trained fourth- and fifth-grade science specialists and their students organized science demonstrations presented by students from each grade level. Describes demonstrations involving liquid bubbles, magnets, measurement, sound, aerodynamics, environmental protection, and air pollution. (MDH)

  13. Gene expression changes in rat brain after short and long exposures to particulate matter in Los Angeles basin air: Comparison with human brain tumors.

    PubMed

    Ljubimova, Julia Y; Kleinman, Michael T; Karabalin, Natalya M; Inoue, Satoshi; Konda, Bindu; Gangalum, Pallavi; Markman, Janet L; Ljubimov, Alexander V; Black, Keith L

    2013-11-01

    Air pollution negatively impacts pulmonary, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems. Although its influence on brain cancer is unclear, toxic pollutants can cause blood-brain barrier disruption, enabling them to reach the brain and cause alterations leading to tumor development. By gene microarray analysis validated by quantitative RT-PCR and immunostaining we examined whether rat (n=104) inhalation exposure to air pollution particulate matter (PM) resulted in brain molecular changes similar to those associated with human brain tumors. Global brain gene expression was analyzed after exposure to PM (coarse, 2.5-10μm; fine, <2.5μm; or ultrafine, <0.15μm) and purified air for different times, short (0.5, 1, and 3 months) and chronic (10 months), for 5h per day, four days per week. Expression of select gene products was also studied in human brain (n=7) and in tumors (n=83). Arc/Arg3.1 and Rac1 genes, and their protein products were selected for further examination. Arc was elevated upon two-week to three-month exposure to coarse PM and declined after 10-month exposure. Rac1 was significantly elevated upon 10-month coarse PM exposure. On human brain tumor sections, Arc was expressed in benign meningiomas and low-grade gliomas but was much lower in high-grade tumors. Conversely, Rac1 was elevated in high-grade vs. low-grade gliomas. Arc is thus associated with early brain changes and low-grade tumors, whereas Rac1 is associated with long-term PM exposure and highly aggressive tumors. In summary, exposure to air PM leads to distinct changes in rodent brain gene expression similar to those observed in human brain tumors. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

  14. 7 CFR 30.13 - Air-cure.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Air-cure. 30.13 Section 30.13 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... AND STANDARDS Classification of Leaf Tobacco Covering Classes, Types and Groups of Grades § 30.13 Air...

  15. 7 CFR 30.13 - Air-cure.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Air-cure. 30.13 Section 30.13 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... AND STANDARDS Classification of Leaf Tobacco Covering Classes, Types and Groups of Grades § 30.13 Air...

  16. 7 CFR 30.13 - Air-cure.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Air-cure. 30.13 Section 30.13 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... AND STANDARDS Classification of Leaf Tobacco Covering Classes, Types and Groups of Grades § 30.13 Air...

  17. 7 CFR 30.13 - Air-cure.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Air-cure. 30.13 Section 30.13 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... AND STANDARDS Classification of Leaf Tobacco Covering Classes, Types and Groups of Grades § 30.13 Air...

  18. 7 CFR 30.13 - Air-cure.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Air-cure. 30.13 Section 30.13 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... AND STANDARDS Classification of Leaf Tobacco Covering Classes, Types and Groups of Grades § 30.13 Air...

  19. 40 CFR 86.1321-94 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ..., known methane in air concentrations traceable to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST....1321-94 Section 86.1321-94 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... basic operating adjustment using the appropriate fuel (see § 86.1314) and zero-grade air. (2) Optimize...

  20. 40 CFR 86.1321-94 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ..., known methane in air concentrations traceable to National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST....1321-94 Section 86.1321-94 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR... basic operating adjustment using the appropriate fuel (see § 86.1314) and zero-grade air. (2) Optimize...

  1. 40 CFR 421.222 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... technical grade molybdenum plus vanadium plus pure grade molybdenum produced Arsenic 40.778 18.145 Chromium... vanadium plus pure grade molybdenum produced Arsenic 121.720 54.162 Chromium 25.625 10.483 Lead 24.460 11... times. (c) Vanadium decomposition wet air pollution control. BPT Limitations for the Secondary...

  2. Eco-Kids: Experiment with Air on Spaceship Earth. [Project ECOLogy ELE Pak, Bell Pak].

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bell, Loretta

    This is one of a series of units for environmental education developed by the Highline Public Schools. The unit, designed for intermediate grades in the elementary schools, is concerned with the study of air, air pollution, effects of air pollution, and ways of improving the quality of the air. Six lessons are included in the unit; most of the…

  3. 7 CFR 29.3534 - No grade.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... watered, contains foreign matter, or has an odor foreign to the type. (See Rule 24, § 29.3625.) [30 FR...

  4. 7 CFR 29.3534 - No grade.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... watered, contains foreign matter, or has an odor foreign to the type. (See Rule 24, § 29.3625.) [30 FR...

  5. 7 CFR 29.3534 - No grade.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... watered, contains foreign matter, or has an odor foreign to the type. (See Rule 24, § 29.3625.) [30 FR...

  6. 7 CFR 29.3534 - No grade.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... watered, contains foreign matter, or has an odor foreign to the type. (See Rule 24, § 29.3625.) [30 FR...

  7. 7 CFR 29.3534 - No grade.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... watered, contains foreign matter, or has an odor foreign to the type. (See Rule 24, § 29.3625.) [30 FR...

  8. 7 CFR 29.2252 - Air-dried.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Air-dried. 29.2252 Section 29.2252 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Virginia Fire-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Type 21) § 29.2252 Air...

  9. 7 CFR 29.2252 - Air-dried.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Air-dried. 29.2252 Section 29.2252 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Virginia Fire-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Type 21) § 29.2252 Air...

  10. 7 CFR 29.2252 - Air-dried.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Air-dried. 29.2252 Section 29.2252 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Virginia Fire-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Type 21) § 29.2252 Air...

  11. 7 CFR 29.2252 - Air-dried.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Air-dried. 29.2252 Section 29.2252 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Virginia Fire-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Type 21) § 29.2252 Air...

  12. 7 CFR 29.2252 - Air-dried.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Air-dried. 29.2252 Section 29.2252 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Virginia Fire-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Type 21) § 29.2252 Air...

  13. Ambient Concentrations of Metabolic Disrupting Chemicals and Children's Academic Achievement in El Paso, Texas.

    PubMed

    Clark-Reyna, Stephanie E; Grineski, Sara E; Collins, Timothy W

    2016-09-01

    Concerns about children's weight have steadily risen alongside the manufacture and use of myriad chemicals in the US. One class of chemicals, known as metabolic disruptors, interfere with human endocrine and metabolic functioning and are of specific concern to children's health and development. This article examines the effect of residential concentrations of metabolic disrupting chemicals on children's school performance for the first time. Census tract-level ambient concentrations for known metabolic disruptors come from the US Environmental Protection Agency's National Air Toxics Assessment. Other measures were drawn from a survey of primary caretakers of 4th and 5th grade children in El Paso Independent School District (El Paso, TX, USA). A mediation model is employed to examine two hypothetical pathways through which the ambient level of metabolic disruptors at a child's home might affect grade point average. Results indicate that concentrations of metabolic disruptors are statistically significantly associated with lower grade point averages directly and indirectly through body mass index. Findings from this study have practical implications for environmental justice research and chemical policy reform in the US.

  14. Relation Between Bitumen Content and Percentage Air Voids in Semi Dense Bituminous Concrete

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Panda, R. P.; Das, Sudhanshu Sekhar; Sahoo, P. K.

    2018-02-01

    Hot mix asphalt (HMA) is a heterogeneous mix of aggregate, mineral filler, bitumen, additives and air voids. Researchers have indicated that the durability of the HMA is sensitive on the actual bitumen content and percentage air void. This paper aims at establishing the relationship between the bitumen content and the percentage air voids in Semi Dense Bituminous Concrete (SDBC) using Viscosity Grade-30 (VG-30) bitumen. Total 54 samples have been collected, for formulation and validation of relationship and observed that the percentage air voids increases with decrease in actual bitumen content and vice versa. A minor increase in percentage air voids beyond practice of designed air voids in Marshall Method of design is required for better performance, indicating a need for reducing the codal provision of minimum bitumen content for SDBC as specified in Specification for Road & Bridges (Fourth Revision) published by Indian Road Congress, 2001. The study shows a possibility of reducing designed minimum bitumen content from codal provision for SDBC by 0.2% of weight with VG-30 grade of Bitumen.

  15. Relation Between Bitumen Content and Percentage Air Voids in Semi Dense Bituminous Concrete

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Panda, R. P.; Das, Sudhanshu Sekhar; Sahoo, P. K.

    2018-06-01

    Hot mix asphalt (HMA) is a heterogeneous mix of aggregate, mineral filler, bitumen, additives and air voids. Researchers have indicated that the durability of the HMA is sensitive on the actual bitumen content and percentage air void. This paper aims at establishing the relationship between the bitumen content and the percentage air voids in Semi Dense Bituminous Concrete (SDBC) using Viscosity Grade-30 (VG-30) bitumen. Total 54 samples have been collected, for formulation and validation of relationship and observed that the percentage air voids increases with decrease in actual bitumen content and vice versa. A minor increase in percentage air voids beyond practice of designed air voids in Marshall Method of design is required for better performance, indicating a need for reducing the codal provision of minimum bitumen content for SDBC as specified in Specification for Road & Bridges (Fourth Revision) published by Indian Road Congress, 2001. The study shows a possibility of reducing designed minimum bitumen content from codal provision for SDBC by 0.2% of weight with VG-30 grade of Bitumen.

  16. 7 CFR 29.3558 - Type 35.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign..., Kentucky-Tennessee-Indiana One Sucker, or Dark Air-cured One Sucker, including the upper Cumberland...

  17. 7 CFR 29.3558 - Type 35.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign..., Kentucky-Tennessee-Indiana One Sucker, or Dark Air-cured One Sucker, including the upper Cumberland...

  18. 7 CFR 29.3558 - Type 35.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign..., Kentucky-Tennessee-Indiana One Sucker, or Dark Air-cured One Sucker, including the upper Cumberland...

  19. 7 CFR 29.3558 - Type 35.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign..., Kentucky-Tennessee-Indiana One Sucker, or Dark Air-cured One Sucker, including the upper Cumberland...

  20. 7 CFR 29.3558 - Type 35.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign..., Kentucky-Tennessee-Indiana One Sucker, or Dark Air-cured One Sucker, including the upper Cumberland...

  1. Self-pressurized air-Q® intubating laryngeal airway versus the LMA® Classic™: a randomized clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Ha, Sang Hee; Kim, Min-Soo; Suh, Jiwoo; Lee, Jong Seok

    2018-05-01

    The self-pressurized air-Q® (air-Q SP) intubating laryngeal airway is a relatively new supraglottic airway (SGA) device. The intracuff pressure of air-Q dynamically equilibrates with the airway pressure and adjusts to the patient's pharyngeal and periglottic anatomy, potentially providing improved airway fit and seal. The aim of this prospective randomized study was to compare the clinical performance of air-Q to the LMA® Classic™ SGA. Adult patients requiring general anesthesia for elective surgery were prospectively enrolled and randomly assigned to either air-Q SP or the LMA Classic SGA. Oropharyngeal leak pressure (primary endpoint), success rate, insertion features (insertion time, ease of insertion, requirement for device manipulation), sealing function, gastric insufflation, bronchoscopic view, and oropharyngeal complications at device insertion and following its removal (sore throat, dysphagia, dysphonia) were compared. The mean (standard deviation [SD]) oropharyngeal leak pressure just after insertion was similar in the air-Q SP and LMA [16.8 (4.9) vs 18.6 (5.5) cm H 2 O, respectively; mean difference, 1.8 cm H 2 O; 95% CI, -0.5 to 4.2; P = 0.13] and did not differ at ten minutes following device insertion. Median [interquartile range (IQR)] peak inspiratory pressure just after insertion was lower in the air-Q SP (11.0 [10.0-13.0] vs 13.0 [11.0-14.0] cmH 2 O, median difference, 1.0 cm H 2 O; 95% CI, 0.0 to 2.0; P = 0.03) but no difference was observed at ten minutes. The median [IQR] insertion time was faster with the air-Q SP (15.9 [13.6-20.3] sec vs 24 [21.2-27.1] sec; median difference, 8.1 sec; 95% CI, 5.6 to 9.9; P < 0.001) and improved bronchoscopic viewing grade were seen with the air-Q SP immediately after insertion (P < 0.001). No differences between the groups were observed with respect to the rate of successful insertion at first attempt, overall insertion success rate, ease of insertion, and complications. The air-Q SP had similar leak pressures but a faster insertion time and superior bronchoscopic viewing grade when compared with the LMA Classic. The air-Q SP is a suitable alternative to the LMA Classic in adult patients and may be a superior conduit for tracheal intubation. www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02206438). Registered 1 August 2014.

  2. Control of cardiorespiratory function in response to hypoxia in an air-breathing fish, the African sharptooth catfish, Clarias gariepinus.

    PubMed

    Belão, T C; Zeraik, V M; Florindo, L H; Kalinin, A L; Leite, C A C; Rantin, F T

    2015-09-01

    We evaluated the role of the first pair of gill arches in the control of cardiorespiratory responses to normoxia and hypoxia in the air-breathing catfish, Clarias gariepinus. An intact group (IG) and an experimental group (EG, bilateral excision of first gill arch) were submitted to graded hypoxia, with and without access to air. The first pair of gill arches ablations reduced respiratory surface area and removed innervation by cranial nerve IX. In graded hypoxia without access to air, both groups displayed bradycardia and increased ventilatory stroke volume (VT), and the IG showed a significant increase in breathing frequency (fR). The EG exhibited very high fR in normoxia that did not increase further in hypoxia, this was linked to reduced O2 extraction from the ventilatory current (EO2) and a significantly higher critical O2 tension (PcO2) than the IG. In hypoxia with access to air, only the IG showed increased air-breathing, indicating that the first pair of gill arches excision severely attenuated air-breathing responses. Both groups exhibited bradycardia before and tachycardia after air-breaths. The fH and gill ventilation amplitude (VAMP) in the EG were overall higher than the IG. External and internal NaCN injections revealed that O2 chemoreceptors mediating ventilatory hypoxic responses (fR and VT) are internally oriented. The NaCN injections indicated that fR responses were mediated by receptors predominantly in the first pair of gill arches but VT responses by receptors on all gill arches. Receptors eliciting cardiac responses were both internally and externally oriented and distributed on all gill arches or extra-branchially. Air-breathing responses were predominantly mediated by receptors in the first pair of gill arches. In conclusion, the role of the first pair of gill arches is related to: (a) an elevated EO2 providing an adequate O2 uptake to maintain the aerobic metabolism during normoxia; (b) a significant bradycardia and increased fAB elicited by externally oriented O2 chemoreceptors; (c) increase in the ventilatory variables (fR and VAMP) stimulated by internally oriented O2 chemoreceptors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  3. [Comparison of ability to humidification of inspired air through the nose and oral cavity using dew point hygrometer].

    PubMed

    Paczesny, Daniel; Rapiejko, Piotr; Weremczuk, Jerzy; Jachowicz, Ryszard; Jurkiewicz, Dariusz

    2007-01-01

    Aim of this study was to check at the hospital the dew point hygrometer for fast measurement of air humidity in upper airways. The nose ability to humidification of inspired air and partially recover moisture from expired air was evaluated. Measurements from respiration through the nose and oral cavity were compared. The study was carried out in a group of 30 people (8 female and 22 male), age group 18 to 70 (mean age: 37 years old). In 22 of the participants there were no deviation from normal state in laryngologic examination, while in 4 participants nasal septum deviation without imaired nasal; oatency was found, in other 3--nasal vonchae hyperthrophy and in 1--nasal polips (grade I). The measurements of air humidity in upper air ways was done using specially designed and constructed measurement system. The air inspired through the nose and oral cavity is humidified. For typical external conditions (T = 22 degrees C i RH = 50%) the nose humidifies inspired air two times better then oral cavity (short time range of measurement approximately 1 min). Moisture from expired air through the nose is partially recovered (for patients with regular patency is 25% of the value of humidifying of inspired air). The oral cavity does not have ability to partially recovery moisture form expired air. The paper presented fast dew point hygrometer based on semiconductor microsystems for measurement humidity in inspired and expired air through the nose and oral cavity. Presented system can be a proper instrument for evaluation of nasal functions.

  4. Aviation Science Activities for Elementary Grades

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1983-01-01

    This manual is meant to be a springboard toward your own ideas for : demonstrating concepts of the Air Age to your children, whatever the grade : level. Even little children can learn scientific principles through simple teaching aids; older pupils c...

  5. Using Arduinos and 3D-printers to Build Research-grade Weather Stations and Environmental Sensors

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ham, J. M.

    2013-12-01

    Many plant, soil, and surface-boundary-layer processes in the geosphere are governed by the microclimate at the land-air interface. Environmental monitoring is needed at smaller scales and higher frequencies than provided by existing weather monitoring networks. The objective of this project was to design, prototype, and test a research-grade weather station that is based on open-source hardware/software and off-the-shelf components. The idea is that anyone could make these systems with only elementary skills in fabrication and electronics. The first prototypes included measurements of air temperature, humidity, pressure, global irradiance, wind speed, and wind direction. The best approach for measuring precipitation is still being investigated. The data acquisition system was deigned around the Arduino microcontroller and included an LCD-based user interface, SD card data storage, and solar power. Sensors were sampled at 5 s intervals and means, standard deviations, and maximum/minimums were stored at user-defined intervals (5, 30, or 60 min). Several of the sensor components were printed in plastic using a hobby-grade 3D printer (e.g., RepRap Project). Both passive and aspirated radiation shields for measuring air temperature were printed in white Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). A housing for measuring solar irradiance using a photodiode-based pyranometer was printed in opaque ABS. The prototype weather station was co-deployed with commercial research-grade instruments at an agriculture research unit near Fort Collins, Colorado, USA. Excellent agreement was found between Arduino-based system and commercial weather instruments. The technology was also used to support air quality research and automated air sampling. The next step is to incorporate remote access and station-to-station networking using Wi-Fi, cellular phone, and radio communications (e.g., Xbee).

  6. The Breath of Life. The Problem of Poisoned Air.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Carr, Donald E.

    The origins and nature of air pollution, from earliest days to the present, are examined in this book. Although air pollution has been with us since the discovery of fire, it is proffered that the major culprit now is the burning of gasoline and low-grade heating oil. All other sources of air pollution are negligible. The main thesis is that only…

  7. Plutonium Finishing Plant (PFP) HVAC System Component Index

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

    DICK, J.D.

    2000-02-28

    The Plutonium Finishing Plant (PFP) WAC System includes sub-systems 25A through 25K. Specific system boundaries and justifications are contained in HNF-SD-CP-SDD-005, ''Definition and Means of Maintaining the Ventilation System Confinement Portion of the PFP Safety Envelope.'' The procurement requirements associated with the system necessitates procurement of some system equipment as Commercial Grade Items in accordance with HNF-PRO-268, ''Control of Purchased Items and Services.'' This document lists safety class and safety significant components for the Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning and specifies the critical characteristics for Commercial Grade Items, as required by HNF-PRO-268 and HNF-PRO-1819. These are the minimum specifications that themore » equipment must meet in order to properly perform its safety function. There may be several manufacturers or models that meet the critical characteristics for any one item.« less

  8. Technical Subjects. Mathematics. Science. Curriculum RP-27.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ontario Dept. of Education, Toronto.

    GRADES OR AGES: Grades 9-12. SUBJECT MATTER: Technical subjects and special mathematics and science courses for technical students. Technical subjects include air conditioning, auto mechanics, carpentry, drafting, applied electronics, masonry, painting, plumbing, service station operation, welding, and woodworking. ORGANIZATION AND PHYSICAL…

  9. Safety in the Air: A Curriculum About Flight and Air Traffic Control Designed for Middle School Students

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1983-01-01

    Safety in the Air is designed to be taught as a six-lesson unit to middle school : students, preferably sixth, seventh, or eighth grade level. : This curriculum is designed first of all to familiarize both the teacher and the : student with some basi...

  10. Safety in the Air: A Curriculum about Flight and Air Traffic Control Designed for Middle School Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Colton, Ted

    This six-lesson unit is designed to familiarize sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students with air traffic safety and the individuals who make air traffic safety possible. Each lesson consists of a statement of the concept fostered, a list of objectives, a brief discussion on the focus of the unit, and instructional strategies for lesson topics…

  11. Evaluation of analytical methodology for hydrocarbons in high pressure air and nitrogen systems. [evaluation of methodology

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1977-01-01

    Samples of liquid oxygen, high pressure nitrogen, low pressure nitrogen, and missile grade air were studied to determine the hydrocarbon concentrations. Concentration of the samples was achieved by adsorption on a molecular sieve and activated charcoal. The trapped hydrocarbons were then desorbed and transferred to an analytical column in a gas chromatograph. The sensitivity of the method depends on the volume of gas passed through the adsorbent tubes. The value of the method was verified through recoverability and reproducibility studies. The use of this method enables LOX, GN2, and missile grade air systems to be routinely monitored to determine low level increases in specific hydrocarbon concentration that could lead to potentially hazardous conditions.

  12. Compaction and measurement of field density for Oregon open-graded (F-MIX) asphalt pavement

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1999-06-01

    A research project conducted by Oregon State University (OSU) and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) investigated compaction of Oregon F-mix asphalt pavement, an open-graded mix with 25-mm maximum size aggregate and air voids typically in...

  13. Transportation: Grade 8. Cluster IV.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Calhoun, Olivia H.

    A curriculum guide for grade 8, the document is devoted to the occupational cluster "Transportation." It is divided into five units: surface transportation, interstate transportation, air transportation, water transportation, and subterranean transportation (the Metro). Each unit is introduced by a statement of the topic, the unit's…

  14. 7 CFR 29.3535 - Offtype.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... as Dark Air-cured, U.S. Type 35, 36, 37, or Foreign Type 95. (See Rule 24, § 29.3625.) [30 FR 9207...

  15. 7 CFR 29.3535 - Offtype.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... as Dark Air-cured, U.S. Type 35, 36, 37, or Foreign Type 95. (See Rule 24, § 29.3625.) [30 FR 9207...

  16. 7 CFR 29.3535 - Offtype.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... as Dark Air-cured, U.S. Type 35, 36, 37, or Foreign Type 95. (See Rule 24, § 29.3625.) [30 FR 9207...

  17. 7 CFR 29.3535 - Offtype.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... as Dark Air-cured, U.S. Type 35, 36, 37, or Foreign Type 95. (See Rule 24, § 29.3625.) [30 FR 9207...

  18. 7 CFR 29.3535 - Offtype.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... as Dark Air-cured, U.S. Type 35, 36, 37, or Foreign Type 95. (See Rule 24, § 29.3625.) [30 FR 9207...

  19. Functionally Graded Multifunctional Hybrid Composites for Extreme Environments

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-02-01

    Develop multifunctional FGHC with multiple layers: a ceramic thermal barrier layer, a graded ceramic /metal composite (GCMeC) layer and a high...AFOSR-MURI Functionally Graded Hybrid Composites Actively Cooled PMC White (UIUC) FGHC Fabrication Team Graded Ceramic Metal Composites (GCMeC...Composites Fabrication and Characterization of Bulk Ceramic MAX Phase and MAX–Metal Composites AFOSR-MURI Functionally Graded Hybrid Composites Mn

  20. Prediction of PM10 grades in Seoul, Korea using a neural network model based on synoptic patterns

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hur, S. K.; Oh, H. R.; Ho, C. H.; Kim, J.; Song, C. K.; Chang, L. S.; Lee, J. B.

    2016-12-01

    As of November 2014, the Korean Ministry of Environment (KME) started forecasting the level of ambient particulate matter with diameters ≤ 10 μm (PM10) as four grades: low (PM10 ≤ 30 μg m-3), moderate (30 < PM10 ≤ 80 μg m-3), high (80 < PM10 ≤ 150 μg m-3), and very high (PM10 > 150 μg m-3). Due to short history of forecast, overall performance of the operational forecasting system and its hit rate for the four PM10 grades are difficult to evaluate. In attempt to provide a statistical reference for the current air quality forecasting system, we hindcasted the four PM10 grades for the cold seasons (October-March) of 2001-2014 in Seoul, Korea using a neural network model based on the synoptic patterns of meteorological fields such as geopotential height, air temperature, relative humidity, and wind. In the form of cosine similarity, the distinctive synoptic patterns for each PM10 grades are well quantified as predictors to train the neural network model. Using these fields as predictors and considering the PM10 concentration in Seoul from the day before prediction as an additional predictor, an overall hit rate of 69% was achieved; the hit rates for the low, moderate, high, and very high PM10 grades were 33%, 83%, 45%, and 33%, respectively. This study reveals that the synoptic patterns of meteorological fields are useful predictors for the identification of favorable conditions for each PM10 grade, and the associated transboundary transport and local accumulation of PM10 from the industrialized regions of China. Consequently, the assessments of predictability obtained from the neural network model in this study are reliable to use as a statistical reference for the current air quality forecasting system.

  1. Determining the Return of Energy Efficiency Investments in Domestic and Deployed Military Installations

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-12-01

    Ventilation, and Air Conditioning IED Improvised Explosive Device IG DoD Inspector General, Department of Defense IGA Investment Grade Audit JLTV...that certain energy efficient improvements will be achieved (Hansen, 2003). Investment Grade Audit (IGA). Based on the premise that energy...low- grade propane; and a modified diesel engine that can burn gas, ethanol, and diesel fuel in variable proportions (Hamilton, 2007). The TGER

  2. Multi-class SVM model for fMRI-based classification and grading of liver fibrosis

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Freiman, M.; Sela, Y.; Edrei, Y.; Pappo, O.; Joskowicz, L.; Abramovitch, R.

    2010-03-01

    We present a novel non-invasive automatic method for the classification and grading of liver fibrosis from fMRI maps based on hepatic hemodynamic changes. This method automatically creates a model for liver fibrosis grading based on training datasets. Our supervised learning method evaluates hepatic hemodynamics from an anatomical MRI image and three T2*-W fMRI signal intensity time-course scans acquired during the breathing of air, air-carbon dioxide, and carbogen. It constructs a statistical model of liver fibrosis from these fMRI scans using a binary-based one-against-all multi class Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifier. We evaluated the resulting classification model with the leave-one out technique and compared it to both full multi-class SVM and K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) classifications. Our experimental study analyzed 57 slice sets from 13 mice, and yielded a 98.2% separation accuracy between healthy and low grade fibrotic subjects, and an overall accuracy of 84.2% for fibrosis grading. These results are better than the existing image-based methods which can only discriminate between healthy and high grade fibrosis subjects. With appropriate extensions, our method may be used for non-invasive classification and progression monitoring of liver fibrosis in human patients instead of more invasive approaches, such as biopsy or contrast-enhanced imaging.

  3. Grading of Student's Attainment: Purposes and Functions.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lysne, Anders

    1984-01-01

    Traces the history of grading and discusses the complex problem of evaluation and grading of student achievement. Reviews the various reference measures and notes the type of functions grades are supposed to serve. Cites seven alternatives to traditional grading. Concludes that "grades are the tail that wags the dog." (BRR)

  4. 7 CFR 29.3533 - Nested.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... arranged to conceal foreign matter or tobacco of inferior grade, quality, or condition. Nested includes: (a) Any lot of tobacco which contains foreign matter or damaged, injured, tangled, or other inferior...

  5. 7 CFR 29.3533 - Nested.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... arranged to conceal foreign matter or tobacco of inferior grade, quality, or condition. Nested includes: (a) Any lot of tobacco which contains foreign matter or damaged, injured, tangled, or other inferior...

  6. 7 CFR 29.3533 - Nested.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... arranged to conceal foreign matter or tobacco of inferior grade, quality, or condition. Nested includes: (a) Any lot of tobacco which contains foreign matter or damaged, injured, tangled, or other inferior...

  7. 7 CFR 29.3533 - Nested.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... arranged to conceal foreign matter or tobacco of inferior grade, quality, or condition. Nested includes: (a) Any lot of tobacco which contains foreign matter or damaged, injured, tangled, or other inferior...

  8. Value of Job Experience to Teaching Effectiveness of Technical Training Instructors.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Askren, William B.; Valentine, Robert I.

    Air Force technical training instructors with and without field job experience were compared regarding teaching effectiveness. Student grades, written critiques, and supervisor ratings were used to measure effectiveness. Results indicated significant differences between instructors on student overall course grades and critiques. However, an…

  9. Hypoxic cardiorespiratory reflexes in the facultative air-breathing fish jeju (Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus): role of branchial O2 chemoreceptors.

    PubMed

    Lopes, Jane Mello; Boijink, Cheila de Lima; Florindo, Luiz Henrique; Leite, Cleo Alcantara Costa; Kalinin, Ana Lúcia; Milsom, William K; Rantin, Francisco Tadeu

    2010-08-01

    In one series of experiments, heart frequency (f (H)), blood pressure (P (a)), gill ventilation frequency (f ( R )), ventilation amplitude (V (AMP)) and total gill ventilation (V (TOT)) were measured in intact jeju (Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus) and jeju with progressive denervation of the branchial branches of cranial nerves IX (glossopharyngeal) and X (vagus) without access to air. When these fish were submitted to graded hypoxia (water PO(2) approximately 140, normoxia to 17 mmHg, severe hypoxia), they increased f ( R ), V (AMP), V (TOT) and P (a) and decreased f (H). In a second series of experiments, air-breathing frequency (f (RA)), measured in fish with access to the surface, increased with graded hypoxia. In both series, bilateral denervation of all gill arches eliminated the responses to graded hypoxia. Based on the effects of internal (caudal vein, 150 microg NaCN in 0.2 mL saline) and external (buccal) injections of NaCN (500 microg NaCN in 1.0 mL water) on f (R), V (AMP), V (TOT), P (a) and f (H) we conclude that the O(2) receptors involved in eliciting changes in gill ventilation and associated cardiovascular responses are present on all gill arches and monitor the O(2) levels of both inspired water and blood perfusing the gills. We also conclude that air breathing arises solely from stimulation of branchial chemoreceptors and support the hypothesis that internal hypoxaemia is the primary drive to air breathing.

  10. Sliding Wear and Fretting Wear of DLC-Based, Functionally Graded Nanocomposite Coatings

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Miyoshi, K.; Pohlchuck, B.; Street, Kenneth W.; Zabinski, J. S.; Sanders, J. H.; Voevodin, A. a.; Wu, R. L. C.

    1999-01-01

    Improving the tribological functionality of diamondlike carbon (DLC) films--developing, good wear resistance, low friction, and high load-carrying capacity-was the aim of this investigation. Nanocomposite coatings consisting of an amorphous DLC (a-DLC) top layer and a functionally graded titanium-titanium carbon-diamondlike carbon (Ti-Ti(sub x) C(sub y)-DLC) underlayer were produced on AISI 440C stainless steel substrates by the hybrid technique of magnetron sputtering and pulsed-laser deposition. The resultant DLC films were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and surface profilometry. Two types of wear experiment were conducted in this investioation: sliding friction experiments and fretting wear experiments. Unidirectional ball-on-disk sliding friction experiments were conducted to examine the wear behavior of an a-DLC/Ti-Ti(sub x) C(sub y)-DLC-coated AISI 440C stainless steel disk in sliding contact with a 6-mm-diameter AISI 440C stainless steel ball in ultrahigh vacuum, dry nitrogen, and humid air. Although the wear rates for both the coating and ball were low in all three environments, the humid air and dry nitrogen caused mild wear with burnishing, in the a-DLC top layer, and the ultrahigh vacuum caused relatively severe wear with brittle fracture in both the a-DLC top layer and the Ti-Ti(sub x) C(sub y)-DLC underlayer. For reference, amorphous hydrogenated carbon (H-DLC) films produced on a-DLC/Ti-Ti(sub x) C(sub y)-DLC nanocomposite coatings by using an ion beam were also examined in the same manner. The H-DLC films markedly reduced friction even in ultrahigh vacuum without sacrificing wear resistance. The H-DLC films behaved much like the a-DLC/Ti-Ti(sub x) C(sub y)-DLC nanocomposite coating in dry nitrogen and humid air, presenting low friction and low wear. Fretting wear experiments were conducted in humid air (approximately 50% relative humidity) at a frequency of 80 Hz and an amplitude of 75 micron on an a-DLC/Ti-Ti(sub x) C(sub y)-DLC-coated AISI 440C disk and on a titanium-6 wt % aluminum-4 wt% vanadium (Ti-6Al-4V) flat, both in contact with a 9.4-mm-diameter, hemispherical Ti-6Al-4V pin. The resistance to fretting wear and damage of the a-DLC/Ti-6Al-4V materials pair was superior to that of the Ti-6Al-4V/Ti-6AI-4V materials pair.

  11. Creating Joint Leaders Today for a Successful Air Force Tomorrow (1REV)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-04-01

    armed force in the same grade and competitive category who are serving on, or have served on, the HQ staff of their armed force; and 2. Officers in the...period from the release of the promotion results and the pin-on date. 5 Department of the Air Force, HQ Air Force Personnel Center, Demographics and...2009), Section 619a. 9 ibid, Section 619a. 10 Department of the Air Force, HQ Air Force Personnel Center, A-1 Manpower Division. 11 Phone

  12. An analysis of global problem issues in sixth-and seventh-grade textbooks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hamm, Mary; Adams, Dennis

    The study examines the extent to which the global issues of population growth, world hunger, air quality and atmosphere, and water resources were treated in sixth- and seventh-grade science textbooks. Ten textbooks were examined by five raters to determine the amount of content presented by different textbooks on global issues, the number of pages of content devoted to each issue, and the degree of depth in which issues were treated. Differences between grade levels were also explored. Of the 4,393 pages of content analyzed, less than 2 percent was devoted to these issues identified as the most serious human problems. No significant differences were found between textbook series. Significant differences were found in the number of pages of content presented on each issue. Most of the content fell into the categories of water resources, population growth, air quality, and atmosphere. The issue of war technology had the least amount of content. Distribution of content did not vary by grade level. Both levels addressed the issues of population growth, air quality, and water resources with a greater degree of depth than the issue of world hunger or war technology. The study concludes that the most widely used textbooks at the sixth- and seventh-grade levels avoid serious discussion of major global problems. And like the career indecision of a recent Miss America contestant, purchasers don't seem to be able to decide whether they want science textbooks to be a brain surgeon or a movie actress. Implications stemming from this dichotomy and its relationship to future science education curricular are also explored.

  13. Adolescents born prematurely with isolated grade 2 haemorrhage in the early 1990s face increased risks of learning challenges.

    PubMed

    Vohr, Betty R; Allan, Walter; Katz, Karol H; Schneider, Karen; Tucker, Richard; Ment, Laura R

    2014-10-01

    To compare the impact of low-grade haemorrhage on neurocognitive function in 16-year-old adolescents born preterm, by grade of intraventricular haemorrhage, and term controls. We evaluated 338 preterm adolescents (birth weight 600-1250 g) for intelligence, executive function and memory tasks. Eleven had grade 3-4 haemorrhage, 44 had grade 2, 31 had grade 1, and 251 had no haemorrhage. Group comparisons were made with 102 term age-matched controls, and regression models used to identify the risk that low-grade haemorrhage posed for cognitive, executive function and memory deficits. Preterm adolescents with grade 2 haemorrhage had higher deficit rates of verbal intelligence, receptive vocabulary, phonemic fluency, cognitive flexibility and phonological fluency than preterm adolescents with grade 1 or no haemorrhage, compared with term controls. After excluding preterm adolescents with both grade 2 haemorrhage and cystic periventricular leukomalacia, those with isolated grade 2 haemorrhage remained at greater risk of cognitive and executive function deficits than term controls and of cognitive deficits than preterm adolescents with no haemorrhage. Our findings suggest that preterm adolescents born in the early 1990s with isolated grade 2 haemorrhage are at increased risk of learning challenges, including cognitive and executive function deficits. ©2014 Foundation Acta Paediatrica. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  14. Evaluating the predictability of PM10 grades in Seoul, Korea using a neural network model based on synoptic patterns.

    PubMed

    Hur, Sun-Kyong; Oh, Hye-Ryun; Ho, Chang-Hoi; Kim, Jinwon; Song, Chang-Keun; Chang, Lim-Seok; Lee, Jae-Bum

    2016-11-01

    As of November 2014, the Korean Ministry of Environment (KME) has been forecasting the concentration of particulate matter with diameters ≤ 10 μm (PM 10 ) classified into four grades: low (PM 10  ≤ 30 μg m -3 ), moderate (30 < PM 10  ≤ 80 μg m -3 ), high (80 < PM 10  ≤ 150 μg m -3 ), and very high (PM 10  > 150 μg m -3 ). The KME operational center generates PM 10 forecasts using statistical and chemistry-transport models, but the overall performance and the hit rate for the four PM 10 grades has not previously been evaluated. To provide a statistical reference for the current air quality forecasting system, we have developed a neural network model based on the synoptic patterns of several meteorological fields such as geopotential height, air temperature, relative humidity, and wind. Hindcast of the four PM 10 grades in Seoul, Korea was performed for the cold seasons (October-March) of 2001-2014 when the high and very high PM 10 grades are frequently observed. Because synoptic patterns of the meteorological fields are distinctive for each PM 10 grade, these fields were adopted and quantified as predictors in the form of cosine similarities to train the neural network model. Using these predictors in conjunction with the PM 10 concentration in Seoul from the day before prediction as an additional predictor, an overall hit rate of 69% was achieved; the hit rates for the low, moderate, high, and very high PM 10 grades were 33%, 83%, 45%, and 33%, respectively. Our findings also suggest that the synoptic patterns of meteorological variables are reliable predictors for the identification of the favorable conditions for each PM 10 grade, as well as for the transboundary transport of PM 10 from China. This evaluation of PM 10 predictability can be reliably used as a statistical reference and further, complement to the current air quality forecasting system. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. The Relationship between College Grades and Adult Achievement Reconsidered. AIR Forum 1982 Paper.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lewis, John; Nelson, Kim

    The relationship between college grades and achievement of college graduates was studied at Winona State University, Minnesota. The following criteria for investigating this relationship were assessed: quality of vocational achievement, acceptance of responsibility in social groups, and further intellectual development. These criteria were…

  16. 40 CFR 86.1322-84 - Carbon monoxide analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... be used. (2) Zero the carbon monoxide analyzer with either zero-grade air or zero-grade nitrogen. (3... columns is one form of corrective action which may be taken.) (b) Initial and periodic calibration. Prior... calibrated. (1) Adjust the analyzer to optimize performance. (2) Zero the carbon monoxide analyzer with...

  17. Aviation Science Activities for Elementary Grades. Revised.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Federal Aviation Administration (DOT), Washington, DC.

    This guide contains the procedures and lists of materials needed for 105 aviation activities, demonstrations, and experiments. These activities, demonstrations, and experiments (suitable for students in all elementary grades) are organized into three sections by major topic area: (1) properties of air; (2) factors related to airplane flight; and…

  18. Vitrification of human pronuclear oocytes by direct plunging into cooling agent: Non sterile liquid nitrogen vs. sterile liquid air.

    PubMed

    Isachenko, Vladimir; Todorov, Plamen; Seisenbayeva, Akerke; Toishibekov, Yerzhan; Isachenko, Evgenia; Rahimi, Gohar; Mallmann, Peter; Foth, Dolores; Merzenich, Markus

    2018-02-01

    In fact, a full sterilization of commercially-produced liquid nitrogen contaminated with different pathogens is not possible. The aim of this study was to compare the viability of human pronuclear oocytes subjected to cooling by direct submerging of open carrier in liquid nitrogen versus submerging in clean liquid air (aseptic system). One- and three-pronuclei stage embryos (n = 444) were cryopreserved by direct plunging into liquid nitrogen (vitrified) in ethylene glycol (15%), dimethylsulphoxide (15%) and 0.2M sucrose. Oocytes were exposed in 20, 33, 50 and 100% vitrification solution for 2, 1 and 1 min, and 30-50 s, respectively at room temperature. Then first part of oocytes (n = 225) were directly plunged into liquid nitrogen, and second part of oocytes (n = 219) into liquid air. Oocytes were thawed rapidly at a speed of 20,000 °C/min and then subsequently were placed into a graded series of sucrose solutions (0.5, 0.25, 0.12 and 0.06M) at 2.5 min intervals and cultured in vitro for 3 days. In both groups, the rate of high-quality embryos (Grade 6A: 6 blastomeres, no fragmentation; Grade 8A: 8 blastomeres, no fragmentation; Grade 8A compacting: 8 blastomeres, beginning of compacting) was noted. The rates of high-quality embryos developed from one-pronuclear oocytes vitrified by cooling in liquid nitrogen and liquid air were: 39.4% ± 0.6 and 38.7% ± 0.8, respectively (P > 0.1). These rates for three-pronuclear oocytes were: 45.8 ± 0.8% and 52.0 ± 0.7%, respectively (P < 0.05). In conclusion, vitrification by direct submerging of oocytes in clean liquid air (aseptic system) is a good alternative for using of not sterile liquid nitrogen. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

  19. Sampling and Analyzing Air Pollution: An Apparatus Suitable for Use in Schools.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rockwell, Dean M.; Hansen, Tony

    1994-01-01

    Describes two variations of an air sampler and analyzer that are inexpensive to construct, easy to operate, and designed to be used in an educational program. Variations use vacuum cleaners and aquarium pumps, and white facial tissues serve as filters. Samples of air pollution obtained by this method may be used from early grade school to advanced…

  20. Value loss of hardwood lumber during air-drying

    Treesearch

    Leland F. Hanks; Margaret K. Peirsol

    1975-01-01

    Dry lumber prices were applied to green and air-dried lumber that was measured with a dry board rule. Values were summed by species, lumber grade, and thickness class. Differences between green and air-dried lumber value have been termed value losses and are given in dollars and in percentages. The percentages have been separated into loss due to shrinkage and loss due...

  1. Preparation of High-Grade Powders from Tomato Paste Using a Vacuum Foam Drying Method.

    PubMed

    Sramek, Martin; Schweiggert, Ralf Martin; van Kampen, Andreas; Carle, Reinhold; Kohlus, Reinhard

    2015-08-01

    We present a rapid and gentle drying method for the production of high-grade tomato powders from double concentrated tomato paste, comparing results with powders obtained by foam mat air drying and freeze dried powders. The principle of this method consists of drying tomato paste in foamed state at low temperatures in vacuum. The formulations were dried at temperatures of 50, 60, and 70 °C and vacuum of 200 mbar. Foam stability was affected by low serum viscosity and the presence of solid particles in tomato paste. Consequently, serum viscosity was increased by maltodextrin addition, yielding optimum stability at tomato paste:maltodextrin ratio of 2.4:1 (w/w) in dry matter. Material foamability was improved by addition of 0.5% (w/w, fresh weight) egg white. Because of solid particles in tomato paste, foam air filling had to be limited to critical air volume fraction of Φ = 0.7. The paste was first pre-foamed to Φ = 0.2 and subsequently expanded in vacuo. After drying to a moisture content of 5.6% to 7.5% wet base (w.b.), the materials obtained were in glassy state. Qualities of the resulting powders were compared with those produced by freeze and air drying. Total color changes were the least after vacuum drying, whereas air drying resulted in noticeable color changes. Vacuum foam drying at 50 °C led to insignificant carotenoid losses, being equivalent to the time-consuming freeze drying method. In contrast, air drying caused lycopene and β-carotene losses of 18% to 33% and 14% to 19% respectively. Thus, vacuum foam drying enables production of high-grade tomato powders being qualitatively similar to powders obtained by freeze drying. © 2015 Institute of Food Technologists®

  2. Thermo-Elastic Analysis of Internally Cooled Structures Using a Higher Order Theory

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Arnold, Steven M.; Bednarcyk, Brett A.; Aboudi, Jacob

    2001-01-01

    This paper presents the results of a study on the thermomechanical behavior of internally cooled silicon nitride structures. Silicon nitride is under consideration for elevated temperature aerospace engine applications. and techniques for lowering the operating temperature of structures composed of this material are under development. Lowering the operating temperature provides a large payoff in terms of fatigue life and may be accomplished through the use of thermal barrier coatings (TBC's) and the novel concept of included cooling channels. Herein, an in-depth study is performed on the behavior of a flame-impinged silicon nitride plate with a TBC and internal channels cooled by forced air. The analysis is performed using the higher order theory for functionally graded materials (HOTFGM), which has been developed through NASA Glenn Research Center funding over the past several years. HOTFGM was chosen over the traditional finite element approach as a prelude to an examination of functionally graded silicon nitride structures for which HOTFGM is ideally suited. To accommodate the analysis requirement% of the internally cooled plate problem, two crucial enhancements were made to the two-dimensional Cartesian-based version of HOTFGM. namely, incorporation of internal boundary capabilities and incorporation of convective boundary conditions. Results indicate the viability and large benefits of cooling the plate via forced air through cooling channels. Furthermore, cooling can positively impact the stress and displacement fields present in the plate, yielding an additional payoff in terms of fatigue life. Finally, a spin-off capability resulted from inclusion of internal boundaries within HOTFGM; the ability to simulate the thermo-elastic response of structures with curved surfaces. This new capability is demonstrated, and through comparison with an analytical solution, shown to be viable and accurate.

  3. One-Dimensional and Two-Dimensional Analytical Solutions for Functionally Graded Beams with Different Moduli in Tension and Compression

    PubMed Central

    Li, Xue; Dong, Jiao

    2018-01-01

    The material considered in this study not only has a functionally graded characteristic but also exhibits different tensile and compressive moduli of elasticity. One-dimensional and two-dimensional mechanical models for a functionally graded beam with a bimodular effect were established first. By taking the grade function as an exponential expression, the analytical solutions of a bimodular functionally graded beam under pure bending and lateral-force bending were obtained. The regression from a two-dimensional solution to a one-dimensional solution is verified. The physical quantities in a bimodular functionally graded beam are compared with their counterparts in a classical problem and a functionally graded beam without a bimodular effect. The validity of the plane section assumption under pure bending and lateral-force bending is analyzed. Three typical cases that the tensile modulus is greater than, equal to, or less than the compressive modulus are discussed. The result indicates that due to the introduction of the bimodular functionally graded effect of the materials, the maximum tensile and compressive bending stresses may not take place at the bottom and top of the beam. The real location at which the maximum bending stress takes place is determined via the extreme condition for the analytical solution. PMID:29772835

  4. Dispersion relations of elastic waves in one-dimensional piezoelectric/piezomagnetic phononic crystal with functionally graded interlayers.

    PubMed

    Guo, Xiao; Wei, Peijun; Lan, Man; Li, Li

    2016-08-01

    The effects of functionally graded interlayers on dispersion relations of elastic waves in a one-dimensional piezoelectric/piezomagnetic phononic crystal are studied in this paper. First, the state transfer equation of the functionally graded interlayer is derived from the motion equation by the reduction of order (from second order to first order). The transfer matrix of the functionally graded interlayer is obtained by solving the state transfer equation with the spatial-varying coefficient. Based on the transfer matrixes of the piezoelectric slab, the piezomagnetic slab and the functionally graded interlayers, the total transfer matrix of a single cell is obtained. Further, the Bloch theorem is used to obtain the resultant dispersion equations of in-plane and anti-plane Bloch waves. The dispersion equations are solved numerically and the numerical results are shown graphically. Five kinds of profiles of functionally graded interlayers between a piezoelectric slab and a piezomagnetic slab are considered. It is shown that the functionally graded interlayers have evident influences on the dispersion curves and the band gaps. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  5. Implementation of a Biomass Energy Island for a Forested Air Force Installation.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1983-01-01

    categnrized by sales/harvesting, reforestation and wildif ,. management and other environmental concerns. The existing Grade 9 Forester are a newly created...Federal P.viation Pdministration air corridor for Okaloosa County Airport Forestry Management Compartments 2 and 4, and existing pine plantations

  6. Differential Item Functioning by Gender on a Large-Scale Science Performance Assessment: A Comparison across Grade Levels.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Holweger, Nancy; Taylor, Grace

    The fifth-grade and eighth-grade science items on a state performance assessment were compared for differential item functioning (DIF) due to gender. The grade 5 sample consisted of 8,539 females and 8,029 males and the grade 8 sample consisted of 7,477 females and 7,891 males. A total of 30 fifth grade items and 26 eighth grade items were…

  7. 40 CFR 86.122-78 - Carbon monoxide analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... sensitive range to be used. (2) Zero the carbon monoxide analyzer with either zero-grade air or zero-grade... conditioning columns is one form of corrective action which may be taken.) (b) Initial and periodic calibration... calibrated. (1) Adjust the analyzer to optimize performance. (2) Zero the carbon monoxide analyzer with...

  8. Weather. Third Grade. Revised. Anchorage School District Elementary Science Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Defendorf, Jean, Ed.

    This resource book introduces third-grade children to the environment by studying the weather and its effects. Lessons are provided including: (1) constructing a weather diary; (2) thermometers; (3) clouds; (4) barometric pressure; (5) wind vanes; (6) heating and cooling air; and (7) analyzing weather data. Each lesson includes a listing of…

  9. Job Grading Standard for Blocker and Bracer WG-4602.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Civil Service Commission, Washington, DC. Bureau of Policies and Standards.

    The standard is used to grade nonsupervisor's work involved in blocking, bracing, staying, and securing cargo for shipment by land, sea, or air. It requires skill in constructing, placing, and installing wooden blocks, wedges, bracing structures and other staying devices, as well as skill in securing items using wires, ropes, chains, cables,…

  10. Air and Weather Seychelles Integrated Science. [Teacher and Pupil Booklets]. Unit 2.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Brophy, M.; Fryars, M.

    Seychelles Integrated Science (SIS), a 3-year laboratory-based science program for students (ages 11-15) in upper primary grades 7, 8, and 9, was developed from an extensive evaluation and modification of previous P7-P9 materials. This P7 SIS unit focuses on: (1) the importance of air and air pressure in students' everyday lives; (2) oxidation…

  11. Hyperoxia and hypergravity are independent risk factors of atelectasis in healthy sitting humans: a pulmonary ultrasound and SPECT/CT study.

    PubMed

    Dussault, C; Gontier, E; Verret, C; Soret, M; Boussuges, A; Hedenstierna, G; Montmerle-Borgdorff, S

    2016-07-01

    Aeroatelectasis has developed in aircrew flying routine peacetime flights on the latest generation high-performance aircraft, when undergoing excessive oxygen supply. To single out the effects of hyperoxia and hypergravity on lung tissue compression, and on ventilation and perfusion, eight subjects were studied before and after 1 h 15 min exposure to +1 to +3.5 Gz in a human centrifuge. They performed the protocol three times, breathing air, 44.5% O2, or 100% O2 and underwent functional and topographical imaging of the whole lung by ultrasound and single-photon emission computed tomography combined with computed tomography (SPECT/CT). Ultrasound lung comets (ULC) and atelectasis both increased after exposure. The number of ULC was <1 pre protocol (i.e., normal lung) and larger post 100% O2 (22 ± 3, mean ± SD) than in all other conditions (P < 0.001). Post 44.5% O2 differed from air (P < 0.05). Seven subjects showed low- to medium-grade atelectasis post 100% O2 There was an effect on grade of gas mixture and hypergravity, with interaction (P < 0.001, respectively); 100% O2, 44.5% O2, and air differed from each other (P < 0.05). SPECT ventilation and perfusion were always normal. Ultrasound concurred with CT in showing normal lung in the upper third and ULC/atelectasis in posterior and inferior areas, not for other localizations. In conclusion, hyperoxia and hypergravity are independent risk factors of reversible atelectasis formation. Ultrasound is a useful screening tool. Together with electrical impedance tomography measurements (reported separately), these findings show that zones with decreased ventilation prone to transient airway closure are present above atelectatic areas. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

  12. Flight. Science Series Grades 4, 5, 6.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Frensch, Helen

    The activities in this book are designed to reinforce the elementary concepts of flight. General background information, suggested activities, questions for discussion, and answers are provided. Twenty-eight reproducible worksheets are contained in this guide. Topics include: hot air balloons, the physics of flight, air resistance, airplane…

  13. We Depend on Illinois' Environment.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, Springfield.

    This teachers guide contains information and activities to provide 5th-grade students with a hands-on experience with air, land, and water pollution in Illinois. This booklet incorporates previous documents entitled: "Water the Liquid of Life,""The Land We Depend On," and "The Air We Breathe." The materials are…

  14. Mechanical and biological properties of the micro-/nano-grain functionally graded hydroxyapatite bioceramics for bone tissue engineering.

    PubMed

    Zhou, Changchun; Deng, Congying; Chen, Xuening; Zhao, Xiufen; Chen, Ying; Fan, Yujiang; Zhang, Xingdong

    2015-08-01

    Functionally graded materials (FGM) open the promising approach for bone tissue repair. In this study, a novel functionally graded hydroxyapatite (HA) bioceramic with micrograin and nanograin structure was fabricated. Its mechanical properties were tailored by composition of micrograin and nanograin. The dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) indicated that the graded HA ceramics had similar mechanical property compared to natural bones. Their cytocompatibility was evaluated via fluorescent microscopy and MTT colorimetric assay. The viability and proliferation of rabbit bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on ceramics indicated that this functionally graded HA ceramic had better cytocompatibility than conventional HA ceramic. This study demonstrated that functionally graded HA ceramics create suitable structures to satisfy both the mechanical and biological requirements of bone tissues. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  15. Effects of Oxidation on Oxidation-Resistant Graphite

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

    Windes, William; Smith, Rebecca; Carroll, Mark

    2015-05-01

    The Advanced Reactor Technology (ART) Graphite Research and Development Program is investigating doped nuclear graphite grades that exhibit oxidation resistance through the formation of protective oxides on the surface of the graphite material. In the unlikely event of an oxygen ingress accident, graphite components within the VHTR core region are anticipated to oxidize so long as the oxygen continues to enter the hot core region and the core temperatures remain above 400°C. For the most serious air-ingress accident which persists over several hours or days the continued oxidation can result in significant structural damage to the core. Reducing the oxidationmore » rate of the graphite core material during any air-ingress accident would mitigate the structural effects and keep the core intact. Previous air oxidation testing of nuclear-grade graphite doped with varying levels of boron-carbide (B4C) at a nominal 739°C was conducted for a limited number of doped specimens demonstrating a dramatic reduction in oxidation rate for the boronated graphite grade. This report summarizes the conclusions from this small scoping study by determining the effects of oxidation on the mechanical strength resulting from oxidation of boronated and unboronated graphite to a 10% mass loss level. While the B4C additive did reduce mechanical strength loss during oxidation, adding B4C dopants to a level of 3.5% or more reduced the as-fabricated compressive strength nearly 50%. This effectively minimized any benefits realized from the protective film formed on the boronated grades. Future work to infuse different graphite grades with silicon- and boron-doped material as a post-machining conditioning step for nuclear components is discussed as a potential solution for these challenges in this report.« less

  16. Energy Tracking in Classrooms - A Real Time Experiment with Grade 5 Students

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lam, H. M.; Ho, F.

    2015-12-01

    ISF Academy, a K-G12 school in Hong Kong with over 1500 students and currently spanning 3 buildings, is retrofitting the school with an energy tracking system in three phases. The first phase during the fall of 2015 will include retrofitting eight Grade 5 classrooms. This new program will show the daily energy usage data from these classrooms. The Grade 5 students receive feedback on their energy use in real time as they compete over two months in their homeroom classes to lower their electrical use, and subsequently their carbon footprint. This competition style initiative will teach the 180 Grade 5 students about their energy usage in a fun and informative manner. ISF Academy has over 400 air-conditioners and we have already determined that the air conditioners are the largest single use of energy in the school. The energy tracking system installed and maintained by from Global Design Corporation utilizes uniquely identified current detectors attached to circuit breakers, to monitor electrical use of individual circuits. These detectors will also monitor the energy used for classroom lighting, fans and plugs, as well as the air conditioners. The system has been installed and the Grade 5 classrooms averaged between 40 kWh and 120 kWh of usage in May 2015. This data will be used as the baseline for the competition. Further analysis can also be done with the data, such as calculating the carbon emissions reduction throughout the school year, providing possible class learning activities and also aiding in future energy use and carbon footprint predictions. The data collected will help refine phase 2 and 3 of the installation, expanding the system to more buildings and also giving insight to the rollout of the system to the whole school when the systems are fully in place.

  17. Evaluating Sermons: The Function of Grades in Teaching Preaching

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Helsel, Carolyn Browning

    2017-01-01

    What are grades doing in a homiletics classroom? This article traces the function of grades through the broader history of the educational system in the United States and then makes suggestions for how grades can be used more effectively in teaching preaching. Beginning in the nineteenth century, teachers used grades to rank and motivate students,…

  18. ALBI versus Child-Pugh grading systems for liver function in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Na, Seong K; Yim, Sun Y; Suh, Sang J; Jung, Young K; Kim, Ji H; Seo, Yeon S; Yim, Hyung J; Yeon, Jong E; Byun, Kwan S; Um, Soon H

    2018-04-01

    The prognostic performance of the albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as an objective method of assessing liver function was investigated. Data from 2099 patients with HCC in Korea were collected and analyzed retrospectively. The discriminative performance of ALBI grade was compared with Child-Pugh (C-P) grade for different stages or treatments. The median follow up duration was 16.2 months (range: 1.0-124.9). The median survival times were 49.7 months for C-P grade A (65.8%), 12.4 months for C-P grade B (25.5%), and 4.2 months for C-P grade C (8.6%) (P < 0.001). The median survival times were 84.2 months for ALBI grade 1 (32.8%), 25.5 months for ALBI grade 2 (53.5%), and 7.7 months for ALBI grade 3 (13.7%) (P < 0.001). In early UICC stages, ALBI grade showed better discriminative performance than C-P grade. In curative treatments, ALBI grade also showed better discriminative performance than C-P grade (Harrell's C: 0.624 (C-P grade) vs 0.667 [ALBI grade]). ALBI grade provided better prognostic performance in survival analysis and better distribution of the grades than C-P grade in HCC, suggesting that ALBI grade could be a good alternative grading system for liver function in patients with HCC. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  19. Chronic cigarette smoke causes oxidative damage and apoptosis to retinal pigmented epithelial cells in mice.

    PubMed

    Fujihara, Masashi; Nagai, Norihiro; Sussan, Thomas E; Biswal, Shyam; Handa, James T

    2008-09-01

    The purpose of this study was to determine whether mice exposed to chronic cigarette smoke develop features of early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Two month old C57Bl6 mice were exposed to either filtered air or cigarette smoke in a smoking chamber for 5 h/day, 5 days/week for 6 months. Eyes were fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde/2% paraformaldehyde and examined for ultrastructural changes by transmission electron microscopy. The contralateral eye was fixed in 2% paraformaldehyde and examined for oxidative injury to the retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) by 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) immunolabeling and apoptosis by TUNEL labeling. Mice exposed to cigarette smoke had immunolabeling for 8-OHdG in 85+/-3.7% of RPE cells counted compared to 9.5+/-3.9% in controls (p<0.00001). Bruch membrane was thicker in mice exposed to smoke (1086+/-332 nm) than those raised in air (543+/-132 nm; p = 0.0069). The two most pronounced ultrastructural changes (severity grading scale from 0-3) seen were a loss of basal infoldings (mean difference in grade = 1.98; p<0.0001), and an increase in intracellular vacuoles (mean difference in grade = 1.7; p<0.0001). Ultrastructural changes to Bruch membrane in cigarette-smoke exposed mice were smaller in magnitude but consistently demonstrated significantly higher grade injury in cigarette-exposed mice, including basal laminar deposits (mean difference in grade = 0.54; p<0.0001), increased outer collagenous layer deposits (mean difference in grade = 0.59; p = 0.002), and increased basal laminar deposit continuity (mean difference in grade = 0.4; p<0.0001). TUNEL assay showed a higher percentage of apoptotic RPE from mice exposed to cigarette smoke (average 8.0+/-1.1%) than room air (average 0+/-0%; p = 0.043). Mice exposed to chronic cigarette smoke develop evidence of oxidative damage with ultrastructural degeneration to the RPE and Bruch membrane, and RPE cell apoptosis. This model could be useful for studying the mechanism of smoke induced changes during early AMD.

  20. A comparative study of air traffic trainee aptitude-test measures involving Navy, Marine Corps and FAA controllers.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1968-09-01

    The study concerns the experimental use of several commercially-published aptitude tests and a determination of their validity as predictors of training-performance grades for more than 300 Marines and over 600 Naval students who entered a basic air-...

  1. Forecasting Expeditionary Training for Company Grade Logistics Readiness Officers: A Delphi Study

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-03-01

    how they affect transportation requirements (e.g., size of brigade vs. battalion). 0.9 3.6 0.8 2.9 20. Air Mobility Liaison Officer ( AMLO ) duties...size of brigade vs. battalion), how they affect transportation requirements, and Air Mobility Liaison Officer ( AMLO ) duties follow. The

  2. 77 FR 56632 - Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-09-13

    ...) through Chief Master Sergeant (E-9). Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve personnel grades Staff Sergeant (E-5) through Chief Master Sergeant (E- 9).'' * * * * * Retrievability: Delete entry and replace.... Electronic files are only accessed by authorized personnel with a Secure Common Access Card (CAC) and need...

  3. Designing Payloads

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kehr, Linda

    2009-01-01

    Imagine soaring in the Earth's atmosphere to near the edge of space. Is there air to breathe? Is it dark? Are there clouds? What about air pressure? Fifth-grade students from Ferguson Elementary in Klamath Falls, Oregon, were wondering these questions as they participated in "To the Edge of Space," an exciting, yearlong collaborative…

  4. Teacher's Guide to Indoor Air Pollutants.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    National Safety Council, Washington, DC. Environmental Health Center.

    This guide, designed for fourth- through sixth-grade classrooms, contains information teachers will need to teach an educational unit on indoor air quality. It draws on a variety of students' skills, including science, vocabulary, reasoning, math, and basic biology. Each lesson comes with suggested activities that highlight and reinforce what is…

  5. 77 FR 94 - Privacy Act of 1974; System of Records

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-01-03

    ... phone at (202) 404-6575. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Department of the Air Force's notices for..., Secretary of the Air Force; 22 U.S.C. 4801, Findings and purpose; 22 U.S.C. 4802, Responsibility of... contain the individual's name; rank/pay grade; military branch or department; passport number; office...

  6. Air-drying of Robusta eucalyptus lumber

    Treesearch

    Roger G. Skolmen

    1964-01-01

    A study of air-drying 4/4 Eucalyptus robusta lumber in Hilo, Hawaii showed that during typical summer weather it can be dried to below 20 percent moisture content in 2-1/2 months. Grade reduction in 36 percent of the lumber was caused by end splits, insect damage, warp, and surface checking.

  7. Optimal Substrate Preheating Model for Thermal Spray Deposition of Thermosets onto Polymer Matrix Composites

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ivosevic, M.; Knight, R.; Kalidindi, S. R.; Palmese, G. R.; Tsurikov, A.; Sutter, J. K.

    2003-01-01

    High velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) sprayed, functionally graded polyimide/WC-Co composite coatings on polymer matrix composites (PMC's) are being investigated for applications in turbine engine technologies. This requires that the polyimide, used as the matrix material, be fully crosslinked during deposition in order to maximize its engineering properties. The rapid heating and cooling nature of the HVOF spray process and the high heat flux through the coating into the substrate typically do not allow sufficient time at temperature for curing of the thermoset. It was hypothesized that external substrate preheating might enhance the deposition behavior and curing reaction during the thermal spraying of polyimide thermosets. A simple analytical process model for the deposition of thermosetting polyimide onto polymer matrix composites by HVOF thermal spray technology has been developed. The model incorporates various heat transfer mechanisms and enables surface temperature profiles of the coating to be simulated, primarily as a function of substrate preheating temperature. Four cases were modeled: (i) no substrate preheating; (ii) substrates electrically preheated from the rear; (iii) substrates preheated by hot air from the front face; and (iv) substrates electrically preheated from the rear and by hot air from the front.

  8. 40 CFR 421.226 - Pretreatment standards for new sources.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... molybdenum produced Arsenic 27.120 12.097 Chromium 7.219 2.927 Lead 5.463 2.536 Nickel 10.731 7.219 Iron 23... technical grade molybdenum plus vanadium plus pure grade molybdenum produced Arsenic 80.952 36.108 Chromium...] [Reserved] Ammonia (as N) 24114.000 10600.000 (c) Vanadium decomposition wet air pollution control. PSNS for...

  9. 40 CFR 421.226 - Pretreatment standards for new sources.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... molybdenum produced Arsenic 27.120 12.097 Chromium 7.219 2.927 Lead 5.463 2.536 Nickel 10.731 7.219 Iron 23... technical grade molybdenum plus vanadium plus pure grade molybdenum produced Arsenic 80.952 36.108 Chromium...] [Reserved] Ammonia (as N) 24114.000 10600.000 (c) Vanadium decomposition wet air pollution control. PSNS for...

  10. 40 CFR 86.522-78 - Carbon monoxide analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... performance on the most sensitive range. (2) Zero the carbon monoxide analyzer with either zero grade air or zero grade nitrogen. (3) Bubble a mixture of 3 percent CO2 in N2 through water at room temperature and... action. (Use of conditioning columns is one form of corrective action which may be taken.) (b) Initial...

  11. Academic and Nonacademic Characteristics as Predictors of Persistence in an Associate Degree Nursing Program. AIR Forum 1981 Paper.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Donsky, Aaron P.; Judge, Albert J., Jr.

    Academic and nonacademic variables that may predict persistence in the nursing program at Lakeland Community College, Ohio, were studied. The academic variables included American College Testing program standard scores, National League for Nursing (NLN) rank scores, high school grade point average, and previous college grade point average. The…

  12. Functionally Graded Adhesives for Composite Joints

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Stapleton, Scott E.; Waas, Anthony M.; Arnold, Steven M.

    2012-01-01

    Adhesives with functionally graded material properties are being considered for use in adhesively bonded joints to reduce the peel stress concentrations located near adherend discontinuities. Several practical concerns impede the actual use of such adhesives. These include increased manufacturing complications, alterations to the grading due to adhesive flow during manufacturing, and whether changing the loading conditions significantly impact the effectiveness of the grading. An analytical study is conducted to address these three concerns. An enhanced joint finite element, which uses an analytical formulation to obtain exact shape functions, is used to model the joint. Furthermore, proof of concept testing is conducted to show the potential advantages of functionally graded adhesives. In this study, grading is achieved by strategically placing glass beads within the adhesive layer at different densities along the joint.

  13. Surgical management for the first 48 h following blunt chest trauma: state of the art (excluding vascular injuries).

    PubMed

    de Lesquen, Henri; Avaro, Jean-Philippe; Gust, Lucile; Ford, Robert Michael; Beranger, Fabien; Natale, Claudia; Bonnet, Pierre-Mathieu; D'Journo, Xavier-Benoît

    2015-03-01

    This review aims to answer the most common questions in routine surgical practice during the first 48 h of blunt chest trauma (BCT) management. Two authors identified relevant manuscripts published since January 1994 to January 2014. Using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses statement, they focused on the surgical management of BCT, excluded both child and vascular injuries and selected 80 studies. Tension pneumothorax should be promptly diagnosed and treated by needle decompression closely followed with chest tube insertion (Grade D). All traumatic pneumothoraces are considered for chest tube insertion. However, observation is possible for selected patients with small unilateral pneumothoraces without respiratory disease or need for positive pressure ventilation (Grade C). Symptomatic traumatic haemothoraces or haemothoraces >500 ml should be treated by chest tube insertion (Grade D). Occult pneumothoraces and occult haemothoraces are managed by observation with daily chest X-rays (Grades B and C). Periprocedural antibiotics are used to prevent chest-tube-related infectious complications (Grade B). No sign of life at the initial assessment and cardiopulmonary resuscitation duration >10 min are considered as contraindications of Emergency Department Thoracotomy (Grade C). Damage Control Thoracotomy is performed for either massive air leakage or refractive shock or ongoing bleeding enhanced by chest tube output >1500 ml initially or >200 ml/h for 3 h (Grade D). In the case of haemodynamically stable patients, early video-assisted thoracic surgery is performed for retained haemothoraces (Grade B). Fixation of flail chest can be considered if mechanical ventilation for 48 h is probably required (Grade B). Fixation of sternal fractures is performed for displaced fractures with overlap or comminution, intractable pain or respiratory insufficiency (Grade D). Lung herniation, traumatic diaphragmatic rupture and pericardial rupture are life-threatening situations requiring prompt diagnosis and surgical advice. (Grades C and D). Tracheobronchial repair is mandatory in cases of tracheal tear >2 cm, oesophageal prolapse, mediastinitis or massive air leakage (Grade C). These evidence-based surgical indications for BCT management should support protocols for chest trauma management. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

  14. Assessment of Diastolic Function in Single Ventricle Patients Following the Fontan Procedure

    PubMed Central

    Margossian, Renee; Sleeper, Lynn A.; Pearson, Gail D.; Barker, Piers C.; Mertens, Luc; Quartermain, Michael D.; Su, Jason T.; Shirali, Girish; Chen, Shan; Colan, Steven D.

    2016-01-01

    Objectives Patients with functional single ventricles (FSV) following the Fontan procedure have abnormal cardiac mechanics. We sought to determine factors that influence diastolic function and to describe associations of diastolic function with current clinical status. Methods Echocardiograms were obtained as part of the Pediatric Heart Network Fontan Cross-Sectional Study. Diastolic function grade (DFG) was assessed as normal (grade 0), impaired relaxation (grade 1), pseudonormalization (grade 2), restrictive (grade 3). Studies were also classified dichotomously (restrictive pattern present or absent). Relationships between DFG and pre-Fontan variables (e.g., ventricular morphology, age at Fontan, history of volume-unloading surgery), and current status (e.g., systolic function, valvar regurgitation, exercise performance) were explored. Results DFG was calculable in 326/546 subjects (60%); mean age = 11.7±3.3 years. Overall, 32% of patients had grade 0, 9% grade 1, 37% grade 2, and 22% grade 3. Although there was no association between ventricular morphology and DFG, there was an association between ventricular morphology and E’, which was lowest in those with right ventricular morphology (p<.001); this association remained significant when using z-scores adjusted for age (p=<.001). DFG was associated with achieving maximal effort on exercise testing (p=.004); the majority (64%) of those not achieving maximal effort had DFG 2 or 3.No additional significant associations of DFG with laboratory or clinical measures were identified. Conclusion Assessment of diastolic function by current algorithms results in a high percentage of patients with abnormal DFG, but we found few clinically or statistically significant associations. This may imply a lack of impact of abnormal diastolic function upon clinical outcome in this cohort, or may indicate that the methodology may not be applicable to pediatric FSV patients. PMID:27624592

  15. Evaluating the Adsoptive Capacities of Chemsorb 1000 and Chemsorb 1425

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Monje, Oscar Alberto; Surma, Jan M.; Johnsey, Marissa N.; Melendez, Orlando

    2014-01-01

    The Air Revitalization Lab at KSC tested Chemsorb 1000 and 1425, two candidate sorbents for use in future air revitalization technologies being evaluated by the ARREM project. Chemsorb 1000 and 1425 are granular coconut-shell activated carbon sorbents produced by Molecular Products, Inc. that may be used in the TCCS. Chemsorb 1000 is a high grade activated carbon for organic vapor adsorption. In contrast, Chemsorb 1425 is a high-grade impregnated activated carbon for adsorption of airborne ammonia and amines. Chemsorb 1000 was challenged with simulated spacecraft gas streams in order to determine its adsorptive capacities for mixtures of volatile organics compounds. Chemsorb 1425 was challenged with various NH3 concentrations to determine its adsorptive capacity.

  16. Evaluating the Adsorptive Capacities of Chemsorb 1000 and Chemsorb 1425

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Monje, Oscar Alberto Monje; Surma, Jan M.; Johnsey, Marissa N.; Melendez, Orlando

    2014-01-01

    The Air Revitalization Lab at KSC tested Chemsorb 1000 and 1425, two candidate sorbents for use in future air revitalization technologies being evaluated by the ARREM project. Chemsorb 1000 and 1425 are granular coconut-shell activated carbon sorbents produced by Molecular Products, Inc. that may be used in the TCCS. Chemsorb 1000 is a high grade activated carbon for organic vapor adsorption. In contrast, Chemsorb 1425 is a high-grade impregnated activated carbon for adsorption of airborne ammonia and amines. Chemsorb 1000 was challenged with simulated spacecraft gas streams in order to determine its adsorptive capacities for mixtures of volatile organics compounds. Chemsorb 1425 was challenged with various NH3 concentrations to determine its adsorptive capacity.

  17. Generalized Constitutive-Based Theoretical and Empirical Models for Hot Working Behavior of Functionally Graded Steels

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vanini, Seyed Ali Sadough; Abolghasemzadeh, Mohammad; Assadi, Abbas

    2013-07-01

    Functionally graded steels with graded ferritic and austenitic regions including bainite and martensite intermediate layers produced by electroslag remelting have attracted much attention in recent years. In this article, an empirical model based on the Zener-Hollomon (Z-H) constitutive equation with generalized material constants is presented to investigate the effects of temperature and strain rate on the hot working behavior of functionally graded steels. Next, a theoretical model, generalized by strain compensation, is developed for the flow stress estimation of functionally graded steels under hot compression based on the phase mixture rule and boundary layer characteristics. The model is used for different strains and grading configurations. Specifically, the results for αβγMγ steels from empirical and theoretical models showed excellent agreement with those of experiments of other references within acceptable error.

  18. 42 CFR 84.141 - Breathing gas; minimum requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... respirators shall be respirable breathing air and contain no less than 19.5 volume-percent of oxygen. (b... Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from American..._locations.html. (c) Compressed, liquefied breathing air shall meet the applicable minimum grade requirements...

  19. What's on Your Radar Screen? Distance-Rate-Time Problems from NASA

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Condon, Gregory W.; Landesman, Miriam F.; Calasanz-Kaiser, Agnes

    2006-01-01

    This article features NASA's FlyBy Math, a series of six standards-based distance-rate-time investigations in air traffic control. Sixth-grade students--acting as pilots, air traffic controllers, and NASA scientists--conduct an experiment and then use multiple mathematical representations to analyze and solve a problem involving two planes flying…

  20. An Analysis of Global Problems Issues in Sixth and Seventh Grade Science Textbooks.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hamm, Mary; Adams, Dennis

    The study examines the extent to which the global issues of population growth, world hunger, air quality and atmosphere, and water resources were treated in sixth and seventh grade science textbooks. Ten textbooks were examined by five raters to determine the amount of content presented by different textbooks on global issues, the number of pages…

  1. The Contribution of Executive Functions to Narrative Writing in Fourth Grade Children

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Drijbooms, Elise; Groen, Margriet A.; Verhoeven, Ludo

    2015-01-01

    The present study investigated the contribution of executive functions to narrative writing in fourth grade children, and evaluated to what extent executive functions contribute differentially to different levels of narrative composition. The written skills of 102 Dutch children in fourth grade were assessed using a narrative picture-elicitation…

  2. Configuration of Air Microfluidic Chip for Separating and Grading Respirable Dust

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Xiaofeng; Jia, Yiting; Sun, Jianhai; Zhao, Peiyue; Liu, Jinhua; Zhang, Yanni; Ning, Zhanwu

    2018-03-01

    Particulate matter (PM) is a category of airborne pollutants, and fine particles that have a diameter of 2.5 μm (PM2.5) or smaller are especially damaging to human health because of their ability to penetrate deep into our respiratory system, Therefore, Monitoring of PM is very important. In this work, an air micro- fluidic PM sensor based on MEMS was proposed, and numerical model of the sensor was simulated accurately. The sensor was able to separate particles according to their sizes, and then transports and deposits the selected particles using thermophoretic precipitation onto the surface of a microfabricated mass-sensitive film bulk acoustic resonator (FBAR), precisely weighing and providing the concentration of PM. The PM sensor has double stage separation function, and the primary separator can separate the particles with size of less 10 μm from the particles, and the secondary can separate particles with size of less 2.5 μm from the particles.

  3. Geothermally Coupled Well-Based Compressed Air Energy Storage

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

    Davidson, Casie L.; Bearden, Mark D.; Horner, Jacob A.

    2015-12-20

    Previous work by McGrail et al. (2013, 2015) has evaluated the possibility of pairing compressed air energy storage with geothermal resources in lieu of a fossil-fired power generation component, and suggests that such applications may be cost competitive where geology is favorable to siting both the geothermal and CAES components of such a system. Those studies also note that the collocation of subsurface resources that meet both sets of requirements are difficult to find in areas that also offer infrastructure and near- to mid-term market demand for energy storage. This study examines a novel application for the compressed air storagemore » portion of the project by evaluating the potential to store compressed air in disused wells by amending well casings to serve as subsurface pressure vessels. Because the wells themselves would function in lieu of a geologic storage reservoir for the CAES element of the project, siting could focus on locations with suitable geothermal resources, as long as there was also existing wellfield infrastructure that could be repurposed for air storage. Existing wellfields abound in the United States, and with current low energy prices, many recently productive fields are now shut in. Should energy prices remain stagnant, these idle fields will be prime candidates for decommissioning unless they can be transitioned to other uses, such as redevelopment for energy storage. In addition to the nation’s ubiquitous oil and gas fields, geothermal fields, because of their phased production lifetimes, also may offer many abandoned wellbores that could be used for other purposes, often near currently productive geothermal resources. These existing fields offer an opportunity to decrease exploration and development uncertainty by leveraging data developed during prior field characterization, drilling, and production. They may also offer lower-cost deployment options for hybrid geothermal systems via redevelopment of existing well-field infrastructure. This project assessed the technical and economic feasibility of implementing geothermally coupled well-based CAES for grid-scale energy storage. Based on an evaluation of design specifications for a range of casing grades common in U.S. oil and gas fields, a 5-MW CAES project could be supported by twenty to twenty-five 5,000-foot, 7-inch wells using lower-grade casing, and as few as eight such wells for higher-end casing grades. Using this information, along with data on geothermal resources, well density, and potential future markets for energy storage systems, The Geysers geothermal field was selected to parameterize a case study to evaluate the potential match between the proven geothermal resource present at The Geysers and the field’s existing well infrastructure. Based on calculated wellbore compressed air mass, the study shows that a single average geothermal production well could provide enough geothermal energy to support a 15.4-MW (gross) power generation facility using 34 to 35 geothermal wells repurposed for compressed air storage, resulting in a simplified levelized cost of electricity (sLCOE) estimated at 11.2 ¢/kWh (Table S.1). Accounting for the power loss to the geothermal power project associated with diverting geothermal resources for air heating results in a net 2-MW decrease in generation capacity, increasing the CAES project’s sLCOE by 1.8 ¢/kWh.« less

  4. Assessment of Liver Function in Patients With Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A New Evidence-Based Approach—The ALBI Grade

    PubMed Central

    Johnson, Philip J.; Berhane, Sarah; Kagebayashi, Chiaki; Satomura, Shinji; Teng, Mabel; Reeves, Helen L.; O'Beirne, James; Fox, Richard; Skowronska, Anna; Palmer, Daniel; Yeo, Winnie; Mo, Frankie; Lai, Paul; Iñarrairaegui, Mercedes; Chan, Stephen L.; Sangro, Bruno; Miksad, Rebecca; Tada, Toshifumi; Kumada, Takashi; Toyoda, Hidenori

    2015-01-01

    Purpose Most patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have associated chronic liver disease, the severity of which is currently assessed by the Child-Pugh (C-P) grade. In this international collaboration, we identify objective measures of liver function/dysfunction that independently influence survival in patients with HCC and then combine these into a model that could be compared with the conventional C-P grade. Patients and Methods We developed a simple model to assess liver function, based on 1,313 patients with HCC of all stages from Japan, that involved only serum bilirubin and albumin levels. We then tested the model using similar cohorts from other geographical regions (n = 5,097) and other clinical situations (patients undergoing resection [n = 525] or sorafenib treatment for advanced HCC [n = 1,132]). The specificity of the model for liver (dys)function was tested in patients with chronic liver disease but without HCC (n = 501). Results The model, the Albumin-Bilirubin (ALBI) grade, performed at least as well as the C-P grade in all geographic regions. The majority of patients with HCC had C-P grade A disease at presentation, and within this C-P grade, ALBI revealed two classes with clearly different prognoses. Its utility in patients with chronic liver disease alone supported the contention that the ALBI grade was indeed an index of liver (dys)function. Conclusion The ALBI grade offers a simple, evidence-based, objective, and discriminatory method of assessing liver function in HCC that has been extensively tested in an international setting. This new model eliminates the need for subjective variables such as ascites and encephalopathy, a requirement in the conventional C-P grade. PMID:25512453

  5. Environmental Assessment Realignment of the Air Force Reserve 940th Air Refueling Group to McClellan Air Force Base, California

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-03-01

    Construction activities for the Proposed Action and alternatives would take place on a concrete aircraft parking apron, or on areas previously disturbed by...activities for the Proposed Action would take place on a concrete aircraft parking apron, or areas previously disturbed by past grading activities, except...therefore, no significant impacts would occur. Biological Resources. No threatened or endangered species or sensitive habitats exist within the project areas

  6. 40 CFR 91.312 - Analytical gases.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ...) Purified nitrogen, also referred to as “zero-grade nitrogen” (Contamination≤1 ppm C, ≤1 ppm CO, ≤400 ppm... percent hydrogen, balance helium) (Contamination≤1 ppm C, ≤400 ppm CO) (4) Purified synthetic air, also... must be available: C3 H8 and purified synthetic air (dilute measurements); C3 H8 and purified nitrogen...

  7. Transporting Students into Thin Air: Using Science to Enhance Reading

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bricker, Patricia; Rogowski, Nick; Hedt, Melissa; Rolfe, Nadeen

    2010-01-01

    The "Into Thin Air" unit, based on the book by Jon Krakauer, was designed as an interdisciplinary unit for a small group of academically gifted sixth-grade students. It included hands-on, minds-on activities that would immerse students in the scientific, social, and personal struggles people face while attempting to climb the world's tallest…

  8. Global Change. Teaching Activities on Global Change for Grades 4-6.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Geological Survey (Dept. of Interior), Reston, VA.

    This packet contains a series of teaching guides on global change. The series includes lessons on dendrochronology; land, air, and water; and island living. Included is information such as : laws of straws; where land, air, and water meet; and Earth as home. Each section provides an introductory description of the activity, the purpose of the…

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

    none,

    The builder worked with Building Science Corporation to design ten HERS 53 homes with ICF foundations, foam-sheathed above-grade walls, and high-efficiency furnaces with fresh air intake and jump ducts.

  10. The Ottawa panel clinical practice guidelines for the management of knee osteoarthritis. Part one: introduction, and mind-body exercise programs.

    PubMed

    Brosseau, Lucie; Taki, Jade; Desjardins, Brigit; Thevenot, Odette; Fransen, Marlene; Wells, George A; Imoto, Aline Mizusaki; Toupin-April, Karine; Westby, Marie; Gallardo, Inmaculada C Álvarez; Gifford, Wendy; Laferrière, Lucie; Rahman, Prinon; Loew, Laurianne; Angelis, Gino De; Cavallo, Sabrina; Shallwani, Shirin Mehdi; Aburub, Ala'; Bennell, Kim L; Van der Esch, Martin; Simic, Milena; McConnell, Sara; Harmer, Alison; Kenny, Glen P; Paterson, Gail; Regnaux, Jean-Philippe; Lefevre-Colau, Marie-Martine; McLean, Linda

    2017-05-01

    To identify effective mind-body exercise programs and provide clinicians and patients with updated, high-quality recommendations concerning non-traditional land-based exercises for knee osteoarthritis. A systematic search and adapted selection criteria included comparative controlled trials with mind-body exercise programs for patients with knee osteoarthritis. A panel of experts reached consensus on the recommendations using a Delphi survey. A hierarchical alphabetical grading system (A, B, C+, C, D, D+, D-) was used, based on statistical significance ( P < 0.5) and clinical importance (⩾15% improvement). The four high-quality studies identified demonstrated that various mind-body exercise programs are promising for improving the management of knee osteoarthritis. Hatha Yoga demonstrated significant improvement for pain relief (Grade B) and physical function (Grade C+). Tai Chi Qigong demonstrated significant improvement for quality of life (Grade B), pain relief (Grade C+) and physical function (Grade C+). Sun style Tai Chi gave significant improvement for pain relief (Grade B) and physical function (Grade B). Mind-body exercises are promising approaches to reduce pain, as well as to improve physical function and quality of life for individuals with knee osteoarthritis.

  11. Impact of fine particulate fluctuation and other variables on Beijing's air quality index.

    PubMed

    Chen, Bo; Lu, Shaowei; Li, Shaoning; Wang, Bing

    2015-04-01

    We analyzed fluctuation in Beijing's air quality over 328 days, based on air quality grades and air quality data from 35 atmospheric monitoring stations. Our results show the air over Beijing is subject to pollution 152 days of the year, or 46.34%. Among all pollutants, fine particulates, solid or liquid, 2.5 μm or less in size (PM2.5), appeared most frequently as the primary pollutant: 249 days, or 76% of the sample year (328 days). Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and coarse particulates (PM10) cause the least pollution, appearing only 7 and 3 days, or 2 and 1% of the sample year, respectively. In Beijing, fine particulates like PM2.5 vary seasonally: 154.54 ± 18.60 in winter > 145.22 ± 18.61 in spring > 140.16 ± 20.76 in autumn > 122.37 ± 13.42 in summer. Air quality is best in August and worst in December, while various districts in Beijing experience different air quality. To be specific, from south to north and from west to east, air quality tends to improve. Meteorological elements have a constraining effect on air pollutants, which means there is a linear correlation between the air quality index and humidity, rainfall, wind speed, and temperature. Under a typical pollution scenario, the higher the air quality index (AQI) value, the lower the wind speed and the greater the relative humidity; the lower the AQI value, the higher the wind speed and lower the relative humidity. Analysis of influencing factors reveals that the air pollution is mainly particulate matter produced by burning coal, vehicle emissions, volatile oils and gas, fast development of food services, emissions from the surrounding region, and natural dust clouds formed in arid areas to the northwest. Topography affects the distribution of meteorological conditions, in turn varying air quality over the region from one location to another. Human activities also exercise impact on urban air quality with dual functions.

  12. Gender, airborne chemical monitoring, and physical work environment are related to indoor air symptoms among nonindustrial workers in the Klang Valley, Malaysia

    PubMed Central

    Syazwan, Aizat Ismail; Hafizan, Juahir; Baharudin, Mohd Rafee; Azman, Ahmad Zaid Fattah; Izwyn, Zulkapri; Zulfadhli, Ismail; Syahidatussyakirah, Katis

    2013-01-01

    Objectives: The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship of airborne chemicals and the physical work environment risk element on the indoor air symptoms of nonindustrial workers. Design: A cross-sectional study consisting of 200 office workers. A random selection of 200 buildings was analyzed for exposure and indoor air symptoms based on a pilot study in the Klang Valley, Malaysia. Methods: A set of modified published questionnaires by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), Malaysia and a previous study (MM040NA questionnaire) pertaining to indoor air symptoms was used in the evaluation process of the indoor air symptoms. Statistical analyses involving logistic regression and linear regression were used to determine the relationship between exposure and indoor air symptoms for use in the development of an indoor risk matrix. Results: The results indicate that some indoor air pollutants (carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, total volatile organic compound, and dust) are related to indoor air symptoms of men and women. Temperature and relative humidity showed a positive association with complaints related to the perceived indoor environmental condition (drafts and inconsistency of temperature). Men predominantly reported general symptoms when stratification of gender involved exposure to formaldehyde. Women reported high levels of complaints related to mucosal and general symptoms from exposure to the dust level indoors. Conclusion: Exposure to pollutants (total volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde) and physical stressors (air temperature and relative humidity) influence reported symptoms of office workers. These parameters should be focused upon and graded as one of the important elements in the grading procedure when qualitatively evaluating the indoor environment. PMID:23526736

  13. Gender, airborne chemical monitoring, and physical work environment are related to indoor air symptoms among nonindustrial workers in the Klang Valley, Malaysia.

    PubMed

    Syazwan, Aizat Ismail; Hafizan, Juahir; Baharudin, Mohd Rafee; Azman, Ahmad Zaid Fattah; Izwyn, Zulkapri; Zulfadhli, Ismail; Syahidatussyakirah, Katis

    2013-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to analyze the relationship of airborne chemicals and the physical work environment risk element on the indoor air symptoms of nonindustrial workers. A cross-sectional study consisting of 200 office workers. A random selection of 200 buildings was analyzed for exposure and indoor air symptoms based on a pilot study in the Klang Valley, Malaysia. A set of modified published questionnaires by the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH), Malaysia and a previous study (MM040NA questionnaire) pertaining to indoor air symptoms was used in the evaluation process of the indoor air symptoms. Statistical analyses involving logistic regression and linear regression were used to determine the relationship between exposure and indoor air symptoms for use in the development of an indoor risk matrix. The results indicate that some indoor air pollutants (carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, total volatile organic compound, and dust) are related to indoor air symptoms of men and women. Temperature and relative humidity showed a positive association with complaints related to the perceived indoor environmental condition (drafts and inconsistency of temperature). Men predominantly reported general symptoms when stratification of gender involved exposure to formaldehyde. Women reported high levels of complaints related to mucosal and general symptoms from exposure to the dust level indoors. Exposure to pollutants (total volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, and formaldehyde) and physical stressors (air temperature and relative humidity) influence reported symptoms of office workers. These parameters should be focused upon and graded as one of the important elements in the grading procedure when qualitatively evaluating the indoor environment.

  14. The Ottawa panel clinical practice guidelines for the management of knee osteoarthritis. Part two: strengthening exercise programs.

    PubMed

    Brosseau, Lucie; Taki, Jade; Desjardins, Brigit; Thevenot, Odette; Fransen, Marlene; Wells, George A; Mizusaki Imoto, Aline; Toupin-April, Karine; Westby, Marie; Álvarez Gallardo, Inmaculada C; Gifford, Wendy; Laferrière, Lucie; Rahman, Prinon; Loew, Laurianne; De Angelis, Gino; Cavallo, Sabrina; Shallwani, Shirin Mehdi; Aburub, Ala'; Bennell, Kim L; Van der Esch, Martin; Simic, Milena; McConnell, Sara; Harmer, Alison; Kenny, Glen P; Paterson, Gail; Regnaux, Jean-Philippe; Lefevre-Colau, Marie-Martine; McLean, Linda

    2017-05-01

    To identify effective strengthening exercise programs and provide rehabilitation teams and patients with updated, high-quality recommendations concerning traditional land-based exercises for knee osteoarthritis. A systematic search and adapted selection criteria included comparative controlled trials with strengthening exercise programs for patients with knee osteoarthritis. A panel of experts reached consensus on the recommendations using a Delphi survey. A hierarchical alphabetical grading system (A, B, C+, C, D, D+ or D-) was based on statistical significance ( p < 0.5) and clinical importance (⩾15% improvement). The 26 high-quality studies identified demonstrated that various strengthening exercise programs with/without other types of therapeutic exercises are generally effective for improving knee osteoarthritis management within a six-month period. Strengthening exercise programs demonstrated a significant improvement for pain relief (four Grade A, ten Grade B, two Grade C+), physical function (four Grade A, eight Grade B) and quality of life (three Grade B). Strengthening in combination with other types of exercises (coordination, balance, functional) showed a significant improvement in pain relief (three Grade A, 11 Grade B, eight Grade C+), physical function (two Grade A, four Grade B, three Grade C+) and quality of life (one Grade A, one Grade C+). There are a variety of choices for strengthening exercise programs with positive recommendations for healthcare professionals and knee osteoarthritis patients. There is a need to develop combined behavioral and muscle-strengthening strategies to improve long-term maintenance of regular strengthening exercise programs.

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

    Dag, Serkan; Yildirim, Bora; Sabuncuoglu, Baris

    The objective of this study is to develop crack growth analysis methods for functionally graded materials (FGMs) subjected to mode I cyclic loading. The study presents finite elements based computational procedures for both two and three dimensional problems to examine fatigue crack growth in functionally graded materials. Developed methods allow the computation of crack length and generation of crack front profile for a graded medium subjected to fluctuating stresses. The results presented for an elliptical crack embedded in a functionally graded medium, illustrate the competing effects of ellipse aspect ratio and material property gradation on the fatigue crack growth behavior.

  16. Functionally graded Ti6Al4V and Inconel 625 by Laser Metal Deposition

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pulugurtha, Syamala R.

    The objective of the current work was to fabricate a crack-free functionally graded Ti6Al4V and Inconel 625 thin wall structure by Laser Metal Deposition (LMD). One potential application for the current material system is the ability to fabricate a functionally graded alloy that can be used in a space heat exchanger. The two alloys, Inconel 625 and Ti6Al4V are currently used for aerospace applications. They were chosen as candidates for grading because functionally grading those combines the properties of high strength/weight ratio of Ti6Al4V and high temperature oxidation resistance of Inconel 625 into one multifunctional material for the end application. However, there were challenges associated with the presence of Ni-Ti intermetallic phases (IMPs). The study focused on several critical areas such as (1) understanding microstructural evolution, (2) reducing macroscopic cracking, and (3) reducing mixing between graded layers. Finite element analysis (FEA) was performed to understand the effect of process conditions on multilayer claddings for simplified material systems such as SS316L and Inconel 625 where complex microstructures did not form. The thermo-mechanical models were developed using Abaqus(TM) (and some of them experimentally verified) to predict temperature-gradients; remelt layer depths and residual stresses. Microstructure evolution along the functionally graded Ti6Al4V and Inconel 625 was studied under different processing and grading conditions. Thermodynamic modeling using Factsage (v 6.1) was used to construct phase diagrams and predict the possible equilibrium major/minor phases (verified experimentally by XRD) that may be present along the functionally graded Ti6Al4V and Inconel 625 thin wall structures.

  17. Higher-Order Theory for Functionally Graded Materials

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Aboudi, Jacob; Pindera, Marek-Jerzy; Arnold, Steven M.

    1999-01-01

    This paper presents the full generalization of the Cartesian coordinate-based higher-order theory for functionally graded materials developed by the authors during the past several years. This theory circumvents the problematic use of the standard micromechanical approach, based on the concept of a representative volume element, commonly employed in the analysis of functionally graded composites by explicitly coupling the local (microstructural) and global (macrostructural) responses. The theoretical framework is based on volumetric averaging of the various field quantities, together with imposition of boundary and interfacial conditions in an average sense between the subvolumes used to characterize the composite's functionally graded microstructure. The generalization outlined herein involves extension of the theoretical framework to enable the analysis of materials characterized by spatially variable microstructures in three directions. Specialization of the generalized theoretical framework to previously published versions of the higher-order theory for materials functionally graded in one and two directions is demonstrated. In the applications part of the paper we summarize the major findings obtained with the one-directional and two-directional versions of the higher-order theory. The results illustrate both the fundamental issues related to the influence of microstructure on microscopic and macroscopic quantities governing the response of composites and the technologically important applications. A major issue addressed herein is the applicability of the classical homogenization schemes in the analysis of functionally graded materials. The technologically important applications illustrate the utility of functionally graded microstructures in tailoring the response of structural components in a variety of applications involving uniform and gradient thermomechanical loading.

  18. Aeroelastic Tailoring of a Plate Wing with Functionally Graded Materials

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Dunning, Peter D.; Stanford, Bret K.; Kim, H. Alicia; Jutte, Christine V.

    2014-01-01

    This work explores the use of functionally graded materials for the aeroelastic tailoring of a metallic cantilevered plate-like wing. Pareto trade-off curves between dynamic stability (flutter) and static aeroelastic stresses are obtained for a variety of grading strategies. A key comparison is between the effectiveness of material grading, geometric grading (i.e., plate thickness variations), and using both simultaneously. The introduction of material grading does, in some cases, improve the aeroelastic performance. This improvement, and the physical mechanism upon which it is based, depends on numerous factors: the two sets of metallic material parameters used for grading, the sweep of the plate, the aspect ratio of the plate, and whether the material is graded continuously or discretely.

  19. Domain General Mediators of the Relation between Kindergarten Number Sense and First-Grade Mathematics Achievement

    PubMed Central

    Hassinger-Das, Brenna; Jordan, Nancy C.; Glutting, Joseph; Irwin, Casey; Dyson, Nancy

    2013-01-01

    Domain general skills that mediate the relation between kindergarten number sense and first-grade mathematics skills were investigated. Participants were 107 children who displayed low number sense in the fall of kindergarten. Controlling for background variables, multiple regression analyses showed that attention problems and executive functioning both were unique predictors of mathematics outcomes. Attention problems were more important for predicting first-grade calculation performance while executive functioning was more important for predicting first-grade performance on applied problems. Moreover, both executive functioning and attention problems were unique partial mediators of the relationship between kindergarten and first-grade mathematics skills. The results provide empirical support for developing interventions that target executive functioning and attention problems in addition to instruction in number skills for kindergartners with initial low number sense. PMID:24237789

  20. Domain-general mediators of the relation between kindergarten number sense and first-grade mathematics achievement.

    PubMed

    Hassinger-Das, Brenna; Jordan, Nancy C; Glutting, Joseph; Irwin, Casey; Dyson, Nancy

    2014-02-01

    Domain-general skills that mediate the relation between kindergarten number sense and first-grade mathematics skills were investigated. Participants were 107 children who displayed low number sense in the fall of kindergarten. Controlling for background variables, multiple regression analyses showed that both attention problems and executive functioning were unique predictors of mathematics outcomes. Attention problems were more important for predicting first-grade calculation performance, whereas executive functioning was more important for predicting first-grade performance on applied problems. Moreover, both executive functioning and attention problems were unique partial mediators of the relationship between kindergarten and first-grade mathematics skills. The results provide empirical support for developing interventions that target executive functioning and attention problems in addition to instruction in number skills for kindergartners with initial low number sense. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  1. Respiratory responses of the air-breathing fish Hoplosternum littorale to hypoxia and hydrogen sulfide.

    PubMed

    Affonso, E G; Rantin, F T

    2005-07-01

    The present study analyzes the respiratory responses of the neotropical air-breathing fish Hoplosternum littorale to graded hypoxia and increased sulfide concentrations. The oxygen uptake (VO2), critical O2 tension (PcO2), respiratory (fR) and air-breathing (fRA) frequencies in response to graded hypoxia were determined for fish acclimated to 28 degrees C. H. littorale was able to maintain a constant VO2 down to a PcO2 of 50 mm Hg, below which fish became dependent on the environmental O2 even with significant increases in fR. The fRA was kept constant around 1 breath h(-1) above 50 mm Hg and increased significantly below 40 mm Hg, reaching maximum values (about 4.5 breaths h(-1)) at 10 mm Hg. The lethality to sulfide concentrations under normoxic and hypoxic conditions were also determined along with the fRA. For the normoxic fish the sulfide lethal limit was about 70 microM, while in the hypoxic ones this limit increased to 87 muM. The high sulfide tolerance of H. littorale may be attributed to the air-breathing capability, which is stimulated by this compound.

  2. Ottawa Panel evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for therapeutic exercise in the management of hip osteoarthritis.

    PubMed

    Brosseau, Lucie; Wells, George A; Pugh, Arlanna G; Smith, Christine Am; Rahman, Prinon; Àlvarez Gallardo, Inmaculada C; Toupin-April, Karine; Loew, Laurianne; De Angelis, Gino; Cavallo, Sabrina; Taki, Jade; Marcotte, Rachel; Fransen, Marlene; Hernandez-Molina, Gabriela; Kenny, Glen P; Regnaux, Jean-Philippe; Lefevre-Colau, Marie-Martine; Brooks, Sydney; Laferriere, Lucie; McLean, Linda; Longchamp, Guy

    2016-10-01

    The primary objective is to identify effective land-based therapeutic exercise interventions and provide evidence-based recommendations for managing hip osteoarthritis. A secondary objective is to develop an Ottawa Panel evidence-based clinical practice guideline for hip osteoarthritis. The search strategy and modified selection criteria from a Cochrane review were used. Studies included hip osteoarthritis patients in comparative controlled trials with therapeutic exercise interventions. An Expert Panel arrived at a Delphi survey consensus to endorse the recommendations. The Ottawa Panel hierarchical alphabetical grading system (A, B, C+, C, D, D+, or D-) considered the study design (level I: randomized controlled trial and level II: controlled clinical trial), statistical significance (p < 0.5), and clinical importance (⩾15% improvement). Four high-quality studies were included, which demonstrated that variations of strength training, stretching, and flexibility exercises are generally effective for improving the management of hip osteoarthritis. Strength training exercises displayed the greatest improvements for pain (Grade A), disability (Grades A and C+), physical function (Grade A), stiffness (Grade A), and range of motion (Grade A) within a short time period (8-24 weeks). Stretching also greatly improved physical function (Grade A), and flexibility exercises improved pain (Grade A), range of motion (Grade A), physical function (Grade A), and stiffness (Grade C+). The Ottawa Panel recommends land-based therapeutic exercise, notably strength training, for management of hip osteoarthritis in reducing pain, stiffness and self-reported disability, and improving physical function and range of motion. © The Author(s) 2015.

  3. Specific features of after-school program quality: associations with children's functioning in middle childhood.

    PubMed

    Pierce, Kim M; Bolt, Daniel M; Vandell, Deborah Lowe

    2010-06-01

    This longitudinal study examined associations between three after-school program quality features (positive staff-child relations, available activities, programming flexibility) and child developmental outcomes (reading and math grades, work habits, and social skills with peers) in Grade 2 and then Grade 3. Participants (n = 120 in Grade 2, n = 91 in Grade 3) attended after-school programs more than 4 days per week, on average. Controlling for child and family background factors and children's prior functioning on the developmental outcomes, positive staff-child relations in the programs were positively associated with children's reading grades in both Grades 2 and 3, and math grades in Grade 2. Positive staff-child relations also were positively associated with social skills in Grade 2, for boys only. The availability of a diverse array of age-appropriate activities at the programs was positively associated with children's math grades and classroom work habits in Grade 3. Programming flexibility (child choice of activities) was not associated with child outcomes.

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

    Davidson, C L; Bearden, Mark D; Horner, Jacob A

    Previous work by McGrail et al. (2013, 2015) has evaluated the possibility of pairing compressed air energy storage with geothermal resources in lieu of a fossil-fired power generation component, and suggests that such applications may be cost competitive where geology is favorable to siting both the geothermal and CAES components of such a system. Those studies also note that the collocation of subsurface resources that meet both sets of requirements are difficult to find in areas that also offer infrastructure and near- to mid-term market demand for energy storage. This study examines a novel application for the compressed air storagemore » portion of the project by evaluating the potential to store compressed air in disused wells by amending well casings to serve as subsurface pressure vessels. Because the wells themselves would function in lieu of a geologic storage reservoir for the CAES element of the project, siting could focus on locations with suitable geothermal resources, as long as there was also existing wellfield infrastructure that could be repurposed for air storage. Existing wellfields abound in the United States, and with current low energy prices, many recently productive fields are now shut in. Should energy prices remain stagnant, these idle fields will be prime candidates for decommissioning unless they can be transitioned to other uses, such as redevelopment for energy storage. In addition to the nation’s ubiquitous oil and gas fields, geothermal fields, because of their phased production lifetimes, also may offer many abandoned wellbores that could be used for other purposes, often near currently productive geothermal resources. These existing fields offer an opportunity to decrease exploration and development uncertainty by leveraging data developed during prior field characterization, drilling, and production. They may also offer lower-cost deployment options for hybrid geothermal systems via redevelopment of existing well-field infrastructure. This project assessed the technical and economic feasibility of implementing geothermally coupled well-based CAES for grid-scale energy storage. Based on an evaluation of design specifications for a range of casing grades common in U.S. oil and gas fields, a 5-MW CAES project could be supported by twenty to twenty-five 5,000-foot, 7-inch wells using lower-grade casing, and as few as eight such wells for higher-end casing grades. Using this information, along with data on geothermal resources, well density, and potential future markets for energy storage systems, The Geysers geothermal field was selected to parameterize a case study to evaluate the potential match between the proven geothermal resource present at The Geysers and the field’s existing well infrastructure. Based on calculated wellbore compressed air mass, the study shows that a single average geothermal production well could provide enough geothermal energy to support a 15.4-MW (gross) power generation facility using 34 to 35 geothermal wells repurposed for compressed air storage, resulting in a simplified levelized cost of electricity (sLCOE) estimated at 11.2 ¢/kWh (Table S.1). Accounting for the power loss to the geothermal power project associated with diverting geothermal resources for air heating results in a net 2-MW decrease in generation capacity, increasing the CAES project’s sLCOE by 1.8 ¢/kWh.« less

  5. Topology optimized design of functionally graded piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rubio, Wilfredo Montealegre; Buiochi, Flávio; Adamowski, Julio Cezar; Silva, Emílio C. N.

    2010-01-01

    This work presents a new approach to systematically design piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers based on Topology Optimization Method (TOM) and Functionally Graded Material (FGM) concepts. The main goal is to find the optimal material distribution of Functionally Graded Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Transducers, to achieve the following requirements: (i) the transducer must be designed to have a multi-modal or uni-modal frequency response, which defines the kind of generated acoustic wave, either short pulse or continuous wave, respectively; (ii) the transducer is required to oscillate in a thickness extensional mode or piston-like mode, aiming at acoustic wave generation applications. Two kinds of piezoelectric materials are mixed for producing the FGM transducer. Material type 1 represents a PZT-5A piezoelectric ceramic and material type 2 represents a PZT-5H piezoelectric ceramic. To illustrate the proposed method, two Functionally Graded Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Transducers are designed. The TOM has shown to be a useful tool for designing Functionally Graded Piezoelectric Ultrasonic Transducers with uni-modal or multi-modal dynamic behavior.

  6. Socioeconomic inequalities in physical and mental functioning of British, Finnish, and Japanese civil servants: role of job demand, control, and work hours.

    PubMed

    Sekine, Michikazu; Chandola, Tarani; Martikainen, Pekka; Marmot, Michael; Kagamimori, Sadanobu

    2009-11-01

    This study aims to evaluate whether the pattern of socioeconomic inequalities in physical and mental functioning as measured by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) differs among employees in Britain, Finland, and Japan and whether work characteristics contribute to some of the health inequalities. The participants were 7340 (5122 men and 2218 women) British employees, 2297 (1638 men and 659 women) Japanese employees, and 8164 (1649 men and 6515 women) Finnish employees. All the participants were civil servants aged 40-60 years. Both male and female low grade employees had poor physical functioning in all cohorts. British and Japanese male low grade employees tended to have poor mental functioning but the associations were significant only for Japanese men. No consistent employment-grade differences in mental functioning were observed among British and Japanese women. Among Finnish men and women, high grade employees had poor mental functioning. In all cohorts, high grade employees had high control, high demands and long work hours. The grade differences in poor physical functioning and disadvantaged work characteristics among non-manual workers were somewhat smaller in the Finnish cohort than in the British and Japanese cohorts. Low control, high demands, and both short and long work hours were associated with poor functioning. When work characteristics were adjusted for, the socioeconomic differences in poor functioning were mildly attenuated in men, but the differences increased slightly in women. This study reconfirms the generally observed pattern of socioeconomic inequalities in health for physical functioning but not for mental functioning. The role of work characteristics in the relationship between socioeconomic status and health differed between men and women but was modest overall. We suggest that these differences in the pattern and magnitude of grade differences in work characteristics and health among the 3 cohorts may be attributable to the different welfare regimes among the 3 countries.

  7. Socioeconomic Inequalities in Physical and Mental Functioning of British, Finnish, and Japanese Civil Servants: Role of Job Demand, Control, and Work Hours

    PubMed Central

    Chandola, Tarani; Martikainen, Pekka; Marmot, Michael; Kagamimori, Sadanobu

    2009-01-01

    This study aims to evaluate whether the pattern of socioeconomic inequalities in physical and mental functioning as measured by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) differs among employees in Britain, Finland, and Japan and whether work characteristics contribute to some of the health inequalities. The participants were 7340 (5122 men and 2218 women) British employees, 2297 (1638 men and 659 women) Japanese employees, and 8164 (1649 men and 6515 women) Finnish employees. All the participants were civil servants aged 40–60 years. Both male and female low grade employees had poor physical functioning in all cohorts. British and Japanese male low grade employees tended to have poor mental functioning but the associations were significant only for Japanese men. No consistent employment-grade differences in mental functioning were observed among British and Japanese women. Among Finnish men and women, high grade employees had poor mental functioning. In all cohorts, high grade employees had high control, high demands and long work hours. The grade differences in poor physical functioning and disadvantaged work characteristics among non-manual workers were somewhat smaller in the Finnish cohort than in the British and Japanese cohorts. Low control, high demands, and both short and long work hours were associated with poor functioning. When work characteristics were adjusted for, the socioeconomic differences in poor functioning were mildly attenuated in men, but the differences increased slightly in women. This study reconfirms the generally observed pattern of socioeconomic inequalities in health for physical functioning but not for mental functioning. The role of work characteristics in the relationship between socioeconomic status and health differed between men and women but was modest overall. We suggest that these differences in the pattern and magnitude of grade differences in work characteristics and health among the 3 cohorts may be attributable to the different welfare regimes among the 3 countries. PMID:19767137

  8. Computational Study of a Functionally Graded Ceramic-Metallic Armor

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-12-15

    UNCLAS –Dist. A - Approved for public release Computational Study of a Functionally Graded Ceramic-Metallic Armor Douglas W. Templeton1, Tara J...efficiency of a postulated FGM ceramic-metallic armor system composed of aluminum nitride (AlN) and aluminum. The study had two primary...2006 2. REPORT TYPE N/ A 3. DATES COVERED - 4. TITLE AND SUBTITLE Computational Study of a Functionally Graded Ceramic-Metallic Armor 5a

  9. Psychological Symptoms Linking Exposure to Community Violence and Academic Functioning in African American Adolescents

    PubMed Central

    Busby, Danielle R.; Lambert, Sharon F.; Ialongo, Nicholas S.

    2013-01-01

    African American adolescents are exposed disproportionately to community violence, increasing their risk for emotional and behavioral symptoms that can detract from learning and undermine academic outcomes. The present study examined whether aggressive behavior and depressive and anxious symptoms mediated the association between exposure to community violence and academic functioning, and if the indirect effects of community violence on academic functioning differed for boys and girls, in a community sample of urban African American adolescents (N = 491; 46.6% female). Structural equation modeling was used to examine the indirect effect of exposure to community violence in grade 6 on grade 8 academic functioning. Results revealed that aggression in grade 7 mediated the association between grade 6 exposure to community violence and grade 8 academic functioning. There were no indirect effects through depressive and anxious symptoms, and gender did not moderate the indirect effect. Findings highlight the importance of targeting aggressive behavior for youth exposed to community violence to not only improve their behavioral adjustment but also their academic functioning. Implications for future research are discussed. PMID:23277294

  10. Social Competence and Social Support as Mediators between Comorbid Depressive and Conduct Problems and Functional Outcomes in Middle School Students

    PubMed Central

    Rockhill, Carol M.; Stoep, Ann Vander; McCauley, Elizabeth; Katon, Wayne J.

    2009-01-01

    This study examined the roles of social competence and social support as potential mediators of the association between psychopathology and functional outcomes in a middle school sample (n=521). Participants were stratified into four psychopathology risk groups (depression only, conduct problems only, comorbid depression and conduct problems, low symptoms) based on screening during early 6th grade. Functional outcomes were 6th grade point average (GPA) and parent rating of global adaptive functioning in their 7th grade student. Low levels of social competence were found to mediate the association between psychiatric symptoms and both lower grades and global functioning, for adolescents with depressive symptoms alone and with comorbid symptoms, but not for those with conduct problems alone. Lack of social support mediated the association between symptoms and lower grades for adolescents with depression alone and comorbid symptoms, but not those with conduct problems alone. These findings suggest that intervention to improve social competence and social support may enhance functional outcomes, especially for youth with depressive symptoms or comorbid depressive and conduct symptoms. PMID:18694594

  11. Bioinspired design of dental multilayers.

    PubMed

    Huang, M; Wang, R; Thompson, V; Rekow, D; Soboyejo, W O

    2007-01-01

    This paper considers the use of bioinspired functionally graded structures in the design of dental multi-layers that are more resistant to sub-surface crack nucleation. Unlike existing dental crown restorations that give rise to high stress concentration, the functionally graded layers (between crown materials and the joins that attach them to dentin) are shown to promote significant reductions in stress and improvements in the critical crack size. Special inspiration is drawn from the low stress concentrations associated with the graded distributions in the dentin-enamel-junction (DEJ). The implications of such functionally graded structures are also discussed for the design of dental restorations.

  12. Gender Consideration in Experiment Design for Air Break in Prebreathe

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Conkin, Johnny; Dervay, Joseph P.; Gernhardt, Michael L.

    2007-01-01

    If gender is a confounder of the decompression sickness (DCS) or venous gas emboli (VGE) outcomes of a proposed air break in oxygen prebreathe (PB) project, then decisions about the final experiment design must be made. We evaluated if the incidence of DCS and VGE from tests in altitude chambers over 20 years were different between men and women after resting and exercise PB protocols. Nitrogen washout during PB is our primary risk mitigation strategy to prevent subsequent DCS and VGE in subjects. Bubbles in the pulmonary artery (venous blood) were detected from the precordial position using Doppler ultrasound bubble detectors. The subjects were monitored for VGE for four min at about 15 min intervals for the duration of the altitude exposure, with maximum bubble grade assigned a Spencer Grade of IV.

  13. High temperature durable catalyst development

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Snow, G. C.; Tong, H.

    1981-01-01

    A program has been carried out to develop a catalytic reactor capable of operation in environments representative of those anticipated for advanced automotive gas turbine engines. A reactor consisting of a graded cell honeycomb support with a combination of noble metal and metal oxide catalyst coatings was built and successfully operated for 1000 hr. At an air preheat temperature of 740 K and a propane/air ratio of 0.028 by mass, the adiabatic flame temperature was held at about 1700 K. The graded cell monolithic reaction measured 5 cm in diameter by 10.2 cm in length and was operated at a reference velocity of 14.0 m/s at 1 atm. Measured NOx levels remained below 5 ppm, while unburned hydrocarbon concentrations registered near zero and carbon monoxide levels were nominally below 20 ppm.

  14. Thalamic diffusion differences related to cognitive function in white matter lesions.

    PubMed

    Fernández-Andújar, Marina; Soriano-Raya, Juan José; Miralbell, Júlia; López-Cancio, Elena; Cáceres, Cynthia; Bargalló, Núria; Barrios, Maite; Arenillas, Juan Francisco; Toran, Pere; Alzamora, Maite; Clemente, Imma; Dávalos, Antoni; Mataró, Maria

    2014-05-01

    Cerebral white matter lesions (WMLs) are related to cognitive deficits, probably due to a disruption of frontal-subcortical circuits. We explored thalamic diffusion differences related to white matter lesions (WMLs) and their association with cognitive function in middle-aged individuals. Ninety-six participants from the Barcelona-AsIA Neuropsychology Study were included. Participants were classified into groups based on low grade and high grade of periventricular hyperintensities (PVHs) and deep white matter hyperintensities (DWMHs). Tract-Based Spatial Statistics was used to study thalamic diffusion differences between groups. Mean fractional anisotropy (FA) values in significant areas were calculated for each subject and correlated with cognitive performance. Participants with high-grade PVHs and DWMHs showed lower FA thalamic values compared to those with low-grade PVHs and DWMHs, respectively. Decreased FA thalamic values in high-grade DWMHs, but not high-grade PVH, were related to lower levels of performance in psychomotor speed, verbal fluency, and visuospatial skills. Thalamic diffusion differences are related to lower cognitive function only in participants with high-grade DWMHs. These results support the hypothesis that fronto-subcortical disruption is associated with cognitive function only in DWMHs. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. High-grade ovarian cancer secreting effective exosomes in tumor angiogenesis.

    PubMed

    Yi, Huan; Ye, Jun; Yang, Xiao-Mei; Zhang, Li-Wen; Zhang, Zhi-Gang; Chen, Ya-Ping

    2015-01-01

    Ovarian cancer, the most lethal gynecological cancer, related closely to tumor stage. High-grade ovarian cancer always results in a late diagnose and high recurrence, which reduce survival within five years. Until recently, curable therapy is still under research and anti-angiogenesis proves a promising way. Tumor-derived exosomes are essential in tumor migration and metastases such as angiogenesis is enhanced by exosomes. In our study, we have made comparison between high-grade and unlikely high-grade serous ovarian cancer cells on exosomal function of endothelial cells proliferation, migration and tube formation. Exosomes derived from high-grade ovarian cancer have a profound impact on angiogenesis with comparison to unlikely high-grade ovarian cancer. Proteomic profiles revealed some potential proteins involved in exosomal function of angiogenesis such as ATF2, MTA1, ROCK1/2 and so on. Therefore, exosomes plays an influential role in angiogenesis in ovarian serous cancer and also function more effectively in high-grade ovarian cancer cells.

  16. Long-term mortality benefits of air quality improvement during the twelfth five-year-plan period in 31 provincial capital cities of China

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Tao; Cai, Yuanyuan; Feng, Baixiang; Cao, Ganxiang; Lin, Hualiang; Xiao, Jianpeng; Li, Xing; Liu, Sha; Pei, Lei; Fu, Li; Yang, Xinyi; Zhang, Bo; Ma, Wenjun

    2018-01-01

    The severe air pollution across China in the past several years has made the Chinese government recognize its significant impacts on public health and society, and take enormous efforts to improve the air quality all over the country, especially during the Twelfth Five-Year Plan (12th FYP). However, the overall effectiveness of these air pollution control policies remains unclear. In this study, we selected the 31 municipalities and provincial capital cities in mainland China as study settings. We collected the annual average population size, mortality rates (total mortality and mortality due to cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, total cancer, lung cancer and breast cancer) and concentrations of air pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NO2) in each capital city from 2010 to 2015 from national or local Statistical Yearbooks. The effect sizes of air pollutants on mortality were obtained from previously published meta analyses or cohort studies. We first estimated the annual mortality rates attributed to the changes in air pollutant concentrations for every city in each year. Then, we further estimated the mortality benefits in the scenarios where the air quality had reached the grade II levels of Chinese Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. In most capital cities, we observed dominant decreases in air pollutant concentrations during the 12th FYP, particularly from 2013 to 2015, which has led to significant mortality benefits for the public. A total of 121,658 deaths (0.441‰) have been prevented due to the decrease of PM2.5concentrations from 2013 to 2015 in all included cities. The morality benefits were larger in capital cities located in the key regions (the three main regions and ten city groups) than the other cities. In addition, more mortality benefits could be obtained in the future if the air quality reaches the grade II levels of Chinese Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) or WHO guidelines. We concluded that substantial mortality benefits achieved during the 12th FYP may be attributed to the improvements in China's air quality, which indicated the significant effectiveness of air pollution control policies.

  17. Comparison of the Diagnostic Accuracy of DSC- and Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MRI in the Preoperative Grading of Astrocytomas.

    PubMed

    Nguyen, T B; Cron, G O; Perdrizet, K; Bezzina, K; Torres, C H; Chakraborty, S; Woulfe, J; Jansen, G H; Sinclair, J; Thornhill, R E; Foottit, C; Zanette, B; Cameron, I G

    2015-11-01

    Dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging parameters can be biased by poor measurement of the vascular input function. We have compared the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging by using a phase-derived vascular input function and "bookend" T1 measurements with DSC MR imaging for preoperative grading of astrocytomas. This prospective study included 48 patients with a new pathologic diagnosis of an astrocytoma. Preoperative MR imaging was performed at 3T, which included 2 injections of 5-mL gadobutrol for dynamic contrast-enhanced and DSC MR imaging. During dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging, both magnitude and phase images were acquired to estimate plasma volume obtained from phase-derived vascular input function (Vp_Φ) and volume transfer constant obtained from phase-derived vascular input function (K(trans)_Φ) as well as plasma volume obtained from magnitude-derived vascular input function (Vp_SI) and volume transfer constant obtained from magnitude-derived vascular input function (K(trans)_SI). From DSC MR imaging, corrected relative CBV was computed. Four ROIs were placed over the solid part of the tumor, and the highest value among the ROIs was recorded. A Mann-Whitney U test was used to test for difference between grades. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed by using receiver operating characteristic analysis. Vp_ Φ and K(trans)_Φ values were lower for grade II compared with grade III astrocytomas (P < .05). Vp_SI and K(trans)_SI were not significantly different between grade II and grade III astrocytomas (P = .08-0.15). Relative CBV and dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging parameters except for K(trans)_SI were lower for grade III compared with grade IV (P ≤ .05). In differentiating low- and high-grade astrocytomas, we found no statistically significant difference in diagnostic accuracy between relative CBV and dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging parameters. In the preoperative grading of astrocytomas, the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging parameters is similar to that of relative CBV. © 2015 by American Journal of Neuroradiology.

  18. Mechanical analysis of non-uniform bi-directional functionally graded intelligent micro-beams using modified couple stress theory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bakhshi Khaniki, Hossein; Rajasekaran, Sundaramoorthy

    2018-05-01

    This study develops a comprehensive investigation on mechanical behavior of non-uniform bi-directional functionally graded beam sensors in the framework of modified couple stress theory. Material variation is modelled through both length and thickness directions using power-law, sigmoid and exponential functions. Moreover, beam is assumed with linear, exponential and parabolic cross-section variation through the length using power-law and sigmoid varying functions. Using these assumptions, a general model for microbeams is presented and formulated by employing Hamilton’s principle. Governing equations are solved using a mixed finite element method with Lagrangian interpolation technique, Gaussian quadrature method and Wilson’s Lagrangian multiplier method. It is shown that by using bi-directional functionally graded materials in nonuniform microbeams, mechanical behavior of such structures could be affected noticeably and scale parameter has a significant effect in changing the rigidity of nonuniform bi-directional functionally graded beams.

  19. Thermal tests of large recirculation cooling installations for nuclear power plants

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Balunov, B. F.; Lychakov, V. D.; Il'in, V. A.; Shcheglov, A. A.; Maslov, O. P.; Rasskazova, N. A.; Rakhimov, R. Z.; Boyarov, R. A.

    2017-11-01

    The article presents the results from thermal tests of some recirculation installations for cooling air in nuclear power plant premises, including the volume under the containment. The cooling effect in such installations is produced by pumping water through their heat-transfer tubes. Air from the cooled room is blown by a fan through a bundle of transversely finned tubes and is removed to the same room after having been cooled. The finning of tubes used in the tested installations was made of Grade 08Kh18N10T and Grade 08Kh18N10 stainless steels or Grade AD1 aluminum. Steel fins were attached to the tube over their entire length by means of high-frequency welding. Aluminum fins were extruded on a lathe from the external tube sheath into which a steel tube had preliminarily been placed. Although the fin extrusion operation was accompanied by pressing the sheath inner part to the steel tube, tight contact between them over the entire surface was not fully achieved. In view of this, the air gap's thermal resistance coefficient was introduced in calculating the heat transfer between the heat-transferring media. The air gap average thickness was determined from the test results taking into account the gap variation with temperature due to different linear expansion coefficients of steel and aluminum. These tests, which are part of the acceptance tests of the considered installations, were carried out at the NPO TsKTI test facility and were mainly aimed at checking if the obtained thermal characteristics were consistent with the values calculated according to the standard recommendations with introduction, if necessary, of modifications to those recommendations.

  20. Annotated Bibliography of the Air Force Human Resources Laboratory Technical Reports - 1978

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-06-01

    selection of incentives for classroom use. Grade-related and non -grade-related incentives were described in this experiment in a manner designed to...information monitoring- feedback. The current piractice= materials and methods are an outgroiuth of experimental aJpproache-s to the design . dev...operated in a stand- alone mode, the R & M model can be utilized to analyze the impact of various avionics design configurations on system support

  1. Full-Wave Tomographic and Moment Tensor Inversion Based on 3D Multigrid Strain Green’s Tensor Databases

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-04-30

    grade metamorphic rocks on the southern slope of the Himalaya is imaged as a band of high velocity anomaly...velocity structures closely follow the geological features. As an indication of resolution, the ductile extrusion of high-grade metamorphic rocks on...MATERIEL COMMAND KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, NM 87117-5776 DTIC COPY NOTICE AND SIGNATURE PAGE Using Government drawings, specifications, or other data

  2. Predictive Validity of the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test for USAF Air Battle Manager Training Performance

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-09-01

    performance criteria including passing/failing training, training grades, class rank (Carretta & Ree, 2003; Olea & Ree, 1994), and several non...are consistent with prior validations of the AFOQT versus academic performance criteria in pilot (Carretta & Ree, 1995; Olea & Ree, 1994; Ree...Carretta, & Teachout, 1995)) and navigator ( Olea & Ree, 1994) training. Subsequent analyses took three different approaches to examine the

  3. Evaluation of earthquake and tsunami on JSFR

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

    Chikazawa, Y.; Enuma, Y.; Kisohara, N.

    2012-07-01

    Evaluation of earthquake and tsunami on JSFR has been analyzed. For seismic design, safety components are confirmed to maintain their functions even against recent strong earthquakes. As for Tsunami, some parts of reactor building might be submerged including component cooling water system whose final heat sink is sea water. However, in the JSFR design, safety grade components are independent from component cooling water system (CCWS). The JSFR emergency power supply adopts a gas turbine system with air cooling, since JSFR does not basically require quick start-up of the emergency power supply thanks to the natural convection DHRS. Even in casemore » of long station blackout, the DHRS could be activated by emergency batteries or manually and be operated continuously by natural convection. (authors)« less

  4. Specific Features of After-School Program Quality: Associations with Children’s Functioning in Middle Childhood

    PubMed Central

    Bolt, Daniel M.; Vandell, Deborah Lowe

    2010-01-01

    This longitudinal study examined associations between three after-school program quality features (positive staff–child relations, available activities, programming flexibility) and child developmental outcomes (reading and math grades, work habits, and social skills with peers) in Grade 2 and then Grade 3. Participants (n = 120 in Grade 2, n = 91 in Grade 3) attended after-school programs more than 4 days per week, on average. Controlling for child and family background factors and children’s prior functioning on the developmental outcomes, positive staff–child relations in the programs were positively associated with children’s reading grades in both Grades 2 and 3, and math grades in Grade 2. Positive staff–child relations also were positively associated with social skills in Grade 2, for boys only. The availability of a diverse array of age-appropriate activities at the programs was positively associated with children’s math grades and classroom work habits in Grade 3. Programming flexibility (child choice of activities) was not associated with child outcomes. PMID:20336364

  5. Acoustic wave propagation in continuous functionally graded plates: an extension of the Legendre polynomial approach.

    PubMed

    Lefebvre, J E; Zhang, V; Gazalet, J; Gryba, T; Sadaune, V

    2001-09-01

    The propagation of guided waves in continuous functionally graded plates is studied by using Legendre polynomials. Dispersion curves, and power and field profiles are easily obtained. Our computer program is validated by comparing our results against other calculations from the literature. Numerical results are also given for a graded semiconductor plate. It is felt that the present method could be of quite practical interest in waveguiding engineering, non-destructive testing of functionally graded materials (FGMs) to identify the best inspection strategies, or by means of a numerical inversion algorithm to determine through-thickness gradients in material parameters.

  6. Calculation and word problem-solving skills in primary grades - Impact of cognitive abilities and longitudinal interrelations with task-persistent behaviour.

    PubMed

    Jõgi, Anna-Liisa; Kikas, Eve

    2016-06-01

    Primary school math skills form a basis for academic success down the road. Different math skills have different antecedents and there is a reason to believe that more complex math tasks require better self-regulation. The study aimed to investigate longitudinal interrelations of calculation and problem-solving skills, and task-persistent behaviour in Grade 1 and Grade 3, and the effect of non-verbal intelligence, linguistic abilities, and executive functioning on math skills and task persistence. Participants were 864 students (52.3% boys) from 33 different schools in Estonia. Students were tested twice - at the end of Grade1 and at the end of Grade 3. Calculation and problem-solving skills, and teacher-rated task-persistent behaviour were measured at both time points. Non-verbal intelligence, linguistic abilities, and executive functioning were measured in Grade 1. Cross-lagged structural equation modelling indicated that calculation skills depend on previous math skills and linguistic abilities, while problem-solving skills require also non-verbal intelligence, executive functioning, and task persistence. Task-persistent behaviour in Grade 3 was predicted by previous problem-solving skills, linguistic abilities, and executive functioning. Gender and mother's educational level were added as covariates. The findings indicate that math skills and self-regulation are strongly related in primary grades and that solving complex tasks requires executive functioning and task persistence from children. Findings support the idea that instructional practices might benefit from supporting self-regulation in order to gain domain-specific, complex skill achievement. © 2015 The British Psychological Society.

  7. Functionally graded biomimetic energy absorption concept development for transportation systems.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2014-02-01

    Mechanics of a functionally graded cylinder subject to static or dynamic axial loading is considered, including a potential application as energy absorber. The mass density and stiffness are power functions of the radial coordinate as may be the case...

  8. 7 CFR 29.3542 - Rework.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... separated by sorting; (b) Tobacco which contains an abnormally large quantity of foreign matter or an...

  9. 7 CFR 29.3542 - Rework.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... separated by sorting; (b) Tobacco which contains an abnormally large quantity of foreign matter or an...

  10. 7 CFR 29.3542 - Rework.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... separated by sorting; (b) Tobacco which contains an abnormally large quantity of foreign matter or an...

  11. 32 CFR 806b.45 - Releasable information.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ...-inclusive. (a) Name. (b) Rank. (c) Grade. (d) Air Force specialty code. (e) Pay (including base pay, special...) Pay date. (n) Source of commission. (o) Professional military education. (p) Promotion sequence number...

  12. 32 CFR 806b.45 - Releasable information.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...-inclusive. (a) Name. (b) Rank. (c) Grade. (d) Air Force specialty code. (e) Pay (including base pay, special...) Pay date. (n) Source of commission. (o) Professional military education. (p) Promotion sequence number...

  13. Socioeconomic inequalities in physical and mental functioning of Japanese civil servants: explanations from work and family characteristics.

    PubMed

    Sekine, Michikazu; Chandola, Tarani; Martikainen, Pekka; Marmot, Michael; Kagamimori, Sadanobu

    2006-07-01

    Poor physical and mental functioning is more common among people of low socioeconomic status (SES) and those with disadvantaged work and family characteristics. This study aims to clarify whether the SES inequalities in functioning can be explained by the SES differences in work and family characteristics. The subjects were 3787 male and female civil servants, aged 20-65, working in a local government on the west coast of Japan. Logistic regression analysis was performed to examine (1) whether there were employment-grade (SES) differences in poor physical and mental functioning as measured by the Short Form 36 (SF-36) and (2) whether these SES differences were explained by work and family characteristics. In general, low control at work, high demands, low social support, short and long work hours, shift work, being unmarried, high family-to-work conflict and high work-to-family conflict were independently associated with poor physical and mental functioning in both men and women. In men, the age-adjusted odds ratio (OR) of low-grade employees for poor physical functioning was 1.93 (95% confidence interval: 1.38-2.69) in comparison to high-grade employees. The grade difference was mildly attenuated, when adjusted for work and family characteristics (OR = 1.72)(1.20-2.47). The age-adjusted OR of the low-grade employees for poor mental functioning was 1.88 (1.29-2.74). The grade difference was attenuated and no longer significant when adjusted for work and family characteristics (OR = 1.51)(0.99-2.31). Among women, there were no significant grade-differences in poor physical and mental functioning. Although longitudinal research is necessary to clarify the causal nature of these associations, improvements in SES differences in work and family characteristics may be important for reducing SES inequalities in physical and mental functioning among Japanese men. The different patterns of SES inequalities in health between men and women deserve further research.

  14. [Application of laminar air flow techniques in burn treatment].

    PubMed

    Chen, Hua-de; Lai, Wen; Zheng, Shao-yi; Gao, Hui; Xiong, Bing; Bian, Hui-ning; Liu, Zuo-An; Wei, Li-jun

    2005-12-01

    To evaluate the value of laminar flow in the treatment of burns. The air in the laminar flow chamber and the wound tissues of the patients were sampled for bacterial detection. The number and stains of bacterial colony from different classes of laminar air flow chambers at different time points were inspected and compared. The bacterial number was 0 in the laminar flow chamber of 1000 grade, which was obviously different from that in the public area. The mortality was obviously decreased in the laminar air flow chamber with shorter treatment time and hospitalization. No wound infection occurred and the wounds healed smoothly in all these patients. The application of laminar air flow can be helpful for the treatment of severe burns.

  15. A Progression in First-Grade Children's Thinking about Variable and Variable Notation in Functional Relationships

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Blanton, Maria; Brizuela, Bárbara M.; Gardiner, Angela Murphy; Sawrey, Katie; Newman-Owens, Ashley

    2017-01-01

    Recent research suggests that children in elementary grades have some facility with variable and variable notation in ways that warrant closer attention. We report here on an empirically developed progression in first-grade children's thinking about these concepts in functional relationships. Using learning trajectories research as a framework for…

  16. Comparison of the oxidation rate and degree of graphitization of selected IG and NBG nuclear graphite grades

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chi, Se-Hwan; Kim, Gen-Chan

    2008-10-01

    The oxidation rate and degree of graphitization (DOG) were determined for some selected nuclear graphite grades (i.e., IG-110, IG-430, NBG-18, NBG-25) and compared in view of their filler coke type (i.e., pitch or petroleum coke) and the physical property of the grades. Oxidation rates were determined at six temperatures between 600 and 960 °C in air by using a three-zone vertical tube furnace at a 10 l/min air flow rate. The specimens were a cylinder with a 25.4 mm diameter and a 25.4 mm length. The DOG was determined based on the lattice parameter c determined from an X-ray diffraction (XRD). Results showed that, even though the four examined nuclear graphite grades showed a highly temperature-sensitive oxidation behavior through out the test temperature range of 600-950 °C, the differences between the grades were not significant. The oxidation rates determined for a 5-10% weight loss at the six temperatures were nearly the same except for 702 and 808 °C, where the pitch coke graphites showed an apparent decrease in their oxidation rate, more so than the petroleum coke graphites. These effects of the coke type reduced or nearly disappeared with an increasing temperature. The average activation energy determined for 608-808 °C was 161.5 ± 7.3 kJ/mol, showing that the dominant oxidation reaction occurred by a chemical control. A relationship between the oxidation rate and DOG was not observed.

  17. Air pollution and heart rate variability: effect modification by chronic lead exposure.

    PubMed

    Park, Sung Kyun; O'Neill, Marie S; Vokonas, Pantel S; Sparrow, David; Wright, Robert O; Coull, Brent; Nie, Huiling; Hu, Howard; Schwartz, Joel

    2008-01-01

    Outdoor air pollution and lead exposure can disturb cardiac autonomic function, but the effects of both these exposures together have not been studied. We examined whether higher cumulative lead exposures, as measured by bone lead, modified cross-sectional associations between air pollution and heart rate variability among 384 elderly men from the Normative Aging Study. We used linear regression, controlling for clinical, demographic, and environmental covariates. We found graded, significant reductions in both high-frequency and low-frequency powers of heart rate variability in relation to ozone and sulfate across the quartiles of tibia lead. Interquartile range increases in ozone and sulfate were associated respectively, with 38% decrease (95% confidence interval = -54.6% to -14.9%) and 22% decrease (-40.4% to 1.6%) in high frequency, and 38% decrease (-51.9% to -20.4%) and 12% decrease (-28.6% to 9.3%) in low frequency, in the highest quartile of tibia lead after controlling for potential confounders. We observed similar but weaker effect modification by tibia lead adjusted for education and cumulative traffic (residuals of the regression of tibia lead on education and cumulative traffic). Patella lead modified only the ozone effect on heart rate variability. People with long-term exposure to higher levels of lead may be more sensitive to cardiac autonomic dysfunction on high air pollution days. Efforts to understand how environmental exposures affect the health of an aging population should consider both current levels of pollution and history of lead exposure as susceptibility factors.

  18. Relation of Hydrogen and Methane to Carbon Monoxide in Exhaust Gases from Internal-Combustion Engines

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Gerrish, Harold C; Tessmann, Arthur M

    1935-01-01

    The relation of hydrogen and methane to carbon monoxide in the exhaust gases from internal-combustion engines operating on standard-grade aviation gasoline, fighting-grade aviation gasoline, hydrogenated safety fuel, laboratory diesel fuel, and auto diesel fuel was determined by analysis of the exhaust gases. Two liquid-cooled single-cylinder spark-ignition, one 9-cylinder radial air-cooled spark-ignition, and two liquid-cooled single-cylinder compression-ignition engines were used.

  19. Our Community -- Today and Yesterday. Book One (Nihil Hahoodzodoo -- Diijiidi doo Adaadaa. Naaltsoos T'aala'i Gone Yits'iligii). Fourth Grade Navajo Bilingual-Bicultural Social Studies Curriculum.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Bia, Fred; And Others

    Presented in five chapters, book 1 of the Rough Rock fourth grade Navajo social studies program text is written in Navajo and English. The first chapter is on the community of Rough Rock (Arizona) illustrated by photographs of the community and people. Chapter II discusses the four elements (air, water, earth, and fire) the community needs to…

  20. The Village Green Project: Lesson Plans for K-8 Educators

    EPA Science Inventory

    This document contains lesson plans spanning kindergarten through 8th grade, that are written to connect next-generation science standards (USA) to the Village Green Project and related air quality topics.

  1. Advancing Sensor Technology to Monitor Wildfires

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    EPA and partners are looking at ways to use miniature sensors to monitor air quality near wildfires. Data from these small sensors can complement measurements obtained from more complex regulatory-grade monitors that are stationary.

  2. 7 CFR 29.3521 - Grademark.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... letters to indicate color. For example, B3D means Heavy Leaf, third quality, and dark-brown color. ...

  3. 7 CFR 29.3521 - Grademark.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... letters to indicate color. For example, B3D means Heavy Leaf, third quality, and dark-brown color. ...

  4. 7 CFR 29.3521 - Grademark.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... letters to indicate color. For example, B3D means Heavy Leaf, third quality, and dark-brown color. ...

  5. 7 CFR 29.3521 - Grademark.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... letters to indicate color. For example, B3D means Heavy Leaf, third quality, and dark-brown color. ...

  6. 7 CFR 29.3521 - Grademark.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign... letters to indicate color. For example, B3D means Heavy Leaf, third quality, and dark-brown color. ...

  7. Thermo-Electro-Mechanical Analysis of a Curved Functionally Graded Piezoelectric Actuator with Sandwich Structure.

    PubMed

    Yan, Zhi; Zaman, Mostafa; Jiang, Liying

    2011-12-12

    In this work, the problem of a curved functionally graded piezoelectric (FGP) actuator with sandwich structure under electrical and thermal loads is investigated. The middle layer in the sandwich structure is functionally graded with the piezoelectric coefficient g 31 varying continuously along the radial direction of the curved actuator. Based on the theory of linear piezoelectricity, analytical solutions are obtained by using Airy stress function to examine the effects of material gradient and heat conduction on the performance of the curved actuator. It is found that the material gradient and thermal load have significant influence on the electroelastic fields and the mechanical response of the curved FGP actuator. Without the sacrifice of actuation deflection, smaller internal stresses are generated by using the sandwich actuator with functionally graded piezoelectric layer instead of the conventional bimorph actuator. This work is very helpful for the design and application of curved piezoelectric actuators under thermal environment.

  8. 49 CFR Appendix B to Part 232 - Part 232 Prior to May 31, 2001 as Clarified Effective April 10, 2002

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... coupled to train, after which, an automatic brake application and release test of airbrakes on rear car... closing angle cocks for cutting off one or more cars from the rear end of train, automatic air brake must... automatic air brake must not be depended upon to hold a locomotive, cars or train, when standing on a grade...

  9. 49 CFR Appendix B to Part 232 - Part 232 Prior to May 31, 2001 as Clarified Effective April 10, 2002

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... coupled to train, after which, an automatic brake application and release test of airbrakes on rear car... closing angle cocks for cutting off one or more cars from the rear end of train, automatic air brake must... automatic air brake must not be depended upon to hold a locomotive, cars or train, when standing on a grade...

  10. Evaluation of the mechanical properties of electroslag refined iron alloys

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bhat, G. K.

    1976-01-01

    Nitronic 40 (21Cr-6N-9Mn), HY-130, 9Ni-4Co, and D-6 alloys were prepared and evaluated in the form of 15.2 mm thick plates. Smooth bar tensile tests, double-edge sharp notch fracture toughness tests Charpy V-notch impact tests were conducted on appropriate heat treated specimens of the four steel plates at 22 C, -50 C, -100 C, -150 C, and -196 C. Similar material characterization, including metallographic evaluation studies on air melt and vacuum arc melt grades of same four alloy steels were conducted for comparative purposes. A cost analysis of manufacturing plates of air melt, electroslag remelt and vacuum arc remelt grades was performed. The results of both material characterization and cost analyses pointed out certain special benefits of electroslag processing iron base alloys.

  11. Is the Sky Falling? Grade Inflation and the Signaling Power of Grades

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pattison, Evangeleen; Grodsky, Eric; Muller, Chandra

    2013-01-01

    Grades are the fundamental currency of our educational system; they signal academic achievement and noncognitive skills to parents, employers, postsecondary gatekeepers, and students themselves. Grade inflation compromises the signaling value of grades and undermines their capacity to achieve the functions for which they are intended. We challenge…

  12. School-based exposure to hazardous air pollutants and grade point average: A multi-level study.

    PubMed

    Grineski, Sara E; Clark-Reyna, Stephanie E; Collins, Timothy W

    2016-05-01

    The problem of environmental health hazards around schools is serious but it has been neglected by researchers and analysts. This is concerning because children are highly susceptible to the effects of chemical hazards. Some ecological studies have demonstrated that higher school-level pollution is associated with lower aggregate school-level standardized test scores likely, related to increased respiratory illnesses and/or impaired cognitive development. However, an important question remains unexamined: How do school-level exposures impact individual children's academic performance? To address this, we obtained socio-demographic and grades data from the parents of 1888 fourth and fifth grade children in the El Paso (Texas, USA) Independent School District in 2012. El Paso is located on the US-side of the Mexican border and has a majority Mexican-origin population. School-based hazardous air pollution (HAP) exposure was calculated using census block-level US Environmental Protection Agency National Air Toxics Assessment risk estimates for respiratory and diesel particulate matter (PM). School-level demographics were obtained from the school district. Multi-level models adjusting for individual-level covariates (e.g., age, sex, race/ethnicity, English proficiency, and economic deprivation) and school-level covariates (e.g., percent of students economically disadvantaged and student-teacher ratio) showed that higher school-level HAPs were associated with lower individual-level grade point averages. An interquartile range increase in school-level HAP exposure was associated with an adjusted 0.11-0.40 point decrease in individual students' grade point averages (GPAs), depending on HAP type and emission source. Respiratory risk from HAPs had a larger effect on GPA than did diesel PM risk. Non-road mobile and total respiratory risk had the largest effects on children's GPA of all HAP variables studied and only mother's level of education had a larger effect than those two variables on children's GPA. The five school-level demographic indicators were only weakly associated with GPA. The study findings indicate the need for regulations on school siting and adjacent land uses to protect children's environmental health. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  13. Association of area socioeconomic status with lung function in children.

    PubMed

    Wu, Yi-Fan; Wu, Cho-Kai; Chen, Duan-Rung; Chie, Wei-Chu; Lee, Yungling Leo

    2012-12-01

    The study investigates the association between area-level socioeconomic status (SES) and children's lung function. Participants were 3994 seventh grade students from the Taiwan Children Health Study living in 14 communities in Taiwan and were recruited in 2007. Area-level SES predictors were population size, occupation type, income and education level. Hierarchical linear models (HLM) were used to examine the effects of area-level SES on lung function, after accounting for area air pollution and individual SES (parental education and family income). Areas with high income were independently associated with lower child lung function. The coefficients for log transformation of area tax per person in HLM were -47.8 (95% confidence interval (CI): -80.9, -14.8) in FEV(1), -43.8 (95% CI: -75.2, -12.5) in FVC, -93.4 (95% CI: -179.3, -7.5) in FEF(25-75) and -203.2 (95% CI: -349.1, -57.2) in PEF. All SES predictors influenced in the same direction and affected males more. The interaction of area tax per person with parental educational level was significant on PEF, suggesting significant association of greater parental education with lower lung function in children. High area SES was inversely associated with lung function in Taiwanese children. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. The Correlation between the Fourth Grade Students' Level of Functional Literacy and Metacognitive Awareness

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Özenç, Emine Gül; Dikici, Hidayet

    2016-01-01

    The present study aims at presenting the relationship between the fourth grade primary school students' level of functional literacy and metacognitive awareness. The study group of the research is made up of 406 fourth grade students attending school during 2015-2016 academic year in Nigde. This study adopts survey model and its data collection…

  15. LEARNING EFFICIENCY AS A FUNCTION OF DEPICTION, VERBALIZATION, GRADE AND SOCIAL CLASS.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    ROHWER, WILLIAM D., JR.; AND OTHERS

    LEARNING EFFICIENCY AS A FUNCTION OF DEPICTION, VERBALIZATION, GRADE LEVEL, AND SOCIAL CLASS WAS EXPLORED BY ASKING 384 KINDERGARTEN, FIRST-, THIRD-, AND SIXTH-GRADE CHILDREN FROM BOTH MIDDLE-CLASS AND LOWER-CLASS AREAS TO LEARN A LIST OF 24 PAIRED ASSOCIATES. ALL PAIRS WERE PRESENTED PICTORIALLY BY A STUDY-TEST METHOD FOR TWO LEARNING TRIALS. THE…

  16. The Association Between Sleep Disordered Breathing, Academic Grades, and Cognitive and Behavioral Functioning Among Overweight Subjects During Middle to Late Childhood

    PubMed Central

    Beebe, Dean W.; Ris, M. Douglas; Kramer, Megan E.; Long, Elizabeth; Amin, Raouf

    2010-01-01

    Study Objectives: (1) to determine the associations of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) with behavioral functioning, cognitive test scores, and school grades during middle- to late-childhood, an under-researched developmental period in the SDB literature, and (2) to clarify whether associations between SDB and school grades are mediated by deficits in cognitive or behavioral functioning. Design: Cross-sectional correlative study. Setting: Office/hospital, plus reported functioning at home and at school. Participants: 163 overweight subjects aged 10-16.9 years were divided into 4 groups based upon their obstructive apnea+hypopnea index (AHI) during overnight polysomnography and parent report of snoring: Moderate-Severe OSA (AHI > 5, n = 42), Mild OSA (AHI = 1-5, n = 58), Snorers (AHI < 1 + snoring, n = 26), and No SDB (AHI < 1 and nonsnoring, n = 37). Measurements: Inpatient overnight polysomnography, parent- and self-report of school grades and sleep, parent- and teacher-report of daytime behaviors, and office-based neuropsychological testing. Results: The 4 groups significantly differed in academic grades and parent- and teacher-reported behaviors, particularly inattention and learning problems. These findings remained significant after adjusting for subject sex, race, socioeconomic status, and school night sleep duration. Associations with SDB were confined to reports of behavioral difficulties in real-world situations, and did not extend to office-based neuropsychological tests. Findings from secondary analyses were consistent with, but could not definitively confirm, a causal model in which SDB affects school grades via its impact on behavioral functioning. Conclusions: SDB during middle- to late-childhood is related to important aspects of behavioral functioning, especially inattention and learning difficulties, that may result in significant functional impairment at school. Citation: Beebe DW; Ris MD; Kramer ME; Long E; Amin R. The association between sleep disordered breathing, academic grades, and cognitive and behavioral functioning among overweight subjects during middle to late childhood. SLEEP 2010;33(11):1447-1456. PMID:21102986

  17. REG Geismar Approval

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    This April 13, 2017 letter from EPA approves the petition from Renewable Energy Group, Inc. for renewable diesel produced from non-food grade corn oil as biomass-based diesel under the Clean Air Act and the Renewable Fuel Standard Program.

  18. Sixth-Grade Aeronauts.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Flick, Larry; Dejmal, Ked

    1989-01-01

    An activity which combines problem solving with the history and science of hot air balloons is presented. Instructions for making and launching tissue-paper balloons are provided. The advantage of using manipulative materials with middle school students is discussed. (CW)

  19. Quality of life measures in glioma patients with different grades: A preliminary study.

    PubMed

    Mahalakshmi, P; Vanisree, A J

    2015-01-01

    Plethora of information exists in the literature on pathology of the glioma while prevailing research data on quality-of-life (QOL) of glioma patients marks dearth thus demanding more studies. In this study, we examined the QOL of different grades of glioma patients among the Chennai population in India. A total of 162 patients with different grades of glioma enrolled from August 2007 to February 2011, at their first contact to Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Government General Hospital, Chennai, India were included and their QOL was assessed by European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core QOL questionnaire (EORTC QLQc-30), EORTC brain cancer module (QLQ BN-20). Both low and high grade glioma (LGG and HGG) patients had poor mean scores in social functioning (87.0), physical functioning (82.0) and emotional functioning (75.2) and role functioning (58.9). The mean scores on cognitive functioning (61.9) and global QOL (60.3) were better. Age, Karnofsky performance status, World Health Organization grades showed significant associations with all functional scales. The percentage values were higher for symptoms of fatigue (76.9%), pain (71.5%), financial difficulties (77.6%) and appetite loss (38.46%) in both LGG and HGG. Similarly, with respect to QLQ-BN20 domains, HGG patients showed more symptoms than low grade with a significant correlation in communication deficit problems (P = 0.02), headache (P = 0.04), seizures (P < 0.01), hair loss (P < 0.05) than the other symptoms. This initial assessment suggests that an increasing burden of symptoms exists, with poor QOL and survival, which has become a major concern in different grades of glioma patients.

  20. MODELING FUNCTIONALLY GRADED INTERPHASE REGIONS IN CARBON NANOTUBE REINFORCED COMPOSITES

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Seidel, G. D.; Lagoudas, D. C.; Frankland, S. J. V.; Gates, T. S.

    2006-01-01

    A combination of micromechanics methods and molecular dynamics simulations are used to obtain the effective properties of the carbon nanotube reinforced composites with functionally graded interphase regions. The multilayer composite cylinders method accounts for the effects of non-perfect load transfer in carbon nanotube reinforced polymer matrix composites using a piecewise functionally graded interphase. The functional form of the properties in the interphase region, as well as the interphase thickness, is derived from molecular dynamics simulations of carbon nanotubes in a polymer matrix. Results indicate that the functional form of the interphase can have a significant effect on all the effective elastic constants except for the effective axial modulus for which no noticeable effects are evident.

  1. Environmental Assessment Supplement for C-17Southwest Landing Zone Articulated Concrete Block Shoulders Travis Air Force Base, Fairfield, California

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-03-01

    shoulders in place of soil shoulders adjacent to the runway shoulder. The EA Supplement evaluates the potential impacts that could result from...potential impacts that could result from constructing and operating ACB in place of soil shoulders. Resources with the potential to be affected by...excavated and graded prior to installing ACB mats. Soil from grading activities will be used to fill the voids in the ACB, with any remaining soil being

  2. Motivating Students to Do Homework

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kontur, Frederick J.; Terry, Nathan B.

    2014-05-01

    How do you motivate students to do their homework? Some instructors make students' homework scores a significant percentage of the final course grade. In that case, how much course credit is required? Some instructors do not grade homework at all, instead relying on students' intrinsic motivation to learn the course material. Will this actually work? Some instructors might motivate students by having quiz and/or exam problems closely match the assigned homework problems. In this article, we report on the effectiveness of grade incentives, homework-based quiz problems, and intrinsic motivation for 16 semesters of introductory mechanics and introductory electricity and magnetism (E&M) courses at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) between fall 2008 and spring 2012.

  3. Final Environmental Assessment: Replacement Joint Force Headquarters Building, Hanscom Air Force Base Massachusetts

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-01-22

    MANG and the Air Force. A public notice was published in the Boston Globe and the local papers for Lincoln, Concord, Bedford, and Lexington on December...industrial areas. The types of solid waste generated include food, various grades of office paper , newspaper, Final Environmental Assessment...gas ranges and dryers . Additionally, natural gas is consumed by various other facilities on base including the child care center, the Officer’s Club

  4. Social and Academic Expectations about High School for At-Risk Rural Youth

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Stein, Gabriela Livas; Hussong, Andrea

    2007-01-01

    This study examines high school expectancies in a sample of at-risk, rural youth, and how these expectancies relate to 8th grade functioning, 9th grade functioning, and 9th grade experiences of high school. A total of 76 eighth-graders and their parents, drawn from a larger study of the transition to high school, participated in interviews the…

  5. Nutritional and functional characteristics of seven grades of black tea produced in Turkey.

    PubMed

    Serpen, Arda; Pelvan, Ebru; Alasalvar, Cesarettin; Mogol, Burçe Ataç; Yavuz, Havvana Tuba; Gökmen, Vural; Özcan, Nihat; Özçelik, Beraat

    2012-08-08

    Seven grades of black tea [high-quality black tea (grades 1-3) and low-quality black tea (grades 4-7)], processed by ÇAYKUR Tea Processing Plant (Rize, Turkey), were examined for their proximate composition, dietary fiber, minerals, and water-soluble vitamins as well as total phenolic content, various antioxidant assays, phenolics (flavanols, alkoloids, condensed phenolics, and phenolic acids), chlorophylls, and carotenoids. Some variations, albeit to different extents, were observed (p < 0.05) among these parameters in seven grades of black tea. With respect to proximate composition, dietary fiber was the predominant compound (ranging from 49.68 to 54.31 g/100 g), followed by protein, carbohydrate, and, to a lesser extent, ash, moisture, and fat. Thirteen minerals, four water-soluble vitamins, six flavanols, two alkoloids, three condensed phenolics, one phenolic acid, two chlorophylls, and two carotenoids were identified in the seven grades of black tea. Total phenol content ranged from 7.52 to 8.29 g of gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/100 g, being lowest in grade 6 and highest in grade 1. With regard to antioxidant activities, a large variation in oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) values was observed among all grades of black tea (ranging from 777 μmol of trolox equivalents (TE)/g in grade 7 to 1210 μmol of TE/g in grade 3). The present work suggests that high- and low-quality black teas should not be distinguished on the basis of their nutritional and functional characteristics. The combination of nutritional compounds together with functional characteristics renders combination effects that provide the characteristic quality of each grade of black tea.

  6. The Ottawa panel clinical practice guidelines for the management of knee osteoarthritis. Part three: aerobic exercise programs.

    PubMed

    Brosseau, Lucie; Taki, Jade; Desjardins, Brigit; Thevenot, Odette; Fransen, Marlene; Wells, George A; Mizusaki Imoto, Aline; Toupin-April, Karine; Westby, Marie; Álvarez Gallardo, Inmaculada C; Gifford, Wendy; Laferrière, Lucie; Rahman, Prinon; Loew, Laurianne; De Angelis, Gino; Cavallo, Sabrina; Shallwani, Shirin Mehdi; Aburub, Ala'; Bennell, Kim L; Van der Esch, Martin; Simic, Milena; McConnell, Sara; Harmer, Alison; Kenny, Glen P; Paterson, Gail; Regnaux, Jean-Philippe; Lefevre-Colau, Marie-Martine; McLean, Linda

    2017-05-01

    To identify effective aerobic exercise programs and provide clinicians and patients with updated, high-quality recommendations concerning traditional land-based exercises for knee osteoarthritis. A systematic search and adapted selection criteria included comparative controlled trials with strengthening exercise programs for patients with knee osteoarthritis. A panel of experts reached consensus on the recommendations using a Delphi survey. A hierarchical alphabetical grading system (A, B, C+, C, D, D+, or D-) was used, based on statistical significance ( P < 0.5) and clinical importance (⩾15% improvement). The five high-quality studies included demonstrated that various aerobic training exercises are generally effective for improving knee osteoarthritis within a 12-week period. An aerobic exercise program demonstrated significant improvement for pain relief (Grade B), physical function (Grade B) and quality of life (Grade C+). Aerobic exercise in combination with strengthening exercises showed significant improvement for pain relief (3 Grade A) and physical function (2 Grade A, 2 Grade B). A short-term aerobic exercise program with/without muscle strengthening exercises is promising for reducing pain, improving physical function and quality of life for individuals with knee osteoarthritis.

  7. Gender Consideration in Experiment Design for Airbrake in Prebreathe

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Conkin, Johnny; Gernhardt, Michael I.; Dervay, Joseph P.

    2007-01-01

    If gender is a confounder of the decompression sickness (DCS) or venous gas emboli (VGE) outcomes of a proposed air break in oxygen prebreathe (PB) project, then decisions about the final experiment design must be made. We evaluated if the incidence of DCS and VGE from tests in altitude chambers over 20 years were different between men and women after resting and exercise prebreathe protocols. Nitrogen washout during PB is our primary risk mitigation strategy to prevent subsequent DCS and VGE in subjects. Bubbles in the pulmonary artery (venous blood) were detected from the precordial position using Doppler ultrasound bubble detectors. The subjects were monitored for VGE for four min at about 15 min intervals for the duration of the altitude exposure, with maximum bubble grade assigned a Spencer Grade of IV. There was no difference in DCS incidence between men and women in either PB protocol. The incidence of VGE and Grade IV VGE is statistically lower in women compared to men after resting PB. Even when 10 tests were compared with Mantel-Haenszel 2 where both men (n = 168) and women (n = 92) appeared, the p-value for VGE incidence was still significant at 0.03. The incidence of VGE and Grade IV VGE is not statistically lower in women compared to men after exercise PB. Even when six tests were compared with Mantel-Haenszel x2 where both men (n = 165) and women (n = 49) appeared, the p-value for VGE incidence was still not significant at 0.90. Our goal is to understand the risk of brief air breaks during PB without other confounding variables invalidating our conclusions. The cost to additionally account for the confounding role of gender on VGE outcome after resting PB is judged excessive. Our decision is to only evaluate air breaks in the exercise PB protocol. So there is no restriction to recruiting women as test subjects.

  8. 7 CFR 29.3528 - Leaf surface.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3528 Leaf surface. The roughness or smoothness of the web or lamina of a tobacco leaf...

  9. 7 CFR 29.3528 - Leaf surface.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3528 Leaf surface. The roughness or smoothness of the web or lamina of a tobacco leaf...

  10. 7 CFR 29.3528 - Leaf surface.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3528 Leaf surface. The roughness or smoothness of the web or lamina of a tobacco leaf...

  11. 7 CFR 29.3528 - Leaf surface.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3528 Leaf surface. The roughness or smoothness of the web or lamina of a tobacco leaf...

  12. 7 CFR 29.3528 - Leaf surface.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... INSPECTION Standards Official Standard Grades for Dark Air-Cured Tobacco (u.s. Types 35, 36, 37 and Foreign Type 95) § 29.3528 Leaf surface. The roughness or smoothness of the web or lamina of a tobacco leaf...

  13. 9. Photocopy of engineering drawing. LC 17 HIGH PRESSURE GAS ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    9. Photocopy of engineering drawing. LC 17 HIGH PRESSURE GAS INSTALLATION: SITE & GRADING PLAN, APRIL 1969. - Cape Canaveral Air Station, Launch Complex 17, Facility 28419, East end of Lighthouse Road, Cape Canaveral, Brevard County, FL

  14. Slow fatigue testing of titanium grade 29 in air and seawater

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

    Atteraas, L.; Hersvik, G.; Solbakken, H.

    1999-07-01

    ASTM Grade 29 titanium has been fatigue tested in air and seawater at 110 C at a low frequency. The possible influence of seawater is completely masked by the fact that all the specimens of welded titanium, and most of the parent metal samples, had internal fracture initiations. Compared to the parent metal, the welded pipe specimens (5G orbital TIG) had a significantly lower fatigue life at the relatively high cyclic stress levels employed ({sigma}{sub max} = 0.85 {sigma}{sub y}). This is attributed to the presence of pores. Fractographic studies of failed weld metal specimens indicate that the fracture initiationmore » takes place in the material immediately surrounding a pore, with an abrupt crack formation, marking the beginning of the crack growth phase. The duration of the crack initiation phase shows large variations, whereas the growth phase duration varies little.« less

  15. Teaching Mathematical Functions Using Geometric Functions Approach and Its Effect on Ninth Grade Students' Motivation

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Akçakin, Veysel

    2018-01-01

    The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of using geometric functions approach on 9th grade students' motivation levels toward mathematics in functions unit. Participants of this study were 87 students who were ongoing in the first year of high school in Turkey. In this research, pretest and posttest control group quasiexperimental…

  16. Deposition and Characterization of HVOF Thermal Sprayed Functionally Graded Coatings Deposited onto a Lightweight Material

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hasan, M.; Stokes, J.; Looney, L.; Hashmi, M. S. J.

    2009-02-01

    There is a significant interest in lightweight materials (like aluminum, magnesium, titanium, and so on) containing a wear resistance coating, in such industries as the automotive industry, to replace heavy components with lighter parts in order to decrease vehicle weight and increase fuel efficiency. Functionally graded coatings, in which the composition, microstructure, and/or properties vary gradually from the bond coat to the top coat, may be applied to lightweight materials, not only to decrease weight, but also to enhance components mechanical properties by ensuring gradual microstructural (changes) together with lower residual stress. In the current work, aluminum/tool-steel functionally graded coatings were deposited onto lightweight aluminum substrates. The graded coatings were then characterized in terms of residual stress and hardness. Results show that residual stress increased with an increase in deposition thickness and a decrease in number of layers. However, the hardness also increased with an increase in deposition thickness and decrease in number of layers. Therefore, an engineer must compromise between the hardness and stress values while designing a functionally graded coating-substrate system.

  17. Thermo-Electro-Mechanical Analysis of a Curved Functionally Graded Piezoelectric Actuator with Sandwich Structure

    PubMed Central

    Yan, Zhi; Zaman, Mostafa; Jiang, Liying

    2011-01-01

    In this work, the problem of a curved functionally graded piezoelectric (FGP) actuator with sandwich structure under electrical and thermal loads is investigated. The middle layer in the sandwich structure is functionally graded with the piezoelectric coefficient g31 varying continuously along the radial direction of the curved actuator. Based on the theory of linear piezoelectricity, analytical solutions are obtained by using Airy stress function to examine the effects of material gradient and heat conduction on the performance of the curved actuator. It is found that the material gradient and thermal load have significant influence on the electroelastic fields and the mechanical response of the curved FGP actuator. Without the sacrifice of actuation deflection, smaller internal stresses are generated by using the sandwich actuator with functionally graded piezoelectric layer instead of the conventional bimorph actuator. This work is very helpful for the design and application of curved piezoelectric actuators under thermal environment. PMID:28824130

  18. Micromechanics and Structural Response of Functionally Graded, Particulate-Matrix, Fiber-Reinforced Composites

    PubMed Central

    Genin, Guy M.; Birman, Victor

    2009-01-01

    Reinforcement of fibrous composites by stiff particles embedded in the matrix offers the potential for simple, economical functional grading, enhanced response to mechanical loads, and improved functioning at high temperatures. Here, we consider laminated plates made of such a material, with spherical reinforcement tailored by layer. The moduli for this material lie within relatively narrow bounds. Two separate moduli estimates are considered: a “two-step” approach in which fibers are embedded in a homogenized particulate matrix, and the Kanaun-Jeulin (2001) approach, which we re-derive in a simple way using the Benveniste (1988) method. Optimal tailoring of a plate is explored, and functional grading is shown to improve the performance of the structures considered. In the example of a square, simply supported, cross-ply laminated panel subjected to uniform transverse pressure, a modest functional grading offers significant improvement in performance. A second example suggests superior blast resistance of the panel achieved at the expense of only a small increase in weight. PMID:23874001

  19. Delamination Analysis of a Multilayered Two-Dimensional Functionally Graded Cantilever Beam

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rizov, V.

    2017-11-01

    Delamination fracture behaviour of a multilayered two-dimensional functionally graded cantilever beam is analyzed in terms of the strain energy release rate. The beam is made of an arbitrary number of layers. Perfect adhesion is assumed between layers. Each layer has individual thickness and material properties. Besides, the material is two-dimensional functionally graded in the cross-section of each layer. There is a delamination crack located arbitrary between layers. The beam is loaded by a bending moment applied at the free end of the lower crack arm. The upper crack arm is free of stresses. The solution to strain energy release rate derived is applied to investigate the influence of the crack location and the material gradient on the delamination fracture. The results obtained can be used to optimize the multilayered two-dimensional functionally graded beam structure with respect to the delamination fracture behaviour.

  20. Challenges and Opportunities for Using Crowd-Sourced Air Pollution Measurements for Education and Outreach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stanier, C. O.; Dong, C.; Janechek, N. J.; Bryngelson, N.; Schultz, P.; Heimbinder, M.

    2017-12-01

    As part of the CLE4R air quality education project, the University of Iowa has been working with AirBeam low-cost consumer-grade fine particulate matter (PM2.5) sensors in educational and outreach settings, both in K-12 environments and in informal settings such as science days and technology fairs. Users are attracted to the AirBeam device, in part, because of the easy creation of crowd-sourced maps of air pollution. With over 1000 AirBeam devices in use, extensive measurements are now available at aircasting.org. The AirBeam sensor is a portable, low-cost sensor which measures light scattering due to aerosols as a single bin converting the detected signal to a particle count and uses a calibration fit to estimate particle mass. The AirBeam is able to detect particle sizes of 0.5 - 2.5 µm, concentrations up to 400 µg m-3, and with a time resolution of 1 s. A corresponding Android device is used to visualize, record, and upload measured data to a community website (aircasting.org) that maps the spatial and temporal resolved data. The non-profit vendor's website constructs crowdsourced maps of air quality, environmental, and meteorological variables. As of April 1st, 2017, through the CLE4R project, 109 people had used the AirBeam sensors for educational purposes, for a total of 271 person hours. In the poster, we will explain the outreach that was done, and share best practices for education and outreach using consumer-grade PM sensors. Strengths and needed improvements to the technology for these outreach, education, and classroom uses will also be detailed. Sources of particles that can be artificially generated for educational use, including authentic smoke, spray smoke, and various dust sources will be enumerated. For use in K-12 classrooms, requirements for robust startup, operation, and ease-of-use are high. Mapping of concentrations is a desirable attribute but adds additional sources of failure to the hardware-software system used for education/outreach.

  1. Understanding Linear Functions and Their Representations

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Wells, Pamela J.

    2015-01-01

    Linear functions are an important part of the middle school mathematics curriculum. Students in the middle grades gain fluency by working with linear functions in a variety of representations (NCTM 2001). Presented in this article is an activity that was used with five eighth-grade classes at three different schools. The activity contains 15 cards…

  2. The association between sleep disordered breathing, academic grades, and cognitive and behavioral functioning among overweight subjects during middle to late childhood.

    PubMed

    Beebe, Dean W; Ris, M Douglas; Kramer, Megan E; Long, Elizabeth; Amin, Raouf

    2010-11-01

    (1) to determine the associations of sleep disordered breathing (SDB) with behavioral functioning, cognitive test scores, and school grades during middle- to late-childhood, an under-researched developmental period in the SDB literature, and (2) to clarify whether associations between SDB and school grades are mediated by deficits in cognitive or behavioral functioning. cross-sectional correlative study. Office/hospital, plus reported functioning at home and at school. 163 overweight subjects aged 10-16.9 years were divided into 4 groups based upon their obstructive apnea+hypopnea index (AHI) during overnight polysomnography and parent report of snoring: Moderate-Severe OSA (AHI > 5, n = 42), Mild OSA (AHI = 1-5, n = 58), Snorers (AHI < 1 + snoring, n = 26), and No SDB (AHI < 1 and nonsnoring, n = 37). inpatient overnight polysomnography, parent- and self-report of school grades and sleep, parent- and teacher-report of daytime behaviors, and office-based neuropsychological testing. The 4 groups significantly differed in academic grades and parent- and teacher-reported behaviors, particularly inattention and learning problems. These findings remained significant after adjusting for subject sex, race, socioeconomic status, and school night sleep duration. Associations with SDB were confined to reports of behavioral difficulties in real-world situations, and did not extend to office-based neuropsychological tests. Findings from secondary analyses were consistent with, but could not definitively confirm, a causal model in which SDB affects school grades via its impact on behavioral functioning. SDB during middle- to late-childhood is related to important aspects of behavioral functioning, especially inattention and learning difficulties, that may result in significant functional impairment at school.

  3. Comparison of cavity preparation quality using an electric motor handpiece and an air turbine dental handpiece.

    PubMed

    Kenyon, Brian J; Van Zyl, Ian; Louie, Kenneth G

    2005-08-01

    The high-speed high-torque (electric motor) handpiece is becoming more popular in dental offices and laboratories in the United States. It is reported to cut more precisely and to assist in the creation of finer margins that enhance cavity preparations. The authors conducted an in vitro study to compare the quality of cavity preparations fabricated with a high-speed high-torque (electric motor) handpiece and a high-speed low-torque (air turbine) handpiece. Eighty-six dental students each cut two Class I preparations, one with an air turbine handpiece and the other with an electric motor high-speed handpiece. The authors asked the students to cut each preparation accurately to a circular outline and to establish a flat pulpal floor with 1.5 millimeters' depth, 90-degree exit angles, parallel vertical walls and sharp internal line angles, as well as to refine the preparation to achieve flat, smooth walls with a well-defined cavosurface margin. A single faculty member scored the preparations for criteria and refinement using a nine-point scale (range, 1-9). The authors analyzed the data statistically using paired t tests. In preparation criteria, the electric motor high-speed handpiece had a higher average grade than did the air turbine handpiece (5.07 and 4.90, respectively). For refinement, the average grade for the air turbine high-speed handpiece was greater than that for the electric motor high-speed handpiece (5.72 and 5.52, respectively). The differences were not statistically significant. The electric motor high-speed handpiece performed as well as, but not better than, the air turbine handpiece in the fabrication of high-quality cavity preparations.

  4. Association of Leukoaraiosis With Convalescent Rehabilitation Outcome in Patients With Ischemic Stroke.

    PubMed

    Senda, Joe; Ito, Keiichi; Kotake, Tomomitsu; Kanamori, Masahiko; Kishimoto, Hideo; Kadono, Izumi; Suzuki, Yoshiro; Katsuno, Masahisa; Nishida, Yoshihiro; Ishiguro, Naoki; Sobue, Gen

    2016-01-01

    We investigated the factors influencing inpatient convalescent rehabilitation outcomes in patients with ischemic stroke, particularly severity of leukoaraiosis on magnetic resonance imaging. Participants included 520 patients with ischemic stroke (317 men and 203 women; mean age, 72.8±8.4 years) who were transferred from acute care hospitals for inpatient convalescent rehabilitation. Ischemic stroke subtypes included lacunar infarction (n=41), atherothrombosis (n=223), artery-to-artery embolism (n=67), cardiogenic embolism (n=97), undetermined embolism (n=76), and uncategorized ischemic stroke (n=16). Leukoaraiosis was graded according to periventricular hyperintensity (PVH) and deep white matter hyperintensity on magnetic resonance imaging. Functional Independence Measure scores were assessed on admission and at discharge. Multiple regression analysis revealed that rehabilitation outcomes, measured as total Functional Independence Measure scores, were significantly associated with leukoaraiosis estimated by PVH grade. This association was observed after adjustment for factors such as severity, age, and poststroke history. In all patients, PVH grades were associated with Functional Independence Measure motor scores (P<0.001), whereas in patients with artery-to-artery embolism or cardiogenic embolism and deep white matter hyperintensity grades were associated with Functional Independence Measure cognitive scores (P<0.05). Our study revealed that the degree of leukoaraiosis was associated with inpatient convalescent rehabilitation outcome in patients with ischemic stroke. Furthermore, the PVH grade was associated with motor function outcome, whereas the deep white matter hyperintensity grade correlated with cognitive function outcome, likely because the progression patterns and anatomic backgrounds of PVH and deep white matter hyperintensity differ according to ischemic stroke subtype. © 2015 American Heart Association, Inc.

  5. Correlation of resting and exercising endoscopic findings for horses with dynamic laryngeal collapse and palatal dysfunction.

    PubMed

    Barakzai, S Z; Dixon, P M

    2011-01-01

    To correlate resting and exercising endoscopic grades of laryngeal function in horses undergoing high-speed treadmill endoscopy (HSTE) using the Havemeyer grading system. To correlate dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) seen at rest with palatal function during exercise. Records of horses that underwent HSTE examination (1999-2009) were reviewed. Resting laryngeal function score and other abnormalities noted on resting endoscopy were recorded as were results of HSTE. Results of resting and exercising endoscopic findings were correlated. 281 horses underwent HSTE. There was significant correlation between grade of laryngeal function at rest (grades 1-4) and exercise (ρ=0.53, P<0.001) and between resting subgrades 3.1, 3.2 and 3.3 and exercising grades of laryngeal function (ρ=0.43, P=0.0017). DDSP was observed at rest significantly more often in horses that developed DDSP during HSTE than those without DDSP during HSTE (RR=4.1, P<0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of DDSP seen during resting endoscopy as a test for DDSP occurring during exercise were 25.5 and 95.1% respectively (positive predictive value 0.57, negative predictive value 0.83). The results of the current study support the use of the Havemeyer system for grading laryngeal function in the resting horse, and corroborate findings of previous studies correlating resting and exercising palatal abnormalities. Studies that use the presence of spontaneous DDSP during resting endoscopic examination as an inclusion criterion for investigating efficacy of treatments for DDSP are likely to have a low proportion of horses with false positive diagnoses. © 2010 EVJ Ltd.

  6. Does Grading Affect Educational Attainment? A Longitudinal Study

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Klapp, Alli

    2015-01-01

    The purpose of the study was to investigate how grading in primary school affected students' achievement measured by grades in 7th, 8th and 9th Grade and educational attainment in upper secondary school (12th Grade), and how the effect varied as a function of students' cognitive ability, gender and socio-economic status. The data derived from the…

  7. Toxicity and bioconcentration of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) in an air-breathing catfish, Saccobranchus fossilis (Bloch)

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

    Khangarot, B.S.; Takroo, R.; Singh, R.R.

    1991-12-01

    The current study was undertaken to determine the sublethal toxicity of commercial grade hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) to a freshwater air-breathing catfish, Saccobranchus fossilis (Bloch) for 14 days. The bioconcentration of HCH and its distribution in gill, brain and liver was determined. This species was selected for the present study because it is widely distributed in ponds, lakes and rivers of India and consumed as human diet in many parts of the world.

  8. Air Force Reading Abilities Test: Utilization Assessment.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-03-01

    the R&DI AFHRL. TR-78.82, Predichon of Reading Grade Li.s of Seim. AApdwo from Armed Serice. Vocaionaj Ap ude Batery (ASVAB); AFHRL.TR-80-11, Reading...4. Vocabulary words that showed a likelihood of being encountered in an Air Force work environment were to be selected. Esoteric adverbs and...is not only used in the Basic Military Training environment ; it is also utilized at every Base Education Office through the OJT program. As noted

  9. Multi-stage versus single-stage inflation and deflation cycle for alternating low pressure air mattresses to prevent pressure ulcers in hospitalised patients: a randomised-controlled clinical trial.

    PubMed

    Demarré, L; Beeckman, D; Vanderwee, K; Defloor, T; Grypdonck, M; Verhaeghe, S

    2012-04-01

    The duration and the amount of pressure and shear must be reduced in order to minimize the risk of pressure ulcer development. Alternating low pressure air mattresses with multi-stage inflation and deflation cycle of the air cells have been developed to relieve pressure by sequentially inflating and deflating the air cells. Evidence about the effectiveness of this type of mattress in clinical practice is lacking. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of an alternating low pressure air mattress that has a standard single-stage inflation and deflation cycle of the air cells with an alternating low pressure air mattress with multi-stage inflation and deflation cycle of the air cells. A randomised controlled trial was performed in a convenience sample of 25 wards in five hospitals in Belgium. In total, 610 patients were included and randomly assigned to the experimental group (n=298) or the control group (n=312). In the experimental group, patients were allocated to an alternating low pressure air mattress with multi-stage inflation and deflation cycle of the air cells. In the control group, patients were allocated to an alternating low pressure air mattress with a standard single-stage inflation and deflation cycle of the air cells. The outcome was defined as cumulative pressure ulcer incidence (Grade II-IV). An intention-to-treat analysis was performed. There was no significant difference in cumulative pressure ulcer incidence (Grade II-IV) between both groups (Exp.=5.7%, Contr.=5.8%, p=0.97). When patients developed a pressure ulcer, the median time was 5.0 days in the experimental group (IQR=3.0-8.5) and 8.0 days in the control group (IQR=3.0-8.5) (Mann-Whitney U-test=113, p=0.182). The probability to remain pressure ulcer free during the observation period in this trial did not differ significantly between the experimental group and the control group (log-rank χ(2)=0.013, df=1, p=0.911). An alternating low pressure air mattress with multi-stage inflation and deflation of the air cells does not result in a significantly lower pressure ulcer incidence compared to an alternating low pressure air mattress with a standard single-stage inflation and deflation cycle of the air cells. Both alternating mattress types are equally effective to prevent pressure ulcer development. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. [The clinical effect of anti-rotation reduction internal fixator on the treatment of fresh thoracolumbar spine fracture].

    PubMed

    Pan, Xianming; Quan, Yi; Tan, Yingjun; Zhang, Bo; Wang, Yuanshan; Huang, Tong; Ma, Zehui; Liao, Dongfa; Li, Ting; Liu, Jinbiao

    2005-03-15

    To evaluate the effect of self-designed anti-rotation reduction internal fixator (ARRIF) on treating different spine segment fracture. From August 1999 to March 2003, 76 patients(48 males and 28 females, aged from 22 to 59 with an average of 34.1) with thoracolumbar fracture were operatively treated by ARRIF. The follow-up period ranged from 6 to 21 months (15 months in average). Classification according to injury segment: flexion compression fracture 27 cases, burst fracture 42 cases, flexion distraction injury 3 cases, flexion revolving type fracture dislocation 2 cases, shear force type dislocation 2 cases. Classification according Frankel's grade: A grade 16 cases, B grade 15 cases, C grade 27 cases, D grade 10 cases, E grade 8 cases. Operation duration, volume of bleeding, incidence post-operation complication and effect of reduction-fixation were observed. The operation duration of ARRIF was 1.2 h in average, and there was about 200 ml volume of bleeding during operation. The nerve function showed one Frankel's grade improvement after operation were as follows: A grade 8 cases (50%), B grade 11 cases (73.3%), C grade 20 cases (74.1%), D grade 3 cases (30%); 2 Frankel's E cases have no nerve function changes. The nerve function damage have no aggravation in all the patients, the postoperation Cobb's angle was averagely corrected 22 degrees. The horizontal displacement of dislocation vertebrae was averagely corrected 28% in sagittal plane, the statistical analysis had significant variance (P < 0.01). ARRIF had no complications of the breakage of screws and rods. ARRIF proves to be a valid internal fixator in reducing and fixing different thoracic lumbar segment spine fracture.

  11. Parent-reported cognitive function is associated with leukoencephalopathy in children with brain tumors.

    PubMed

    Lai, Jin-Shei; Bregman, Corey; Zelko, Frank; Nowinski, Cindy; Cella, David; Beaumont, Jennifer J; Goldman, Stewart

    2017-09-01

    Cognitive dysfunction is a major concern for children with brain tumors. A valid, user-friendly screening tool could facilitate prompt referral for comprehensive neuropsychological assessments and therefore early intervention. Applications of the pediatric perceived cognitive function item bank (pedsPCF) such as computerized adaptive testing can potentially serve as such a tool given its brevity and user-friendly nature. This study aimed to evaluate whether pedsPCF was a valid indicator of cerebral compromise using the criterion of structural brain changes indicated by leukoencephalopathy grades. Data from 99 children (mean age = 12.6 years) with brain tumors and their parents were analyzed. Average time since diagnosis was 5.8 years; time since last treatment was 4.3 years. Leukoencephalopathy grade (range 0-4) was based on white matter damage and degree of deep white matter volume loss shown on MRI. Parents of patients completed the pedsPCF. Scores were based on the US general population-based T-score metric (mean = 50; SD = 10). Higher scores reflect better function. Leukoencephalopathy grade distributions were as follows: 36 grade 0, 27 grade 1, 22 grade 2, 13 grade 3, and 1 grade 4. The mean pedsPCF T-score was 48.3 (SD = 8.3; range 30.5-63.7). The pedsPCF scores significantly discriminated patients with different leukoencephalopathy grades, F = 4.14, p = 0.0084. Effect sizes ranged from 0.09 (grade 0 vs. 1) to 1.22 (grade 0 vs. 3/4). This study demonstrates that the pedsPCF is a valid indicator of leukoencephalopathy and provides support for its use as a screening tool for more comprehensive neurocognitive testing.

  12. Air quality assessment at a congested urban intersection

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2000-09-01

    The deficient transportation system of Beirut results in significant economic losses for the city and causes severe traffic congestion in the urban areas. Proposals have been made for grade separations at some of the worst congested intersections. Th...

  13. Collegiate Grading Practices and the Gender Pay Gap.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dowd, Alicia C.

    2000-01-01

    Presents a theoretical analysis showing that relatively low grading quantitative fields and high grading verbal fields create a disincentive for college women to invest in quantitative study. Extends research by R. Sabot and J. Wakeman-Linn. Models pressures on grading practices using higher education production functions. (Author/SLD)

  14. Catalytic combustion of residual fuels

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bulzan, D. L.; Tacina, R. R.

    1981-01-01

    A noble metal catalytic reactor was tested using two grades of petroleum derived residual fuels at specified inlet air temperatures, pressures, and reference velocities. Combustion efficiencies greater than 99.5 percent were obtained. Steady state operation of the catalytic reactor required inlet air temperatures of at least 800 K. At lower inlet air temperatures, upstream burning in the premixing zone occurred which was probably caused by fuel deposition and accumulation on the premixing zone walls. Increasing the inlet air temperature prevented this occurrence. Both residual fuels contained about 0.5 percent nitrogen by weight. NO sub x emissions ranged from 50 to 110 ppm by volume at 15 percent excess O2. Conversion of fuel-bound nitrogen to NO sub x ranged from 25 to 50 percent.

  15. Biologically plausible particulate air pollution mortality concentration-response functions.

    PubMed Central

    Roberts, Steven

    2004-01-01

    In this article I introduce an alternative method for estimating particulate air pollution mortality concentration-response functions. This method constrains the particulate air pollution mortality concentration-response function to be biologically plausible--that is, a non-decreasing function of the particulate air pollution concentration. Using time-series data from Cook County, Illinois, the proposed method yields more meaningful particulate air pollution mortality concentration-response function estimates with an increase in statistical accuracy. PMID:14998745

  16. Parental Autonomy Granting and School Functioning among Chinese Adolescents: The Moderating Role of Adolescents’ Cultural Values

    PubMed Central

    Wang, Cixin; Do, Kieu Anh; Bao, Leiping; Xia, Yan R.; Wu, Chaorong

    2017-01-01

    School adjustment and achievement are important indicators of adolescents’ well-being; however, few studies have examined the risk and protective factors predicting students’ school adjustment and achievement at the individual, familial, and cultural level. The present study examined the influences of individual and familial factors and cultural values on Chinese adolescents’ school functioning (e.g., school adjustment and grades). It also tested whether cultural values moderated the relationship between parenting and adolescents’ school functioning. Self-report data were collected from a stratified random sample of 2,864 adolescents (51.5% female, mean age = 15.52 years, grade 6th – 12th) from 55 classrooms, in 13 schools in Shanghai, China. Results showed that self-esteem (bse→adj = 0.05, SE = 0.01, p < 0.001; bse→grades = 0.08, SE = 0.02, p < 0.001), parent–adolescent conflict (bconflict→adj = -0.03, SE = 0.00, p < 0.001; bconflict→grades = -0.04, SE = 0.01, p < 0.001), and conformity to parental expectations (bconform→adj = -0.03, SE = 0.02, p < 0.05; bconform→grades = 0.10, SE = 0.04, p < 0.05) all had significant effects on both school adjustment and grades, respectively. More importantly, results showed that independent self-construal moderated the relationship between parental autonomy granting and adolescents’ grades (bindepxautom = 0.06, SE = 0.02, p < 0.01). The findings suggest that cultural values may influence adolescents’ appraisal of parental autonomy granting, which then impacts their school functioning. PMID:29326622

  17. Anatomical grades of nerve sparing: a risk-stratified approach to neural-hammock sparing during robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

    PubMed

    Tewari, Ashutosh K; Srivastava, Abhishek; Huang, Michael W; Robinson, Brian D; Shevchuk, Maria M; Durand, Matthieu; Sooriakumaran, Prasanna; Grover, Sonal; Yadav, Rajiv; Mishra, Nishant; Mohan, Sanjay; Brooks, Danielle C; Shaikh, Nusrat; Khanna, Abhinav; Leung, Robert

    2011-09-01

    • To report the potency and oncological outcomes of patients undergoing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) using a risk-stratified approach based on layers of periprostatic fascial dissection. • We also describe the surgical technique of complete hammock preservation or nerve sparing grade 1. • This is a retrospective study of 2317 patients who had robotic prostatectomy by a single surgeon at a single institution between January 2005 and June 2010. • Included patients were those with ≥ 1 year of follow-up and who were potent preoperatively, defined as having a sexual health inventory for men (SHIM) questionnaire score of >21; thus, the final number of patients in the study cohort was 1263. • Patients were categorized pre-operatively by a risk-stratified approach into risk grades 1-4, where risk grade 1 patients received nerve-sparing grade 1 or complete hammock preservation and so on for risk grades 2-4, as long as intraoperative findings permitted the planned nerve sparing. • We considered return to sexual function post-operatively by two criteria: i) ability to have successful intercourse (score of ≥ 4 on question 2 of the SHIM) and ii) SHIM >21 or return to baseline sexual function. • There was a significant difference across different NS grades in terms of the percentages of patients who had intercourse and returned to baseline sexual function (P < 0.001), with those that underwent NS grade 1 having the highest rates (90.9% and 81.7%) as compared to NS grades 2 (81.4% and 74.3%), 3 (73.5% and 66.1%), and 4 (62% and 54.5%). • The overall positive surgical margin (PSM) rates for patients with NS grades 1, 2, 3, and 4 were 9.9%, 8.1%, 7.2%, and 8.7%, respectively (P = 0.636). • The extraprostatic extension rates were 11.6%, 14.3%, 29.3%, and 36.2%, respectively (P < 0.001). • Similarly, in patients younger than 60, intercourse and return to baseline sexual function rates were 94.9% and 84.3% for NS grade 1 as compared to 85.5% and 77.2% for NS grades 2, 76.9% and 69% for NS grades 3, and 64.8% and 57.7% for NS Grade 4 (P < 0.001). • The risk-stratified approach and anatomical technique of neural-hammock sparing described in the present manuscript was effective in improving potency outcomes of patients without compromising cancer control. • Patients with greater degrees of NS had higher rates of intercourse and return to baseline sexual function without an increase in PSM rates. © 2011 THE AUTHORS. BJU INTERNATIONAL © 2011 BJU INTERNATIONAL.

  18. Ionization and Corona Discharges from Stressed Rocks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Winnick, M. J.; Kulahci, I.; Cyr, G.; Tregloan-Reed, J.; Freund, F. T.

    2008-12-01

    Pre-earthquake signals have long been observed and documented, though they have not been adequately explained scientifically. These signals include air ionization, occasional flashes of light from the ground, radio frequency emissions, and effects on the ionosphere that occur hours or even days before large earthquakes. The theory that rocks function as p-type semiconductors when deviatoric stresses are applied offers a mechanism for this group of earthquake precursors. When an igneous or high-grade metamorphic rock is subjected to deviatoric stresses, peroxy bonds that exist in the rock's minerals as point defects dissociate, releasing positive hole charge carriers. The positive holes travel by phonon-assisted electron hopping from the stressed into and through the unstressed rock volume and build up a positive surface charge. At sufficiently large electric fields, especially along edges and sharp points of the rock, air molecules become field-ionized, loosing an electron to the rock surface and turning into airborne positive ions. This in turn can lead to corona discharges, which manifest themselves by flashes of light and radio frequency emissions. We applied concentrated stresses to one end of a block of gabbro, 30 x 15 x 10 cm3, inside a shielded Faraday cage and observed positive ion currents through an air gap about 25 cm from the place where the stresses were applied, punctuated by short bursts, accompanied by flashes of light and radio frequency emissions characteristic of a corona discharge. These observations may serve to explain a range of pre-earthquake signals, in particular changes in air conductivity, luminous phenomena, radio frequency noise, and ionospheric perturbations.

  19. [Relationship between status of physical and mental function and quality of life among the elderly people admitted from long-term care insurance].

    PubMed

    Kim, Hyeong Seon; Bae, Nam Kyou; Kwon, In Sun; Cho, Young Chae

    2010-07-01

    This study was performed to determine the levels of quality of life (QOL) according to the grade of long-term care service for the elderly people who were admitted from long-term care insurance, and to reveal its association with the physical and mental functioning such as the Activity of Daily Living (ADL), the Instrumental Activity of Daily Living (IADL), the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the Mini-Mental State Examination-Korean version (MMSE-K). The interviews were performed during the period from March 1 to May 31, 2009, for 958 elderly people in urban and rural areas. The questionnaire items included various indices such as the ADL, IADL, CES-D, and MMSE-K, as independent variables and the index of QOL, as the dependent ones. For statistical analysis, t-tests were used for the mean scores of QOL according to gender and the grade of long-term care services, and Spearman's correlation was used for each variable. The effects of physical and mental functioning for QOL were assessed by covariance structure analysis. The statistical significance was set at p<0.05. The mean scores of QOL among all the subjects was 55.4 ± 15.62 (Grade I: 49.7 ± 14.17, Grade II: 56.8 ± 14.62, Grade III: 59.4 ± 16.36), and it was lower according to the higher grade of long-term care insurance. In terms of the correlation matrix of the QOL and the physical and mental function factors, the QOL showed positive correlation with the ADL, IADL and MMSE-K, while it had negative correlation with depression. On the analysis of covariance, mental functioning (depression and the MMSE-K) had a greater influence on the level of QOL than the physical functioning (ADL and IADL). The level of the QOL in the elderly people who were admitted from long-term care insurance was lower according to higher the grade of long-term care insurance. Also, the mental functioning (depression and MMSE-K) was more influential on the level of the QOL than the physical functioning (ADL and IADL).

  20. Physical Properties of Normal Grade Biodiesel and Winter Grade Biodiesel

    PubMed Central

    Sadrolhosseini, Amir Reza; Moksin, Mohd Maarof; Nang, Harrison Lau Lik; Norozi, Monir; Yunus, W. Mahmood Mat; Zakaria, Azmi

    2011-01-01

    In this study, optical and thermal properties of normal grade and winter grade palm oil biodiesel were investigated. Surface Plasmon Resonance and Photopyroelectric technique were used to evaluate the samples. The dispersion curve and thermal diffusivity were obtained. Consequently, the variation of refractive index, as a function of wavelength in normal grade biodiesel is faster than winter grade palm oil biodiesel, and the thermal diffusivity of winter grade biodiesel is higher than the thermal diffusivity of normal grade biodiesel. This is attributed to the higher palmitic acid C16:0 content in normal grade than in winter grade palm oil biodiesel. PMID:21731429

  1. Predictors of Recoverability of Renal Function after Pyeloplasty in Adults with Ureteropelvic Junction Obstruction.

    PubMed

    Li, Xiao-Dong; Wu, Yu-Peng; Wei, Yong; Chen, Shao-Hao; Zheng, Qing-Shui; Cai, Hai; Xue, Xue-Yi; Xu, Ning

    2018-01-01

    This study aimed to identify factors predicting the recoverability of renal function after pyeloplasty in adult patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction. We retrospectively reviewed 138 adults with unilateral renal obstruction-induced hydronephrosis and who underwent Anderson-Hynes dismembered pyeloplasty from January 2013 to January 2016. Hydronephrosis was classified preoperatively according to the Society for Fetal Urology (SFU) grading system. All patients underwent Doppler ultrasonography, excretory urography, computed tomography, and technetium-99m-diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid radioisotope (99mTc DTPA) renography before and after surgery. Renal resistive index (RRI) and 99mTc DTPA renography were repeated at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Multivariate analysis identified age, renal pelvic type, SFU grade, preoperative RRI, decline of RRI, and renal parenchyma to hydronephrosis area ratio (PHAR) as independent predictors of renal function recoverability after pyeloplasty. However, preoperative RRI and RRI decline were not significantly associated with recoverability of renal function in patients aged >35 years. Lower preoperative RRI, greater decline in RRI, higher PHAR, lower SFU grade, and extrarenal pelvis were associated with greater improvements in postoperative renal function. Preoperative differential renal function cannot independently predict the recoverability of postoperative renal function in adult patients with unilateral renal obstruction-induced hydronephrosis. SFU grade, renal pelvic type, PHAR, preoperative RRI, and decline in RRI were significantly associated with the recoverability of renal function in adult patients aged <35 years, while only SFU grade, renal pelvic type, and PHAR were significantly associated with renal function recoverability in patients aged ≥35 years. Renal function recovery was better in patients younger than 35 years when compared with older patients. © 2018 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  2. Does the Value of Dynamic Assessment in Predicting End-of-First-Grade Mathematics Performance Differ as a Function of English Language Proficiency?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Seethaler, Pamela M.; Fuchs, Lynn S.; Fuchs, Douglas; Compton, Donald L.

    2016-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to assess the added value of dynamic assessment (DA) beyond more conventional static measures for predicting individual differences in year-end 1st-grade calculation (CA) and word-problem (WP) performance, as a function of limited English proficiency (LEP) status. At the start of 1st grade, students (129 LEP; 163…

  3. Functional Grammar and Teaching of Reading--A Pedagogy Based on Graded Teaching of College English in China

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Xu, Tuo; Zhang, Beili

    2015-01-01

    This article discusses the importance of functional grammar and demonstrates its application to the teaching of reading among graded college students. Functional grammar holds that a discourse is composed of two levels: the interior level and the exterior level. Therefore, reading activities involve both linguistic elements and contexts.…

  4. Desiccant Enhanced Evaporative Air-Conditioning (DEVap): Evaluation of a New Concept in Ultra Efficient Air Conditioning

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

    Kozubal, E.; Woods, J.; Burch, J.

    2011-01-01

    NREL has developed the novel concept of a desiccant enhanced evaporative air conditioner (DEVap) with the objective of combining the benefits of liquid desiccant and evaporative cooling technologies into an innovative 'cooling core.' Liquid desiccant technologies have extraordinary dehumidification potential, but require an efficient cooling sink. DEVap's thermodynamic potential overcomes many shortcomings of standard refrigeration-based direct expansion cooling. DEVap decouples cooling and dehumidification performance, which results in independent temperature and humidity control. The energy input is largely switched away from electricity to low-grade thermal energy that can be sourced from fuels such as natural gas, waste heat, solar, or biofuels.

  5. Software Reviews.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McGrath, Diane, Ed.

    1989-01-01

    Reviewed are two computer software programs for Apple II computers on weather for upper elementary and middle school grades. "Weather" introduces the major factors (temperature, humidity, wind, and air pressure) affecting weather. "How Weather Works" uses simulation and auto-tutorial formats on sun, wind, fronts, clouds, and…

  6. Education

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2003-01-01

    Frank Sosa, Dept. of the Air Force Col Juan Urbano , Peruvian Army Dr. Francis A’Hearn, Faculty Prof. William Mayall, Faculty COL Mark McGuire...insufficient time to meet job requirements such as planning lessons to grading papers, to participating in mandatory training to phoning parents to...

  7. Teacher-Student Interactions in Fifth Grade Classrooms: Relations with Children's Peer Behavior

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Luckner, Amy E.; Pianta, Robert C.

    2011-01-01

    This study investigates the extent to which teacher-student interactions in fifth grade classrooms are associated with peer behavior in fifth grade, accounting for prior peer functioning. Participants included 894 fifth grade students from the NICHD Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development. The quality of teacher-student interactions…

  8. An Analysis of the Impact of Job Search Behaviors on Air Force Company Grade Officer Turnover

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-03-01

    pilot tested on Air Force CGOs. Participants were given the definition of passive job search and active job search used in this research effort, and...identifying these different groups and testing the modified model separately within each could yield more accuracy in predicting turnover. This research ...the model the same way. Use of the pseudo R 2 , and the reported statistics and the table design were done in the same manner as previous research

  9. LOFT. Containment and service building (TAN650). Section through east/west axis ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    LOFT. Containment and service building (TAN-650). Section through east/west axis of building as viewed from the south. Shows basement and grade levels of containment building, connection to control room on west side, air filter vaults, and duct enclosure for air exhaust system. Kaiser engineers 6413-11-STEP/LOFT-650-A-4. Date: October 1964. INEEL index code no. 036-650-00-486-122216 - Idaho National Engineering Laboratory, Test Area North, Scoville, Butte County, ID

  10. A priori mesh grading for the numerical calculation of the head-related transfer functions

    PubMed Central

    Ziegelwanger, Harald; Kreuzer, Wolfgang; Majdak, Piotr

    2017-01-01

    Head-related transfer functions (HRTFs) describe the directional filtering of the incoming sound caused by the morphology of a listener’s head and pinnae. When an accurate model of a listener’s morphology exists, HRTFs can be calculated numerically with the boundary element method (BEM). However, the general recommendation to model the head and pinnae with at least six elements per wavelength renders the BEM as a time-consuming procedure when calculating HRTFs for the full audible frequency range. In this study, a mesh preprocessing algorithm is proposed, viz., a priori mesh grading, which reduces the computational costs in the HRTF calculation process significantly. The mesh grading algorithm deliberately violates the recommendation of at least six elements per wavelength in certain regions of the head and pinnae and varies the size of elements gradually according to an a priori defined grading function. The evaluation of the algorithm involved HRTFs calculated for various geometric objects including meshes of three human listeners and various grading functions. The numerical accuracy and the predicted sound-localization performance of calculated HRTFs were analyzed. A-priori mesh grading appeared to be suitable for the numerical calculation of HRTFs in the full audible frequency range and outperformed uniform meshes in terms of numerical errors, perception based predictions of sound-localization performance, and computational costs. PMID:28239186

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

    Silva, F. S.

    Functionally graded components exhibit spatial variations of mechanical properties in contrast with, and as an alternative to, purely homogeneous components. A large class of graded materials, however, are in fact mostly homogeneous materials with property variations (chemical or mechanical) restricted to a specific area or layer produced by applying for example a coating or by introducing sub-surface residual stresses. However, it is also possible to obtain graded materials with a smooth transition of mechanical properties along the entire component, for example in a 40 mm component. This is possible, for example, by using centrifugal casting technique or incremental melting andmore » solidification technique. In this paper we will study fully metallic functionally graded components with a smooth gradient, focusing on fatigue crack propagation. Fatigue propagation will be assessed in the direction parallel to the gradation (in different homogeneous layers of the functionally graded component) to assess what would be fatigue crack propagation on the direction perpendicular to the gradation. Fatigue crack growth rate (standard mode I fatigue crack growth) will be correlated to the mode I stress intensity factor range. Other mechanical properties of different layers of the component (Young's modulus) will also be considered in this analysis. The effect of residual stresses along the component gradation on crack propagation will also be taken into account. A qualitative analysis of the effects of some important features, present in functionally graded materials, will be made based on the obtained results.« less

  12. A longitudinal study of visual function in carriers of X-linked recessive retinitis pigmentosa.

    PubMed

    Grover, S; Fishman, G A; Anderson, R J; Lindeman, M

    2000-02-01

    This study was carried out to evaluate the progression of visual function impairment in carriers of X-linked recessive retinitis pigmentosa. We also assessed the relationship between the retinal findings at presentation and the extent of deterioration. Observational, retrospective, case series. Twenty-seven carriers of X-linked recessive retinitis pigmentosa. Each carrier was clinically categorized into one of four grades (grades 0 through 3) depending on the presence or absence of a tapetal-like retinal reflex and the extent of peripheral pigmentary degeneration. A complete ophthalmologic examination was performed and data for visual acuity, visual field area, and electroretinographic measurements were collected on the most recent visit in both eyes. These were then compared with similar data obtained on their initial visits. A comparison of visual function was carried out between the initial visit and the most recent visit on each carrier. The visual acuity was measured with Snellen's acuity charts. The visual fields to targets V-4-e and II-4-e were planimeterized and used for the analysis. The electroretinographic (ERG) measures used were light-adapted single-flash b-wave amplitudes and 30-Hz red flicker for cone function, dark-adapted maximal b-wave amplitudes, and response to a low intensity blue-flash for rod function. None of the 11 carriers with a tapetal-like reflex only (grade 1) showed any significant change in visual acuity or fields as compared with 3 of 7 (43%) carriers with diffuse peripheral pigmentary findings (grade 3) who showed significant deterioration in visual acuity in at least one eye, and 6 of 7 (86%) who showed a significant decrease in visual field area with at least one target size in at least one eye. By comparison, only 1 of 10 carriers with a grade 1 fundus finding demonstrated a significant decrease in maximal dark-adapted ERG function as compared with 5 of 6 (83%) carriers with grade 3 in response to a single-flash stimulus and with 4 of 5 (80%) carriers in response to a single-flash blue stimulus. For the single-flash photopic response, none of the 10 carriers with grade 1 showed any significant deterioration, whereas 2 of 4 (50%) with grade 3 did show such deterioration. The ERG responses for carriers with grade 2 were in between the extent of decrease in ERG amplitudes of those in carriers with grades 1 and 3. In our cohort of X-linked retinitis pigmentosa carriers, those with only a tapetal-like retinal reflex at presentation had a better prognosis to retain visual function than those with peripheral retinal pigmentation. These data are useful in counseling such carriers as to their visual prognosis.

  13. Freeze Tape Casting of Functionally Graded Porous Ceramics

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Sofie, Stephen W.

    2007-01-01

    Freeze tape casting is a means of making preforms of ceramic sheets that, upon subsequent completion of fabrication processing, can have anisotropic and/or functionally graded properties that notably include aligned and graded porosity. Freeze tape casting was developed to enable optimization of the microstructures of porous ceramic components for use as solid oxide electrodes in fuel cells: Through alignment and grading of pores, one can tailor surface areas and diffusion channels for flows of gas and liquid species involved in fuel-cell reactions. Freeze tape casting offers similar benefits for fabrication of optimally porous ceramics for use as catalysts, gas sensors, and filters.

  14. Active vibration control of functionally graded beams with piezoelectric layers based on higher order shear deformation theory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bendine, K.; Boukhoulda, F. B.; Nouari, M.; Satla, Z.

    2016-12-01

    This paper reports on a study of active vibration control of functionally graded beams with upper and lower surface-bonded piezoelectric layers. The model is based on higher-order shear deformation theory and implemented using the finite element method (FEM). The proprieties of the functionally graded beam (FGB) are graded along the thickness direction. The piezoelectric actuator provides a damping effect on the FGB by means of a velocity feedback control algorithm. A Matlab program has been developed for the FGB model and compared with ANSYS APDL. Using Newmark's method numerical solutions are obtained for the dynamic equations of FGB with piezoelectric layers. Numerical results show the effects of the constituent volume fraction and the influence the feedback control gain on the frequency and dynamic response of FGBs.

  15. Kinetic magnetic resonance imaging analysis of abnormal segmental motion of the functional spine unit.

    PubMed

    Kong, Min Ho; Hymanson, Henry J; Song, Kwan Young; Chin, Dong Kyu; Cho, Yong Eun; Yoon, Do Heum; Wang, Jeffrey C

    2009-04-01

    The authors conducted a retrospective observational study using kinetic MR imaging to investigate the relationship between instability, abnormal sagittal segmental motion, and radiographic variables consisting of intervertebral disc degeneration, facet joint osteoarthritis (FJO), degeneration of the interspinous ligaments, ligamentum flavum hypertrophy (LFH), and the status of the paraspinal muscles. Abnormal segmental motion, defined as > 10 degrees angulation and > 3 mm of translation in the sagittal plane, was investigated in 1575 functional spine units (315 patients) in flexion, neutral, and extension postures using kinetic MR imaging. Each segment was assessed based on the extent of disc degeneration (Grades I-V), FJO (Grades 1-4), interspinous ligament degeneration (Grades 1-4), presence of LFH, and paraspinal muscle fatty infiltration observed on kinetic MR imaging. These factors are often noted in patients with degenerative disease, and there are grading systems to describe these changes. For the first time, the authors attempted to address the relationship between these radiographic observations and the effects on the motion and instability of the functional spine unit. The prevalence of abnormal translational motion was significantly higher in patients with Grade IV degenerative discs and Grade 3 arthritic facet joints (p < 0.05). In patients with advanced disc degeneration and FJO, there was a lesser amount of motion in both segmental translation and angulation when compared with lower grades of degeneration, and this difference was statistically significant for angular motion (p < 0.05). Patients with advanced degenerative Grade 4 facet joint arthritis had a significantly lower percentage of abnormal angular motion compared to patients with normal facet joints (p < 0.001). The presence of LFH was strongly associated with abnormal translational and angular motion. Grade 4 interspinous ligament degeneration and the presence of paraspinal muscle fatty infiltration were both significantly associated with excessive abnormal angular motion (p < 0.05). This kinetic MR imaging analysis showed that the lumbar functional unit with more disc degeneration, FJO, and LFH had abnormal sagittal plane translation and angulation. These findings suggest that abnormal segmental motion noted on kinetic MR images is closely associated with disc degeneration, FJO, and the pathological characteristics of interspinous ligaments, ligamentum flavum, and paraspinal muscles. Kinetic MR imaging in patients with mechanical back pain may prove a valuable source of information about the stability of the functional spine unit by measuring abnormal segmental motion and grading of radiographic parameters simultaneously.

  16. An Analysis of Grade 11 Learners' Levels of Understanding of Functions in Terms of APOS Theory

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Chimhande, Tinoda; Naidoo, Ana; Stols, Gerrit

    2017-01-01

    This article reports on a study of six Grade 11 learners' levels of understanding of concepts related to the function definition and representation. Task-based clinical interviews were used to elicit the learners' interpretations and reasoning when working with these function-related concepts. Indicators for Action-Process-Object-Schema (APOS)…

  17. A Preliminary Study of Bully and Victim Behavior in Old-for-Grade Students: Another Potential Hidden Cost of Grade Retention or Delayed School Entry

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Crothers, Laura M.; Schreiber, James B.; Schmitt, Ara J.; Bell, G. Ronald; Blasik, Jessica; Comstock, Leigh A.; Greisler, Michael J.; Keener, Dana; King, Jamie M.; Lipinski, John

    2010-01-01

    Mounting evidence suggests that being an old-for-grade student, as a result of grade retention or delayed school entry, is related to negative outcomes across various domains of functioning. No known study has examined the relations between old-for-grade status and specific childhood/adolescent bully and victim behaviors. The first purpose of this…

  18. Assessment of Thermal Performance of Functionally Graded Materials in Longitudinal Fins

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hassanzadeh, R.; Bilgili, M.

    2018-01-01

    Assessment of the thermal characteristics of materials in heat exchangers with longitudinal fins is performed in the case where a conventional homogeneous material of a longitudinal fin is replaced by a functionally graded one, in which the fin material properties, such as the conductivity, are assumed to be graded as linear and power-law functions along the normal axis from the fin base to the fin tip. The resulting equations are calculated under two (Dirichlet and Neumann) boundary conditions. The equations are solved by an approximate analytical method with the use of the mean value theorem. The results show that the inhomogeneity index of a functionally graded material plays an important role for the thermal energy characteristics in such heat exchangers. In addition, it is observed that the use of such a material in longitudinal fins enhances the rate of heat transfer between the fin surface and surrounding fluid. Hopefully, the results obtained in the study will arouse interest of designers in heat exchange industry.

  19. Design, Manufacturing and Characterization of Functionally Graded Flextensional Piezoelectric Actuators

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Amigo, R. C. R.; Vatanabe, S. L.; Silva, E. C. N.

    2013-03-01

    Previous works have been shown several advantages in using Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs) for the performance of flextensional devices, such as reduction of stress concentrations and gains in reliability. In this work, the FGM concept is explored in the design of graded devices by using the Topology Optimization Method (TOM), in order to determine optimal topologies and gradations of the coupled structures of piezoactuators. The graded pieces are manufactured by using the Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) technique and are bonded to piezoelectric ceramics. The graded actuators are then tested by using a modular vibrometer system for measuring output displacements, in order to validate the numerical simulations. The technological path developed here represents the initial step toward the manufacturing of an integral piezoelectric device, constituted by piezoelectric and non-piezoelectric materials without bonding layers.

  20. Parental Autonomy Granting and School Functioning among Chinese Adolescents: The Moderating Role of Adolescents' Cultural Values.

    PubMed

    Wang, Cixin; Do, Kieu Anh; Bao, Leiping; Xia, Yan R; Wu, Chaorong

    2017-01-01

    School adjustment and achievement are important indicators of adolescents' well-being; however, few studies have examined the risk and protective factors predicting students' school adjustment and achievement at the individual, familial, and cultural level. The present study examined the influences of individual and familial factors and cultural values on Chinese adolescents' school functioning (e.g., school adjustment and grades). It also tested whether cultural values moderated the relationship between parenting and adolescents' school functioning. Self-report data were collected from a stratified random sample of 2,864 adolescents (51.5% female, mean age = 15.52 years, grade 6th - 12th) from 55 classrooms, in 13 schools in Shanghai, China. Results showed that self-esteem ( b se→adj = 0.05, SE = 0.01, p < 0.001; b se→grades = 0.08, SE = 0.02, p < 0.001), parent-adolescent conflict ( b conflict→adj = -0.03, SE = 0.00, p < 0.001; b conflict→grades = -0.04, SE = 0.01, p < 0.001), and conformity to parental expectations ( b conform→adj = -0.03, SE = 0.02, p < 0.05; b conform→grades = 0.10, SE = 0.04, p < 0.05) all had significant effects on both school adjustment and grades, respectively. More importantly, results showed that independent self-construal moderated the relationship between parental autonomy granting and adolescents' grades ( b indepxautom = 0.06, SE = 0.02, p < 0.01). The findings suggest that cultural values may influence adolescents' appraisal of parental autonomy granting, which then impacts their school functioning.

  1. Cytotoxicity of Protein-Carbon Nanotubes on J774 Macrophages Is a Functionalization Grade-Dependent Effect

    PubMed Central

    Montes-Fonseca, Silvia Lorena; Sánchez-Ramírez, Blanca; Luna-Velasco, Antonia; Arzate-Quintana, Carlos; Silva-Cazares, Macrina Beatriz; González Horta, Carmen

    2015-01-01

    Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are used as carriers in medicine due to their ability to be functionalized with chemical substances. However, cytotoxicity analysis is required prior to use for in vivo models. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxic effect of CNTs functionalized with a 46 kDa surface protein from Entamoeba histolytica (P46-CNTs) on J774A macrophages. With this purpose, CNTs were synthesized by spray pyrolysis and purified (P-CNTs) using sonication for 48 h. A 46 kDa protein, with a 4.6–5.4 pI range, was isolated from E. histolytica HM1:IMSS strain trophozoites using an OFFGEL system. The P-CNTs were functionalized with the purified 46 kDa protein, classified according to their degree of functionalization, and characterized by Raman and Infrared spectroscopy. In vitro cytotoxicity was evaluated by MTT, apoptosis, and morphological assays. The results demonstrated that P46-CNTs exhibited cytotoxicity dependent upon the functionalized grade. Contrary to what was expected, P46-CNTs with a high grade of functionalization were more toxic to J774 macrophages than P46-CNTs with a low grade of functionalization, than P-CNTs, and had a similar level of toxicity as UP-CNT. This suggests that the nature of the functionalized protein plays a key role in the cytotoxicity of these nanoparticles. PMID:26075262

  2. Evaluation of pavement permeability in Mississippi.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2003-07-01

    The proper compaction of hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavements is vital for a stable and durable pavement. For dense-graded mixtures, it has been recommended that the initial in-place air voids at the time of construction should not be below 3 percent or a...

  3. Science Unlimited: Grades K-6 Competency Matrix.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Pennsylvania State Dept. of Education, Harrisburg. Div. of Arts and Sciences.

    This competency matrix matches the primary and intermediate Science Unlimited lessons with the established competencies which appear in the Science Unlimited competency continuum. Primary lessons deal with: investigating dripping faucets; classification/sorting; smell; eyes; color; air; weather; observation and description; mystery boxes; change;…

  4. Analogies between Kirchhoff plates and functionally graded Saint-Venant beams under torsion

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Barretta, Raffaele; Luciano, Raimondo

    2015-05-01

    Exact solutions of elastic Kirchhoff plates are available only for special geometries, loadings and kinematic boundary constraints. An effective solution procedure, based on an analogy between functionally graded orthotropic Saint-Venant beams under torsion and inhomogeneous isotropic Kirchhoff plates, with no kinematic boundary constraints, is proposed. The result extends the one contributed in Barretta (Acta Mech 224(12):2955-2964, 2013) for the special case of homogeneous Saint-Venant beams under torsion. Closed-form solutions for displacement, bending-twisting moment and curvature fields of an elliptic plate, corresponding to a functionally graded orthotropic beam, are evaluated. A new benchmark for computational mechanics is thus provided.

  5. Graded-index fibers, Wigner-distribution functions, and the fractional Fourier transform.

    PubMed

    Mendlovic, D; Ozaktas, H M; Lohmann, A W

    1994-09-10

    Two definitions of a fractional Fourier transform have been proposed previously. One is based on the propagation of a wave field through a graded-index medium, and the other is based on rotating a function's Wigner distribution. It is shown that both definitions are equivalent. An important result of this equivalency is that the Wigner distribution of a wave field rotates as the wave field propagates through a quadratic graded-index medium. The relation with ray-optics phase space is discussed.

  6. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor expression is associated with a family history of upper gastrointestinal tract cancer in a high-risk population exposed to aromatic hydrocarbons

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

    Roth, M.J.; Wei, W.Q.; Baer, J.

    2009-09-15

    Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure is a risk factor for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and PAHs are ligands of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). This study measured the expression of AhR and related genes in frozen esophageal cell samples from patients exposed to different levels of indoor air pollution, who did or did not have high-grade squamous dysplasia and who did or did not have a family history of upper gastrointestinal tract (UGI) cancer. 147 samples were evaluated, including 23 (16%) from patients with high-grade dysplasia and 48 (33%) from patients without dysplasia who heated their homes with coal, withoutmore » a chimney (a 'high' indoor air pollution group), and 27 (18%) from patients with high-grade dysplasia and 49 (33%) from patients without dysplasia who did not heat their homes at all (a 'low' indoor air pollution group). Sixty-four (44%) had a family history of UGI cancer. RNA was extracted and quantitative PCR analysis was done. AhR gene expression was detectable in 85 (58%) of the samples and was >9-fold higher in those with a family history of UGI cancer (median expression (interquartile range), -1,964 (-18,000, -610) versus -18,000 (-18,000, -1036); P = 0.02, Wilcoxon rank-sum test). Heating status, dysplasia category, age, gender, and smoking were not associated with AhR expression (linear regression; all P values {ge} 0.1). AhR expression was higher in patients with a family history of UGI cancer. Such individuals may be more susceptible to the deleterious effects of PAH exposure, including PAH-induced cancer.« less

  7. Lightweight thermal energy recovery system based on shape memory alloys: a DOE ARPA-E initiative

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Browne, Alan L.; Keefe, Andrew C.; Alexander, Paul W.; Mankame, Nilesh; Usoro, Patrick; Johnson, Nancy L.; Aase, Jan; Sarosi, Peter; McKnight, Geoffrey P.; Herrera, Guillermo; Churchill, Christopher; Shaw, John; Brown, Jeff

    2012-04-01

    Over 60% of energy that is generated is lost as waste heat with close to 90% of this waste heat being classified as low grade being at temperatures less than 200°C. Many technologies such as thermoelectrics have been proposed as means for harvesting this lost thermal energy. Among them, that of SMA (shape memory alloy) heat engines appears to be a strong candidate for converting this low grade thermal output to useful mechanical work. Unfortunately, though proposed initially in the late 60's and the subject of significant development work in the 70's, significant technical roadblocks have existed preventing this technology from moving from a scientific curiosity to a practical reality. This paper/presentation provides an overview of the work performed on SMA heat engines under the US DOE (Department of Energy) ARPA-E (Advanced Research Projects Agency - Energy) initiative. It begins with a review of the previous art, covers the identified technical roadblocks to past advancement, presents the solution path taken to remove these roadblocks, and describes significant breakthroughs during the project. The presentation concludes with details of the functioning prototypes developed, which, being able to operate in air as well as fluids, dramatically expand the operational envelop and make significant strides towards the ultimate goal of commercial viability.

  8. Influence of functionally graded pores on bone ingrowth in cementless hip prosthesis: a finite element study using mechano-regulatory algorithm.

    PubMed

    Tarlochan, Faris; Mehboob, Hassan; Mehboob, Ali; Chang, Seung-Hwan

    2018-06-01

    Cementless hip prostheses with porous outer coating are commonly used to repair the proximally damaged femurs. It has been demonstrated that stability of prosthesis is also highly dependent on the bone ingrowth into the porous texture. Bone ingrowth is influenced by the mechanical environment produced in the callus. In this study, bone ingrowth into the porous structure was predicted by using a mechano-regulatory model. Homogenously distributed pores (200 and 800 [Formula: see text]m in diameter) and functionally graded pores along the length of the prosthesis were introduced as a porous coating. Bone ingrowth was simulated using 25 and 12 [Formula: see text]m micromovements. Load control simulations were carried out instead of traditionally used displacement control. Spatial and temporal distributions of tissues were predicted in all cases. Functionally graded pore decreasing models gave the most homogenous bone distribution, the highest bone ingrowth (98%) with highest average Young's modulus of all tissue phenotypes approximately 4.1 GPa. Besides this, the volume of the initial callus increased to 8.33% in functionally graded pores as compared to the 200 [Formula: see text]m pore size models which increased the bone volume. These findings indicate that functionally graded porous surface promote bone ingrowth efficiently which can be considered to design of surface texture of hip prosthesis.

  9. Determining the Source of Water Vapor in a Cerium Oxide Electrochemical Oxygen Separator to Achieve Aviator Grade Oxygen

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Graf, John; Taylor, Dale; Martinez, James

    2014-01-01

    More than a metric ton of water is transported to the International Space Station (ISS) each year to provide breathing oxygen for the astronauts. Water is a safe and compact form of stored oxygen. The water is electrolyzed on ISS and ambient pressure oxygen is delivered to the cabin. A much smaller amount of oxygen is used each year in spacesuits to conduct Extra Vehicular Activities (EVAs). Space suits need high pressure (>1000 psia) high purity oxygen (must meet Aviator Breathing Oxygen "ABO" specifications, >99.5% O2). The water / water electrolysis system cannot directly provide high pressure, high purity oxygen, so oxygen for EVAs is transported to ISS in high pressure gas tanks. The tanks are relatively large and heavy, and the majority of the system launch weight is for the tanks and not the oxygen. Extracting high purity oxygen from cabin air and mechanically compressing the oxygen might enable on-board production of EVA grade oxygen using the existing water / water electrolysis system. This capability might also benefit human spaceflight missions, where oxygen for EVAs could be stored in the form of water, and converted into high pressure oxygen on-demand. Cerium oxide solid electrolyte-based ion transport membranes have been shown to separate oxygen from air, and a supported monolithic wafer form of the CeO2 electrolyte membrane has been shown to deliver oxygen at pressures greater than 300 psia. These supported monolithic wafers can withstand high pressure differentials even though the membrane is very thin, because the ion transport membrane is supported on both sides (Fig 1). The monolithic supported wafers have six distinct layers, each with matched coefficients of thermal expansion. The wafers are assembled into a cell stack which allows easy air flow across the wafers, uniform current distribution, and uniform current density (Fig 2). The oxygen separation is reported to be "infinitely selective" to oxygen [1] with reported purity of 99.99% [2]. Combined with a mechanical compressor, a Solid Electrolyte Oxygen Separator (SEOS) should be capable of producing ABO grade oxygen at pressures >2400 psia, on the space station. Feasibility tests using a SEOS integrated with a mechanical compressor identified an unexpected contaminant in the oxygen: water vapour was found in the oxygen product, sometimes at concentrations higher than 40 ppm (the ABO limit for water vapour is 7 ppm). If solid electrolyte membranes are really "infinitely selective" to oxygen as they are reported to be, where did the water come from? If water is getting into the oxygen, what other contaminants might get into the oxygen? Microscopic analyses of wafers, welds, and oxygen delivery tubes were performed in an attempt to find the source of the water vapour contamination. Hot and cold pressure decay tests were performed. Measurements of water vapour as a function of O2 delivery rate, O2 delivery pressure, and process air humidity levels were the most instructive in finding the source of water contamination (Fig 3). Water contamination was directly affected by oxygen delivery rate (doubling the oxygen production rate cut the water level in half). Water was affected by process air humidity levels and delivery pressure in a way that indicates the water was diffusing into the oxygen delivery system.

  10. Presence of transient hydronephrosis immediately after surgery has a limited influence on renal function 1 year after ileal neobladder construction.

    PubMed

    Narita, Takuma; Hatakeyama, Shingo; Koie, Takuya; Hosogoe, Shogo; Matsumoto, Teppei; Soma, Osamu; Yamamoto, Hayato; Yoneyama, Tohru; Tobisawa, Yuki; Yoneyama, Takahiro; Hashimoto, Yasuhiro; Ohyama, Chikara

    2017-08-31

    Urinary tract obstruction and postoperative hydronephrosis are risk factor for renal function deterioration after orthotopic ileal neobladder construction. However, reports of relationship between transient hydronephrosis and renal function are limited. We assess the influence of postoperative transient hydronephrosis on renal function in patients with orthotopic ileal neobladder construction. Between January 2006 and June 2013, we performed radical cystectomy in 164 patients, and 101 received orthotopic ileal neobladder construction. This study included data available from 64 patients with 128 renal units who were enrolled retrospectively. The hydronephrosis grade of each renal unit scored 0-4. The patients were divided into 4 groups according to the grade of hydronephrosis: control, low, intermediate, and high. The grade of postoperative hydronephrosis was compared with renal function 1 month and 1 year after surgery. There were no significant differences in renal function before surgery between groups. One month after surgery, the presence of hydronephrosis was significantly associated with decreased renal function. However, 1 year after urinary diversion hydronephrosis grades were improved significantly, and renal function was comparable between groups. Postoperative hydronephrosis at 1 month had no significant influence on renal function 1 year after ileal neobladder construction. Limitations include retrospective design, short follow-up periods, and a sample composition. The presence of transient hydronephrosis immediately after surgery may have limited influence on renal function 1 year after ileal neobladder construction.

  11. 7 CFR 1250.349 - Collecting handlers and collection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... RESEARCH AND PROMOTION Egg Research and Promotion Order Expenses and Assessments § 1250.349 Collecting... by producers and who grades, cartons, breaks, or otherwise performs a function of a handler under § 1250.309, (2) A producer who grades, cartons, breaks, or otherwise performs a function of a handler...

  12. 7 CFR 1250.349 - Collecting handlers and collection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... RESEARCH AND PROMOTION Egg Research and Promotion Order Expenses and Assessments § 1250.349 Collecting... by producers and who grades, cartons, breaks, or otherwise performs a function of a handler under § 1250.309, (2) A producer who grades, cartons, breaks, or otherwise performs a function of a handler...

  13. 7 CFR 1250.349 - Collecting handlers and collection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... RESEARCH AND PROMOTION Egg Research and Promotion Order Expenses and Assessments § 1250.349 Collecting... by producers and who grades, cartons, breaks, or otherwise performs a function of a handler under § 1250.309, (2) A producer who grades, cartons, breaks, or otherwise performs a function of a handler...

  14. 7 CFR 1250.349 - Collecting handlers and collection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... RESEARCH AND PROMOTION Egg Research and Promotion Order Expenses and Assessments § 1250.349 Collecting... by producers and who grades, cartons, breaks, or otherwise performs a function of a handler under § 1250.309, (2) A producer who grades, cartons, breaks, or otherwise performs a function of a handler...

  15. 7 CFR 1250.349 - Collecting handlers and collection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... RESEARCH AND PROMOTION Egg Research and Promotion Order Expenses and Assessments § 1250.349 Collecting... by producers and who grades, cartons, breaks, or otherwise performs a function of a handler under § 1250.309, (2) A producer who grades, cartons, breaks, or otherwise performs a function of a handler...

  16. Advanced Placement Mathematics Calculus, Grade 12 Curriculum Guide.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Scharf, John; And Others

    This document is a guide to the advanced placement program in calculus for grade 12 in the city schools in Warren, Ohio. The program covers analytic geometry, differential and integral calculus of algebraic functions, elementary transcendental functions, and applications of differentiation and integration. The philosophy and aims of the program…

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

    Liu Yong; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996; Liu Fengxiao

    Cemented carbides with a functionally graded structure have significantly improved mechanical properties and lifetimes in cutting, drilling and molding. In this work, WC-6 wt.% Co cemented carbides with three-layer graded structure (surface layer rich in WC, mid layer rich in Co and the inner part of the average composition) were prepared by carburizing pre-sintered {eta}-phase-containing cemented carbides. The three-point bending fatigue tests based on the total-life approach were conducted on both WC-6wt%Co functionally graded cemented carbides (FGCC) and conventional WC-6wt%Co cemented carbides. The functionally graded cemented carbide shows a slightly higher fatigue limit ({approx}100 MPa) than the conventional ones undermore » the present testing conditions. However, the fatigue crack nucleation behavior of FGCC is different from that of the conventional ones. The crack nucleates preferentially along the Co-gradient and perpendicular to the tension surface in FGCC, while parallel to the tension surface in conventional cemented carbides.« less

  18. Is the Sky Falling? Grade Inflation and the Signaling Power of Grades

    PubMed Central

    Pattison, Evangeleen; Grodsky, Eric; Muller, Chandra

    2014-01-01

    Grades are the fundamental currency of our educational system; they signal academic achievement and non-cognitive skills to parents, employers, postsecondary gatekeepers, and students themselves. Grade inflation compromises the signaling value of grades, undermining their capacity to achieve the functions for which they are intended. We challenge the ‘increases in grade point average’ definition of grade inflation and argue that grade inflation must be understood in terms of the signaling power of grades. Analyzing data from four nationally representative samples, we find that in the decades following 1972: (a) grades have risen at high schools and dropped at four-year colleges, in general, and selective four-year institutions, in particular; and (b) the signaling power of grades has attenuated little, if at all. PMID:25288826

  19. 10 CFR 75.4 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... to IAEA Safeguards) means the collection of environmental samples (e.g., air, water, vegetation, soil... uranium or enriching uranium in the isotope 235, zirconium tubes, heavy water or deuterium, nuclear-grade...); (3) A fuel fabrication plant; (4) An enrichment plant or isotope separation plant for the separation...

  20. Discovery.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC. National Air And Space Museum.

    This material presents the historical perspectives of flight and student activities for grades K-3 prepared by the National Air and Space Museum (NASM) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Sections included are: (1) "Historical Perspective of Flight"; (2) "Discovery Vocabulary" (listing the terms found in the first section);…

  1. The Green Pages: Environmental Education Activities K-12.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Clearing, 1991

    1991-01-01

    Presented are 38 environmental education activities for grades K-12. Topics include seed dispersal, food chains, plant identification, sizes and shapes, trees, common names, air pollution, recycling, temperature, litter, water conservation, photography, insects, urban areas, diversity, natural cycles, rain, erosion, phosphates, human population,…

  2. Treatment Seeking Beliefs and Behaviors in Air Force Nursing Personnel

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-05-09

    Research question and specific aims: To what extent are perceptions of stigma and barriers to accessing mental health (MH) services, perceived stress...personnel are influenced by: perceived stigma and barriers to care, resilience, perceived stress, demographic characteristics, military grade and previous deployment.

  3. Coal char oxidation kinetics in air medium

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Slyusarskiy, K. V.; Jankovskiy, S. A.; Korotkikh, A. G.; Sorokin, I. V.

    2017-01-01

    Research on oxidation in air medium process of three different coal chars with various carbon content was presented. The anthracite, T-grade bituminous coal and 2B-grade lignite char powders with particle size less than 80 µm were studied. The coal char oxidation was studied by isothermal method using coupled TG-DSC analyzer Netzsch STA 449 Jupiter F3 in the temperature range 1000-1200 °C. Experiments were carried out at ambient pressure. Volumetric flow rate of oxidation medium into analyzer chamber was 250 ml/min and consisted of oxygen and argon with volumetric ratio 24:1. Based on experimental data, the average rate of carbon oxidation reaction values were defined at each temperature. Kinetic constants (frequency factor and activation energy) of reaction were defined as well via 1st order Arrhenius equation. Activation energy values are in good agreement with the data presented in the literature. Activation energy values for anthracite char are 1.6-1.7 times higher than those for bituminous coal and lignite chars, respectively.

  4. Detection of right-to-left shunts: comparison between the International Consensus and Spencer Logarithmic Scale criteria.

    PubMed

    Lao, Annabelle Y; Sharma, Vijay K; Tsivgoulis, Georgios; Frey, James L; Malkoff, Marc D; Navarro, Jose C; Alexandrov, Andrei V

    2008-10-01

    International Consensus Criteria (ICC) consider right-to-left shunt (RLS) present when Transcranial Doppler (TCD) detects even one microbubble (microB). Spencer Logarithmic Scale (SLS) offers more grades of RLS with detection of >30 microB corresponding to a large shunt. We compared the yield of ICC and SLS in detection and quantification of a large RLS. We prospectively evaluated paradoxical embolism in consecutive patients with ischemic strokes or transient ischemic attack (TIA) using injections of 9 cc saline agitated with 1 cc of air. Results were classified according to ICC [negative (no microB), grade I (1-20 microB), grade II (>20 microB or "shower" appearance of microB), and grade III ("curtain" appearance of microB)] and SLS criteria [negative (no microB), grade I (1-10 microB), grade II (11-30 microB), grade III (31100 microB), grade IV (101300 microB), grade V (>300 microB)]. The RLS size was defined as large (>4 mm) using diameter measurement of the septal defects on transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). TCD comparison to TEE showed 24 true positive, 48 true negative, 4 false positive, and 2 false negative cases (sensitivity 92.3%, specificity 92.3%, positive predictive value (PPV) 85.7%, negative predictive value (NPV) 96%, and accuracy 92.3%) for any RLS presence. Both ICC and SLS were 100% sensitive for detection of large RLS. ICC and SLS criteria yielded a false positive rate of 24.4% and 7.7%, respectively when compared to TEE. Although both grading scales provide agreement as to any shunt presence, using the Spencer Scale grade III or higher can decrease by one-half the number of false positive TCD diagnoses to predict large RLS on TEE.

  5. Are middle schools harmful? The role of transition timing, classroom quality and school characteristics.

    PubMed

    Holas, Igor; Huston, Aletha C

    2012-03-01

    Are middle schools ill-suited for early adolescents, or can school characteristics account for any differences in student functioning? Achievement, school engagement, and perceived competence of children starting middle schools in 5th and 6th grades were compared to those of their same-grade peers in elementary schools in a national, longitudinal sample (NICHD Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development, n = 855; 52% Female, 82% White). Classroom quality (observed and teacher-reported) and school characteristics (composition and size) were considered as explanations for any relationships between school-level and student functioning. Fifth grade middle school students did not differ from those in elementary school, but students entering middle school in 6th grade, compared to those in elementary school, experienced lower classroom quality, which in turn predicted slightly lower achievement. They also had lower school engagement, explained by larger school size. Classroom quality and school characteristics predicted youth functioning regardless of school type. We suggest reshaping the research and policy debate with renewed focus on classroom quality and school size instead of grade organization.

  6. The effects of a graded activity intervention for low back pain in occupational health on sick leave, functional status and pain: 12-month results of a randomized controlled trial.

    PubMed

    Hlobil, Hynek; Staal, J Bart; Twisk, Jos; Köke, Albere; Ariëns, Geertje; Smid, Tjabe; van Mechelen, Willem

    2005-12-01

    Behaviorally oriented graded activity interventions have been suggested for sick-listed workers with low back pain on return to work, but have not been extensively evaluated. One hundred and thirty-four workers were randomly assigned to either a graded activity intervention (n = 67) or usual care (n = 67) and followed-up for 12 months. The graded activity group returned back to work faster with a median of 54 days compared to 67 days in the usual care group. The graded activity intervention was more effective after approximately 50 days post-randomization (HRR = 1.9, CI = 1.2-3.1, p = 0.01). Differences between the groups in number of recurrent episodes, total number of days of sick leave due to low back pain, and total number of days of sick leave due to all diagnoses, were in favor of the graded activity group, although not statistically significant. No effects of the graded activity intervention were found for functional status or pain. Graded activity intervention is a valuable strategy to enhance short-term return to work outcomes.

  7. Propagation of ultrasonic Love waves in nonhomogeneous elastic functionally graded materials.

    PubMed

    Kiełczyński, P; Szalewski, M; Balcerzak, A; Wieja, K

    2016-02-01

    This paper presents a theoretical study of the propagation behavior of ultrasonic Love waves in nonhomogeneous functionally graded elastic materials, which is a vital problem in the mechanics of solids. The elastic properties (shear modulus) of a semi-infinite elastic half-space vary monotonically with the depth (distance from the surface of the material). The Direct Sturm-Liouville Problem that describes the propagation of Love waves in nonhomogeneous elastic functionally graded materials is formulated and solved by using two methods: i.e., (1) Finite Difference Method, and (2) Haskell-Thompson Transfer Matrix Method. The dispersion curves of phase and group velocity of surface Love waves in inhomogeneous elastic graded materials are evaluated. The integral formula for the group velocity of Love waves in nonhomogeneous elastic graded materials has been established. The effect of elastic non-homogeneities on the dispersion curves of Love waves is discussed. Two Love wave waveguide structures are analyzed: (1) a nonhomogeneous elastic surface layer deposited on a homogeneous elastic substrate, and (2) a semi-infinite nonhomogeneous elastic half-space. Obtained in this work, the phase and group velocity dispersion curves of Love waves propagating in the considered nonhomogeneous elastic waveguides have not previously been reported in the scientific literature. The results of this paper may give a deeper insight into the nature of Love waves propagation in elastic nonhomogeneous functionally graded materials, and can provide theoretical guidance for the design and optimization of Love wave based devices. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  8. Relationship between cognitive functions and prevalence of fatigue in elementary and junior high school students.

    PubMed

    Mizuno, Kei; Tanaka, Masaaki; Fukuda, Sanae; Imai-Matsumura, Kyoko; Watanabe, Yasuyoshi

    2011-06-01

    Fatigue is a common complaint among elementary and junior high school students, and is related to poor academic performance. Since grade-dependent development of cognitive functions also influences academic performance, we attempted to determine whether cognitive functions were associated with the prevalence of fatigue. Participants were 148 elementary school students from 4th- to 6th-grades and 152 junior high school students from 7th- to 9th-grades. Participants completed a questionnaire about fatigue (Japanese version of the Chalder Fatigue Scale) and paper-and-pencil and computerized cognitive tests which could evaluate the abilities of motor processing, immediate, delayed and working memory, selective, divided and alternative attention, retrieve learned material, and spatial construction. We found that in multivariate logistic regression analyses adjusted for grade and gender, slow motor processing was positively correlated with the prevalence of fatigue in the elementary school students and decreases in working memory and divided and alternative attention processing were positively correlated with the prevalence of fatigue in the junior high school students. The grade-dependent development of cognitive function influences the severity of fatigue in elementary and junior high school students. Copyright © 2010 The Japanese Society of Child Neurology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  9. Loss of intercellular adhesion activates a transition from low- to high-grade human squamous cell carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Margulis, Alexander; Zhang, Weitian; Alt-Holland, Addy; Pawagi, Sujata; Prabhu, Padmaja; Cao, Jian; Zucker, Stanley; Pfeiffer, Laurence; Garfield, Jacqueline; Fusenig, Norbert E; Garlick, Jonathan A

    2006-02-15

    The relationship between loss of intercellular adhesion and the biologic properties of human squamous cell carcinoma is not well understood. We investigated how abrogation of E-cadherin-mediated adhesion influenced the behavior and phenotype of squamous cell carcinoma in 3D human tissues. Cell-cell adhesion was disrupted in early-stage epithelial tumor cells (HaCaT-II-4) through expression of a dominant-negative form of E-cadherin (H-2Kd-Ecad). Three-dimensional human tissue constructs harboring either H-2Kd-Ecad-expressing or control II-4 cells (pBabe, H-2Kd-EcadDeltaC25) were cultured at an air-liquid interface for 8 days and transplanted to nude mice; tumor phenotype was analyzed 2 days and 2 and 4 weeks later. H-2Kd-Ecad-expressing tumors demonstrated a switch to a high-grade aggressive tumor phenotype characterized by poorly differentiated tumor cells that infiltrated throughout the stroma. This high-grade carcinoma revealed elevated cell proliferation in a random pattern, loss of keratin 1 and diffuse deposition of laminin 5 gamma2 chain. When II-4 cell variants were seeded into type I collagen gels as an in vitro assay for cell migration, we found that only E-cadherin-deficient cells detached, migrated as single cells and expressed N-cadherin. Function-blocking studies demonstrated that this migration was matrix metalloproteinase-dependent, as GM-6001 and TIMP-2, but not TIMP-1, could block migration. Gene expression profiles revealed that E-cadherin-deficient II-4 cells demonstrated increased expression of proteases and cell-cell and cell-matrix proteins. These findings showed that loss of E-cadherin-mediated adhesion plays a causal role in the transition from low- to high-grade squamous cell carcinomas and that the absence of E-cadherin is an important prognostic marker in the progression of this disease.

  10. Using Content-Aligned Assessments to Identify Weaknesses in Students' Understanding of Fundamental Weather and Climate Ideas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wertheim, J.; Willard, S.

    2011-12-01

    There is growing interest in ensuring that citizens understand weather and climate sufficiently to make informed decisions, and these topics are gaining increased attention in K-12 education. The National Research Council recently released A Framework for K-12 Science Education with the expectation that U.S. 12th graders must have a sophisticated knowledge of climate change, including the role of deep time, variability, and computer modeling in the prediction of climate impacts on the planet and human activity. This requirement demands that students extend their understanding of climate change to the past and future, but it is important to recognize that many students know little about prerequisite ideas, such as daily and annual weather and climate processes, and this problem must be addressed prior to introducing the complexities of the climate system. In order to diagnose weaknesses in students' foundational understanding of the complex climate system, we primarily assessed a middle school (MS)-level understanding of the core elements of the system, in addition to a high school (HS)-level understanding of seasons. We described grade appropriate, coherent, functioning conceptual models for each targeted idea, and decomposed them into explicit learning goals. We then applied Project 2061's rigorous item development procedure to produce 235 high-quality, misconception-based multiple choice test items. These items were tested with a national sample of approximately 20,000 students, grades 6-12, in two phases (Spring 2010 & 2011). Here we report results from the second phase, including items targeting knowledge about convection, daily and annual air temperature patterns, factors that influence air temperature, and seasons. Overall, HS students outperformed MS students on these items by an average of only 3% (MS:31% correct; HS:34% correct). These data show a few strong misconceptions (e.g., 47% of students think that the North Pole is always angled toward the Sun). But a much more prevalent issue is that most students lack schematic knowledge for any concept tested, as demonstrated by results indicative of random guessing on items that require cognitive demands beyond declarative knowledge. For example, 83% of students know that the maximum height of the sun in the sky above a given place can change during July, but only 32% know both that it changes continuously through the month and could correctly identify if it gets higher or lower. These basic elements of an accurate mental model are needed to explain annual temperature patterns. If students do not have an accurate understanding of processes controlling key elements of the climate system, it is unsurprising that they struggle to comprehend how these elements interact within the system itself. The results of this study underscore the need to 1) ensure that fundamentals are given the necessary attention, even as our expectations for students become increasingly sophisticated; 2) define grade appropriate, coherent, functioning conceptual models for each climate idea and for each grade level; and 3) develop instructional materials that build schematic knowledge.

  11. Inference of Low and High-Grade Glioma Gene Regulatory Networks Delineates the Role of Rnd3 in Establishing Multiple Hallmarks of Cancer

    PubMed Central

    Turan, Nil; Soulet, Fabienne; Mohd Zahari, Maihafizah; Ryan, Katie R.; Durant, Sarah; He, Shan; Herbert, John; Ankers, John; Heath, John K.; Bjerkvig, Rolf; Bicknell, Roy; Hotchin, Neil A.; Bikfalvi, Andreas; Falciani, Francesco

    2015-01-01

    Gliomas are a highly heterogeneous group of brain tumours that are refractory to treatment, highly invasive and pro-angiogenic. Glioblastoma patients have an average survival time of less than 15 months. Understanding the molecular basis of different grades of glioma, from well differentiated, low-grade tumours to high-grade tumours, is a key step in defining new therapeutic targets. Here we use a data-driven approach to learn the structure of gene regulatory networks from observational data and use the resulting models to formulate hypothesis on the molecular determinants of glioma stage. Remarkably, integration of available knowledge with functional genomics datasets representing clinical and pre-clinical studies reveals important properties within the regulatory circuits controlling low and high-grade glioma. Our analyses first show that low and high-grade gliomas are characterised by a switch in activity of two subsets of Rho GTPases. The first one is involved in maintaining normal glial cell function, while the second is linked to the establishment of multiple hallmarks of cancer. Next, the development and application of a novel data integration methodology reveals novel functions of RND3 in controlling glioma cell migration, invasion, proliferation, angiogenesis and clinical outcome. PMID:26132659

  12. Effect of Grade I and II Intraventricular Hemorrhage on Visuocortical Function in Very Low Birth Weight Infants

    PubMed Central

    Madan, Ashima; Norcia, Anthony M.; Hou, Chuan; Pettet, Mark W.; Good, William V.

    2015-01-01

    The neurological outcome for infants with Grade I/II intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is debated. The aim of this study was to determine whether very low birth weight infants (VLBW, < 1500 g) with Grade I /II (IVH) have altered visuocortical activity compared with infants with no IVH. We assessed the quantitative swept parameter Visual Evoked Potential (sVEP) responses evoked by three different visual stimuli. Data from 52 VLBW infants were compared with data from 13 infants with Grade I or II IVH, enrolled at 5 – 7 months corrected age. Acuity thresholds and suprathreshold response amplitudes were compared. Grating Acuity (GA), Contrast Sensitivity (CS) and Vernier Acuity (VA) were each worse in the Grade I/ II IVH compared with the no IVH groups (8.24 cpd in IVH group vs 13.07 cpd in no IVH group for GA; 1.44% vs 1.18% for CS and 1.55 arcmin vs 0.58 arcmin for VA). The slopes of the response amplitude for CS and VA were significantly lower in IVH infants. The spatial frequency tuning function was shifted downward on the spatial frequency axis, without a change in slope. These results indicate that Grade I/II IVH are associated with deleterious effects on cortical vision development and function. PMID:22371027

  13. Neuropsychological outcome in patients with childhood craniopharyngioma and hypothalamic involvement.

    PubMed

    Özyurt, Jale; Thiel, Christiane M; Lorenzen, Anna; Gebhardt, Ursel; Calaminus, Gabriele; Warmuth-Metz, Monika; Müller, Hermann L

    2014-04-01

    To test memory performance and executive functions in patients with childhood craniopharyngioma and hypothalamic involvement. Using standardized neuropsychological tests, we compared cognitive performance in a group of 15 patients with childhood craniopharyngioma and known hypothalamic involvement and a group of 24 age- and intelligence-matched control subjects. In addition, we compared individual patients' results with normative data to detect abnormal performance in the clinically relevant range. Within the patient group, we further tested whether the grade of hypothalamic involvement had an impact on cognitive performance and quality of life. Relative to healthy controls, the patients demonstrated significantly lower performance scores in tests of memory and executive functioning. On the individual performance level, delayed recall performance was severely impaired in one-third of the patients. Compared with patients with low-grade hypothalamic involvement, those with high-grade hypothalamic involvement showed worse performance in executive functions and reduced functional capabilities for daily life actions, indicating lower quality of life. Our findings demonstrate that hypothalamic involvement is related to impairments in memory and executive functioning in patients with childhood craniopharyngioma and indicate that a high grade of hypothalamic involvement is related to worse outcomes. Copyright © 2014 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  14. Endoscopic assessment of airway function as a predictor of racing performance in Thoroughbred yearlings: 427 cases (1997-2000).

    PubMed

    Stick, J A; Peloso, J G; Morehead, J P; Lloyd, J; Eberhart, S; Padungtod, P; Derksen, F J

    2001-10-01

    To compare endoscopic findings of the upper portion of the respiratory tract in Thoroughbred yearlings with their subsequent race records to determine whether subjective assessment of airway function may be used as a predictor of future racing performance. Retrospective study. 427 Thoroughbred yearlings. Endoscopic examination findings were obtained from the medical records and the videoendoscopic repository of the Keeneland 1996 September yearling sales. Racing records were requested for the yearlings through the end of their 4-year-old racing season (1997-2000). Twenty-nine measures of racing performance were correlated with endoscopic findings. Subjective arytenoid cartilage movement grades were determined, using a 4-point grading scale (grade 1 = symmetrical synchronous abduction of the arytenoid cartilages; grade 4 = no substantial movement of the left arytenoid cartilage). Of the 427 Thoroughbred yearlings included in this study, 364 established race records, and 63 did not. Opinions regarding suitability for purchase, meeting conditions of the sale, and the presence of epiglottic abnormalities had no significant association with racing performance. Arytenoid cartilage movement grades were significantly associated with many of the dependent variables. However, palatine abnormalities were not predictive of inferior racing performance. Thoroughbred yearlings with grade-1 and -2 arytenoid cartilage movements had significantly better racing performance as adults, compared with yearlings with grade-3 arytenoid cartilage movements. In contrast, epiglottic and palatine abnormalities were not predictive of inferior racing performance. Therefore, evaluation of laryngeal function, but not epiglottic or palatine abnormalities, using the 4-point grading system, should be the major factor in developing recommendations for prospective buyers.

  15. Construction, testing and performance report : state study no. 137 : resin modified pavement demonstration project.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2007-09-01

    Resin Modified Pavement (RMP) is a composite paving material consisting of a thin layer (2 inches) : of open graded hot mix asphalt (HMA) whose internal air voids (approximately 30% voids) are : filled with a latex rubber-modified portland cement gro...

  16. 40 CFR 91.320 - Carbon dioxide analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... monthly thereafter, or within one month prior to the certification test, calibrate the NDIR carbon dioxide... the analyzer to optimize performance. (2) Zero the carbon dioxide analyzer with either purified synthetic air or zero-grade nitrogen. (3) Calibrate on each normally used operating range with carbon...

  17. 40 CFR 90.320 - Carbon dioxide analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... use and monthly thereafter, or within one month prior to the certification test, calibrate the NDIR... operation. Adjust the analyzer to optimize performance. (2) Zero the carbon dioxide analyzer with either purified synthetic air or zero-grade nitrogen. (3) Calibrate on each normally used operating range with...

  18. 46 CFR 32.65-15 - Cofferdams-TB/ALL.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ..., 1951 § 32.65-15 Cofferdams—TB/ALL. Tank vessels equipped to carry Grade A, B, C, or D liquids shall have their galleys, living quarters, general cargo spaces, boiler rooms, and enclosed spaces containing... their cargo tanks by cofferdams or equivalent pumprooms, tanks, or air spaces. ...

  19. 46 CFR 32.65-15 - Cofferdams-TB/ALL.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ..., 1951 § 32.65-15 Cofferdams—TB/ALL. Tank vessels equipped to carry Grade A, B, C, or D liquids shall have their galleys, living quarters, general cargo spaces, boiler rooms, and enclosed spaces containing... their cargo tanks by cofferdams or equivalent pumprooms, tanks, or air spaces. ...

  20. 46 CFR 32.65-15 - Cofferdams-TB/ALL.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ..., 1951 § 32.65-15 Cofferdams—TB/ALL. Tank vessels equipped to carry Grade A, B, C, or D liquids shall have their galleys, living quarters, general cargo spaces, boiler rooms, and enclosed spaces containing... their cargo tanks by cofferdams or equivalent pumprooms, tanks, or air spaces. ...

  1. 46 CFR 32.65-15 - Cofferdams-TB/ALL.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ..., 1951 § 32.65-15 Cofferdams—TB/ALL. Tank vessels equipped to carry Grade A, B, C, or D liquids shall have their galleys, living quarters, general cargo spaces, boiler rooms, and enclosed spaces containing... their cargo tanks by cofferdams or equivalent pumprooms, tanks, or air spaces. ...

  2. 46 CFR 32.65-15 - Cofferdams-TB/ALL.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ..., 1951 § 32.65-15 Cofferdams—TB/ALL. Tank vessels equipped to carry Grade A, B, C, or D liquids shall have their galleys, living quarters, general cargo spaces, boiler rooms, and enclosed spaces containing... their cargo tanks by cofferdams or equivalent pumprooms, tanks, or air spaces. ...

  3. Mothers' Depressive Symptoms and Children's Cognitive and Social Agency: Predicting First-Grade Cognitive Functioning

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Yan, Ni; Dix, Theodore

    2016-01-01

    Using data from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (N = 1,364), the present study supports an agentic perspective; it demonstrates that mothers' depressive symptoms in infancy predict children's poor first-grade cognitive functioning because depressive symptoms…

  4. An Authentic Task That Models Quadratics

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Baron, Lorraine M.

    2015-01-01

    As students develop algebraic reasoning in grades 5 to 9, they learn to recognize patterns and understand expressions, equations, and variables. Linear functions are a focus in eighth-grade mathematics, and by algebra 1, students must make sense of functions that are not linear. This article describes how students worked through a classroom task…

  5. Exploring the Functions of Reading: A Cross-Cultural Perspective.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Greaney, Vincent; Neuman, Susan B.

    To determine if purposes in reading differ with sex, grade level, and nationality, a 16-item "Functions of Reading Scale" (developed from content analysis of student essays on why they like to read) was administered to 459 Irish (Dublin, Ireland) and American (Windham, Connecticut) students in grades three, five, and eight. Data…

  6. Kindergarten Children's Executive Functions Predict Their Second-Grade Academic Achievement and Behavior

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Morgan, Paul L.; Farkas, George; Hillemeier, Marianne M.; Pun, Wik Hung; Maczuga, Steve

    2018-01-01

    Whether and to what extent kindergarten children's executive functions (EF) constitute promising targets of early intervention is currently unclear. This study examined whether kindergarten children's EF predicted their second-grade academic achievement and behavior. This was done using (a) a longitudinal and nationally representative sample (N =…

  7. The Effects of Stimulus Writing Modality To Produce Writing Fluency in the Primary Grades.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Duross, Christine; And Others

    An action research project set out to increase students' writing fluency and investigate whether writing fluency varies as a function of writing prompts and directions given to students. Subjects were 62 students in a first-grade class, a second-grade class, and a fifth/sixth-grade Special Day class (all in this class are learning disabled) in a…

  8. Looking Forward to High School and College: Middle Grade Indicators of Readiness in Chicago Public Schools

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Allensworth, Elaine M.; Gwynne, Julia A.; Moore, Paul; de la Torre, Marisa

    2014-01-01

    There is a very large population of students who struggle with the transition from the middle grades to high school, raising concerns that high school failures are partially a function of poor middle grade preparation. As a result, middle grade practitioners are grappling with questions about what skills students need to succeed in high school,…

  9. Axial postbuckling analysis of multilayer functionally graded composite nanoplates reinforced with GPLs based on nonlocal strain gradient theory

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sahmani, S.; Aghdam, M. M.

    2017-11-01

    In this paper, a new size-dependent inhomogeneous plate model is constructed to analyze the nonlinear buckling and postbuckling characteristics of multilayer functionally graded composite nanoplates reinforced with graphene platelet (GPL) nanofillers under axial compressive load. To this purpose, the nonlocal strain gradient theory of elasticity is implemented into a refined hyperbolic shear deformation plate theory. The mechanical properties of multilayer graphene platelet-reinforced composite (GPLRC) nanoplates are evaluated based upon the Halpin-Tsai micromechanical scheme. The weight fraction of randomly dispersed GPLs remain constant in each individual layer, which results in U-GPLRC nanoplate, or changes layerwise in accordance with three different functionally graded patterns, which make X-GPLRC, O-GPLRC and A-GPLRC nanoplates. Via a two-stepped perturbation technique, explicit analytical expressions for nonlocal strain gradient stability paths are established for layerwise functionally graded GPLRC nanoplates. It is demonstrated that both the nonlocal and strain gradient size dependencies are more significant for multilayer GPLRC nanoplates filling by GPL nanofillers with higher length-to-thickness and width-to-thickness ratios.

  10. Investigation of free vibration analysis of functionally graded annular piezoelectric plate using COMSOL

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharma, Trivendra Kumar; Parashar, Sandeep Kumar

    2018-05-01

    In the present age functionally graded piezoelectric materials (FGPM) are increasingly being used as actuators and sensors. In spite of the fact that the piezoelectric coupling coefficient for shear d15 has much higher value in comparison to d31 or d33, it is far less utilized for the applications due to complex nature of the shear induced vibrations. In this work three dimensional free vibration analysis of functionally graded piezoelectric material annular plates with free-free boundary conditions is presented. The annular FGPM plate is polarized along the radial direction while the electric field is applied along the thickness direction inducing flexural vibrations of the plate due to d15 effect of functionally graded piezoelectric materials. The material properties are assumed to have a power law variation along the thickness. COMSOL Multiphysics is used to obtain the natural frequencies and modeshapes. Detailed numerical study is performed to ascertain the effect of variation in power law index and various geometrical parameters. The results presented shall be helpful in optimizing the existing applications and developing the new ones utilizing the FGPM annular plates.

  11. HOTCFGM-1D: A Coupled Higher-Order Theory for Cylindrical Structural Components with Through-Thickness Functionally Graded Microstructures

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Pindera, Marek-Jerzy; Aboudi, Jacob

    1998-01-01

    The objective of this three-year project was to develop and deliver to NASA Lewis one-dimensional and two-dimensional higher-order theories, and related computer codes, for the analysis, optimization and design of cylindrical functionally graded materials/structural components for use in advanced aircraft engines (e.g., combustor linings, rotor disks, heat shields, blisk blades). To satisfy this objective, a quasi one-dimensional version of the higher-order theory, HOTCFGM-1D, and four computer codes based on this theory, for the analysis, design and optimization of cylindrical structural components functionally graded in the radial direction were developed. The theory is applicable to thin multi-phased composite shell/cylinders subjected to macroscopically axisymmetric thermomechanical and inertial loading applied uniformly along the axial direction such that the overall deformation is characterized by a constant average axial strain. The reinforcement phases are uniformly distributed in the axial and circumferential directions, and arbitrarily distributed in the radial direction, thereby allowing functional grading of the internal reinforcement in this direction.

  12. Saxon Math. What Works Clearinghouse Intervention Report

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    What Works Clearinghouse, 2004

    2004-01-01

    "Saxon Math" focuses on fundamental mathematics skills, targeting children from kindergarten through grade 12. This report focuses on middle school math, defined as grades 6 through 9. The 6th grade curriculum covers simplifying expressions containing parentheses, graphing functions, and understanding ratios and proportions. The 7th grade…

  13. Surface Roughness: Its Effects on the Performance of a Two-Dimensional Compressor Cascade.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1986-12-01

    Outside air was dLawn into a sealed containment room where the option existed to mix it with recirculated warmer room air in order to stabilize the...by " applying different grades of carborundum grit to the surface and sealing them in place with an acrylic adhesive. This procedure had a number of...U. at the Ong" start of the loop . If it was different, the process was re- -38- peated with the new value until such time the new and old U Is were

  14. Environmental Assessment Construction of Antenna Parts Storage Facility and Demolition of Hazardous Materials Storage Shed and Oil Change Pit, Jordan Lake Air Force Space Surveillance Station, Alabama

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-01-03

    Paleozoic rocks of the Wedowee Group. The Wedowee Group includes the Cragford phyllite, Cutnose gneiss, and other high-grade metamorphic and igneous rocks ...rary and not significant. No long-term impacts will occur. Air Quality: There will be temporary increased emissions from the use of equipment and...worker vehicles during the construction and demolition activities. Each type of equ ipment will be used briefly and will generate a very small amount

  15. Classification Studies in an Advanced Air Classifier

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Routray, Sunita; Bhima Rao, R.

    2016-10-01

    In the present paper, experiments are carried out using VSK separator which is an advanced air classifier to recover heavy minerals from beach sand. In classification experiments the cage wheel speed and the feed rate are set and the material is fed to the air cyclone and split into fine and coarse particles which are collected in separate bags. The size distribution of each fraction was measured by sieve analysis. A model is developed to predict the performance of the air classifier. The objective of the present model is to predict the grade efficiency curve for a given set of operating parameters such as cage wheel speed and feed rate. The overall experimental data with all variables studied in this investigation is fitted to several models. It is found that the present model is fitting good to the logistic model.

  16. Functional graded fullerene derivatives for improving the fill factor and device stability of inverted-type perovskite solar cells.

    PubMed

    Chiu, Kuo Yuan; Chang, Sheng Hsiung; Huang, Wei-Chen; Cheng, Hsin-Ming; Shaw, Hsin; Yeh, Shih-Chieh; Chen, Chin-Ti; Su, Yuhlong Oliver; Chen, Sheng-Hui; Wu, Chun-Guey

    2018-07-27

    A graded fullerene derivative thin film was used as a dual-functional electron transport layer (ETL) in CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 (MAPbI 3 ) solar cells, to improve the fill factor (FF) and device stability. The graded ETL was made by mixing phenyl-C 61 -butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) molecules and C 60 -diphenylmethanofullerene-oligoether (C 60 -DPM-OE) molecules using the spin-coating method. The formation of the graded ETLs can be due to the phase separation between hydrophobic PCBM and hydrophilic C 60 -DPM-OE, which was confirmed by XPS depth-profile analysis and an electron energy-loss spectroscope. Comprehensive studies were carried out to explore the characteristics of the graded ETLs in MAPbI 3 solar cells, including the surface properties, electronic energy levels, molecular packing properties and energy transfer dynamics. The elimination of the s-shape in the current density-voltage curves results in an increase in the FF, which originates from the smooth contact between the C 60 -DPM-OE and hydrophilic MAPbI 3 and the formation of the more ordered ETL. There was an improvement in device stability mainly due to the decrease in the photothermal induced morphology change of the graded ETLs fabricated from two fullerene derivatives with distinct hydrophilicity. Consequently, such a graded ETL provides dual-functional capabilities for the realization of stable high-performance MAPbI 3 solar cells.

  17. Functional graded fullerene derivatives for improving the fill factor and device stability of inverted-type perovskite solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chiu, Kuo Yuan; Hsiung Chang, Sheng; Huang, Wei-Chen; Cheng, Hsin-Ming; Shaw, Hsin; Yeh, Shih-Chieh; Chen, Chin-Ti; Su, Yuhlong Oliver; Chen, Sheng-Hui; Wu, Chun-Guey

    2018-07-01

    A graded fullerene derivative thin film was used as a dual-functional electron transport layer (ETL) in CH3NH3PbI3 (MAPbI3) solar cells, to improve the fill factor (FF) and device stability. The graded ETL was made by mixing phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM) molecules and C60-diphenylmethanofullerene-oligoether (C60-DPM-OE) molecules using the spin-coating method. The formation of the graded ETLs can be due to the phase separation between hydrophobic PCBM and hydrophilic C60-DPM-OE, which was confirmed by XPS depth-profile analysis and an electron energy-loss spectroscope. Comprehensive studies were carried out to explore the characteristics of the graded ETLs in MAPbI3 solar cells, including the surface properties, electronic energy levels, molecular packing properties and energy transfer dynamics. The elimination of the s-shape in the current density–voltage curves results in an increase in the FF, which originates from the smooth contact between the C60-DPM-OE and hydrophilic MAPbI3 and the formation of the more ordered ETL. There was an improvement in device stability mainly due to the decrease in the photothermal induced morphology change of the graded ETLs fabricated from two fullerene derivatives with distinct hydrophilicity. Consequently, such a graded ETL provides dual-functional capabilities for the realization of stable high-performance MAPbI3 solar cells.

  18. [Apoplectic macroadenomas: the outcome of the residual pituitary gland].

    PubMed

    Marouf, R; Mohr, G; Assimakopoulos, P; Glikstein, R

    2010-08-01

    The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess the MRI aspects and the function of the residual pituitary gland (RPG) after surgical decompression of an apoplectic pituitary macroadenoma, and to attempt to answer the question of whether an intra-adenomatous apoplexy necessarily leads to hypophyseal apoplexy. Between 1992 and 2008, 150 pituitary macroadenomas were surgically treated via the trans-sphenoidal approach, 19 of which presented an apoplectic feature (13%). They were subdivided into three groups: pure hemorrhage, hemorrhagic infarction, and ischemic infarction. The imaging was studied after surgery to identify the RPG and establish a correlation with the endocrine status. After surgery five of 19 patients had normal adenohypophyseal function (27%), eight (42%) had panhypopituitarism, and six (31%) complete or partial corticotropic hypopituitarism. The RPG was identified on MRI in 13 patients (69%), four of them (31%) with normal adenohypophyseal function. The RPG was clearly identified intraoperatively in nine patients (47%), four of whom (44%) had normal adenohypophyseal function. One patient presented preoperative diabetes insipidus, which disappeared immediately after surgery, and two other patients developed postoperative diabetes insipidus: in one patient it quickly declined and in the other one it persisted, requiring replacement. According to the radiological classification of Hardy and Vezina modified by the Mohr (Mohr et Hardy, 1982) grade, the patients were subdivided up as follows: one grade II-0, four grade II-A, 11 grade II-B, two grade C, and one grade IV-B+D. The repercussions of adenomatous apoplexy on the RPG is significant: only 27% of the patients retained normal pituitary function. Furthermore, although the RPG was identified on the MRI in more than two-thirds of the cases, more than half had adenohypophyseal failure: therefore, the visualization of a RPG does not mean that its functions are preserved. The involvement of the neurohypophysis is much rarer: one patient of 19 (5%). The implications of the ischemic or compressive damage on the normal pituitary gland are discussed. Copyright (c) 2009 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

  19. Research and development of intelligent controller for high-grade sanitary ware

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bao, Kongjun; Shen, Qingping

    2013-03-01

    With the social and economic development and people's living standards improve, more and more emphasis on modern society, people improve the quality of family life, the use of intelligent controller applications in high-grade sanitary ware physiotherapy students. Analysis of high-grade sanitary ware physiotherapy common functions pointed out in the production and use of the possible risks, proposed implementation of the system hardware and matching, given the system software implementation process. High-grade sanitary ware physiotherapy intelligent controller not only to achieve elegant and beautiful, simple, physical therapy, water power, deodorant, multi-function, intelligent control, to meet the consumers, the high-end sanitary ware market, strong demand, Accelerate the enterprise product Upgrade and improve the competitiveness of enterprises.

  20. The use of air bags for mitigating grade crossing and trespass accidents : literature review and research plan.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    2016-06-01

    This literature review will confirm prior work in the use of locomotive airbag technologies for vehicle or pedestrian collision : mitigation, and to focus planned activities and tasks for this research. The state of the art in relevant technologies h...

  1. An Analysis of Global Problem Issues in Sixth- and Seventh-Grade Textbooks.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hamm, Mary; Adams, Dennis

    1989-01-01

    Examined are the global issues of population growth, world hunger, air quality and atmosphere, and water resources in 10 middle school science textbooks. Less than two percent of text pages were devoted to these issues and no significant differences were found between textbook series. (Author/YP)

  2. 40 CFR 91.316 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... operating adjustment using the appropriate fuel (see § 91.312) and purified synthetic air or zero-grade nitrogen. (2) One of the following procedures is required for FID or HFID optimization: (i) The procedure...) Initial and periodic calibration. Prior to introduction into service and monthly thereafter, or within one...

  3. Weather Fundamentals: Wind. [Videotape].

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    1998

    The videos in this educational series, for grades 4-7, help students understand the science behind weather phenomena through dramatic live-action footage, vivid animated graphics, detailed weather maps, and hands-on experiments. This episode (23 minutes) describes the roles of the sun, temperature, and air pressure in creating the incredible power…

  4. The Perceived Effectiveness of Mentoring by Company Grade Officers in the United States Air Force

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-03-01

    indicated receiving mentoring having reported higher levels of career motivation, self efficacy, and career success compared to non-mentored respondents... career success . Journal of Vocational Behavior, 64, 72-91. Defense Manpower Data Center (2003). 2002 status of the armed forces survey- workplace and

  5. Project Earth, A Curriculum Guide, Kindergarten-Primary-Intermediate.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rogers, Arnold R., Ed.

    This conservation curriculum guide contains units on the air, water, soil, plants, and animals. The guide is organized by grade levels--kindergarten, primary, intermediate. Objectives and concepts are listed and suggested activities are complete with a statement of procedure and necessary materials. A resource appendix includes books, films, and…

  6. Effects of cold temperature and ethanol content on VOC emissions from light-duty gasoline vehicles

    EPA Science Inventory

    Emissions of speciated volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including mobile source air toxics (MSATs), were measured in vehicle exhaust from three light-duty spark ignition vehicles operating on summer and winter grade gasoline (E0) and ethanol blended (E10 and E85) fuels. Vehicle...

  7. 40 CFR 86.308-79 - Gas specifications.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... New Gasoline-Fueled and Diesel-Fueled Heavy-Duty Engines; Gaseous Exhaust Test Procedures § 86.308-79... Diesel engine tests the diluent shall be zero-grade air. (3) Calibration or span gases for the NOX...) Alternate pure hydrogen fuel. Some HFID's are designed to operate on pure hydrogen. Generally the HFID fuel...

  8. 40 CFR 86.308-79 - Gas specifications.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... New Gasoline-Fueled and Diesel-Fueled Heavy-Duty Engines; Gaseous Exhaust Test Procedures § 86.308-79... Diesel engine tests the diluent shall be zero-grade air. (3) Calibration or span gases for the NOX...) Alternate pure hydrogen fuel. Some HFID's are designed to operate on pure hydrogen. Generally the HFID fuel...

  9. 113. Photocopy of drawing (1964 civil engineering drawing by Koebig ...

    Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

    113. Photocopy of drawing (1964 civil engineering drawing by Koebig & Koebig Inc.) ADDITION TO LAUNCH OPERATIONS BUILDING, POINT ARGUELLO LAUNCH COMPLEX ONE, GRADING AND UTILITY PLAN, SHEET C3 - Vandenberg Air Force Base, Space Launch Complex 3, Launch Operations Building, Napa & Alden Roads, Lompoc, Santa Barbara County, CA

  10. Outcome of different facial nerve reconstruction techniques.

    PubMed

    Mohamed, Aboshanif; Omi, Eigo; Honda, Kohei; Suzuki, Shinsuke; Ishikawa, Kazuo

    There is no technique of facial nerve reconstruction that guarantees facial function recovery up to grade III. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of different facial nerve reconstruction techniques. Facial nerve reconstruction was performed in 22 patients (facial nerve interpositional graft in 11 patients and hypoglossal-facial nerve transfer in another 11 patients). All patients had facial function House-Brackmann (HB) grade VI, either caused by trauma or after resection of a tumor. All patients were submitted to a primary nerve reconstruction except 7 patients, where late reconstruction was performed two weeks to four months after the initial surgery. The follow-up period was at least two years. For facial nerve interpositional graft technique, we achieved facial function HB grade III in eight patients and grade IV in three patients. Synkinesis was found in eight patients, and facial contracture with synkinesis was found in two patients. In regards to hypoglossal-facial nerve transfer using different modifications, we achieved facial function HB grade III in nine patients and grade IV in two patients. Facial contracture, synkinesis and tongue atrophy were found in three patients, and synkinesis was found in five patients. However, those who had primary direct facial-hypoglossal end-to-side anastomosis showed the best result without any neurological deficit. Among various reanimation techniques, when indicated, direct end-to-side facial-hypoglossal anastomosis through epineural suturing is the most effective technique with excellent outcomes for facial reanimation and preservation of tongue movement, particularly when performed as a primary technique. Copyright © 2016 Associação Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia e Cirurgia Cérvico-Facial. Published by Elsevier Editora Ltda. All rights reserved.

  11. Smartphone-based grading of apple quality

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Xianglin; Li, Ting

    2018-02-01

    Apple quality grading is a critical issue in apple industry which is one economical pillar of many countries. Artificial grading is inefficient and of poor accuracy. Here we proposed to develop a portable, convenient, real-time, and low cost method aimed at grading apple. Color images of the apples were collected with a smartphone and the grade of sampled apple was assessed by a customized smartphone app, which offered the functions translating RGB color values of the apple to color grade and translating the edge of apple image to weight grade. The algorithms are based on modeling with a large number of apple image at different grades. The apple grade data evaluated by the smartphone are in accordance with the actual data. This study demonstrated the potential of smart phone in apple quality grading/online monitoring at gathering and transportation stage for apple industry.

  12. Manufacturing of PZT-nickel functionally graded piezoelectric ceramics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rubio, Wilfredo M.; Silva, Emílio C. N.; Buiochi, Flávio

    2012-05-01

    A recent approach for designing and manufacturing piezoelectric ceramics consists of using the functionally graded materials (FGM) concept. In this work, nickel (Ni) is used to generate a new PZT-Ni graded ceramic and its dynamic behavior is experimentally explored. The PZT-Ni graded ceramic is manufactured by using the technique of Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS). The ceramic is graded from the top to the bottom surface (along 6 mm of thickness). Specifically, five layers of green powders are sintered: 100 wt% PZT-5A, 90 wt% PZT-5A and 10 wt% Ni, 80 wt% PZT-5A and 20 wt% Ni, 70 wt% PZT-5A and 30 wt% Ni, 60 wt% PZT-5A and 40 wt% Ni. Thus, Ni is used as a second phase, which is added to a PZT-5A matrix, changing its concentration. No manufacturing defects or cracks or exfoliated layers are observed. However, graphite diffusion is observed from the graphite die into the graded ceramic, which does not affect its performance; hence, the ceramic contains enough piezoelectric properties, which allows its polarization and dynamic characterization by determining the impedance curve of the PZT-Ni graded ceramic. The PZT-Ni graded ceramic vibrates at 1.04 MHz, 1.55 MHz and 2.07 MHz.

  13. Perceived indoor air quality and its relationship to air pollutants in French dwellings.

    PubMed

    Langer, S; Ramalho, O; Le Ponner, E; Derbez, M; Kirchner, S; Mandin, C

    2017-11-01

    Perception of indoor air quality (PIAQ) was evaluated in a nationwide survey of 567 French dwellings, and this survey was combined with measurements of gaseous and particulate matter (PM 10 and PM 2.5 ) indoor air pollutants and indoor climate parameters. The perception was assessed on a nine-grade scale by both the occupants of the dwellings and the inspectors who performed the measurements. The occupants perceived the air quality in their homes as more pleasant than the inspectors. The inspectors perceived the air quality as more unpleasant in dwellings in which the residents smoked indoors. Significant associations between PIAQ and indoor air pollutant concentrations were observed for both the inspectors and, to a lesser extent, the occupants. Introducing confounding parameters, such as building and personal characteristics, into a multivariate model suppressed most of the observed bivariate correlations and identified the tenure status of the occupants and their occupation as the parameters that most influenced their PIAQ. For the inspectors, perceived air quality was affected by the presence of smokers, the season, the type of ventilation, retrofitting, and the concentrations of acetaldehyde and acrolein. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  14. Executive Functioning Predicts Academic Achievement in Middle School: A Four-Year Longitudinal Study

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Samuels, William Ellery; Tournaki, Nelly; Blackman, Sheldon; Zilinski, Christopher

    2016-01-01

    Executive functioning (EF) is a strong predictor of children's and adolescents' academic performance. Although research indicates that EF can increase during childhood and adolescence, few studies have tracked the effect of EF on academic performance throughout the middle school grades. EF was measured at the end of Grades 6-9 through 21 teachers'…

  15. Analyzing the Efficiency of Argumentation Based Practices on 9th Grade Functions Subject

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mercan, Emel; Isleyen, Tevfik

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of teaching 9th grade Functions subject through argumentation on students' science process skills, attitudes towards Maths, willingness for argumentation and conceptual comprehension. The study was designed as a quasi-experimental model with pretest-posttest control group. It was carried out…

  16. Teaching Mathematics with Technology. How to Win People and Influence Friends: Calculators in the Primary Grades.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Taylor, Lyn, Ed.; Thompson, Virginia, Comp.

    1992-01-01

    Postulated here is the notion that the exploration of number patterns with calculators is a valuable mathematical learning activity that should be commenced in the primary grades. Various activities are presented that make use of the constant function key, which is available on many of the inexpensive four-function calculators. (JJK)

  17. Algebraic Reasoning: Professor Arbegla Introduces Variables and Functions. GEMS Teacher's Guide for Grades 3-5.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kopp, Jaine; Bergman, Lincoln

    This teacher guide helps build a solid foundation in algebra for students in grades 3-5 in which students gain essential understanding of properties of numbers, variables, functions, equations, and formulas. Throughout the problem solving activities, students use computational skills and gain a deeper understanding of the number system. Students…

  18. Eighth Grade In-Service Teachers' Knowledge of Proportional Reasoning and Functions: A Secondary Data Analysis

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Masters, Jessica

    2012-01-01

    A secondary data analysis was conducted using a large dataset from a study related to online professional development for eighth grade teachers of mathematics. Using this data, the paper provides a snapshot of the current state of teachers' knowledge related to proportional reasoning and functions. The paper also considers how teachers' knowledge…

  19. Error Patterns with Fraction Calculations at Fourth Grade as a Function of Students' Mathematics Achievement Status

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schumacher, Robin F.; Malone, Amelia S.

    2017-01-01

    The goal of this study was to describe fraction-calculation errors among fourth-grade students and to determine whether error patterns differed as a function of problem type (addition vs. subtraction; like vs. unlike denominators), orientation (horizontal vs. vertical), or mathematics-achievement status (low-, average-, or high-achieving). We…

  20. Methods of electrophoretic deposition for functionally graded porous nanostructures and systems thereof

    DOEpatents

    Worsley, Marcus A; Baumann, Theodore F; Satcher, Joe H; Olson, Tammy Y; Kuntz, Joshua D; Rose, Klint A

    2015-03-03

    In one embodiment, an aerogel includes a layer of shaped particles having a particle packing density gradient in a thickness direction of the layer, wherein the shaped particles are characterized by being formed in an electrophoretic deposition (EPD) process using an impurity. In another embodiment, a method for forming a functionally graded porous nanostructure includes adding particles of an impurity and a solution to an EPD chamber, applying a voltage difference across the two electrodes of the EPD chamber to create an electric field in the EPD chamber, and depositing the material onto surfaces of the particles of the impurity to form shaped particles of the material. Other functionally graded materials and methods are described according to more embodiments.

  1. Longitudinal Fracture Analysis of a Two-Dimensional Functionally Graded Beam

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rizov, V.

    2017-11-01

    Longitudinal fracture in a two-dimensional functionally graded beam is analyzed. The modulus of elasticity varies continuously in the beam cross-section. The beam is clamped in its right-hand end. The external loading consists of one longitudinal force applied at the free end of the lower crack arm. The longitudinal crack is located in the beam mid-plane. The fracture is studied in terms of the strain energy release rate. The solution derived is used to elucidate the effects of material gradients along the height as well as along the width of the beam cross-section on the fracture behaviour. The results obtained indicate that the fracture in two-dimensional functionally graded beams can be regulated efficiently by employing appropriate material gradients.

  2. Compositional control of continuously graded anode functional layer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McCoppin, J.; Barney, I.; Mukhopadhyay, S.; Miller, R.; Reitz, T.; Young, D.

    2012-10-01

    In this work, solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC's) are fabricated with linear-compositionally graded anode functional layers (CGAFL) using a computer-controlled compound aerosol deposition (CCAD) system. Cells with different CGAFL thicknesses (30 um and 50 um) are prepared with a continuous compositionally graded interface deposited between the electrolyte and anode support current collecting regions. The compositional profile was characterized using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopic mapping. An analytical model of the compound aerosol deposition was developed. The model predicted compositional profiles for both samples that closely matched the measured profiles, suggesting that aerosol-based deposition methods are capable of creating functional gradation on length scales suitable for solid oxide fuel cell structures. The electrochemical performances of the two cells are analyzed using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).

  3. Laser surface texturing of 316L stainless steel in air and water: A method for increasing hydrophilicity via direct creation of microstructures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Razi, Sepehr; Madanipour, Khosro; Mollabashi, Mahmoud

    2016-06-01

    Laser processing of materials in water contact is sometimes employed for improving the machining, cutting or welding quality. Here, we demonstrate surface patterning of stainless steel grade 316L by nano-second laser processing in air and water. Suitable adjustments of laser parameters offer a variety of surface patterns on the treated targets. Furthermore alterations of different surface features such as surface chemistry and wettability are investigated in various processing circumstances. More than surface morphology, remarkable differences are observed in the surface oxygen content and wettability of the samples treated in air and water at the same laser processing conditions. Mechanisms of the changes are discussed extensively.

  4. The effectiveness of graded activity for low back pain in occupational healthcare.

    PubMed

    Steenstra, I A; Anema, J R; Bongers, P M; de Vet, H C W; Knol, D L; van Mechelen, W

    2006-11-01

    Low back pain is a common medical and social problem associated with disability and absence from work. Knowledge on effective return to work (RTW) interventions is scarce. To determine the effectiveness of graded activity as part of a multistage RTW programme. Randomised controlled trial. Occupational healthcare. 112 workers absent from work for more than eight weeks due to low back pain were randomised to either graded activity (n = 55) or usual care (n = 57). Graded activity, a physical exercise programme aimed at RTW based on operant-conditioning behavioural principles. The number of days off work until first RTW for more then 28 days, total number of days on sick leave during follow up, functional status, and severity of pain. Follow up was 26 weeks. Graded activity prolonged RTW. Median time until RTW was equal to the total number of days on sick leave and was 139 (IQR = 69) days in the graded activity group and 111 (IQR = 76) days in the usual care group (hazard ratio = 0.52, 95% CI 0.32 to 0.86). An interaction between a prior workplace intervention and graded activity, together with a delay in the start of the graded activity intervention, explained most of the delay in RTW (hazard ratio = 0.86, 95% CI 0.40 to 1.84 without prior intervention and 0.39, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.81 with prior intervention). Graded activity did not improve pain or functional status clinically significantly. Graded activity was not effective for any of the outcome measures. Different interventions combined can lead to a delay in RTW. Delay in referral to graded activity delays RTW. In implementing graded activity special attention should be paid to the structure and process of care.

  5. 49 CFR 234.265 - Timing relays and timing devices.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION GRADE CROSSING SIGNAL SYSTEM SAFETY AND STATE ACTION PLANS... devices which perform internal functions associated with motion detectors, motion sensors, and grade...

  6. Tailoring vibration mode shapes using topology optimization and functionally graded material concepts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Montealegre Rubio, Wilfredo; Paulino, Glaucio H.; Nelli Silva, Emilio Carlos

    2011-02-01

    Tailoring specified vibration modes is a requirement for designing piezoelectric devices aimed at dynamic-type applications. A technique for designing the shape of specified vibration modes is the topology optimization method (TOM) which finds an optimum material distribution inside a design domain to obtain a structure that vibrates according to specified eigenfrequencies and eigenmodes. Nevertheless, when the TOM is applied to dynamic problems, the well-known grayscale or intermediate material problem arises which can invalidate the post-processing of the optimal result. Thus, a more natural way for solving dynamic problems using TOM is to allow intermediate material values. This idea leads to the functionally graded material (FGM) concept. In fact, FGMs are materials whose properties and microstructure continuously change along a specific direction. Therefore, in this paper, an approach is presented for tailoring user-defined vibration modes, by applying the TOM and FGM concepts to design functionally graded piezoelectric transducers (FGPT) and non-piezoelectric structures (functionally graded structures—FGS) in order to achieve maximum and/or minimum vibration amplitudes at certain points of the structure, by simultaneously finding the topology and material gradation function. The optimization problem is solved by using sequential linear programming. Two-dimensional results are presented to illustrate the method.

  7. Deep versus periventricular white matter lesions and cognitive function in a community sample of middle-aged participants.

    PubMed

    Soriano-Raya, Juan José; Miralbell, Júlia; López-Cancio, Elena; Bargalló, Núria; Arenillas, Juan Francisco; Barrios, Maite; Cáceres, Cynthia; Toran, Pere; Alzamora, Maite; Dávalos, Antoni; Mataró, Maria

    2012-09-01

    The association of cerebral white matter lesions (WMLs) with cognitive status is not well understood in middle-aged individuals. Our aim was to determine the specific contribution of periventricular hyperintensities (PVHs) and deep white matter hyperintensities (DWMHs) to cognitive function in a community sample of asymptomatic participants aged 50 to 65 years. One hundred stroke- and dementia-free adults completed a comprehensive neuropsychological battery and brain MRI protocol. Participants were classified according to PVH and DWMH scores (Fazekas scale). We dichotomized our sample into low grade WMLs (participants without or with mild lesions) and high grade WMLs (participants with moderate or severe lesions). Analyses were performed separately in PVH and DWMH groups. High grade DWMHs were associated with significantly lower scores in executive functioning (-0.45 standard deviations [SD]), attention (-0.42 SD), verbal fluency (-0.68 SD), visual memory (-0.52 SD), visuospatial skills (-0.79 SD), and psychomotor speed (-0.46 SD). Further analyses revealed that high grade DWMHs were also associated with a three- to fourfold increased risk of impaired scores (i.e.,<1.5 SD) in executive functioning, verbal fluency, visuospatial skills, and psychomotor speed. Our findings suggest that only DWMHs, not PVHs, are related to diminished cognitive function in middle-aged individuals. (JINS, 2012, 18, 1-12).

  8. Lightweight armor system and process for producing the same

    DOEpatents

    Chu, Henry S.; Bruck, H. Alan; Strempek, Gary C.; Varacalle, Jr., Dominic J.

    2004-01-20

    A lightweight armor system may comprise a substrate having a graded metal matrix composite layer formed thereon by thermal spray deposition. The graded metal matrix composite layer comprises an increasing volume fraction of ceramic particles imbedded in a decreasing volume fraction of a metal matrix as a function of a thickness of the graded metal matrix composite layer. A ceramic impact layer is affixed to the graded metal matrix composite layer.

  9. Vibration analysis and transient response of a functionally graded piezoelectric curved beam with general boundary conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Su, Zhu; Jin, Guoyong; Ye, Tiangui

    2016-06-01

    The paper presents a unified solution for free and transient vibration analyses of a functionally graded piezoelectric curved beam with general boundary conditions within the framework of Timoshenko beam theory. The formulation is derived by means of the variational principle in conjunction with a modified Fourier series which consists of standard Fourier cosine series and supplemented functions. The mechanical and electrical properties of functionally graded piezoelectric materials (FGPMs) are assumed to vary continuously in the thickness direction and are estimated by Voigt’s rule of mixture. The convergence, accuracy and reliability of the present formulation are demonstrated by comparing the present solutions with those from the literature and finite element analysis. Numerous results for FGPM beams with different boundary conditions, geometrical parameters as well as material distributions are given. Moreover, forced vibration of the FGPM beams subjected to dynamic loads and general boundary conditions are also investigated.

  10. Analysis of Photothermal Characterization of Layered Materials: Design of Optimal Experiments

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cole, Kevin D.

    2003-01-01

    In this paper numerical calculations are presented for the steady-periodic temperature in layered materials and functionally-graded materials to simulate photothermal methods for the measurement of thermal properties. No laboratory experiments were performed. The temperature is found from a new Green s function formulation which is particularly well-suited to machine calculation. The simulation method is verified by comparison with literature data for a layered material. The method is applied to a class of two-component functionally-graded materials and results for temperature and sensitivity coefficients are presented. An optimality criterion, based on the sensitivity coefficients, is used for choosing what experimental conditions will be needed for photothermal measurements to determine the spatial distribution of thermal properties. This method for optimal experiment design is completely general and may be applied to any photothermal technique and to any functionally-graded material.

  11. Severe tetracycline dental discoloration: Restoration with conventional feldspathic ceramic veneers. A clinical report.

    PubMed

    Faus-Matoses, Vicente; Faus-Matoses, Ignacio; Ruiz-Bell, Esther; Faus-Llácer, Vicente J

    2017-11-01

    The treatment of severe tetracycline discoloration is a challenge for the dentist. There are several treatment options and one of the most effective is the use of feldspathic veneers. The aim of this clinical case was to carry out the replacement with conventional feldspathic ceramic veneers on a patient with highly stained teeth (grade IV tetracycline) by a minimally invasive approach. Clinical examination revealed gingival retraction, color change of the veneers, ceramic cracked of 1.1 and 1.3 and incisal wear in lower anterior teeth. The decision was to retreat with feldspathic ceramic veneers from 1.6 to 2.6. Premolars and first molars were included because its dark color intensifies the width buccal corridors. Also, the restoration with veneers from 3.3 to 4.3 was considered. Firstly, the veneers were removed and the color was selected by the Vitapan 3D Master guide (Vita Zahnfabrick, Bad Säckingen, Germany). Mock-up was made to evaluate aesthetic, phonetic and functional parameters. Then, teeth were prepared through the mock-up in order to reduce the minimal amount of dental tissue possible. Opaque dentine mass of microhybrid composite (Esthet-X A2O, Dentsply Sirona, Konstanz, Germany) was placed to mask the most intense stains. The definitive impressions were taken with silicone (Aquasil Ultra XLV, Dentsply Sirona, Konstanz, Germany) were taken to fabricate conventional feldsphatic ceramic veneers (Noritake kisai Co, Ltd. Japan) by the parallel stratification masking technique. For cementing, an opaque cement was selected from the try-in tests (Calibra, Dentsply Sirona, Konstanz, Germany) and the composite was silicatized with an air-abrasion device. A favorable and minimally invasive result was achieved to treat grade IV tetracycline stains, surpassing the patient's aesthetic expectations and functional needs. Key words: Porcelain veneer, tetracycline teeth, minimally invasive, masking, opaque composite.

  12. Fast plasma sintering delivers functional graded materials components with macroporous structures and osseointegration properties.

    PubMed

    Godoy, R F; Coathup, M J; Blunn, G W; Alves, A L; Robotti, P; Goodship, A E

    2016-04-13

    We explored the osseointegration potential of two macroporous titanium surfaces obtained using fast plasma sintering (FPS): Ti macroporous structures with 400-600 µmØ pores (TiMac400) and 850-1000 µmØ pores (TiMac850). They were compared against two surfaces currently in clinical use: Ti-Growth® and air plasma spray (Ti-Y367). Each surface was tested, once placed over a Ti-alloy and once onto a CoCr bulk substrate. Implants were placed in medial femoral condyles in 24 sheep. Samples were explanted at four and eight weeks after surgery. Push-out loads were measured using a material-testing system. Bone contact and ingrowth were assessed by histomorphometry and SEM and EDX analyses. Histology showed early osseointegration for all the surfaces tested. At 8 weeks, TiMac400, TiMac850 and Ti-Growth® showed deep bone ingrowth and extended colonisation with newly formed bone. The mechanical push-out force was equal in all tested surfaces. Plasma spray surfaces showed greater bone-implant contact and higher level of pores colonisation with new bone than FPS produced surfaces. However, the void pore area in FPS specimens was significantly higher, yet the FPS porous surfaces allowed a deeper osseointegration of bone to implant. FPS manufactured specimens showed similar osseointegration potential to the plasma spray surfaces for orthopaedic implants. FPS is a useful technology for manufacturing macroporous titanium surfaces. Furthermore, its capability to combine two implantable materials, using bulk CoCr with macroporous titanium surfaces, could be of interest as it enables designers to conceive and manufacture innovative components. FPS delivers functional graded materials components with macroporous structures optimised for osseointegration.

  13. Winning the Battle of Ideas in the War on Terrorism

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-03-30

    I were grading I would say we probably deserve a ’D’ or a ’D-plus’ as a country as to how well we’re doing in the battle of ideas that’s taking...assessment as the number one entry: "If I were grading I would say we probably deserve a ’D’ or a ’D-plus’ as a country as to how well we’re doing in...and weeks after 9/11 to live our lives, travel by air, get back to work, and get back to shopping (while being watchful). Rightfully so, our

  14. Fracture and fatigue analysis of functionally graded and homogeneous materials using singular integral equation approach

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhao, Huaqing

    There are two major objectives of this thesis work. One is to study theoretically the fracture and fatigue behavior of both homogeneous and functionally graded materials, with or without crack bridging. The other is to further develop the singular integral equation approach in solving mixed boundary value problems. The newly developed functionally graded materials (FGMs) have attracted considerable research interests as candidate materials for structural applications ranging from aerospace to automobile to manufacturing. From the mechanics viewpoint, the unique feature of FGMs is that their resistance to deformation, fracture and damage varies spatially. In order to guide the microstructure selection and the design and performance assessment of components made of functionally graded materials, in this thesis work, a series of theoretical studies has been carried out on the mode I stress intensity factors and crack opening displacements for FGMs with different combinations of geometry and material under various loading conditions, including: (1) a functionally graded layer under uniform strain, far field pure bending and far field axial loading, (2) a functionally graded coating on an infinite substrate under uniform strain, and (3) a functionally graded coating on a finite substrate under uniform strain, far field pure bending and far field axial loading. In solving crack problems in homogeneous and non-homogeneous materials, a very powerful singular integral equation (SEE) method has been developed since 1960s by Erdogan and associates to solve mixed boundary value problems. However, some of the kernel functions developed earlier are incomplete and possibly erroneous. In this thesis work, mode I fracture problems in a homogeneous strip are reformulated and accurate singular Cauchy type kernels are derived. Very good convergence rates and consistency with standard data are achieved. Other kernel functions are subsequently developed for mode I fracture in functionally graded materials. This work provides a solid foundation for further applications of the singular integral equation approach to fracture and fatigue problems in advanced composites. The concept of crack bridging is a unifying theory for fracture at various length scales, from atomic cleavage to rupture of concrete structures. However, most of the previous studies are limited to small scale bridging analyses although large scale bridging conditions prevail in engineering materials. In this work, a large scale bridging analysis is included within the framework of singular integral equation approach. This allows us to study fracture, fatigue and toughening mechanisms in advanced materials with crack bridging. As an example, the fatigue crack growth of grain bridging ceramics is studied. With the advent of composite materials technology, more complex material microstructures are being introduced, and more mechanics issues such as inhomogeneity and nonlinearity come into play. Improved mathematical and numerical tools need to be developed to allow theoretical modeling of these materials. This thesis work is an attempt to meet these challenges by making contributions to both micromechanics modeling and applied mathematics. It sets the stage for further investigations of a wide range of problems in the deformation and fracture of advanced engineering materials.

  15. Error Patterns with Fraction Calculations at Fourth Grade as a Function of Students' Mathematics Achievement Status

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Schumacher, Robin F.; Malone, Amelia S.

    2017-01-01

    The goal of the present study was to describe fraction-calculation errors among 4th-grade students and determine whether error patterns differed as a function of problem type (addition vs. subtraction; like vs. unlike denominators), orientation (horizontal vs. vertical), or mathematics-achievement status (low- vs. average- vs. high-achieving). We…

  16. Cooperative Health Occupation Education (Course Outline), Body Structure and Function II: 8009.09.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dade County Public Schools, Miami, FL.

    GRADES OR AGES: Grade Twelve. SUBJECT MATTER: This is the second part of a two-part course on body structure and function. The subject matter includes organization, composition, and all the systems of the human body. Laboratory experiments related to first aid are also covered. ORGANIZATION AND PHYSICAL APPEARANCE: The guide contains a preface, a…

  17. How Executive Functions Predict Development in Syntactic Complexity of Narrative Writing in the Upper Elementary Grades

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Drijbooms, Elise; Groen, Margriet A.; Verhoeven, Ludo

    2017-01-01

    The aim of this study was to examine the contribution of transcription skills, oral language skills, and executive functions to growth in narrative writing between fourth and sixth grade. While text length and story content of narratives did not increase with age, syntactic complexity of narratives showed a clear developmental progression. Results…

  18. An Exploration of Several Structural Measurement Techniques for Usage with Functionally Graded Materials

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-12-01

    Welsch, and E.W. Collings, eds. Materials Properties Handbook: Titanium Alloys . ASM International: 1994. p. 179 Davis, Joseph, ed. Properties ...AN EXPLORATION OF SEVERAL STRUCTURAL MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES FOR USAGE WITH FUNCTIONALLY GRADED...of Defense, or the United States Government. AFIT/GAE/ENY/07-D03 AN EXPLORATION OF SEVERAL STRUCTURAL MEASUREMENT TECHNIQUES FOR USAGE WITH

  19. A Function-Based Intervention to Increase a Second-Grade Student's On-Task Behavior in a General Education Classroom

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Germer, Kathryn A.; Kaplan, Lauren M.; Giroux, Lindsay N.; Markham, Elizabeth H.; Ferris, Geoffrey J.; Oakes, Wendy P.; Lane, Kathleen Lynne

    2011-01-01

    A functional assessment-based intervention (FABI) was designed and implemented to increase the on-task behavior of David, a second-grade student in a general education classroom. David attended an elementary school that used a comprehensive, integrated, three-tiered (CI3T) model of prevention. The school's principal nominated David for Project…

  20. Finite element analysis of functionally graded bone plate at femur bone fracture site

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Satapathy, Pravat Kumar; Sahoo, Bamadev; Panda, L. N.; Das, S.

    2018-03-01

    This paper focuses on the analysis of fractured Femur bone with functionally graded bone plate. The Femur bone is modeled by using the data from the CT (Computerized Tomography) scan and the material properties are assigned using Mimics software. The fracture fixation plate used here is composed of Functionally Graded Material (FGM). The functionally graded bone plate is considered to be composed of different layers of homogeneous materials. Finite element method approach is adopted for analysis. The volume fraction of the material is calculated by considering its variation along the thickness direction (z) according to a power law and the effective properties of the homogeneous layers are estimated. The model developed is validated by comparing numerical results available in the literature. Static analysis has been performed for the bone plate system by considering both axial compressive load and torsional load. The investigation shows that by introducing FG bone plate instead of titanium, the stress at the fracture site increases by 63 percentage and the deformation decreases by 15 percentage, especially when torsional load is taken into consideration. The present model yields better results in comparison with the commercially available bone plates.

  1. Synthesis of soybean oil-based thiol oligomers.

    PubMed

    Wu, Jennifer F; Fernando, Shashi; Weerasinghe, Dimuthu; Chen, Zhigang; Webster, Dean C

    2011-08-22

    Industrial grade soybean oil (SBO) and thiols were reacted to generate thiol-functionalized oligomers via a thermal, free radical initiated thiol-ene reaction between the SBO double bond moieties and the thiol functional groups. The effect of the reaction conditions, including thiol concentration, catalyst loading level, reaction time, and atmosphere, on the molecular weight and the conversion to the resultant soy-thiols were examined in a combinatorial high-throughput fashion using parallel synthesis, combinatorial FTIR, and rapid gel permeation chromatography (GPC). High thiol functionality and concentration, high thermal free radical catalyst concentration, long reaction time, and the use of a nitrogen reaction atmosphere were found to favor fast consumption of the SBO, and produced high molecular weight products. The thiol conversion during the reaction was inversely affected by a high thiol concentration, but was favored by a long reaction time and an air reaction atmosphere. These experimental observations were explained by the initial low affinity of the SBO and thiol, and the improved affinity between the generated soy-thiol oligomers and unreacted SBO during the reaction. The synthesized soy-thiol oligomers can be used for renewable thiol-ene UV curable materials and high molecular solids and thiourethane thermal cure materials. Copyright © 2011 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  2. The role of the indoor environment: Residential determinants of allergy, asthma and pulmonary function in children from a US-Mexico border community.

    PubMed

    Svendsen, Erik R; Gonzales, Melissa; Commodore, Adwoa

    2018-03-01

    The El Paso Children's Health Study examined environmental risk factors for allergy and asthma among fourth and fifth grade schoolchildren living in a major United States-Mexico border city. Complete questionnaire information was available for 5210 children, while adequate pulmonary function data were available for a subset of 1874. Herein we studied indoor environmental health risk factors for allergy and asthma. Several indoor environmental risk factors were associated with allergy and asthma. In particular, we found that ant and spider pest problems, pet dogs, fireplace heat, central air conditioning, humidifier use, and cooking with gas stoves were positively associated with both allergy and asthma prevalence. With regards to asthma severity, our analysis indicated that exposure to pet dogs increased monotonically with increasing asthma severity while the lack of any heat source and gas stove use for cooking decreased monotonically with increasing asthma severity. Lung function also decreased among children who lived in homes with reported cockroach pest problem in the past year without concurrent use of pesticides. These effects on pulmonary function were present even after excluding children with a current physician's diagnosis of asthma. Clinicians and public health professionals may need to look closely at the contribution of these indoor risk factors on pulmonary health and quality of life among susceptible populations. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  3. Study of boron detection limit using the in-air PIGE set-up at LAMFI-USP

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Moro, M. V.; Silva, T. F.; Trindade, G. F.; Added, N.; Tabacniks, M. H.

    2014-11-01

    The quantification of small amounts of boron in materials is of extreme importance in different areas of materials science. Boron is an important contaminant and also a silicon dopant in the semiconductor industry. Boron is also extensively used in nuclear power plants, either for neutron shielding or for safety control and boron is an essential nutrient for life, either vegetable or animal. The production of silicon solar cells, by refining metallurgical-grade silicon (MG-Si) requires the control and reduction of several silicon contaminants to very low concentration levels. Boron is one of the contaminants of solar-grade silicon (SG-Si) that must be controlled and quantified at sub-ppm levels. In the metallurgical purification, boron quantification is usually made by Inductive Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry, (ICP-MS) but the results need to be verified by an independent analytical method. In this work we present the results of the analysis of silicon samples by Particle Induced Gamma-Ray Emission (PIGE) aiming the quantification of low concentrations of boron. PIGE analysis was carried out using the in-air external beam line of the Laboratory for Materials Analysis with Ion Beans (LAMFI-USP) by the 10B ( p ,αγ(7Be nuclear reaction, and measuring the 429 keV γ-ray. The in-air PIGE measurements at LAMFI have a quantification limit of the order of 1016 at/cm2.

  4. CONSERVATIVE MANAGEMENT OF AN ISOLATED GRADE III LATERAL COLLATERAL LIGAMENT INJURY IN AN ADOLESCENT MULTI-SPORT ATHLETE: A CASE REPORT

    PubMed Central

    Haddad, M. Alex; Budich, Justin M.; Eckenrode, Brian J.

    2016-01-01

    ABSTRACT Study design Case report Background Isolated, grade III lateral collateral ligament knee injuries are an uncommon traumatic injury with little guidance available in the literature for conservative management and prognosis for return to sport. The purpose of this case report is to describe the clinical decision-making in both differential diagnosis and physical therapy management of an isolated grade III lateral collateral ligament sprain in an adolescent multi-sport high school athlete. Case Description A 16 year-old male, high school, multi-sport athlete (cross country, wrestling, track and field) sustained a traumatic knee injury during a wrestling match when his involved lower extremity was forcefully externally rotated by his opponent. Initial clinical presentation revealed pain and increased laxity with varus stress testing of the left knee, which was subsequently identified via MRI as a complete lateral collateral ligament rupture (grade III). A conservative physical therapy program was developed targeting the active and neuromuscular subsystems, theorized to compensate for the lack of an intact lateral collateral ligament. Outcomes The subject attended 18 visits of physical therapy over a period of 12 weeks. His rehabilitation program focused on functional strengthening of the posterolateral corner, enhancement of neuromuscular control, and graded progression to sports specific drills. Return to play decisions were based on a combination of lower extremity functional performance measures, condition specific outcome measures and subjective performance on sports specific tasks. At discharge from physical therapy, he reported 0/10 pain, scored a 76/80 on the Lower Extremity Functional Scale, and was able to return to competitive track and field events. Discussion Few descriptions in the literature exist for the conservative management of isolated, grade III lateral collateral ligament injuries. A program of selective functional strengthening, proprioceptive training, and graded sport specific activities may allow these individuals to return to sport with conservative management. Levels of Evidence 4 (Single Case Report) PMID:27525183

  5. A new grafting technique for tympanoplasty: tympanoplasty with a boomerang-shaped chondroperichondrial graft (TwBSCPG).

    PubMed

    Dündar, Rıza; Soy, Fatih Kemal; Kulduk, Erkan; Muluk, Nuray Bayar; Cingi, Cemal

    2014-10-01

    The aim of this study was to introduce a new grafting technique in tympanoplasty that involves use of a boomerang-shaped chondroperichondrial graft (BSCPG). The anatomical and functional results were evaluated. A new tympanoplasty with boomerang-shaped chondroperichondrial graft (TwBSCPG) technique was used in 99 chronic otitis media patients with central or marginal perforation of the tympanic membrane and a normal middle ear mucosa. All 99 patients received chondroperichondrial cartilage grafts with a boomerang-shaped cartilage island left at the anterior and inferior parts. Postoperative follow-ups were conducted at months 1, 6, and 12. Preoperative and postoperative audiological examinations were performed and air-bone gaps were calculated according to the pure-tone averages (PTAs) of the patients. In the preoperative period, most (83.8%) air-bone gaps were ≥ 16 dB; after operating using the TwBSCPG technique, the air-bone gaps decreased to 0-10 dB in most patients (77.8%). In the TwBSCPG patients, the mean preoperative air-bone gap was 22.02 ± 6.74 dB SPL. Postoperatively, the mean postoperative air-bone gap was 8.70 ± 5.74 dB SPL. The TwBSCPG technique therefore decreased the postoperative air-bone gap compared to that preoperatively (p = 0.000, z = -8.645). At the 1-month follow-up, there were six graft perforations and one graft retraction. At the 6-month follow-up, there were nine graft perforations and three graft retractions. At 12 months, there were seven graft perforations and four graft retractions. During the first year after the boomerang tympanoplasty surgery, graft lateralization was not detected in any patient. Retractions were grade 1 according to the Sade classification and were localized to the postero-superior quadrant of the tympanic membrane. The TwBSCPG technique has benefits with respect to postoperative anatomical and audiological results. It prevents perforation of the tympanic membrane at the anterior quadrant and avoids graft lateralization due to placement of the graft under the manubrium mallei. Given these benefits, the TwBSCPG technique seems to be a good alternative for grafting in tympanoplasties.

  6. Low-Velocity Impact Response of Sandwich Beams with Functionally Graded Core

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Apetre, N. A.; Sankar, B. V.; Ambur, D. R.

    2006-01-01

    The problem of low-speed impact of a one-dimensional sandwich panel by a rigid cylindrical projectile is considered. The core of the sandwich panel is functionally graded such that the density, and hence its stiffness, vary through the thickness. The problem is a combination of static contact problem and dynamic response of the sandwich panel obtained via a simple nonlinear spring-mass model (quasi-static approximation). The variation of core Young's modulus is represented by a polynomial in the thickness coordinate, but the Poisson's ratio is kept constant. The two-dimensional elasticity equations for the plane sandwich structure are solved using a combination of Fourier series and Galerkin method. The contact problem is solved using the assumed contact stress distribution method. For the impact problem we used a simple dynamic model based on quasi-static behavior of the panel - the sandwich beam was modeled as a combination of two springs, a linear spring to account for the global deflection and a nonlinear spring to represent the local indentation effects. Results indicate that the contact stiffness of thc beam with graded core Increases causing the contact stresses and other stress components in the vicinity of contact to increase. However, the values of maximum strains corresponding to the maximum impact load arc reduced considerably due to grading of thc core properties. For a better comparison, the thickness of the functionally graded cores was chosen such that the flexural stiffness was equal to that of a beam with homogeneous core. The results indicate that functionally graded cores can be used effectively to mitigate or completely prevent impact damage in sandwich composites.

  7. Does the grading of chondromalacia patellae influence anterior knee pain following total knee arthroplasty without patellar resurfacing?

    PubMed

    Zha, Guo-Chun; Feng, Shuo; Chen, Xiang-Yang; Guo, Kai-Jin

    2018-03-01

    The influence of chondromalacia patellae (CMP) on post-operative anterior knee pain (AKP) following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial, and few studies have focused on the relationship between them. The purpose of this study was to determine whether different CMP grades affect the incidence of AKP after TKA without patellar resurfacing. We performed a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data on 290 TKAs with the use of the low contact stress mobile-bearing prosthesis, without patellar resurfacing in 290 patients from February 2009 to January 2013. Patients were assessed by the Outerbridge classification for CMP, visual analog scale for AKP, the Knee Society clinical scoring system of knee score (KS), function score (FS), the patellar score (PS) for clinical function, and patients' satisfaction. The intra-operative grading of CMP: grade I in 30 patients, grade II in 68 patients, grade III in 97 patients, and grade IV in 95 patients. The incidence of AKP at 36-month follow-up was 10.3% (30/290). No statistical difference was detected among the different CMP grades in terms of the incidence of AKP (p = 0.995), patients' satisfaction (p = 0.832), KS (p = 0.228), FS (p = 0.713), and PS (p = 0.119) at 36-month follow-up. The findings may suggest no relevant influence of CMP grading on the incidence of AKP after TKA without patellar resurfacing.

  8. 75 FR 26222 - Cadeville Gas Storage, LLC; Notice of Availability of the Environmental Assessment for the...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-05-11

    ... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. CP10-16-000] Cadeville Gas... Storage Project April 30, 2010. The staff of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC or Commission... fueled engines with air intake filters/silencers, critical grade exhaust silencer/catalyst, a triethylene...

  9. Teacher's Guide: Educational Materials in Resource Recovery: Grades K-12. Second Edition.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Berg, Cathy A.

    This guide contains a bibliography of curricula (available from agencies, organizations, and through ERIC), audiovisual aids, children's books, and publications about resource recovery. Resource recovery is presented as a strategy to reduce air and water pollution, to conserve natural resources, and to save energy. These materials (suitable for…

  10. Academic Success of Suspended Students. AIR 2001 Annual Forum Paper.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Howard, Richard D.; Borland, Ken; Johnson, Cel; Baker, Larry J.

    Cohorts of entering freshmen were tracked over time to determine whether the suspension policy at Montana State University (MSU), Bozeman was having the intended effect on academic success, defined as degree completion. The university's current policy requires students to be suspended after receiving grade point averages (GPAs) of lower than 2.00…

  11. Principals' Role and Public Primary Schools' Effectiveness in Four Latin American Cities

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Anderson, Joan B.

    2008-01-01

    This article examines the effectiveness of observable and quantifiable traits in and approaches of school principals in enhancing student achievement. Data were gathered on 2,048 fourth-grade students in 96 public primary schools in Leon, Mexico; Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Santiago, Chile. The UNESCO/ORELAC (United…

  12. Final Environmental Assessment for Beddown of 24th Air Force

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-08-01

    mulch, straw , plastic netting, or a combination of these protective coverings • Implementation of site grading procedures to limit the time soils are...applied paint. This change was made under the Consumer Safety Act of 1977, P.L. 101-608, as implemented by 16 CFR Part 1303. DOD implemented a ban of

  13. How Science, Technology and Society Issues Are Presented in Science Textbooks.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hamm, Mary; Adams, Dennis

    1988-01-01

    Ten science textbooks (4,393 pages) for grades 6 and 7 were examined for their treatment of five top-ranked global problem issues (population growth, war technology, world hunger and food resources, air quality and atmosphere, and water resources). Implications for science education curricula from this content analysis are discussed. (SLD)

  14. Capacity and Opportunity: Predicting Engagement for Middle School Students with Behavioral Disorders

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Herron, Marsha Dempsey; Martin, Jim

    2015-01-01

    This study examined the capacity and opportunity scores of 36 middle school students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) on the student version of the "American Institutes for Research (AIR) Self-Determination Scale" across three school engagement factors: grade point averages (GPA), school absences, and frequency of school…

  15. 40 CFR 90.317 - Carbon monoxide analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... analyzer to optimize performance on the most sensitive range to be used. (2) Zero the carbon monoxide analyzer with either purified synthetic air or zero-grade nitrogen. (3) Bubble a mixture of three percent... more than one percent of full scale for ranges above 300 ppm full scale or more than three ppm on...

  16. 40 CFR 90.316 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ...) Recheck the zero response. If it has changed by more than ±one percent of full scale, repeat the test. (6... operating adjustment using the appropriate fuel (see § 90.312) and purified synthetic air or zero-grade nitrogen. (2) Use of one of the following procedures is required for FID or HFID optimization: (i) The...

  17. 40 CFR 92.119 - Hydrocarbon analyzer calibration.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... plot of the difference between the span and zero response versus fuel flow will be similar to the one... basic operating adjustment using the appropriate fuel (see § 92.112) and zero-grade air. (2) Optimize on.... Allow at least one-half hour after the oven has reached temperature for the system to equilibrate. (C...

  18. Map Adventures.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Geological Survey (Dept. of Interior), Reston, VA.

    This curriculum packet about maps, with seven accompanying lessons, is appropriate for students in grades K-3. Students learn basic concepts for visualizing objects from different perspectives and how to understand and use maps. Lessons in the packet center on a story about a little girl, Nikki, who rides in a hot-air balloon that gives her, and…

  19. Our Digital Conversion

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Edwards, Mark

    2012-01-01

    In this article, the author describes their digital conversion initiative at Mooresville Graded School District. The project has placed a MacBook Air laptop in the hands of every 3rd through 12th grader and their teachers in the district over the past four years, with over 5,000 computers distributed. But they believe their academic successes have…

  20. The University of Alabama's Integrated Science Program.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rainey, Larry; Mitrook, Kim

    This program, supported by the Center for Communication and Educational Technology at the University of Alabama, incorporates the perspectives of biology, earth/space science, chemistry, and physics into an innovative science curriculum for the middle grades. Students are engaged for 20 minutes 3 times a week by an on-air instructor who is doing…

  1. HP-GPC characterization of asphalt and modified asphalts from gulf countries and their relation to performance based properties

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

    Wahhab, H.I.A.; Ali, M.F.; Asi, I.M.

    Asphalt producing refineries in the Gulf countries include Ras Tanura and Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Al-Ahmadi (Kuwait), and BAPCO (Bahrain). Riyadh and Ras Tanura refineries are located in the central and eastern Saudi Arabia respectively. Arabian light crude oil is used to produce 2000 to 3000 tons of asphalt per day using vacuum distillation, air blowing and grade blending techniques to produce 60/70 penetration grade asphalts in each of these two Saudi refineries. All of the asphalt cement used in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and parts of the United Arab Emirates is supplied by Riyadh and Ras Tanura refineries. Al-Ahmadi refinery suppliesmore » all of the asphalt cement needed for construction in the state of Kuwait. Ratwi-Burgan crude off mix is used to produce 750 to 1000 tons of asphalt per day using vacuum distillation and air blowing processes. This study was initiated to evaluate different locally available polymers in order to identify potential polymers to modify asphalts to satisfy the performance requirements in the Gulf countries environmental conditions.« less

  2. Academic and emotional functioning in early adolescence: longitudinal relations, patterns, and prediction by experience in middle school.

    PubMed

    Roeser, R W; Eccles, J S; Sameroff, A J

    1998-01-01

    Adopting a motivational perspective on adolescent development, these two companion studies examined the longitudinal relations between early adolescents' school motivation (competence beliefs and values), achievement, emotional functioning (depressive symptoms and anger), and middle school perceptions using both variable- and person-centered analytic techniques. Data were collected from 1041 adolescents and their parents at the beginning of seventh and the end of eight grade in middle school. Controlling for demographic factors, regression analyses in Study 1 showed reciprocal relations between school motivation and positive emotional functioning over time. Furthermore, adolescents' perceptions of the middle school learning environment (support for competence and autonomy, quality of relationships with teachers) predicted their eighth grade motivation, achievement, and emotional functioning after accounting for demographic and prior adjustment measures. Cluster analyses in Study 2 revealed several different patterns of school functioning and emotional functioning during seventh grade that were stable over 2 years and that were predictably related to adolescents' reports of their middle school environment. Discussion focuses on the developmental significance of schooling for multiple adjustment outcomes during adolescence.

  3. No correlation between ultrasound placental grading at 31-34 weeks of gestation and a surrogate estimate of organ function at term obtained by stereological analysis.

    PubMed

    Yin, T T; Loughna, P; Ong, S S; Padfield, J; Mayhew, T M

    2009-08-01

    We test the experimental hypothesis that early changes in the ultrasound appearance of the placenta reflect poor or reduced placental function. The sonographic (Grannum) grade of placental maturity was compared to placental function as expressed by the morphometric oxygen diffusive conductance of the villous membrane. Ultrasonography was used to assess the Grannum grade of 32 placentas at 31-34 weeks of gestation. Indications for the scans included a history of previous fetal abnormalities, previous fetal growth problems or suspicion of IUGR. Placentas were classified from grade 0 (most immature) to grade III (most mature). We did not exclude smokers or complicated pregnancies as we aimed to correlate the early appearance of mature placentas with placental function. After delivery, microscopical fields on formalin-fixed, trichrome-stained histological sections of each placenta were obtained by multistage systematic uniform random sampling. Using design-based stereological methods, the exchange surface areas of peripheral (terminal and intermediate) villi and their fetal capillaries and the arithmetic and harmonic mean thicknesses of the villous membrane (maternal surface of villous trophoblast to adluminal surface of vascular endothelium) were estimated. An index of the variability in thickness of this membrane, and an estimate of its oxygen diffusive conductance, were derived secondarily as were estimates of the mean diameters and total lengths of villi and fetal capillaries. Group comparisons were drawn using analysis of variance. We found no significant differences in placental volume or composition or in the dimensions or diffusive conductances of the villous membrane. Subsequent exclusion of smokers did not alter these main findings. Grannum grades at 31-34 weeks of gestation appear not to provide reliable predictors of the functional capacity of the term placenta as expressed by the surrogate measure, morphometric diffusive conductance.

  4. Outcomes of Patellofemoral Arthroplasty Based on Radiographic Severity.

    PubMed

    deDeugd, Casey M; Pareek, Ayoosh; Krych, Aaron J; Cummings, Nancy M; Dahm, Diane L

    2017-04-01

    Patellofemoral arthroplasty (PFA) is increasingly performed for symptomatic patellofemoral arthritis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of PFA based on preoperative radiographic severity of patellofemoral arthritis. All patients who underwent PFA for isolated patellofemoral arthritis between 2002 and 2013 and had undergone preoperative magnetic resonance imaging were identified. Radiographic severity of patellofemoral arthritis was classified according to the Iwano classification system. Groups were divided between mild (grade 0-I) and moderate to severe (grade II-IV) patellofemoral arthritis. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the Knee Society scores (KSS), University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) and Tegner scores. Seventy-five knees in 55 patients met inclusion criteria. Mean age was 51 years (range, 36 to 81), and mean follow-up was 3 years (range, 2 to 10). All patients had grade IV patellofemoral chondromalacia and/or significant subchondral cyst formation and edema on magnetic resonance imaging. On plain radiographs, there were no patients with Iwano grade 0, 21 grade I, 15 grade II, 21 grade III, and 18 grade IV patellofemoral arthritis. There was significantly more improvement in KSS pain (P = .046), KSS function (P = .02), University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) (P = .046) and Tegner (P = .008) scores in the Iwano grade II-IV group vs the Iwano grade I group. Patient-reported pain quality improved significantly more following PFA in the grade II-IV group (P = .04). Patients with evidence of mild patellofemoral arthritis on plain radiographs demonstrated less improvement in pain and function after PFA than those with more advanced patellofemoral arthritis. Caution should be used when considering PFA for patients with minimal radiographic evidence of patellofemoral arthritis. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  5. Propagation of detonation wave in hydrogen-air mixture in channels with sound-absorbing surfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bivol, G. Yu.; Golovastov, S. V.; Golub, V. V.

    2015-12-01

    The possibility of using sound-absorbing surfaces for attenuating the intensity of detonation waves propagating in hydrogen-air mixtures has been experimentally studied in a cylindrical detonation tube open at one end, with an explosive initiated by spark discharge at the closed end. Sound-absorbing elements were made of an acoustic-grade foamed rubber with density of 0.035 g/cm3 containing open pores with an average diameter of 0.5 mm. The degree of attenuation of the detonation wave front velocity was determined as dependent on the volume fraction of hydrogen in the gas mixture.

  6. The influence of assist gas on magnetic properties of electrotechnical steel sheets cut with laser

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gaworska-Koniarek, Dominika; Szubzda, Bronisław; Wilczyński, Wiesław; Drosik, Jerzy; Karaś, Kazimierz

    2011-07-01

    The paper presents the influence of assist gas (air and nitrogen) during laser cutting on magnetization, magnetic permeability and loss characteristics of non-oriented electrical steels. The research was made on an non-oriented M330-50A grade electrical steels by means of single sheet tester. In order to enhance the effect of cutting and the same degradation zone on magnetic properties, strips with different width were achieved. Measurements results indicate that application of air as assist gas has more destructive effect on magnetic properties of electrical steels than nitrogen one.

  7. K-12 Aerospace Education Programs

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1999-01-01

    NASA, the United States Air Force Academy, the Air Force Space Command, the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS), and the United States Space Foundation teamed to produce a dynamic and successful graduate course and in-service program for K-12 educators that has a positive impact on education trends across the nation. Since 1986, more than 10,000 educators from across the United States have participated in Space Discovery and Teaching with Space affecting nearly a million students in grades K-12. The programs are designed to prepare educators to use the excitement of space to motivate students in all curriculum subjects.

  8. Investigation of air pollutants in rural nursery school - a case study

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mainka, Anna; Zajusz-Zubek, Elwira; Kozielska, Barbara; Brągoszewska, Ewa

    2018-01-01

    Children's exposure to air pollutants is an important public health challenge. Indoor air quality (IAQ) in nursery school is believed to be different from elementary school. Moreover, younger children are more vulnerable to air pollution than higher grade children because they spend more time indoors, and their immune systems and bodies are less mature. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the indoor air quality (IAQ) at naturally ventilated rural nursery schools located in Upper Silesia, Poland. We investigated the concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter (PM), bacterial and fungal bioaerosols, as well as carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in younger and older children's classrooms during the winter and spring seasons. The concentration of the investigated pollutants in indoor environments was higher than those in outdoor air. The results indicate the problem of elevated concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 inside the examined classrooms, as well as that of high levels of CO2 exceeding 1,000 ppm in relation to outdoor air. The characteristics of PM and CO2 levels were significantly different, both in terms of classroom occupation (younger or older children) and of season (winter or spring).

  9. Nanoscale Graphene Disk: A Natural Functionally Graded Material–How is Fourier’s Law Violated along Radius Direction of 2D Disk

    PubMed Central

    Yang, Nuo; Hu, Shiqian; Ma, Dengke; Lu, Tingyu; Li, Baowen

    2015-01-01

    In this Paper, we investigate numerically and analytically the thermal conductivity of nanoscale graphene disks (NGDs), and discussed the possibility to realize functionally graded material (FGM) with only one material, NGDs. Different from previous studies on divergence/non-diffusive of thermal conductivity in nano-structures with different size, we found a novel non-homogeneous (graded) thermal conductivity along the radius direction in a single nano-disk structure. We found that, instead of a constant value, the NGD has a graded thermal conductivity along the radius direction. That is, Fourier’s law of heat conduction is not valid in two dimensional graphene disk structures Moreover, we show the dependent of NGDs’ thermal conductivity on radius and temperature. Our study might inspire experimentalists to develop NGD based versatile FGMs, improve understanding of the heat removal of hot spots on chips, and enhance thermoelectric energy conversion efficiency by two dimensional disk with a graded thermal conductivity. PMID:26443206

  10. miR-215 functions as an oncogene in high-grade glioma by regulating retinoblastoma 1.

    PubMed

    Meng, Xiaofeng; Shi, Baozhong

    2017-09-01

    To investigate the roles of miR-215 in high-grade glioma and to clarify the regulation of retinoblastoma 1 (RB1) by miR-215. miR-215 is frequently up-regulated in high-grade glioma tissues. Increased miR-215 expression is significantly associated with World Health Organization grade (P < 0.01) tumor size (P < 0.05) and poor prognosis (P < 0.01). Over-expression of miR-215 promoted cell proliferation and knockdown of miR-215 inhibited cell proliferation in vitro. RB1 was identified as a direct and functional target of miR-215. RB1 is generally down-regulated in glioma tissues and its expression inversely correlated with miR-215, which is up-regulated in high-grade glioma tissues, and its expression was negatively correlated with miR-215. The new miR-215/RB1 axis provides new insights into the molecular mechanism and treatment for glioma.

  11. Nanoscale Graphene Disk: A Natural Functionally Graded Material-How is Fourier's Law Violated along Radius Direction of 2D Disk.

    PubMed

    Yang, Nuo; Hu, Shiqian; Ma, Dengke; Lu, Tingyu; Li, Baowen

    2015-10-07

    In this Paper, we investigate numerically and analytically the thermal conductivity of nanoscale graphene disks (NGDs), and discussed the possibility to realize functionally graded material (FGM) with only one material, NGDs. Different from previous studies on divergence/non-diffusive of thermal conductivity in nano-structures with different size, we found a novel non-homogeneous (graded) thermal conductivity along the radius direction in a single nano-disk structure. We found that, instead of a constant value, the NGD has a graded thermal conductivity along the radius direction. That is, Fourier's law of heat conduction is not valid in two dimensional graphene disk structures Moreover, we show the dependent of NGDs' thermal conductivity on radius and temperature. Our study might inspire experimentalists to develop NGD based versatile FGMs, improve understanding of the heat removal of hot spots on chips, and enhance thermoelectric energy conversion efficiency by two dimensional disk with a graded thermal conductivity.

  12. Junior High School Science: A Manual for Teachers. A Search for Structure. Grade 7.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Baltimore County Public Schools, Towson, MD.

    GRADES OR AGES: Grade 7. SUBJECT MATTER: Science. ORGANIZATION AND PHYSICAL APPEARANCE: The introduction describes the development of the junior high school science program. The main text is divided into three phases: Processes and Skills, Developing a Model of Matter, and Human Structure and Function. Phase I contains two subcategories: Rocks and…

  13. Does It Say That? Tensions in Teacher Questions When the Text Has the Final Say

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Boelé, Amy L.

    2017-01-01

    Using sociocultural concepts of authoritative and dialogic discourse, I sought to examine 5th-grade teachers' questioning practices during small-group reading instruction to understand the differences between groups reading text on grade level and groups reading texts below grade level. The purpose was also to examine how questions functioned for…

  14. Population Problems, Teacher's Guide. Environmental Education Unit, Twelfth Grade Sociology.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Little Rock School District, AR.

    Human population growth and the implications of increasing population on the well-being of men and nations is examined in this twelfth grade curriculum guide which is part of a series for grades 4 through 12. The primary functions of the unit are to introduce the student to reasons for population growth, results of overextended populations, and…

  15. Air swallowing, belching, acid and non-acid reflux in patients with functional dyspepsia.

    PubMed

    Conchillo, J M; Selimah, M; Bredenoord, A J; Samsom, M; Smout, A J P M

    2007-04-15

    Frequent belching is a common symptom in patients with functional dyspepsia with a reported incidence up to 80%. We hypothesized that patients with functional dyspepsia possibly have a higher frequency of belching than healthy subjects secondary to frequent air swallowing. To assess air swallowing, belching, acid and non-acid reflux patterns of patients with functional dyspepsia. Combined 24-h oesophageal impedance and pH monitoring was performed in 10 functional dyspepsia patients and 10 controls. Analysis of the impedance-pH signals included incidence of air swallows, belching, acid and non-acid reflux. The incidence of air swallows in functional dyspepsia patients were significantly higher compared with controls (153 +/- 15 vs. 79 +/- 10, P < 0.001), while the incidence of liquid-only swallows were not significantly increased. The proportions of gas-containing reflux episodes (belches) and non-acid reflux episodes in functional dyspepsia patients were significantly higher when compared with controls (66.4 vs. 44.4%, P = 0.04 and 70.1 vs. 45.9%, P = 0.009, respectively). Patients with functional dyspepsia swallow air more frequently than controls and this is associated with an increased incidence of non-acid gaseous gastro-oesophageal reflux.

  16. Normative Functional Performance Values in High School Athletes: The Functional Pre-Participation Evaluation Project.

    PubMed

    Onate, James A; Starkel, Cambrie; Clifton, Daniel R; Best, Thomas M; Borchers, James; Chaudhari, Ajit; Comstock, R Dawn; Cortes, Nelson; Grooms, Dustin R; Hertel, Jay; Hewett, Timothy E; Miller, Meghan Maume; Pan, Xueliang; Schussler, Eric; Van Lunen, Bonnie L

    2018-01-01

      The fourth edition of the Preparticipation Physical Evaluation recommends functional testing for the musculoskeletal portion of the examination; however, normative data across sex and grade level are limited. Establishing normative data can provide clinicians reference points with which to compare their patients, potentially aiding in the development of future injury-risk assessments and injury-mitigation programs.   To establish normative functional performance and limb-symmetry data for high school-aged male and female athletes in the United States.   Cross-sectional study.   Athletic training facilities and gymnasiums across the United States.   A total of 3951 male and female athletes who participated on high school-sponsored basketball, football, lacrosse, or soccer teams enrolled in this nationwide study.   Functional performance testing consisted of 3 evaluations. Ankle-joint range of motion, balance, and lower extremity muscular power and landing control were assessed via the weight-bearing ankle-dorsiflexion-lunge, single-legged anterior-reach, and anterior single-legged hop-for-distance (SLHOP) tests, respectively. We used 2-way analyses of variance and χ 2 analyses to examine the effects of sex and grade level on ankle-dorsiflexion-lunge, single-legged anterior-reach, and SLHOP test performance and symmetry.   The SLHOP performance differed between sexes (males = 187.8% ± 33.1% of limb length, females = 157.5% ± 27.8% of limb length; t = 30.3, P < .001). A Cohen d value of 0.97 indicated a large effect of sex on SLHOP performance. We observed differences for SLHOP and ankle-dorsiflexion-lunge performance among grade levels, but these differences were not clinically meaningful.   We demonstrated differences in normative data for lower extremity functional performance during preparticipation physical evaluations across sex and grade levels. The results of this study will allow clinicians to compare sex- and grade-specific functional performances and implement approaches for preventing musculoskeletal injuries in high school-aged athletes.

  17. Thermomechanical response of metal-ceramic graded composites for high-temperature aerospace applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Deierling, Phillip Eugene

    Airframes operating in the hypersonic regime are subjected to complex structural and thermal loads. Structural loads are a result of aggressive high G maneuvers, rapid vehicle acceleration and deceleration, and dynamic pressure, while thermal loads are a result of aerodynamic heating. For such airframes, structural members are typically constructed from steel, titanium and nickel alloys. However, with most materials, rapid elevations in temperature lead to undesirable changes in material properties. In particular, reductions in strength and stiffness are observed, along with an increase in thermal conductivity, specific heat and thermal expansion. Thus, hypersonic airframes are typically designed with external insulation, active cooling or a thermal protection system (TPS) added to the structure to protect the underling material from the effects of temperature. Such thermal protection may consist of adhesively bonded, pinned, and bolted thermal protection layers over exterior panels. These types of attachments create abrupt changes in thermal expansion and stiffness that make the structure susceptible to cracking and debonding as well as adding mass to the airframe. One of the promising materials concepts for extreme environments that was introduced in the past is the so-called Spatially Tailored Advanced Thermal Structures (STATS). The concept of STATS is rooted in functionally graded materials (FGMs), in which a directional variation of material properties exists. These materials are essentially composites and consist of two or more phases of distinct materials in which the volume fractions of each phase continuously change in space. Here, the graded material will serve a dual-purpose role as both the structural/skin member and thermal management with the goal of reducing the weight of the structure while maintaining structural soundness. This is achieved through the ability to tailor material properties to create a desired or enhanced thermomechanical response through spatial variation (e.g. grading). The objective of this study is to present a computational framework for modeling and evaluating the thermomechanical response of STATS and FGMs for highly maneuverable hypersonic (Mach > 5) airframes. To meet the objective of this study, four key steps have been defined to study the thermomechanical response of such materials in extreme environments. They involve: (1) modeling of graded microstructures; (2) validation of analytical and numerical modeling techniques for graded microstructures; (3) determination of effective properties of variable composition composites; (4) parametric studies to evaluate the performance of FGMs for use in the hypersonic operating environment; (5) optimization of the material spatial grading in hypersonic panels aiming to improve the thermomechanical performance. Modeling of graded microstructures, representing particulate reinforced FGMs, has been accomplished using power law distribution functions to specify the spatial variation of the constituents. Artificial microstructures consisting of disks and spheres have been generated using developed algorithms. These algorithms allow for the creation of dense packing fractions up to 0.61 and 0.91 for 2D and 3D geometry, respectively. Effective properties of FGMs are obtained using micromechanics models and finite element analysis of representative volume elements (RVEs). Two approaches have been adopted and compared to determine the proper RVE for materials with graded microstructures. In the first approach, RVEs are generated by considering regions that have a uniform to slow variation in material composition (i.e., constant volume fraction), resulting in statistically homogenous piecewise RVEs of the graded microstructure neglecting interactions from neighboring cells. In the second approach, continuous RVEs are generated by considering the entire FGM. Here it is presumed that modeling of the complete variation in a microstructure may influence the surrounding layers due to the interactions of varying material composition, particularly when there is a steep variation in material composition along the grading direction. To determine these effects of interlayer interactions, FGM microstructures were generated using three different types of material grading functions, linear, quadratic and square root, providing uniform, gradual and steep variations, respectively. Two- and three-dimensional finite element analysis was performed to determine the effective temperature-dependent material properties of the composite over a wide temperature range. The outcome of the computational analysis show that the similar effective properties are obtained by each of the modeling approaches. Furthermore, the obtained computational results for effective elastic, thermal, and thermal expansion properties are consistent with the known analytical bounds. Resulting effective temperature-dependent material properties were used to evaluate the time-dependent thermostructural response and effectiveness of FGM structural panels. Structural panels are subjected to time- and spatial-dependent thermal and mechanical loads resulting from hypersonic flight over a representative trajectory. Mechanical loads are the by-product of aggressive maneuvering at high air speeds and angles of attack. Thermal loads as a result of aerodynamic heating are applied to the material systems as laminar, turbulent and transitional heat flux on the outer surface. Laminar and turbulent uniform heat fluxes are used to evaluate the effectiveness of FGM panels graded in the through-thickness direction only. Transitional heat fluxes are used to evaluate the effectiveness of FGMs graded in two principal directions, e.g., through-thickness and the surface parallel to flow. The computational results indicate that when subjected to uniform surface heat flux, the graded material system can eliminate through-thickness temperature gradients that are otherwise present in traditional thermal protection systems. Furthermore, two-dimensional graded material systems can also eliminate through-thickness temperature gradients and significantly reduce in-plane surface temperature gradients when subjected to non-uniform surface aerodynamic heating.

  18. Tricuspid regurgitation and right ventricular function after mitral valve surgery with or without concomitant tricuspid valve procedure.

    PubMed

    Desai, Ravi R; Vargas Abello, Lina Maria; Klein, Allan L; Marwick, Thomas H; Krasuski, Richard A; Ye, Ying; Nowicki, Edward R; Rajeswaran, Jeevanantham; Blackstone, Eugene H; Pettersson, Gösta B

    2013-11-01

    To study the effect of mitral valve repair with or without concomitant tricuspid valve repair on functional tricuspid regurgitation and right ventricular function. From 2001 to 2007, 1833 patients with degenerative mitral valve disease, a structurally normal tricuspid valve, and no coronary artery disease underwent mitral valve repair, and 67 underwent concomitant tricuspid valve repair. Right ventricular function (myocardial performance index and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion) was measured before and after surgery using transthoracic echocardiography for randomly selected patients with tricuspid regurgitation grade 0, 1+, and 2+ (100 patients for each grade) and 93 with grade 3+/4+, 393 patients in total. In patients with mild (<3+) preoperative tricuspid regurgitation, mitral valve repair alone was associated with reduced tricuspid regurgitation and mild worsening of right ventricular function. Tricuspid regurgitation of 2+ or greater developed in fewer than 20%, and right ventricular function had improved, but not to preoperative levels, at 3 years. In patients with severe (3+/4+) preoperative tricuspid regurgitation, mitral valve repair alone reduced tricuspid regurgitation and improved right ventricular function; however, tricuspid regurgitation of 2+ or greater returned and right ventricular function worsened toward preoperative levels within 3 years. Concomitant tricuspid valve repair effectively eliminated severe tricuspid regurgitation and improved right ventricular function. Also, over time, tricuspid regurgitation did not return and right ventricular function continued to improve to levels comparable to that of patients with lower grades of preoperative tricuspid regurgitation. In patients with mitral valve disease and severe tricuspid regurgitation, mitral valve repair alone was associated with improved tricuspid regurgitation and right ventricular function. However, the improvements were incomplete and temporary. In contrast, concomitant tricuspid valve repair effectively and durably eliminated severe tricuspid regurgitation and improved right ventricular function toward normal, supporting an aggressive approach to important functional tricuspid regurgitation. Copyright © 2013 The American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Tricuspid regurgitation and right ventricular function after mitral valve surgery with or without concomitant tricuspid valve procedure

    PubMed Central

    Desai, Ravi R.; Vargas Abello, Lina Maria; Klein, Allan L.; Marwick, Thomas H.; Krasuski, Richard A.; Ye, Ying; Nowicki, Edward R.; Rajeswaran, Jeevanantham; Blackstone, Eugene H.; Pettersson, Gösta B.

    2014-01-01

    Objectives To study the effect of mitral valve repair with or without concomitant tricuspid valve repair on functional tricuspid regurgitation and right ventricular function. Methods From 2001 to 2007, 1833 patients with degenerative mitral valve disease, a structurally normal tricuspid valve, and no coronary artery disease underwent mitral valve repair, and 67 underwent concomitant tricuspid valve repair. Right ventricular function (myocardial performance index and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion) was measured before and after surgery using transthoracic echocardiography for randomly selected patients with tricuspid regurgitation grade 0, 1+, and 2+(100 patients for each grade) and 93 with grade 3+/4+, 393 patients in total. Results In patients with mild (<3+) preoperative tricuspid regurgitation, mitral valve repair alone was associated with reduced tricuspid regurgitation and mild worsening of right ventricular function. Tricuspid regurgitation of 2+or greater developed in fewer than 20%, and right ventricular function had improved, but not to preoperative levels, at 3 years. In patients with severe (3+/4+) preoperative tricuspid regurgitation, mitral valve repair alone reduced tricuspid regurgitation and improved right ventricular function; however, tricuspid regurgitation of 2+ or greater returned and right ventricular function worsened toward preoperative levels within 3 years. Concomitant tricuspid valve repair effectively eliminated severe tricuspid regurgitation and improved right ventricular function. Also, over time, tricuspid regurgitation did not return and right ventricular function continued to improve to levels comparable to that of patients with lower grades of preoperative tricuspid regurgitation. Conclusions In patients with mitral valve disease and severe tricuspid regurgitation, mitral valve repair alone was associated with improved tricuspid regurgitation and right ventricular function. However, the improvements were incomplete and temporary. In contrast, concomitant tricuspid valve repair effectively and durably eliminated severe tricuspid regurgitation and improved right ventricular function toward normal, supporting an aggressive approach to important functional tricuspid regurgitation. PMID:23010580

  20. Health benefits of air pollution abatement policy: Role of the shape of the concentration-response function.

    PubMed

    Pope, C Arden; Cropper, Maureen; Coggins, Jay; Cohen, Aaron

    2015-05-01

    There is strong evidence that fine particulate matter (aerodynamic diameter<2.5 μm; PM2.5) air pollution contributes to increased risk of disease and death. Estimates of the burden of disease attributable to PM2.5 pollution and benefits of reducing pollution are dependent upon the shape of the concentration response (C-R) functions. Recent evidence suggests that the C-R function between PM2.5 air pollution and mortality risk may be supralinear across wide ranges of exposure. Such results imply that incremental pollution abatement efforts may yield greater benefits in relatively clean areas than in highly polluted areas. The role of the shape of the C-R function in evaluating and understanding the costs and health benefits of air pollution abatement policy is explored. There remain uncertainties regarding the shape of the C-R function, and additional efforts to more fully understand the C-R relationships between PM2.5 and adverse health effects are needed to allow for more informed and effective air pollution abatement policies. Current evidence, however, suggests that there are benefits both from reducing air pollution in the more polluted areas and from continuing to reduce air pollution in cleaner areas. Estimates of the benefits of reducing PM2.5 air pollution are highly dependent upon the shape of the PM2.5-mortality concentration-response (C-R) function. Recent evidence indicates that this C-R function may be supralinear across wide ranges of exposure, suggesting that incremental pollution abatement efforts may yield greater benefits in relatively clean areas than in highly polluted areas. This paper explores the role of the shape of the C-R function in evaluating and understanding the costs and health benefits of PM2.5 air pollution abatement.

  1. Lexile Reading Growth as a Function of Starting Level in At-Risk Middle School Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Archer, Laura E.

    2010-01-01

    This study investigated average yearly reading growth norms of at-risk middle school students as a function of start of year reading grade level. Data for this study were collected from an urban school in the western United States over five years and tracked the yearly growth of 2,485 seventh- and eighth-grade students using a Lexile-linked…

  2. The Functions and Benefits of the ePortfolio in Craft Education at the Primary Level

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Saarinen, Auli; Seitamaa-Hakkarainen, Pirita; Hakkarainen, Kai

    2016-01-01

    The authors investigated primary school pupils' experiences using an electronic portfolio in their craft education for a three year period, from the 3rd grade until the end of the 5th grade. This article emphasizes the functions and the benefits of the ePortfolio method and outlines general user experiences based on pupil interviews (N = 38),…

  3. A High-Performance and Recyclable Al-Air Coin Cell Based on Eco-Friendly Chitosan Hydrogel Membranes.

    PubMed

    Liu, Yisi; Sun, Qian; Yang, Xiaofei; Liang, Jianneng; Wang, Biqiong; Koo, Alicia; Li, Ruying; Li, Jie; Sun, Xueliang

    2018-05-18

    Aluminum-air batteries are a promising power supply for electronics due to its low cost and high energy density. However, portable coin-type Al-air batteries operating under ambient air condition for small electronic appliances have rarely been reported. Herein, coin cell-type Al-air batteries using cost-effective and eco-friendly chitosan hydrogel membranes modified by SiO2, SnO2, and ZnO have been prepared and assembled. The Al-air coin cell employing chitosan hydrogel membrane containing 10 wt.% SiO2 as a separator exhibits better discharge performance with a higher flat voltage plateau, longer discharge duration, and higher power density than the cells using a chitosan hydrogel membrane containing SnO2 or ZnO. Moreover, we also demonstrate that the presented Al-air coin cell can be recycled by a series of eco-friendly procedures using food grade ingredients, resulting in recycled products that are environmentally safe and ready for reuse. The Al-air coin cell adopting a recycled cathode from a fully discharged Al-air coin cell using the above-mentioned procedure has shown comparable performance to cells assembled with a new cathode. With these merits of enhanced electrochemical performance and recyclability, this new Al-air coin cell with modified chitosan hydrogel membrane can find wide applications for powering portable and small-size electronics.

  4. Awake surgery for hemispheric low-grade gliomas: oncological, functional and methodological differences between pediatric and adult populations.

    PubMed

    Trevisi, Gianluca; Roujeau, Thomas; Duffau, Hugues

    2016-10-01

    Brain mapping through a direct cortical and subcortical electrical stimulation during an awake craniotomy has gained an increasing popularity as a powerful tool to prevent neurological deficit while increasing extent of resection of hemispheric diffuse low-grade gliomas in adults. However, few case reports or very limited series of awake surgery in children are currently available in the literature. In this paper, we review the oncological and functional differences between pediatric and adult populations, and the methodological specificities that may limit the use of awake mapping in pediatric low-grade glioma surgery. This could be explained by the fact that pediatric low-grade gliomas have a different epidemiology and biologic behavior in comparison to adults, with pilocytic astrocytomas (WHO grade I glioma) as the most frequent histotype, and with WHO grade II gliomas less prone to anaplastic transformation than their adult counterparts. In addition, aside from the issue of poor collaboration of younger children under 10 years of age, some anatomical and functional peculiarities of children developing brain (cortical and subcortical myelination, maturation of neural networks and of specialized cortical areas) can influence direct electrical stimulation methodology and sensitivity, limiting its use in children. Therefore, even though awake procedure with cortical and axonal stimulation mapping can be adapted in a specific subgroup of children with a diffuse glioma from the age of 10 years, only few pediatric patients are nonetheless candidates for awake brain surgery.

  5. Characterizing Cyclostationary Features of Digital Modulated Signals with Empirical Measurements using Spectral Correlation Function

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-06-01

    USING SPECTRAL CORRELATION FUNCTION THESIS Mujun Song, Captain, ROKA AFIT/GCE/ENG/11-09 DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE AIR UNIVERSITY AIR...Management Air Force Institute of Technology Air University Air Education and Training Command In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the...generator, Agilent E4438C, ESG Vector Signal Generator. Universal Software Radio Peripheral 2 (USRP2), which is a Software Defined Radio (SDR), is used

  6. Computer-Aided Grading of Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) using HRCT

    PubMed Central

    Yao, Jianhua; Avila, Nilo; Dwyer, Andrew; Taveira-DaSilva, Angelo M.; Hathaway, Olanda M.; Moss, Joel

    2010-01-01

    Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a multisystem disorder associated with proliferation of smooth muscle-like cells, which leads to destruction of lung parenchyma. Subjective grading of LAM on HRCT is imprecise and can be arduous especially in cases with severe involvement. We propose a computer-aided evaluation system that grades LAM involvement based on analysis of lung texture patterns. A committee of support vector machines is employed for classification. The system was tested on 36 patients. The computer grade demonstrates good correlation with subjective radiologist grade (R=0.91, p<0.0001) and pulmonary functional tests (R=0.85, p<0.0001). The grade also provides precise progression assessment of disease over time. PMID:21625320

  7. Effect of cold air inhalation and isometric exercise on coronary blood flow and myocardial function in humans

    PubMed Central

    Muller, Matthew D.; Gao, Zhaohui; Drew, Rachel C.; Herr, Michael D.; Leuenberger, Urs A.

    2011-01-01

    The effects of cold air inhalation and isometric exercise on coronary blood flow are currently unknown, despite the fact that both cold air and acute exertion trigger angina in clinical populations. In this study, we used transthoracic Doppler echocardiography to measure coronary blood flow velocity (CBV; left anterior descending coronary artery) and myocardial function during cold air inhalation and handgrip exercise. Ten young healthy subjects underwent the following protocols: 5 min of inhaling cold air (cold air protocol), 5 min of inhaling thermoneutral air (sham protocol), 2 min of isometric handgrip at 30% of maximal voluntary contraction (grip protocol), and 5 min of isometric handgrip at 30% maximal voluntary contraction while breathing cold air (cold + grip protocol). Heart rate, blood pressure, inspired air temperature, CBV, myocardial function (tissue Doppler imaging), O2 saturation, and pulmonary function were measured. The rate-pressure product (RPP) was used as an index of myocardial O2 demand, whereas CBV was used as an index of myocardial O2 supply. Compared with the sham protocol, the cold air protocol caused a significantly higher RPP, but there was a significant reduction in CBV. The cold + grip protocol caused a significantly greater increase in RPP compared with the grip protocol (P = 0.045), but the increase in CBV was significantly less (P = 0.039). However, myocardial function was not impaired during the cold + grip protocol relative to the grip protocol alone. Collectively, these data indicate that there is a supply-demand mismatch in the coronary vascular bed when cold ambient air is breathed during acute exertion but myocardial function is preserved, suggesting an adequate redistribution of blood flow. PMID:21940852

  8. Executive function mediates prospective relationships between sleep duration and sedentary behavior in children.

    PubMed

    Warren, Christopher; Riggs, Nathaniel; Pentz, Mary Ann

    2016-10-01

    Childhood sedentary behavior has been linked to increased obesity risk. Prior work has identified associations between sedentary behavior, executive function (EF), and sleep. This study tested the hypothesis that reduced sleep duration may adversely impact EF and lead to increased childhood sedentary behavior. Southern California schoolchildren participating in the school-based health promotion program Pathways to Health (N=709) were assessed annually from 4th through 6th grades (2010-2013) on self-report measures of sedentary behavior, sleep duration, and executive function. A series of path models were specified treating average nightly sleep duration and weekend wake/bed-time shift at 4th grade as predictors of 6th grade sedentary behavior. Four EF subdomains were tested as potential mediators of longitudinal associations at 5th grade. Significant associations between average nightly sleep duration, EF and sedentary behavior were identified (p<0.05), adjusting for participant gender, physical activity, SES, ethnicity, program group assignment, and the presence/absence of parental screen time rules. Fifth grade overall EF (p<0.05)-and in particular the subdomains of inhibitory control (p<0.05) and organization of materials (p<0.01)-significantly mediated the relationship between 4th grade sleep duration and 6th grade sedentary behavior (p<0.05). Furthermore, delay of weekend bed- or wake-times relative to weekdays was prospectively associated with decreased overall EF (p<0.05), but not increased sedentary behavior (p=0.35 for bed-time delay; p=0.64 for wake-time delay), irrespective of average nightly sleep duration. Findings suggest that sleep promotion efforts may reduce children's sedentary behavior both directly and indirectly through changes in EF. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  9. Executive function mediates prospective relationships between sleep duration and sedentary behavior in children

    PubMed Central

    Warren, Christopher; Riggs, Nathaniel; Pentz, Mary Ann

    2016-01-01

    Childhood sedentary behavior has been linked to increased obesity risk. Prior work has identified associations between sedentary behavior, executive function (EF), and sleep. This study tested the hypothesis that reduced sleep duration may adversely impact EF and lead to increased childhood sedentary behavior. Southern California schoolchildren participating in the school-based health promotion program Pathways to Health (N = 709) were assessed annually from 4th through 6th grades (2010–2013) on self-report measures of sedentary behavior, sleep duration, and executive function. A series of path models were specified treating average nightly sleep duration and weekend wake/bed-time shift at 4th grade as predictors of 6th grade sedentary behavior. Four EF subdomains were tested as potential mediators of longitudinal associations at 5th grade. Significant associations between average nightly sleep duration, EF and sedentary behavior were identified (p < 0.05), adjusting for participant gender, physical activity, SES, ethnicity, program group assignment, and the presence/absence of parental screen time rules. Fifth grade overall EF (p < 0.05)—and in particular the subdomains of inhibitory control (p < 0.05) and organization of materials (p < 0.01)—significantly mediated the relationship between 4th grade sleep duration and 6th grade sedentary behavior (p < 0.05). Furthermore, delay of weekend bed- or wake-times relative to weekdays was prospectively associated with decreased overall EF (p < 0.05), but not increased sedentary behavior (p = 0.35 for bed-time delay; p = 0.64 for wake-time delay), irrespective of average nightly sleep duration. Findings suggest that sleep promotion efforts may reduce children’s sedentary behavior both directly and indirectly through changes in EF. PMID:27477059

  10. Temporary ovarian suppression during chemotherapy to preserve ovarian function and fertility in breast cancer patients: A GRADE approach for evidence evaluation and recommendations by the Italian Association of Medical Oncology.

    PubMed

    Lambertini, Matteo; Cinquini, Michela; Moschetti, Ivan; Peccatori, Fedro A; Anserini, Paola; Valenzano Menada, Mario; Tomirotti, Maurizio; Del Mastro, Lucia

    2017-01-01

    The development of premature ovarian failure and subsequent infertility are possible consequences of chemotherapy use in pre-menopausal women with early-stage breast cancer. Among the available strategies for fertility preservation, pharmacological protection of the ovaries using luteinising hormone-releasing hormone analogues (LHRHa) during chemotherapy has the potential to restore ovarian function and fertility after anticancer treatments; however, the possible efficacy and clinical application of this strategy has been highly debated in the last years. Following the availability of new data on this controversial topic, the Panel of the Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM) Clinical Practice Guideline on fertility preservation in cancer patients decided to apply the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology around the relevant and current question on the clinical utility of temporary ovarian suppression with LHRHa during chemotherapy as a strategy to preserve ovarian function and fertility in breast cancer patients. To answer this question, preservation of ovarian function and fertility were judged as critical outcomes for the decision-making. Three possible outcomes of harm were identified: LHRHa-associated toxicities, potential antagonism between concurrent LHRHa and chemotherapy, and lack of the prognostic impact of chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian failure. According to the GRADE evaluation conducted, the result was a strong positive recommendation in favour of using this option to preserve ovarian function and fertility in breast cancer patients. The present manuscript aims to update and summarise the evidence for the use of this strategy in light of the new data published up to January 2016, according to the GRADE process. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  11. Microstructural design of functionally graded coatings composed of suspension plasma sprayed hydroxyapatite and bioactive glass.

    PubMed

    Cattini, Andrea; Bellucci, Devis; Sola, Antonella; Pawłowski, Lech; Cannillo, Valeria

    2014-04-01

    Various bioactive glass/hydroxyapatite (HA) functional coatings were designed by the suspension plasma spraying (SPS) technique. Their microstructure, scratch resistance, and apatite-forming ability in a simulated body fluid (SBF) were compared. The functional coatings design included: (i) composite coating, that is, randomly distributed constituent phases; (ii) duplex coating with glass top layer onto HA layer; and (iii) graded coating with a gradual changing composition starting from pure HA at the interface with the metal substrate up to pure glass on the surface. The SPS was a suitable coating technique to produce all the coating designs. The SBF tests revealed that the presence of a pure glass layer on the working surface significantly improved the reactivity of the duplex and graded coatings, but the duplex coating suffered a relatively low scratch resistance because of residual stresses. The graded coating therefore provided the best compromise between mechanical reliability and apatite-forming ability in SBF. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 102B: 551-560, 2014. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  12. Comprehension Challenges in the Fourth Grade: The Roles of Text Cohesion, Text Genre, and Readers' Prior Knowledge

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    McNamara, Danielle S.; Ozuru, Yasuhiro; Floyd, Randy G.

    2011-01-01

    We examined young readers' comprehension as a function of text genre (narrative, science), text cohesion (high, low), and readers' abilities (reading decoding skills and world knowledge). The overarching purpose of this study was to contribute to our understanding of the "fourth grade slump". Children in grade 4 read four texts,…

  13. 75 FR 55552 - Polyvinyl Alcohol From Taiwan: Preliminary Determination of Sales at Less Than Fair Value and...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-09-13

    ...-grade low-ash PVA are not included in the scope of this investigation. PVB-grade low-ash PVA is defined... amended the scope of the petition and the definition of the domestic like product to exclude ``PVB-grade... that fall within or that are functionally equivalent to and commercially competitive with products that...

  14. Orchestrating Life Skills: The Effect of Increased School-Based Music Classes on Children's Social Competence and Self-Esteem

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Rickard, Nikki S.; Appelman, Peter; James, Richard; Murphy, Fintan; Gill, Anneliese; Bambrick, Caroline

    2013-01-01

    Music training has been found to produce a range of cognitive benefits for young children, although well-controlled evaluation of the effects on psychosocial functioning has been limited. In this study participants were recruited from two grade levels (prep/grade 1, "N" = 210; grade 3, "N" = 149), and were allocated to a music…

  15. A Study of 3rd and 5th Grade Students' Oral Language during the Writing Process in Elementary Classrooms.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kasten, Wendy C.; Clarke, Barbara K.

    Using ethnographic techniques to observe seven fifth grade and seven third grade students, a study examined the function of children's oral language during creative writing sessions in typical classroom situations. Findings indicated that oral language plays an important role in the writing process; specifically, that it (1) accompanies writing as…

  16. Cognitive and Stylistic Features of Reporting and Classificatory Writing by Senior High School Students.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Fox, Barry

    Differences between reporting and classificatory functions in writing were examined in the responses of grade 10 and grade 12 students: 60 who were successful English students, and 60 on the borderline of passing in each of the grades. The reporting tasks required students to write compositions describing their first day in a high school or some…

  17. The Relationship of Piaget's Stages of Cognitive Development to First Grade Reading Achievement.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Borucki, Diane Marie

    The relationship between level of cognitive functioning at the beginning of first grade and level of reading achievement at the end of first grade was investigated in a sample of 325 children. The EITS Concept Assessment Kit-Conservation was used to classify the children as being in the preconceptual stage, the intuitive stage, or the concrete…

  18. Functional Description of Air Traffic Control

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1971-04-01

    The document contains a description of air traffic control in terms of generic operational functions. The functions are grouped by flight phase and by major system function (navigation, surveillance, control and communication). More detailed descript...

  19. Hypercarbic cardiorespiratory reflexes in the facultative air-breathing fish jeju (Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus): the role of branchial CO2 chemoreceptors.

    PubMed

    de Lima Boijink, Cheila; Florindo, Luiz Henrique; Leite, Cleo A Costa; Kalinin, Ana Lúcia; Milsom, William K; Rantin, Francisco Tadeu

    2010-08-15

    The aim of the present study was to determine the roles that externally versus internally oriented CO(2)/H(+)-sensitive chemoreceptors might play in promoting cardiorespiratory responses to environmental hypercarbia in the air-breathing fish, Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus (jeju). Fish were exposed to graded hypercarbia (1, 2.5, 5, 10 and 20% CO(2)) and also to graded levels of environmental acidosis (pH approximately 7.0, 6.0, 5.8, 5.6, 5.3 and 4.7) equal to the pH levels of the hypercarbic water to distinguish the relative roles of CO(2) versus H(+). We also injected boluses of CO(2)-equilibrated solutions (5, 10 and 20% CO(2)) and acid solutions equilibrated to the same pH as the CO(2) boluses into the caudal vein (internal) and buccal cavity (external) to distinguish between internal and external stimuli. The putative location of the chemoreceptors was determined by bilateral denervation of branches of cranial nerves IX (glossopharyngeal) and X (vagus) to the gills. The data indicate that the chemoreceptors eliciting bradycardia, hypertension and gill ventilatory responses (increased frequency and amplitude) to hypercarbia are exclusively branchial, externally oriented and respond specifically to changes in CO(2) and not H(+). Those involved in producing the cardiovascular responses appeared to be distributed across all gill arches while those involved in the gill ventilatory responses were located primarily on the first gill arch. Higher levels of aquatic CO(2) depressed gill ventilation and stimulated air breathing. The chemoreceptors involved in producing air breathing in response to hypercarbia also appeared to be branchial, distributed across all gill arches and responded specifically to changes in aquatic CO(2). This would suggest that chemoreceptor groups with different orientations (blood versus water) are involved in eliciting air-breathing responses to hypercarbia in jeju.

  20. Parametric performance of circumferentially grooved heat pipes with homogeneous and graded-porosity slab wicks at cryogenic temperatures

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Groll, M.; Pittman, R. B.; Eninger, J. E.

    1975-01-01

    A recently developed, potentially high-performance nonarterial wick has been extensively tested. This slab wick has an axially varying porosity which can be tailored to match the local stress imposed on the wick. The purpose of the tests was to establish the usefulness of the graded-porosity slab wick at cryogenic temperatures between 110 K and 260 K, with methane and ethane as working fluids. For comparison, a homogeneous (i.e., uniform porosity) slab wick was also tested. The tests included: (1) maximum heat pipe performance as a function of fluid inventory, (2) maximum performance as a function of operating temperature, (3) maximum performance as a function of evaporator elevation, and (4) influence of slab wick orientation on performance. The experimental data was compared with theoretical predictions obtained with the computer program GRADE.

  1. Parametric performance of circumferentially grooved heat pipes with homogeneous and graded-porosity slab wicks at cryogenic temperatures. [methane and ethane working fluids

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Groll, M.; Pittman, R. B.; Eninger, J. E.

    1976-01-01

    A recently developed, potentially high-performance nonarterial wick was extensively tested. This slab wick has an axially varying porosity which can be tailored to match the local stress imposed on the wick. The purpose of the tests was to establish the usefulness of the graded-porosity slab wick at cryogenic temperatures between 110 and 260 K, with methane and ethane as working fluids. For comparison, a homogeneous (i.e., uniform porosity) slab wick was also tested. The tests included: maximum heat pipe performance as a function of fluid inventory, maximum performance as a function of operating temperature, maximum performance as a function of evaporator elevation, and influence of slab wick orientation on performance. The experimental data were compared with theoretical predictions obtained with the GRADE computer program.

  2. Measuring surface temperature and grading pathological changes of airway tissue in a canine model of inhalational thermal injury.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Ran; Di, La-na; Zhao, Xiao-zhuo; Wang, Cheng; Zhang, Guo-an

    2013-06-01

    Airway tissue shows unexpected invulnerability to heated air. The mechanisms of this phenomenon are open to debate. This study was designed to measure the surface temperatures at different locations of the airway, and to explore the relationship between the tissue's surface temperature and injury severity. Twenty dogs were randomly divided into four groups, including three experimental groups (six dogs in each) to inhale heated air at 70-80 °C (group I), 150-160 °C (group II) and 310-320 °C (group III) and a control group (two dogs, only for histological observation). Injury time was 20 min. Mucosal surface temperatures of the epiglottis (point A), cricoid cartilage (point B) and lower trachea (point C) were measured. Dogs in group I-III were divided into three subgroups (two in each), to be assayed at 12, 24 and 36 h after injury, respectively. For each dog, four tissue parts (epiglottis, larynx, lower trachea and terminal bronchiole) were microscopically observed and graded according to an original pathological scoring system (score range: 0-27). Surface temperatures of the airway mucosa increased slowly to 40.60±3.29 °C, and the highest peak temperature was 48.3 °C (group III, point A). The pathological score of burned tissues was 4.12±4.94 (0.0-18.0), suggesting slight to moderate injuries. Air temperature and airway location both influenced mucosal temperature and pathological scores very significantly, and there was a very significant positive correlation between tissue temperature and injury severity. Compared to the inhalational air hyperthermia, airway surface temperature was much lower, but was still positively correlated with thermal injury severity. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd and ISBI. All rights reserved.

  3. A joint prevention and control mechanism for air pollution in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region in china based on long-term and massive data mining of pollutant concentration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Hongbo; Zhao, Laijun

    2018-02-01

    China's Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH) region suffers from the country's worst air pollution. The problem has caused widespread concern both at home and abroad. Based on long-term and massive data mining of PM2.5 and PM10 concentration, we found that these pollutants showed similar variations in four seasons, but the most severe pollution was in winter. Through cluster analysis of the winter daily average concentration (DAC) of the two pollutants, we defined regions with similar variations in pollutant concentrations in winter. For the most polluted cities in BTH, the relationship between correlation coefficients for winter DAC and the distance between cities revealed that PM2.5 has regional, large-scale characteristics, with concentrated outbreaks, whereas PM10 has local, small-scale characteristics, with outbreaks at multiple locations. By selecting the key cities with the strongest linear relationship between the pollutant's DAC of each city and the daily individual air quality index values of the BTH region and through cluster analysis on the correlations between the pollutant DACs of the key cities, we defined regional divisions suitable for Joint Prevention and Control of Atmospheric Pollution (JPCAP) program to control PM2.5 and PM10. Comprehensively considering the degree of influence of regional atmospheric pollution control (RAPC) on air quality in BTH, as well as the elasticity and urgency of RAPC, we defined the control grades of the JPCAP regions. We found both the regions and corresponding control grades were consistent for PM2.5 and PM10. The thinking and methods of atmospheric pollution control we proposed will have broad significance for implementation of RAPC in other regions around the world.

  4. WE-AB-202-01: Evaluating the Toxicity Reduction with CT-Ventilation Functional Avoidance Radiation Therapy

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

    Vinogradskiy, Y; Miyasaka, Y; Kadoya, N

    Purpose: CT-ventilation is an exciting new imaging modality that uses 4DCTs to calculate lung ventilation. Studies have proposed to use 4DCT-ventilation imaging for functional avoidance radiotherapy which implies designing treatment plans to spare functional portions of the lung. Although retrospective studies have been performed to evaluate the dosimetric gains to functional lung; no work has been done to translate the dosimetric gains to an improvement in pulmonary toxicity. The purpose of our work was to evaluate the potential reduction in toxicity for 4DCT-ventilation based functional avoidance. Methods: 70 lung cancer patients with 4DCT imaging were used for the study. CT-ventilationmore » maps were calculated using the patient’s 4DCT, deformable image registrations, and a density-change-based algorithm. Radiation pneumonitis was graded using imaging and clinical information. Log-likelihood methods were used to fit a normal-tissue-complication-probability (NTCP) model predicting grade 2+ radiation pneumonitis as a function of doses (mean and V20) to functional lung (>15% ventilation). For 20 patients a functional plan was generated that reduced dose to functional lung while meeting RTOG 0617-based constraints. The NTCP model was applied to the functional plan to determine the reduction in toxicity with functional planning Results: The mean dose to functional lung was 16.8 and 17.7 Gy with the functional and clinical plans respectively. The corresponding grade 2+ pneumonitis probability was 26.9% with the clinically-used plan and 24.6% with the functional plan (8.5% reduction). The V20-based grade 2+ pneumonitis probability was 23.7% with the clinically-used plan and reduced to 19.6% with the functional plan (20.9% reduction). Conclusion: Our results revealed a reduction of 9–20% in complication probability with functional planning. To our knowledge this is the first study to apply complication probability to convert dosimetric results to toxicity improvement. The results presented in the current work provide seminal data for prospective clinical trials in functional avoidance. YV discloses funding from State of Colorado. TY discloses National Lung Cancer Partnership; Young Investigator Research grant.« less

  5. Hydrophilic property of 316L stainless steel after treatment by atmospheric pressure corona streamer plasma using surface-sensitive analyses

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Al-Hamarneh, Ibrahim; Pedrow, Patrick; Eskhan, Asma; Abu-Lail, Nehal

    2012-10-01

    Surgical-grade 316L stainless steel (SS 316L) had its surface hydrophilic property enhanced by processing in a corona streamer plasma reactor using O2 gas mixed with Ar at atmospheric pressure. Reactor excitation was 60 Hz ac high-voltage (0-10 kVRMS) applied to a multi-needle-to-grounded screen electrode configuration. The treated surface was characterized with a contact angle tester. Surface free energy (SFE) for the treated stainless steel increased measurably compared to the untreated surface. The Ar-O2 plasma was more effective in enhancing the SFE than Ar-only plasma. Optimum conditions for the plasma treatment system used in this study were obtained. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterization of the chemical composition of the treated surfaces confirms the existence of new oxygen-containing functional groups contributing to the change in the hydrophilic nature of the surface. These new functional groups were generated by surface reactions caused by reactive oxidation of substrate species. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) images were generated to investigate morphological and roughness changes on the plasma treated surfaces. The aging effect in air after treatment was also studied.

  6. Functionally Graded Designer Viscoelastic Materials Tailored to Perform Prescribed Tasks with Probabilistic Failures and Lifetimes

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

    Hilton, Harry H.

    Protocols are developed for formulating optimal viscoelastic designer functionally graded materials tailored to best respond to prescribed loading and boundary conditions. In essence, an inverse approach is adopted where material properties instead of structures per se are designed and then distributed throughout structural elements. The final measure of viscoelastic material efficacy is expressed in terms of failure probabilities vs. survival time000.

  7. Promoting Peer Acceptance of Females with Higher-Functioning Autism in a Mainstream Education Setting: A Replication and Extension of the Effects of an Autism Anti-Stigma Program

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ranson, Natalia J.; Byrne, Mitchell K.

    2014-01-01

    This study evaluated the effects of an eight-session female higher-functioning autism anti-stigma program on the knowledge, attitudes and behavioural intentions of adolescent girls. Participants were seventh-, eighth- and ninth-grade students (N = 273) in a mainstream school. Two-eighth-grade classes were randomly allocated to the intervention…

  8. Predictive Models for Dynamic Brittle Fracture and Damage at High-velocity Impact in Multilayered Targets

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-11-01

    layered glass/PC systems,Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs), polycrystalline AlON, and fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) materials. For the first time we...multi-layered glass/PC systems,Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs), polycrystalline AlON, and fiber-reinforced composite (FRC) materials. For the... Composite Lamina with Peridynamics, International Journal for Multiscale Computational Engineering, (12 2011): 0. doi: Florin Bobaru, Youn Doh Ha

  9. Math Achievement, Numerical Processing, and Executive Functions in Girls with Turner Syndrome: Do Girls with Turner Syndrome Have Math Learning Disability?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mazzocco, Michele M. M.; Hanich, Laurie B.

    2010-01-01

    Turner syndrome is a common genetic disorder associated with select deficits in executive functions, working memory and mathematics. In Study 1, we examined growth trajectories of skills in these areas, from grades 1 to 6, among girls with or without Turner syndrome. Rates of growth and performance levels at 6th grade, on an untimed math…

  10. Does the Value of Dynamic Assessment in Predicting End-of-First-Grade Mathematics Performance Differ as a Function of English Language Proficiency?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Seethaler, Pamela M.; Fuchs, Lynn S.; Fuchs, Douglas; Compton, Donald L.

    2016-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to assess the added value of dynamic assessment (DA) for predicting individual differences in year-end first-grade calculation (CA) and word-problem (WP) performance as a function of limited English proficiency (LEP) status. Beginning first graders (129 LEP; 163 non-LEP) were assessed on brief and static mathematics…

  11. Vibration control of beams using constrained layer damping with functionally graded viscoelastic cores: theory and experiments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    El-Sabbagh, A.; Baz, A.

    2006-03-01

    Conventionally, the viscoelastic cores of Constrained Layer Damping (CLD) treatments are made of materials that have uniform shear modulus. Under such conditions, it is well-recognized that these treatments are only effective near their edges where the shear strains attain their highest values. In order to enhance the damping characteristics of the CLD treatments, we propose to manufacture the cores from Functionally Graded ViscoElastic Materials (FGVEM) that have optimally selected gradient of the shear modulus over the length of the treatments. With such optimized distribution of the shear modulus, the shear strain can be enhanced, and the energy dissipation can be maximized. The theory governing the vibration of beams treated with CLD, that has functionally graded viscoelastic cores, is presented using the finite element method (FEM). The predictions of the FEM are validated experimentally for plain beams, beams treated conventional CLD, and beams with CLD/FGVEM of different configurations. The obtained results indicate a close agreement between theory and experiments. Furthermore, the obtained results demonstrate the effectiveness of the new class of CLD with functionally graded cores in enhancing the energy dissipation over the conventional CLD over a broad frequency band. Extension of the proposed one-dimensional beam/CLD/FGVEM system to more complex structures is a natural extension to the present study.

  12. Impact of interfacial imperfection on transverse wave in a functionally graded piezoelectric material structure with corrugated boundaries

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar Singh, Abhishek; Kumar, Santan; Kumari, Richa

    2018-03-01

    The propagation behavior of Love-type wave in a corrugated functionally graded piezoelectric material layered structure has been taken into account. Concretely, the layered structure incorporates a corrugated functionally graded piezoelectric material layer imperfectly bonded to a functionally graded piezoelectric material half-space. An analytical treatment has been employed to determine the dispersion relation for both cases of electrically open condition and electrically short condition. The phase velocity of the Love-type wave has been computed numerically and its dependence on the wave number has been depicted graphically for a specific type of corrugated boundary surfaces for both said conditions. The crux of the study lies in the fact that the imperfect bonding of the interface, the corrugated boundaries present in the layer, and the material properties of the layer and the half-space strongly influence the phase velocity of the Love-type wave. It can be remarkably noted that the imperfect bonding of the interface reduces the phase velocity of the Love-type wave significantly. As a special case of the problem, it is noticed that the procured dispersion relation for both cases of electrically open and electrically short conditions is in accordance with the classical Love wave equation.

  13. Sex Differences in Neuropsychological Function and Manganese in Air, Blood, Hair, and Toenails in Ohio Residents

    EPA Science Inventory

    Background: This study compares manganese (Mn) in air, blood, hair, and toenails and neuropsychological function of 110 women and 76 men, environmentally exposed to Mn in air (Mn-air) in two Ohio towns from a ferromanganese smelter and a soil Mn-packaging facility.Method: Biomark...

  14. Water, Air, Fire, and Earth--A Developmental Study in Portugal of Environmental Conceptions and Values.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kahn, Peter H., Jr.; Lourenco, Orlando

    This study contributes to an emerging body of research on the development of the human relationship with nature. One hundred and twenty participants from four grade levels (fifth, eighth, eleventh, and college) were interviewed about their environmental conceptions and values. Results showed that participants valued many aspects of nature and…

  15. Terra II--A Spaceship Earth Simulation for the Middle Grades

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mastrude, Peggy

    1972-01-01

    The unit of study consists of four lessons based on the concept that the earth is a large system made up of many small systems (air, food, water, man, etc.). Complete procedures are included to study the environment, examine developing countries, determine interaction between peoples and nations. The problem solving excercise is an inquiry…

  16. The Impact of Various Levels of Professional Military Education and Formal Education on Selected Supervisory Dimensions

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1983-08-01

    The data may be recalled by demographics such as personnel category, age, sex . Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC), pay grade, time in service and...dimensions to determine the impact of various levels of PME and formal education. To reduce maturational impact, time in sevice will be used as a

  17. Turnover Intentions: A Qualitative Analysis of Comments from Air Force Civil Engineering Company Grade Officers

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-03-22

    this job exist outside the AF and there are benefits and drawbacks to military and civilian careers in the engineering field. What incentive do CE...like the AF at large doesnt appreciate my work anywhere. It’s personally disappointing, and somewhat depressing. It’s quite a pendulum swing from

  18. Air Quality and Pollution. Environmental Studies. 4 Color Transparencies, Reproducibles & Teaching Guide. Grade 3, 4, 5.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ortleb, Edward P.; And Others

    The world is faced with a variety of environmental problems. No country has escaped pollution and resource depletion. Basic ecological principles are often ignored and sometimes this contributes to ecological disasters. This volume is designed to provide basic information about the quality of the earth's atmosphere. The visual aids, worksheets,…

  19. 40 CFR 421.223 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... molybdenum plus vanadium plus pure grade molybdenum produced Arsenic 27.120 12.097 Chromium 7.219 2.927 Lead...) Vanadium decomposition wet air pollution control. BAT Limitations for the Secondary Molybdenum and Vanadium... per million pounds) of vanadium produced by decomposition Arsenic 0.000 0.000 Chromium 0.000 0.000...

  20. 40 CFR 421.223 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... molybdenum plus vanadium plus pure grade molybdenum produced Arsenic 27.120 12.097 Chromium 7.219 2.927 Lead...) Vanadium decomposition wet air pollution control. BAT Limitations for the Secondary Molybdenum and Vanadium... per million pounds) of vanadium produced by decomposition Arsenic 0.000 0.000 Chromium 0.000 0.000...

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