Applications of remote sensor data to geologic and economic analysis on the Bonanza Test Site, Colorado

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reeves, R. G. (Compiler)

1972-01-01

Recent studies conducted in the Bonanza Test Site, Colorado, area indicated that: (1) more geologic structural information is available from remote sensing data than from conventional techniques; (2) greater accuracy results from using remote sensing data; (3) all major structural features were detected; (4) of all structural interpretations, about 75% were correct; and (5) interpretation of remote sensing data will not supplant field work, but it enables field work to be done much more efficiently.

Evaluation of geophysical techniques for the detection of paleochannels in the Oakland area of eastern Nebraska as part of the Eastern Nebraska Water Resource Assessment

USGS Publications Warehouse

Abraham, Jared D.; Bedrosian, Paul A.; Asch, Theodore H.; Ball, Lyndsay B.; Cannia, James C.; Phillips, Jeffery D.; Lackey, Susan

2012-01-01

Surface audio-magnetotelluric and time-domain electromagnetic methods achieved sufficient depth of penetration and indicated that the paleochannel was much more complex than the original geological model. Simulated and observed gravity anomalies indicate that imaging sand and gravel aquifers near Oakland, Nebraska, would be difficult due to the complex basement density contrasts. Interpretation of the magnetic data indicates no magnetic sources from geologic units above the bedrock surface. Based upon the analysis and interpretation of the four methods evaluated, we suggest a large-scale survey using a high-powered time-domain airborne system. This is the most efficient and cost-effective path forward for the Eastern Nebraska Water Assessment group to map paleochannels that lie beneath thick clay-rich glacial tills.

Buried Seed Banks as Indicators of Seed Output along an Altitudinal Gradient.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thompson, K.

1985-01-01

Study of buried seed banks (viable seeds deposited in the soil near parent plants) provides a relatively easy way of determining cumulative effects on seed production and species' altitudinal limits. Sites, methods, validity, interpretation, problems of collection on a mountain, and germination techniques are discussed. (Author/DH)

A study of the microstructure and optical properties of thin lead-dielectric cermet films. Ph.D. Thesis - Va. Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Owen, R. B.

1972-01-01

A transmission electron microscopy study involving direct and replicating techniques is directed to a definition of the microstructure of radio frequency-sputtered, thin lead-dielectric cermet films. Once defined, this microstructure is used to obtain theoretical film refractive indices. The Maxwell Garnett theory provides a basis for the theoretical results. Measurements of film transmission and reflectivity are used to obtain rough experimental values for film refractive indices by the Tekucheva method. More exact values are obtained via ellipsometry. The rough Tekucheva values are used to determine the range over which computer calculations interpreting the ellipsometric results must be made. This technique yields accurate values for the film refractive indices.

Mapping Planetary Volcanic Deposits: Identifying Vents and Distinguishing between Effects of Eruption Conditions and Local Storage and Release on Flow Field Morphology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bleacher, J. E.; Eppler, D. B.; Skinner, J. A.; Evans, C. A.; Feng, W.; Gruener, J. E.; Hurwitz, D. M.; Whitson, P.; Janoiko, B.

2014-01-01

Terrestrial geologic mapping techniques are regularly used for "photogeologic" mapping of other planets, but these approaches are complicated by the diverse type, areal coverage, and spatial resolution of available data sets. When available, spatially-limited in-situ human and/or robotic surface observations can sometimes introduce a level of detail that is difficult to integrate with regional or global interpretations. To assess best practices for utilizing observations acquired from orbit and on the surface, our team conducted a comparative study of geologic mapping and interpretation techniques. We compared maps generated for the same area in the San Francisco Volcanic Field (SFVF) in northern Arizona using 1) data collected for reconnaissance before and during the 2010 Desert Research And Technology Studies campaign, and 2) during a traditional, terrestrial field geology study. The operations, related results, and direct mapping comparisons are discussed in companion LPSC abstracts. Here we present new geologic interpretations for a volcanic cone and related lava flows as derived from all approaches involved in this study. Mapping results indicate a need for caution when interpreting past eruption conditions on other planetary surfaces from orbital data alone.

Mapping Planetary Volcanic Deposits: Identifying Vents and Distingushing between Effects of Eruption Conditions and Local Lava Storage and Release on Flow Field Morphology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bleacher, J. E.; Eppler, D. B.; Skinner, J. A.; Evans, C. A.; Feng, W.; Gruener, J. E.; Hurwitz, D. M.; Whitson, P.; Janoiko, B.

2014-01-01

Terrestrial geologic mapping techniques are regularly used for "photogeologic" mapping of other planets, but these approaches are complicated by the diverse type, areal coverage, and spatial resolution of available data sets. When available, spatially-limited in-situ human and/or robotic surface observations can sometimes introduce a level of detail that is difficult to integrate with regional or global interpretations. To assess best practices for utilizing observations acquired from orbit and on the surface, our team conducted a comparative study of geologic mapping and interpretation techniques. We compared maps generated for the same area in the San Francisco Volcanic Field (SFVF) in northern Arizona using 1) data collected for reconnaissance before and during the 2010 Desert Research And Technology Studies campaign, and 2) during a traditional, terrestrial field geology study. The operations, related results, and direct mapping comparisons are discussed in companion LPSC abstracts [1-3]. Here we present new geologic interpretations for a volcanic cone and related lava flows as derived from all approaches involved in this study. Mapping results indicate a need for caution when interpreting past eruption conditions on other planetary surfaces from orbital data alone.

Vapor-screen flow-visualization experiments in the NASA Langley 0.3-m transonic cryogenic tunnel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Selby, G. V.

1986-01-01

The vortical flow on the leeward side of a delta-wing model has been visualized at several different tunnel conditions in the NASA Langley 0.3-Meter Transonic Cryogenic Tunnel using a vapor-screen flow-visualization technique. Vapor-screen photographs of the subject flow field are presented and interpreted relative to phenomenological implications. Results indicate that the use of nitrogen fog in conjunction with the vapor-screen technique is feasibile.

Investigations of remote sensing techniques for early detection of Dutch elm disease

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hammerschlag, R. S.; Sopstyle, W. J.

1975-01-01

Several forms of aerial photography were pursued in quest of a technique which could provide early detection of Dutch elm disease. The two most promising techniques tested were multispectral photography with object enhancement and biband ratioing coupled with scanning microdensitometry. For practical purposes the multispectral system has the advantage of providing a readily interpretable image in a relatively short time. Laboratory studies indicated that less emphasis should be placed on the use of a red filter or the near infrared beyond 750 mm for early detection of stress within a single plant species. Color infrared film would be optimal when used for a long term detection of loss of plant vigor which results in a physical change in a plant canopy, but should find minimal practicality for early detection of specific sources of plant stress such as Dutch elm disease. Considerable discretion should be used when interpreting imagery on copy film because of loss of resolution and color definition.

Eddy Current, Magnetic Particle and Hardness Testing, Aviation Quality Control (Advanced): 9227.04.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dade County Public Schools, Miami, FL.

This unit of instruction includes the principles of eddy current, magnetic particle and hardness testing; standards used for analyzing test results; techniques of operating equipment; interpretation of indications; advantages and limitations of these methods of testing; care and calibration of equipment; and safety and work precautions. Motion…

Effects of Interpretation as a Counseling Technique

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Helner, Philip A.; Jessell, John C.

1974-01-01

This research was an inquiry into the effects of interpretation in counseling. The feelings of subjects toward interpretation were compared with their feelings toward the techniques of reflection, advice giving, and probing. The implications of the use of interpretation in counseling are discussed. (Author)

Indications and interpretation of esophageal function testing.

PubMed

Gyawali, C Prakash; de Bortoli, Nicola; Clarke, John; Marinelli, Carla; Tolone, Salvatore; Roman, Sabine; Savarino, Edoardo

2018-05-12

Esophageal symptoms are common, and can arise from mucosal, motor, functional, and neoplastic processes, among others. Judicious use of diagnostic testing can help define the etiology of symptoms and can direct management. Endoscopy, esophageal high-resolution manometry (HRM), ambulatory pH or pH-impedance manometry, and barium radiography are commonly used for esophageal function testing; functional lumen imaging probe is an emerging option. Recent consensus guidelines have provided direction in using test findings toward defining mechanisms of esophageal symptoms. The Chicago Classification describes hierarchical steps in diagnosing esophageal motility disorders. The Lyon Consensus characterizes conclusive evidence on esophageal testing for a diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and establishes a motor classification of GERD. Taking these recent advances into consideration, our discussion focuses primarily on the indications, technique, equipment, and interpretation of esophageal HRM and ambulatory reflux monitoring in the evaluation of esophageal symptoms, and describes indications for alternative esophageal tests. © 2018 New York Academy of Sciences.

The Colour Test for drug susceptibility testing of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains.

PubMed

Toit, K; Mitchell, S; Balabanova, Y; Evans, C A; Kummik, T; Nikolayevskyy, V; Drobniewski, F

2012-08-01

Tartu, Estonia. To assess the performance and feasibility of the introduction of the thin-layer agar MDR/XDR-TB Colour Test (Colour Test) as a non-commercial method of drug susceptibility testing (DST). The Colour Test combines the thin-layer agar technique with a simple colour-coded quadrant format, selective medium to reduce contamination and colorimetric indication of bacterial growth to simplify interpretation. DST patterns for isoniazid (INH), rifampicin (RMP) and ciprofloxacin (CFX) were determined using the Colour Test for 201 archived Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates. Susceptibilities were compared to blinded DST results obtained routinely using the BACTEC™ Mycobacteria Growth Indicator Tube™ (MGIT) 960 to assess performance characteristics. In all, 98% of the isolates produced interpretable results. The average time to positivity was 13 days, and all results were interpretable. The Colour Test detected drug resistance with 98% sensitivity for INH, RMP and CFX and 99% for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis. Specificities were respectively 100% (95%CI 82-100), 88% (95%CI 69-97) and 91% (95%CI 83-96) and 90% (95%CI 74-98). Agreement between the Colour Test and BACTEC MGIT 960 were respectively 98%, 96%, 94% and 97%. The Colour Test could be an economical, accurate and simple technique for testing tuberculosis strains for drug resistance. As it requires little specialist equipment, it may be particularly useful in resource-constrained settings with growing drug resistance rates.

What we need to know when performing and interpreting US elastography

PubMed Central

Park, So Hyun; Kim, So Yeon; Suh, Chong Hyun; Lee, Seung Soo; Kim, Kyoung Won; Lee, So Jung; Lee, Moon-Gyu

2016-01-01

According to the increasing need for accurate staging of hepatic fibrosis, the ultrasound (US) elastography techniques have evolved significantly over the past two decades. Currently, US elastography is increasingly used in clinical practice. Previously published studies have demonstrated the excellent diagnostic performance of US elastography for the detection and staging of liver fibrosis. Although US elastography may seem easy to perform and interpret, there are many technical and clinical factors which can affect the results of US elastography. Therefore, clinicians who are involved with US elastography should be aware of these factors. The purpose of this article is to present a brief overview of US techniques with the relevant technology, the clinical indications, diagnostic performance, and technical and biological factors which should be considered in order to avoid misinterpretation of US elastography results. PMID:27729637

Integrated geophysical investigations in a fault zone located on southwestern part of İzmir city, Western Anatolia, Turkey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drahor, Mahmut G.; Berge, Meriç A.

2017-01-01

Integrated geophysical investigations consisting of joint application of various geophysical techniques have become a major tool of active tectonic investigations. The choice of integrated techniques depends on geological features, tectonic and fault characteristics of the study area, required resolution and penetration depth of used techniques and also financial supports. Therefore, fault geometry and offsets, sediment thickness and properties, features of folded strata and tectonic characteristics of near-surface sections of the subsurface could be thoroughly determined using integrated geophysical approaches. Although Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Seismic Refraction Tomography (SRT) methods are commonly used in active tectonic investigations, other geophysical techniques will also contribute in obtaining of different properties in the complex geological environments of tectonically active sites. In this study, six different geophysical methods used to define faulting locations and characterizations around the study area. These are GPR, ERT, SRT, Very Low Frequency electromagnetic (VLF), magnetics and self-potential (SP). Overall integrated geophysical approaches used in this study gave us commonly important results about the near surface geological properties and faulting characteristics in the investigation area. After integrated interpretations of geophysical surveys, we determined an optimal trench location for paleoseismological studies. The main geological properties associated with faulting process obtained after trenching studies. In addition, geophysical results pointed out some indications concerning the active faulting mechanism in the area investigated. Consequently, the trenching studies indicate that the integrated approach of geophysical techniques applied on the fault problem reveals very useful and interpretative results in description of various properties of faulting zone in the investigation site.

A Different Approach to the Scientific Research Methods Course: Effects of a Small-Scale Research Project on Pre-Service Teachers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bastürk, Savas

2017-01-01

Selecting and applying appropriate research techniques, analysing data using information and communication technologies, transferring the obtained results of the analysis into tables and interpreting them are the performance indicators evaluated by the Ministry of National Education under teacher competencies. At the beginning of the courses that…

Interpretation of the Lempel-Ziv complexity measure in the context of biomedical signal analysis.

PubMed

Aboy, Mateo; Hornero, Roberto; Abásolo, Daniel; Alvarez, Daniel

2006-11-01

Lempel-Ziv complexity (LZ) and derived LZ algorithms have been extensively used to solve information theoretic problems such as coding and lossless data compression. In recent years, LZ has been widely used in biomedical applications to estimate the complexity of discrete-time signals. Despite its popularity as a complexity measure for biosignal analysis, the question of LZ interpretability and its relationship to other signal parameters and to other metrics has not been previously addressed. We have carried out an investigation aimed at gaining a better understanding of the LZ complexity itself, especially regarding its interpretability as a biomedical signal analysis technique. Our results indicate that LZ is particularly useful as a scalar metric to estimate the bandwidth of random processes and the harmonic variability in quasi-periodic signals.

Geologic interpretation of Seasat SAR imagery near the Rio Lacantum, Mexico

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rebillard, PH.; Dixon, T.

1984-01-01

A mosaic of the Seasat Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) optically processed images over Central America is presented. A SAR image of the Rio Lacantum area (southeastern Mexico) has been digitally processed and its interpretation is presented. The region is characterized by low relief and a dense vegetation canopy. Surface is believed to be indicative of subsurface structural features. The Seasat-SAR system had a steep imaging geometry (incidence angle 23 + or - 3 deg off-nadir) which is favorable for detection of subtle topographic variations. Subtle textural features in the image corresponding to surface topography were enhanced by image processing techniques. A structural and lithologic interpretation of the processed images is presented. Lineaments oriented NE-SW dominate and intersect broad folds trending NW-SE. Distinctive karst topography characterizes one high relief area

S190 interpretation techniques development and application to New York State water resources. [Lake Ontario and Conesus Lake

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Piech, K. R. (Principal Investigator); Schott, J. R.; Stewart, K. M.

1975-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. The program has demonstrated that Skylab imagery can be utilized to regularly monitor eutrophication indices of lakes, such as chlorophyll concentration and photic zone depth. The relationship between the blue to green reflectance ratio and chlorophyll concentration was shown, along with changes in lake properties caused by chlorophyll, lignin, and humic acid using reflectance ratios and changes. A data processing technique was developed for detecting atmospheric fluctuations occurring over a large lake.

Hydrogeologic Unit Flow Characterization Using Transition Probability Geostatistics

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

Jones, N L; Walker, J R; Carle, S F

2003-11-21

This paper describes a technique for applying the transition probability geostatistics method for stochastic simulation to a MODFLOW model. Transition probability geostatistics has several advantages over traditional indicator kriging methods including a simpler and more intuitive framework for interpreting geologic relationships and the ability to simulate juxtapositional tendencies such as fining upwards sequences. The indicator arrays generated by the transition probability simulation are converted to layer elevation and thickness arrays for use with the new Hydrogeologic Unit Flow (HUF) package in MODFLOW 2000. This makes it possible to preserve complex heterogeneity while using reasonably sized grids. An application of themore » technique involving probabilistic capture zone delineation for the Aberjona Aquifer in Woburn, Ma. is included.« less

Revealing the ecological content of long-duration audio-recordings of the environment through clustering and visualisation.

PubMed

Phillips, Yvonne F; Towsey, Michael; Roe, Paul

2018-01-01

Audio recordings of the environment are an increasingly important technique to monitor biodiversity and ecosystem function. While the acquisition of long-duration recordings is becoming easier and cheaper, the analysis and interpretation of that audio remains a significant research area. The issue addressed in this paper is the automated reduction of environmental audio data to facilitate ecological investigations. We describe a method that first reduces environmental audio to vectors of acoustic indices, which are then clustered. This can reduce the audio data by six to eight orders of magnitude yet retain useful ecological information. We describe techniques to visualise sequences of cluster occurrence (using for example, diel plots, rose plots) that assist interpretation of environmental audio. Colour coding acoustic clusters allows months and years of audio data to be visualised in a single image. These techniques are useful in identifying and indexing the contents of long-duration audio recordings. They could also play an important role in monitoring long-term changes in species abundance brought about by habitat degradation and/or restoration.

Revealing the ecological content of long-duration audio-recordings of the environment through clustering and visualisation

PubMed Central

Towsey, Michael; Roe, Paul

2018-01-01

Audio recordings of the environment are an increasingly important technique to monitor biodiversity and ecosystem function. While the acquisition of long-duration recordings is becoming easier and cheaper, the analysis and interpretation of that audio remains a significant research area. The issue addressed in this paper is the automated reduction of environmental audio data to facilitate ecological investigations. We describe a method that first reduces environmental audio to vectors of acoustic indices, which are then clustered. This can reduce the audio data by six to eight orders of magnitude yet retain useful ecological information. We describe techniques to visualise sequences of cluster occurrence (using for example, diel plots, rose plots) that assist interpretation of environmental audio. Colour coding acoustic clusters allows months and years of audio data to be visualised in a single image. These techniques are useful in identifying and indexing the contents of long-duration audio recordings. They could also play an important role in monitoring long-term changes in species abundance brought about by habitat degradation and/or restoration. PMID:29494629

Elucidating early CT after pancreatico-duodenectomy: a primer for radiologists.

PubMed

Tonolini, Massimo; Ierardi, Anna Maria; Carrafiello, Gianpaolo

2018-04-13

Pancreatico-duodenectomy (PD) represents the standard surgical treatment for resectable malignancies of the pancreatic head, distal common bile duct, periampullary region and duodenum, and is also performed to manage selected benign tumours and refractory chronic pancreatitis. Despite improved surgical techniques and acceptable mortality, PD remains a technically demanding, high-risk operation burdened with high morbidity (complication rates 40-50% of patients). Multidetector computed tomography (CT) represents the mainstay modality to rapidly investigate the postoperative abdomen, and to provide a consistent basis for an appropriate choice between conservative, interventional or surgical treatment. However, radiologists require familiarity with the surgically altered anatomy, awareness of expected imaging appearances and possible complications to correctly interpret early post-PD CT studies. This paper provides an overview of surgical indications and techniques, discusses risk factors and clinical manifestations of the usual postsurgical complications, and suggests appropriate techniques and indications for early postoperative CT imaging. Afterwards, the usual, normal early post-PD CT findings are presented, including transient fluid, pneumobilia, delayed gastric emptying, identification of pancreatic gland remnant and of surgical anastomoses. Finally, several imaging examples review the most common and some unusual complications such as pancreatic fistula, bile leaks, abscesses, intraluminal and extraluminal haemorrhage, and acute pancreatitis. • Pancreatico-duodenectomy (PD) is a technically demanding surgery burdened with high morbidity (40-50%). • Multidetector CT is the mainstay technique to investigate suspected complications following PD. • Interpreting post-PD CT requires knowledge of surgically altered anatomy and expected findings. • CT showing collection at surgical site supports clinico-biological diagnosis of pancreatic fistula. • Other complications include biliary leaks, haemorrhage, abscesses and venous thrombosis.

Quality assessment of malaria laboratory diagnosis in South Africa.

PubMed

Dini, Leigh; Frean, John

2003-01-01

To assess the quality of malaria diagnosis in 115 South African laboratories participating in the National Health Laboratory Service Parasitology External Quality Assessment Programme we reviewed the results from 7 surveys from January 2000 to August 2002. The mean percentage incorrect result rate was 13.8% (95% CI 11.3-16.9%), which is alarmingly high, with about 1 in 7 blood films being incorrectly interpreted. Most participants with incorrect blood film interpretations had acceptable Giemsa staining quality, indicating that there is less of a problem with staining technique than with blood film interpretation. Laboratories in provinces in which malaria is endemic did not necessarily perform better than those in non-endemic areas. The results clearly suggest that malaria laboratory diagnosis throughout South Africa needs strengthening by improving laboratory standardization and auditing, training, quality assurance and referral resources.

Small renal mass biopsy--how, what and when: report from an international consensus panel.

PubMed

Tsivian, Matvey; Rampersaud, Edward N; del Pilar Laguna Pes, Maria; Joniau, Steven; Leveillee, Raymond J; Shingleton, William B; Aron, Monish; Kim, Charles Y; DeMarzo, Angelo M; Desai, Mihir M; Meler, James D; Donovan, James F; Klingler, Hans Christoph; Sopko, David R; Madden, John F; Marberger, Michael; Ferrandino, Michael N; Polascik, Thomas J

2014-06-01

To discuss the use of renal mass biopsy (RMB) for small renal masses (SRMs), formulate technical aspects, outline potential pitfalls and provide recommendations for the practicing clinician. The meeting was conducted as an informal consensus process and no scoring system was used to measure the levels of agreement on the different topics. A moderated general discussion was used as the basis for consensus and arising issues were resolved at this point. A consensus was established and lack of agreement to topics or specific items was noted at this point. Recommended biopsy technique: at least two cores, sampling different tumour regions with ultrasonography being the preferred method of image guidance. Pathological interpretation: 'non-diagnostic samples' should refer to insufficient material, inconclusive and normal renal parenchyma. For non-diagnostic samples, a repeat biopsy is recommended. Fine-needle aspiration may provide additional information but cannot substitute for core biopsy. Indications for RMB: biopsy is recommended in most cases except in patients with imaging or clinical characteristics indicative of pathology (syndromes, imaging characteristics) and cases whereby conservative management is not contemplated. RMB is recommended for active surveillance but not for watchful-waiting candidates. We report the results of an international consensus meeting on the use of RMB for SRMs, defining the technique, pathological interpretation and indications. © 2013 The Authors. BJU International © 2013 BJU International.

Educational principles and techniques for interpreters.

Treesearch

F. David Boulanger; John P. Smith

1973-01-01

Interpretation is in large part education, since it attempts to convey information, concepts, and principles while creating attitude changes and such emotional states as wonder, delight, and appreciation. Although interpreters might profit greatly by formal training in the principles and techniques of teaching, many have not had such training. Some means of making the...

Interpretation methodology and analysis of in-flight lightning data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rudolph, T.; Perala, R. A.

1982-01-01

A methodology is presented whereby electromagnetic measurements of inflight lightning stroke data can be understood and extended to other aircraft. Recent measurements made on the NASA F106B aircraft indicate that sophisticated numerical techniques and new developments in corona modeling are required to fully understand the data. Thus the problem is nontrivial and successful interpretation can lead to a significant understanding of the lightning/aircraft interaction event. This is of particular importance because of the problem of lightning induced transient upset of new technology low level microcircuitry which is being used in increasing quantities in modern and future avionics. Inflight lightning data is analyzed and lightning environments incident upon the F106B are determined.

EANM-EORTC general recommendations for sentinel node diagnostics in melanoma.

PubMed

Chakera, Annette H; Hesse, Birger; Burak, Zeynep; Ballinger, James R; Britten, Allan; Caracò, Corrado; Cochran, Alistair J; Cook, Martin G; Drzewiecki, Krzysztof T; Essner, Richard; Even-Sapir, Einat; Eggermont, Alexander M M; Stopar, Tanja Gmeiner; Ingvar, Christian; Mihm, Martin C; McCarthy, Stanley W; Mozzillo, Nicola; Nieweg, Omgo E; Scolyer, Richard A; Starz, Hans; Thompson, John F; Trifirò, Giuseppe; Viale, Giuseppe; Vidal-Sicart, Sergi; Uren, Roger; Waddington, Wendy; Chiti, Arturo; Spatz, Alain; Testori, Alessandro

2009-10-01

The accurate diagnosis of a sentinel node in melanoma includes a sequence of procedures from different medical specialities (nuclear medicine, surgery, oncology, and pathology). The items covered are presented in 11 sections and a reference list: (1) definition of a sentinel node, (2) clinical indications, (3) radiopharmaceuticals and activity injected, (4) dosimetry, (5) injection technique, (6) image acquisition and interpretation, (7) report and display, (8) use of dye, (9) gamma probe detection, (10) surgical techniques in sentinel node biopsy, and (11) pathological evaluation of melanoma-draining sentinel lymph nodes. If specific recommendations given cannot be based on evidence from original, scientific studies, referral is given to "general consensus" and similar expressions. The recommendations are designed to assist in the practice of referral to, performance, interpretation and reporting of all steps of the sentinel node procedure in the hope of setting state-of-the-art standards for good-quality evaluation of possible spread to the lymphatic system in intermediate-to-high risk melanoma without clinical signs of dissemination.

Interpreting Medical Information Using Machine Learning and Individual Conditional Expectation.

PubMed

Nohara, Yasunobu; Wakata, Yoshifumi; Nakashima, Naoki

2015-01-01

Recently, machine-learning techniques have spread many fields. However, machine-learning is still not popular in medical research field due to difficulty of interpreting. In this paper, we introduce a method of interpreting medical information using machine learning technique. The method gave new explanation of partial dependence plot and individual conditional expectation plot from medical research field.

Comparative evaluation of differential laser-induced perturbation spectroscopy as a technique to discriminate emerging skin pathology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kozikowski, Raymond T.; Smith, Sarah E.; Lee, Jennifer A.; Castleman, William L.; Sorg, Brian S.; Hahn, David W.

2012-06-01

Fluorescence spectroscopy has been widely investigated as a technique for identifying pathological tissue; however, unrelated subject-to-subject variations in spectra complicate data analysis and interpretation. We describe and evaluate a new biosensing technique, differential laser-induced perturbation spectroscopy (DLIPS), based on deep ultraviolet (UV) photochemical perturbation in combination with difference spectroscopy. This technique combines sequential fluorescence probing (pre- and post-perturbation) with sub-ablative UV perturbation and difference spectroscopy to provide a new spectral dimension, facilitating two improvements over fluorescence spectroscopy. First, the differential technique eliminates significant variations in absolute fluorescence response within subject populations. Second, UV perturbations alter the extracellular matrix (ECM), directly coupling the DLIPS response to the biological structure. Improved biosensing with DLIPS is demonstrated in vivo in a murine model of chemically induced skin lesion development. Component loading analysis of the data indicates that the DLIPS technique couples to structural proteins in the ECM. Analysis of variance shows that DLIPS has a significant response to emerging pathology as opposed to other population differences. An optimal likelihood ratio classifier for the DLIPS dataset shows that this technique holds promise for improved diagnosis of epithelial pathology. Results further indicate that DLIPS may improve diagnosis of tissue by augmenting fluorescence spectra (i.e. orthogonal sensing).

Utilization of Telehealth Technology to Develop and Implement a Comprehensive Management Initiative for Chronic Diseases

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-10-21

involving oral or injectable regimens for type 2 diabetes, alone or in various combinations . The program indicates which dose or doses of medications...educational access. Virtual diabetes education techniques that combine best educational practices with telehealth technology offer a promising solution to...patterns over time, so we combined these two groups to simplify interpretation of the results. The analyses tested for group differences in

Spectral Survey of Irrigated Region Corps and Soils

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1971-01-01

The applications of remote sensing techniques to spectral surveys of irrigation, crops, and soils are reported. Topics discussed include: (1) canopy temperature as an indication of plant water stress, (2) temperature of soils and of crop canopies differing in water conditions, (3) ERTS project, (4) spectrum matching and pattern recognition, (5) photographic procedures and interpretation, (6) interaction of light with plants, and (7) plant physiological and histological factors.

Blood volume analysis: a new technique and new clinical interest reinvigorate a classic study.

PubMed

Manzone, Timothy A; Dam, Hung Q; Soltis, Daniel; Sagar, Vidya V

2007-06-01

Blood volume studies using the indicator dilution technique and radioactive tracers have been performed in nuclear medicine departments for over 50 y. A nuclear medicine study is the gold standard for blood volume measurement, but the classic dual-isotope blood volume study is time-consuming and can be prone to technical errors. Moreover, a lack of normal values and a rubric for interpretation made volume status measurement of limited interest to most clinicians other than some hematologists. A new semiautomated system for blood volume analysis is now available and provides highly accurate results for blood volume analysis within only 90 min. The availability of rapid, accurate blood volume analysis has brought about a surge of clinical interest in using blood volume data for clinical management. Blood volume analysis, long a low-volume nuclear medicine study all but abandoned in some laboratories, is poised to enter the clinical mainstream. This article will first present the fundamental principles of fluid balance and the clinical means of volume status assessment. We will then review the indicator dilution technique and how it is used in nuclear medicine blood volume studies. We will present an overview of the new semiautomated blood volume analysis technique, showing how the study is done, how it works, what results are provided, and how those results are interpreted. Finally, we will look at some of the emerging areas in which data from blood volume analysis can improve patient care. The reader will gain an understanding of the principles underlying blood volume assessment, know how current nuclear medicine blood volume analysis studies are performed, and appreciate their potential clinical impact.

Student reasoning about graphs in different contexts

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanjek, Lana; Susac, Ana; Planinic, Maja; Andrasevic, Aneta; Milin-Sipus, Zeljka

2016-06-01

This study investigates university students' graph interpretation strategies and difficulties in mathematics, physics (kinematics), and contexts other than physics. Eight sets of parallel (isomorphic) mathematics, physics, and other context questions about graphs, which were developed by us, were administered to 385 first-year students at the Faculty of Science, University of Zagreb. Students were asked to provide explanations and/or mathematical procedures with their answers. Students' main strategies and difficulties identified through the analysis of those explanations and procedures are described. Student strategies of graph interpretation were found to be largely context dependent and domain specific. A small fraction of students have used the same strategy in all three domains (mathematics, physics, and other contexts) on most sets of parallel questions. Some students have shown indications of transfer of knowledge in the sense that they used techniques and strategies developed in physics for solving (or attempting to solve) other context problems. In physics, the preferred strategy was the use of formulas, which sometimes seemed to block the use of other, more productive strategies which students displayed in other domains. Students' answers indicated the presence of slope-height confusion and interval-point confusion in all three domains. Students generally better interpreted graph slope than the area under a graph, although the concept of slope still seemed to be quite vague for many. The interpretation of the concept of area under a graph needs more attention in both physics and mathematics teaching.

Remote Sensing Applications with High Reliability in Changjiang Water Resource Management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ma, L.; Gao, S.; Yang, A.

2018-04-01

Remote sensing technology has been widely used in many fields. But most of the applications cannot get the information with high reliability and high accuracy in large scale, especially for the applications using automatic interpretation methods. We have designed an application-oriented technology system (PIR) composed of a series of accurate interpretation techniques,which can get over 85 % correctness in Water Resource Management from the view of photogrammetry and expert knowledge. The techniques compose of the spatial positioning techniques from the view of photogrammetry, the feature interpretation techniques from the view of expert knowledge, and the rationality analysis techniques from the view of data mining. Each interpreted polygon is accurate enough to be applied to the accuracy sensitive projects, such as the Three Gorge Project and the South - to - North Water Diversion Project. In this paper, we present several remote sensing applications with high reliability in Changjiang Water Resource Management,including water pollution investigation, illegal construction inspection, and water conservation monitoring, etc.

Distributed acoustic sensing technique and its field trial in SAGD well

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Li; He, Xiangge; Pan, Yong; Liu, Fei; Yi, Duo; Hu, Chengjun; Zhang, Min; Gu, Lijuan

2017-10-01

Steam assisted gravity drainage (SAGD) is a very promising way for the development of heavy oil, extra heavy oil and tight oil reservoirs. Proper monitoring of the SAGD operations is essential to avoid operational issues and improve efficiency. Among all the monitoring techniques, micro-seismic monitoring and related interpretation method can give useful information about the steam chamber development and has been extensively studied. Distributed acoustic sensor (DAS) based on Rayleigh backscattering is a newly developed technique that can measure acoustic signal at all points along the sensing fiber. In this paper, we demonstrate a DAS system based on dual-pulse heterodyne demodulation technique and did field trial in SAGD well located in Xinjiang Oilfield, China. The field trail results validated the performance of the DAS system and indicated its applicability in steam-chamber monitoring and hydraulic monitoring.

Hydrogeologic unit flow characterization using transition probability geostatistics.

PubMed

Jones, Norman L; Walker, Justin R; Carle, Steven F

2005-01-01

This paper describes a technique for applying the transition probability geostatistics method for stochastic simulation to a MODFLOW model. Transition probability geostatistics has some advantages over traditional indicator kriging methods including a simpler and more intuitive framework for interpreting geologic relationships and the ability to simulate juxtapositional tendencies such as fining upward sequences. The indicator arrays generated by the transition probability simulation are converted to layer elevation and thickness arrays for use with the new Hydrogeologic Unit Flow package in MODFLOW 2000. This makes it possible to preserve complex heterogeneity while using reasonably sized grids and/or grids with nonuniform cell thicknesses.

Decision Tree Approach for Soil Liquefaction Assessment

PubMed Central

Gandomi, Amir H.; Fridline, Mark M.; Roke, David A.

2013-01-01

In the current study, the performances of some decision tree (DT) techniques are evaluated for postearthquake soil liquefaction assessment. A database containing 620 records of seismic parameters and soil properties is used in this study. Three decision tree techniques are used here in two different ways, considering statistical and engineering points of view, to develop decision rules. The DT results are compared to the logistic regression (LR) model. The results of this study indicate that the DTs not only successfully predict liquefaction but they can also outperform the LR model. The best DT models are interpreted and evaluated based on an engineering point of view. PMID:24489498

Decision tree approach for soil liquefaction assessment.

PubMed

Gandomi, Amir H; Fridline, Mark M; Roke, David A

2013-01-01

In the current study, the performances of some decision tree (DT) techniques are evaluated for postearthquake soil liquefaction assessment. A database containing 620 records of seismic parameters and soil properties is used in this study. Three decision tree techniques are used here in two different ways, considering statistical and engineering points of view, to develop decision rules. The DT results are compared to the logistic regression (LR) model. The results of this study indicate that the DTs not only successfully predict liquefaction but they can also outperform the LR model. The best DT models are interpreted and evaluated based on an engineering point of view.

The use of Electronic Speckle Pattern Interferometry (ESPI) in the crack propagation analysis of epoxy resins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herbert, D. P.; Al-Hassani, A. H. M.; Richardson, M. O. W.

The ESPI (electronic speckle pattern interferometry) technique at high magnification levels is demonstrated to be of considerable value in interpreting the fracture behaviour of epoxy resins. The fracture toughness of powder coating system at different thicknesses has been measured using a TDCB (tapered double cantilever beam) technique and the deformation zone at the tip of the moving crack monitored. Initial indications are that a mechanistic changeover occurs at a critical bond (coating) thickness and that this is synonymous with the occurence of a fracture toughness maximum, which in turn is associated with a deformation zone of specific diameter.

Development and Current Status of Skull-Image Superimposition - Methodology and Instrumentation.

PubMed

Lan, Y

1992-12-01

This article presents a review of the literature and an evaluation on the development and application of skull-image superimposition technology - both instrumentation and methodology - contributed by a number of scholars since 1935. Along with a comparison of the methodologies involved in the two superimposition techniques - photographic and video - the author characterized the techniques in action and the recent advances in computer image superimposition processing technology. The major disadvantage of conventional approaches is its relying on subjective interpretation. Through painstaking comparison and analysis, computer image processing technology can make more conclusive identifications by direct testing and evaluating the various programmed indices. Copyright © 1992 Central Police University.

Late diagenetic indicators of buried oil and gas: II, Direct detection experiment at Cement and Garza oil fields, Oklahoma and Texas, using enhanced LANDSAT I and II images

USGS Publications Warehouse

Donovan, Terrence J.; Termain, Patricia A.; Henry, Mitchell E.

1979-01-01

The Cement oil field, Oklahoma, was a test site for an experiment designed to evaluate LANDSAT's capability to detect an alteration zone in surface rocks caused by hydrocarbon microseepage. Loss of iron and impregnation of sandstone by carbonate cements and replacement of gypsum by calcite are the major alteration phenomena at Cement. The bedrock alterations are partially masked by unaltered overlying beds, thick soils, and dense natural and cultivated vegetation. Interpreters biased by detailed ground truth were able to map the alteration zone subjectively using a magnified, filtered, and sinusoidally stretched LANDSAT composite image; other interpreters, unbiased by ground truth data, could not duplicate that interpretation. Similar techniques were applied at a secondary test site (Garza oil field, Texas), where similar alterations in surface rocks occur. Enhanced LANDSAT images resolved the alteration zone to a biased interpreter and some individual altered outcrops could be mapped using higher resolution SKYLAB color and conventional black and white aerial photographs suggesting repeat experiments with LANDSAT C and D.

Interdisciplinary application and interpretation of EREP data within the Susquehanna River Basin

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcmurtry, G. J.; Petersen, G. W. (Principal Investigator)

1975-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. It has become that lineaments seen on Skylab and ERTS images are not equally well defined, and that the clarity of definition of a particular lineament is recorded somewhat differently by different interpreters. In an effort to determine the extent of these variations, a semi-quantitative classification scheme was devised. In the field, along the crest of Bald Eagle Mountain in central Pennsylvania, statistical techniques borrowed from sedimentary petrography (point counting) were used to determine the existence and location of intensely fractured float rock. Verification of Skylab and ERTS detected lineaments on aerial photography at different scales indicated that the brecciated zones appear to occur at one margin of the 1 km zone of brecciation defined as a lineament. In the Lock Haven area, comparison of the film types from the SL4 S190A sensor revealed the black and white Pan X photography to be superior in quality for general interpretation to the black and white IR film. Also, the color positive film is better for interpretation than the color IR film.

The Use of Dreams in Psychotherapy

PubMed Central

Schredl, Michael; Bohusch, Claudia; Kahl, Johanna; Mader, Andrea; Somesan, Alexandra

2000-01-01

Since the publication of Sigmund Freud's The Interpretation of Dreams, dream interpretation has been a standard technique often used in psychotherapy. However, empirical studies about the frequency of working on dreams in therapy are lacking. The present study elicited, via a self-developed questionnaire, various aspects of work on dreams applied by psychotherapists in private practice. The findings indicate that dreams were often used in therapy, especially in psychoanalysis. In addition, a significant relationship was found between the frequency of the therapists' working on their own dreams and frequency of work on dreams in therapy. Because work on dreams was rated as beneficial for the clients, further studies investigating the effectiveness and the process of working on dreams will be of interest. PMID:10793127

Insolation Effects on Lunar Hydrogen: Observation from the LRO LEND and LOLA Instruments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McClanahan, T. P.; Mitrofanov, I. G.; Boynton, W. V.; Chin, G.; Droege, G.; Evans, L. G.; Garvin, J.; Harshman, K.; Livak, M. M.; Malakhov, A.;

Diachronic analysis of salt-affected areas using remote sensing techniques: the case study of Biskra area, Algeria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Afrasinei, Gabriela M.; Melis, Maria T.; Buttau, Cristina; Bradd, John M.; Arras, Claudio; Ghiglieri, Giorgio

2015-10-01

In the Wadi Biskra arid and semi-arid area, sustainable development is limited by land degradation, such as secondary salinization of soils. As an important high quality date production region of Algeria, it needs continuous monitoring of desertification indicators, since the bio-physical setting defines it as highly exposed to climate-related risks. For this particular study, for which little ground truth data was possible to acquire, we set up an assessment of appropriate methods for the identification and change detection of salt-affected areas, involving image interpretation and processing techniques employing Landsat imagery. After a first phase consisting of a visual interpretation study of the land cover types, two automated classification approaches were proposed and applied for this specific study: decision tree classification and principal components analysis (PCA) of Knepper ratios. Five of the indices employed in the Decision Tree construction were set up within the current study, among which we propose a salinity index (SMI) for the extraction of highly saline areas. The results of the 1984 to 2014 diachronic analysis of salt - affected areas variation were supported by the interpreted land cover map for accuracy estimation. Connecting the outputs with auxiliary bio-physical and socio-economic data, comprehensive results are discussed, which were indispensable for the understanding of land degradation dynamics and vulnerability to desertification. One aspect that emerged was the fact that the expansion of agricultural land in the last three decades may have led and continue to contribute to a secondary salinization of soils. This study is part of the WADIS-MAR Demonstration Project, funded by the European Commission through the Sustainable Water Integrated Management (SWIM) Program (www.wadismar.eu).

Production and Comprehension of Pantomimes Used to Depict Objects

PubMed Central

van Nispen, Karin; van de Sandt-Koenderman, W. Mieke. E.; Krahmer, Emiel

2017-01-01

Pantomime, gesture in absence of speech, has no conventional meaning. Nevertheless, individuals seem to be able to produce pantomimes and derive meaning from pantomimes. A number of studies has addressed the use of co-speech gesture, but little is known on pantomime. Therefore, the question of how people construct and understand pantomimes arises in gesture research. To determine how people use pantomimes, we asked participants to depict a set of objects using pantomimes only. We annotated what representation techniques people produced. Furthermore, using judgment tasks, we assessed the pantomimes' comprehensibility. Analyses showed that similar techniques were used to depict objects across individuals. Objects with a default depiction method were better comprehended than objects for which there was no such default. More specifically, tools and objects depicted using a handling technique were better understood. The open-answer experiment showed low interpretation accuracy. Conversely, the forced-choice experiment showed ceiling effects. These results suggest that across individuals, similar strategies are deployed to produce pantomime, with the handling technique as the apparent preference. This might indicate that the production of pantomimes is based on mental representations which are intrinsically similar. Furthermore, pantomime conveys semantically rich, but ambiguous, information, and its interpretation is much dependent on context. This pantomime database is available online: https://dataverse.nl/dataset.xhtml?persistentId=hdl:10411/QZHO6M. This can be used as a baseline with which we can compare clinical groups. PMID:28744232

Interpretational confounding is due to misspecification, not to type of indicator: comment on Howell, Breivik, and Wilcox (2007).

PubMed

Bollen, Kenneth A

2007-06-01

R. D. Howell, E. Breivik, and J. B. Wilcox (2007) have argued that causal (formative) indicators are inherently subject to interpretational confounding. That is, they have argued that using causal (formative) indicators leads the empirical meaning of a latent variable to be other than that assigned to it by a researcher. Their critique of causal (formative) indicators rests on several claims: (a) A latent variable exists apart from the model when there are effect (reflective) indicators but not when there are causal (formative) indicators, (b) causal (formative) indicators need not have the same consequences, (c) causal (formative) indicators are inherently subject to interpretational confounding, and (d) a researcher cannot detect interpretational confounding when using causal (formative) indicators. This article shows that each claim is false. Rather, interpretational confounding is more a problem of structural misspecification of a model combined with an underidentified model that leaves these misspecifications undetected. Interpretational confounding does not occur if the model is correctly specified whether a researcher has causal (formative) or effect (reflective) indicators. It is the validity of a model not the type of indicator that determines the potential for interpretational confounding. Copyright 2007 APA, all rights reserved.

Facilitating the exploitation of ERTS imagery using snow enhancement techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wobber, F. J. (Principal Investigator); Martin, K. R.; Amato, R. V.

1973-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. New fracture detail within New England test area has been interpreted from ERTS-1 images. Comparative analysis of snow-free imagery (1096-15065 and 1096-15072) has demonstrated that MSS bands 5 and 7 supply the greatest amount of geological fracture detail. Interpretation of the first snow-covered ERTS-1 images (1132-15074 and 1168-15065) in correlation with ground snow depth data indicates that a heavy blanket of snow (less than 9 inches) accentuates major structural features while a light dusting (greater than 1 inch) accentuates more subtle topographic expressions. Snow cover was found to accentuate drainage patterns which are indicative of lithological and/or structural variations. Snow cover provided added enhancement for viewing and detecting topographically expressed fractures and faults. A recent field investigation was conducted within the New England test area to field check lineaments observed from analysis of ERTS-1 imagery, collect snow depth readings, and obtain structural joint readings at key locations in the test area.

Critical thinking skills profile of senior high school students in Biology learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saputri, A. C.; Sajidan; Rinanto, Y.

2018-04-01

Critical thinking is an important and necessary skill to confront the challenges of the 21st century. Critical thinking skills accommodate activities that can improve high-order thinking skills. This study aims to determine senior high school students' critical thinking skills in Biology learning. This research is descriptive research using instruments developed based on the core aspects of critical thinking skills according to Facione which include interpretation, analysis, evaluation, explanation, conclusion, and self-regulation. The subjects in this study were 297 students in grade 12 of a senior high school in Surakarta selected through purposive sampling technique. The results of this study showed that the students' critical thinking skills on evaluation and self-regulation are in good criterion with 78% and 66% acquisition while 52% interpretation, 56% analysis, 52% conclusion and 42% explanation indicate sufficient criteria. The conclusion from this research is that critical thinking skill of the students still was in enough category, so that needed a way to enhance it on some indicators.

Remote sensing as a source of land cover information utilized in the universal soil loss equation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morris-Jones, D. R.; Morgan, K. M.; Kiefer, R. W.; Scarpace, F. L.

1979-01-01

In this study, methods for gathering the land use/land cover information required by the USLE were investigated with medium altitude, multi-date color and color infrared 70-mm positive transparencies using human and computer-based interpretation techniques. Successful results, which compare favorably with traditional field study methods, were obtained within the test site watershed with airphoto data sources and human airphoto interpretation techniques. Computer-based interpretation techniques were not capable of identifying soil conservation practices but were successful to varying degrees in gathering other types of desired land use/land cover information.

ERTS-1 image enhancement by optically combining density slices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tapper, G. O.; Pease, R. W.

1973-01-01

The technique of density slicing using a photographic film and its application to enhancement of ERTS-1 imagery has proved to be useful for mapping varigated areal phenomena and provides a useful supplement ot the I2S MiniAddcol viewing system. The intial experiments conducted with this film were encouraging, and indicated that this technique of density slicing using readily accessible darkroom facilities and simple darkroom procedures allows rapid, accurate, and facile interpretation of certain areal phenomena to be made from the imagery. The distribution of the tree yucca, Yucca brevifolia Jaegeriana, in the eastern Mojave Desert of Southern California and southern Nevada was used as an example to test the accuracy of the technique for mapping purposes. The distribution was mapped at a relatively high level of accuracy.

Improved Geologic Interpretation of Non-invasive Electrical Resistivity Imaging from In-situ Samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mucelli, A.; Aborn, L.; Jacob, R.; Malusis, M.; Evans, J.

2016-12-01

Non-invasive geophysical techniques are useful in characterizing the subsurface geology without disturbing the environment, however, the ability to interpret the subsurface is enhanced by invasive work. Since geologic materials have electrical resistivity values it allows for a geologic interpretation to be made based on variations of electrical resistivity measured by electrical resistivity imaging (ERI). This study focuses on the pre-characterization of the geologic subsurface from ERI collected adjacent to the Montandon Marsh, a wetland located near Lewisburg, PA within the West Branch of the Susquehanna River watershed. The previous invasive data, boreholes, indicate that the subsurface consists of limestone and shale bedrock overlain with sand and gravel deposits from glacial outwash and aeolian processes. The objective is to improve our understanding of the subsurface at this long-term hydrologic research site by using excavation results, specifically observed variations in geologic materials and electrical resistivity laboratory testing of subsurface samples. The pre-excavation ERI indicated that the shallow-most geologic material had a resistivity value of 100-500 ohm-m. In comparison, the laboratory testing indicated the shallow-most material had the same range of electrical resistivity values depending on saturation levels. The ERI also showed that there was an electrically conductive material, 7 to 70 ohm-m, that was interpreted to be clay and agreed with borehole data, however, the excavation revealed that at this depth range the geologic material varied from stratified clay to clay with cobbles to weathered residual clay. Excavation revealed that the subtle variations in the electrical conductive material corresponded well with the variations in the geologic material. We will use these results to reinterpret previously collected ERI data from the entire long-term research site.

A quantitative investigation of the fracture pump-in/flowback test

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

Plahn, S.V.; Nolte, K.G.; Thompson, L.G.

1997-02-01

Fracture-closure pressure is an important parameter for fracture treatment design and evaluation. The pump-in/flowback (PIFB) test is frequently used to estimate its magnitude. The test is attractive because bottomhole pressures (BHP`s) during flowback develop a distinct and repeatable signature. This is in contrast to the pump-in/shut-in test, where strong indications of fracture closure are rarely seen. Various techniques are used to extract closure pressure from the flowback-pressure response. Unfortunately, these techniques give different estimates for closure pressure, and their theoretical bases are not well established. The authors present results that place the PIFB test on a firmer foundation. A numericalmore » model is used to simulate the PIFB test and glean physical mechanisms contributing to the response. On the basis of their simulation results, they propose interpretation techniques that give better estimates of closure pressure than existing techniques.« less

Selecting reconnaissance strategies for floodplain surveys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sollers, S. C.; Rango, A.; Henninger, D. L.

1977-01-01

Multispectral aircraft and satellite data over the West Branch of the Susquehanna River were analyzed to evaluate potential contributions of remote sensing to flood-plain surveys. Multispectral digital classifications of land cover features indicative of floodplain areas were used by interpreters to locate various floodprone area boundaries. The digital approach permitted LANDSAT results to be displayed at 1:24,000 scale and aircraft results at even larger scales. Results indicate that remote sensing techniques can delineate floodprone areas more easily in agricultural and limited development areas as opposed to areas covered by a heavy forest canopy. At this time it appears that the remote sensing data would be best used as a form of preliminary planning information or as an internal check on previous or ongoing floodplain studies. In addition, the remote sensing techniques can assist in effectively monitoring floodplain activities after a community enters into the National Flood Insurance Program.

The ERTS-1 investigation (ER-600). Volume 1: ERTS-1 agricultural analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Erb, R. B.

1974-01-01

The Agriculture Analysis Team of the Johnson Space Center conducted a 1-year-long investigation of ERTS-1 multispectral data to evaluate how well features of agricultural importance could be detected, identified, and located; and their areal extent measured. Six study areas were selected in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Two basic analytical approaches were used to meet the objectives. The conventional image interpretation technique revealed that a particular color was an indication of the density of vegetative cover, not an indication of crop classification. Computer-aided techniques were used to classify crop types (i.e., small grains, truck farm crops, grasses, summer fallow) to accuracies as high as 95 percent on large (12 hectares or more) well-defined fields. A further breakdown into crop species (wheat, barley, soybeans, oats, corn) reduced the accuracy to 70 to 80 percent for single-date observations.

Theoretical and experimental studies of atmospheric structure and dynamics, using high altitude chemical release, Radio meteor, and meteorological rocket network and other data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edwards, H. D.

1976-01-01

Data collected by the Georgia Tech Radio Meteor Wind Facility during the fall and winter of 1975 are analyzed indicating a relationship between lower thermospheric circulation at mid latitudes and polar stratospheric dynamics. Techniques of measurement of mixing processes in the upper atmosphere and the interpretation of those measurements are described along with a diffusion simulation program based on the Global Reference Atmosphere program.

[The dream as a tool in diagnosis, healing and life orientation in antiquity].

PubMed

Strunz, F

1994-10-01

The dream is usually discussed in connection with the work of Freud und Jung and the dreamlore initiated by these two eminent dream scientists. Therefore the dream knowledge gathered by investigators of classical antiquity is almost forgotten, although the same diagnostic and therapeutic aims have been followed by them as they are by modern psychotherapy and medicine. Hippocrates and the other Greek physicians saw in dreams indications of bodily and psychosomatic disturbances. Dreams from the gods, especially Ascelepios, helped those who travelled from afar to be healed while sleeping in the temples. Popular dream interpretation availed itself of just as sophisticated an interpretative system as has been set up by modern depth psychologists. Dreams served to give orientation in life and warn of fateful future events. In spite of its elusive quality truth is sought in dreams today as it was in antiquity. Dream interpretation was then, and is now, one of the preferential techniques of existence.

Effort, symptom validity testing, performance validity testing and traumatic brain injury.

PubMed

Bigler, Erin D

2014-01-01

To understand the neurocognitive effects of brain injury, valid neuropsychological test findings are paramount. This review examines the research on what has been referred to a symptom validity testing (SVT). Above a designated cut-score signifies a 'passing' SVT performance which is likely the best indicator of valid neuropsychological test findings. Likewise, substantially below cut-point performance that nears chance or is at chance signifies invalid test performance. Significantly below chance is the sine qua non neuropsychological indicator for malingering. However, the interpretative problems with SVT performance below the cut-point yet far above chance are substantial, as pointed out in this review. This intermediate, border-zone performance on SVT measures is where substantial interpretative challenges exist. Case studies are used to highlight the many areas where additional research is needed. Historical perspectives are reviewed along with the neurobiology of effort. Reasons why performance validity testing (PVT) may be better than the SVT term are reviewed. Advances in neuroimaging techniques may be key in better understanding the meaning of border zone SVT failure. The review demonstrates the problems with rigidity in interpretation with established cut-scores. A better understanding of how certain types of neurological, neuropsychiatric and/or even test conditions may affect SVT performance is needed.

Interpretational Confounding or Confounded Interpretations of Causal Indicators?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bainter, Sierra A.; Bollen, Kenneth A.

2014-01-01

In measurement theory, causal indicators are controversial and little understood. Methodological disagreement concerning causal indicators has centered on the question of whether causal indicators are inherently sensitive to interpretational confounding, which occurs when the empirical meaning of a latent construct departs from the meaning…

Assessing rangelands

USGS Publications Warehouse

Pyke, David A.

2002-01-01

It is important for land managers and technical assistance specialists to be able to assess the health of rangelands in order to know where to focus management efforts. The complexity of ecological processes, and the inherent expense of directly measuring site integrity, suggests a need for an evaluation process that focuses instead on biological and physical attributes. In a collaborative effort, the USGS, ARS, BLM, and NRCS have jointly developed a system in which 17 indicators are used to gauge three attributes of rangeland health. A qualitative, observational procedure provides an assessment of the functional status of these indicators. This quick assessment technique, by providing an understanding about each attribute, helps interpret rangeland health.

A guide to understanding meta-analysis.

PubMed

Israel, Heidi; Richter, Randy R

2011-07-01

With the focus on evidence-based practice in healthcare, a well-conducted systematic review that includes a meta-analysis where indicated represents a high level of evidence for treatment effectiveness. The purpose of this commentary is to assist clinicians in understanding meta-analysis as a statistical tool using both published articles and explanations of components of the technique. We describe what meta-analysis is, what heterogeneity is, and how it affects meta-analysis, effect size, the modeling techniques of meta-analysis, and strengths and weaknesses of meta-analysis. Common components like forest plot interpretation, software that may be used, special cases for meta-analysis, such as subgroup analysis, individual patient data, and meta-regression, and a discussion of criticisms, are included.

Using Analytical Techniques to Interpret Financial Statements.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walters, Donald L.

1986-01-01

Summarizes techniques for interpreting the balance sheet and the statement of revenues, expenditures, and changes-in-fund-balance sections of the comprehensive annual financial report required of all school districts. Uses three tables to show intricacies involved and focuses on analyzing favorable and unfavorable budget variances. (MLH)

[Blood cultures in the paediatric emergency department. Guidelines and recommendations on their indications, collection, processing and interpretation].

PubMed

Hernández-Bou, S; Álvarez Álvarez, C; Campo Fernández, M N; García Herrero, M A; Gené Giralt, A; Giménez Pérez, M; Piñeiro Pérez, R; Gómez Cortés, B; Velasco, R; Menasalvas Ruiz, A I; García García, J J; Rodrigo Gonzalo de Liria, C

2016-05-01

Blood culture (BC) is the gold standard when a bacteraemia is suspected, and is one of the most requested microbiological tests in paediatrics. Some changes have occurred in recent years: the introduction of new vaccines, the increasing number of patients with central vascular catheters, as well as the introduction of continuous monitoring BC systems. These changes have led to the review and update of different factors related to this technique in order to optimise its use. A practice guideline is presented with recommendations on BC, established by the Spanish Society of Paediatric Emergency Care and the Spanish Society for Paediatric Infectious Diseases. After reviewing the available scientific evidence, several recommendations for each of the following aspects are presented: BC indications in the Emergency Department, how to obtain, transport and process cultures, special situations (indications and interpretation of results in immunosuppressed patients and/or central vascular catheter carriers, indications for anaerobic BC), differentiation between bacteraemia and contamination when a BC shows bacterial growth and actions to take with a positive BC in patients with fever of unknown origin. Copyright © 2015 Asociación Española de Pediatría. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

From Computer-interpretable Guidelines to Computer-interpretable Quality Indicators: A Case for an Ontology.

PubMed

White, Pam; Roudsari, Abdul

2014-01-01

In the United Kingdom's National Health Service, quality indicators are generally measured electronically by using queries and data extraction, resulting in overlap and duplication of query components. Electronic measurement of health care quality indicators could be improved through an ontology intended to reduce duplication of effort during healthcare quality monitoring. While much research has been published on ontologies for computer-interpretable guidelines, quality indicators have lagged behind. We aimed to determine progress on the use of ontologies to facilitate computer-interpretable healthcare quality indicators. We assessed potential for improvements to computer-interpretable healthcare quality indicators in England. We concluded that an ontology for a large, diverse set of healthcare quality indicators could benefit the NHS and reduce workload, with potential lessons for other countries.

Use of global ionospheric maps for HF Doppler measurements interpretation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petrova, I. R.; Bochkarev, V. V.; Latypov, R. R.

2018-04-01

The HF Doppler technique, a method of measurement of Doppler frequency shift of ionospheric signal, is one of the well-known and widely used techniques of ionosphere research. It allows investigation of various disturbances in the ionosphere. There are different sources of disturbances in the ionosphere such as geomagnetic storms, solar flashes, meteorological effects and atmospheric waves. The HF Doppler technique allows us to find out the influence of earthquakes, explosions and other processes on the ionosphere, which occurs near the Earth. HF Doppler technique has high sensitivity to small frequency variations and high time resolution but interpretation of results is difficult. In this paper, we attempt to use GPS data for Doppler measurements interpretation. Modeling of Doppler frequency shift variations with use of TEC allows separation of ionosphere disturbances of medium scale.

Comparative interpretations of renormalization inversion technique for reconstructing unknown emissions from measured atmospheric concentrations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Singh, Sarvesh Kumar; Kumar, Pramod; Rani, Raj; Turbelin, Grégory

2017-04-01

The study highlights a theoretical comparison and various interpretations of a recent inversion technique, called renormalization, developed for the reconstruction of unknown tracer emissions from their measured concentrations. The comparative interpretations are presented in relation to the other inversion techniques based on principle of regularization, Bayesian, minimum norm, maximum entropy on mean, and model resolution optimization. It is shown that the renormalization technique can be interpreted in a similar manner to other techniques, with a practical choice of a priori information and error statistics, while eliminating the need of additional constraints. The study shows that the proposed weight matrix and weighted Gram matrix offer a suitable deterministic choice to the background error and measurement covariance matrices, respectively, in the absence of statistical knowledge about background and measurement errors. The technique is advantageous since it (i) utilizes weights representing a priori information apparent to the monitoring network, (ii) avoids dependence on background source estimates, (iii) improves on alternative choices for the error statistics, (iv) overcomes the colocalization problem in a natural manner, and (v) provides an optimally resolved source reconstruction. A comparative illustration of source retrieval is made by using the real measurements from a continuous point release conducted in Fusion Field Trials, Dugway Proving Ground, Utah.

Applied photo interpretation for airbrush cartography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Inge, J. L.; Bridges, P. M.

1976-01-01

New techniques of cartographic portrayal have been developed for the compilation of maps of lunar and planetary surfaces. Conventional photo interpretation methods utilizing size, shape, shadow, tone, pattern, and texture are applied to computer processed satellite television images. The variety of the image data allows the illustrator to interpret image details by inter-comparison and intra-comparison of photographs. Comparative judgements are affected by illumination, resolution, variations in surface coloration, and transmission or processing artifacts. The validity of the interpretation process is tested by making a representational drawing by an airbrush portrayal technique. Production controls insure the consistency of a map series. Photo interpretive cartographic portrayal skills are used to prepare two kinds of map series and are adaptable to map products of different kinds and purposes.

Analysis and Interpretation of Findings Using Multiple Regression Techniques

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hoyt, William T.; Leierer, Stephen; Millington, Michael J.

2006-01-01

Multiple regression and correlation (MRC) methods form a flexible family of statistical techniques that can address a wide variety of different types of research questions of interest to rehabilitation professionals. In this article, we review basic concepts and terms, with an emphasis on interpretation of findings relevant to research questions…

Simplified Techniques for Evaluation and Interpretation of Pavement Deflections for Network-level Analysis : Guide for Assessment of Pavement Structure Performance for PMS Applications

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-06-01

The objective of this study was to develop an approach for incorporating techniques to interpret and evaluate deflection : data for network-level pavement management system (PMS) applications. The first part of this research focused on : identifying ...

ANALYSIS OF A CLASSIFICATION ERROR MATRIX USING CATEGORICAL DATA TECHNIQUES.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Rosenfield, George H.; Fitzpatrick-Lins, Katherine

1984-01-01

Summary form only given. A classification error matrix typically contains tabulation results of an accuracy evaluation of a thematic classification, such as that of a land use and land cover map. The diagonal elements of the matrix represent the counts corrected, and the usual designation of classification accuracy has been the total percent correct. The nondiagonal elements of the matrix have usually been neglected. The classification error matrix is known in statistical terms as a contingency table of categorical data. As an example, an application of these methodologies to a problem of remotely sensed data concerning two photointerpreters and four categories of classification indicated that there is no significant difference in the interpretation between the two photointerpreters, and that there are significant differences among the interpreted category classifications. However, two categories, oak and cottonwood, are not separable in classification in this experiment at the 0. 51 percent probability. A coefficient of agreement is determined for the interpreted map as a whole, and individually for each of the interpreted categories. A conditional coefficient of agreement for the individual categories is compared to other methods for expressing category accuracy which have already been presented in the remote sensing literature.

Comparison of Commercial Electromagnetic Interface Test Techniques to NASA Electromagnetic Interference Test Techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, V.

2000-11-01

This report documents the development of analytical techniques required for interpreting and comparing space systems electromagnetic interference test data with commercial electromagnetic interference test data using NASA Specification SSP 30237A "Space Systems Electromagnetic Emission and Susceptibility Requirements for Electromagnetic Compatibility." The PSpice computer simulation results and the laboratory measurements for the test setups under study compare well. The study results, however, indicate that the transfer function required to translate test results of one setup to another is highly dependent on cables and their actual layout in the test setup. Since cables are equipment specific and are not specified in the test standards, developing a transfer function that would cover all cable types (random, twisted, or coaxial), sizes (gauge number and length), and layouts (distance from the ground plane) is not practical.

Assessment of probability of detection of delaminations in fiber-reinforced composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chern, E. J.; Chu, H. P.; Yang, J. N.

1991-01-01

Delamination is one of the critical defects in composite materials and structures. An ultrasonic C-scan imaging technique which maps out the acoustic impedance mismatched areas with respect to the sample coordinates, is particularly well suited for detecting and characterizing delaminations in composites. To properly interpret the results, it is necessary to correlate the indications with the detection limits and probability of detection (POD) of the ultrasonic C-scan imaging technique. The baseline information on the assessment of POD of delaminations in composite materials and structures is very beneficial to the evaluation of spacecraft materials. In this study, we review the principle of POD, describe the laboratory set-up and procedure, and present the experimental results as well as assessment of POD of delaminations in fiber reinforced composite panels using ultrasonic C-scan techniques.

Comparison of Commercial Electromagnetic Interface Test Techniques to NASA Electromagnetic Interference Test Techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, V.; Minor, J. L. (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

This report documents the development of analytical techniques required for interpreting and comparing space systems electromagnetic interference test data with commercial electromagnetic interference test data using NASA Specification SSP 30237A "Space Systems Electromagnetic Emission and Susceptibility Requirements for Electromagnetic Compatibility." The PSpice computer simulation results and the laboratory measurements for the test setups under study compare well. The study results, however, indicate that the transfer function required to translate test results of one setup to another is highly dependent on cables and their actual layout in the test setup. Since cables are equipment specific and are not specified in the test standards, developing a transfer function that would cover all cable types (random, twisted, or coaxial), sizes (gauge number and length), and layouts (distance from the ground plane) is not practical.

Water Operations Technical Support Program: Techniques for Evaluating Aquatic Habitats in Rivers, Streams, and Reservoirs. Proceedings of a Workshop Held in Vicksburg, Mississippi on 8-10 August 1989.

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-08-01

cohorts). The abundance of individuals greater than 20 mm SL and the complexity of size demography indicated longevity of 2 to 3 years for a substantial...Richard Kasul ......... ......................... . 86 DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION ...... ................... 93 Measurement of Size Demography ...Experi- ment Station, Vicksburg, MS. Miller, A. C., and Payne, B. S. 1988. "The Need for Quantitative Sampling to Characterize Size Demography and Density

Using borehole flow logging to optimize hydraulic-test procedures in heterogeneous fractured aquifers

USGS Publications Warehouse

Paillet, F.L.

1995-01-01

Hydraulic properties of heterogeneous fractured aquifers are difficult to characterize, and such characterization usually requires equipment-intensive and time-consuming applications of hydraulic testing in situ. Conventional coring and geophysical logging techniques provide useful and reliable information on the distribution of bedding planes, fractures and solution openings along boreholes, but it is often unclear how these locally permeable features are organized into larger-scale zones of hydraulic conductivity. New boreholes flow-logging equipment provides techniques designed to identify hydraulically active fractures intersecting boreholes, and to indicate how these fractures might be connected to larger-scale flow paths in the surrounding aquifer. Potential complications in interpreting flowmeter logs include: 1) Ambient hydraulic conditions that mask the detection of hydraulically active fractures; 2) Inability to maintain quasi-steady drawdowns during aquifer tests, which causes temporal variations in flow intensity to be confused with inflows during pumping; and 3) Effects of uncontrolled background variations in hydraulic head, which also complicate the interpretation of inflows during aquifer tests. Application of these techniques is illustrated by the analysis of cross-borehole flowmeter data from an array of four bedrock boreholes in granitic schist at the Mirror Lake, New Hampshire, research site. Only two days of field operations were required to unambiguously identify the few fractures or fracture zones that contribute most inflow to boreholes in the CO borehole array during pumping. Such information was critical in the interpretation of water-quality data. This information also permitted the setting of the available string of two packers in each borehole so as to return the aquifer as close to pre-drilling conditions as possible with the available equipment.

Real-time monitoring of CO2 storage sites: Application to Illinois Basin-Decatur Project

USGS Publications Warehouse

Picard, G.; Berard, T.; Chabora, E.; Marsteller, S.; Greenberg, S.; Finley, R.J.; Rinck, U.; Greenaway, R.; Champagnon, C.; Davard, J.

2011-01-01

Optimization of carbon dioxide (CO2) storage operations for efficiency and safety requires use of monitoring techniques and implementation of control protocols. The monitoring techniques consist of permanent sensors and tools deployed for measurement campaigns. Large amounts of data are thus generated. These data must be managed and integrated for interpretation at different time scales. A fast interpretation loop involves combining continuous measurements from permanent sensors as they are collected to enable a rapid response to detected events; a slower loop requires combining large datasets gathered over longer operational periods from all techniques. The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, it presents an analysis of the monitoring objectives to be performed in the slow and fast interpretation loops. Second, it describes the implementation of the fast interpretation loop with a real-time monitoring system at the Illinois Basin-Decatur Project (IBDP) in Illinois, USA. ?? 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd.

The use of interpractive graphic displays for interpretation of surface design parameters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Talcott, N. A., Jr.

1981-01-01

An interactive computer graphics technique known as the Graphic Display Data method has been developed to provide a convenient means for rapidly interpreting large amounts of surface design data. The display technique should prove valuable in such disciplines as aerodynamic analysis, structural analysis, and experimental data analysis. To demonstrate the system's features, an example is presented of the Graphic Data Display method used as an interpretive tool for radiation equilibrium temperature distributions over the surface of an aerodynamic vehicle. Color graphic displays were also examined as a logical extension of the technique to improve its clarity and to allow the presentation of greater detail in a single display.

Irrigated rice area estimation using remote sensing techniques: Project's proposal and preliminary results. [Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parada, N. D. J. (Principal Investigator); Deassuncao, G. V.; Moreira, M. A.; Novaes, R. A.

1984-01-01

The development of a methodology for annual estimates of irrigated rice crop in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, using remote sensing techniques is proposed. The project involves interpretation, digital analysis, and sampling techniques of LANDSAT imagery. Results are discussed from a preliminary phase for identifying and evaluating irrigated rice crop areas in four counties of the State, for the crop year 1982/1983. This first phase involved just visual interpretation techniques of MSS/LANDSAT images.

The indicator performance estimate approach to determining acceptable wilderness conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hollenhorst, Steven; Gardner, Lisa

1994-11-01

Using data from a study conducted in the Cranberry Wilderness Area of West Virginia, United States, this paper describes how a modified importance—performance approach can be used to prioritize wilderness indicators and determine how much change from the pristine is acceptable. The approach uses two key types of information: (1) indicator importance, or visitor opinion as to which wilderness indicators have the greatest influence on their experience, and (2) management performance, or the extent to which actual indicator conditions exceed or are within visitor expectations. Performance was represented by calculating indicator performance estimates (IPEs), as defined by standardized differences between actual conditions and visitor preferences for each indicator. The results for each indicator are then presented graphically on a four-quadrant matrix for objective interpretation. Each quadrant represents a management response: keep up the good work, concentrate here, low priority, or possible overkill. The technique allows managers to more systematically and effectively utilize information routinely collected during the limits of acceptable change wilderness planning process.

The Optimum Text in Simultaneous Interpreting: A Cognitive Approach to Interpreters' Training.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alexieva, Bistra

A discussion of text translatability in simultaneous interpreting (SI) looks at semantic redundancy, the repetition of semantic components essential to creating an utterance, and offers some classroom techniques for teaching interpreting skills. It is proposed that the translatability of a text in SI should be studied in terms of the experiential…

La interpretacion consecutiva: metodologia y tecnicas (Consecutive Interpretation: Methodology and Techniques).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Drallny, Ines

1987-01-01

Describes the purpose and appropriate methodology for various levels of interpreter training, for both consecutive and simultaneous interpretation. The importance of relating the intent of the text to the explicit language forms through which that intent is realized is discussed, and appropriate criteria for evaluation of student interpreters are…

Inhomogeneities and segregation behavior in strontium—barium niobate fibers grown by laser-heated pedestal growth technique. Part II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Erdei, S.; Galambos, L.; Tanaka, I.; Hesselink, L.; Cross, L. E.; Feigelson, R. S.; Ainger, F. W.; Kojima, H.

1996-10-01

Inhomogeneities in Ce-doped and undoped fibers grown by laser-heated pedestal growth (LHPG) along the c- or a- axis were investigated by two-dimensional scanning electron microprobe analysis (SEPMA). SEPMA data indicated that these cores are primarily connected with the source rod compositions utilized and the convection characteristics of the LHPG technique. Ba enrichment and Sr decrease were primarily detected in the cores and qualitatively described in terms of the composition-control mechanism of LHPG, the complex-segregation and a modified Burton—Prim—Slichter (BPS) equation. Certain aspects of defect structure as a complex congruency related phenomenon are also discussed in the paper giving a more complete interpretation of the origin of cores in SBN fibers.

Support vector machine for automatic pain recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monwar, Md Maruf; Rezaei, Siamak

2009-02-01

Facial expressions are a key index of emotion and the interpretation of such expressions of emotion is critical to everyday social functioning. In this paper, we present an efficient video analysis technique for recognition of a specific expression, pain, from human faces. We employ an automatic face detector which detects face from the stored video frame using skin color modeling technique. For pain recognition, location and shape features of the detected faces are computed. These features are then used as inputs to a support vector machine (SVM) for classification. We compare the results with neural network based and eigenimage based automatic pain recognition systems. The experiment results indicate that using support vector machine as classifier can certainly improve the performance of automatic pain recognition system.

Noninvasive imaging of bone microarchitecture

PubMed Central

Patsch, Janina M.; Burghardt, Andrew J.; Kazakia, Galateia; Majumdar, Sharmila

2015-01-01

The noninvasive quantification of peripheral compartment-specific bone microarchitecture is feasible with high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) and high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR-MRI). In addition to classic morphometric indices, both techniques provide a suitable basis for virtual biomechanical testing using finite element (FE) analyses. Methodical limitations, morphometric parameter definition, and motion artifacts have to be considered to achieve optimal data interpretation from imaging studies. With increasing availability of in vivo high-resolution bone imaging techniques, special emphasis should be put on quality control including multicenter, cross-site validations. Importantly, conclusions from interventional studies investigating the effects of antiosteoporotic drugs on bone microarchitecture should be drawn with care, ideally involving imaging scientists, translational researchers, and clinicians. PMID:22172043

[Myocardial perfusion scintigraphy - short form of the German guideline].

PubMed

Lindner, O; Burchert, W; Hacker, M; Schaefer, W; Schmidt, M; Schober, O; Schwaiger, M; vom Dahl, J; Zimmermann, R; Schäfers, M

2013-01-01

This guideline is a short summary of the guideline for myocardial perfusion scintigraphy published by the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Ger-many (AWMF). The purpose of this guideline is to provide practical assistance for indication and examination procedures as well as image analysis and to present the state-of-the-art of myocardial-perfusion-scintigraphy. After a short introduction on the fundamentals of imaging, precise and detailed information is given on the indications, patient preparation, stress testing, radiopharmaceuticals, examination protocols and techniques, radiation exposure, data reconstruction as well as information on visual and quantitative image analysis and interpretation. In addition possible pitfalls, artefacts and key elements of reporting are described.

Equity in Irish health care financing: measurement issues.

PubMed

Smith, Samantha

2010-04-01

This paper employs widely used analytic techniques for measuring equity in health care financing to update Irish results from previous analysis based on data from the late 1980s. Kakwani indices are calculated using household survey data from 1987/88 to 2004/05. Results indicate a marginally progressive financing system overall. However, interpretation of the results for the private sources of health financing is complicated. This problem is not unique to Ireland but it is argued that it may be relatively more important in the context of a complex health financing system, illustrated in this paper by the Irish system. Alternative options for improving the analysis of equity in health care financing are discussed.

A manual for inexpensive methods of analyzing and utilizing remote sensor data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elifrits, C. D.; Barr, D. J.

1978-01-01

Instructions are provided for inexpensive methods of using remote sensor data to assist in the completion of the need to observe the earth's surface. When possible, relative costs were included. Equipment need for analysis of remote sensor data is described, and methods of use of these equipment items are included, as well as advantages and disadvantages of the use of individual items. Interpretation and analysis of stereo photos and the interpretation of typical patterns such as tone and texture, landcover, drainage, and erosional form are described. Similar treatment is given to monoscopic image interpretation, including LANDSAT MSS data. Enhancement techniques are detailed with respect to their application and simple techniques of creating an enhanced data item. Techniques described include additive and subtractive (Diazo processes) color techniques and enlargement of photos or images. Applications of these processes, including mappings of land resources, engineering soils, geology, water resources, environmental conditions, and crops and/or vegetation, are outlined.

Cardiac imaging: working towards fully-automated machine analysis & interpretation.

PubMed

Slomka, Piotr J; Dey, Damini; Sitek, Arkadiusz; Motwani, Manish; Berman, Daniel S; Germano, Guido

2017-03-01

Non-invasive imaging plays a critical role in managing patients with cardiovascular disease. Although subjective visual interpretation remains the clinical mainstay, quantitative analysis facilitates objective, evidence-based management, and advances in clinical research. This has driven developments in computing and software tools aimed at achieving fully automated image processing and quantitative analysis. In parallel, machine learning techniques have been used to rapidly integrate large amounts of clinical and quantitative imaging data to provide highly personalized individual patient-based conclusions. Areas covered: This review summarizes recent advances in automated quantitative imaging in cardiology and describes the latest techniques which incorporate machine learning principles. The review focuses on the cardiac imaging techniques which are in wide clinical use. It also discusses key issues and obstacles for these tools to become utilized in mainstream clinical practice. Expert commentary: Fully-automated processing and high-level computer interpretation of cardiac imaging are becoming a reality. Application of machine learning to the vast amounts of quantitative data generated per scan and integration with clinical data also facilitates a move to more patient-specific interpretation. These developments are unlikely to replace interpreting physicians but will provide them with highly accurate tools to detect disease, risk-stratify, and optimize patient-specific treatment. However, with each technological advance, we move further from human dependence and closer to fully-automated machine interpretation.

Report to TRMM

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jameson, Arthur R.

1997-01-01

The effort involved three elements all related to the measurement of rain and clouds using microwaves: (1) Examine recently proposed techniques for measuring rainfall rate and rain water content using data from ground-based radars and the TRMM microwave link in order to develop improved ground validation and radar calibration techniques; (2) Develop dual-polarization, multiple frequency radar techniques for estimating rain water content and cloud water content to interpret the vertical profiles of radar reflectivity factors (Z) measured by the TRMM Precipitation Radar; and (3) Investigate theoretically and experimentally the potential biases in TRMM Z measurements due to spatial inhomogeneities in precipitation. The research succeeded in addressing all of these topics, resulting in several referred publications. addition, the research indicated that the effects of non-Rayleigh statistics resulting from the nature of the precipitation inhomogeneities will probably not result in serious errors for the TRMM radar Measurements, but the TRMM radiometers may be subject to significant bias due to the inhomogeneities.

Report to TRMM

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jameson, Arthur R.

1997-01-01

The effort involved three elements all related to the measurement of rain and clouds using microwaves: (1) Examine recently proposed techniques for measuring rainfall rate and rain water content using data from ground-based radars and the TRMM microwave link in order to develop improved ground validation and radar calibration techniques; (2) Develop dual-polarization, multiple frequency radar techniques for estimating rain water content and cloud water content to interpret the vertical profiles of radar reflectivity factors (Z) measured by the TRMM Precipitation Radar; and (3) Investigate theoretically and experimentally the potential biases in TRMM Z measurements due to spatial inhomogeneities in precipitation. The research succeeded in addressing all of these topics, resulting in several refereed publications. In addition, the research indicated that the effects of non-Rayleigh statistics resulting from the nature of the precipitation inhomogeneities will probably not result in serious errors for the TRMM radar measurements, but the TRMM radiometers may be subject to significant bias due to the inhomogeneities.

A multidisciplinary approach to reservoir subdivision of the Maastrichtian chalk in the Dan field, Danish North Sea

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

Kristensen, L.; Dons, T.; Schioler, P.

1995-11-01

Correlation of wireline log data from the North Sea chalk reservoirs is frequently hampered by rather subtle log patterns in the chalk section due to the apparent monotonous nature of the chalk sediments, which may lead to ambiguous correlations. This study deals with a correlation technique based on an integration of biostratigraphic data, seismic interpretation, and wireline log correlation; this technique aims at producing a consistent reservoir subdivision that honors both the well data and the seismic data. This multidisciplinary approach has been used to subdivide and correlate the Maastrichtian chalk in the Dan field. The biostratigraphic subdivision is basedmore » on a new detailed dinoflagellate study of core samples from eight wells. Integrating the biostratigraphic results with three-dimensional seismic data allows recognition of four stratigraphic units within the Maastrichtian, bounded by assumed chronostratigraphic horizons. This subdivision is further refined by adding a seismic horizon and four horizons from wireline log correlations, establishing a total of nine reservoir units. The approximate chronostratigraphic nature of these units provides an improved interpretation of the depositional and structural patterns in this area. The three upper reservoir units pinch out and disappear in a northeasterly direction across the field. We interpret this stratal pattern as reflecting a relative sea level fall or regional basinal subsidence during the latest Maastrichtian, possibly combined with local synsedimentary uplift due to salt tectonics. Isochore maps indicate that the underlying six non-wedging units are unaffected by salt tectonics.« less

The Elicitation Interview Technique: Capturing People's Experiences of Data Representations.

PubMed

Hogan, Trevor; Hinrichs, Uta; Hornecker, Eva

2016-12-01

Information visualization has become a popular tool to facilitate sense-making, discovery and communication in a large range of professional and casual contexts. However, evaluating visualizations is still a challenge. In particular, we lack techniques to help understand how visualizations are experienced by people. In this paper we discuss the potential of the Elicitation Interview technique to be applied in the context of visualization. The Elicitation Interview is a method for gathering detailed and precise accounts of human experience. We argue that it can be applied to help understand how people experience and interpret visualizations as part of exploration and data analysis processes. We describe the key characteristics of this interview technique and present a study we conducted to exemplify how it can be applied to evaluate data representations. Our study illustrates the types of insights this technique can bring to the fore, for example, evidence for deep interpretation of visual representations and the formation of interpretations and stories beyond the represented data. We discuss general visualization evaluation scenarios where the Elicitation Interview technique may be beneficial and specify what needs to be considered when applying this technique in a visualization context specifically.

Interpreting as a Language Teaching Technique. Proceedings of a Conference (University of Salford, England, January 2-5, 1985).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thomas, Noel, Ed.; Towell, Richard, Ed.

Papers presented at a conference on the use of simultaneous, consecutive, and other forms of interpreting as features of foreign language teaching and learning in British higher education include the following: "Liaison Interpreting as a Communicative Language-Learning Exercise" (H. A. Keith); "Interpreting and Communicating:…

Commentary: "re-programming or selecting adult stem cells?".

PubMed

Trosko, James E

2008-01-01

The recent observations that embryonic stemness-associated genes could assist in the "de-differentiation" of adult skin fibroblast cells to "embryonic-like stem cells", using the "somatic cell nuclear transfer" techniques, have been interpreted as indicating a "re-programming" of genes. These reports have demonstrated a "proof of principle" approach to by-pass many, but not all, of the ethical, scientific and medical limitations of the "therapeutic cloning" of embryonic stem cells from embryos. However, while the interpretation that real "re-programming" of all those somatic fibroblastic differentiation genes might be correct, there does exists an alternative hypothesis of these exciting results. Based on the fact that multipotent adult stem cells exist in most, if not all, adult organs, the possibility exists that all these recent "re-programming" results, using the somatic nuclear transfer techniques, actually were the results of transferred rare nuclear material from the adult stem cells residing in the skin of the mouse, monkey and human samples. An examination of the rationale for this challenging hypothesis has been drawn from the hypothesis of the "stem cell theory of cancer", as well as from the field of human adult stem cells research.

Robust misinterpretation of confidence intervals.

PubMed

Hoekstra, Rink; Morey, Richard D; Rouder, Jeffrey N; Wagenmakers, Eric-Jan

2014-10-01

Null hypothesis significance testing (NHST) is undoubtedly the most common inferential technique used to justify claims in the social sciences. However, even staunch defenders of NHST agree that its outcomes are often misinterpreted. Confidence intervals (CIs) have frequently been proposed as a more useful alternative to NHST, and their use is strongly encouraged in the APA Manual. Nevertheless, little is known about how researchers interpret CIs. In this study, 120 researchers and 442 students-all in the field of psychology-were asked to assess the truth value of six particular statements involving different interpretations of a CI. Although all six statements were false, both researchers and students endorsed, on average, more than three statements, indicating a gross misunderstanding of CIs. Self-declared experience with statistics was not related to researchers' performance, and, even more surprisingly, researchers hardly outperformed the students, even though the students had not received any education on statistical inference whatsoever. Our findings suggest that many researchers do not know the correct interpretation of a CI. The misunderstandings surrounding p-values and CIs are particularly unfortunate because they constitute the main tools by which psychologists draw conclusions from data.

THE APPLICATION OF PHOTOGRAPHIC INTERPRETATION AND RELATED TECHNOLOGIES IN MODERN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

EPA Science Inventory

Imagery Interpretation is a timed-tested technique for extracting landscape-level information from aerial photographs and other types of remotely sensed data. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Environmental Photographic Interpretation Center (EPIC) has a 25+ year history...

Infusing Counseling Skills in Test Interpretation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rawlins, Melanie E.; And Others

1991-01-01

Presents an instructional model based on Neurolinguistic Programming that links counseling student course work in measurement and test interpretation with counseling techniques and theory. A process incorporating Neurolinguistic Programming patterns is outlined for teaching graduate students the counseling skills helpful in test interpretation.…

Exploring Rating Quality in Rater-Mediated Assessments Using Mokken Scale Analysis

PubMed Central

Wind, Stefanie A.; Engelhard, George

2015-01-01

Mokken scale analysis is a probabilistic nonparametric approach that offers statistical and graphical tools for evaluating the quality of social science measurement without placing potentially inappropriate restrictions on the structure of a data set. In particular, Mokken scaling provides a useful method for evaluating important measurement properties, such as invariance, in contexts where response processes are not well understood. Because rater-mediated assessments involve complex interactions among many variables, including assessment contexts, student artifacts, rubrics, individual rater characteristics, and others, rater-assigned scores are suitable candidates for Mokken scale analysis. The purposes of this study are to describe a suite of indices that can be used to explore the psychometric quality of data from rater-mediated assessments and to illustrate the substantive interpretation of Mokken-based statistics and displays in this context. Techniques that are commonly used in polytomous applications of Mokken scaling are adapted for use with rater-mediated assessments, with a focus on the substantive interpretation related to individual raters. Overall, the findings suggest that indices of rater monotonicity, rater scalability, and invariant rater ordering based on Mokken scaling provide diagnostic information at the level of individual raters related to the requirements for invariant measurement. These Mokken-based indices serve as an additional suite of diagnostic tools for exploring the quality of data from rater-mediated assessments that can supplement rating quality indices based on parametric models. PMID:29795883

Methodology for interpretation of SST retrievals using the AVHRR split window algorithm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barbieri, R. W.; Mcclain, C. R.; Endres, D. L.

1983-01-01

Intercomparisons of sea surface temperature (SST) products derived from the operational NOAA-7 AVHRR-II algorithm and in situ observations are made. The 1982 data sets consist of ship survey data during the winter from the Mid-Atlantic Bight (MAB), ship and buoy measurements during April and September in the Gulf of Mexico and shipboard observations during April off the N.W. Spanish coast. The analyses included single pixel comparisons and the warmest pixel technique for 2 x 2 pixel and 10 x 10 pixel areas. The reason for using multi-pixel areas was for avoiding cloud contaminated pixels in the vicinity of the field measurements. Care must be taken when applying the warmest pixel technique near oceanic fronts. The Gulf of Mexico results clearly indicate a persistent degradation in algorithm accuracy due to El Chichon aerosols. The MAB and Spanish data sets indicate that very accurate estimates can be achieved if care is taken to avoid clouds and oceanic fronts.

42 CFR 493.911 - Bacteriology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... laboratories: (1) Those that interpret Gram stains or perform primary inoculation, or both; and refer cultures...; (2) Those that use direct antigen techniques to detect an organism and may also interpret Gram stains... interpreting Gram stains, performing primary inoculations, and using direct antigen tests, also isolate and...

42 CFR 493.911 - Bacteriology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... laboratories: (1) Those that interpret Gram stains or perform primary inoculation, or both; and refer cultures...; (2) Those that use direct antigen techniques to detect an organism and may also interpret Gram stains... interpreting Gram stains, performing primary inoculations, and using direct antigen tests, also isolate and...

42 CFR 493.911 - Bacteriology.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... laboratories: (1) Those that interpret Gram stains or perform primary inoculation, or both; and refer cultures...; (2) Those that use direct antigen techniques to detect an organism and may also interpret Gram stains... interpreting Gram stains, performing primary inoculations, and using direct antigen tests, also isolate and...

Different techniques of multispectral data analysis for vegetation fraction retrieval

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kancheva, Rumiana; Georgiev, Georgi

2012-07-01

Vegetation monitoring is one of the most important applications of remote sensing technologies. In respect to farmlands, the assessment of crop condition constitutes the basis of growth, development, and yield processes monitoring. Plant condition is defined by a set of biometric variables, such as density, height, biomass amount, leaf area index, and etc. The canopy cover fraction is closely related to these variables, and is state-indicative of the growth process. At the same time it is a defining factor of the soil-vegetation system spectral signatures. That is why spectral mixtures decomposition is a primary objective in remotely sensed data processing and interpretation, specifically in agricultural applications. The actual usefulness of the applied methods depends on their prediction reliability. The goal of this paper is to present and compare different techniques for quantitative endmember extraction from soil-crop patterns reflectance. These techniques include: linear spectral unmixing, two-dimensional spectra analysis, spectral ratio analysis (vegetation indices), spectral derivative analysis (red edge position), colorimetric analysis (tristimulus values sum, chromaticity coordinates and dominant wavelength). The objective is to reveal their potential, accuracy and robustness for plant fraction estimation from multispectral data. Regression relationships have been established between crop canopy cover and various spectral estimators.

Combined interpretation of multiple geophysical techniques: an archaeological case study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Riedl, S.; Reichmann, S.; Tronicke, J.; Lück, E.

2009-04-01

In order to locate and ascertain the dimensions of an ancient orangery, we explored an area of about 70 m x 60 m in the Rheinsberg Palace Garden (Germany) with multiple geophysical techniques. The Rheinsberg Park, situated about 100 km northwest of Berlin, Germany, was established by the Prussian emperors in the 18th century. Due to redesign of the architecture and the landscaping during the past 300 years, buildings were dismantled and detailed knowledge about some original buildings got lost. We surveyed an area close to a gazebo where, after historical sources, an orangery was planned around the year 1740. However, today it is not clear to what extent this plan has been realized and if remains of this building are still buried in the subsurface. Applied geophysical techniques include magnetic gradiometry, frequency domain electromagnetic (FDEM) and direct current (DC) resistivity mapping as well as ground penetrating radar (GPR). To get an overview of the site, we performed FDEM electrical conductivity mapping using an EM38 instrument and magnetic gradiometry with caesium magnetometers. Both data sets were collected with an in- and crossline data point spacing of ca. 10 cm and 50 cm, respectively. DC resistivity surveying was performed using a pole-pole electrode configuration with an electrode spacing of 1.5 m and a spacing of 1.0 m between individual readings. A 3-D GPR survey was conducted using 200 MHz antennae and in- and crossline spacing of ca. 10 cm and 40 cm, respectively. A standard processing sequence including 3-D migration was applied. A combined interpretation of all collected data sets illustrates that the magnetic gradient and the EM38 conductivity maps is are dominated by anomalies from metallic water pipes from belonging to the irrigation system of the park. The DC resistivity map outlines a rectangular area which might indicate the extension of a former building south of the gazebo. The 3-D GPR data set provides further insights about subsurface structures and relevant geometries. From this data set, we interpret the depth and the extent of foundation and wall remains in the southern and central part of the site indicating the extent of the old orangery. This case study clearly illustrates the benefit of using multiple geophysical methods in archaeological studies. It further illustrates the advantage of 3-D GPR surveying at sites where anthropogenic disturbances (such as metallic pipes and other utilities) might limit the applicability of commonly applied mapping techniques such as magnetic gradiometry or EM38 conductivity mapping.

Transient thermal modeling of the nonscanning ERBE detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mahan, J. R.

1983-01-01

A numerical model to predict the transient thermal response of the ERBE nonscanning wide field of view total radiometer channel was developed. The model, which uses Monte Carlo techniques to characterize the radiative component of heat transfer, is described and a listing of the computer program is provided. Application of the model to simulate the actual blackbody calibration procedure is discussed. The use of the model to establish a real time flight data interpretation strategy is recommended. Modification of the model to include a simulated Earth radiation source field and a filter dome is indicated.

Clinical evaluation and use of urine screening for drug abuse.

PubMed Central

Saxon, A J; Calsyn, D A; Haver, V M; Delaney, C J

1988-01-01

Urine drug screening is indicated to evaluate patients who show mental status or behavioral changes and to monitor the abstinence of drug abusers. The appropriate timing for collecting urine specimens may vary depending on the suspected drug of abuse and on laboratory factors. Laboratories use a variety of techniques to do urine screens, and these must be understood by clinicians ordering the screens to interpret results correctly. In treating drug-abusing patients, clinicians must apply structured reinforcement in conjunction with urine screen results to aid patients in achieving abstinence. PMID:3176489

Indices of Complexity and Interpretation: Their Computation and Uses in Factor Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hofmann, Richard J.

In this methodological paper two indices are developed: a complexity index and an interpretation index. The complexity index is a positive number indicating on the average how many factors are used to explain each variable in a factor solution. The interpretation index will be positive ranging from zero to unity; unity representing a perfect…

How do stakeholder groups vary in a Delphi technique about primary mental health care and what factors influence their ratings?

PubMed

Campbell, S M; Shield, T; Rogers, A; Gask, L

2004-12-01

While mental health is a core part of primary care, there are few validated quality measures and little relevant internationally published research. Consensus panel methods are a useful means of developing quality measures where evidence is sparse and/or opinions are diverse. However, little is known about the dynamics of consensus techniques and the factors that influence the judgements and ratings of panels and individual panelists. (1) To describe differences in panel ratings on the quality of primary mental health care services by patient, carer, professional and managerial panels within a Delphi procedure; and (2) to explore why different panels and panelists rate quality indicators of primary mental health care differently. Two round postal Delphi technique and exploratory semi-structured interviews. 115 panelists across 11 panels. Eleven panelists were subsequently interviewed. 87 of 334 indicators (26%) were rated face valid by all 11 panels. There was little disagreement within panel ratings but significant differences between panels. The GP panel rated the least number of indicators valid (n = 138, 41%) and carers the most (n = 304, 91%). The way in which panelists interpreted and conceptualised the indicators and their definition of quality of mental health care affected the way in which participants made their ratings. Stakeholders in primary mental health care have diverse views of quality of care and these differences translate into how they rate quality indicators. Exploratory interviews suggest that ratings are influenced by past experience, expectations, definitions of quality of care, and perceived power relationships between stakeholders.

A 'digital' technique for manual extraction of data from aerial photography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Istvan, L. B.; Bondy, M. T.

1977-01-01

The interpretation procedure described uses a grid cell approach. In addition, a random point is located in each cell. The procedure required that the cell/point grid be established on a base map, and identical grids be made to precisely match the scale of the photographic frames. The grid is then positioned on the photography by visual alignment to obvious features. Several alignments on one frame are sometimes required to make a precise match of all points to be interpreted. This system inherently corrects for distortions in the photography. Interpretation is then done cell by cell. In order to meet the time constraints, first order interpretation should be maintained. The data is put onto coding forms, along with other appropriate data, if desired. This 'digital' manual interpretation technique has proven to be efficient, and time and cost effective, while meeting strict requirements for data format and accuracy.

Fuzzy logic and image processing techniques for the interpretation of seismic data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Orozco-del-Castillo, M. G.; Ortiz-Alemán, C.; Urrutia-Fucugauchi, J.; Rodríguez-Castellanos, A.

2011-06-01

Since interpretation of seismic data is usually a tedious and repetitive task, the ability to do so automatically or semi-automatically has become an important objective of recent research. We believe that the vagueness and uncertainty in the interpretation process makes fuzzy logic an appropriate tool to deal with seismic data. In this work we developed a semi-automated fuzzy inference system to detect the internal architecture of a mass transport complex (MTC) in seismic images. We propose that the observed characteristics of a MTC can be expressed as fuzzy if-then rules consisting of linguistic values associated with fuzzy membership functions. The constructions of the fuzzy inference system and various image processing techniques are presented. We conclude that this is a well-suited problem for fuzzy logic since the application of the proposed methodology yields a semi-automatically interpreted MTC which closely resembles the MTC from expert manual interpretation.

Effects of resident water and non-equilibrium adsorption on the primary and enhanced coalbed methane gas recovery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jahediesfanjani, Hossein

The major part of the gas in coalbed methane and shale gas reservoirs is stored as the adsorbed gas in the coal and organic materials of the black shale internal surfaces. The sorption sites in both reservoirs are composed of several macropores that contain very small pore sizes. Therefore, the adsorption/desorption is very slow process and follows a non-equilibrium trend. The time-dependency of the sorption process is further affected by the reservoir resident water. Water can diffuse into the matrix and adsorption sites, plug the pores and affect the reservoir gas production. This study presents an experimental and theoretical procedure to investigate the effects of the resident water and time-dependency of the sorption process on coalbed and shale gas primary and enhanced recovery by simultaneous CO 2/N2 injection. Series of the experiments are conducted to construct both equilibrium and non-equilibrium single and multi-component isotherms with the presence of water. A novel and rapid data interpretation technique is developed based on the nonequilibrium adsorption/desorption thermodynamics, mass conservation law, and volume filling adsorption theory. The developed technique is implemented to construct both equilibrium and non-equilibrium multi-component multi-phase isotherms from the early time experimental measurements. The non-equilibrium isotherms are incorporated in the coalbed methane/shale gas reservoir simulations to account for the time-dependency of the sorption process. The experimental results indicate that the presence of water in the sorption system reduces both carbon dioxide and nitrogen adsorption rates. Reduction in the adsorption rate for carbon dioxide is more than nitrogen. The results also indicate that the resident water reduces the adsorption ability of low rank coals more than high rank ones. The results of the multi-component sorption tests indicate that increasing the initial mole fraction of the nitrogen gas in the injected CO2/N2 mixture will increase the net carbon dioxide sequestration rate on coals in the presence of water. The optimum CO2/N2 ratio that can result in the maximum carbon dioxide sequestration rate can be obtained by conducting the experiments for various CO2/N2 ratios. The results of applying the developed non-equilibrium interpretation technique for several literature and in-house data indicate that both the equilibrium and non-equilibrium isotherms can be constructed in shorter time period (around 70 times less than the time required with the equilibrium techniques) and with higher accuracy using this method. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Interface Problems: Structural Constraints on Interpretation?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Frazier, Lyn; Clifton, Charles; Rayner, Keith; Deevy, Patricia; Koh, Sungryong; Bader, Markus

2005-01-01

Five experiments investigated the interpretation of quantified noun phrases in relation to discourse structure. They demonstrated, using questionnaire and on-line reading techniques, that readers in English prefer to give a quantified noun phrase in (VP-external) subject position a presuppositional interpretation, in which the noun phrase limits…

The fate of the dream in contemporary psychoanalysis.

PubMed

Loden, Susan

2003-01-01

Freud's metapsychology of dream formation has implicitly been discarded, as indicated in a brief review of trends in psychoanalytic thinking about dreams, with a focus on the relationship of the dream process to ego capacities. The current bias toward exclusive emphasis on the exploration of the analytic relationship and the transference has evolved at the expense of classical, in-depth dream interpretation, and, by extension, at the expense of strengthening the patient's capacity for self-inquiry. This trend is shown to be especially evident in the treatment of borderline patients, who today are believed by many analysts to misuse the dream in the analytic situation. An extended clinical example of a borderline patient with whom an unmodified Freudian associative technique of dream interpretation is used with good outcome illustrates the author's contrary conviction. In clinical practice, we should neglect neither the uniqueness of the dream as a central intrapsychic event nor the Freudian art of total dream analysis.

Structural damage detection using deep learning of ultrasonic guided waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Melville, Joseph; Alguri, K. Supreet; Deemer, Chris; Harley, Joel B.

2018-04-01

Structural health monitoring using ultrasonic guided waves relies on accurate interpretation of guided wave propagation to distinguish damage state indicators. However, traditional physics based models do not provide an accurate representation, and classic data driven techniques, such as a support vector machine, are too simplistic to capture the complex nature of ultrasonic guide waves. To address this challenge, this paper uses a deep learning interpretation of ultrasonic guided waves to achieve fast, accurate, and automated structural damaged detection. To achieve this, full wavefield scans of thin metal plates are used, half from the undamaged state and half from the damaged state. This data is used to train our deep network to predict the damage state of a plate with 99.98% accuracy given signals from just 10 spatial locations on the plate, as compared to that of a support vector machine (SVM), which achieved a 62% accuracy.

A fuzzy hill-climbing algorithm for the development of a compact associative classifier

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitra, Soumyaroop; Lam, Sarah S.

2012-02-01

Classification, a data mining technique, has widespread applications including medical diagnosis, targeted marketing, and others. Knowledge discovery from databases in the form of association rules is one of the important data mining tasks. An integrated approach, classification based on association rules, has drawn the attention of the data mining community over the last decade. While attention has been mainly focused on increasing classifier accuracies, not much efforts have been devoted towards building interpretable and less complex models. This paper discusses the development of a compact associative classification model using a hill-climbing approach and fuzzy sets. The proposed methodology builds the rule-base by selecting rules which contribute towards increasing training accuracy, thus balancing classification accuracy with the number of classification association rules. The results indicated that the proposed associative classification model can achieve competitive accuracies on benchmark datasets with continuous attributes and lend better interpretability, when compared with other rule-based systems.

Methods employed for chest radiograph interpretation education for radiographers: A systematic review of the literature.

PubMed

McLaughlin, L; McConnell, J; McFadden, S; Bond, R; Hughes, C

2017-11-01

This systematic review aimed to determine the strength of evidence available in the literature on the effect of training to develop the skills required by radiographers to interpret plain radiography chest images. Thirteen articles feature within the review. Sample size varied from one reporting radiographer to 148 radiography students/experienced radiographers. The quality of the articles achieved a mean score of 7.5/10, indicating the evidence is strong and the quality of studies in this field is high. Investigative approaches included audit of participants' performance in clinical practice post formal training, evaluation of informal training and the impact of short feedback sessions on performance. All studies demonstrated positive attributions on user performance. Using a combination of training techniques can help maximise learning and accommodate those with different preferred learning types. Copyright © 2017 The College of Radiographers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Utility of correlation techniques in gravity and magnetic interpretation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chandler, V. W.; Koski, J. S.; Braice, L. W.; Hinze, W. J.

1977-01-01

Internal correspondence uses Poisson's Theorem in a moving-window linear regression analysis between the anomalous first vertical derivative of gravity and total magnetic field reduced to the pole. The regression parameters provide critical information on source characteristics. The correlation coefficient indicates the strength of the relation between magnetics and gravity. Slope value gives delta j/delta sigma estimates of the anomalous source. The intercept furnishes information on anomaly interference. Cluster analysis consists of the classification of subsets of data into groups of similarity based on correlation of selected characteristics of the anomalies. Model studies are used to illustrate implementation and interpretation procedures of these methods, particularly internal correspondence. Analysis of the results of applying these methods to data from the midcontinent and a transcontinental profile shows they can be useful in identifying crustal provinces, providing information on horizontal and vertical variations of physical properties over province size zones, validating long wavelength anomalies, and isolating geomagnetic field removal problems.

Sonification of optical coherence tomography data and images

PubMed Central

Ahmad, Adeel; Adie, Steven G.; Wang, Morgan; Boppart, Stephen A.

2010-01-01

Sonification is the process of representing data as non-speech audio signals. In this manuscript, we describe the auditory presentation of OCT data and images. OCT acquisition rates frequently exceed our ability to visually analyze image-based data, and multi-sensory input may therefore facilitate rapid interpretation. This conversion will be especially valuable in time-sensitive surgical or diagnostic procedures. In these scenarios, auditory feedback can complement visual data without requiring the surgeon to constantly monitor the screen, or provide additional feedback in non-imaging procedures such as guided needle biopsies which use only axial-scan data. In this paper we present techniques to translate OCT data and images into sound based on the spatial and spatial frequency properties of the OCT data. Results obtained from parameter-mapped sonification of human adipose and tumor tissues are presented, indicating that audio feedback of OCT data may be useful for the interpretation of OCT images. PMID:20588846

A bird's eye view: the cognitive strategies of experts interpreting seismic profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bond, C. E.; Butler, R.

2012-12-01

Geoscience is perhaps unique in its reliance on incomplete datasets and building knowledge from their interpretation. This interpretation basis for the science is fundamental at all levels; from creation of a geological map to interpretation of remotely sensed data. To teach and understand better the uncertainties in dealing with incomplete data we need to understand the strategies individual practitioners deploy that make them effective interpreters. The nature of interpretation is such that the interpreter needs to use their cognitive ability in the analysis of the data to propose a sensible solution in their final output that is both consistent not only with the original data but also with other knowledge and understanding. In a series of experiments Bond et al. (2007, 2008, 2011, 2012) investigated the strategies and pitfalls of expert and non-expert interpretation of seismic images. These studies focused on large numbers of participants to provide a statistically sound basis for analysis of the results. The outcome of these experiments showed that techniques and strategies are more important than expert knowledge per se in developing successful interpretations. Experts are successful because of their application of these techniques. In a new set of experiments we have focused on a small number of experts to determine how they use their cognitive and reasoning skills, in the interpretation of 2D seismic profiles. Live video and practitioner commentary were used to track the evolving interpretation and to gain insight on their decision processes. The outputs of the study allow us to create an educational resource of expert interpretation through online video footage and commentary with associated further interpretation and analysis of the techniques and strategies employed. This resource will be of use to undergraduate, post-graduate, industry and academic professionals seeking to improve their seismic interpretation skills, develop reasoning strategies for dealing with incomplete datasets, and for assessing the uncertainty in these interpretations. Bond, C.E. et al. (2012). 'What makes an expert effective at interpreting seismic images?' Geology, 40, 75-78. Bond, C. E. et al. (2011). 'When there isn't a right answer: interpretation and reasoning, key skills for 21st century geoscience'. International Journal of Science Education, 33, 629-652. Bond, C. E. et al. (2008). 'Structural models: Optimizing risk analysis by understanding conceptual uncertainty'. First Break, 26, 65-71. Bond, C. E. et al., (2007). 'What do you think this is?: "Conceptual uncertainty" In geoscience interpretation'. GSA Today, 17, 4-10.

Cardiac imaging: working towards fully-automated machine analysis & interpretation

PubMed Central

Slomka, Piotr J; Dey, Damini; Sitek, Arkadiusz; Motwani, Manish; Berman, Daniel S; Germano, Guido

2017-01-01

Introduction Non-invasive imaging plays a critical role in managing patients with cardiovascular disease. Although subjective visual interpretation remains the clinical mainstay, quantitative analysis facilitates objective, evidence-based management, and advances in clinical research. This has driven developments in computing and software tools aimed at achieving fully automated image processing and quantitative analysis. In parallel, machine learning techniques have been used to rapidly integrate large amounts of clinical and quantitative imaging data to provide highly personalized individual patient-based conclusions. Areas covered This review summarizes recent advances in automated quantitative imaging in cardiology and describes the latest techniques which incorporate machine learning principles. The review focuses on the cardiac imaging techniques which are in wide clinical use. It also discusses key issues and obstacles for these tools to become utilized in mainstream clinical practice. Expert commentary Fully-automated processing and high-level computer interpretation of cardiac imaging are becoming a reality. Application of machine learning to the vast amounts of quantitative data generated per scan and integration with clinical data also facilitates a move to more patient-specific interpretation. These developments are unlikely to replace interpreting physicians but will provide them with highly accurate tools to detect disease, risk-stratify, and optimize patient-specific treatment. However, with each technological advance, we move further from human dependence and closer to fully-automated machine interpretation. PMID:28277804

Integrated use of surface geophysical methods for site characterization — A case study in North Kingstown, Rhode Island

USGS Publications Warehouse

Johnson, Carole D.; Lane, John W.; Brandon, William C.; Williams, Christine A.P.; White, Eric A.

2010-01-01

A suite of complementary, non‐invasive surface geophysical methods was used to assess their utility for site characterization in a pilot investigation at a former defense site in North Kingstown, Rhode Island. The methods included frequency‐domain electromagnetics (FDEM), ground‐penetrating radar (GPR), electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), and multi‐channel analysis of surface‐wave (MASW) seismic. The results of each method were compared to each other and to drive‐point data from the site. FDEM was used as a reconnaissance method to assess buried utilities and anthropogenic structures; to identify near‐surface changes in water chemistry related to conductive leachate from road‐salt storage; and to investigate a resistive signature possibly caused by groundwater discharge. Shallow anomalies observed in the GPR and ERT data were caused by near‐surface infrastructure and were consistent with anomalies observed in the FDEM data. Several parabolic reflectors were observed in the upper part of the GPR profiles, and a fairly continuous reflector that was interpreted as bedrock could be traced across the lower part of the profiles. MASW seismic data showed a sharp break in shear wave velocity at depth, which was interpreted as the overburden/bedrock interface. The MASW profile indicates the presence of a trough in the bedrock surface in the same location where the ERT data indicate lateral variations in resistivity. Depths to bedrock interpreted from the ERT, MASW, and GPR profiles were similar and consistent with the depths of refusal identified in the direct‐push wells. The interpretations of data collected using the individual methods yielded non‐unique solutions with considerable uncertainty. Integrated interpretation of the electrical, electromagnetic, and seismic geophysical profiles produced a more consistent and unique estimation of depth to bedrock that is consistent with ground‐truth data at the site. This test case shows that using complementary techniques that measure different properties can be more effective for site characterization than a single‐method investigation.

Characterization of major lithologic units underlying the lower American River using water-borne continuous resistivity profiling, Sacramento, California, June 2008

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ball, Lyndsay B.; Teeple, Andrew

2013-01-01

The levee system of the lower American River in Sacramento, California, is situated above a mixed lithology of alluvial deposits that range from clay to gravel. In addition, sand deposits related to hydraulic mining activities underlie the floodplain and are preferentially prone to scour during high-flow events. In contrast, sections of the American River channel have been observed to be scour resistant. In this study, the U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, explores the resistivity structure of the American River channel to characterize the extent and thickness of lithologic units that may impact the scour potential of the area. Likely lithologic structures are interpreted, but these interpretations are non-unique and cannot be directly related to scour potential. Additional geotechnical data would provide insightful data on the scour potential of certain lithologic units. Additional interpretation of the resistivity data with respect to these results may improve interpretations of lithology and scour potential throughout the American River channel and floodplain. Resistivity data were collected in three profiles along the American River using a water-borne continuous resistivity profiling technique. After processing and modeling these data, inverted resistivity profiles were used to make interpretations about the extent and thickness of possible lithologic units. In general, an intermittent high-resistivity layer likely indicative of sand or gravel deposits extends to a depth of around 30 feet (9 meters) and is underlain by a consistent low-resistivity layer that likely indicates a high-clay content unit that extends below the depth of investigation (60 feet or 18 meters). Immediately upstream of the Watt Avenue Bridge, the high-resistivity layer is absent, and the low-resistivity layer extends to the surface where a scour-resistant layer has been previously observed in the river bed.

Data selection techniques in the interpretation of MAGSAT data over Australia

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, B. D.; Dampney, C. N. G.

1983-01-01

The MAGSAT data require critical selection in order to produce a self-consistent data set suitable for map construction and subsequent interpretation. Interactive data selection techniques are described which involve the use of a special-purpose profile-oriented data base and a colour graphics display. The careful application of these data selection techniques permits validation every data value and ensures that the best possible self-consistent data set is being used to construct the maps of the magnetic field measured at satellite altitudes over Australia.

Land use/land cover mapping (1:25000) of Taiwan, Republic of China by automated multispectral interpretation of LANDSAT imagery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sung, Q. C.; Miller, L. D.

1977-01-01

Three methods were tested for collection of the training sets needed to establish the spectral signatures of the land uses/land covers sought due to the difficulties of retrospective collection of representative ground control data. Computer preprocessing techniques applied to the digital images to improve the final classification results were geometric corrections, spectral band or image ratioing and statistical cleaning of the representative training sets. A minimal level of statistical verification was made based upon the comparisons between the airphoto estimates and the classification results. The verifications provided a further support to the selection of MSS band 5 and 7. It also indicated that the maximum likelihood ratioing technique can achieve more agreeable classification results with the airphoto estimates than the stepwise discriminant analysis.

Correlation mapping for visualizing propagation of pulsatile CSF motion in intracranial space based on magnetic resonance phase contrast velocity images: preliminary results.

PubMed

Yatsushiro, Satoshi; Hirayama, Akihiro; Matsumae, Mitsunori; Kajiwara, Nao; Abdullah, Afnizanfaizal; Kuroda, Kagayaki

2014-01-01

Correlation time mapping based on magnetic resonance (MR) velocimetry has been applied to pulsatile cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) motion to visualize the pressure transmission between CSF at different locations and/or between CSF and arterial blood flow. Healthy volunteer experiments demonstrated that the technique exhibited transmitting pulsatile CSF motion from CSF space in the vicinity of blood vessels with short delay and relatively high correlation coefficients. Patient and healthy volunteer experiments indicated that the properties of CSF motion were different from the healthy volunteers. Resultant images in healthy volunteers implied that there were slight individual difference in the CSF driving source locations. Clinical interpretation for these preliminary results is required to apply the present technique for classifying status of hydrocephalus.

Interpretive Responses in Reading History and Biology: An Exploratory Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fareed, Ahmed A.

1971-01-01

Explores the interpretive processes of 12 sixth-grade pupils, using the recorded interview technique. Concludes that readers use the processes of reproduction, inquiry, emotional reaction, rational judgment, appreciation, association, and illumination, and that the nature of the reading material influences the types of interpretive responses. (VJ)

Simulated Screens of DNA Encoded Libraries: The Potential Influence of Chemical Synthesis Fidelity on Interpretation of Structure-Activity Relationships.

PubMed

Satz, Alexander L

2016-07-11

Simulated screening of DNA encoded libraries indicates that the presence of truncated byproducts complicates the relationship between library member enrichment and equilibrium association constant (these truncates result from incomplete chemical reactions during library synthesis). Further, simulations indicate that some patterns observed in reported experimental data may result from the presence of truncated byproducts in the library mixture and not structure-activity relationships. Potential experimental methods of minimizing the presence of truncates are assessed via simulation; the relationship between enrichment and equilibrium association constant for libraries of differing purities is investigated. Data aggregation techniques are demonstrated that allow for more accurate analysis of screening results, in particular when the screened library contains significant quantities of truncates.

Statistical normalization techniques for magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Shinohara, Russell T; Sweeney, Elizabeth M; Goldsmith, Jeff; Shiee, Navid; Mateen, Farrah J; Calabresi, Peter A; Jarso, Samson; Pham, Dzung L; Reich, Daniel S; Crainiceanu, Ciprian M

2014-01-01

While computed tomography and other imaging techniques are measured in absolute units with physical meaning, magnetic resonance images are expressed in arbitrary units that are difficult to interpret and differ between study visits and subjects. Much work in the image processing literature on intensity normalization has focused on histogram matching and other histogram mapping techniques, with little emphasis on normalizing images to have biologically interpretable units. Furthermore, there are no formalized principles or goals for the crucial comparability of image intensities within and across subjects. To address this, we propose a set of criteria necessary for the normalization of images. We further propose simple and robust biologically motivated normalization techniques for multisequence brain imaging that have the same interpretation across acquisitions and satisfy the proposed criteria. We compare the performance of different normalization methods in thousands of images of patients with Alzheimer's disease, hundreds of patients with multiple sclerosis, and hundreds of healthy subjects obtained in several different studies at dozens of imaging centers.

Evaluating ecological equivalence of created marshes: comparing structural indicators with stable isotope indicators of blue crab trophic support

USGS Publications Warehouse

Llewellyn, Chris; LaPeyre, Megan K.

2010-01-01

This study sought to examine ecological equivalence of created marshes of different ages using traditional structural measures of equivalence, and tested a relatively novel approach using stable isotopes as a measure of functional equivalence. We compared soil properties, vegetation, nekton communities, and δ13C and δ15N isotope values of blue crab muscle and hepatopancreas tissue and primary producers at created (5-24 years old) and paired reference marshes in SW Louisiana. Paired contrasts indicated that created and reference marshes supported equivalent plant and nekton communities, but differed in soil characteristics. Stable isotope indicators examining blue crab food web support found that the older marshes (8 years+) were characterized by comparable trophic diversity and breadth compared to their reference marshes. Interpretation of results for the youngest site was confounded by the fact that the paired reference, which represented the desired end goal of restoration, contained a greater diversity of basal resources. Stable isotope techniques may give coastal managers an additional tool to assess functional equivalency of created marshes, as measured by trophic support, but may be limited to comparisons of marshes with similar vegetative communities and basal resources, or require the development of robust standardization techniques.

Spatial delineation, fluid-lithology characterization, and petrophysical modeling of deepwater Gulf of Mexico reservoirs though joint AVA deterministic and stochastic inversion of three-dimensional partially-stacked seismic amplitude data and well logs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Contreras, Arturo Javier

This dissertation describes a novel Amplitude-versus-Angle (AVA) inversion methodology to quantitatively integrate pre-stack seismic data, well logs, geologic data, and geostatistical information. Deterministic and stochastic inversion algorithms are used to characterize flow units of deepwater reservoirs located in the central Gulf of Mexico. A detailed fluid/lithology sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the nature of AVA effects in the study area. Standard AVA analysis indicates that the shale/sand interface represented by the top of the hydrocarbon-bearing turbidite deposits generate typical Class III AVA responses. Layer-dependent Biot-Gassmann analysis shows significant sensitivity of the P-wave velocity and density to fluid substitution, indicating that presence of light saturating fluids clearly affects the elastic response of sands. Accordingly, AVA deterministic and stochastic inversions, which combine the advantages of AVA analysis with those of inversion, have provided quantitative information about the lateral continuity of the turbidite reservoirs based on the interpretation of inverted acoustic properties and fluid-sensitive modulus attributes (P-Impedance, S-Impedance, density, and LambdaRho, in the case of deterministic inversion; and P-velocity, S-velocity, density, and lithotype (sand-shale) distributions, in the case of stochastic inversion). The quantitative use of rock/fluid information through AVA seismic data, coupled with the implementation of co-simulation via lithotype-dependent multidimensional joint probability distributions of acoustic/petrophysical properties, provides accurate 3D models of petrophysical properties such as porosity, permeability, and water saturation. Pre-stack stochastic inversion provides more realistic and higher-resolution results than those obtained from analogous deterministic techniques. Furthermore, 3D petrophysical models can be more accurately co-simulated from AVA stochastic inversion results. By combining AVA sensitivity analysis techniques with pre-stack stochastic inversion, geologic data, and awareness of inversion pitfalls, it is possible to substantially reduce the risk in exploration and development of conventional and non-conventional reservoirs. From the final integration of deterministic and stochastic inversion results with depositional models and analogous examples, the M-series reservoirs have been interpreted as stacked terminal turbidite lobes within an overall fan complex (the Miocene MCAVLU Submarine Fan System); this interpretation is consistent with previous core data interpretations and regional stratigraphic/depositional studies.

Mammographic interpretation training in the UK: current difficulties and future outlook

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yan; Gale, Alastair G.; Scott, Hazel

2009-02-01

In the UK, most mammographic interpretation training needs to be undertaken where there is a mammo-alternator or other suitable light box; consequently limiting the time and places where training can take place. However, the gradual introduction of digital mammography is opening up new opportunities of providing such training without the restriction of current viewing devices. Whilst high-resolution monitors in appropriate viewing environments are de rigour for actual reporting; advantages of the digital image over film are in the flexibility of training opportunity afforded, e.g. training whenever, wherever suits the individual. A previous study indicated the possible potential for reporting mammographic cases utilising handheld devices with suitable interaction techniques. In a pilot study, a group of mammographers (n=4) were questioned in semi-structured interviews in order to help establish current UK film-readers' training profile. On the basis of the pilot study data, 109 Breast Screening Units (601 film readers) were approached to complete a structured questionnaire in order to establish the potential role of smaller computer devices in mammographic interpretation training (given the use of digital mammography). Subsequently, a study of radiologists' visual search behaviour in digital screening has begun. This has highlighted different image manipulations than found in structured experiments in this area and poses new challenges for visualising the inspection process. Overall the results indicate that using different display sizes for training is possible but is also a challenging task requiring novel interaction approaches.

When cultures clash: a case study of the Texaco takeover of Getty Oil and the impact of acculturation on the acquired firm

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

Altendorf, D.M.

1986-01-01

Historical surveys of merger and acquisition performance indicate that corporate combinations often do not result in the sought after financial success. An ethnographic case study of the Texaco takeover of Getty Oil was undertaken. Based on the in-depth open-ended interviews, field notes, historical accounts, corporate documents, and organizational symbols, data were analyzed using qualitative techniques explicated by Geertz and Glaser and Strauss. The analysis explored cross cultural contact, employee interpretations resulting in related behavioral and performance outcomes, and the factors influencing the type of acculturation observed. Theoretical properties emerged from descriptive accounts. An integrated theory was developed suggesting that themore » form of acculturation that occurs in the combination of two or more firms is a direct consequence of culture differences and the interpretations that the employees make of these differences. Different occurrences - events, strategies, and activities - contributed to corporate culture clash and organizational change. Results also indicated that how meaning is created and managed affects cross cultural contact, employee assessments, and acculturation. Related propositions were generated and implications for future research discussed.« less

Geology and surface geochemistry of the Roosevelt Springs Known Geothermal Resource Area, Utah

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

Lovell, J.S.; Meyer, W.T.; Atkinson, D.J.

1980-01-01

Available data on the Roosevelt area were synthesized to determine the spatial arrangement of the rocks, and the patterns of mass and energy flow within them. The resulting model lead to a new interpretation of the geothermal system, and provided ground truth for evaluating the application of soil geochemistry to exploration for concealed geothermal fields. Preliminary geochemical studies comparing the surface microlayer to conventional soil sampling methods indicated both practical and chemical advantages for the surface microlayer technique, which was particularly evident in the case of As, Sb and Cs. Subsequent multi-element analyses of surface microlayer samples collected over anmore » area of 100 square miles were processed to produce single element contour maps for 41 chemical parameters. Computer manipulation of the multi-element data using R-mode factor analysis provided the optimum method of interpretation of the surface microlayer data. A trace element association of As, Sb and Cs in the surface microlayer provided the best indication of the leakage of geothermal solutions to the surface, while regional mercury trends may reflect the presence of a mercury vapour anomaly above a concealed heat source.« less

Interpreting Tools by Imagining Their Uses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kwan, Alistair

2017-01-01

By prompting imagined or actual bodily experience, we can guide interpretation of tools to emphasize the action that those tools perform. The technique requires little more than an extension from looking at an object, to imagining how the body engages with it, perhaps even trying out those specialist postures, to nourish an interpretation centered…

Understanding the Effects of Cognitive Dissonance during Interpretation: Implications for "Hands-On" Programming.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morgan, Mark

1996-01-01

Describes a field experiment that was designed to test the effects of three different interpretive programs on students' attitudes toward live, nonpoisonous snakes. One of the treatments measured the effectiveness of using "hands-on" interpretive techniques. Direct contact with snakes improved students' attitudes but only slightly. Females'…

Applications of the VLF induction method for studying some volcanic processes of Kilauea volcano, Hawaii

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zablocki, C.J.

1978-01-01

The very low-frequency (VLF) induction method has found exceptional utility in studying various volcanic processes of Kilauea volcano, Hawaii because: (1) significant anomalies result exclusively from ionically conductive magma or still-hot intrusions (> 800??C) and the attendant electrolytically conductive hot groundwater; (2) basalt flows forming the bulk of Kilauea have very high resistivities at shallow depths that result in low geologic noise levels and relatively deep depths of investigation (???100 m); and (3) the azimuths to two of the usable transmitters (NLK and NPM) are aligned favorably with most of the principal geologic features. Measurements of the tilt angle and ellipticity of the polarization ellipse of the magnetic field, using a simple, hand-held receiver, have been used to: (1) delineate the lateral extent of shallow, partially solidified lava lakes, active lava tubes, and recent intrusive dikes; (2) obtain an indication of the attitude of some recent dikes; (3) show that many eruptive fissures cool faster than their intrusive counterparts; (4) show that some fumarolic areas are underlain by shallow, highly altered, and conductive zones; and (5) provide control information for interpreting data obtained with other electrical techniques. Complementary measurements of scalar apparent resistivity and surface impedance phase, using a new attachment for the VLF receiver, have substantially increased the utility of VLF studies in Kilauea. They provide better lateral resolution of conductors and reduce the ambiguity in interpretation. Notwithstanding recent advances in theoretical modeling techniques, the excellent quality of some of the data warrants extension of interpretive techniques, particularly for quantitatively characterizing the configuration and conductivity of small-dimension bodies. These VLF induction methods should have wide application to studies of active volcanic regions in other parts of the world and could provide some insights into the workings of larger-scaled geothermal systems. ?? 1978.

Functional programming interpreter. M. S. thesis

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

Robison, A.D.

1987-03-01

Functional Programming (FP) sup BAC87 is an alternative to conventional imperative programming languages. This thesis describes an FP interpreter implementation. Superficially, FP appears to be a simple, but very inefficient language. Its simplicity, however, allows it to be interpreted quickly. Much of the inefficiency can be removed by simple interpreter techniques. This thesis describes the Illinois Functional Programming (IFP) interpreter, an interactive functional programming implementation which runs under both MS-DOS and UNIX. The IFP interpreter allows functions to be created, executed, and debugged in an environment very similar to UNIX. IFP's speed is competitive with other interpreted languages such asmore » BASIC.« less

Interpreting Popov criteria in Lure´ systems with complex scaling stability analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, J.

2018-06-01

The paper presents a novel frequency-domain interpretation of Popov criteria for absolute stability in Lure´ systems by means of what we call complex scaling stability analysis. The complex scaling technique is developed for exponential/asymptotic stability in LTI feedback systems, which dispenses open-loop poles distribution, contour/locus orientation and prior frequency sweeping. Exploiting the technique for alternatively revealing positive realness of transfer functions, re-interpreting Popov criteria is explicated. More specifically, the suggested frequency-domain stability conditions are conformable both in scalar and multivariable cases, and can be implemented either graphically with locus plotting or numerically without; in particular, the latter is suitable as a design tool with auxiliary parameter freedom. The interpretation also reveals further frequency-domain facts about Lure´ systems. Numerical examples are included to illustrate the main results.

Dreaming woman: Image, place, and the aesthetics of exile.

PubMed

Greenspan, Rachel

2017-08-01

Looking closely at an Argentine dream interpretation column published in a popular women's magazine from 1948 to 1951, this article examines the role of the dream image in shaping psychoanalytic discourse on femininity and national identity. The column, 'Psychoanalysis Will Help You,' emerged during Juan Domingo Perón's first presidency, featuring verbal interpretations written under the pen name 'Richard Rest,' as well as surreal photomontages by Grete Stern, a German-born, Bauhaus-trained photographer living in exile since 1936. While the column's Jungian text encourages readers' adaptation to the external reality of their social situation, Stern's droll images emphasize the disjuncture between subject and environment, exposing tensions between the experience of exile and the Peronist mission to consolidate an Argentine national identity. Experimenting formally with European avant-garde techniques, Stern presents femininity and nation as conflictive imaginary configurations. This theme resurfaces at the 2013 Venice Biennale, where Nicola Costantino's multimedia installation Eva - Argentina: A Contemporary Metaphor was exhibited alongside Carl Jung's Red Book. Formal contrasts between Stern's use of photomontage, Costantino's projection technique, and Jung's theory of mandala symbolism indicate the divergent ways in which their artwork posits the therapeutic function of the dream image, as well as the role of aesthetic production in psychoanalytic care. Copyright © 2017 Institute of Psychoanalysis.

Inventory of forest and rangeland and detection of forest stress

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Heller, R. C. (Principal Investigator); Aldrich, R. C.; Weber, F. P.; Driscoll, R. S.

1973-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. Three small scales of CIR photography were interpreted to determine the number of bark beetle-killed trees detected in each of six spot size categories. A procedure was developed to predict the probability of detecting spots in each spot size category and in turn to estimate the number of infestations and dead trees even on the smallest scale. Statistical tests of the data indicated that the linear model did not fit the data and that other models should be tested. As a result of daily monitoring of Black Hills radiometric instruments it was possible to show the spectral energy relationships in the ponderosa pine ecosystems over time. These data have been helpful for comparison with radiance signatures extracted from ERTS-1 bulk 70mm using precision microdensitometry. Effects of atmospheric interference were shown by a 30 percent increase in scene radiance on channel 4 of the satellite imagery. A calibration and scaling technique was developed and tested to enable interpretation of ERTS-1 bulk and precision data for the Atlanta test site. The technique includes calibration of a photographic copy system for the I2S image combiner and the production of scaled overlays of grid coordinate systems, study area locations, and outline maps of county boundaries.

Multiattribute evaluation of regional cotton variety trials.

PubMed

Basford, K E; Kroonenberg, P M; Delacy, I H; Lawrence, P K

1990-02-01

The Australian Cotton Cultivar Trials (ACCT) are designed to investigate various cotton [Gossypium hirsutum (L.)] lines in several locations in New South Wales and Queensland each year. If these lines are to be assessed by the simultaneous use of yield and lint quality data, then a multivariate technique applicable to three-way data is desirable. Two such techniques, the mixture maximum likelihood method of clustering and three-mode principal component analysis, are described and used to analyze these data. Applied together, the methods enhance each other's usefulness in interpreting the information on the line response patterns across the locations. The methods provide a good integration of the responses across environments of the entries for the different attributes in the trials. For instance, using yield as the sole criterion, the excellence of the namcala and coker group for quality is overlooked. The analyses point to a decision in favor of either high yields of moderate to good quality lint or moderate yield but superior lint quality. The decisions indicated by the methods confirmed the selections made by the plant breeders. The procedures provide a less subjective, relatively easy to apply and interpret analytical method of describing the patterns of performance and associations in complex multiattribute and multilocation trials. This should lead to more efficient selection among lines in such trials.

Interpretation reduces ecological impacts of visitors to world heritage site.

PubMed

Littlefair, Carolyn; Buckley, Ralf

2008-07-01

Minimal-impact interpretation is widely used to reduce the ecological impacts of visitors to protected areas. We tested whether verbal appeals and/or role-model demonstrations of minimal-impact behavior by a trained guide reduced noise, litter, and trampling impacts on hiking trails in a subtropical rainforest. Interpretation did reduce impacts significantly. Different interpretive techniques were more effective for different impacts. The experimental groups were mature, well-educated professionals; interpretation may differ in effectiveness for different visitors. Interpretation by skilled guides can indeed reduce visitor impacts in protected areas, especially if role modeling is combined with verbal appeals.

The 'robustness' of vocabulary intervention in the public schools: targets and techniques employed in speech-language therapy.

PubMed

Justice, Laura M; Schmitt, Mary Beth; Murphy, Kimberly A; Pratt, Amy; Biancone, Tricia

2014-01-01

This study examined vocabulary intervention-in terms of targets and techniques-for children with language impairment receiving speech-language therapy in public schools (i.e., non-fee-paying schools) in the United States. Vocabulary treatments and targets were examined with respect to their alignment with the empirically validated practice of rich vocabulary intervention. Participants were forty-eight 5-7-year-old children participating in kindergarten or the first-grade year of school, all of whom had vocabulary-specific goals on their individualized education programmes. Two therapy sessions per child were coded to determine what vocabulary words were being directly targeted and what techniques were used for each. Study findings showed that the majority of words directly targeted during therapy were lower-level basic vocabulary words (87%) and very few (1%) were academically relevant. On average, three techniques were used per word to promote deep understanding. Interpreting findings against empirical descriptions of rich vocabulary intervention indicates that children were exposed to some but not all aspects of this empirically supported practice. © 2013 Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

The effect of a cannula milk sampling technique on the microbiological diagnosis of bovine mastitis.

PubMed

Friman, M; Hiitiö, H; Niemi, M; Holopainen, J; Pyörälä, S; Simojoki, H

2017-08-01

Two methods of collecting milk samples from mastitic bovine mammary quarters were compared. Samples were taken in a consistent order in which standard aseptic technique sampling was done first, followed by insertion of a sterile cannula through the teat canal and collection of a second sample. Microbiological results of those two sampling techniques were compared. Milk samples were analysed using multiplex real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The cannula technique produced a reduced number of microbial species or groups of species per sample compared with conventional sampling. Staphylococcus spp. were the most common species identified and were detected more often during conventional sampling than with cannula sampling. Staphylococcus spp. identified in milk samples could also have originated from the teat canal without being present in the milk. The number of samples positive for Trueperella pyogenes or yeasts in the conventional samples was twice as high as in the cannula samples, indicating that the presence of Trueperella pyogenes and yeast species should not necessarily be interpreted as being the causative agents of bovine intra-mammary infections (IMI). Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Surface mapping of spike potential fields: experienced EEGers vs. computerized analysis.

PubMed

Koszer, S; Moshé, S L; Legatt, A D; Shinnar, S; Goldensohn, E S

1996-03-01

An EEG epileptiform spike focus recorded with scalp electrodes is clinically localized by visual estimation of the point of maximal voltage and the distribution of its surrounding voltages. We compared such estimated voltage maps, drawn by experienced electroencephalographers (EEGers), with a computerized spline interpolation technique employed in the commercially available software package FOCUS. Twenty-two spikes were recorded from 15 patients during long-term continuous EEG monitoring. Maps of voltage distribution from the 28 electrodes surrounding the points of maximum change in slope (the spike maximum) were constructed by the EEGer. The same points of maximum spike and voltage distributions at the 29 electrodes were mapped by computerized spline interpolation and a comparison between the two methods was made. The findings indicate that the computerized spline mapping techniques employed in FOCUS construct voltage maps with similar maxima and distributions as the maps created by experienced EEGers. The dynamics of spike activity, including correlations, are better visualized using the computerized technique than by manual interpretation alone. Its use as a technique for spike localization is accurate and adds information of potential clinical value.

Application of conventional and advanced techniques for the interpretation of LANDSAT 2 images for the study of linears in the Friuli earthquake area

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cardamone, P.; Lechi, G. M.; Cavallin, A.; Marino, C. M.; Zanferrari, A.

1977-01-01

The results obtained in the study of linears derived from the analysis of LANDSAT 2 images recorded over Friuli during 1975 are described. Particular attention is devoted to the comparison of several passes in different bands, scales and photographic supports. Moreover reference is made to aerial photographic interpretation in selected sites and to the information obtained by laser techniques.

Applied photo interpretation for airbrush cartography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Inge, J. L.; Bridges, P. M.

1976-01-01

Lunar and planetary exploration has required the development of new techniques of cartographic portrayal. Conventional photo-interpretive methods employing size, shape, shadow, tone, pattern, and texture are applied to computer-processed satellite television images. Comparative judgements are affected by illumination, resolution, variations in surface coloration, and transmission or processing artifacts. The portrayal of tonal densities in a relief illustration is performed using a unique airbrush technique derived from hill-shading of contour maps. The control of tone and line quality is essential because the mid-gray to dark tone densities must be finalized prior to the addition of highlights to the drawing. This is done with an electric eraser until the drawing is completed. The drawing density is controlled with a reflectance-reading densitometer to meet certain density guidelines. The versatility of planetary photo-interpretive methods for airbrushed map portrayals is demonstrated by the application of these techniques to the synthesis of nonrelief data.

Cordilleran front range structural features in northwest Montana interpreted from vintage seismic reflection data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Porter, Mason C.; Rutherford, Bradley S.; Speece, Marvin A.; Mosolf, Jesse G.

2016-04-01

Industry seismic reflection data spanning the Rocky Mountain Cordillera front ranges of northwest Montana were reprocessed and interpreted in this study. Five seismic profiles represent 160 km of deep reflection data collected in 1983 that span the eastern Purcell anticlinorium, Rocky Mountain Trench (RMT), Rocky Mountain Basal Décollement (RMBD), and Lewis thrust. The data were reprocessed using modern techniques including refraction statics, pre-stack time migration (PSTM), and pre- and post-stack depth migration. Results indicate the RMBD is 8-13 km below the Earth's surface and dip 3-10° west. Evidence for the autochthonous Mesoproterozoic Belt and basal Cambrian rocks beneath the RMBD is present in all of the profiles and appears to extend east of the RMT. The Lewis thrust was identified in the seismic profiles and appears to sole into the RMBD east of the RMT. The RMT fault system has a dip displacement of 3-4 km and forms a half graben filled with 1 km of unconsolidated Tertiary sedimentary deposits. The RMT and adjacent Flathead fault systems are interpreted to be structurally linked and may represent a synthetic, en echelon fault system.

The use of piezocone tests for high-resolution stratigraphy of Quaternary sediment sequences in the Brazilian coast.

PubMed

de Mio, Giuliano; Giacheti, Heraldo L

2007-03-01

Correlations between mapping units of costal sedimentary basin and interpretation of piezocone test results are presented and discussed based on examples from Caravelas strandplain, (State of Bahia), Paranaguá (State of Paraná) and Guarujá bays (State of São Paulo), Brazil. Recognizing that the sedimentary environment was mainly controlled by sea level fluctuations led to the interpretation of transgressive and regressive sedimentary sequences, which is in a good agreement with the sea level fluctuation curves currently accepted for these regions. The interpretation of piezocone test results shows that the sedimentary sequences of Caravelas and Guarujá sites are similar and they have a good correlation to the sea level fluctuation curve accepted for Salvador region, State of Bahia. On the other hand, the piezocone test results from Paranaguá site indicate a different sedimentary sequence from the previous ones, relating to the sea level fluctuation curve accepted for Paranaguá region. The results show the high applicability of piezocone testing for stratigraphical logging and suggest that it is possible to integrate it with other current techniques used for paleo-environmental studies in Brazil, in accordance with recent approaches used in international research on the subject.

Progress in SPECT/CT imaging of prostate cancer.

PubMed

Seo, Youngho; Franc, Benjamin L; Hawkins, Randall A; Wong, Kenneth H; Hasegawa, Bruce H

2006-08-01

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer (other than skin cancer) among men in the United States. Although prostate cancer is one of the few cancers that grow so slowly that it may never threaten the lives of some patients, it can be lethal once metastasized. Indium-111 capromab pendetide (ProstaScint, Cytogen Corporation, Princeton, NJ) imaging is indicated for staging and recurrence detection of the disease, and is particularly useful to determine whether or not the disease has spread to distant metastatic sites. However, the interpretation of 111In-capromab pendetide is challenging without correlated structural information mostly because the radiopharmaceutical demonstrates nonspecific uptake in the normal vasculature, bowel, bone marrow, and the prostate gland. We developed an improved method of imaging and localizing 111In-Capromab pendetide using a SPECT/CT imaging system. The specific goals included: i) development and application of a novel iterative SPECT reconstruction algorithm that utilizes a priori information from coregistered CT; and ii) assessment of clinical impact of adding SPECT/CT for prostate cancer imaging with capromab pendetide utilizing the standard and novel reconstruction techniques. Patient imaging studies with capromab pendetide were performed from 1999 to 2004 using two different SPECT/CT scanners, a prototype SPECT/CT system and a commercial SPECT/CT system (Discovery VH, GE Healthcare, Waukesha, WI). SPECT projection data from both systems were reconstructed using an experimental iterative algorithm that compensates for both photon attenuation and collimator blurring. In addition, the data obtained from the commercial system were reconstructed with attenuation correction using an OSEM reconstruction supplied by the camera manufacturer for routine clinical interpretation. For 12 sets of patient data, SPECT images reconstructed using the experimental algorithm were interpreted separately and compared with interpretation of images obtained using the standard reconstruction technique. The experimental reconstruction algorithm improved spatial resolution, reduced streak artifacts, and yielded a better correlation with anatomic details of CT in comparison to conventional reconstruction methods (e.g., filtered back-projection or OSEM with attenuation correction only). Images produced with the experimental algorithm produced a subjective improvement in the confidence of interpretation for 11 of 12 studies. There were also changes in interpretations for 4 of 12 studies although the changes were not sufficient to alter prognosis or the patient treatment plan.

What Do the Numbers Say? Clarifying Our Interpretation of Carbon Use Efficiency Data from Soil.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geyer, K.; Dijkstra, P.; Sinsabaugh, R. L.; Frey, S. D.

2017-12-01

Carbon use efficiency (CUE) is the proportion of carbon resources that a microorganism commits towards cellular growth and thus affects the dynamics of soil organic matter pools. While numerous approaches exist for estimating CUE, no attempts have been made to simultaneously compare methods and reconcile their inherent biases. Such work is necessary to partition the observed variation in CUE estimates (commonly between 0.3 - 0.7) as biological or technical in origin. Here we review our results from experimental work aimed at comparing both traditional and emerging CUE techniques. Soil from the Harvard Forest Long Term Ecological Research site in Massachusetts, USA, was amended with 13C-glucose and 18O-water in laboratory mesocosms and monitored for changing rates of soil dissolved organic carbon (DOC) uptake, respiration (R), microbial biomass (MBC) production, DNA synthesis, and heat (Q) flux over 72 hrs. Three CUE estimates were generated from this data: 1) Δ13MBC/(Δ13MBC+ 13R), 2) Δ18DNA/(Δ18DNA + R), 3) Q/R. CUE was also measured via two indirect techniques: metabolic flux modeling and stoichiometric modeling. Results indicate that the 18O technique is able to discern gross growth of soil microbes while the 13C technique indicates net growth. As a result, 18O-based CUE remains unchanged ( 0.45) for the incubation duration at low amendment rates (0.0 and 0.05 mg glucose-C/g) while 13C-based CUE declines with time (0.75 to 0.5). The 13C technique likely overestimates CUE because the numerator (Δ13MBC) integrates any label (whether or not destined for growth) residing within the cell. High amendment rates (2.0 mg glucose-C/g) cause dramatic declines in 18O- and 13C-based CUE for the first 24 hr of incubation, but neither modeling approach was able to detect these dynamics. In summary, our results suggest that 13C-based estimates of CUE are best interpreted as net changes in the residence of labeled substrate within MBC pools while 18O-based estimates directly capture gross growth dynamics. Metabolic flux modeling and stoichiometric modeling appear to be suited for conditions of steady-state MBC only, where they approximate the CUE magnitude of the 13C- and 18O-based approaches, respectively.

A new false color composite technique for dust enhancement and point source determination in Middle East

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karimi, Khadijeh; Taheri Shahraiyni, Hamid; Habibi Nokhandan, Majid; Hafezi Moghaddas, Naser; Sanaeifar, Melika

2011-11-01

The dust storm happens in the Middle East with very high frequency. According to the dust storm effects, it is vital to study on the dust storms in the Middle East. The first step toward the study on dust storm is the enhancement of dust storms and determination of the point sources. In this paper, a new false color composite (FCC) map for the dust storm enhancement and point sources determination in the Middle East has been developed. The 28 Terra-MODIS images in 2008 and 2009 were utilized in this study. We tried to replace the Red, Green and Blue bands in RGB maps with the bands or maps that enhance the dust storms. Hence, famous indices for dust storm detection (NDDI, D and BTD) were generated using the different bands of MODIS images. These indices with some bands of MODIS were utilized for FCC map generation with different combinations. Among the different combinations, four better FCC maps were selected and these four FCC are compared using visual interpretation. The results of visual interpretations showed that the best FCC map for enhancement of dust storm in the middle east is an especial combination of the three indices (Red: D, Green: BTD and Blue: NDDI). Therefore, we utilized of this new FCC method for the enhancement of dust storms and determination of point sources in Middle East.

Interpreting benthic oxygen levels in mudrocks: A new approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wignall, Paul B.; Myers, Keith J.

1988-05-01

Quantified paleoecology and gamma-ray spectrometry have been applied in the analysis of the Kimmeridge Clay, a highly organic-rich British Jurassic mudrock. Decreasing benthic oxygen trends are reflected in decreasing species richness and dominance-diversity values. Similarly, the degree of fragmentation of the benthos reflects the benthic energy levels and covaries with benthic oxygen. The calculation of authigenic uranium values from data gathered by gamma-ray spectrometry shows enrichment in more oxygen-deficient environments. The good correlation between the independently derived paleoecological and authigenic U data indicates the importance of these techniques in environmental analysis of marine petroleum source rocks.

Optical properties and progressive sterical hindering in pyridinium phenoxides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boeglin, A.; Barsella, A.; Fort, A.; Mançois, F.; Rodriguez, V.; Diemer, V.; Chaumeil, H.; Defoin, A.; Jacques, P.; Carré, C.

2007-07-01

Pyridinium phenoxides are model compounds associating large dipole moments with high optical nonlinearities. A progression of sterically hindered forms of such zwitterions has been synthesized in order to investigate their structure/property relationships. Their UV-vis absorption in acetonitrile has been analyzed as a function of concentration in order to assess the presence of aggregates and the level of protonation. The quadratic optical properties have been measured by the EFISH and hyper-Rayleigh techniques and are interpreted via semi-empirical calculations. The solvation model used leads to results that agree with our experimental findings indicating an increased response for intermediate twist angles.

Facilitating the exploitation of ERTS imagery using snow enhancement techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wobber, F. J. (Principal Investigator); Martin, K. R.; Amato, R. V.

1973-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. Detection and analysis of fracture systems can be more effectively conducted utilizing snow cover as an enhancement tool. From analysis within the Great Barrington Test Site it appears that the use of aeromagnetic data effectively supplements lineament data acquired using ERTS imagery. Coincidence of lineaments derived from aeromagnetics with lineaments interpreted from ERTS imagery apparently indicate the presence of mineralized fracture systems and dikes. Utilizing both tools can increase the speed and efficiency of mineral exploration and geological mapping in areas where bedrock is obscured by a thick unconsolidated sediment cover.

Optimal use of electrophysiological indicators of muscular effort and fatigue

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Updike, O. L.

1981-01-01

Electromyograms (EMG) from working muscles convey information on effort and fatigue. Their application, e.g., to assess the demands of vehicle control tasks, is complicated by the cooperative action of sets of muscles, by both intrinsic and imposed filtering, and by numerous other sources of variation. Fourier analyses of these noise like signals offer one approach to interpretation; downward spectral shifts accompany fatigue. Techniques are being sought (in both time and frequency domains) for further condensing the wideband EMG signals, while retaining essential information, into a concise 'state vector' usable in comparing control system designs.

Characteristics of the optical radiation from Kaufman thrusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Milder, N. L.; Sovey, J. S.

1971-01-01

The optical radiation from plasma discharges of electron-bombardment mercury-ion thrusters was investigated. Spectrographic measurements indicated that the discharge was composed primarily of mercury atoms and singly charged ions. Excitation spectra of doubly charged mercury ions was measured to obtain the fraction of such ions in the discharge. Accomplishments of spectroscopic measurements of a hollow cathode thruster included the identification of two diagnostic lines in the mercury spectrum and the interpretation of the spectral amplitudes in terms of a superposition of primary and Maxwellian electron distributions. Potential application of optical techniques to thruster control applications was also suggested by the measurements.

How to assess intestinal viability during surgery: A review of techniques

PubMed Central

Urbanavičius, Linas; Pattyn, Piet; Van de Putte, Dirk; Venskutonis, Donatas

2011-01-01

Objective and quantitative intraoperative methods of bowel viability assessment are essential in gastrointestinal surgery. Exact determination of the borderline of the viable bowel with the help of an objective test could result in a decrease of postoperative ischemic complications. An accurate, reproducible and cost effective method is desirable in every operating theater dealing with abdominal operations. Numerous techniques assessing various parameters of intestinal viability are described by the studies. However, there is no consensus about their clinical use. To evaluate the available methods, a systematic search of the English literature was performed. Virtues and drawbacks of the techniques and possibilities of clinical application are reviewed. Valuable parameters related to postoperative intestinal anastomotic or stoma complications are analyzed. Important issues in the measurement and interpretation of bowel viability are discussed. To date, only a few methods are applicable in surgical practice. Further studies are needed to determine the limiting values of intestinal tissue oxygenation and flow indicative of ischemic complications and to standardize the methods. PMID:21666808

Image processing developments and applications for water quality monitoring and trophic state determination

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Blackwell, R. J.

1982-01-01

Remote sensing data analysis of water quality monitoring is evaluated. Data anaysis and image processing techniques are applied to LANDSAT remote sensing data to produce an effective operational tool for lake water quality surveying and monitoring. Digital image processing and analysis techniques were designed, developed, tested, and applied to LANDSAT multispectral scanner (MSS) data and conventional surface acquired data. Utilization of these techniques facilitates the surveying and monitoring of large numbers of lakes in an operational manner. Supervised multispectral classification, when used in conjunction with surface acquired water quality indicators, is used to characterize water body trophic status. Unsupervised multispectral classification, when interpreted by lake scientists familiar with a specific water body, yields classifications of equal validity with supervised methods and in a more cost effective manner. Image data base technology is used to great advantage in characterizing other contributing effects to water quality. These effects include drainage basin configuration, terrain slope, soil, precipitation and land cover characteristics.

A timer inventory based upon manual and automated analysis of ERTS-1 and supporting aircraft data using multistage probability sampling. [Plumas National Forest, California

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nichols, J. D.; Gialdini, M.; Jaakkola, S.

1974-01-01

A quasi-operational study demonstrating that a timber inventory based on manual and automated analysis of ERTS-1, supporting aircraft data and ground data was made using multistage sampling techniques. The inventory proved to be a timely, cost effective alternative to conventional timber inventory techniques. The timber volume on the Quincy Ranger District of the Plumas National Forest was estimated to be 2.44 billion board feet with a sampling error of 8.2 percent. Costs per acre for the inventory procedure at 1.1 cent/acre compared favorably with the costs of a conventional inventory at 25 cents/acre. A point-by-point comparison of CALSCAN-classified ERTS data with human-interpreted low altitude photo plots indicated no significant differences in the overall classification accuracies.

Visualization of hyperspectral imagery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hogervorst, Maarten A.; Bijl, Piet; Toet, Alexander

2007-04-01

We developed four new techniques to visualize hyper spectral image data for man-in-the-loop target detection. The methods respectively: (1) display the subsequent bands as a movie ("movie"), (2) map the data onto three channels and display these as a colour image ("colour"), (3) display the correlation between the pixel signatures and a known target signature ("match") and (4) display the output of a standard anomaly detector ("anomaly"). The movie technique requires no assumptions about the target signature and involves no information loss. The colour technique produces a single image that can be displayed in real-time. A disadvantage of this technique is loss of information. A display of the match between a target signature and pixels and can be interpreted easily and fast, but this technique relies on precise knowledge of the target signature. The anomaly detector signifies pixels with signatures that deviate from the (local) background. We performed a target detection experiment with human observers to determine their relative performance with the four techniques,. The results show that the "match" presentation yields the best performance, followed by "movie" and "anomaly", while performance with the "colour" presentation was the poorest. Each scheme has its advantages and disadvantages and is more or less suited for real-time and post-hoc processing. The rationale is that the final interpretation is best done by a human observer. In contrast to automatic target recognition systems, the interpretation of hyper spectral imagery by the human visual system is robust to noise and image transformations and requires a minimal number of assumptions (about signature of target and background, target shape etc.) When more knowledge about target and background is available this may be used to help the observer interpreting the data (aided target detection).

Satellite monitoring of vegetation and geology in semi-arid environments. [Tanzania

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kihlblom, U.; Johansson, D. (Principal Investigator)

1980-01-01

The possibility of mapping various characteristics of the natural environment of Tanzania by various LANDSAT techniques was assessed. Interpretation and mapping were carried out using black and white as well as color infrared images on the scale of 1:250,000. The advantages of several computer techniques were also assessed, including contrast-stretched rationing, differential edge enhancement; supervised classification; multitemporal classification; and change detection. Results Show the most useful image for interpretation comes from band 5, with additional information being obtained from either band 6 or band 7. The advantages of using color infrared images for interpreting vegetation and geology are so great that black and white should be used only to supplement the colored images.

MR signal intensity: staying on the bright side in MR image interpretation

PubMed Central

Bloem, Johan L; Reijnierse, Monique; Huizinga, Tom W J

2018-01-01

In 2003, the Nobel Prize for Medicine was awarded for contribution to the invention of MRI, reflecting the incredible value of MRI for medicine. Since 2003, enormous technical advancements have been made in acquiring MR images. However, MRI has a complicated, accident-prone dark side; images are not calibrated and respective images are dependent on all kinds of subjective choices in the settings of the machine, acquisition technique parameters, reconstruction techniques, data transmission, filtering and postprocessing techniques. The bright side is that understanding MR techniques increases opportunities to unravel characteristics of tissue. In this viewpoint, we summarise the different subjective choices that can be made to generate MR images and stress the importance of communication between radiologists and rheumatologists to correctly interpret images.

Mapping land cover from satellite images: A basic, low cost approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elifrits, C. D.; Barney, T. W.; Barr, D. J.; Johannsen, C. J.

1978-01-01

Simple, inexpensive methodologies developed for mapping general land cover and land use categories from LANDSAT images are reported. One methodology, a stepwise, interpretive, direct tracing technique was developed through working with university students from different disciplines with no previous experience in satellite image interpretation. The technique results in maps that are very accurate in relation to actual land cover and relative to the small investment in skill, time, and money needed to produce the products.

Delineation of tidal scour through marine geophysical techniques at Sloop Channel and Goose Creek bridges, Jones Beach State Park, Long Island, New York

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stumm, Frederick; Chu, Anthony; Reynolds, Richard J.

2001-01-01

Inspection of the Goose Creek Bridge in southeastern Nassau County in April 1998 by the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) indicated a separation of bridge piers from the road bed as a result of pier instability due to apparent seabed scouring by tidal currents. This prompted a cooperative study by the U.S. Geological Survey with the NYSDOT to delineate the extent of tidal scour at this bridge and at the Sloop Channel Bridge, about 0.5 mile to the south, through several marine- geophysical techniques. These techniques included use of a narrow-beam, 200-kilohertz, research-grade fathometer, a global positioning system accurate to within 3 feet, a 3.5 to 7-kilohertz seismic-reflection profiler, and an acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP). The ADCP was used only at the Sloop Channel Bridge; the other techniques were used at both bridges.Results indicate extensive tidal scour at both bridges. The fathometer data indicate two major scour holes nearly parallel to the Sloop Channel Bridge—one along the east side, and one along the west side (bridge is oriented north-south). The scour-hole depths are as much as 47 feet below sea level and average more than 40 feet below sea level; these scour holes also appear to have begun to connect beneath the bridge. The deepest scour is at the north end of the bridge beneath the westernmost piers. The east-west symmetry of scour at Sloop Channel Bridge suggests that flood and ebb tides produce extensive scour.The thickness of sediment that has settled within scour holes could not be interpreted from fathometer data alone because fathometer frequencies cannot penetrate beneath the sea-floor surface. The lower frequencies used in seismic-reflection profiling can penetrate the sea floor and underlying sediments, and indicate the amount of infilling of scour holes, the extent of riprap under the bridge, and the assemblages of clay, sand, and silt beneath the sea floor. The seismic- reflection surveys detected 2 to 5 feet of sediment filling the scour holes at both bridges; this indicates that the fathometer surveys were undermeasuring the effective depth of bridge scour by 2 to 5 feet through their inability to penetrate the infilled sediment. Several clay layers with thicknesses of 3 to 5 feet were detected beneath the sea floor at both bridges. Most of the piers beneath Sloop Channel Bridge appear to be surrounded by riprap, but, in several areas the riprap appears to be slumping or sliding into adjacent scour holes. Similar slumping was indicated at the Goose Creek Bridge. Most of the sediment underlying the sea floor at both bridges is interpreted as a fine-grained, cross-bedded sand.ADCP data from Sloop Channel indicate that the constricted flow beneath the bridge increases the horizontal current velocities from 2 to 6 feet per second. Total measured discharge beneath Sloop Channel Bridge was 41,800 cubic feet per second at flood tide and 27,600 cubic feet per second at ebb tide.

Towards Intelligent Interpretation of Low Strain Pile Integrity Testing Results Using Machine Learning Techniques.

PubMed

Cui, De-Mi; Yan, Weizhong; Wang, Xiao-Quan; Lu, Lie-Min

2017-10-25

Low strain pile integrity testing (LSPIT), due to its simplicity and low cost, is one of the most popular NDE methods used in pile foundation construction. While performing LSPIT in the field is generally quite simple and quick, determining the integrity of the test piles by analyzing and interpreting the test signals (reflectograms) is still a manual process performed by experienced experts only. For foundation construction sites where the number of piles to be tested is large, it may take days before the expert can complete interpreting all of the piles and delivering the integrity assessment report. Techniques that can automate test signal interpretation, thus shortening the LSPIT's turnaround time, are of great business value and are in great need. Motivated by this need, in this paper, we develop a computer-aided reflectogram interpretation (CARI) methodology that can interpret a large number of LSPIT signals quickly and consistently. The methodology, built on advanced signal processing and machine learning technologies, can be used to assist the experts in performing both qualitative and quantitative interpretation of LSPIT signals. Specifically, the methodology can ease experts' interpretation burden by screening all test piles quickly and identifying a small number of suspected piles for experts to perform manual, in-depth interpretation. We demonstrate the methodology's effectiveness using the LSPIT signals collected from a number of real-world pile construction sites. The proposed methodology can potentially enhance LSPIT and make it even more efficient and effective in quality control of deep foundation construction.

Sherlock Holmes' or Don Quixote`s certainty? Interpretations of cropmarks on satellite imageries in archaeological investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilgocka, Aleksandra; RÄ czkowski, Włodzimierz; Kostyrko, Mikołaj; Ruciński, Dominik

2016-08-01

Years of experience in air-photo interpretations provide us to conclusion that we know what we are looking at, we know why we can see cropmarks, we even can estimate, when are the best opportunities to observe them. But even today cropmarks may be a subject of misinterpretation or wishful thinking. The same problems appear when working with aerial photographs, satellite imageries, ALS, geophysics, etc. In the paper we present several case studies based on data acquired for and within ArchEO - archaeological applications of Earth Observation techniques project to discuss complexity and consequences of archaeological interpretations. While testing usefulness of satellite imagery in Poland on various types of sites, cropmarks were the most frequent indicators of past landscapes as well as archaeological and natural features. Hence, new archaeological sites have been discovered mainly thanks to cropmarks. This situation has given us an opportunity to test not only satellite imageries as a source of data but also confront them with results of other non-invasive methods of data acquisition. When working with variety of data we have met several issues which raised problems of interpretation. Consequently, questions related to the cognitive value of remote sensing data appear and should be discussed. What do the data represent? To what extent the imageries, cropmarks or other visualizations represent the past? How should we deal with ambiguity of data? What can we learn from pitfalls in the interpretation of cropmarks, soilmarks etc. to share more Sherlock's methodology rather than run around Don Quixote's delusions?

Application of borehole geophysics to water-resources investigations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Keys, W.S.; MacCary, L.M.

1971-01-01

This manual is intended to be a guide for hydrologists using borehole geophysics in ground-water studies. The emphasis is on the application and interpretation of geophysical well logs, and not on the operation of a logger. It describes in detail those logging techniques that have been utilized within the Water Resources Division of the U.S. Geological Survey, and those used in petroleum investigations that have potential application to hydrologic problems. Most of the logs described can be made by commercial logging service companies, and many can be made with small water-well loggers. The general principles of each technique and the rules of log interpretation are the same, regardless of differences in instrumentation. Geophysical well logs can be interpreted to determine the lithology, geometry, resistivity, formation factor, bulk density, porosity, permeability, moisture content, and specific yield of water-bearing rocks, and to define the source, movement, and chemical and physical characteristics of ground water. Numerous examples of logs are used to illustrate applications and interpretation in various ground-water environments. The interrelations between various types of logs are emphasized, and the following aspects are described for each of the important logging techniques: Principles and applications, instrumentation, calibration and standardization, radius of investigation, and extraneous effects.

The Interpretation of Spanish Subjunctive and Indicative Forms in Adverbial Clauses: A Cross-Sectional Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kanwit, Matthew; Geeslin, Kimberly L.

2014-01-01

The present study fills a need for investigations of learner and native speaker (NS) interpretation of the Spanish subjunctive in contexts that allow variation. The analysis compares responses by NSs and three levels of learners on a written interpretation task in which each item contained a temporal indicator ("cuando" "when",…

Strategies for Dealing with Missing Accelerometer Data.

PubMed

Stephens, Samantha; Beyene, Joseph; Tremblay, Mark S; Faulkner, Guy; Pullnayegum, Eleanor; Feldman, Brian M

2018-05-01

Missing data is a universal research problem that can affect studies examining the relationship between physical activity measured with accelerometers and health outcomes. Statistical techniques are available to deal with missing data; however, available techniques have not been synthesized. A scoping review was conducted to summarize the advantages and disadvantages of identified methods of dealing with missing data from accelerometers. Missing data poses a threat to the validity and interpretation of trials using physical activity data from accelerometry. Imputation using multiple imputation techniques is recommended to deal with missing data and improve the validity and interpretation of studies using accelerometry. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Interpretive Structural Model of Key Performance Indicators for Sustainable Maintenance Evaluatian in Rubber Industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amrina, E.; Yulianto, A.

2018-03-01

Sustainable maintenance is a new challenge for manufacturing companies to realize sustainable development. In this paper, an interpretive structural model is developed to evaluate sustainable maintenance in the rubber industry. The initial key performance indicators (KPIs) is identified and derived from literature and then validated by academic and industry experts. As a result, three factors of economic, social, and environmental dividing into a total of thirteen indicators are proposed as the KPIs for sustainable maintenance evaluation in rubber industry. Interpretive structural modeling (ISM) methodology is applied to develop a network structure model of the KPIs consisting of three levels. The results show the economic factor is regarded as the basic factor, the social factor as the intermediate factor, while the environmental factor indicated to be the leading factor. Two indicators of social factor i.e. labor relationship, and training and education have both high driver and dependence power, thus categorized as the unstable indicators which need further attention. All the indicators of environmental factor and one indicator of social factor are indicated as the most influencing indicator. The interpretive structural model hoped can aid the rubber companies in evaluating sustainable maintenance performance.

Least-squares deconvolution of evoked potentials and sequence optimization for multiple stimuli under low-jitter conditions.

PubMed

Bardy, Fabrice; Dillon, Harvey; Van Dun, Bram

2014-04-01

Rapid presentation of stimuli in an evoked response paradigm can lead to overlap of multiple responses and consequently difficulties interpreting waveform morphology. This paper presents a deconvolution method allowing overlapping multiple responses to be disentangled. The deconvolution technique uses a least-squared error approach. A methodology is proposed to optimize the stimulus sequence associated with the deconvolution technique under low-jitter conditions. It controls the condition number of the matrices involved in recovering the responses. Simulations were performed using the proposed deconvolution technique. Multiple overlapping responses can be recovered perfectly in noiseless conditions. In the presence of noise, the amount of error introduced by the technique can be controlled a priori by the condition number of the matrix associated with the used stimulus sequence. The simulation results indicate the need for a minimum amount of jitter, as well as a sufficient number of overlap combinations to obtain optimum results. An aperiodic model is recommended to improve reconstruction. We propose a deconvolution technique allowing multiple overlapping responses to be extracted and a method of choosing the stimulus sequence optimal for response recovery. This technique may allow audiologists, psychologists, and electrophysiologists to optimize their experimental designs involving rapidly presented stimuli, and to recover evoked overlapping responses. Copyright © 2013 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. All rights reserved.

Classification of air quality using fuzzy synthetic multiplication.

PubMed

Abdullah, Lazim; Khalid, Noor Dalina

2012-11-01

Proper identification of environment's air quality based on limited observations is an essential task to meet the goals of environmental management. Various classification methods have been used to estimate the change of air quality status and health. However, discrepancies frequently arise from the lack of clear distinction between each air quality, the uncertainty in the quality criteria employed and the vagueness or fuzziness embedded in the decision-making output values. Owing to inherent imprecision, difficulties always exist in some conventional methodologies when describing integrated air quality conditions with respect to various pollutants. Therefore, this paper presents two fuzzy multiplication synthetic techniques to establish classification of air quality. The fuzzy multiplication technique empowers the max-min operations in "or" and "and" in executing the fuzzy arithmetic operations. Based on a set of air pollutants data carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, ozone, and particulate matter (PM(10)) collected from a network of 51 stations in Klang Valley, East Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak were utilized in this evaluation. The two fuzzy multiplication techniques consistently classified Malaysia's air quality as "good." The findings indicated that the techniques may have successfully harmonized inherent discrepancies and interpret complex conditions. It was demonstrated that fuzzy synthetic multiplication techniques are quite appropriate techniques for air quality management.

On the Power of Abstract Interpretation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reddy, Uday S.; Kamin, Samuel N.

1991-01-01

Increasingly sophisticated applications of static analysis place increased burden on the reliability of the analysis techniques. Often, the failure of the analysis technique to detect some information my mean that the time or space complexity of the generated code would be altered. Thus, it is important to precisely characterize the power of static analysis techniques. We follow the approach of Selur et. al. who studied the power of strictness analysis techniques. Their result can be summarized by saying 'strictness analysis is perfect up to variations in constants.' In other words, strictness analysis is as good as it could be, short of actually distinguishing between concrete values. We use this approach to characterize a broad class of analysis techniques based on abstract interpretation including, but not limited to, strictness analysis. For the first-order case, we consider abstract interpretations where the abstract domain for data values is totally ordered. This condition is satisfied by Mycroft's strictness analysis that of Sekar et. al. and Wadler's analysis of list-strictness. For such abstract interpretations, we show that the analysis is complete in the sense that, short of actually distinguishing between concrete values with the same abstraction, it gives the best possible information. We further generalize these results to typed lambda calculus with pairs and higher-order functions. Note that products and function spaces over totally ordered domains are not totally ordered. In fact, the notion of completeness used in the first-order case fails if product domains or function spaces are added. We formulate a weaker notion of completeness based on observability of values. Two values (including pairs and functions) are considered indistinguishable if their observable components are indistinguishable. We show that abstract interpretation of typed lambda calculus programs is complete up to this notion of indistinguishability. We use denotationally-oriented arguments instead of the detailed operational arguments used by Selur et. al.. Hence, our proofs are much simpler. They should be useful for further future improvements.

Quantitative Image Analysis Techniques with High-Speed Schlieren Photography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pollard, Victoria J.; Herron, Andrew J.

2017-01-01

Optical flow visualization techniques such as schlieren and shadowgraph photography are essential to understanding fluid flow when interpreting acquired wind tunnel test data. Output of the standard implementations of these visualization techniques in test facilities are often limited only to qualitative interpretation of the resulting images. Although various quantitative optical techniques have been developed, these techniques often require special equipment or are focused on obtaining very precise and accurate data about the visualized flow. These systems are not practical in small, production wind tunnel test facilities. However, high-speed photography capability has become a common upgrade to many test facilities in order to better capture images of unsteady flow phenomena such as oscillating shocks and flow separation. This paper describes novel techniques utilized by the authors to analyze captured high-speed schlieren and shadowgraph imagery from wind tunnel testing for quantification of observed unsteady flow frequency content. Such techniques have applications in parametric geometry studies and in small facilities where more specialized equipment may not be available.

Interpretative Communities in Conflict: A Master Syllabus for Political Communication.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Craig Allen

1992-01-01

Advocates the interpretive communities approach to teaching political communication. Discusses philosophical issues in the teaching of political communication courses, and pedagogical techniques (including concepts versus cases, clustering examples, C-SPAN video examples, and simulations and games). (SR)

Quantitative analysis of in situ optical diagnostics for inferring particle/aggregate parameters in flames: Implications for soot surface growth and total emissivity

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

Koeylue, U.O.

1997-05-01

An in situ particulate diagnostic/analysis technique is outlined based on the Rayleigh-Debye-Gans polydisperse fractal aggregate (RDG/PFA) scattering interpretation of absolute angular light scattering and extinction measurements. Using proper particle refractive index, the proposed data analysis method can quantitatively yield all aggregate parameters (particle volume fraction, f{sub v}, fractal dimension, D{sub f}, primary particle diameter, d{sub p}, particle number density, n{sub p}, and aggregate size distribution, pdf(N)) without any prior knowledge about the particle-laden environment. The present optical diagnostic/interpretation technique was applied to two different soot-containing laminar and turbulent ethylene/air nonpremixed flames in order to assess its reliability. The aggregate interpretationmore » of optical measurements yielded D{sub f}, d{sub p}, and pdf(N) that are in excellent agreement with ex situ thermophoretic sampling/transmission electron microscope (TS/TEM) observations within experimental uncertainties. However, volume-equivalent single particle models (Rayleigh/Mie) overestimated d{sub p} by about a factor of 3, causing an order of magnitude underestimation in n{sub p}. Consequently, soot surface areas and growth rates were in error by a factor of 3, emphasizing that aggregation effects need to be taken into account when using optical diagnostics for a reliable understanding of soot formation/evolution mechanism in flames. The results also indicated that total soot emissivities were generally underestimated using Rayleigh analysis (up to 50%), mainly due to the uncertainties in soot refractive indices at infrared wavelengths. This suggests that aggregate considerations may not be essential for reasonable radiation heat transfer predictions from luminous flames because of fortuitous error cancellation, resulting in typically a 10 to 30% net effect.« less

Current and evolving echocardiographic techniques for the quantitative evaluation of cardiac mechanics: ASE/EAE consensus statement on methodology and indications endorsed by the Japanese Society of Echocardiography.

PubMed

Mor-Avi, Victor; Lang, Roberto M; Badano, Luigi P; Belohlavek, Marek; Cardim, Nuno Miguel; Derumeaux, Genevieve; Galderisi, Maurizio; Marwick, Thomas; Nagueh, Sherif F; Sengupta, Partho P; Sicari, Rosa; Smiseth, Otto A; Smulevitz, Beverly; Takeuchi, Masaaki; Thomas, James D; Vannan, Mani; Voigt, Jens-Uwe; Zamorano, Jose Luis

2011-03-01

Echocardiographic imaging is ideally suited for the evaluation of cardiac mechanics because of its intrinsically dynamic nature. Because for decades, echocardiography has been the only imaging modality that allows dynamic imaging of the heart, it is only natural that new, increasingly automated techniques for sophisticated analysis of cardiac mechanics have been driven by researchers and manufacturers of ultrasound imaging equipment. Several such techniques have emerged over the past decades to address the issue of reader's experience and inter-measurement variability in interpretation. Some were widely embraced by echocardiographers around the world and became part of the clinical routine, whereas others remained limited to research and exploration of new clinical applications. Two such techniques have dominated the research arena of echocardiography: (1) Doppler-based tissue velocity measurements, frequently referred to as tissue Doppler or myocardial Doppler, and (2) speckle tracking on the basis of displacement measurements. Both types of measurements lend themselves to the derivation of multiple parameters of myocardial function. The goal of this document is to focus on the currently available techniques that allow quantitative assessment of myocardial function via image-based analysis of local myocardial dynamics, including Doppler tissue imaging and speckle-tracking echocardiography, as well as integrated back- scatter analysis. This document describes the current and potential clinical applications of these techniques and their strengths and weaknesses, briefly surveys a selection of the relevant published literature while highlighting normal and abnormal findings in the context of different cardiovascular pathologies, and summarizes the unresolved issues, future research priorities, and recommended indications for clinical use.

Current and evolving echocardiographic techniques for the quantitative evaluation of cardiac mechanics: ASE/EAE consensus statement on methodology and indications endorsed by the Japanese Society of Echocardiography.

PubMed

Mor-Avi, Victor; Lang, Roberto M; Badano, Luigi P; Belohlavek, Marek; Cardim, Nuno Miguel; Derumeaux, Geneviève; Galderisi, Maurizio; Marwick, Thomas; Nagueh, Sherif F; Sengupta, Partho P; Sicari, Rosa; Smiseth, Otto A; Smulevitz, Beverly; Takeuchi, Masaaki; Thomas, James D; Vannan, Mani; Voigt, Jens-Uwe; Zamorano, José Luis

2011-03-01

Echocardiographic imaging is ideally suited for the evaluation of cardiac mechanics because of its intrinsically dynamic nature. Because for decades, echocardiography has been the only imaging modality that allows dynamic imaging of the heart, it is only natural that new, increasingly automated techniques for sophisticated analysis of cardiac mechanics have been driven by researchers and manufacturers of ultrasound imaging equipment.Several such technique shave emerged over the past decades to address the issue of reader's experience and inter measurement variability in interpretation.Some were widely embraced by echocardiographers around the world and became part of the clinical routine,whereas others remained limited to research and exploration of new clinical applications.Two such techniques have dominated the research arena of echocardiography: (1) Doppler based tissue velocity measurements,frequently referred to as tissue Doppler or myocardial Doppler, and (2) speckle tracking on the basis of displacement measurements.Both types of measurements lend themselves to the derivation of multiple parameters of myocardial function. The goal of this document is to focus on the currently available techniques that allow quantitative assessment of myocardial function via image-based analysis of local myocardial dynamics, including Doppler tissue imaging and speckle-tracking echocardiography, as well as integrated backscatter analysis. This document describes the current and potential clinical applications of these techniques and their strengths and weaknesses,briefly surveys a selection of the relevant published literature while highlighting normal and abnormal findings in the context of different cardiovascular pathologies, and summarizes the unresolved issues, future research priorities, and recommended indications for clinical use.

The Validity of the Multi-Informant Approach to Assessing Child and Adolescent Mental Health

PubMed Central

De Los Reyes, Andres; Augenstein, Tara M.; Wang, Mo; Thomas, Sarah A.; Drabick, Deborah A.G.; Burgers, Darcy E.; Rabinowitz, Jill

2015-01-01

Child and adolescent patients may display mental health concerns within some contexts and not others (e.g., home vs. school). Thus, understanding the specific contexts in which patients display concerns may assist mental health professionals in tailoring treatments to patients' needs. Consequently, clinical assessments often include reports from multiple informants who vary in the contexts in which they observe patients' behavior (e.g., patients, parents, teachers). Previous meta-analyses indicate that informants' reports correlate at low-to-moderate magnitudes. However, is it valid to interpret low correspondence among reports as indicating that patients display concerns in some contexts and not others? We meta-analyzed 341 studies published between 1989 and 2014 that reported cross-informant correspondence estimates, and observed low-to-moderate correspondence (mean internalizing: r = .25; mean externalizing: r = .30; mean overall: r = .28). Informant pair, mental health domain, and measurement method moderated magnitudes of correspondence. These robust findings have informed the development of concepts for interpreting multi-informant assessments, allowing researchers to draw specific predictions about the incremental and construct validity of these assessments. In turn, we critically evaluated research on the incremental and construct validity of the multi-informant approach to clinical child and adolescent assessment. In so doing, we identify crucial gaps in knowledge for future research, and provide recommendations for “best practices” in using and interpreting multi-informant assessments in clinical work and research. This paper has important implications for developing personalized approaches to clinical assessment, with the goal of informing techniques for tailoring treatments to target the specific contexts where patients display concerns. PMID:25915035

Using bioimpedance spectroscopy parameters as real-time feedback during tDCS.

PubMed

Nejadgholi, Isar; Caytak, Herschel; Bolic, Miodrag

2016-08-01

An exploratory analysis is carried out to investigate the feasibility of using BioImpedance Spectroscopy (BIS) parameters, measured on scalp, as real-time feedback during Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS). TDCS is shown to be a potential treatment for neurological disorders. However, this technique is not considered as a reliable clinical treatment, due to the lack of a measurable indicator of treatment efficacy. Although the voltage that is applied on the head is very simple to measure during a tDCS session, changes of voltage are difficult to interpret in terms of variables that affect clinical outcome. BIS parameters are considered as potential feedback parameters, because: 1) they are shown to be associated with the DC voltage applied on the head, 2) they are interpretable in terms of conductive and capacitive properties of head tissues, 3) physical interpretation of BIS measurements makes them prone to be adjusted by clinically controllable variables, 4) BIS parameters are measurable in a cost-effective and safe way and do not interfere with DC stimulation. This research indicates that a quadratic regression model can predict the DC voltage between anode and cathode based on parameters extracted from BIS measurements. These parameters are extracted by fitting the measured BIS spectra to an equivalent electrical circuit model. The effect of clinical tDCS variables on BIS parameters needs to be investigated in future works. This work suggests that BIS is a potential method to be used for monitoring a tDCS session in order to adjust, tailor, or personalize tDCS treatment protocols.

Techniques for interpretation of geoid anomalies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapman, M. E.

1979-01-01

For purposes of geological interpretation, techniques are developed to compute directly the geoid anomaly over models of density within the earth. Ideal bodies such as line segments, vertical sheets, and rectangles are first used to calculate the geoid anomaly. Realistic bodies are modeled with formulas for two-dimensional polygons and three-dimensional polyhedra. By using Fourier transform methods the two-dimensional geoid is seen to be a filtered version of the gravity field, in which the long-wavelength components are magnified and the short-wavelength components diminished.

Slope monitoring by using 2-D resistivity method at Sungai Batu, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azman, Muhamad Iqbal Mubarak Faharul; Yusof, Azim Hilmy Mohd; Ismail, Nur Azwin; Ismail, Noer El Hidayah

2017-07-01

Slope is a dynamic system of geo-environmental phenomena that related to the movement of the soil and rock masses. In Pulau Pinang, the occurrence of slope related phenomena such as landslide and rock fall has become a huge issue especially during rainy season as the government would have to invest more for the people safety. 2-D resistivity method is one of the geophysical methods that can be applied to overcome this issue thus prepare countermeasure actions. Monitoring is one of the common acquisition technique that has been used in solving such issue. This technique was applied to identify and monitor changes at the suspected area and thus, countermeasure steps can be taken accordingly and not blindfolded. Starting from August until November 2016, a 200 m survey line of 2-D resistivity survey had been conducted monthly at Sungai Batu, Pulau Pinang slope for monitoring purpose. Three resistivity ranges were able to detect within the subsurface. Resistivity value of 250 - 400 Ωm indicated the low resistivity value and interpreted as the weak zone located at distance of 90 - 120 m with depth of 10 m. Intermediate resistivity value was interpreted as weathered granite zone with resistivity value of 400 - 1500 Ωm was found at almost along survey line. High resistivity value was > 5000 Ωm and interpreted as granitic bedrock located at depth of > 20 m. Aside from weathered granite zone and weak zone, a fracture was found develop over time at distance of 130 - 140 m. The features found have the potential to be the cause for slope failure phenomena to occur. As a conclusion, monitoring slope using 2-D resistivity method is a success and indeed helpful in overcome landslide and rock fall issue as a pre-countermeasure action.

Tooth color measurement using Chroma Meter: techniques, advantages, and disadvantages.

PubMed

Li, Yiming

2003-01-01

Tooth whitening has become a popular and routine dental procedure, and its efficacy and safety have been well documented. However, the measurement of tooth color, particularly in the evaluation of the efficacy of a system intended to enhance tooth whiteness, remains a challenge. One of the instruments used for assessing tooth color in clinical whitening studies is the Minolta Chroma Meter CR-321 (Minolta Corporation USA, Ramsey, NJ, USA). This article describes the instrument and discusses various measuring procedures and the Chroma Meter's advantages, limitations, and disadvantages. The available information indicates that, although Minolta Chroma Meter CR-321 provides quantitative and objective measurements of tooth color, it can be tedious to use with a custom alignment device. The Chroma Meter data are inconsistent with the commonly used visual instruments such as Vitapan Classical Shade Guide (Vita Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany), although in many cases the general trends are similar. It is also questionable whether the small area measured adequately represents the color of the whole tooth. A more critical challenge is the lack of methods for interpreting the Chroma Meter data regarding tooth color change in studies evaluating the efficacy of whitening systems. Consequently, at present the Chroma Meter data alone do not appear to be adequate for determining tooth color change in whitening research, although the quantitative measurements may be useful as supplemental or supportive data. Research is needed to develop and improve the instrument and technique for quantitative measurement of tooth color and interpretation of the data for evaluating tooth color change. This paper will help readers to understand the advantages and limitations of the Minolta Chroma Meter used for evaluating the efficacy of tooth-whitening systems so that proper judgment can be made in the interpretation of the results of clinical studies.

The science of spinal motion palpation: a review and update with implications for assessment and intervention

PubMed Central

Nyberg, Richard Edward; Russell Smith, A

2013-01-01

Spinal motion palpation (SMP) is a standard component of a manual therapy examination despite questionable reliability. The present research is inconclusive as to the relevance of the findings from SMP, with respect to the patient’s pain complaints. Differences in the testing methods and interpretation of spinal mobility testing are problematic. If SMP is to be a meaningful component of a spinal examination, the methods for testing and interpretation must be carefully scrutinized. The intent of this narrative review is to facilitate a better understanding of how SMP should provide the examiner with relevant information for assessment and treatment of patients with spinal pain disorders. The concept of just noticeable difference is presented and applied to SMP as a suggestion for determining the neutral zone behavior of a spinal segment. In addition, the use of a lighter, or more passive receptive palpation technique, is considered as a means for increasing tactile discrimination of spinal movement behavior. Further understanding of the scientific basis of testing SMP may improve intra- and inter-examiner reliability. The significance of the findings from SMP should be considered in context of the patient’s functional problem. Methodological changes may be indicated for the performance of SMP techniques, such as central posterior-anterior (PA) pressure and passive intervertebral motion tests, in order to improve reliability. Instructors of manual therapy involved in teaching SMP should be knowledgeable of the neurophysiological processes of touch sensation so as to best advise students in the application of the various testing techniques. PMID:24421627

Facilitating the exploitation of ERTS-1 imagery utilizing snow enhancement techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wobber, F. J. (Principal Investigator); Martin, K. R.; Amato, R. V.

1973-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. Snow cover in combination with low angle solar illumination has been found to provide increased tonal contrast of surface feature and is useful in the detection of bedrock fractures. Identical fracture systems were not as readily detectable in the fall due to the lack of a contrasting surface medium (snow) and a relatively high sun angle. Low angle solar illumination emphasizes topographic expressions not as apparent on imagery acquired with a higher sun angle. A strong correlation exists between the major fracture-lineament directions interpreted from multi-sensor imagery (including snow-free and snow cover ERTS) and the strike of bedrock joints recorded in the field indicating the structural origin of interpreted fracture-lineaments. A fracture-annotated ERTS-1 photo base map (1:250,000 scale) is being prepared for western Massachusetts. The map will document the utilization of ERTS-1 imagery for geological analysis in comparative snow-free and snow-covered terrain.

Interpreting Disruption Prediction Models to Improve Plasma Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parsons, Matthew

2017-10-01

In order for the tokamak to be a feasible design for a fusion reactor, it is necessary to minimize damage to the machine caused by plasma disruptions. Accurately predicting disruptions is a critical capability for triggering any mitigative actions, and a modest amount of attention has been given to efforts that employ machine learning techniques to make these predictions. By monitoring diagnostic signals during a discharge, such predictive models look for signs that the plasma is about to disrupt. Typically these predictive models are interpreted simply to give a `yes' or `no' response as to whether a disruption is approaching. However, it is possible to extract further information from these models to indicate which input signals are more strongly correlated with the plasma approaching a disruption. If highly accurate predictive models can be developed, this information could be used in plasma control schemes to make better decisions about disruption avoidance. This work was supported by a Grant from the 2016-2017 Fulbright U.S. Student Program, administered by the Franco-American Fulbright Commission in France.

Accuracy assessment of vegetation community maps generated by aerial photography interpretation: perspective from the tropical savanna, Australia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lewis, Donna L.; Phinn, Stuart

2011-01-01

Aerial photography interpretation is the most common mapping technique in the world. However, unlike an algorithm-based classification of satellite imagery, accuracy of aerial photography interpretation generated maps is rarely assessed. Vegetation communities covering an area of 530 km2 on Bullo River Station, Northern Territory, Australia, were mapped using an interpretation of 1:50,000 color aerial photography. Manual stereoscopic line-work was delineated at 1:10,000 and thematic maps generated at 1:25,000 and 1:100,000. Multivariate and intuitive analysis techniques were employed to identify 22 vegetation communities within the study area. The accuracy assessment was based on 50% of a field dataset collected over a 4 year period (2006 to 2009) and the remaining 50% of sites were used for map attribution. The overall accuracy and Kappa coefficient for both thematic maps was 66.67% and 0.63, respectively, calculated from standard error matrices. Our findings highlight the need for appropriate scales of mapping and accuracy assessment of aerial photography interpretation generated vegetation community maps.

Computer enhancement through interpretive techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foster, G.; Spaanenburg, H. A. E.; Stumpf, W. E.

1972-01-01

The improvement in the usage of the digital computer through the use of the technique of interpretation rather than the compilation of higher ordered languages was investigated by studying the efficiency of coding and execution of programs written in FORTRAN, ALGOL, PL/I and COBOL. FORTRAN was selected as the high level language for examining programs which were compiled, and A Programming Language (APL) was chosen for the interpretive language. It is concluded that APL is competitive, not because it and the algorithms being executed are well written, but rather because the batch processing is less efficient than has been admitted. There is not a broad base of experience founded on trying different implementation strategies which have been targeted at open competition with traditional processing methods.

Simulation of target interpretation based on infrared image features and psychology principle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Wei; Chen, Yu-hua; Gao, Hong-sheng; Wang, Zhan-feng; Wang, Ji-jun; Su, Rong-hua; Huang, Yan-ping

2009-07-01

It's an important and complicated process in target interpretation that target features extraction and identification, which effect psychosensorial quantity of interpretation person to target infrared image directly, and decide target viability finally. Using statistical decision theory and psychology principle, designing four psychophysical experiment, the interpretation model of the infrared target is established. The model can get target detection probability by calculating four features similarity degree between target region and background region, which were plotted out on the infrared image. With the verification of a great deal target interpretation in practice, the model can simulate target interpretation and detection process effectively, get the result of target interpretation impersonality, which can provide technique support for target extraction, identification and decision-making.

Role Of Synchrotron Techniques In USEPA Regulatory And Remediation Decisions

EPA Science Inventory

Science provides the foundation for credible decision making. Science is observation followed by an interpretation and understanding of the result of the measurement. Observations may not be correct, complete, or fully descriptive of the phenomena. Interpretation based on avai...

Black Interpretation, Black American Literature, and Grey Audiences.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Washington, Earl M.

1981-01-01

Defines and illustrates language techniques used by Black authors writing to and for Blacks in the 1960s and 1970s. Suggests how language and theme barriers of such literature might be overcome in a contemporary integrated oral interpretation classroom. (PD)

Applications of Geodesy to Geodynamics, an International Symposium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mueller, I. I. (Editor)

1978-01-01

Geodetic techniques in detecting and monitoring geodynamic phenomena are reviewed. Specific areas covered include: rotation of the earth and polar motion; tectonic plate movements and crustal deformations (space techniques); horizontal crustal movements (terrestrial techniques); vertical crustal movements (terrestrial techniques); gravity field, geoid, and ocean surface by space techniques; surface gravity and new techniques for the geophysical interpretation of gravity and geoid undulation; and earth tides and geodesy.

Developing the 18th indicator for interpreting indicators of rangeland health on Northern Great Plains rangelands

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

National Resources Inventory (NRI) resource assessment report shows little to no departure on Rangeland Health for most Northern Great Plains Rangelands. This information is supported by Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health (IIRH) data collected at local to regional scales. There is however a...

Presentation and Impact of Experimental Techniques in Chemistry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sojka, Zbigniew; Che, Michel

2008-01-01

Laboratory and practical courses, where students become familiar with experimental techniques and learn to interpret data and relate them to appropriate theory, play a vital role in chemical education. In the large panoply of currently available techniques, it is difficult to find a rational and easy way to classify the techniques in relation to…

Towards Intelligent Interpretation of Low Strain Pile Integrity Testing Results Using Machine Learning Techniques

PubMed Central

Cui, De-Mi; Wang, Xiao-Quan; Lu, Lie-Min

2017-01-01

Low strain pile integrity testing (LSPIT), due to its simplicity and low cost, is one of the most popular NDE methods used in pile foundation construction. While performing LSPIT in the field is generally quite simple and quick, determining the integrity of the test piles by analyzing and interpreting the test signals (reflectograms) is still a manual process performed by experienced experts only. For foundation construction sites where the number of piles to be tested is large, it may take days before the expert can complete interpreting all of the piles and delivering the integrity assessment report. Techniques that can automate test signal interpretation, thus shortening the LSPIT’s turnaround time, are of great business value and are in great need. Motivated by this need, in this paper, we develop a computer-aided reflectogram interpretation (CARI) methodology that can interpret a large number of LSPIT signals quickly and consistently. The methodology, built on advanced signal processing and machine learning technologies, can be used to assist the experts in performing both qualitative and quantitative interpretation of LSPIT signals. Specifically, the methodology can ease experts’ interpretation burden by screening all test piles quickly and identifying a small number of suspected piles for experts to perform manual, in-depth interpretation. We demonstrate the methodology’s effectiveness using the LSPIT signals collected from a number of real-world pile construction sites. The proposed methodology can potentially enhance LSPIT and make it even more efficient and effective in quality control of deep foundation construction. PMID:29068431

Identification of temporal variations in mental workload using locally-linear-embedding-based EEG feature reduction and support-vector-machine-based clustering and classification techniques.

PubMed

Yin, Zhong; Zhang, Jianhua

2014-07-01

Identifying the abnormal changes of mental workload (MWL) over time is quite crucial for preventing the accidents due to cognitive overload and inattention of human operators in safety-critical human-machine systems. It is known that various neuroimaging technologies can be used to identify the MWL variations. In order to classify MWL into a few discrete levels using representative MWL indicators and small-sized training samples, a novel EEG-based approach by combining locally linear embedding (LLE), support vector clustering (SVC) and support vector data description (SVDD) techniques is proposed and evaluated by using the experimentally measured data. The MWL indicators from different cortical regions are first elicited by using the LLE technique. Then, the SVC approach is used to find the clusters of these MWL indicators and thereby to detect MWL variations. It is shown that the clusters can be interpreted as the binary class MWL. Furthermore, a trained binary SVDD classifier is shown to be capable of detecting slight variations of those indicators. By combining the two schemes, a SVC-SVDD framework is proposed, where the clear-cut (smaller) cluster is detected by SVC first and then a subsequent SVDD model is utilized to divide the overlapped (larger) cluster into two classes. Finally, three-class MWL levels (low, normal and high) can be identified automatically. The experimental data analysis results are compared with those of several existing methods. It has been demonstrated that the proposed framework can lead to acceptable computational accuracy and has the advantages of both unsupervised and supervised training strategies. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Modern Geodetic Measurement Techniques in Gravimetric Studies on the Example of Gypsum Karst in the Siesławice Region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Porzucek, Sławomir; Łój, Monika; Matwij, Karolina; Matwij, Wojciech

2018-03-01

In the region of Siesławice (near Busko-Zdrój, Poland) there are unique phenomena of gypsum karst. Atmospheric factors caused numerous gypsum outcrops, canals and underground voids. The article presents the possibility of using non-invasive gravimetric surveys supplemented with geodetic measurements to illustrate karst changes occurring around the void. The use of modern geodetic measurement techniques including terrestrial and airborne laser scanning enables to generate a digital terrain model and a three-dimensional model of voids. Gravimetric field studies allowed to map the anomalies of the gravitational field of the near-surface zone. Geodetic measurement results have made it possible to accurately determine the terrain correction that supplemented the gravimetric anomaly information. Geophysical interpretation indicate the presence of weathered rocks in the near surface zone and fractures and loosened zones located surround the karst cave.

Development of performance test instrument in the experiment of law of conservation mass using self and peer assessment’s technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siswaningsih, W.; Nahadi; Firmansyah, D. R.

2018-05-01

The purpose of this research is to develop the instrument of performance assessment of law of mass conservation using self and peer assessment technique that meet valid and reliable criteria. The instrument components consist of task and rubric. The method used is development and validation.Value of the instrument reliability obtained from twice observations that are at four and six students every group with three same observers. Cronbach alpha value for four and six students every group consecutively are 0.94 and 0.76, indicating that value shows that the instrument is reliable. Optimum amount of the students that can be observed are four students. The implementation of the instrument to limited group of students showed that All of the students give positive responses to the instrument used with the interpretation of questionnaire scores >90% that categorized as good.

Human Factors Society, Annual Meeting, 35th, San Francisco, CA, Sept. 2-6, 1991, Proceedings. Vols. 1 2

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

Not Available

These proceedings discuss human factor issues related to aerospace systems, aging, communications, computer systems, consumer products, education and forensic topics, environmental design, industrial ergonomics, international technology transfer, organizational design and management, personality and individual differences in human performance, safety, system development, test and evaluation, training, and visual performance. Particular attention is given to HUDs, attitude indicators, and sensor displays; human factors of space exploration; behavior and aging; the design and evaluation of phone-based interfaces; knowledge acquisition and expert systems; handwriting, speech, and other input techniques; interface design for text, numerics, and speech; and human factor issues in medicine. Also discussedmore » are cumulative trauma disorders, industrial safety, evaluative techniques for automation impacts on the human operators, visual issues in training, and interpreting and organizing human factor concepts and information.« less

A quantitative investigation of the fracture pump-in/flowback test

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

Plahn, S.V.; Nolte, K.G.; Miska, S.

1995-12-31

Fracture closure pressure is an important parameter for fracture treatment design and evaluation. The pump-in/flowback (PIFB) test is frequently used to estimate its magnitude. The test is attractive because bottomhole pressures during flowback develop a distinct and repeatable signature. This is in contrast to the pump-in/shut-in test where strong indications of fracture closure are rarely seen. Various techniques exist for extracting closure pressure from the flowback pressure response. Unfortunately, these procedures give different estimates for closure pressure and their theoretical bases are not well established. We present results that place the PIFB test on a more solid foundation. A numericalmore » model is used to simulate the PIFB test and glean physical mechanisms contributing to the response. Based on our simulation results, we propose an interpretation procedure which gives better estimates for closure pressure than existing techniques.« less

Neonatal cranial sonography: A concise review for clinicians

PubMed Central

Gupta, Pankaj; Sodhi, Kushaljit Singh; Saxena, Akshay Kumar; Khandelwal, Niranjan; Singhi, Pratibha

2016-01-01

Cranial sonography continues to hold an important place in neonatal care. Attributes favorable to sonography that make it almost indispensable for routine care of the newborn includes easy access, low cost, portability, lack of ionizing radiations and exemption from sedation or anaesthesia. Cranial sonography has highest impact in neonates suspected to have meningitis and its complications; perinatal ischemia particularly periventricular leukomalacia (PVL); hydrocephalus resulting from multitude of causes and hemorrhage. Not withstanding this, cranial sonography has yielded results for a repertoire of indications. Approach to cranial sonography involves knowledge of the normal developmental anatomy of brain parenchyma for correct interpretation. Correct technique, taking advantage of multiple sonographic windows and variable frequencies of the ultrasound probes allows a detailed and comprehensive examination of brain parenchyma. In this review, we discuss the technique, normal and variant anatomy as well as disease entities of neonatal cranial sonography. PMID:27195026

A novel murmur-based heart sound feature extraction technique using envelope-morphological analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yao, Hao-Dong; Ma, Jia-Li; Fu, Bin-Bin; Wang, Hai-Yang; Dong, Ming-Chui

2015-07-01

Auscultation of heart sound (HS) signals serves as an important primary approach to diagnose cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) for centuries. Confronting the intrinsic drawbacks of traditional HS auscultation, computer-aided automatic HS auscultation based on feature extraction technique has witnessed explosive development. Yet, most existing HS feature extraction methods adopt acoustic or time-frequency features which exhibit poor relationship with diagnostic information, thus restricting the performance of further interpretation and analysis. Tackling such a bottleneck problem, this paper innovatively proposes a novel murmur-based HS feature extraction method since murmurs contain massive pathological information and are regarded as the first indications of pathological occurrences of heart valves. Adapting discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and Shannon envelope, the envelope-morphological characteristics of murmurs are obtained and three features are extracted accordingly. Validated by discriminating normal HS and 5 various abnormal HS signals with extracted features, the proposed method provides an attractive candidate in automatic HS auscultation.

Exploitation of ERTS-1 imagery utilizing snow enhancement techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wobber, F. J.; Martin, K. R.

1973-01-01

Photogeological analysis of ERTS-simulation and ERTS-1 imagery of snowcovered terrain within the ERAP Feather River site and within the New England (ERTS) test area provided new fracture detail which does not appear on available geological maps. Comparative analysis of snowfree ERTS-1 images has demonstrated that MSS Bands 5 and 7 supply the greatest amount of geological fracture detail. Interpretation of the first snow-covered ERTS-1 images in correlation with ground snow depth data indicates that a heavy blanket of snow (more than 9 inches) accentuates major structural features while a light "dusting", (less than 1 inch) accentuates more subtle topographic expressions. An effective mail-based method for acquiring timely ground-truth (snowdepth) information was established and provides a ready correlation of fracture detail with snow depth so as to establish the working limits of the technique. The method is both efficient and inexpensive compared with the cost of similarly scaled direct field observations.

Positive and negative variations in capacitive images for given defects under varying experimental conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Chen; Yin, Xiaokang; Li, Zhen; Li, Wei; Chen, Guoming

2018-04-01

Capacitive imaging (CI) technique is a novel electromagnetic NDE technique. The Quasi-static electromagnetic field from the carefully designed electrode pair will vary when the electrical properties of the sample change, leading to the possibility of imaging. It is observed that for a given specimen, the targeted features appear as different variations in capacitive images under different experimental conditions. In some cases, even opposite variations occur, which brings confusion to indication interpretation. It is thus thought interesting to embark on investigations into the cause and effects of the negative variation phenomenon. In this work, the positive and negative variations were first explained from the measurement sensitivity distribution perspective. This was then followed by a detailed analysis using finite element models in COMSOL. A parametric experimental study on a glass fiber composite plate with artificial defects was then carried out to investigate how the experimental conditions affect the variation.

New insights into the structure of Om Ali-Thelepte basin, central Tunisia, inferred from gravity data: Hydrogeological implications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harchi, Mongi; Gabtni, Hakim; El Mejri, Hatem; Dassi, Lassaad; Mammou, Abdallah Ben

2016-08-01

This work presents new results from gravity data analyses and interpretation within the Om Ali-Thelepte (OAT) basin, central Tunisia. It focuses on the hydrogeological implication, using several qualitative and quantitative techniques such as horizontal gradient, upward continuation and Euler deconvolution on boreholes log data, seismic reflection data and electrical conductivity measurements. The structures highlighted using the filtering techniques suggest that the Miocene aquifer of OAT basin is cut by four major fault systems that trend E-W, NE-SW, NW-SE and NNE-SSW. In addition, a NW-SE gravity model established shows the geometry of the Miocene sandstone reservoir and the Upper Cretaceous limestone rocks. Moreover, the superimposition of the electrical conductivity and the structural maps indicates that the low conductivity values of sampled water from boreholes are located around main faults.

Automatic enhancement of skin fluorescence localization due to refractive index matching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Churmakov, Dmitry Y.; Meglinski, Igor V.; Piletsky, Sergey A.; Greenhalgh, Douglas A.

2004-07-01

Fluorescence diagnostic techniques are notable amongst many other optical methods, as they offer high sensitivity and non-invasive measurements of tissue properties. However, a combination of multiple scattering and physical heterogeneity of biological tissues hampers the interpretation of the fluorescence measurements. The analyses of the spatial distribution of endogenous and exogenous fluorophores excitations within tissues and their contribution to the detected signal localization are essential for many applications. We have developed a novel Monte Carlo technique that gives a graphical perception of how the excitation and fluorescence detected signal are localized in tissues. Our model takes into account spatial distribution of fluorophores and their quantum yields. We demonstrate that matching of the refractive indices of ambient medium and topical skin layer improves spatial localization of the detected fluorescence signal within the tissue. This result is consistent with the recent conclusion that administering biocompatible agents results in higher image contrast.

Computer-aided boundary delineation of agricultural lands

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheng, Thomas D.; Angelici, Gary L.; Slye, Robert E.; Ma, Matt

1989-01-01

The National Agricultural Statistics Service of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) presently uses labor-intensive aerial photographic interpretation techniques to divide large geographical areas into manageable-sized units for estimating domestic crop and livestock production. Prototype software, the computer-aided stratification (CAS) system, was developed to automate the procedure, and currently runs on a Sun-based image processing system. With a background display of LANDSAT Thematic Mapper and United States Geological Survey Digital Line Graph data, the operator uses a cursor to delineate agricultural areas, called sampling units, which are assigned to strata of land-use and land-cover types. The resultant stratified sampling units are used as input into subsequent USDA sampling procedures. As a test, three counties in Missouri were chosen for application of the CAS procedures. Subsequent analysis indicates that CAS was five times faster in creating sampling units than the manual techniques were.

Performance Investigation of Proteomic Identification by HCD/CID Fragmentations in Combination with High/Low-Resolution Detectors on a Tribrid, High-Field Orbitrap Instrument

PubMed Central

Shen, Shichen; Sheng, Quanhu; Shyr, Yu; Qu, Jun

2016-01-01

The recently-introduced Orbitrap Fusion mass spectrometry permits various types of MS2 acquisition methods. To date, these different MS2 strategies and the optimal data interpretation approach for each have not been adequately evaluated. This study comprehensively investigated the four MS2 strategies: HCD-OT (higher-energy-collisional-dissociation with Orbitrap detection), HCD-IT (HCD with ion trap, IT), CID-IT (collision-induced-dissociation with IT) and CID-OT on Orbitrap Fusion. To achieve extensive comparison and identify the optimal data interpretation method for each technique, several search engines (SEQUEST and Mascot) and post-processing methods (score-based, PeptideProphet, and Percolator) were assessed for all techniques for the analysis of a human cell proteome. It was found that divergent conclusions could be made from the same dataset when different data interpretation approaches were used and therefore requiring a relatively fair comparison among techniques. Percolator was chosen for comparison of techniques because it performs the best among all search engines and MS2 strategies. For the analysis of human cell proteome using individual MS2 strategies, the highest number of identifications was achieved by HCD-OT, followed by HCD-IT and CID-IT. Based on these results, we concluded that a relatively fair platform for data interpretation is necessary to avoid divergent conclusions from the same dataset, and HCD-OT and HCD-IT may be preferable for protein/peptide identification using Orbitrap Fusion. PMID:27472422

Interpreting Low Spatial Resolution Thermal Data from Active Volcanoes on Io and the Earth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keszthelyi, L.; Harris, A. J. L.; Flynn, L.; Davies, A. G.; McEwen, A.

2001-01-01

The style of volcanism was successfully determined at a number of active volcanoes on Io and the Earth using the same techniques to interpret thermal remote sensing data. Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract.

Neurolinguistic Programming: Add It To Your Tool Chest of Interpretive Techniques.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parratt, Smitty

1997-01-01

Highlights the importance of using verbal and nonverbal neurolinguistic programming to maximize the potential of interactions between interpreters and the general public and to improve long-term interactions. Discusses the power of mirroring and representational systems. Contains 29 references. (JRH)

Application of field geophysics in geomorphology: Advances and limitations exemplified by case studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schrott, Lothar; Sass, Oliver

2008-01-01

During the last decade, the use of geophysical techniques has become popular in many geomorphological studies. However, the correct handling of geophysical instruments and the subsequent processing of the data they yield are difficult tasks. Furthermore, the description and interpretation of geomorphological settings to which they apply can significantly influence the data gathering and subsequent modelling procedure ( e.g. achieving a maximum depth of 30 m requires a certain profile length and geophone spacing or a particular frequency of antenna). For more than three decades geophysical techniques have been successfully applied, for example, in permafrost studies. However, in many cases complex or more heterogeneous subsurface structures could not be adequately interpreted due to limited computer facilities and time consuming calculations. As a result of recent technical improvements, geophysical techniques have been applied to a wider spectrum of geomorphological and geological settings. This paper aims to present some examples of geomorphological studies that demonstrate the powerful integration of geophysical techniques and highlight some of the limitations of these techniques. A focus has been given to the three most frequently used techniques in geomorphology to date, namely ground-penetrating radar, seismic refraction and DC resistivity. Promising applications are reported for a broad range of landforms and environments, such as talus slopes, block fields, landslides, complex valley fill deposits, karst and loess covered landforms. A qualitative assessment highlights suitable landforms and environments. The techniques can help to answer yet unsolved questions in geomorphological research regarding for example sediment thickness and internal structures. However, based on case studies it can be shown that the use of a single geophysical technique or a single interpretation tool is not recommended for many geomorphological surface and subsurface conditions as this may lead to significant errors in interpretation. Because of changing physical properties of the subsurface material ( e.g. sediment, water content) in many cases only a combination of two or sometimes even three geophysical methods gives sufficient insight to avoid serious misinterpretation. A "good practice guide" has been framed that provides recommendations to enable the successful application of three important geophysical methods in geomorphology and to help users avoid making serious mistakes.

What We Do and Do Not Know about Teaching Medical Image Interpretation.

PubMed

Kok, Ellen M; van Geel, Koos; van Merriënboer, Jeroen J G; Robben, Simon G F

2017-01-01

Educators in medical image interpretation have difficulty finding scientific evidence as to how they should design their instruction. We review and comment on 81 papers that investigated instructional design in medical image interpretation. We distinguish between studies that evaluated complete offline courses and curricula, studies that evaluated e-learning modules, and studies that evaluated specific educational interventions. Twenty-three percent of all studies evaluated the implementation of complete courses or curricula, and 44% of the studies evaluated the implementation of e-learning modules. We argue that these studies have encouraging results but provide little information for educators: too many differences exist between conditions to unambiguously attribute the learning effects to specific instructional techniques. Moreover, concepts are not uniformly defined and methodological weaknesses further limit the usefulness of evidence provided by these studies. Thirty-two percent of the studies evaluated a specific interventional technique. We discuss three theoretical frameworks that informed these studies: diagnostic reasoning, cognitive schemas and study strategies. Research on diagnostic reasoning suggests teaching students to start with non-analytic reasoning and subsequently applying analytic reasoning, but little is known on how to train non-analytic reasoning. Research on cognitive schemas investigated activities that help the development of appropriate cognitive schemas. Finally, research on study strategies supports the effectiveness of practice testing, but more study strategies could be applicable to learning medical image interpretation. Our commentary highlights the value of evaluating specific instructional techniques, but further evidence is required to optimally inform educators in medical image interpretation.

Spectroscopy and crystal structures of natural stereoisomers of neoclerodane diterpenoids from Teucrium yemense of Saudi medicinal plant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nur-e-Alam, Mohammad; Kanthasamy, Gopikkaa; Yousaf, Muhammad; Alqahtani, Ali S.; Ghabbour, Hazem A.; Al-Rehaily, Adnan J.

2017-11-01

3-O-deacetylteugracilin (1) and teugracilin B (2), two natural stereoisomers, are isolated from Teucrium yemense (Defl). These two compounds are almost identical to each other, differing only at the C6 stereocenter. We now crystallise these two compounds and for the first time, determine the crystal structure through single crystal X-ray diffraction, and the stereochemistry for all positions using spectroscopic data. These techniques enable us to establish the difference between the two compounds. Careful interpretation of the results indicates that HRMS and 1 and 2D NMR spectroscopy, are in agreement with single crystal X-ray diffraction data.

Numerical study for Darcy-Forchheimer flow of nanofluid due to an exponentially stretching curved surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayat, Tasawar; Haider, Farwa; Muhammad, Taseer; Alsaedi, Ahmed

2018-03-01

Here Darcy-Forchheimer flow of viscous nanofluid with Brownian motion and thermophoresis is addressed. An incompressible viscous liquid saturates the porous space through Darcy-Forchheimer relation. Flow is generated by an exponentially stretching curved surface. System of partial differential equations is converted into ordinary differential system. Nonlinear systems are solved numerically by NDSolve technique. Graphs are plotted for the outcomes of various pertinent variables. Skin friction coefficient and local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers have been physically interpreted. Our results indicate that the local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are reduced for larger values of local porosity parameter and Forchheimer number.

[Principles of PET].

PubMed

Beuthien-Baumann, B

2018-05-01

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a procedure in nuclear medicine, which is applied predominantly in oncological diagnostics. In the form of modern hybrid machines, such as PET computed tomography (PET/CT) and PET magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MRI) it has found wide acceptance and availability. The PET procedure is more than just another imaging technique, but a functional method with the capability for quantification in addition to the distribution pattern of the radiopharmaceutical, the results of which are used for therapeutic decisions. A profound knowledge of the principles of PET including the correct indications, patient preparation, and possible artifacts is mandatory for the correct interpretation of PET results.

Modeling and Testing of the Viscoelastic Properties of a Graphite Nanoplatelet/Epoxy Composite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Odegard, Gregory M.; Gates, Thomas S.

2005-01-01

In order to facilitate the interpretation of experimental data, a micromechanical modeling procedure is developed to predict the viscoelastic properties of a graphite nanoplatelet/epoxy composite as a function of volume fraction and nanoplatelet diameter. The predicted storage and loss moduli for the composite are compared to measured values from the same material using three test methods; Dynamical Mechanical Analysis, nanoindentation, and quasi-static tensile tests. In most cases, the model and experiments indicate that for increasing volume fractions of nanoplatelets, both the storage and loss moduli increase. Also, the results indicate that for nanoplatelet sizes above 15 microns, nanoindentation is capable of measuring properties of individual constituents of a composite system. Comparison of the predicted values to the measured data helps illustrate the relative similarities and differences between the bulk and local measurement techniques.

Synoptic thermal and oceanographic parameter distributions in the New York Bight Apex

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, R. W.; Bahn, G. S.; Thomas, J. P.

1981-01-01

Concurrent surface water measurements made from a moving oceanographic research vessel were used to calibrate and interpret remotely sensed data collected over a plume in the New York Bight Apex on 23 June 1977. Multiple regression techniques were used to develop equations to map synoptic distributions of chlorophyll a and total suspended matter in the remotely sensed scene. Thermal (which did not have surface calibration values) and water quality parameter distributions indicated a cold mass of water in the Bight Apex with an overflowing nutrient-rich warm water plume that originated in the Sandy Hook Bay and flowed south near the New Jersey shoreline. Data analysis indicates that remotely sensed data may be particularly useful for studying physical and biological processes in the top several metres of surface water at plume boundaries.

Enhanced Characterization of Niobium Surface Topography

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

Chen Xu, Hui Tian, Charles Reece, Michael Kelley

2011-12-01

Surface topography characterization is a continuing issue for the Superconducting Radio Frequency (SRF) particle accelerator community. Efforts are underway to both to improve surface topography, and its characterization and analysis using various techniques. In measurement of topography, Power Spectral Density (PSD) is a promising method to quantify typical surface parameters and develop scale-specific interpretations. PSD can also be used to indicate how chemical processes modifiesy the roughnesstopography at different scales. However, generating an accurate and meaningful topographic PSD of an SRF surface requires careful analysis and optimization. In this report, polycrystalline surfaces with different process histories are sampled with AFMmore » and stylus/white light interferometer profilometryers and analyzed to indicate trace topography evolution at different scales. evolving during etching or polishing. Moreover, Aan optimized PSD analysis protocol will be offered to serve the SRF surface characterization needs is presented.« less

Mapping the seabed and habitats in National Marine Sanctuaries - Examples from the East, Gulf and West Coasts

USGS Publications Warehouse

Valentine, Page C.; Cochrane, Guy R.; Scanlon, Kathryn M.

2003-01-01

The National Marine Sanctuary System requires seabed and habitat maps to serve as a basis for managing sanctuary resources and for conducting research. NOAA, the agency that manages the sanctuaries, and the USGS have conducted mapping projects in three sanctuaries (Stellwagen Bank NMS, Flower Garden Banks NMS, and Channel Islands NMS) with an emphasis on collaboration of geologists and biologists from the two agencies and from academic institutions. Mapping of seabed habitats is a developing field that requires the integration of geologic and biologic studies and the use of swath imaging techniques such as multibeam and sidescan sonar. Major products of swath mapping are shaded-relief topographic imagery which shows seabed features in great detail, and backscatter imagery which provides an indication of the types of materials that constitute the seabed. Sea floor images provide an excellent basis for conducting the groundtruthing studies (using video, photo, and sampling techniques) that are required to collect the data necessary for making meaningful interpretative maps of the seabed. The compilation of interpretive maps showing seabed environments and habitats also requires the development of a sea floor classification system that will be a basis for comparing, managing, and researching characteristic areas of the seabed. Seabed maps of the sanctuaries are proving useful for management and research decisions that address commercial and recreational fishing, habitat disturbance, engineering projects, tourism, and cultural resources.

Defining the nociceptor transcriptome

PubMed Central

Thakur, Matthew; Crow, Megan; Richards, Natalie; Davey, Gareth I. J.; Levine, Emma; Kelleher, Jayne H.; Agley, Chibeza C.; Denk, Franziska; Harridge, Stephen D. R.; McMahon, Stephen B.

2014-01-01

Unbiased “omics” techniques, such as next generation RNA-sequencing, can provide entirely novel insights into biological systems. However, cellular heterogeneity presents a significant barrier to analysis and interpretation of these datasets. The neurons of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) are an important model for studies of neuronal injury, regeneration and pain. The majority of investigators utilize a dissociated preparation of whole ganglia when studying cellular and molecular function. We demonstrate that the standard methods for producing these preparations gives a 10%-neuronal mixture of cells, with the remainder of cells constituting satellite glia and other non-neuronal cell types. Using a novel application of magnetic purification, we consistently obtain over 95% pure, viable neurons from adult tissue, significantly enriched for small diameter nociceptors expressing the voltage gated ion channel Nav1.8. Using genome-wide RNA-sequencing we compare the currently used (10% neuronal) and pure (95% nociceptor) preparations and find 920 genes enriched. This gives an unprecedented insight into the molecular composition of small nociceptive neurons in the DRG, potentially altering the interpretation of previous studies performed at the tissue level, and indicating a number of novel markers of this widely-studied population of cells. We anticipate that the ease of use, affordability and speed of this technique will see it become widely adopted, delivering a greatly improved capacity to study the roles of nociceptors in health and disease. PMID:25426020

Interaction techniques for radiology workstations: impact on users' productivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moise, Adrian; Atkins, M. Stella

2004-04-01

As radiologists progress from reading images presented on film to modern computer systems with images presented on high-resolution displays, many new problems arise. Although the digital medium has many advantages, the radiologist"s job becomes cluttered with many new tasks related to image manipulation. This paper presents our solution for supporting radiologists" interpretation of digital images by automating image presentation during sequential interpretation steps. Our method supports scenario based interpretation, which group data temporally, according to the mental paradigm of the physician. We extended current hanging protocols with support for "stages". A stage reflects the presentation of digital information required to complete a single step within a complex task. We demonstrated the benefits of staging in a user study with 20 lay subjects involved in a visual conjunctive search for targets, similar to a radiology task of identifying anatomical abnormalities. We designed a task and a set of stimuli which allowed us to simulate the interpretation workflow from a typical radiology scenario - reading a chest computed radiography exam when a prior study is also available. The simulation was possible by abstracting the radiologist"s task and the basic workstation navigation functionality. We introduced "Stages," an interaction technique attuned to the radiologist"s interpretation task. Compared to the traditional user interface, Stages generated a 14% reduction in the average interpretation.

Accurate Distances to Important Spiral Galaxies: M63, M74, NGC 1291, NGC 4559, NGC 4625, and NGC 5398

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

McQuinn, Kristen B. W.; Skillman, Evan D.; Dolphin, Andrew E.

Accurate distances are fundamental for interpreting various measured properties of galaxies. Surprisingly, many of the best-studied spiral galaxies in the Local Volume have distance uncertainties that are much larger than can be achieved with modern observation techniques. Using Hubble Space Telescope optical imaging, we use the tip of the red giant branch method to measure the distances to six galaxies that are included in the Spitzer Infrared Nearby Galaxies Survey program and its offspring surveys. The sample includes M63, M74, NGC 1291, NGC 4559, NGC 4625, and NGC 5398. We compare our results with distances reported to these galaxies basedmore » on a variety of methods. Depending on the technique, there can be a wide range in published distances, particularly from the Tully–Fisher relation. In addition, differences between the planetary nebular luminosity function and surface brightness fluctuation techniques can vary between galaxies, suggesting inaccuracies that cannot be explained by systematics in the calibrations. Our distances improve upon previous results, as we use a well-calibrated, stable distance indicator, precision photometry in an optimally selected field of view, and a Bayesian maximum likelihood technique that reduces measurement uncertainties.« less

Quantitative Seismic Interpretation: Applying Rock Physics Tools to Reduce Interpretation Risk

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sondergeld, Carl H.

This book is divided into seven chapters that cover rock physics, statistical rock physics, seismic inversion techniques, case studies, and work flows. On balance, the emphasis is on rock physics. Included are 56 color figures that greatly help in the interpretation of more complicated plots and displays.The domain of rock physics falls between petrophysics and seismics. It is the basis for interpreting seismic observations and therefore is pivotal to the understanding of this book. The first two chapters are dedicated to this topic (109 pages).

Tokens: Facts and Interpretation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schmandt-Besserat, Denise

1986-01-01

Summarizes some of the major pieces of evidence concerning the archeological clay tokens, specifically the technique for their manufacture, their geographic distribution, chronology, and the context in which they are found. Discusses the interpretation of tokens as the first example of visible language, particularly as an antecedent of Sumerian…

Remote sensing of wildland resources: A state-of-the-art review

Treesearch

Robert C. Aldrich

1979-01-01

A review, with literature citations, of current remote sensing technology, applications, and costs for wildland resource management, including collection, interpretation, and processing of data gathered through photographic and nonphotographic techniques for classification and mapping, interpretive information for specific applications, measurement of resource...

Film-Making and the Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schwartz, Elizabeth

A guide to filmmaking techniques and the use of class-made films in the curriculum covers techniques of both animated and live-action films. The purposes of single concept, documentary, interpretive, and time-lapse films are discussed briefly. Production techniques covered include organization of personnel, scripting, filming, directing, editing,…

Characterizing multivariate decoding models based on correlated EEG spectral features

PubMed Central

McFarland, Dennis J.

2013-01-01

Objective Multivariate decoding methods are popular techniques for analysis of neurophysiological data. The present study explored potential interpretative problems with these techniques when predictors are correlated. Methods Data from sensorimotor rhythm-based cursor control experiments was analyzed offline with linear univariate and multivariate models. Features were derived from autoregressive (AR) spectral analysis of varying model order which produced predictors that varied in their degree of correlation (i.e., multicollinearity). Results The use of multivariate regression models resulted in much better prediction of target position as compared to univariate regression models. However, with lower order AR features interpretation of the spectral patterns of the weights was difficult. This is likely to be due to the high degree of multicollinearity present with lower order AR features. Conclusions Care should be exercised when interpreting the pattern of weights of multivariate models with correlated predictors. Comparison with univariate statistics is advisable. Significance While multivariate decoding algorithms are very useful for prediction their utility for interpretation may be limited when predictors are correlated. PMID:23466267

An orientation soil survey at the Pebble Cu-Au-Mo porphyry deposit, Alaska

USGS Publications Warehouse

Smith, Steven M.; Eppinger, Robert G.; Fey, David L.; Kelley, Karen D.; Giles, S.A.

2009-01-01

Soil samples were collected in 2007 and 2008 along three traverses across the giant Pebble Cu-Au-Mo porphyry deposit. Within each soil pit, four subsamples were collected following recommended protocols for each of ten commonly-used and proprietary leach/digestion techniques. The significance of geochemical patterns generated by these techniques was classified by visual inspection of plots showing individual element concentration by each analytical method along the 2007 traverse. A simple matrix by element versus method, populated with a value based on the significance classification, provides a method for ranking the utility of methods and elements at this deposit. The interpretation of a complex multi-element dataset derived from multiple analytical techniques is challenging. An example of vanadium results from a single leach technique is used to illustrate the several possible interpretations of the data.

Marine resources. [coastal processes, ice, oceanography, and living marine resources

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tilton, E. L., III

1974-01-01

Techniques have been developed for defining coastal circulation patterns using sediment as a natural tracer, allowing the formulation of new circulation concepts in some geographical areas and, in general, a better capability for defining the seasonal characteristics of coastal circulation. An analytical technique for measurement of absolute water depth based upon the ratios of two MSS channels has been developed. Suspended sediment has found wide use as a tracer, but a few investigators have reported limited success in measuring the type and amount of sediment quantitatively from ERTS-1 digital data. Significant progress has been made in developing techniques for using ERTS-1 data to locate, identify, and monitor sea and lake ice. Ice features greater than 70 meters in width can be detected, and both arctic and antarctic icebergs have been identified. In the application area of living marine resources, the use of ERTS-1 image-density patterns as a potential indicator of fish school location has been demonstrated for one coastal commercial resource, menhaden. ERTS-1 data have been used to locate ocean current boundaries using ERTS-1 image-density enhancement, and some techniques are under development for measurement of suspended particle concentration and chlorophyll concentration. The interrelationship of water color and surface characteristics (sea state) are also being studied to improve spectral and spatial interpretive techniques.

Using machine learning techniques to automate sky survey catalog generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fayyad, Usama M.; Roden, J. C.; Doyle, R. J.; Weir, Nicholas; Djorgovski, S. G.

1993-01-01

We describe the application of machine classification techniques to the development of an automated tool for the reduction of a large scientific data set. The 2nd Palomar Observatory Sky Survey provides comprehensive photographic coverage of the northern celestial hemisphere. The photographic plates are being digitized into images containing on the order of 10(exp 7) galaxies and 10(exp 8) stars. Since the size of this data set precludes manual analysis and classification of objects, our approach is to develop a software system which integrates independently developed techniques for image processing and data classification. Image processing routines are applied to identify and measure features of sky objects. Selected features are used to determine the classification of each object. GID3* and O-BTree, two inductive learning techniques, are used to automatically learn classification decision trees from examples. We describe the techniques used, the details of our specific application, and the initial encouraging results which indicate that our approach is well-suited to the problem. The benefits of the approach are increased data reduction throughput, consistency of classification, and the automated derivation of classification rules that will form an objective, examinable basis for classifying sky objects. Furthermore, astronomers will be freed from the tedium of an intensely visual task to pursue more challenging analysis and interpretation problems given automatically cataloged data.

Utility of correlation techniques in gravity and magnetic interpretation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chandler, V. W.; Koski, J. S.; Braile, L. W.; Hinze, W. J.

1977-01-01

Two methods of quantitative combined analysis, internal correspondence and clustering, are presented. Model studies are used to illustrate implementation and interpretation procedures of these methods, particularly internal correspondence. Analysis of the results of applying these methods to data from the midcontinent and a transcontinental profile show they can be useful in identifying crustal provinces, providing information on horizontal and vertical variations of physical properties over province size zones, validating long wave-length anomalies, and isolating geomagnetic field removal problems. Thus, these techniques are useful in considering regional data acquired by satellites.

Multistage, multiseasonal and multiband imagery to identify and qualify non-forest vegetation resources

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Driscoll, R. S.; Francis, R. E.

1970-01-01

A description of space and supporting aircraft photography for the interpretation and analyses of non-forest (shrubby and herbaceous) native vegetation is presented. The research includes the development of a multiple sampling technique to assign quantitative area values of specific plant community types included within an assigned space photograph map unit. Also, investigations of aerial film type, scale, and season of photography for identification and quantity measures of shrubby and herbaceous vegetation were conducted. Some work was done to develop automated interpretation techniques with film image density measurement devices.

Evaluating Validity Evidence for USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skills Data Gathering and Data Interpretation Scores: Does Performance Predict History-Taking and Physical Examination Ratings for First-Year Internal Medicine Residents?

PubMed

Cuddy, Monica M; Winward, Marcia L; Johnston, Mary M; Lipner, Rebecca S; Clauser, Brian E

2016-01-01

To add to the small body of validity research addressing whether scores from performance assessments of clinical skills are related to performance in supervised patient settings, the authors examined relationships between United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 2 Clinical Skills (CS) data gathering and data interpretation scores and subsequent performance in history taking and physical examination in internal medicine residency training. The sample included 6,306 examinees from 238 internal medicine residency programs who completed Step 2 CS for the first time in 2005 and whose performance ratings from their first year of residency training were available. Hierarchical linear modeling techniques were used to examine the relationships among Step 2 CS data gathering and data interpretation scores and history-taking and physical examination ratings. Step 2 CS data interpretation scores were positively related to both history-taking and physical examination ratings. Step 2 CS data gathering scores were not related to either history-taking or physical examination ratings after other USMLE scores were taken into account. Step 2 CS data interpretation scores provide useful information for predicting subsequent performance in history taking and physical examination in supervised practice and thus provide validity evidence for their intended use as an indication of readiness to enter supervised practice. The results show that there is less evidence to support the usefulness of Step 2 CS data gathering scores. This study provides important information for practitioners interested in Step 2 CS specifically or in performance assessments of medical students' clinical skills more generally.

[The effects of interpretation bias for social events and automatic thoughts on social anxiety].

PubMed

Aizawa, Naoki

2015-08-01

Many studies have demonstrated that individuals with social anxiety interpret ambiguous social situations negatively. It is, however, not clear whether the interpretation bias discriminatively contributes to social anxiety in comparison with depressive automatic thoughts. The present study investigated the effects of negative interpretation bias and automatic thoughts on social anxiety. The Social Intent Interpretation-Questionnaire, which measures the tendency to interpret ambiguous social events as implying other's rejective intents, the short Japanese version of the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire-Revised, and the Anthropophobic Tendency Scale were administered to 317 university students. Covariance structure analysis indicated that both rejective intent interpretation bias and negative automatic thoughts contributed to mental distress in social situations mediated by a sense of powerlessness and excessive concern about self and others in social situations. Positive automatic thoughts reduced mental distress. These results indicate the importance of interpretation bias and negative automatic thoughts in the development and maintenance of social anxiety. Implications for understanding of the cognitive features of social anxiety were discussed.

Errorless discrimination and picture fading as techniques for teaching sight words to TMR students.

PubMed

Walsh, B F; Lamberts, F

1979-03-01

The effectiveness of two approaches for teaching beginning sight words to 30 TMR students was compared. In Dorry and Zeaman's picture-fading technique, words are taught through association with pictures that are faded out over a series of trials, while in the Edmark program errorless-discrimination technique, words are taught through shaped sequences of visual and auditory--visual matching-to-sample, with the target word first appearing alone and eventually appearing with orthographically similar words. Students were instructed on two lists of 10 words each, one list in the picture-fading and one in the discrimination method, in a double counter-balanced, repeated-measures design. Covariance analysis on three measures (word identification, word recognition, and picture--word matching) showed highly significant differences between the two methods. Students' performance was better after instruction with the errorless-discrimination method than after instruction with the picture-fading method. The findings on picture fading were interpreted as indicating a possible failure of the shifting of control from picture to printed word that earlier researchers have hypothesized as occurring.

Describing Older Adults' Awareness of Fall Risk Using Situation Awareness Research Techniques: A Pilot Study.

PubMed

Azzarello, Jo; Hall, Beth

2016-07-01

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate efficacy of techniques adapted from situation awareness research for describing how older adults perceive and understand fall risk factors in the context of daily routine. Eleven older adults watched a video of an older woman performing daily activities. Thirteen intrinsic, extrinsic, and behavioral fall risks were embedded throughout the scenario. The video was periodically frozen/blanked from view while participants answered questions about their understanding of the situation and associated story elements. Participants perceived a variety of fall risk factors but did not necessarily interpret them as indicating fall risk. Many fall risks held non-fall meaning for participants (e.g., newspapers on the floor meant the woman liked to read). Although four participants readily identified a fall risk situation, seven did not until they were explicitly asked to consider safety. Study techniques were effective for describing situation awareness of fall risk and several suggestions for improvement are described. [Res Gerontol Nurs. 2016; 9(4):161-166.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.

Facilitating the exploitation of ERTS imagery using snow enhancement techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wobber, F. J. (Principal Investigator); Martin, K. R.; Sheffield, C.; Russell, O.; Amato, R. V.

1972-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. Analysis of all available (Gemini, Apollo, Nimbus, NASA aircraft) small scale snow covered imagery has been conducted to develop and refine snow enhancement techniques. A detailed photographic interpretation of ERTS-simulation imagery covering the Feather River/Lake Tahoe area was completed and the 580-680nm. band was determined to be the optimum band for fracture detection. ERTS-1 MSS bands 5 and 7 are best suited for detailed fracture mapping. The two bands should provide more complete fracture detail when utilized in combination. Analysis of early ERTS-1 data along with U-2 ERTS simulation imagery indicates that snow enhancement is a viable technique for geological fracture mapping. A wealth of fracture detail on snow-free terrain was noted during preliminary analysis of ERTS-1 images 1077-15005-6 and 7, 1077-15011-5 and 7, and 1079-15124-5 and 7. A direct comparison of data yield on snow-free versus snow-covered terrain will be conducted within these areas following receipt of snow-covered ERTS-1 imagery.

Quantitative Phase Fraction Detection in Organic Photovoltaic Materials through EELS Imaging

DOE PAGES

Dyck, Ondrej; Hu, Sheng; Das, Sanjib; ...

2015-11-24

Organic photovoltaic materials have recently seen intense interest from the research community. Improvements in device performance are occurring at an impressive rate; however, visualization of the active layer phase separation still remains a challenge. Our paper outlines the application of two electron energy-loss spectroscopic (EELS) imaging techniques that can complement and enhance current phase detection techniques. Specifically, the bulk plasmon peak position, often used to produce contrast between phases in energy filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM), is quantitatively mapped across a sample cross section. One complementary spectrum image capturing the carbon and sulfur core loss edges is compared with themore » plasmon peak map and found to agree quite well, indicating that carbon and sulfur density differences between the two phases also allows phase discrimination. Additionally, an analytical technique for determining absolute atomic areal density is used to produce an absolute carbon and sulfur areal density map. We also show how these maps may be re-interpreted as a phase ratio map, giving quantitative information about the purity of the phases within the junction.« less

An interdisciplinary analysis of ERTS data for Colorado mountain environments using ADP Techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoffer, R. M. (Principal Investigator)

1972-01-01

Author identified significant preliminary results from the Ouachita portion of the Texoma frame of data indicate many potentials in the analysis and interpretation of ERTS data. It is believed that one of the more significant aspects of this analysis sequence has been the investigation of a technique to relate ERTS analysis and surface observation analysis. At present a sequence involving (1) preliminary analysis based solely upon the spectral characteristics of the data, followed by (2) a surface observation mission to obtain visual information and oblique photography to particular points of interest in the test site area, appears to provide an extremely efficient technique for obtaining particularly meaningful surface observation data. Following such a procedure permits concentration on particular points of interest in the entire ERTS frame and thereby makes the surface observation data obtained to be particularly significant and meaningful. The analysis of the Texoma frame has also been significant from the standpoint of demonstrating a fast turn around analysis capability. Additionally, the analysis has shown the potential accuracy and degree of complexity of features that can be identified and mapped using ERTS data.

Early detection of disease: The correlation of the volatile organic profiles from patients with upper respiratory infections with subjects of normal profiles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zlatkis, A.

1979-01-01

A method is described whereby a transevaporator is used for sampling 60-100 microns of aqueous sample. Volatiles are stripped from the sample either by a stream of helium and collection on a porous polymer, Tenax, or by 0.8 ml of 2-chloropropane and collected on glass beads. The volatiles are thermally desorbed into a precolumn which is connected to a capillary gas chromatographic column for analysis. The technique is shown to be reproducible and suitable for determining chromatographic profiles for a wide variety of sample types. Using a transevaporator sampling technique, the volatile profiles from 70 microns of serum were obtained by capillary column gas chromatography. The complex chromatograms were interpreted by a combination of manual and computer techniques and a two peak ratio method devised for the classification of normal and virus infected sera. Using the K-Nearest Neighbor approach, 85.7 percent of the unknown samples were classified correctly. Some preliminary results indicate the possible use of the method for the assessment of virus susceptibility.

Effect of passive concentration as instructional set for training enhancement of EEG alpha.

PubMed

Knox, S S

1980-12-01

The technique of passive concentration, employed by autogenic training and Transcendental Meditation for achieving relaxation, was tested here as a technique for enhancing EEG alpha. Of 30 subjects displaying between 15% and 74% alpha in their resting EEGs recruited, 10 had to be eliminated. The remaining 20 constituted two groups. One was instructed only to attempt to maintain a tone indicating alpha but given no information about technique (control group). The other was given additional instructions in passive concentration (experimental group). Both were given four 5-min. trials a day for 4 consecutive days. Heart rate and skin conductance were measured to monitor autonomic arousal. The group receiving instructions in passive concentration had significantly less alpha than the control group, which did not increase amount of alpha above baseline. The reduction of alpha in the experimental group was interpreted as resulting from beginning long training periods (20 min. per day), a practice advocated by Transcendental Meditation but discouraged by autogenic training. It was concluded that the relevance of passive concentration for alpha enhancement is doubtful.

Standardizing Quality Assessment of Fused Remotely Sensed Images

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pohl, C.; Moellmann, J.; Fries, K.

2017-09-01

The multitude of available operational remote sensing satellites led to the development of many image fusion techniques to provide high spatial, spectral and temporal resolution images. The comparison of different techniques is necessary to obtain an optimized image for the different applications of remote sensing. There are two approaches in assessing image quality: 1. Quantitatively by visual interpretation and 2. Quantitatively using image quality indices. However an objective comparison is difficult due to the fact that a visual assessment is always subject and a quantitative assessment is done by different criteria. Depending on the criteria and indices the result varies. Therefore it is necessary to standardize both processes (qualitative and quantitative assessment) in order to allow an objective image fusion quality evaluation. Various studies have been conducted at the University of Osnabrueck (UOS) to establish a standardized process to objectively compare fused image quality. First established image fusion quality assessment protocols, i.e. Quality with No Reference (QNR) and Khan's protocol, were compared on varies fusion experiments. Second the process of visual quality assessment was structured and standardized with the aim to provide an evaluation protocol. This manuscript reports on the results of the comparison and provides recommendations for future research.

Minimally invasive treatment of ureteropelvic junction obstruction: a critical analysis of results.

PubMed

Eden, Christopher G

2007-10-01

To analyse the indications and long-term results of endoscopic and minimal access approaches for the treatment of ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction and to compare them to open surgery. A review of the literature from 1950 to January 2007 was conducted using the Ovid Medline database. A lack of standardisation of techniques used to diagnose UPJ obstruction and to follow up treated patients introduces a degree of inaccuracy in interpreting the success rates of the various modalities of treatment. However, there is no indication that any one of these techniques is affected by this to a greater or lesser extent than another. Open pyeloplasty achieves very good (90-100% success) results, endopyelotomy and balloon disruption of the UPJ fail to match these results by 15-20%, and minimal access pyeloplasty produces results that are at least as good as those of open surgery but with the advantages of a minimal access approach. Minimal access pyeloplasty is likely to gradually replace endopyelotomy and balloon disruption of the UPJ for the treatment of UPJ obstruction. The much higher cost of robotic pyeloplasty and greater availability of laparoscopic expertise in teaching centres are likely to limit the dissemination of robotic pyeloplasty.

A field comparison of multiple techniques to quantify groundwater - surface-water interactions

USGS Publications Warehouse

González-Pinzón, Ricardo; Ward, Adam S; Hatch, Christine E; Wlostowski, Adam N; Singha, Kamini; Gooseff, Michael N.; Haggerty, Roy; Harvey, Judson; Cirpka, Olaf A; Brock, James T

2015-01-01

Groundwater–surface-water (GW-SW) interactions in streams are difficult to quantify because of heterogeneity in hydraulic and reactive processes across a range of spatial and temporal scales. The challenge of quantifying these interactions has led to the development of several techniques, from centimeter-scale probes to whole-system tracers, including chemical, thermal, and electrical methods. We co-applied conservative and smart reactive solute-tracer tests, measurement of hydraulic heads, distributed temperature sensing, vertical profiles of solute tracer and temperature in the stream bed, and electrical resistivity imaging in a 450-m reach of a 3rd-order stream. GW-SW interactions were not spatially expansive, but were high in flux through a shallow hyporheic zone surrounding the reach. NaCl and resazurin tracers suggested different surface–subsurface exchange patterns in the upper ⅔ and lower ⅓ of the reach. Subsurface sampling of tracers and vertical thermal profiles quantified relatively high fluxes through a 10- to 20-cm deep hyporheic zone with chemical reactivity of the resazurin tracer indicated at 3-, 6-, and 9-cm sampling depths. Monitoring of hydraulic gradients along transects with MINIPOINT streambed samplers starting ∼40 m from the stream indicated that groundwater discharge prevented development of a larger hyporheic zone, which progressively decreased from the stream thalweg toward the banks. Distributed temperature sensing did not detect extensive inflow of ground water to the stream, and electrical resistivity imaging showed limited large-scale hyporheic exchange. We recommend choosing technique(s) based on: 1) clear definition of the questions to be addressed (physical, biological, or chemical processes), 2) explicit identification of the spatial and temporal scales to be covered and those required to provide an appropriate context for interpretation, and 3) maximizing generation of mechanistic understanding and reducing costs of implementing multiple techniques through collaborative research.

Intraductal biliopancreatic imaging: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) technology review.

PubMed

Tringali, Andrea; Lemmers, Arnaud; Meves, Volker; Terheggen, Grischa; Pohl, Jürgen; Manfredi, Guido; Häfner, Michael; Costamagna, Guido; Devière, Jacques; Neuhaus, Horst; Caillol, Fabrice; Giovannini, Marc; Hassan, Cesare; Dumonceau, Jean-Marc

2015-08-01

This technology review expresses the current view of the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) on the available techniques for intraductal biliopancreatic imaging. The three cholangioscopy techniques are described: the "dual-operator" and " single-operator" mother-baby approaches using dedicated instruments, and the "direct" technique using currently available ultrathin gastroscopes. The mother-baby method is standardized and reproducible, while direct cholangioscopy is technically demanding and its safety requires further evaluation. As well as direct visualization of the bile ducts, cholangioscopy has the further advantage of allowing targeted biopsy. Image quality is still suboptimal for single-operator cholangioscopy, while the other techniques have achieved adequately detailed imaging. The costs of mother-baby cholangioscopy are high and its application in clinical practice should be restricted to selected cases (i.e. indeterminate biliary strictures/intraluminal lesions, difficult biliary stones) and to the setting of tertiary care centers. Peroral pancreatoscopy may find an indication in situations where other imaging modalities (mainly EUS) are inconclusive (i.e. delineation of main duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia extension, sampling of indeterminate main pancreatic duct strictures). Intraductal ultrasonography (IDUS) has a poorer performance than EUS in the staging of pancreatic malignancies and can increase the risk of pancreatitis. A promising indication for IDUS could be the evaluation of indeterminate biliary strictures and ampullary tumors. Probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) of the bile ducts is a difficult and expensive technique. Appropriate training needs to be established, since interpretation of images is challenging. pCLE can be an important diagnostic tool in the setting of indeterminate biliary strictures. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

A Quantitative Technique for Beginning Microscopists.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sundberg, Marshall D.

1984-01-01

Stereology is the study of three-dimensional objects through the interpretation of two-dimensional images. Stereological techniques used in introductory botany to quantitatively examine changes in leaf anatomy in response to different environments are discussed. (JN)

Integration of geological remote-sensing techniques in subsurface analysis

USGS Publications Warehouse

Taranik, James V.; Trautwein, Charles M.

1976-01-01

Geological remote sensing is defined as the study of the Earth utilizing electromagnetic radiation which is either reflected or emitted from its surface in wavelengths ranging from 0.3 micrometre to 3 metres. The natural surface of the Earth is composed of a diversified combination of surface cover types, and geologists must understand the characteristics of surface cover types to successfully evaluate remotely-sensed data. In some areas landscape surface cover changes throughout the year, and analysis of imagery acquired at different times of year can yield additional geological information. Integration of different scales of analysis allows landscape features to be effectively interpreted. Interpretation of the static elements displayed on imagery is referred to as an image interpretation. Image interpretation is dependent upon: (1) the geologist's understanding of the fundamental aspects of image formation, and (2.) his ability to detect, delineate, and classify image radiometric data; recognize radiometric patterns; and identify landscape surface characteristics as expressed on imagery. A geologic interpretation integrates surface characteristics of the landscape with subsurface geologic relationships. Development of a geologic interpretation from imagery is dependent upon: (1) the geologist's ability to interpret geomorphic processes from their static surface expression as landscape characteristics on imagery, (2) his ability to conceptualize the dynamic processes responsible for the evolution 6f interpreted geologic relationships (his ability to develop geologic models). The integration of geologic remote-sensing techniques in subsurface analysis is illustrated by development of an exploration model for ground water in the Tucson area of Arizona, and by the development of an exploration model for mineralization in southwest Idaho.

Possible Extent and Depth of Salt Contamination in Ground Water Using Geophysical Techniques, Red River Aluminum Site, Stamps, Arkansas, April 2003

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stanton, Gregory P.; Kress, Wade; Hobza, Christopher M.; Czarnecki, John B.

2003-01-01

A surface-geophysical investigation of the Red River Aluminum site at Stamps, Arkansas, was conducted in cooperation with the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality to determine the possible extent and depth of saltwater contamination. Water-level measurements indicate the distance to water level below land surface ranges from about 1.2 to 3.9 feet (0.37 to 1.19 meters) in shallow monitor wells and about 10.5 to 17.1 feet (3.20 to 5.21 meters) in deeper monitoring wells. The two-dimensional, direct-current resistivity method identified resistivities less than 5 ohm-meters which indicated possible areas of salt contamination occurring in near-surface or deep subsurface ground water along four resistivity lines within the site. One line located east of the site yielded data that demonstrated no effect of salt contamination. Sections from two of the five data sets were modeled. The input model grids were created on the basis of the known geology and the results and interpretations of borehole geophysical data. The clay-rich Cook Mountain Formation is modeled as 25 ohm-meters and extends from 21 meters (68.9 feet) below land surface to the bottom of the model (about 52 meters (170.6 feet)). The models were used to refine interpretation of the resistivity data and to determine extent of saltwater contamination and depth to the Cook Mountain Formation. Data from the resistivity lines indicate both near-surface and subsurface saltwater contamination. The near-surface contamination appears as low resistivity (less than 5 ohm-meters) on four of the five resistivity lines, extending up to 775 meters (2,542.8 feet) horizontally in a line that traverses the entire site south to north. Model resistivity data indicate that the total depth of saltwater contamination is about 18 meters (59 feet) below land surface. Data from four resistivity lines identified areas containing low resistivity anomalies interpreted as possible salt contamination. A fifth line located just east of the site showed no saltwater contamination.

Modeling and managing risk early in software development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Briand, Lionel C.; Thomas, William M.; Hetmanski, Christopher J.

1993-01-01

In order to improve the quality of the software development process, we need to be able to build empirical multivariate models based on data collectable early in the software process. These models need to be both useful for prediction and easy to interpret, so that remedial actions may be taken in order to control and optimize the development process. We present an automated modeling technique which can be used as an alternative to regression techniques. We show how it can be used to facilitate the identification and aid the interpretation of the significant trends which characterize 'high risk' components in several Ada systems. Finally, we evaluate the effectiveness of our technique based on a comparison with logistic regression based models.

Application of AIS Technology to Forest Mapping

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yool, S. R.; Star, J. L.

1985-01-01

Concerns about environmental effects of large scale deforestation have prompted efforts to map forests over large areas using various remote sensing data and image processing techniques. Basic research on the spectral characteristics of forest vegetation are required to form a basis for development of new techniques, and for image interpretation. Examination of LANDSAT data and image processing algorithms over a portion of boreal forest have demonstrated the complexity of relations between the various expressions of forest canopies, environmental variability, and the relative capacities of different image processing algorithms to achieve high classification accuracies under these conditions. Airborne Imaging Spectrometer (AIS) data may in part provide the means to interpret the responses of standard data and techniques to the vegetation based on its relatively high spectral resolution.

The ERTS-1 investigation (ER-600). Volume 2: ERTS-1 coastal/estuarine analysis. [Galveston Bay, Texas

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Erb, R. B.

1974-01-01

The Coastal Analysis Team of the Johnson Space Center conducted a 1-year investigation of ERTS-1 MSS data to determine its usefulness in coastal zone management. Galveston Bay, Texas, was the study area for evaluating both conventional image interpretation and computer-aided techniques. There was limited success in detecting, identifying and measuring areal extent of water bodies, turbidity zones, phytoplankton blooms, salt marshes, grasslands, swamps, and low wetlands using image interpretation techniques. Computer-aided techniques were generally successful in identifying these features. Aerial measurement of salt marshes accuracies ranged from 89 to 99 percent. Overall classification accuracy of all study sites was 89 percent for Level 1 and 75 percent for Level 2.

An investigation on task-technology fit of mobile nursing information systems for nursing performance.

PubMed

Hsiao, Ju-Ling; Chen, Rai-Fu

2012-05-01

This study investigates factors affecting the fit between nursing tasks and mobile nursing information systems and the relationships between the task-technology fit of mobile nursing information systems and nurse performance from the perspective of task-technology fit. Survey research recruited nursing staffs as subjects from selected case hospital. A total of 310 questionnaires were sent out, and 219 copies were obtained, indicating a valid response rate of 70.6%. Collected data were analyzed using the structural equation modeling technique. Our study found that dependence tasks have positive effects on information acquisition (γ=0.234, P<.05) and information identification (γ=0.478, P<.001), and independent tasks have significant effects on information acquisition (γ=0.213, P<.05). Therefore, the introduction of mobile nursing information systems in assisting nursing practices can help facilitate both independent and dependent nursing tasks. Our study discovered that the supporting functions of mobile nursing information systems have positive effects on information integration and interpretation (γ=0.365, P<.001), as well as information acquisition (γ=0.253, P<.05). The service supports of mobile nursing information systems have positive effects on information acquisition (γ=0.318, P<.001) and information integration and interpretation (γ=0.143, P<.01). Furthermore, information identification (β=.055, P<.05), information acquisition (β=.176, P<.001), and information integration and interpretation (β=.706, P<.001) provided using mobile nursing information systems have positive effects on nursing performance, indicating 83.2% of totally explained variance. As shown, the use of mobile nursing information systems could provide nursing staffs with real-time and accurate information to increase efficiency and effectiveness in patient-care duties, further improving nursing performance.

The validity of the multi-informant approach to assessing child and adolescent mental health.

PubMed

De Los Reyes, Andres; Augenstein, Tara M; Wang, Mo; Thomas, Sarah A; Drabick, Deborah A G; Burgers, Darcy E; Rabinowitz, Jill

2015-07-01

Child and adolescent patients may display mental health concerns within some contexts and not others (e.g., home vs. school). Thus, understanding the specific contexts in which patients display concerns may assist mental health professionals in tailoring treatments to patients' needs. Consequently, clinical assessments often include reports from multiple informants who vary in the contexts in which they observe patients' behavior (e.g., patients, parents, teachers). Previous meta-analyses indicate that informants' reports correlate at low-to-moderate magnitudes. However, is it valid to interpret low correspondence among reports as indicating that patients display concerns in some contexts and not others? We meta-analyzed 341 studies published between 1989 and 2014 that reported cross-informant correspondence estimates, and observed low-to-moderate correspondence (mean internalizing: r = .25; mean externalizing: r = .30; mean overall: r = .28). Informant pair, mental health domain, and measurement method moderated magnitudes of correspondence. These robust findings have informed the development of concepts for interpreting multi-informant assessments, allowing researchers to draw specific predictions about the incremental and construct validity of these assessments. In turn, we critically evaluated research on the incremental and construct validity of the multi-informant approach to clinical child and adolescent assessment. In so doing, we identify crucial gaps in knowledge for future research, and provide recommendations for "best practices" in using and interpreting multi-informant assessments in clinical work and research. This article has important implications for developing personalized approaches to clinical assessment, with the goal of informing techniques for tailoring treatments to target the specific contexts where patients display concerns. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2015 APA, all rights reserved).

Non-local means denoising of dynamic PET images.

PubMed

Dutta, Joyita; Leahy, Richard M; Li, Quanzheng

2013-01-01

Dynamic positron emission tomography (PET), which reveals information about both the spatial distribution and temporal kinetics of a radiotracer, enables quantitative interpretation of PET data. Model-based interpretation of dynamic PET images by means of parametric fitting, however, is often a challenging task due to high levels of noise, thus necessitating a denoising step. The objective of this paper is to develop and characterize a denoising framework for dynamic PET based on non-local means (NLM). NLM denoising computes weighted averages of voxel intensities assigning larger weights to voxels that are similar to a given voxel in terms of their local neighborhoods or patches. We introduce three key modifications to tailor the original NLM framework to dynamic PET. Firstly, we derive similarities from less noisy later time points in a typical PET acquisition to denoise the entire time series. Secondly, we use spatiotemporal patches for robust similarity computation. Finally, we use a spatially varying smoothing parameter based on a local variance approximation over each spatiotemporal patch. To assess the performance of our denoising technique, we performed a realistic simulation on a dynamic digital phantom based on the Digimouse atlas. For experimental validation, we denoised [Formula: see text] PET images from a mouse study and a hepatocellular carcinoma patient study. We compared the performance of NLM denoising with four other denoising approaches - Gaussian filtering, PCA, HYPR, and conventional NLM based on spatial patches. The simulation study revealed significant improvement in bias-variance performance achieved using our NLM technique relative to all the other methods. The experimental data analysis revealed that our technique leads to clear improvement in contrast-to-noise ratio in Patlak parametric images generated from denoised preclinical and clinical dynamic images, indicating its ability to preserve image contrast and high intensity details while lowering the background noise variance.

Random forest meteorological normalisation models for Swiss PM10 trend analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grange, Stuart K.; Carslaw, David C.; Lewis, Alastair C.; Boleti, Eirini; Hueglin, Christoph

2018-05-01

Meteorological normalisation is a technique which accounts for changes in meteorology over time in an air quality time series. Controlling for such changes helps support robust trend analysis because there is more certainty that the observed trends are due to changes in emissions or chemistry, not changes in meteorology. Predictive random forest models (RF; a decision tree machine learning technique) were grown for 31 air quality monitoring sites in Switzerland using surface meteorological, synoptic scale, boundary layer height, and time variables to explain daily PM10 concentrations. The RF models were used to calculate meteorologically normalised trends which were formally tested and evaluated using the Theil-Sen estimator. Between 1997 and 2016, significantly decreasing normalised PM10 trends ranged between -0.09 and -1.16 µg m-3 yr-1 with urban traffic sites experiencing the greatest mean decrease in PM10 concentrations at -0.77 µg m-3 yr-1. Similar magnitudes have been reported for normalised PM10 trends for earlier time periods in Switzerland which indicates PM10 concentrations are continuing to decrease at similar rates as in the past. The ability for RF models to be interpreted was leveraged using partial dependence plots to explain the observed trends and relevant physical and chemical processes influencing PM10 concentrations. Notably, two regimes were suggested by the models which cause elevated PM10 concentrations in Switzerland: one related to poor dispersion conditions and a second resulting from high rates of secondary PM generation in deep, photochemically active boundary layers. The RF meteorological normalisation process was found to be robust, user friendly and simple to implement, and readily interpretable which suggests the technique could be useful in many air quality exploratory data analysis situations.

An Analysis of Psycho-Educational Profiles of Elementary Students Referred for Special Education Consideration Due to Literacy Difficulties

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bowers, Amy M.

2010-01-01

This study examined the results of a uniquely constructed literacy assessment technique, combining Dehn's (2006) interpretation of psychological processing assessment and the Reading Rockets (Greater Washington Educational Telecommunications Association, Inc., 2005) interpretation of academic achievement. The study employed a quantitative…

Executive-Attentional Uncertainty Responses by Rhesus Macaques ("Macaca mulatta")

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, J. David; Coutinho, Mariana V. C.; Church, Barbara A.; Beran, Michael J.

2013-01-01

The uncertainty response has been influential in studies of human perception, and it is crucial in the growing research literature that explores animal metacognition. However, the uncertainty response's interpretation is still sharply debated. The authors sought to clarify this interpretation using the dissociative technique of cognitive loads…

Automatic reference selection for quantitative EEG interpretation: identification of diffuse/localised activity and the active earlobe reference, iterative detection of the distribution of EEG rhythms.

PubMed

Wang, Bei; Wang, Xingyu; Ikeda, Akio; Nagamine, Takashi; Shibasaki, Hiroshi; Nakamura, Masatoshi

2014-01-01

EEG (Electroencephalograph) interpretation is important for the diagnosis of neurological disorders. The proper adjustment of the montage can highlight the EEG rhythm of interest and avoid false interpretation. The aim of this study was to develop an automatic reference selection method to identify a suitable reference. The results may contribute to the accurate inspection of the distribution of EEG rhythms for quantitative EEG interpretation. The method includes two pre-judgements and one iterative detection module. The diffuse case is initially identified by pre-judgement 1 when intermittent rhythmic waveforms occur over large areas along the scalp. The earlobe reference or averaged reference is adopted for the diffuse case due to the effect of the earlobe reference depending on pre-judgement 2. An iterative detection algorithm is developed for the localised case when the signal is distributed in a small area of the brain. The suitable averaged reference is finally determined based on the detected focal and distributed electrodes. The presented technique was applied to the pathological EEG recordings of nine patients. One example of the diffuse case is introduced by illustrating the results of the pre-judgements. The diffusely intermittent rhythmic slow wave is identified. The effect of active earlobe reference is analysed. Two examples of the localised case are presented, indicating the results of the iterative detection module. The focal and distributed electrodes are detected automatically during the repeating algorithm. The identification of diffuse and localised activity was satisfactory compared with the visual inspection. The EEG rhythm of interest can be highlighted using a suitable selected reference. The implementation of an automatic reference selection method is helpful to detect the distribution of an EEG rhythm, which can improve the accuracy of EEG interpretation during both visual inspection and automatic interpretation. Copyright © 2013 IPEM. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Measuring stereoscopic image quality experience with interpretation based quality methodology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Häkkinen, Jukka; Kawai, Takashi; Takatalo, Jari; Leisti, Tuomas; Radun, Jenni; Hirsaho, Anni; Nyman, Göte

2008-01-01

Stereoscopic technologies have developed significantly in recent years. These advances require also more understanding of the experiental dimensions of stereoscopic contents. In this article we describe experiments in which we explore the experiences that viewers have when they view stereoscopic contents. We used eight different contents that were shown to the participants in a paired comparison experiment where the task of the participants was to compare the same content in stereoscopic and non-stereoscopic form. The participants indicated their preference but were also interviewed about the arguments they used when making the decision. By conducting a qualitative analysis of the interview texts we categorized the significant experiental factors related to viewing stereoscopic material. Our results indicate that reality-likeness as well as artificiality were often used as arguments in comparing the stereoscopic materials. Also, there were more emotional terms in the descriptions of the stereoscopic films, which might indicate that the stereoscopic projection technique enhances the emotions conveyed by the film material. Finally, the participants indicated that the three-dimensional material required longer presentation time, as there were more interesting details to see.

Applications of three-dimensional modeling in electromagnetic exploration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pellerin, Louise Donna

Numerical modeling is used in geophysical exploration to understand physical mechanisms of a geophysical method, compare different exploration techniques, and interpret field data. Exploring the physics of a geophysical response enhances the geophysicist's insight, resulting in better survey design and interpretation. Comparing exploration methods numerically can eliminate the use of a technique that cannot resolve the exploration target. Interpreting field data to determine the structure of the earth is the ultimate goal of the exploration geophysicist. Applications of three-dimensional (3-D) electromagnetic (EM) modeling in mining, geothermal and environmental exploration demonstrate the importance of numerical modeling as a geophysical tool. Detection of a confined, conductive target with a vertical electric source (VES) can be an effective technique if properly used. The vertical magnetic field response is due solely to multi-dimensional structures, and current channeling is the dominant mechanism. A VES is deployed in a bore hole, hence the orientation of the hole is critical to the response. A deviation of more than a degree from the vertical can result in a host response that overwhelms the target response. Only the in-phase response at low frequencies can be corrected to a purely vertical response. The geothermal system studied consists of a near-surface clay cap and a deep reservoir. The magnetotelluric (MT), controlled-source audio magnetotelluric (CSAMT), long-offset time-domain electromagnetic (LOTEM) and central-loop transient electromagnetic (TEM) methods are appraised for their ability to detect the reservoir and delineate the cap. The reservoir anomaly is supported by boundary charges and therefore is detectable only with deep sounding electric field measurement MT and LOTEM. The cap is easily delineated with all techniques. For interpretation I developed an approximate 3-D inversion that refines a 1-D interpretation by removing lateral distortions. An iterative inverse procedure invokes EM reciprocity while operating on a localized portion of the survey area thereby greatly reducing the computational requirements. The scheme is illustrated with three synthetic data sets representative of problems in environmental geophysics.

Hepatocellular carcinoma: Advances in diagnostic imaging.

PubMed

Sun, Haoran; Song, Tianqiang

2015-10-01

Thanks to the growing knowledge on biological behaviors of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC), as well as continuous improvement in imaging techniques and experienced interpretation of imaging features of the nodules in cirrhotic liver, the detection and characterization of HCC has improved in the past decade. A number of practice guidelines for imaging diagnosis have been developed to reduce interpretation variability and standardize management of HCC, and they are constantly updated with advances in imaging techniques and evidence based data from clinical series. In this article, we strive to review the imaging techniques and the characteristic features of hepatocellular carcinoma associated with cirrhotic liver, with emphasis on the diagnostic value of advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques and utilization of hepatocyte-specific MRI contrast agents. We also briefly describe the concept of liver imaging reporting and data systems and discuss the consensus and controversy of major practice guidelines.

Application of multivariable statistical techniques in plant-wide WWTP control strategies analysis.

PubMed

Flores, X; Comas, J; Roda, I R; Jiménez, L; Gernaey, K V

2007-01-01

The main objective of this paper is to present the application of selected multivariable statistical techniques in plant-wide wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) control strategies analysis. In this study, cluster analysis (CA), principal component analysis/factor analysis (PCA/FA) and discriminant analysis (DA) are applied to the evaluation matrix data set obtained by simulation of several control strategies applied to the plant-wide IWA Benchmark Simulation Model No 2 (BSM2). These techniques allow i) to determine natural groups or clusters of control strategies with a similar behaviour, ii) to find and interpret hidden, complex and casual relation features in the data set and iii) to identify important discriminant variables within the groups found by the cluster analysis. This study illustrates the usefulness of multivariable statistical techniques for both analysis and interpretation of the complex multicriteria data sets and allows an improved use of information for effective evaluation of control strategies.

Using 3D visualization and seismic attributes to improve structural and stratigraphic resolution of reservoirs

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

Kerr, J.; Jones, G.L.

1996-01-01

Recent advances in hardware and software have given the interpreter and engineer new ways to view 3D seismic data and well bore information. Recent papers have also highlighted the use of various statistics and seismic attributes. By combining new 3D rendering technologies with recent trends in seismic analysis, the interpreter can improve the structural and stratigraphic resolution of hydrocarbon reservoirs. This paper gives several examples using 3D visualization to better define both the structural and stratigraphic aspects of several different structural types from around the world. Statistics, 3D visualization techniques and rapid animation are used to show complex faulting andmore » detailed channel systems. These systems would be difficult to map using either 2D or 3D data with conventional interpretation techniques.« less

Using 3D visualization and seismic attributes to improve structural and stratigraphic resolution of reservoirs

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

Kerr, J.; Jones, G.L.

1996-12-31

Recent advances in hardware and software have given the interpreter and engineer new ways to view 3D seismic data and well bore information. Recent papers have also highlighted the use of various statistics and seismic attributes. By combining new 3D rendering technologies with recent trends in seismic analysis, the interpreter can improve the structural and stratigraphic resolution of hydrocarbon reservoirs. This paper gives several examples using 3D visualization to better define both the structural and stratigraphic aspects of several different structural types from around the world. Statistics, 3D visualization techniques and rapid animation are used to show complex faulting andmore » detailed channel systems. These systems would be difficult to map using either 2D or 3D data with conventional interpretation techniques.« less

Causal Indicators Can Help to Interpret Factors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bentler, Peter M.

2016-01-01

The latent factor in a causal indicator model is no more than the latent factor of the factor part of the model. However, if the causal indicator variables are well-understood and help to improve the prediction of individuals' factor scores, they can help to interpret the meaning of the latent factor. Aguirre-Urreta, Rönkkö, and Marakas (2016)…

Pen-based Interfaces for Engineering and Education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stahovich, Thomas F.

Sketches are an important problem-solving tool in many fields. This is particularly true of engineering design, where sketches facilitate creativity by providing an efficient medium for expressing ideas. However, despite the importance of sketches in engineering practice, current engineering software still relies on traditional mouse and keyboard interfaces, with little or no capabilities to handle free-form sketch input. With recent advances in machine-interpretation techniques, it is now becoming possible to create practical interpretation-based interfaces for such software. In this chapter, we report on our efforts to create interpretation techniques to enable pen-based engineering applications. We describe work on two fundamental sketch understanding problems. The first is sketch parsing, the task of clustering pen strokes or geometric primitives into individual symbols. The second is symbol recognition, the task of classifying symbols once they have been located by a parser. We have used the techniques that we have developed to construct several pen-based engineering analysis tools. These are used here as examples to illustrate our methods. We have also begun to use our techniques to create pen-based tutoring systems that scaffold students in solving problems in the same way they would ordinarily solve them with paper and pencil. The chapter concludes with a brief discussion of these systems.

Accelerometer Data Analysis and Presentation Techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, Melissa J. B.; Hrovat, Kenneth; McPherson, Kevin; Moskowitz, Milton E.; Reckart, Timothy

1997-01-01

The NASA Lewis Research Center's Principal Investigator Microgravity Services project analyzes Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment and Space Acceleration Measurement System data for principal investigators of microgravity experiments. Principal investigators need a thorough understanding of data analysis techniques so that they can request appropriate analyses to best interpret accelerometer data. Accelerometer data sampling and filtering is introduced along with the related topics of resolution and aliasing. Specific information about the Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment and Space Acceleration Measurement System data sampling and filtering is given. Time domain data analysis techniques are discussed and example environment interpretations are made using plots of acceleration versus time, interval average acceleration versus time, interval root-mean-square acceleration versus time, trimmean acceleration versus time, quasi-steady three dimensional histograms, and prediction of quasi-steady levels at different locations. An introduction to Fourier transform theory and windowing is provided along with specific analysis techniques and data interpretations. The frequency domain analyses discussed are power spectral density versus frequency, cumulative root-mean-square acceleration versus frequency, root-mean-square acceleration versus frequency, one-third octave band root-mean-square acceleration versus frequency, and power spectral density versus frequency versus time (spectrogram). Instructions for accessing NASA Lewis Research Center accelerometer data and related information using the internet are provided.

Optimal control of a harmonic oscillator: Economic interpretations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janová, Jitka; Hampel, David

2013-10-01

Optimal control is a popular technique for modelling and solving the dynamic decision problems in economics. A standard interpretation of the criteria function and Lagrange multipliers in the profit maximization problem is well known. On a particular example, we aim to a deeper understanding of the possible economic interpretations of further mathematical and solution features of the optimal control problem: we focus on the solution of the optimal control problem for harmonic oscillator serving as a model for Phillips business cycle. We discuss the economic interpretations of arising mathematical objects with respect to well known reasoning for these in other problems.

Novel approach to documenting expert ECG interpretation using eye tracking technology: a historical and biographical representation of the late Dr Rory Childers in action.

PubMed

Bond, R R; Kligfield, P D; Zhu, T; Finlay, D D; Drew, B; Guldenring, D; Breen, C; Clifford, G D; Wagner, G S

2015-01-01

The 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is a complex set of cardiac signals that require a high degree of skill and clinical knowledge to interpret. Therefore, it is imperative to record and understand how expert readers interpret the 12-lead ECG. This short paper showcases how eye tracking technology and audio data can be fused together and visualised to gain insight into the interpretation techniques employed by an eminent ECG champion, namely Dr Rory Childers. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Semantic Space as a Metapopulation System: Modelling the Wikipedia Information Flow Network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masucci, A. Paolo; Kalampokis, Alkiviadis; Eguíluz, Víctor M.; Hernández-García, Emilio

The meaning of a word can be defined as an indefinite set of interpretants, which are other words that circumscribe the semantic content of the word they represent (Derrida 1982). In the same way each interpretant has a set of interpretants representing it and so on. Hence the indefinite chain of meaning assumes a rhizomatic shape that can be represented and analysed via the modern techniques of network theory (Dorogovtsev and Mendes 2013).

Assessment of air quality in Haora River basin using fuzzy multiple-attribute decision making techniques.

PubMed

Singh, Ajit Pratap; Chakrabarti, Sumanta; Kumar, Sumit; Singh, Anjaney

2017-08-01

This paper deals with assessment of air quality in Haora River basin using two techniques. Initially, air quality indices were evaluated using a modified EPA method. The indices were also evaluated using a fuzzy comprehensive assessment (FCA) method. The results obtained from the fuzzy comprehensive assessment method were compared to that obtained from the modified EPA method. To illustrate the applicability of the methodology proposed herein, a case study has been presented. Air samples have been collected at 10 sampling sites located along Haora River. Six important air pollutants, namely, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, suspended particulate matter (SPM), PM 10 , and lead, were monitored continuously, and air quality maps were generated on the GIS platform. Comparison of the methodologies has clearly highlighted superiority and robustness of the fuzzy comprehensive assessment method in determining air quality indices under study. It has effectively addressed the inherent uncertainties involved in the evaluation, modeling, and interpretation of sampling data, which was beyond the scope of the traditional weighted approaches employed otherwise. The FCA method is robust and prepares a credible platform of air quality evaluation and identification, in face of the uncertainties that remain eclipsed in the traditional approaches like the modified EPA method. The insights gained through the present study are believed to be of pivotal significance in guiding the development and implementation of effective environmental remedial action plans in the study area.

Videodensitometric Methods for Cardiac Output Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mischi, Massimo; Kalker, Ton; Korsten, Erik

2003-12-01

Cardiac output is often measured by indicator dilution techniques, usually based on dye or cold saline injections. Developments of more stable ultrasound contrast agents (UCA) are leading to new noninvasive indicator dilution methods. However, several problems concerning the interpretation of dilution curves as detected by ultrasound transducers have arisen. This paper presents a method for blood flow measurements based on UCA dilution. Dilution curves are determined by real-time densitometric analysis of the video output of an ultrasound scanner and are automatically fitted by the Local Density Random Walk model. A new fitting algorithm based on multiple linear regression is developed. Calibration, that is, the relation between videodensity and UCA concentration, is modelled by in vitro experimentation. The flow measurement system is validated by in vitro perfusion of SonoVue contrast agent. The results show an accurate dilution curve fit and flow estimation with determination coefficient larger than 0.95 and 0.99, respectively.

Single-molecule analysis of steroid receptor and cofactor action in living cells

PubMed Central

Paakinaho, Ville; Presman, Diego M.; Ball, David A.; Johnson, Thomas A.; Schiltz, R. Louis; Levitt, Peter; Mazza, Davide; Morisaki, Tatsuya; Karpova, Tatiana S.; Hager, Gordon L.

2017-01-01

Population-based assays have been employed extensively to investigate the interactions of transcription factors (TFs) with chromatin and are often interpreted in terms of static and sequential binding. However, fluorescence microscopy techniques reveal a more dynamic binding behaviour of TFs in live cells. Here we analyse the strengths and limitations of in vivo single-molecule tracking and performed a comprehensive analysis on the intranuclear dwell times of four steroid receptors and a number of known cofactors. While the absolute residence times estimates can depend on imaging acquisition parameters due to sampling bias, our results indicate that only a small proportion of factors are specifically bound to chromatin at any given time. Interestingly, the glucocorticoid receptor and its cofactors affect each other’s dwell times in an asymmetric manner. Overall, our data indicate transient rather than stable TF-cofactors chromatin interactions at response elements at the single-molecule level. PMID:28635963

New technique for study on isotopic fractionation between sea water and foraminiferal growing processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cang, Shuxi; Shackleton, N. J.

1990-12-01

The stable isotopic δ18O and δ13C composition of foraminiferal shell calcite varies as a function of many factors including temperature and salinity. In order to understand and interpret the variations in the isotopic composition of foraminiferal shell calcite, research has been recently focused on the role of the “vital effects”. Our examination of the lamella structure of several recent planktonic foraminifera indicates that the secretion of sequential lamellae results in multiple lamillae on earlier chambers and a single lamella on the final chamber. We used a very simple procedure to separate the individual whole test of foraminifera into several chambers and measured the isotopic composition of each growth stage chamber. The results indicate that the stable isotopic composition (carbon and oxygen), particularly that of the last two chambers, of the foraminiferal test varies as a function of the individual growing process.

Geoarchaeology and geomorphology of Phoenicus ancient harbor, NW coast of Egypt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moustafa, Samah; Torab, Magdy

2016-04-01

Phoenicus Greek harbor located in SE coastline of Ras El Hekma area, west of Alexandria city for about 220 km. It is shaped as triangle with its headland extending into the Mediterranean Sea for about 15 km. It is occupied by sedimentary rocks belonging to the Tertiary and Quaternary Eras, the western coastline consists of Pleistocene, Separated polygons of limestone sheets and fossil lime stone, where there are coastal platforms, fluvial forms and solution holes. The location and description of Phoenicus ancient harbor were mentioned by some late writers (Fourtau,1893) & (Muller,1901), some geoarchaeological indicators were discovered by the authors such as fish tanks, well, remains of breakwater and wine press. The present work is mainly devoted to define the geomorphological and geoarchaelological indicators of Phoenicus Greek harbor site, based on detailed geomorphological and geoarchaelogical surveying, sampling, dating and mapping as well as satellite image interpretation and GIS techniques.

Measurements of Solar Vector Magnetic Fields

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hagyard, M. J. (Editor)

1985-01-01

Various aspects of the measurement of solar magnetic fields are presented. The four major subdivisions of the study are: (1) theoretical understanding of solar vector magnetic fields; (3) techniques for interpretation of observational data; and (4) techniques for data display.

A technique for extracting Radiolaria from radiolarian cherts.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pessagno, E. A., Jr.; Newport, R. L.

1972-01-01

Differential solution of Mesozoic radiolarian cherts with hydrofluoric acid has yielded well-preserved, matrix-free Radiolaria. This technique allows the full utilization of Radiolaria in interpreting the stratigraphy of ophiolite sequences and of other successions where cherts are prevalent.

Prediction of parturition in bitches utilizing continuous vaginal temperature measurement.

PubMed

Geiser, B; Burfeind, O; Heuwieser, W; Arlt, S

2014-02-01

The objective of this study was to determine sensitivity and specificity of a body temperature decline in bitches to predict parturition. Temperature loggers were placed into the vaginal cavity of 16 pregnant bitches on day 56-61 after estimated ovulation or first mating. This measurement technique has been validated previously and enabled continuous sampling of body temperature. The temperature loggers were expelled from the vagina before delivery of the first pup. The computed values for specificity (77-92%) were higher than sensitivity (53-69%), indicating a more precise prognosis of parturition not occurring. In conclusion, our findings may assist interpreting vaginal temperature measurements in order to predict parturition in bitches. © 2013 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

An intercomparison of longwave measurements by ERBE radiometers on the NOAA-9 and ERBS satellites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

House, Frederick B.

1989-01-01

Two instrument modules of each satellite on which the Earth Radiation Budget Experiment (ERBE) is orbiting observe components of the earth radiation budget with three different scales of earth view. An intercomparison of longwave measurements by these instruments provides relative information concerning radiometric performance at satellite altitude, techniques of estimating upwelling exitances, and an end-to-end evaluation of the data processing system. Results indicate that the ERBE radiometers are mildly sensitive to varying thermal loads from the spacecraft and/or the earth-space environment. Radiometric variations at the satellite and methods of data interpretation contribute about equally to the uncertainty of radiant exitances from the earth.

A general method for decomposing the causes of socioeconomic inequality in health.

PubMed

Heckley, Gawain; Gerdtham, Ulf-G; Kjellsson, Gustav

2016-07-01

We introduce a general decomposition method applicable to all forms of bivariate rank dependent indices of socioeconomic inequality in health, including the concentration index. The technique is based on recentered influence function regression and requires only the application of OLS to a transformed variable with similar interpretation. Our method requires few identifying assumptions to yield valid estimates in most common empirical applications, unlike current methods favoured in the literature. Using the Swedish Twin Registry and a within twin pair fixed effects identification strategy, our new method finds no evidence of a causal effect of education on income-related health inequality. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The identification of selected vegetation types in Arizona through the photointerpretation of intermediate scale aerial photography. M.S. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ross, G. F. (Principal Investigator)

1973-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. Nine photography interpretation tests were performed with a total of 19 different interpreters. Three tests were conducted with black and white intermediate scale photography and six tests with color infrared intermediate scale photography. The black and white test results show that the interpretation of vegetation mapped at the association level of classification is reliable for all the classes used at 61%. The color infrared tests indicate that the association level of mapping is unsatisfactory for vegetation interpretation of classes 1 and 6. Students' t-test indicated that intermediate scale black and white photography is significantly better than this particular color infrared photography for the interpretation of southeastern Arizona vegetation mapped at the association level.

Interpretational Confounding Is Due to Misspecification, Not to Type of Indicator: Comment on Howell, Breivik, and Wilcox (2007)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bollen, Kenneth A.

2007-01-01

R. D. Howell, E. Breivik, and J. B. Wilcox (2007) have argued that causal (formative) indicators are inherently subject to interpretational confounding. That is, they have argued that using causal (formative) indicators leads the empirical meaning of a latent variable to be other than that assigned to it by a researcher. Their critique of causal…

Clinical application of pulse transit time and correlation with intrapartum fetal heart rate monitoring: a preliminary study of 18 full-term infants.

PubMed

Kawagoe, Yasuyuki; Sameshima, Hiroshi; Ikenoue, Tsuyomu

2008-07-01

The authors show that pulse transit time and blood pressure are reciprocal in fetal goat models. They applied this technique in clinical settings to correlate changes in pulse transit time with fetal heart rate monitoring patterns and acid-base status. In 18 uncomplicated pregnancies, pulse transit time was obtained from electrocardiograms to pulse oximeter waveform and averaged during each baseline period, defined by the interpretation of fetal heart rate monitoring. According to a > 10% change from the control value, chronological changes were categorized into shortened, unchanged, and prolonged. Pulse transit time was available in 82% +/- 11% of the recordings. In 15 fetuses, 2 (13%) showed prolonged, 7 (47%) showed shortened, and 6 (40%) showed unchanged conditions. Comparisons of the shortened and unchanged categories revealed that severe variable deceleration was significantly increased, and half or more fetuses showed hypoxemia in the shortened category. Shortening of pulse transit time, theoretically indicating a hypertensive condition, was more frequently associated with severe variable decelerations, suggesting that the pulse transit time may supplement the interpretation of fetal heart rate monitoring.

A Bayesian approach to the characterization of electroencephalographic recordings in premature infants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mitchell, Timothy J.

Preterm infants are particularly susceptible to cerebral injury, and electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings provide an important diagnostic tool for determining cerebral health. However, interpreting these EEG recordings is challenging and requires the skills of a trained electroencephalographer. Because these EEG specialists are rare, an automated interpretation of newborn EEG recordings would increase access to an important diagnostic tool for physicians. To automate this procedure, we employ a novel Bayesian approach to compute the probability of EEG features (waveforms) including suppression, delta brushes, and delta waves. The power of this approach lies not only in its ability to closely mimic the techniques used by EEG specialists, but also its ability to be generalized to identify other waveforms that may be of interest for future work. The results of these calculations are used in a program designed to output simple statistics related to the presence or absence of such features. Direct comparison of the software with expert human readers has indicated satisfactory performance, and the algorithm has shown promise in its ability to distinguish between infants with normal neurodevelopmental outcome and those with poor neurodevelopmental outcome.

Application of IRS-1D data in water erosion features detection (case study: Nour roud catchment, Iran).

PubMed

Solaimani, K; Amri, M A Hadian

2008-08-01

The aim of this study was capability of Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) data of 1D to detecting erosion features which were created from run-off. In this study, ability of PAN digital data of IRS-1D satellite was evaluated for extraction of erosion features in Nour-roud catchment located in Mazandaran province, Iran, using GIS techniques. Research method has based on supervised digital classification, using MLC algorithm and also visual interpretation, using PMU analysis and then these were evaluated and compared. Results indicated that opposite of digital classification, with overall accuracy 40.02% and kappa coefficient 31.35%, due to low spectral resolution; visual interpretation and classification, due to high spatial resolution (5.8 m), prepared classifying erosion features from this data, so that these features corresponded with the lithology, slope and hydrograph lines using GIS, so closely that one can consider their boundaries overlapped. Also field control showed that this data is relatively fit for using this method in investigation of erosion features and specially, can be applied to identify large erosion features.

Neotectonic interpretations and PS-InSAR monitoring of crustal deformations in the Fujian area of China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Jianming; Xu, Shiyang; Fan, Hailong

2017-05-01

A neotectonic structural interpretation was conducted in the Fujian Province, west of the Taiwan Strait, by using computer image processing and 3D visualizations to enhance linear structural traces. The major faults in this area can be grouped into two conjugate shear fracture zones, with one trending to the northeast and the other trending to the northwest. PS-InSAR technology uses stable permanent target scatterer points to determine deformation rates and can effectively reduce the influence of spatiotemporal decorrelations and atmospheric anomalies that affect conventional D-InSAR techniques and prevent the formation of interference fringes. This study focuses on the fault zones located in the Quanzhou area of Fujian Province, where the 1604 M7.5-8.0 historic earthquake occurred. In total, 22 scenes of ERS SAR data from 1996 to 1999 were processed using PS-InSAR methods. The results show that the line of sight direction displacement rate of the main fault in the study area is 3-5 mm/yr, which indicates that the faults in this area are still active and subject to earthquake risk.

Evaluation of Skylab (EREP) data for forest and rangeland surveys

Treesearch

Robert C. Aldrich

1976-01-01

Data products from the Skylab Earth Resources Experiment Package were examined monocularly or stereoscopically using a variety of magnifying interpretation devices. Land use, forest types, physiographic sites, and plant communities, as well as forest stress, were interpreted and mapped at sites in Georgia, South Dakota, and Colorado. Microdensitometric techniques and...

Using Real World Experience to Teach Science and Environmental Writing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Friedman, Sharon M.

The use of interpretive reporting techniques and programs offering real world training to writers may provide solutions to the problems encountered in writing about science for the mass media. Both science and environmental writers have suggested that the problems they face would be decreased by the use of more interpretive and investigative…

Locus of Control and Student Perceptions of Three Counseling Techniques

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dougherty, A. Michael; And Others

1978-01-01

Use of advice-giving, Adlerian interpretation, and analytically-derived interpretation with regard to whether feelings of approach, attack, or withdrawal were elicited was investigated by having subjects respond to eight videotaped role-played counseling segments. Subjects were 242 fourth-graders and 191 tenth-graders, grouped by locus of control.…

Characterizing multivariate decoding models based on correlated EEG spectral features.

PubMed

McFarland, Dennis J

2013-07-01

Multivariate decoding methods are popular techniques for analysis of neurophysiological data. The present study explored potential interpretative problems with these techniques when predictors are correlated. Data from sensorimotor rhythm-based cursor control experiments was analyzed offline with linear univariate and multivariate models. Features were derived from autoregressive (AR) spectral analysis of varying model order which produced predictors that varied in their degree of correlation (i.e., multicollinearity). The use of multivariate regression models resulted in much better prediction of target position as compared to univariate regression models. However, with lower order AR features interpretation of the spectral patterns of the weights was difficult. This is likely to be due to the high degree of multicollinearity present with lower order AR features. Care should be exercised when interpreting the pattern of weights of multivariate models with correlated predictors. Comparison with univariate statistics is advisable. While multivariate decoding algorithms are very useful for prediction their utility for interpretation may be limited when predictors are correlated. Copyright © 2013 International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Post-acquisition data mining techniques for LC-MS/MS-acquired data in drug metabolite identification.

PubMed

Dhurjad, Pooja Sukhdev; Marothu, Vamsi Krishna; Rathod, Rajeshwari

2017-08-01

Metabolite identification is a crucial part of the drug discovery process. LC-MS/MS-based metabolite identification has gained widespread use, but the data acquired by the LC-MS/MS instrument is complex, and thus the interpretation of data becomes troublesome. Fortunately, advancements in data mining techniques have simplified the process of data interpretation with improved mass accuracy and provide a potentially selective, sensitive, accurate and comprehensive way for metabolite identification. In this review, we have discussed the targeted (extracted ion chromatogram, mass defect filter, product ion filter, neutral loss filter and isotope pattern filter) and untargeted (control sample comparison, background subtraction and metabolomic approaches) post-acquisition data mining techniques, which facilitate the drug metabolite identification. We have also discussed the importance of integrated data mining strategy.

Artificial intelligence and signal processing for infrastructure assessment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Assaleh, Khaled; Shanableh, Tamer; Yehia, Sherif

2015-04-01

The Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is being recognized as an effective nondestructive evaluation technique to improve the inspection process. However, data interpretation and complexity of the results impose some limitations on the practicality of using this technique. This is mainly due to the need of a trained experienced person to interpret images obtained by the GPR system. In this paper, an algorithm to classify and assess the condition of infrastructures utilizing image processing and pattern recognition techniques is discussed. Features extracted form a dataset of images of defected and healthy slabs are used to train a computer vision based system while another dataset is used to evaluate the proposed algorithm. Initial results show that the proposed algorithm is able to detect the existence of defects with about 77% success rate.

A Gram Stain Hands-On Workshop Enhances First Year Medical Students' Technique Competency in Comprehension and Memorization.

PubMed

Delfiner, Matthew S; Martinez, Luis R; Pavia, Charles S

2016-01-01

Laboratory diagnostic tests have an essential role in patient care, and the increasing number of medical and health professions schools focusing on teaching laboratory medicine to pre-clinical students reflects this importance. However, data validating the pedagogical methods that best influence students' comprehension and interpretation of diagnostic tests have not been well described. The Gram stain is a simple yet significant and frequently used diagnostic test in the clinical setting that helps classify bacteria into two major groups, Gram positive and negative, based on their cell wall structure. We used this technique to assess which educational strategies may improve students' learning and competency in medical diagnostic techniques. Hence, in this randomized controlled study, we compared the effectiveness of several educational strategies (e.g. workshop, discussion, or lecture) in first year medical students' competency in comprehension and interpretation of the Gram stain procedure. We demonstrated that a hands-on practical workshop significantly enhances students' competency in memorization and overall comprehension of the technique. Interestingly, most students irrespective of their cohort showed difficulty in answering Gram stain-related analytical questions, suggesting that more emphasis should be allocated by the instructors to clearly explain the interpretation of the diagnostic test results to students in medical and health professional schools. This proof of principle study highlights the need of practical experiences on laboratory medical techniques during pre-clinical training to facilitate future medical doctors' and healthcare professionals' basic understanding and competency in diagnostic testing for better patient care.

Indication of Confirmation of Transition and Formation Boundary from Ordered to Disordered Flux Vortex Chain State in High-Tc Superconductors Y1Ba2Cu3O7- δ and Bi2Sr2Ca2Cu3O10 and New Low-Field Data Delineating Magnetic Transition in Gd1Ba2(Fe0.02Cu0.98)3O7- δ

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vezzoli, G. Christopher; Chen, Michaeline F.; Burke, Terence; Rosen, Carol

1996-08-01

Data are presented herein that support a phase boundary or quasi-phase-boundary delineating in Y1Ba2Cu3O7-δ and in Bi2Sr2Ca2Cu3O10 ceramic materials a transition from a vortex solid lattice to a line-flux disordered state that has been referred to as representing flux lattice melting to a flux liquid, but herein is interpreted not in terms of a liquid but in the form of a less-mobile `polymer'-like or entangled chain species. These data are derived from electrical resistance (r) versus applied magnetic field (H) measurements at various isotherms (T) corresponding to the zero resistance state of yttrium--barium--cuprate, and the mixed state foot regime of bismuth--strontium--calcium--cuprate. We interpret significant slope changes in r versus B at constant T in these materials to be indicative of the H-T conditions for a second-order or weakly first-order phase transition delineating the disordering of a flux lattice vortex solid. We believe that this technique is in ways more direct and at least as accurate as the conventional mechanical oscillator and vibrating magnetometer method to study the flux state. Additional very-low-field studies in Gd1Ba2(Fe0.02Cu0.98)3O7-δ, from 1 to 1000 mT, yield indication for what appears to be a magnetic transition at ca. 77 K at 575 mT, and possibly a second transition at 912 mT (also at ca. 77 K). These data points correspond well with the extrapolated low-field experimental magnetic phase transition boundary curve described at higher field herein (and by others using the mechanical technique), and also correspond well to theoretically predicted work regarding transition involving the vortex state.

Magnetic fabric constraints of the emplacement of igneous intrusions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maes, Stephanie M.

Fabric analysis is critical to evaluating the history, kinematics, and dynamics of geological deformation. This is particularly true of igneous intrusions, where the development of fabric is used to constrain magmatic flow and emplacement mechanisms. Fabric analysis was applied to three mafic intrusions, with different tectonic and petrogenetic histories, to study emplacement and magma flow: the Insizwa sill (Mesozoic Karoo Large Igneous Province, South Africa), Sonju Lake intrusion (Proterozoic Midcontinent Rift, Minnesota, USA), and Palisades sill (Mesozoic rift basin, New Jersey, USA). Multiple fabric analysis techniques were used to define the fabric in each intrusive body. Using digital image analysis techniques on multiple thin sections, the three-dimensional shape-preferred orientation (SPO) of populations of mineral phases were calculated. Low-field anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) measurements were used as a proxy for the mineral fabric of the ferromagnetic phases (e.g., magnetite). In addition, a new technique---high-field AMS---was used to isolate the paramagnetic component of the fabric (e.g., silicate fabric). Each fabric analysis technique was then compared to observable field fabrics as a framework for interpretation. In the Insizwa sill, magnetic properties were used to corroborate vertical petrologic zonation and distinguish sub-units within lithologically defined units. Abrupt variation in magnetic properties provides evidence supporting the formation of the Insizwa sill by separate magma intrusions. Low-field AMS fabrics in the Sonju Lake intrusion exhibit consistent SW-plunging lineations and SW-dipping foliations. These fabric orientations provide evidence that the cumulate layers in the intrusion were deposited in a dynamic environment, and indicate magma flowed from southwest to northeast, parallel to the pre-existing rift structures. In the Palisades sill, the magnetite SPO and low-field AMS lineation have developed orthogonal to the plagioclase SPO and high-field AMS lineation. Magma flow in the Palisades magmatic system is interpreted to have originated from a point source feeder. Low-field AMS records the flow direction, whereas high-field AMS records extension within the igneous sheet. The multiple fabric analysis techniques presented in this dissertation have advanced our understanding of the development of fabric and its relationship to internal structure, emplacement, and magma dynamics in mafic igneous systems.

Interpretation of ERTS-MSS images of a Savanna area in eastern Colombia

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elberson, G. W. W.

1973-01-01

The application of ERTS-1 imagery for extrapolating existing soil maps into unmapped areas of the Llanos Orientales of Colombia, South America is discussed. Interpretations of ERTS-1 data were made according to conventional photointerpretation techniques. Most units delineated in the existing reconnaissance soil map at a scale of 1:250,000 could be recognized and delineated in the ERTS image. The methods of interpretation are described and the results obtained for specific areas are analyzed.

Visualization rhetoric: framing effects in narrative visualization.

PubMed

Hullman, Jessica; Diakopoulos, Nicholas

2011-12-01

Narrative visualizations combine conventions of communicative and exploratory information visualization to convey an intended story. We demonstrate visualization rhetoric as an analytical framework for understanding how design techniques that prioritize particular interpretations in visualizations that "tell a story" can significantly affect end-user interpretation. We draw a parallel between narrative visualization interpretation and evidence from framing studies in political messaging, decision-making, and literary studies. Devices for understanding the rhetorical nature of narrative information visualizations are presented, informed by the rigorous application of concepts from critical theory, semiotics, journalism, and political theory. We draw attention to how design tactics represent additions or omissions of information at various levels-the data, visual representation, textual annotations, and interactivity-and how visualizations denote and connote phenomena with reference to unstated viewing conventions and codes. Classes of rhetorical techniques identified via a systematic analysis of recent narrative visualizations are presented, and characterized according to their rhetorical contribution to the visualization. We describe how designers and researchers can benefit from the potentially positive aspects of visualization rhetoric in designing engaging, layered narrative visualizations and how our framework can shed light on how a visualization design prioritizes specific interpretations. We identify areas where future inquiry into visualization rhetoric can improve understanding of visualization interpretation. © 2011 IEEE

Accoustic waveform logging--Advances in theory and application

USGS Publications Warehouse

Paillet, F.L.; Cheng, C.H.; Pennington , W.D.

1992-01-01

Full-waveform acoustic logging has made significant advances in both theory and application in recent years, and these advances have greatly increased the capability of log analysts to measure the physical properties of formations. Advances in theory provide the analytical tools required to understand the properties of measured seismic waves, and to relate those properties to such quantities as shear and compressional velocity and attenuation, and primary and fracture porosity and permeability of potential reservoir rocks. The theory demonstrates that all parts of recorded waveforms are related to various modes of propagation, even in the case of dipole and quadrupole source logging. However, the theory also indicates that these mode properties can be used to design velocity and attenuation picking schemes, and shows how source frequency spectra can be selected to optimize results in specific applications. Synthetic microseismogram computations are an effective tool in waveform interpretation theory; they demonstrate how shear arrival picks and mode attenuation can be used to compute shear velocity and intrinsic attenuation, and formation permeability for monopole, dipole and quadrupole sources. Array processing of multi-receiver data offers the opportunity to apply even more sophisticated analysis techniques. Synthetic microseismogram data is used to illustrate the application of the maximum-likelihood method, semblance cross-correlation, and Prony's method analysis techniques to determine seismic velocities and attenuations. The interpretation of acoustic waveform logs is illustrated by reviews of various practical applications, including synthetic seismogram generation, lithology determination, estimation of geomechanical properties in situ, permeability estimation, and design of hydraulic fracture operations.

Interpretation of aeromagnetic data over Abeokuta and its environs, Southwest Nigeria, using spectral analysis (Fourier transform technique)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Olurin, Oluwaseun T.; Ganiyu, Saheed A.; Hammed, Olaide S.; Aluko, Taiwo J.

2016-10-01

This study presents the results of spectral analysis of magnetic data over Abeokuta area, Southwestern Nigeria, using fast Fourier transform (FFT) in Microsoft Excel. The study deals with the quantitative interpretation of airborne magnetic data (Sheet No. 260), which was conducted by the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency in 2009. In order to minimise aliasing error, the aeromagnetic data was gridded at spacing of 1 km. Spectral analysis technique was used to estimate the magnetic basement depth distributed at two levels. The result of the interpretation shows that the magnetic sources are mainly distributed at two levels. The shallow sources (minimum depth) range in depth from 0.103 to 0.278 km below ground level and are inferred to be due to intrusions within the region. The deeper sources (maximum depth) range in depth from 2.739 to 3.325 km below ground and are attributed to the underlying basement.

Quantitative ultrasonic evaluation of concrete structures using one-sided access

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khazanovich, Lev; Hoegh, Kyle

2016-02-01

Nondestructive diagnostics of concrete structures is an important and challenging problem. A recent introduction of array ultrasonic dry point contact transducer systems offers opportunities for quantitative assessment of the subsurface condition of concrete structures, including detection of defects and inclusions. The methods described in this paper are developed for signal interpretation of shear wave impulse response time histories from multiple fixed distance transducer pairs in a self-contained ultrasonic linear array. This included generalizing Kirchoff migration-based synthetic aperture focusing technique (SAFT) reconstruction methods to handle the spatially diverse transducer pair locations, creating expanded virtual arrays with associated reconstruction methods, and creating automated reconstruction interpretation methods for reinforcement detection and stochastic flaw detection. Interpretation of the reconstruction techniques developed in this study were validated using the results of laboratory and field forensic studies. Applicability of the developed methods for solving practical engineering problems was demonstrated.

Cerebral Microbleeds: A Field Guide to their Detection and Interpretation

PubMed Central

Greenberg, Steven M.; Vernooij, Meike W.; Cordonnier, Charlotte; Viswanathan, Anand; Salman, Rustam Al-Shahi; Warach, Steven; Launer, Lenore J.; Van Buchem, Mark A.; Breteler, Monique M.B.

2012-01-01

Summary Cerebral microbleeds (CMB) are increasingly recognized neuroimaging findings, occurring with cerebrovascular disease, dementia, and normal aging. Recent years have seen substantial progress, particularly in developing newer MRI methodologies for CMB detection and applying them to population-based elderly samples. This review focuses on these recent developments and their impact on two major questions: how CMB are detected, and how they should be interpreted. There is now ample evidence that prevalence and number of detected CMB varies with MRI characteristics such as pulse sequence, sequence parameters, spatial resolution, magnetic field strength, and post-processing, underlining the importance of MRI technique in interpreting studies. Recent investigations using sensitive techniques find the prevalence of CMB detected in community-dwelling elderly to be surprisingly high. We propose procedural guidelines for identifying CMB and suggest possible future approaches for elucidating the role of these common lesions as markers for, and potential contributors to, small vessel brain disease. PMID:19161908

Historical trends in organochlorine compounds in river basins identified using sediment cores from reservoirs

USGS Publications Warehouse

Van Metre, P.C.; Callender, E.; Fuller, C.C.

1997-01-01

This study used chemical analyses of dated sediment cores from reservoirs to define historical trends in water quality in the influent river basins. This work applies techniques from paleolimnology to reservoirs, and in the process, highlights differences between sediment-core interpretations for reservoirs and natural lakes. Sediment cores were collected from six reservoirs in the central and southeastern United States, sectioned, and analyzed for 137Cs and organochlorine compounds. 137Cs analyses were used to demonstrate limited post-depositional mixing, to indicate sediment deposition dates, and to estimate sediment focusing factors. Relative lack of mixing, high sedimentation rates, and high focusing factors distinguish reservoir sediment cores from cores collected in natural lakes. Temporal trends in concentrations of PCBs, total DDT (DDT + DDD + DDE), and chlordane reflect historical use and regulation of these compounds and differences in land use between reservoir drainages. PCB and total DDT core burdens, normalized for sediment focusing, greatly exceed reported cumulative regional atmospheric fallout of PCBs and total DDT estimated using cores from peat hogs and natural lakes, indicating the dominance of fluvial inputs of both groups of compounds to the reservoirs.This study used chemical analyses of dated sediment cores from reservoirs to define historical trends in water quality in the influent river basins. This work applies techniques from paleolimnology to reservoirs, and in the process, highlights differences between sediment-core interpretations for reservoirs and natural lakes. Sediment cores were collected from six reservoirs in the central and southeastern United States, sectioned, and analyzed for 137Cs and organochlorine compounds. 137Cs analyses were used to demonstrate limited post-depositional mixing, to indicate sediment deposition dates, and to estimate sediment focusing factors. Relative lack of mixing, high sedimentation rates, and high focusing factors distinguish reservoir sediment cores from cores collected in natural lakes. Temporal trends in concentrations of PCBs, total DOT (DDT+DDD+DDE), and chlordane reflect historical use and regulation of these compounds and differences in land use between reservoir drainages. PCB and total DDT core burdens, normalized for sediment focusing, greatly exceed reported cumulative regional atmospheric fallout of PCBs and total DDT estimated using cores from peat bogs and natural lakes, indicating the dominance of fluvial inputs of both groups of compounds to the reservoirs.

Calibration of Seismic Attributes for Reservoir Characterization

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

Pennington, Wayne D.; Acevedo, Horacio; Green, Aaron

2002-01-29

This project has completed the initially scheduled third year of the contract, and is beginning a fourth year, designed to expand upon the tech transfer aspects of the project. From the Stratton data set, demonstrated that an apparent correlation between attributes derived along `phantom' horizons are artifacts of isopach changes; only if the interpreter understands that the interpretation is based on this correlation with bed thickening or thinning, can reliable interpretations of channel horizons and facies be made. From the Boonsville data set , developed techniques to use conventional seismic attributes, including seismic facies generated under various neural network procedures,more » to subdivide regional facies determined from logs into productive and non-productive subfacies, and developed a method involving cross-correlation of seismic waveforms to provide a reliable map of the various facies present in the area. The Teal South data set provided a surprising set of data, leading us to develop a pressure-dependent velocity relationship and to conclude that nearby reservoirs are undergoing a pressure drop in response to the production of the main reservoir, implying that oil is being lost through their spill points, never to be produced. The Wamsutter data set led to the use of unconventional attributes including lateral incoherence and horizon-dependent impedance variations to indicate regions of former sand bars and current high pressure, respectively, and to evaluation of various upscaling routines.« less

An evaluation of consensus techniques for diagnostic interpretation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sauter, Jake N.; LaBarre, Victoria M.; Furst, Jacob D.; Raicu, Daniela S.

2018-02-01

Learning diagnostic labels from image content has been the standard in computer-aided diagnosis. Most computer-aided diagnosis systems use low-level image features extracted directly from image content to train and test machine learning classifiers for diagnostic label prediction. When the ground truth for the diagnostic labels is not available, reference truth is generated from the experts diagnostic interpretations of the image/region of interest. More specifically, when the label is uncertain, e.g. when multiple experts label an image and their interpretations are different, techniques to handle the label variability are necessary. In this paper, we compare three consensus techniques that are typically used to encode the variability in the experts labeling of the medical data: mean, median and mode, and their effects on simple classifiers that can handle deterministic labels (decision trees) and probabilistic vectors of labels (belief decision trees). Given that the NIH/NCI Lung Image Database Consortium (LIDC) data provides interpretations for lung nodules by up to four radiologists, we leverage the LIDC data to evaluate and compare these consensus approaches when creating computer-aided diagnosis systems for lung nodules. First, low-level image features of nodules are extracted and paired with their radiologists semantic ratings (1= most likely benign, , 5 = most likely malignant); second, machine learning multi-class classifiers that handle deterministic labels (decision trees) and probabilistic vectors of labels (belief decision trees) are built to predict the lung nodules semantic ratings. We show that the mean-based consensus generates the most robust classi- fier overall when compared to the median- and mode-based consensus. Lastly, the results of this study show that, when building CAD systems with uncertain diagnostic interpretation, it is important to evaluate different strategies for encoding and predicting the diagnostic label.

Interpretation of geographic patterns in simulated orbital television imagery of earth resources

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Latham, J. P.; Cross, C. I.; Kuyper, W. H.; Witmer, R. E.

1972-01-01

In order to better determine the effects of the television imagery characteristics upon the interpretation of geographic patterns obtainable from orbital television sensors, and in order to better evaluate the influences of alternative sensor system parameters such as changes in orbital altitudes or scan line rates, a team of three professional interpreters independently mapped thematically the selected geographic phenomena that they could detect in orbital television imagery produced on a fourteen inch monitor and recorded photographically for analysis. Three thematic maps were compiled by each interpreter. The maps were: (1) transportation patterns; (2) other land use; and (3) physical regions. The results from the three interpreters are compared, agreements noted, and differences analyzed for cause such as disagreement on identification of phenomenon, visual acuity, differences in interpretation techniques, and differing professional backgrounds.

Structural interpretation of seismic data and inherent uncertainties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bond, Clare

2013-04-01

Geoscience is perhaps unique in its reliance on incomplete datasets and building knowledge from their interpretation. This interpretation basis for the science is fundamental at all levels; from creation of a geological map to interpretation of remotely sensed data. To teach and understand better the uncertainties in dealing with incomplete data we need to understand the strategies individual practitioners deploy that make them effective interpreters. The nature of interpretation is such that the interpreter needs to use their cognitive ability in the analysis of the data to propose a sensible solution in their final output that is both consistent not only with the original data but also with other knowledge and understanding. In a series of experiments Bond et al. (2007, 2008, 2011, 2012) investigated the strategies and pitfalls of expert and non-expert interpretation of seismic images. These studies focused on large numbers of participants to provide a statistically sound basis for analysis of the results. The outcome of these experiments showed that a wide variety of conceptual models were applied to single seismic datasets. Highlighting not only spatial variations in fault placements, but whether interpreters thought they existed at all, or had the same sense of movement. Further, statistical analysis suggests that the strategies an interpreter employs are more important than expert knowledge per se in developing successful interpretations. Experts are successful because of their application of these techniques. In a new set of experiments a small number of experts are focused on to determine how they use their cognitive and reasoning skills, in the interpretation of 2D seismic profiles. Live video and practitioner commentary were used to track the evolving interpretation and to gain insight on their decision processes. The outputs of the study allow us to create an educational resource of expert interpretation through online video footage and commentary with associated further interpretation and analysis of the techniques and strategies employed. This resource will be of use to undergraduate, post-graduate, industry and academic professionals seeking to improve their seismic interpretation skills, develop reasoning strategies for dealing with incomplete datasets, and for assessing the uncertainty in these interpretations. Bond, C.E. et al. (2012). 'What makes an expert effective at interpreting seismic images?' Geology, 40, 75-78. Bond, C. E. et al. (2011). 'When there isn't a right answer: interpretation and reasoning, key skills for 21st century geoscience'. International Journal of Science Education, 33, 629-652. Bond, C. E. et al. (2008). 'Structural models: Optimizing risk analysis by understanding conceptual uncertainty'. First Break, 26, 65-71. Bond, C. E. et al., (2007). 'What do you think this is?: "Conceptual uncertainty" In geoscience interpretation'. GSA Today, 17, 4-10.

Remote sensing techniques in monitoring areas affected by forest fire

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karagianni, Aikaterini Ch.; Lazaridou, Maria A.

2017-09-01

Forest fire is a part of nature playing a key role in shaping ecosystems. However, fire's environmental impacts can be significant, affecting wildlife habitat and timber, human settlements, man-made technical constructions and various networks (road, power networks) and polluting the air with emissions harmful to human health. Furthermore, fire's effect on the landscape may be long-lasting. Monitoring the development of a fire occurs as an important aspect at the management of natural hazards in general. Among the used methods for monitoring, satellite data and remote sensing techniques can be proven of particular importance. Satellite remote sensing offers a useful tool for forest fire detection, monitoring, management and damage assessment. Especially for fire scars detection and monitoring, satellite data derived from Landsat 8 can be a useful research tool. This paper includes critical considerations of the above and concerns in particular an example of the Greek area (Thasos Island). This specific area was hit by fires several times in the past and recently as well (September 2016). Landsat 8 satellite data are being used (pre and post fire imagery) and digital image processing techniques are applied (enhancement techniques, calculation of various indices) for fire scars detection. Visual interpretation of the example area affected by the fires is also being done, contributing to the overall study.

Modelling formulations using gene expression programming--a comparative analysis with artificial neural networks.

PubMed

Colbourn, E A; Roskilly, S J; Rowe, R C; York, P

2011-10-09

This study has investigated the utility and potential advantages of gene expression programming (GEP)--a new development in evolutionary computing for modelling data and automatically generating equations that describe the cause-and-effect relationships in a system--to four types of pharmaceutical formulation and compared the models with those generated by neural networks, a technique now widely used in the formulation development. Both methods were capable of discovering subtle and non-linear relationships within the data, with no requirement from the user to specify the functional forms that should be used. Although the neural networks rapidly developed models with higher values for the ANOVA R(2) these were black box and provided little insight into the key relationships. However, GEP, although significantly slower at developing models, generated relatively simple equations describing the relationships that could be interpreted directly. The results indicate that GEP can be considered an effective and efficient modelling technique for formulation data. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of fuzzy air quality index using soft computing approach.

PubMed

Mandal, T; Gorai, A K; Pathak, G

2012-10-01

Proper assessment of air quality status in an atmosphere based on limited observations is an essential task for meeting the goals of environmental management. A number of classification methods are available for estimating the changing status of air quality. However, a discrepancy frequently arises from the quality criteria of air employed and vagueness or fuzziness embedded in the decision making output values. Owing to inherent imprecision, difficulties always exist in some conventional methodologies like air quality index when describing integrated air quality conditions with respect to various pollutants parameters and time of exposure. In recent years, the fuzzy logic-based methods have demonstrated to be appropriated to address uncertainty and subjectivity in environmental issues. In the present study, a methodology based on fuzzy inference systems (FIS) to assess air quality is proposed. This paper presents a comparative study to assess status of air quality using fuzzy logic technique and that of conventional technique. The findings clearly indicate that the FIS may successfully harmonize inherent discrepancies and interpret complex conditions.

Instrumentation techniques for monitoring shock and detonation waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dick, R. D.; Parrish, R. L.

1985-09-01

CORRTEX (Continuous Reflectometry for Radius Versus Time Experiments), SLIFER (Shorted Location Indication by Frequency of Electrical Resonance), and pin probes were used to monitor several conditions of blasting such as the detonation velocity of the explosive, the functioning of the stemming column confining the explosive, and rock mass motion. CORRTEX is a passive device that employs time-domain reflectometry to interrogate the two-way transit time of a coaxial cable. SLIFER is an active device that monitors the changing frequency resulting from a change in length of a coaxial cable forming an element of an oscillator circuit. Pin probes in this application consist of RG-174 coaxial cables, each with an open circuit, placed at several known locations within the material. Each cable is connected to a pulse-forming network and a voltage source. When the cables are shorted by the advancing wave, time-distance data are produced from which a velocity can be computed. Each technique, installation of the gauge, examples of the signals, and interpretation of the records are described.

Prediction of Partition Coefficients of Organic Compounds between SPME/PDMS and Aqueous Solution

PubMed Central

Chao, Keh-Ping; Lu, Yu-Ting; Yang, Hsiu-Wen

2014-01-01

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is commonly used as the coated polymer in the solid phase microextraction (SPME) technique. In this study, the partition coefficients of organic compounds between SPME/PDMS and the aqueous solution were compiled from the literature sources. The correlation analysis for partition coefficients was conducted to interpret the effect of their physicochemical properties and descriptors on the partitioning process. The PDMS-water partition coefficients were significantly correlated to the polarizability of organic compounds (r = 0.977, p < 0.05). An empirical model, consisting of the polarizability, the molecular connectivity index, and an indicator variable, was developed to appropriately predict the partition coefficients of 61 organic compounds for the training set. The predictive ability of the empirical model was demonstrated by using it on a test set of 26 chemicals not included in the training set. The empirical model, applying the straightforward calculated molecular descriptors, for estimating the PDMS-water partition coefficient will contribute to the practical applications of the SPME technique. PMID:24534804

Analysis and automatic identification of sleep stages using higher order spectra.

PubMed

Acharya, U Rajendra; Chua, Eric Chern-Pin; Chua, Kuang Chua; Min, Lim Choo; Tamura, Toshiyo

2010-12-01

Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals are widely used to study the activity of the brain, such as to determine sleep stages. These EEG signals are nonlinear and non-stationary in nature. It is difficult to perform sleep staging by visual interpretation and linear techniques. Thus, we use a nonlinear technique, higher order spectra (HOS), to extract hidden information in the sleep EEG signal. In this study, unique bispectrum and bicoherence plots for various sleep stages were proposed. These can be used as visual aid for various diagnostics application. A number of HOS based features were extracted from these plots during the various sleep stages (Wakefulness, Rapid Eye Movement (REM), Stage 1-4 Non-REM) and they were found to be statistically significant with p-value lower than 0.001 using ANOVA test. These features were fed to a Gaussian mixture model (GMM) classifier for automatic identification. Our results indicate that the proposed system is able to identify sleep stages with an accuracy of 88.7%.

Comments on "A Closed-Form Solution to Tensor Voting: Theory and Applications".

PubMed

Maggiori, Emmanuel; Lotito, Pablo; Manterola, Hugo Luis; del Fresno, Mariana

2014-12-01

We comment on a paper that describes a closed-form formulation to Tensor Voting, a technique to perceptually group clouds of points, usually applied to infer features in images. The authors proved an analytic solution to the technique, a highly relevant contribution considering that the original formulation required numerical integration, a time-consuming task. Their work constitutes the first closed-form expression for the Tensor Voting framework. In this work we first observe that the proposed formulation leads to unexpected results which do not satisfy the constraints for a Tensor Voting output, hence they cannot be interpreted. Given that the closed-form expression is said to be an analytic equivalent solution, unexpected outputs should not be encountered unless there are flaws in the proof. We analyzed the underlying math to find which were the causes of these unexpected results. In this commentary we show that their proposal does not in fact provide a proper analytic solution to Tensor Voting and we indicate the flaws in the proof.

Measurements of strain at plate boundaries using space based geodetic techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robaudo, Stefano; Harrison, Christopher G. A.

1993-01-01

We have used the space based geodetic techniques of Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) and VLBI to study strain along subduction and transform plate boundaries and have interpreted the results using a simple elastic dislocation model. Six stations located behind island arcs were analyzed as representative of subduction zones while 13 sites located on either side of the San Andreas fault were used for the transcurrent zones. The length deformation scale was then calculated for both tectonic margins by fitting the relative strain to an exponentially decreasing function of distance from the plate boundary. Results show that space-based data for the transcurrent boundary along the San Andreas fault help to define better the deformation length scale in the area while fitting nicely the elastic half-space earth model. For subduction type bonndaries the analysis indicates that there is no single scale length which uniquely describes the deformation. This is mainly due to the difference in subduction characteristics for the different areas.

Trends in record-breaking temperatures for the conterminous United States

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rowe, Clinton M.; Derry, Logan E.

2012-08-01

In an unchanging climate, record-breaking temperatures are expected to decrease in frequency over time, as established records become increasingly more difficult to surpass. This inherent trend in the number of record-breaking events confounds the interpretation of actual trends in the presence of any underlying climate change. Here, a simple technique to remove the inherent trend is introduced so that any remaining trend can be examined separately for evidence of a climate change. As this technique does not use the standard definition of a broken record, our records* are differentiated by an asterisk. Results for the period 1961-2010 indicate that the number of record* low daily minimum temperatures has been significantly and steadily decreasing nearly everywhere across the United States while the number of record* high daily minimum temperatures has been predominantly increasing. Trends in record* low and record* high daily maximum temperatures are generally weaker and more spatially mixed in sign. These results are consistent with other studies examining changes expected in a warming climate.

Preliminary geophysical interpretations of regional subsurface geology near the Questa Mine Tailing Facility and Guadalupe Mountain, Taos County, New Mexico

USGS Publications Warehouse

Grauch, V.J.S.; Drenth, Benjamin J.; Thompson, Ren A.; Bauer, Paul W.

2015-08-01

This report presents geophysical interpretations of regional subsurface geology in the vicinity of the Tailing Facility of the Questa Mine near Guadalupe Mountain, Taos County, New Mexico, in cooperation with the New Mexico Environment Department. The interpretations were developed from aeromagnetic data, regional gravity data, data from four ground magnetic traverses, geologic mapping, a digital elevation model, and information from a few shallow wells. The resolution of the geophysical data is only appropriate for a broad assessment of the regional setting. Aeromagnetic data provided the most comprehensive information for interpretation. Qualitative and semiquantitative interpretations indicate the nature and extent of volcanic rocks, their relative depths, and inferred contacts between them, as well as conjectured locations of faults. In particular, the aeromagnetic data indicate places where volcanic rocks extend at shallow depths under sedimentary cover. Trachydacites of Guadalupe Mountain are magnetic, but their associated aeromagnetic anomalies are opposite in sign over the northern versus the southern parts of the mountain. The difference indicates that lavas erupted during different magnetic-polarity events in the north (reverse polarity) versus the south (normal polarity) and therefore have different ages. We postulate a buried volcano with reverse-polarity magnetization lies under the northeast side of Guadalupe Mountain, which likely predated the exposed trachydacites. Faults interpreted for the study area generally align with known fault zones. We interpret a northern extension to one of these faults that crosses northwesterly underneath the Tailing Facility. Gravity data indicate that Guadalupe Mountain straddles the western margin of a subbasin of the Rio Grande rift and that significant (>400 meters) thicknesses of both volcanic and sedimentary rocks underlie the mountain.

Development of a Computer System To Educate Students To Evaluate and Interpret Published Drug Studies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abate, Marie A.

The education of students in the techniques of critical appraisal of drug studies has been identified as a deficiency in many health sciences curricula. Errors in research design and inconsistencies in the reporting of study results persist in professional pharmacy and medical journals. Thus, thorough and accurate review and interpretation of…

The Effectiveness of Predict-Observe-Explain Tasks in Diagnosing Students' Understanding of Science and in Identifying Their Levels of Achievement.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liew, Chong-Wah; Treagust, David F.

This study involves action research to explore the effectiveness of the Predict-Observe-Explain (POE) technique in diagnosing students' understanding of science and identifying their levels of achievement. A multidimensional interpretive framework is used to interpret students' understanding of science. The research methodology incorporated…

Teacher Effectiveness Examined as a System: Interpretive Structural Modeling and Facilitation Sessions with U.S. and Japanese Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Georgakopoulos, Alexia

2009-01-01

This study challenges narrow definitions of teacher effectiveness and uses a systems approach to investigate teacher effectiveness as a multi-dimensional, holistic phenomenon. The methods of Nominal Group Technique and Interpretive Structural Modeling were used to assist U.S. and Japanese students separately construct influence structures during…

Processing and evaluation of riverine waveforms acquired by an experimental bathymetric LiDAR

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kinzel, P. J.; Legleiter, C. J.; Nelson, J. M.

2010-12-01

Accurate mapping of fluvial environments with airborne bathymetric LiDAR is challenged not only by environmental characteristics but also the development and application of software routines to post-process the recorded laser waveforms. During a bathymetric LiDAR survey, the transmission of the green-wavelength laser pulses through the water column is influenced by a number of factors including turbidity, the presence of organic material, and the reflectivity of the streambed. For backscattered laser pulses returned from the river bottom and digitized by the LiDAR detector, post-processing software is needed to interpret and identify distinct inflections in the reflected waveform. Relevant features of this energy signal include the air-water interface, volume reflection from the water column itself, and, ideally, a strong return from the bottom. We discuss our efforts to acquire, analyze, and interpret riverine surveys using the USGS Experimental Advanced Airborne Research LiDAR (EAARL) in a variety of fluvial environments. Initial processing of data collected in the Trinity River, California, using the EAARL Airborne Lidar Processing Software (ALPS) highlighted the difficulty of retrieving a distinct bottom signal in deep pools. Examination of laser waveforms from these pools indicated that weak bottom reflections were often neglected by a trailing edge algorithm used by ALPS to process shallow riverine waveforms. For the Trinity waveforms, this algorithm had a tendency to identify earlier inflections as the bottom, resulting in a shallow bias. Similarly, an EAARL survey along the upper Colorado River, Colorado, also revealed the inadequacy of the trailing edge algorithm for detecting weak bottom reflections. We developed an alternative waveform processing routine by exporting digitized laser waveforms from ALPS, computing the local extrema, and fitting Gaussian curves to the convolved backscatter. Our field data indicate that these techniques improved the definition of pool areas dominated by weak bottom reflections. These processing techniques are also being tested for EAARL surveys collected along the Platte and Klamath Rivers where environmental conditions have resulted in suppressed or convolved bottom reflections.

Passive Super-Low Frequency electromagnetic prospecting technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Nan; Zhao, Shanshan; Hui, Jian; Qin, Qiming

2017-03-01

The Super-Low Frequency (SLF) electromagnetic prospecting technique, adopted as a non-imaging remote sensing tool for depth sounding, is systematically proposed for subsurface geological survey. In this paper, we propose and theoretically illustrate natural source magnetic amplitudes as SLF responses for the first step. In order to directly calculate multi-dimensional theoretical SLF responses, modeling algorithms were developed and evaluated using the finite difference method. The theoretical results of three-dimensional (3-D) models show that the average normalized SLF magnetic amplitude responses were numerically stable and appropriate for practical interpretation. To explore the depth resolution, three-layer models were configured. The modeling results prove that the SLF technique is more sensitive to conductive objective layers than high resistive ones, with the SLF responses of conductive objective layers obviously showing uprising amplitudes in the low frequency range. Afterwards, we proposed an improved Frequency-Depth transformation based on Bostick inversion to realize the depth sounding by empirically adjusting two parameters. The SLF technique has already been successfully applied in geothermal exploration and coalbed methane (CBM) reservoir interpretation, which demonstrates that the proposed methodology is effective in revealing low resistive distributions. Furthermore, it siginificantly contributes to reservoir identification with electromagnetic radiation anomaly extraction. Meanwhile, the SLF interpretation results are in accordance with dynamic production status of CBM reservoirs, which means it could provide an economical, convenient and promising method for exploring and monitoring subsurface geo-objects.

Assesment on the performance of electrode arrays using image processing technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Usman, N.; Khiruddin, A.; Nawawi, Mohd

2017-08-01

Interpreting inverted resistivity section is time consuming, tedious and requires other sources of information to be relevant geologically. Image processing technique was used in order to perform post inversion processing which make geophysical data interpretation easier. The inverted data sets were imported into the PCI Geomatica 9.0.1 for further processing. The data sets were clipped and merged together in order to match the coordinates of the three layers and permit pixel to pixel analysis. Dipole-dipole array is more sensitive to resistivity variation with depth in comparison with Werner-Schlumberger and pole-dipole. Image processing serves as good post-inversion tool in geophysical data processing.

A generalization of the theory of fringe patterns containing displacement information

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sciammarella, C. A.; Bhat, G.

The theory that provides the interpretation of interferometric fringes as frequency modulated signals, is used to show that the electrooptical system used to analyze fringe patterns can be considered as a simultaneous Fourier spectrum analyzer. This interpretation generalizes the quasi-heterodyning techniques. It is pointed out that the same equations that yield the discrete Fourier transform as summations, yield correct values for a reduced number of steps. Examples of application of the proposed technique to electronic holography are given. It is found that for a uniform field the standard deviation of the individual readings is 1/20 of the fringe spacing.

Development of data processing interpretation and analysis system for the remote sensing of trace atmospheric gas species

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Casas, J. C.; Koziana, J. V.; Saylor, M. S.; Kindle, E. C.

1982-01-01

Problems associated with the development of the measurement of air pollution from satellites (MAPS) experiment program are addressed. The primary thrust of this research was the utilization of the MAPS experiment data in three application areas: low altitude aircraft flights (one to six km); mid altitude aircraft flights (eight to 12 km); and orbiting space platforms. Extensive research work in four major areas of data management was the framework for implementation of the MAPS experiment technique. These areas are: (1) data acquisition; (2) data processing, analysis and interpretation algorithms; (3) data display techniques; and (4) information production.

The 40Ar/39Ar dating technique applied to planetary sciences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jourdan, F.

2012-12-01

The 40Ar/39Ar technique is a powerful geochronological method that can help to unravel the evolution of the solar system. The 40Ar/39Ar system can not only record the timing of volcanic and metamorphic processes on asteroids and planets, it finds domain of predilection in dating impact events throughout the solar system. However, the 40Ar/39Ar method is a robust analytical technique if, and only if, the events to be dated are well understood and data are not over interpreted. Yet, too many 'ages' reported in the literature are still based on over-interpretation of perturbed age spectra which tends to blur the big picture. This presentation is centred on the most recent applications of the 40Ar/39Ar technique applied to planetary material and through several examples, will attempt to demonstrate the benefit of focusing on statistically robust data. For example, 40Ar/39Ar dating of volcanic events on the Moon suggests that volcanism was mostly concentrated between ca. 3.8 and 3.1 Ga but statistical filtering of the data allow identifying a few well-defined eruptive events. The study of lunar volcanism would also benefit from dating of volcanic spherules. Rigorous filtering of the 40Ar/39Ar age database of lunar melt breccias yielded concordant and ages with high precision for two major basins (i.e. Imbrium & Serenitatis) of the Moon. 40Ar/39Ar dating of lunar impact spherules recovered from four different sites and with high- and low-K compositions shows an increase of ages younger than 400 Ma suggesting a recent increase in the impact flux. The impact history of the LL parent body (bodies?) has yet to be well constrained but may mimic the LHB observed on the Moon, which would indicate that the LL parent body was quite large. 40Ar/39Ar dating (in progress) of grains from the asteroid Itokawa recovered by the japanese Hayabusa mission have the potential to constrain the formation history and exposure age of Itokawa and will allow us to compare the results with the impact history recorded by LL chondrites. Basaltic meteorites (HEDs) show a 40Ar/39Ar age range between 4.1 and 3.4 Ga, suggesting a diffuse LHB event; however, the spread of apparent ages may be a data interpretation artefact, as new solid plateau age data suggest that the bombardment by large asteroids might have occurred over a briefer period between 3.5 and 3.8 Ga.

Application of seismic-refraction techniques to hydrologic studies

USGS Publications Warehouse

Haeni, F.P.

1988-01-01

During the past 30 years, seismic-refraction methods have been used extensively in petroleum, mineral, and engineering investigations and to some extent for hydrologic applications. Recent advances in equipment, sound sources, and computer interpretation techniques make seismic refraction a highly effective and economical means of obtaining subsurface data in hydrologic studies. Aquifers that can be defined by one or more high-seismic-velocity surface, such as (1) alluvial or glacial deposits in consolidated rock valleys, (2) limestone or sandstone underlain by metamorphic or igneous rock, or (3) saturated unconsolidated deposits overlain by unsaturated unconsolidated deposits, are ideally suited for seismic-refraction methods. These methods allow economical collection of subsurface data, provide the basis for more efficient collection of data by test drilling or aquifer tests, and result in improved hydrologic studies. This manual briefly reviews the basics of seismic-refraction theory and principles. It emphasizes the use of these techniques in hydrologic investigations and describes the planning, equipment, field procedures, and interpretation techniques needed for this type of study. Further-more, examples of the use of seismic-refraction techniques in a wide variety of hydrologic studies are presented.

Advanced Neuroimaging in Traumatic Brain Injury

PubMed Central

Edlow, Brian L.; Wu, Ona

2013-01-01

Advances in structural and functional neuroimaging have occurred at a rapid pace over the past two decades. Novel techniques for measuring cerebral blood flow, metabolism, white matter connectivity, and neural network activation have great potential to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and prognosis for patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI), while also providing biomarkers to guide the development of new therapies. Several of these advanced imaging modalities are currently being implemented into clinical practice, whereas others require further development and validation. Ultimately, for advanced neuroimaging techniques to reach their full potential and improve clinical care for the many civilians and military personnel affected by TBI, it is critical for clinicians to understand the applications and methodological limitations of each technique. In this review, we examine recent advances in structural and functional neuroimaging and the potential applications of these techniques to the clinical care of patients with TBI. We also discuss pitfalls and confounders that should be considered when interpreting data from each technique. Finally, given the vast amounts of advanced imaging data that will soon be available to clinicians, we discuss strategies for optimizing data integration, visualization and interpretation. PMID:23361483

40 CFR Appendix K to Part 50 - Interpretation of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Matter

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

..., other techniques, such as the use of statistical models or the use of historical data could be..., mathematical techniques should be applied to account for the trends to ensure that the expected annual values... emission patterns, either the most recent representative year(s) could be used or statistical techniques or...

Immunohistochemistry as an Important Tool in Biomarkers Detection and Clinical Practice

PubMed Central

de Matos, Leandro Luongo; Trufelli, Damila Cristina; de Matos, Maria Graciela Luongo; da Silva Pinhal, Maria Aparecida

2010-01-01

The immunohistochemistry technique is used in the search for cell or tissue antigens that range from amino acids and proteins to infectious agents and specific cellular populations. The technique comprises two phases: (1) slides preparation and stages involved for the reaction; (2) interpretation and quantification of the obtained expression. Immunohistochemistry is an important tool for scientific research and also a complementary technique for the elucidation of differential diagnoses which are not determinable by conventional analysis with hematoxylin and eosin. In the last couple of decades there has been an exponential increase in publications on immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry techniques. This review covers the immunohistochemistry technique; its history, applications, importance, limitations, difficulties, problems and some aspects related to results interpretation and quantification. Future developments on the immunohistochemistry technique and its expression quantification should not be disseminated in two languages—that of the pathologist and another of clinician or surgeon. The scientific, diagnostic and prognostic applications of this methodology must be explored in a bid to benefit of patient. In order to achieve this goal a collaboration and pooling of knowledge from both of these valuable medical areas is vital PMID:20212918

Cognitive bias in symptomatic and recovered agoraphobics.

PubMed

Stoler, L S; McNally, R J

1991-01-01

Symptomatic agoraphobics, recovered agoraphobics, and normal control subjects completed a series of sentence stems that had either ambiguous or unambiguous meanings, and had either a potentially threatening or a nonthreatening connotation. The written completions made by subjects to these stems were classified as indicating either a biased (i.e. threat-related) or unbiased interpretation of the meaning of the stem, and if a biased interpretation was made, whether the subject indicated efforts at adaptive coping with the perceived threat. Results indicated that symptomatic agoraphobics exhibited strong biases for interpreting information as threatening, relative to normal control subjects. Moreover, recovered agoraphobics resembled symptomatic agoraphobics more than normal control subjects, thus indicating that cognitive biases may persist following cessation of panic attacks and reductions in avoidance behavior. However, recovered agoraphobics also exhibited tendencies to cope adaptively with perceived threats whereas symptomatic agoraphobics did not.

Quantitative non-destructive evaluation of composite materials based on ultrasonic wave propagation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, J. G.

1986-01-01

The application and interpretation of specific ultrasonic nondestructive evaluation techniques are studied. The Kramers-Kronig or generalized dispersion relationships are applied to nondestructive techniques. Progress was made on an improved determination of material properties of composites inferred from elastic constant measurements.

Application of multivariate statistical techniques in microbial ecology

PubMed Central

Paliy, O.; Shankar, V.

2016-01-01

Recent advances in high-throughput methods of molecular analyses have led to an explosion of studies generating large scale ecological datasets. Especially noticeable effect has been attained in the field of microbial ecology, where new experimental approaches provided in-depth assessments of the composition, functions, and dynamic changes of complex microbial communities. Because even a single high-throughput experiment produces large amounts of data, powerful statistical techniques of multivariate analysis are well suited to analyze and interpret these datasets. Many different multivariate techniques are available, and often it is not clear which method should be applied to a particular dataset. In this review we describe and compare the most widely used multivariate statistical techniques including exploratory, interpretive, and discriminatory procedures. We consider several important limitations and assumptions of these methods, and we present examples of how these approaches have been utilized in recent studies to provide insight into the ecology of the microbial world. Finally, we offer suggestions for the selection of appropriate methods based on the research question and dataset structure. PMID:26786791

Thermal history sensors for non-destructive temperature measurements in harsh environments

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

Pilgrim, C. C.; Heyes, A. L.; Feist, J. P.

2014-02-18

The operating temperature is a critical physical parameter in many engineering applications, however, can be very challenging to measure in certain environments, particularly when access is limited or on rotating components. A new quantitative non-destructive temperature measurement technique has been proposed which relies on thermally induced permanent changes in ceramic phosphors. This technique has several distinct advantages over current methods for many different applications. The robust ceramic material stores the temperature information allowing long term thermal exposures in harsh environment to be measured at a convenient time. Additionally, rare earth dopants make the ceramic phosphorescent so that the temperature informationmore » can be interpreted by automated interrogation of the phosphorescent light. This technique has been demonstrated by application of YAG doped with dysprosium and europium as coatings through the air-plasma spray process. Either material can be used to measure temperature over a wide range, namely between 300°C and 900°C. Furthermore, results show that the material records the peak exposure temperature and prolonged exposure at lower temperatures would have no effect on the temperature measurement. This indicates that these materials could be used to measure peak operating temperatures in long-term testing.« less

Calculating lunar retreat rates using tidal rhythmites

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kvale, E.P.; Johnson, H.W.; Sonett, C.P.; Archer, A.W.; Zawistoski, A.N.N.

1999-01-01

Tidal rhythmites are small-scale sedimenta??r}- structures that can preserve a hierarchy of astronomically induced tidal periods. They can also preserve a record of periodic nontidal sedimentation. If properly interpreted and understood, tidal rhjthmites can be an important component of paleoastronomy and can be used to extract information on ancient lunar orbital dynamics including changes in Earth-Moon distance through geologic time. Herein we present techniques that can be used to calculate ancient Earth-Moon distances. Each of these techniques, when used on a modern high-tide data set, results in calculated estimates of lunar orbital periods and an EarthMoon distance that fall well within 1 percent of the actual values. Comparisons to results from modern tidal data indicate that ancient tidal rhythmite data as short as 4 months can provide suitable estimates of lunar orbital periods if these tidal records are complete. An understanding of basic tidal theory allows for the evaluation of completeness of the ancient tidal record as derived from an analysis of tidal rhythmites. Utilizing the techniques presented herein, it appears from the rock record that lunar orbital retreat slowed sometime during the midPaleozoic. Copyright ??1999, SEPM (Society for Sedimentary Geology).

Fourier transform infrared evanescent wave (FTIR-FEW) spectroscopy of tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bruch, Reinhard F.; Sukuta, Sydney; Afanasyeva, Natalia I.; Kolyakov, Sergei F.; Butvina, Leonid N.

1997-05-01

A new Fourier transform infrared fiberoptic evanescent wave (FTIR-FEW) spectroscopy method has been developed for tissue diagnostics in the middle infrared (MIR) wavelength range (3 to 20 micrometers). Specific novel fiberoptical chemical and biological sensors have been studied and used for spectroscopic diagnostic purposes. These nontoxic and nonhygroscopic fiber sensors are characterized by (1) low optical losses (0.05 to 0.2 dB/m at about 10 micrometer) and (2) high flexibility. Our new fiber optical devices can be utilized with standard commercially available Fourier transform spectrometers including attenuated total reflection (ATR) techniques. They are in particular ideally suited for noninvasive, fast, direct, sensitive investigations of in vivo and ex vivo medical diagnostics applications. Here we present data on IR spectra of skin tissue in vivo for various cases of melanoma and nevus in the range of 1480 - 1800 cm-1. The interpretation of the spectra of healthy and different stages of tumor and cancer skin tissue clearly indicates that this technique can be used for precancer and cancer diagnostics. This technique can be designed for real-time and on-line computer modeling and analysis of tissue changes.

A randomized control trial comparing use of a novel electrocardiogram simulator with traditional teaching in the acquisition of electrocardiogram interpretation skill.

PubMed

Fent, Graham; Gosai, Jivendra; Purva, Makani

2016-01-01

Accurate interpretation of the electrocardiogram (ECG) remains an essential skill for medical students and junior doctors. While many techniques for teaching ECG interpretation are described, no single method has been shown to be superior. This randomized control trial is the first to investigate whether teaching ECG interpretation using a computer simulator program or traditional teaching leads to improved scores in a test of ECG interpretation among medical students and postgraduate doctors immediately after and 3months following teaching. Participants' opinions of the program were assessed using a questionnaire. There were no differences in ECG interpretation test scores immediately after or 3months after teaching in the lecture or simulator groups. At present therefore, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that ECG simulator programs are superior to traditional teaching. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Evaluating Interpreter's Skill by Measurement of Prosody Recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tanaka, Saori; Nakazono, Kaoru; Nishida, Masafumi; Horiuchi, Yasuo; Ichikawa, Akira

Sign language is a visual language in which main articulators are hands, torso, head, and face. For simultaneous interpreters of Japanese sign language (JSL) and spoken Japanese, it is very important to recognize not only the hands movement but also prosody such like head, eye, posture and facial expression. This is because prosody has grammatical rules for representing the case and modification relations in JSL. The goal of this study is to introduce an examination called MPR (Measurement of Prosody Recognition) and to demonstrate that it can be an indicator for the other general skills of interpreters. For this purpose, we conducted two experiments: the first studies the relationship between the interpreter's experience and the performance score on MPR (Experiment-1), and the second investigates the specific skill that can be estimated by MPR (Experiment-2). The data in Experiment-1 came from four interpreters who had more than 1-year experience as interpreters, and more four interpreters who had less than 1-year experience. The mean accuracy of MPR in the more experienced group was higher than that in the less experienced group. The data in Experiment-2 came from three high MPR interpreters and three low MPR interpreters. Two hearing subjects and three deaf subjects evaluated their skill in terms of the speech or sign interpretation skill, the reliability of interpretation, the expeditiousness, and the subjective sense of accomplishment for the ordering pizza task. The two experiments indicated a possibility that MPR could be useful for estimating if the interpreter is sufficiently experienced to interpret from sign language to spoken Japanese, and if they can work on the interpretation expeditiously without making the deaf or the hearing clients anxious. Finally we end this paper with suggestions for conclusions and future work.

A computer-human interaction model to improve the diagnostic accuracy and clinical decision-making during 12-lead electrocardiogram interpretation.

PubMed

Cairns, Andrew W; Bond, Raymond R; Finlay, Dewar D; Breen, Cathal; Guldenring, Daniel; Gaffney, Robert; Gallagher, Anthony G; Peace, Aaron J; Henn, Pat

2016-12-01

The 12-lead Electrocardiogram (ECG) presents a plethora of information and demands extensive knowledge and a high cognitive workload to interpret. Whilst the ECG is an important clinical tool, it is frequently incorrectly interpreted. Even expert clinicians are known to impulsively provide a diagnosis based on their first impression and often miss co-abnormalities. Given it is widely reported that there is a lack of competency in ECG interpretation, it is imperative to optimise the interpretation process. Predominantly the ECG interpretation process remains a paper based approach and whilst computer algorithms are used to assist interpreters by providing printed computerised diagnoses, there are a lack of interactive human-computer interfaces to guide and assist the interpreter. An interactive computing system was developed to guide the decision making process of a clinician when interpreting the ECG. The system decomposes the interpretation process into a series of interactive sub-tasks and encourages the clinician to systematically interpret the ECG. We have named this model 'Interactive Progressive based Interpretation' (IPI) as the user cannot 'progress' unless they complete each sub-task. Using this model, the ECG is segmented into five parts and presented over five user interfaces (1: Rhythm interpretation, 2: Interpretation of the P-wave morphology, 3: Limb lead interpretation, 4: QRS morphology interpretation with chest lead and rhythm strip presentation and 5: Final review of 12-lead ECG). The IPI model was implemented using emerging web technologies (i.e. HTML5, CSS3, AJAX, PHP and MySQL). It was hypothesised that this system would reduce the number of interpretation errors and increase diagnostic accuracy in ECG interpreters. To test this, we compared the diagnostic accuracy of clinicians when they used the standard approach (control cohort) with clinicians who interpreted the same ECGs using the IPI approach (IPI cohort). For the control cohort, the (mean; standard deviation; confidence interval) of the ECG interpretation accuracy was (45.45%; SD=18.1%; CI=42.07, 48.83). The mean ECG interpretation accuracy rate for the IPI cohort was 58.85% (SD=42.4%; CI=49.12, 68.58), which indicates a positive mean difference of 13.4%. (CI=4.45, 22.35) An N-1 Chi-square test of independence indicated a 92% chance that the IPI cohort will have a higher accuracy rate. Interpreter self-rated confidence also increased between cohorts from a mean of 4.9/10 in the control cohort to 6.8/10 in the IPI cohort (p=0.06). Whilst the IPI cohort had greater diagnostic accuracy, the duration of ECG interpretation was six times longer when compared to the control cohort. We have developed a system that segments and presents the ECG across five graphical user interfaces. Results indicate that this approach improves diagnostic accuracy but with the expense of time, which is a valuable resource in medical practice. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Focus is key: Panic-focused interpretations are associated with symptomatic improvement in panic-focused psychodynamic psychotherapy.

PubMed

Keefe, John R; Solomonov, Nili; Derubeis, Robert J; Phillips, Alexander C; Busch, Fredric N; Barber, Jacques P; Chambless, Dianne L; Milrod, Barbara L

2018-04-18

This study examines whether, in panic-focused psychodynamic psychotherapy (PFPP), interpretations of conflicts that underlie anxiety (panic-focused or PF-interpretations) are specifically associated with subsequent panic disorder (PD) symptom improvement, over and above the provision of non-symptom-focused interpretations. Technique use in Sessions 2 and 10 of a 24-session PFPP protocol was assessed for the 65 patients with complete outcome data randomized to PFPP in a two-site trial of psychotherapies for PD. Sessions were rated in 15-min segments for therapists' use of PF-interpretations, non-PF-interpretations, and PF-clarifications. Robust regressions were conducted to examine the relationship between these interventions and symptom change subsequent to the sampled session. Interpersonal problems were examined as a moderator of the relationship of PF-interpretations to symptom change. At Session 10, but not at Session 2, patients who received a higher degree of PF-interpretations experienced greater subsequent improvement in panic symptoms. Non-PF-interpretations were not predictive. Patients with more interpersonal distress benefitted particularly from the use of PF-interpretations at Session 10. By the middle phase of PFPP, panic-focused interpretations may drive subsequent improvements in panic symptoms, especially among patients with higher interpersonal distress. Interpretations of conflict absent a panic focus may not be especially helpful.

Interpretation and classification of microvolt T wave alternans tests

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bloomfield, Daniel M.; Hohnloser, Stefan H.; Cohen, Richard J.

2002-01-01

Measurement of microvolt-level T wave alternans (TWA) during routine exercise stress testing now is possible as a result of sophisticated noise reduction techniques and analytic methods that have become commercially available. Even though this technology is new, the available data suggest that microvolt TWA is a potent predictor of arrhythmia risk in diverse disease states. As this technology becomes more widely available, physicians will be called upon to interpret microvolt TWA tracings. This review seeks to establish uniform standards for the clinical interpretation of microvolt TWA tracings.

A methodology for small scale rural land use mapping in semi-arid developing countries using orbital imagery. Part 6: A low-cost method for land use mapping using simple visual techniques of interpretation. [Spain

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vangenderen, J. L. (Principal Investigator); Lock, B. F.

1976-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. It was found that color composite transparencies and monocular magnification provided the best base for land use interpretation. New methods for determining optimum sample sizes and analyzing interpretation accuracy levels were developed. All stages of the methodology were assessed, in the operational sense, during the production of a 1:250,000 rural land use map of Murcia Province, Southeast Spain.

Compound Specific Hydrogen Isotope Composition of Type II and III Kerogen Extracted by Pyrolysis-GC-MS-IRMS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Socki, Richard A.; Pernia, Denet; Evans, Michael; Fu, Qi; Bissada, Kadry K.; Curiale, Joseph A.; Niles, Paul B.

2013-01-01

The use of Hydrogen (H) isotopes in understanding oil and gas resource plays is in its infancy. Described here is a technique for H isotope analysis of organic compounds pyrolyzed from oil and gas shale-derived kerogen. Application of this technique will progress our understanding. This work complements that of Pernia et al. (2013, this meeting) by providing a novel method for the H isotope analysis of specific compounds in the characterization of kerogen extracted by analytically diverse techniques. Hydrogen isotope analyses were carried out entirely "on-line" utilizing a CDS 5000 Pyroprobe connected to a Thermo Trace GC Ultra interfaced with a Thermo MAT 253 IRMS. Also, a split of GC-separated products was sent to a DSQ II quadrupole MS to make semi-quantitative compositional measurements of the extracted compounds. Kerogen samples from five different basins (type II and III) were dehydrated (heated to 80 C overnight in vacuum) and analyzed for their H isotope compositions by Pyrolysis-GC-MS-TC-IRMS. This technique takes pyrolysis products separated via GC and reacts them in a high temperature conversion furnace (1450 C) which quantitatively forms H2, following a modified method of Burgoyne and Hayes, (1998, Anal. Chem., 70, 5136-5141). Samples ranging from approximately 0.5 to 1.0mg in size, were pyrolyzed at 800 C for 30s. Compounds were separated on a Poraplot Q GC column. Hydrogen isotope data from all kerogen samples typically show enrichment in D from low to high molecular weight compounds. Water (H2O) average deltaD = -215.2 (V-SMOW), ranging from -271.8 for the Marcellus Shale to -51.9 for the Polish Shale. Higher molecular weight compounds like toluene (C7H8) have an average deltaD of -89.7 0/00, ranging from -156.0 for the Barnett Shale to -50.0 for the Monterey Shale. We interpret these data as representative of potential H isotope exchange between hydrocarbons and sediment pore water during formation within each basin. Since hydrocarbon H isotopes readily exchange with water, these data may provide some useful information on gas-water or oil-water interaction in resource plays, and further as a possible indicator of paleo-environmental conditions. Alternatively, our data may be an indication of H isotope exchange with water and/or acid during the kerogen isolation process. Either of these interpretations will prove useful when deciphering H isotope data derived from kerogen analysis. More experiments are planned to discern these two or other possible scenarios.

Antibody detection tests improve the sensitivity of tuberculosis diagnosis in cattle.

PubMed

Casal, C; Infantes, J A; Risalde, M A; Díez-Guerrier, A; Domínguez, M; Moreno, I; Romero, B; de Juan, L; Sáez, J L; Juste, R; Gortázar, C; Domínguez, L; Bezos, J

2017-06-01

We evaluated the sensitivity (Se) of the single cervical intradermal tuberculin (SIT) test, two interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) assays and three different antibody detection techniques for bovine tuberculosis (bTB) diagnosis in 131 mixed beef breed cattle. The results of the diagnostic techniques performed over the whole herd, and over the animals confirmed as infected based on the presence of lesions compatible with the disease and/or M. bovis isolation were compared to determine apparent prevalence (AP) and Se. The Se of the SIT test (severe interpretation) was 63.7% (95% CI, 54.54-72.00), while the Se of the IFN-γ assays ranged between 60.2% and 92%. The proportion of infected cattle detected by the different antibody detection techniques ranged from 65.5% to 87.6%. Three of the antibody detection techniques yielded a significant higher (p<0.05) Se than that achieved with the official diagnostic techniques. In addition, the interpretation in parallel of cellular and antibody detection techniques reached the highest Se: 98.2% (95% CI, 93.78-99.51) suggesting that the use of diagnostic techniques detecting both cellular and humoral responses could be considered as an alternative in the control of bTB outbreaks in high prevalence settings. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Nutritional Status: The Interpretation of Indicators. Children in the Tropics: Review of the International Children's Centre.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chauliac, Michel; Masse-Raimbault, Anne-Marie

1989-01-01

The assessment of individual or community nutritional status involves the use of indicators; when properly analyzed and interpreted, these may be used to decide what strategies to implement, or how to orient activities aimed at improving nutritional status. In primary health care programs, one approach which remains underused involves obtaining…

Polarimetric imaging of biological tissues based on the indices of polarimetric purity.

PubMed

Van Eeckhout, Albert; Lizana, Angel; Garcia-Caurel, Enric; Gil, José J; Sansa, Adrià; Rodríguez, Carla; Estévez, Irene; González, Emilio; Escalera, Juan C; Moreno, Ignacio; Campos, Juan

2018-04-01

We highlight the interest of using the indices of polarimetric purity (IPPs) to the inspection of biological tissues. The IPPs were recently proposed in the literature and they result in a further synthetization of the depolarizing properties of samples. Compared with standard polarimetric images of biological samples, IPP-based images lead to larger image contrast of some biological structures and to a further physical interpretation of the depolarizing mechanisms inherent to the samples. In addition, unlike other methods, their calculation do not require advanced algebraic operations (as is the case of polar decompositions), and they result in 3 indicators of easy implementation. We also propose a pseudo-colored encoding of the IPP information that leads to an improved visualization of samples. This last technique opens the possibility of tailored adjustment of tissues contrast by using customized pseudo-colored images. The potential of the IPP approach is experimentally highlighted along the manuscript by studying 3 different ex-vivo samples. A significant image contrast enhancement is obtained by using the IPP-based methods, compared to standard polarimetric images. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Cross-Language Measurement Equivalence of Parenting Measures for use with Mexican American Populations

PubMed Central

Nair, Rajni L.; White, Rebecca M.B.; Knight, George P.; Roosa, Mark W.

2009-01-01

Increasing diversity among families in the United States often necessitates the translation of common measures into various languages. However, even when great care is taken during translations, empirical evaluations of measurement equivalence are necessary. The current study demonstrates the analytic techniques researchers should use to evaluate the measurement equivalence of translated measures. To this end we investigated the cross-language measurement equivalence of several common parenting measures in a sample of 749 Mexican American families. The item invariance results indicated similarity of factor structures across language groups for each of the parenting measures for both mothers and children. Construct validity tests indicated similar slope relations between each of the four parenting measures and the outcomes across the two language groups for both mothers and children. Equivalence in intercepts, however, was only achieved for some outcomes. These findings indicate that the use of these measures in both within group and between group analyses based on correlation/covariance structure is defensible, but researchers are cautioned against interpretations of mean level differences across these language groups. PMID:19803604

Evaluation of a Map Interpretation and Terrain Analysis Course for Nap-of-the-Earth Navigation. Research Report 1198.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holman, Garvin L.

This report documents the training effectiveness of a map interpretation and terrain analysis course (MITAC) developed to enhance the ability of helicopter pilots to navigate accurately during low altitude terrain following flight. A study comparing student aviators taught by the MITAC technique with a control group of students taught by…

How adolescent girls interpret weight-loss advertising.

PubMed

Hobbs, Renee; Broder, Sharon; Pope, Holly; Rowe, Jonelle

2006-10-01

While they demonstrate some ability to critically analyze the more obvious forms of deceptive weight-loss advertising, many girls do not recognize how advertising evokes emotional responses or how visual and narrative techniques are used to increase identification in weight-loss advertising. This study examined how girls aged 9-17 years interpreted magazine advertising, television (TV) advertising and infomercials for weight-loss products in order to determine whether deceptive advertising techniques were recognized and to assess pre-existing media-literacy skills. A total of 42 participants were interviewed in seven geographic regions of the United States. In groups of three, participants were shown seven print and TV advertisements (ads) for weight-loss products and asked to share their interpretations of each ad. Common factors in girls' interpretation of weight-loss advertising included responding to texts emotionally by identifying with characters; comparing and contrasting persuasive messages with real-life experiences with family members; using prior knowledge about nutrition management and recognizing obvious deceptive claims like 'rapid' or 'permanent' weight loss. Girls were less able to demonstrate skills including recognizing persuasive construction strategies including message purpose, target audience and subtext and awareness of economic factors including financial motives, credibility enhancement and branding.

THE DISCOVERY OF DIFFERENTIAL RADIAL ROTATION IN THE PULSATING SUBDWARF B STAR KIC 3527751

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

Foster, H. M.; Reed, M. D.; Telting, J. H.

We analyze 3 yr of nearly continuous Kepler spacecraft short cadence observations of the pulsating subdwarf B (sdB) star KIC 3527751. We detect a total of 251 periodicities, most in the g-mode domain, but some where p-modes occur, confirming that KIC 3527751 is a hybrid pulsator. We apply seismic tools to the periodicities to characterize the properties of KIC 3527751. Techniques to identify modes include asymptotic period spacing relationships, frequency multiplets, and the separation of multiplet splittings. These techniques allow for 189 (75%) of the 251 periods to be associated with pulsation modes. Included in these are three sets ofmore » ℓ = 4 multiplets and possibly an ℓ = 9 multiplet. Period spacing sequences indicate ℓ = 1 and 2 overtone spacings of 266.4 ± 0.2 and 153.2 ± 0.2 s, respectively. We also calculate reduced periods, from which we find evidence of trapped pulsations. Such mode trappings can be used to constrain the core/atmosphere transition layers. Interestingly, frequency multiplets in the g-mode region, which sample deep into the star, indicate a rotation period of 42.6 ± 3.4 days while p-mode multiplets, which sample the outer envelope, indicate a rotation period of 15.3 ± 0.7 days. We interpret this as differential rotation in the radial direction with the core rotating more slowly. This is the first example of differential rotation for a sdB star.« less

75 FR 66124 - Notice of Public Meeting, National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center Advisory Board

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-27

...] Notice of Public Meeting, National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center Advisory Board AGENCY: Bureau of Land Management, Interior. ACTION: Meeting Notice for the National Historic Oregon Trail...) National Historic Oregon Trail Interpretive Center (NHOTIC) Advisory Board will meet as indicated below...

"Getting the Point" of Literature: Relations between Processing and Interpretation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burkett, Candice; Goldman, Susan R.

2016-01-01

Comparisons of literary experts and novices indicate that experts engage in interpretive processes to "get the point" during their reading of literary texts but novices do not. In two studies the reading and interpretive processes of literary novices (undergraduates with no formal training in literature study) were elicited through…

Effects of Tasks on BOLD Signal Responses to Sentence Contrasts: Review and Commentary

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Caplan, David; Gow, David

2012-01-01

Functional neuroimaging studies of syntactic processing have been interpreted as identifying the neural locations of parsing and interpretive operations. However, current behavioral studies of sentence processing indicate that many operations occur simultaneously with parsing and interpretation. In this review, we point to issues that arise in…

Statistical Knowledge and the Over-Interpretation of Student Evaluations of Teaching

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boysen, Guy A.

2017-01-01

Research shows that teachers interpret small differences in student evaluations of teaching as meaningful even when available statistical information indicates that the differences are not reliable. The current research explored the effect of statistical training on college teachers' tendency to over-interpret student evaluation differences. A…

Preferences for Verb Interpretation in Children with Specific Language Impairment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kelly, Donna J.; Rice, Mabel L.

1994-01-01

This study examined initial preferences for verb interpretation by 15 5-year-old children with specific language impairment, 15 language-matched children, and 15 age-matched children. Children indicated preferred interpretations of novel verbs from videotapes of motion and change-of-state activity scenes. Findings suggested that children's verb…

Effectiveness of Myocardial Contrast Echocardiography Quantitative Analysis during Adenosine Stress versus Visual Analysis before Percutaneous Therapy in Acute Coronary Pain: A Coronary Artery TIMI Grading Comparing Study

PubMed Central

Yang, Lixia; Mu, Yuming; Quaglia, Luiz Augusto; Tang, Qi; Guan, Lina; Wang, Chunmei; Shih, Ming Chi

2012-01-01

The study aim was to compare two different stress echocardiography interpretation techniques based on the correlation with thrombosis in myocardial infarction (TIMI ) flow grading from acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients. Forty-one patients with suspected ACS were studied before diagnostic coronary angiography with myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE) at rest and at stress. The correlation of visual interpretation of MCE and TIMI flow grade was significant. The quantitative analysis (myocardial perfusion parameters: A, β, and A × β) and TIMI flow grade were significant. MCE visual interpretation and TIMI flow grade had a high degree of agreement, on diagnosing myocardial perfusion abnormality. If one considers TIMI flow grade <3 as abnormal, MCE visual interpretation at rest had 73.1% accuracy with 58.2% sensitivity and 84.2% specificity and at stress had 80.4% accuracy with 76.6% sensitivity and 83.3% specificity. The MCE quantitative analysis has better accuracy with 100% of agreement with different level of TIMI flow grading. MCE quantitative analysis at stress has showed a direct correlation with TIMI flow grade, more significant than the visual interpretation technique. Further studies could measure the clinical relevance of this more objective approach to managing acute coronary syndrome patient before percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). PMID:22778555

[Drama and forgiveness: the mechanism of action of a new technique in group therapy--face therapy].

PubMed

Csigó, Katalin; Bender, Márta; Németh, Attila

2006-01-01

In our article we relate our experiences of the face therapy--group therapy sessions held at 2nd Psychiatric Ward of Nyíró Gyula Hospital. Face therapy uses the elements of art therapy and psychodrama: patients form their own head from gypsum and paint it. During the sessions, we analyse the heads and patients reveal their relation to their head. Our paper also presents the structure of thematic sessions and the features of the creative and processing phase. The phenomena that occur during group therapy (self-presentation, self-destruction, creativity) are interpreted with the concepts of psychodynamics and psychodrama. Finally, possible areas of indication are suggested for face therapy and the treatment possibilities for self-destructive phenomena.

Characterization and Distribution of Lunar Mare Basalt Types Using Remote Sensing Techniques. Ph.D. Thesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pieters, C.

1977-01-01

The types of basal to be found on the moon were identified using reflectance spectra from a variety of lunar mare surfaces and craters as well as geochemical interpretations of laboratory measurements of reflectance from lunar, terrestrial, and meteoritic samples. Findings indicate that major basaltic units are not represented in lunar sample collections. The existence of late stage high titanium basalts is confirmed. All maria contain lateral variations of compositionally heterogenous basalts; some are vertically inhomogenous with distinctly different subsurface composition. Some basalt types are spectrally gradational, suggesting minor variations in composition. Mineral components of unsampled units can be defined if spectra are obtained with sufficient spectral coverage (.3 to 2.5 micron m) and spatial resolution (approximating .5 km).

Age differences in attention toward decision-relevant information: education matters.

PubMed

Xing, Cai; Isaacowitz, Derek

2011-01-01

Previous studies suggested that older adults are more likely to engage in heuristic decision-making than young adults. This study used eye tracking technique to examine young adults' and highly educated older adults' attention toward two types of decision-relevant information: heuristic cue vs. factual cues. Surprisingly, highly educated older adults showed the reversed age pattern-they looked more toward factual cues than did young adults. This age difference disappeared after controlling for educational level. Additionally, education correlated with attentional pattern to decision-relevant information. We interpret this finding as an indication of the power of education: education may modify what are thought to be "typical" age differences in decision-making, and education may influence young and older people's decision-making via different paths.

Limitations of fluorescence spectroscopy to characterize organic matter in engineered systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Korak, J.

2017-12-01

Fluorescence spectroscopy has been widely used to characterize dissolved organic matter (DOM) in engineered systems, such as drinking water, municipal wastewater and industrial water treatment. While fluorescence data collected in water treatment applications has led to the development of strong empirical relationships between fluorescence responses and process performance, the use of fluorescence to infer changes in the underlying organic matter chemistry is often oversimplified and applied out of context. Fluorescence only measures a small fraction of DOM as fluorescence quantum yields are less than 5% for many DOM sources. Relying on fluorescence as a surrogate for DOM presence, character or reactivity may not be appropriate for systems where small molecular weight, hydrophilic constituents unlikely to fluoresce are important. In addition, some methods rely on interpreting fluorescence signals at different excitation wavelengths as a surrogate for operationally-defined humic- and fulvic-acids in lieu of traditional XAD fractionation techniques, but these approaches cannot be supported by other lines of evidence considering natural abundance and fluorescence quantum yields of these fractions. These approaches also conflict with parallel factor analysis (PARAFAC), a statistical approach that routinely identifies fluorescence components with dual excitation behavior. Lastly, methods developed for natural systems are often applied out of context to engineered systems. Fluorescence signals characteristic of phenols or indoles are often interpreted as indicators for biological activity in natural systems due to fluorescent amino acids and peptides, but this interpretation is may not be appropriate in engineering applications where non-biological sources of phenolic functional groups may be present. This presentation explores common fluorescence interpretation approaches, discusses the limitations and provides recommendations related to engineered systems.

Using normal ranges for interpreting results of monitoring and tiering to guide future work: A case study of increasing polycyclic aromatic compounds in lake sediments from the Cold Lake oil sands (Alberta, Canada) described in Korosi et al. (2016).

PubMed

Munkittrick, Kelly R; Arciszewski, Tim J

2017-12-01

Since the publishing of the Kelly et al. papers (2009, 2010) describing elevated contaminants in snow near the Alberta oil sands, there has been a significant expansion of monitoring efforts, enhanced by $50M a year contributed by industry to a regional Joint Oil Sands Monitoring (JOSM) program. In parallel to the intensification of research and monitoring efforts, including expansion of measured indicators, techniques for chemical analysis have also become more sensitive. Both factors contribute to the increased sensitivity and power, and improve our capacity to detect any change. The increase in capability requires a counterbalance to account for trivial change. This can be done using an interpretative approach that requires contextualization of differences to meaningfully inform environmental monitoring programs and provide focus for action. Experience obtained through 25 years of involvement with Canada's Environmental Effects Monitoring (EEM) program has shown that a tiered program informed by triggers can provide the context to make decisions about monitoring priorities. Here we provide a potential interpretation framework using a case study around the Korosi et al. (2016) study which found recent increases in alkylated polycyclic aromatic compounds (aPACs) in the Cold Lake in situ oil sands area. Public contaminant profiles from the JOSM studies in the oil sands region are used to evaluate the changes using an interpretation framework based on estimated normal ranges using existing data for site-specific, local and regional (distant) levels that was modelled after the tiered Canadian EEM design. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The effect of variation in interpretation of the La Trobe radiographic foot atlas on the prevalence of foot osteoarthritis in older women: the Chingford general population cohort.

PubMed

McQueen, Peter; Gates, Lucy; Marshall, Michelle; Doherty, Michael; Arden, Nigel; Bowen, Catherine

2017-01-01

The prevalence of foot osteoarthritis (OA) is much less understood than hip, knee and hand OA. The foot is anatomically complex and different researchers have investigated different joints with lack of methodological standardisation across studies. The La Trobe Foot Atlas (LFA) is the first to address these issues in providing quantitative assessment of radiographic foot OA, but has not been tested externally. The aim of this study was to evaluate three different interpretive approaches to using the LFA for grading OA when scoring is difficult due to indistinct views of interosseous space and joint contour. Foot radiographs of all remaining participants ( n  = 218) assessed in the Chingford Women Study 23 year visit (mean (SD) for age: 75.5 years (5.1)) were scored using the LFA defined protocol (Technique 1). Two revised scoring strategies were applied to the radiographs in addition to the standard LFA analyses. Technique 2 categorised joints that were difficult to grade as 'missing'. Technique 3 included joints that were difficult to grade as an over estimated score. Radiographic OA prevalence was defined for the foot both collectively and separately for individual joints. When radiographs were scored using the LFA (Technique 1), radiographic foot OA was present in 89.9%. For Technique 2 the presence of radiographic foot OA was 83.5% and for Technique 3 it was 97.2%. At the individual joint level, using Technique 1, the presence of radiographic foot OA was higher with a wider range (18.3-74.3%) than Technique 2 (17.9-46.3%) and lower with a wider range (18.3-74.3%) than Technique 3 (39.9-79.4%). The three different ways of interpreting the LFA scoring system when grading of individual joints is technically difficult and result in very different estimates of foot OA prevalence at both the individual joint and global foot level. Agreement on the best strategy is required to improve comparability between studies.

Air quality as respiratory health indicator: a critical review.

PubMed

Moshammer, Hanns; Wallner, Peter

2011-09-01

As part of the European Public Health project IMCA II validity and practicability of "air pollution" as a respiratory health indicator were analyzed. The definitions of air quality as an indicator proposed by the WHO project ECOEHIS and by IMCA I were compared. The public availability of the necessary data was checked through access to web-based data-bases. Practicability and interpretation of the indicator were discussed with project partners and external experts. Air quality serves as a kind of benchmark for the good health-related environmental policy. In this sense, it is a relevant health indicator. Although air quality is not directly in the responsibility of health policy, its vital importance for the population's health should not be neglected. In principle, data is available to calculate this IMCA indicator for any chosen area in Europe. The indicator is relevant and informative, but calculation and interpretation need input from local expert knowledge. The European health policy is well advised to take air quality into account. To that end, an interdisciplinary approach is warranted. The proposed definition of air quality as a (respiratory) health indicator is workable, but correct interpretation depends on expert and local knowledge.

Lithostratigraphic interpretation from joint analysis of seismic tomography and magnetotelluric resistivity models using self-organizing map techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bauer, K.; Muñoz, G.; Moeck, I.

2012-12-01

The combined interpretation of different models as derived from seismic tomography and magnetotelluric (MT) inversion represents a more efficient approach to determine the lithology of the subsurface compared with the separate treatment of each discipline. Such models can be developed independently or by application of joint inversion strategies. After the step of model generation using different geophysical methodologies, a joint interpretation work flow includes the following steps: (1) adjustment of a joint earth model based on the adapted, identical model geometry for the different methods, (2) classification of the model components (e.g. model blocks described by a set of geophysical parameters), and (3) re-mapping of the classified rock types to visualise their distribution within the earth model, and petrophysical characterization and interpretation. One possible approach for the classification of multi-parameter models is based on statistical pattern recognition, where different models are combined and translated into probability density functions. Classes of rock types are identified in these methods as isolated clusters with high probability density function values. Such techniques are well-established for the analysis of two-parameter models. Alternatively we apply self-organizing map (SOM) techniques, which have no limitations in the number of parameters to be analysed in the joint interpretation. Our SOM work flow includes (1) generation of a joint earth model described by so-called data vectors, (2) unsupervised learning or training, (3) analysis of the feature map by adopting image processing techniques, and (4) application of the knowledge to derive a lithological model which is based on the different geophysical parameters. We show the usage of the SOM work flow for a synthetic and a real data case study. Both tests rely on three geophysical properties: P velocity and vertical velocity gradient from seismic tomography, and electrical resistivity from MT inversion. The synthetic data are used as a benchmark test to demonstrate the performance of the SOM method. The real data were collected along a 40 km profile across parts of the NE German basin. The lithostratigraphic model from the joint SOM interpretation consists of eight litho-types and covers Cenozoic, Mesozoic and Paleozoic sediments down to 5 km depth. There is a remarkable agreement between the SOM based model and regional marker horizons interpolated from surrounding 2D industrial seismic data. The most interesting results include (1) distinct properties of the Jurassic (low P velocity gradients, low resistivities) interpreted as the signature of shaly clastics, and (2) a pattern within the Upper Permian Zechstein with decreased resistivities and increased P velocities within the salt depressions on the one hand, and increased resistivities and decreased P velocities in the salt pillows on the other hand. In our interpretation this pattern is related with flow of less dense salt matrix components into the pillows and remaining brittle evaporites within the depressions.

Salience of the Nuclear Threat: Operationalization through Spontaneous Concern.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mayton, Daniel M., II

An indirect/nonreactive technique of assessing spontaneous concern should be used to examine the salience of the threat of nuclear war. Direct/reactive techniques may produce inconsistent results and inadvertently enhance a false consensus. The procedures for the administration, scoring, and interpretation of a spontaneous concern measure along…

Science in Drama: Using Television Programmes to Teach Concepts and Techniques

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rutter, Gordon

2011-01-01

By using a specific episode of the popular television cartoon series "The Simpsons," a range of techniques can be communicated, including microscope setup and use, simple chemical analysis, observation, and interpretation. Knowledge of blood groups and typing, morphological comparison of hair samples, fingerprint analysis, and DNA fingerprinting…

Technique and interpretation in tree seed radiography

Treesearch

Howard B. Kriebel

1966-01-01

The study of internal seed structure by radiography requires techniques which will give good definition. To establish the best procedures, we conducted a series of experiments in which we manipulated the principal controllable variables affecting the quality of X-radiographs: namely, focus-to-film distance, film speed (grain), exposure time, kilovoltage, and...

Graphical Representation of University Image: A Correspondence Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yavas, Ugar; Shemwell, Donald J.

1996-01-01

Correspondence analysis, an easy-to-interpret interdependence technique, portrays data graphically to show associations of factors more clearly. A study used the technique with 58 students in one university to determine factors in college choice. Results identified the institution's closest competitors and its positioning in terms of college…

A methodology for producing small scale rural land use maps in semi-arid developing countries using orbital imagery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vangenderen, J. L. (Principal Investigator); Lock, B. F.

1976-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. Results have shown that it is feasible to design a methodology that can provide suitable guidelines for operational production of small scale rural land use maps of semiarid developing regions from LANDSAT MSS imagery, using inexpensive and unsophisticated visual techniques. The suggested methodology provides immediate practical benefits to map makers attempting to produce land use maps in countries with limited budgets and equipment. Many preprocessing and interpretation techniques were considered, but rejected on the grounds that they were inappropriate mainly due to the high cost of imagery and/or equipment, or due to their inadequacy for use in operational projects in the developing countries. Suggested imagery and interpretation techniques, consisting of color composites and monocular magnification proved to be the simplest, fastest, and most versatile methods.

Digital image classification approach for estimating forest clearing and regrowth rates and trends

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sader, Steven A.

1987-01-01

A technique is presented to monitor vegetation changes for a selected study area in Costa Rica. A normalized difference vegetation index was computed for three dates of Landsat satellite data and a modified parallelipiped classifier was employed to generate a multitemporal greenness image representing all three dates. A second-generation image was created by partitioning the intensity levels at each date into high, medium, and low and thereby reducing the number of classes to 21. A sampling technique was applied to describe forest and other land cover change occurring between time periods based on interpretation of aerial photography that closely matched the dates of satellite acquisition. Comparison of the Landsat-derived classes with the photo-interpreted sample areas can provide a basis for evaluating the satellite monitoring technique and the accuracy of estimating forest clearing and regrowth rates and trends.

aCGH-MAS: Analysis of aCGH by means of Multiagent System

PubMed Central

Benito, Rocío; Bajo, Javier; Rodríguez, Ana Eugenia; Abáigar, María

2015-01-01

There are currently different techniques, such as CGH arrays, to study genetic variations in patients. CGH arrays analyze gains and losses in different regions in the chromosome. Regions with gains or losses in pathologies are important for selecting relevant genes or CNVs (copy-number variations) associated with the variations detected within chromosomes. Information corresponding to mutations, genes, proteins, variations, CNVs, and diseases can be found in different databases and it would be of interest to incorporate information of different sources to extract relevant information. This work proposes a multiagent system to manage the information of aCGH arrays, with the aim of providing an intuitive and extensible system to analyze and interpret the results. The agent roles integrate statistical techniques to select relevant variations and visualization techniques for the interpretation of the final results and to extract relevant information from different sources of information by applying a CBR system. PMID:25874203

[Introduction to Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA)].

PubMed

Martínez, Carolina Méndez; Sepúlveda, Martín Alonso Rondón

2012-03-01

Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) has become one of the most frequently used statistical techniques, especially in the medical and social sciences. Given its popularity, it is essential to understand the basic concepts necessary for its proper application and to take into consideration the main strengths and weaknesses of this technique. To present in a clear and concise manner the main applications of this technique, to determine the basic requirements for its use providing a description step by step of its methodology, and to establish the elements that must be taken into account during its preparation in order to not incur in erroneous results and interpretations. Narrative review. This review identifies the basic concepts and briefly describes the objectives, design, assumptions, and methodology to achieve factor derivation, global adjustment evaluation, and adequate interpretation of results. Copyright © 2012 Asociación Colombiana de Psiquiatría. Publicado por Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

Development and application of operational techniques for the inventory and monitoring of resources and uses for the Texas coastal zone. [Galvaston Bay and San Antonio test sites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, R. (Principal Investigator); Harwood, P.; Finley, R.; Clements, G.; Lodwick, L.; Mcculloch, S.; Marphy, D.

1976-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. The most significant ADP result was the modification of the DAM package to produce classified printouts, scaled and registered to U.S.G.S., 71/2 minute topographic maps from LARSYS-type classification files. With this modification, all the powerful scaling and registration capabilities of DAM become available for multiclass classification files. The most significant results with respect to image interpretation were the application of mapping techniques to a new, more complex area, and the refinement of an image interpretation procedure which should yield the best results.

The dendritic spine story: an intriguing process of discovery.

PubMed

DeFelipe, Javier

2015-01-01

Dendritic spines are key components of a variety of microcircuits and they represent the majority of postsynaptic targets of glutamatergic axon terminals in the brain. The present article will focus on the discovery of dendritic spines, which was possible thanks to the application of the Golgi technique to the study of the nervous system, and will also explore the early interpretation of these elements. This discovery represents an interesting chapter in the history of neuroscience as it shows us that progress in the study of the structure of the nervous system is based not only on the emergence of new techniques but also on our ability to exploit the methods already available and correctly interpret their microscopic images.

Advanced Gas Hydrate Reservoir Modeling Using Rock Physics

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

McConnell, Daniel

Prospecting for high saturation gas hydrate deposits can be greatly aided with improved approaches to seismic interpretation and especially if sets of seismic attributes can be shown as diagnostic or direct hydrocarbon indicators for high saturation gas hydrates in sands that would be of most interest for gas hydrate production. A large 3D seismic data set in the deep water Eastern Gulf of Mexico was screened for gas hydrates using a set of techniques and seismic signatures that were developed and proven in the Central deepwater Gulf of Mexico in the DOE Gulf of Mexico Joint Industry Project JIP Legmore » II in 2009 and recently confirmed with coring in 2017. A large gas hydrate deposit is interpreted in the data where gas has migrated from one of the few deep seated faults plumbing the Jurassic hydrocarbon source into the gas hydrate stability zone. The gas hydrate deposit lies within a flat-lying within Pliocene Mississippi Fan channel that was deposited outboard in a deep abyssal environment. The uniform architecture of the channel aided the evaluation of a set of seismic attributes that relate to attenuation and thin-bed energy that could be diagnostic of gas hydrates. Frequency attributes derived from spectral decomposition also proved to be direct hydrocarbon indicators by pseudo-thickness that could be only be reconciled by substituting gas hydrate in the pore space. The study emphasizes that gas hydrate exploration and reservoir characterization benefits from a seismic thin bed approach.« less

Current perspective on assessing site of digestion in ruminants.

PubMed

Merchen, N R; Elizalde, J C; Drackley, J K

1997-08-01

The site of nutrient digestion in the gastrointestinal tract of ruminants affects nutrient availability and the nature of digestive end-products supplied to the host animal. Methods to study site of digestion in vivo provide a tool to obtain data that enhance the ability to interpret or predict animal responses to some feeding practices. Examples are discussed for which site of digestion data provided insights that might not have been evident from other approaches. The use of site of digestion techniques may provide interpretation regarding digestion of N by ruminants different from those derived from measurement of total tract N digestion. Site of digestion measurements have been particularly important in studying effects of heat processing of protein sources and in understanding the nature of digestion of N in high-quality, fresh forages. Moreover, site of digestion techniques have been instrumental in interpreting the influences of supplemental fat sources on ruminal digestion and ruminal biohydrogenation and small intestinal digestion of long-chain fatty acids.

Proteomic data analysis of glioma cancer stem-cell lines based on novel nonlinear dimensional data reduction techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lespinats, Sylvain; Pinker-Domenig, Katja; Wengert, Georg; Houben, Ivo; Lobbes, Marc; Stadlbauer, Andreas; Meyer-Bäse, Anke

2016-05-01

Glioma-derived cancer stem cells (GSCs) are tumor-initiating cells and may be refractory to radiation and chemotherapy and thus have important implications for tumor biology and therapeutics. The analysis and interpretation of large proteomic data sets requires the development of new data mining and visualization approaches. Traditional techniques are insufficient to interpret and visualize these resulting experimental data. The emphasis of this paper lies in the application of novel approaches for the visualization, clustering and projection representation to unveil hidden data structures relevant for the accurate interpretation of biological experiments. These qualitative and quantitative methods are applied to the proteomic analysis of data sets derived from the GSCs. The achieved clustering and visualization results provide a more detailed insight into the protein-level fold changes and putative upstream regulators for the GSCs. However the extracted molecular information is insufficient in classifying GSCs and paving the pathway to an improved therapeutics of the heterogeneous glioma.

Possible Alternatives to the Supermassive Black Hole at the Galactic Center

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakharov, A. F.

2015-12-01

Now there are two basic observational techniques to investigate a gravitational potential at the Galactic Center, namely, (a) monitoring the orbits of bright stars near the Galactic Center to reconstruct a gravitational potential; (b) measuring the size and shape of shadows around black hole giving an alternative possibility to evaluate black hole parameters in mm-band with VLBI-technique. At the moment, one can use a small relativistic correction approach for stellar orbit analysis (however, in the future the approximation will not be precise enough due to enormous progress of observational facilities) while for smallest structure analysis in VLBI observations one really needs a strong gravitational field approximation. We discuss results of observations, their conventional interpretations, tensions between observations and models and possible hints for a new physics from the observational data and tensions between observations and interpretations. We discuss an opportunity to use a Schwarzschild metric for data interpretation or we have to use more exotic models such as Reissner-Nordstrom or Schwarzschild-de-Sitter metrics for better fits.

How Many Wolves (Canis lupus) Fit into Germany? The Role of Assumptions in Predictive Rule-Based Habitat Models for Habitat Generalists

PubMed Central

Fechter, Dominik; Storch, Ilse

2014-01-01

Due to legislative protection, many species, including large carnivores, are currently recolonizing Europe. To address the impending human-wildlife conflicts in advance, predictive habitat models can be used to determine potentially suitable habitat and areas likely to be recolonized. As field data are often limited, quantitative rule based models or the extrapolation of results from other studies are often the techniques of choice. Using the wolf (Canis lupus) in Germany as a model for habitat generalists, we developed a habitat model based on the location and extent of twelve existing wolf home ranges in Eastern Germany, current knowledge on wolf biology, different habitat modeling techniques and various input data to analyze ten different input parameter sets and address the following questions: (1) How do a priori assumptions and different input data or habitat modeling techniques affect the abundance and distribution of potentially suitable wolf habitat and the number of wolf packs in Germany? (2) In a synthesis across input parameter sets, what areas are predicted to be most suitable? (3) Are existing wolf pack home ranges in Eastern Germany consistent with current knowledge on wolf biology and habitat relationships? Our results indicate that depending on which assumptions on habitat relationships are applied in the model and which modeling techniques are chosen, the amount of potentially suitable habitat estimated varies greatly. Depending on a priori assumptions, Germany could accommodate between 154 and 1769 wolf packs. The locations of the existing wolf pack home ranges in Eastern Germany indicate that wolves are able to adapt to areas densely populated by humans, but are limited to areas with low road densities. Our analysis suggests that predictive habitat maps in general, should be interpreted with caution and illustrates the risk for habitat modelers to concentrate on only one selection of habitat factors or modeling technique. PMID:25029506

A Flow-Cytometric Gram-Staining Technique for Milk-Associated Bacteria

PubMed Central

Holm, Claus; Jespersen, Lene

2003-01-01

A Gram-staining technique combining staining with two fluorescent stains, Oregon Green-conjugated wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) and hexidium iodide (HI) followed by flow-cytometric detection is described. WGA stains gram-positive bacteria while HI binds to the DNA of all bacteria after permeabilization by EDTA and incubation at 50°C for 15 min. For WGA to bind to gram-positive bacteria, a 3 M potassium chloride solution was found to give the highest fluorescence intensity. A total of 12 strains representing some of the predominant bacterial species in bulk tank milk and mixtures of these were stained and analyzed by flow cytometry. Overall, the staining method showed a clear differentiation between gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial populations. For stationary-stage cultures of seven gram-positive bacteria and five gram-negative bacteria, an average of 99% of the cells were correctly interpreted. The method was only slightly influenced by the growth phase of the bacteria or conditions such as freezing at −18°C for 24 h. For any of these conditions, an average of at least 95% of the cells were correctly interpreted. When stationary-stage cultures were stored at 5°C for 14 days, an average of 86% of the cells were correctly interpreted. The Gram-staining technique was applied to the flow cytometry analysis of bulk tank milk inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. These results demonstrate that the technique is suitable for analyzing milk samples without precultivation. PMID:12732558

A flow-cytometric gram-staining technique for milk-associated bacteria.

PubMed

Holm, Claus; Jespersen, Lene

2003-05-01

A Gram-staining technique combining staining with two fluorescent stains, Oregon Green-conjugated wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) and hexidium iodide (HI) followed by flow-cytometric detection is described. WGA stains gram-positive bacteria while HI binds to the DNA of all bacteria after permeabilization by EDTA and incubation at 50 degrees C for 15 min. For WGA to bind to gram-positive bacteria, a 3 M potassium chloride solution was found to give the highest fluorescence intensity. A total of 12 strains representing some of the predominant bacterial species in bulk tank milk and mixtures of these were stained and analyzed by flow cytometry. Overall, the staining method showed a clear differentiation between gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial populations. For stationary-stage cultures of seven gram-positive bacteria and five gram-negative bacteria, an average of 99% of the cells were correctly interpreted. The method was only slightly influenced by the growth phase of the bacteria or conditions such as freezing at -18 degrees C for 24 h. For any of these conditions, an average of at least 95% of the cells were correctly interpreted. When stationary-stage cultures were stored at 5 degrees C for 14 days, an average of 86% of the cells were correctly interpreted. The Gram-staining technique was applied to the flow cytometry analysis of bulk tank milk inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. These results demonstrate that the technique is suitable for analyzing milk samples without precultivation.

Younger and Older Adults' "Good-Enough" Interpretations of Garden-Path Sentences

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Christianson, Kiel; Williams, Carrick C.; Zacks, Rose T.; Ferreira, Fernanda

2006-01-01

We report 3 experiments that examined younger and older adults' reliance on "good-enough" interpretations for garden-path sentences (e.g., "While Anna dressed the baby played in the crib") as indicated by their responding "Yes" to questions probing the initial, syntactically unlicensed interpretation (e.g., "Did Anna dress the baby?"). The…

Latin American Consensus on the use of transcranial Doppler in the diagnosis of brain death

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Transcranial Doppler evaluates cerebral hemodynamics in patients with brain injury and is a useful technical tool in diagnosing cerebral circulatory arrest, usually present in the brain-dead patient. This Latin American Consensus was formed by a group of 26 physicians experienced in the use of transcranial Doppler in the context of brain death. The purpose of this agreement was to make recommendations regarding the indications, technique, and interpretation of the study of transcranial ultrasonography in patients with a clinical diagnosis of brain death or in the patient whose clinical diagnosis presents difficulties; a working group was formed to enable further knowledge and to strengthen ties between Latin American physicians working on the same topic. A review of the literature, concepts, and experiences were exchanged in two meetings and via the Internet. Questions about pathophysiology, equipment, techniques, findings, common problems, and the interpretation of transcranial Doppler in the context of brain death were answered. The basic consensus statements are the following: cerebral circulatory arrest is the final stage in the evolution of progressive intracranial hypertension, which is visualized with transcranial Doppler as a "pattern of cerebral circulatory arrest". The following are accepted as the standard of cerebral circulatory arrest: reverberant pattern, systolic spikes, and absence of previously demonstrated flow. Ultrasonography should be used - in acceptable hemodynamic conditions - in the anterior circulation bilaterally (middle cerebral artery) and in the posterior (basilar artery) territory. If no ultrasonographic images are found in any or all of these vessels, their proximal arteries are acceptable to be studied to look for a a pattern of cerebral circulatory arrest. PMID:25295818

Dreaming and insight

PubMed Central

Edwards, Christopher L.; Ruby, Perrine M.; Malinowski, Josie E.; Bennett, Paul D.; Blagrove, Mark T.

2013-01-01

This paper addresses claims that dreams can be a source of personal insight. Whereas there has been anecdotal backing for such claims, there is now tangential support from findings of the facilitative effect of sleep on cognitive insight, and of REM sleep in particular on emotional memory consolidation. Furthermore, the presence in dreams of metaphorical representations of waking life indicates the possibility of novel insight as an emergent feature of such metaphorical mappings. In order to assess whether personal insight can occur as a result of the consideration of dream content, 11 dream group discussion sessions were conducted which followed the Ullman Dream Appreciation technique, one session for each of 11 participants (10 females, 1 male; mean age = 19.2 years). Self-ratings of deepened self-perception and personal gains from participation in the group sessions showed that the Ullman technique is an effective procedure for establishing connections between dream content and recent waking life experiences, although wake life sources were found for only 14% of dream report text. The mean Exploration-Insight score on the Gains from Dream Interpretation questionnaire was very high and comparable to outcomes from the well-established Hill (1996) therapist-led dream interpretation method. This score was associated between-subjects with pre-group positive Attitude Toward Dreams (ATD). The need to distinguish “aha” experiences as a result of discovering a waking life source for part of a dream, from “aha” experiences of personal insight as a result of considering dream content, is discussed. Difficulties are described in designing a control condition to which the dream report condition can be compared. PMID:24550849

Faulting and groundwater in a desert environment: constraining hydrogeology using time-domain electromagnetic data

USGS Publications Warehouse

Bedrosian, Paul A.; Burgess, Matthew K.; Nishikawa, Tracy

2013-01-01

Within the south-western Mojave Desert, the Joshua Basin Water District is considering applying imported water into infiltration ponds in the Joshua Tree groundwater sub-basin in an attempt to artificially recharge the underlying aquifer. Scarce subsurface hydrogeological data are available near the proposed recharge site; therefore, time-domain electromagnetic (TDEM) data were collected and analysed to characterize the subsurface. TDEM soundings were acquired to estimate the depth to water on either side of the Pinto Mountain Fault, a major east-west trending strike-slip fault that transects the proposed recharge site. While TDEM is a standard technique for groundwater investigations, special care must be taken when acquiring and interpreting TDEM data in a twodimensional (2D) faulted environment. A subset of the TDEM data consistent with a layered-earth interpretation was identified through a combination of three-dimensional (3D) forward modelling and diffusion time-distance estimates. Inverse modelling indicates an offset in water table elevation of nearly 40 m across the fault. These findings imply that the fault acts as a low-permeability barrier to groundwater flow in the vicinity of the proposed recharge site. Existing production wells on the south side of the fault, together with a thick unsaturated zone and permeable near-surface deposits, suggest the southern half of the study area is suitable for artificial recharge. These results illustrate the effectiveness of targeted TDEM in support of hydrological studies in a heavily faulted desert environment where data are scarce and the cost of obtaining these data by conventional drilling techniques is prohibitive.

Rapid and quantitative detection of the microbial spoilage of meat by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and machine learning.

PubMed

Ellis, David I; Broadhurst, David; Kell, Douglas B; Rowland, Jem J; Goodacre, Royston

2002-06-01

Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy is a rapid, noninvasive technique with considerable potential for application in the food and related industries. We show here that this technique can be used directly on the surface of food to produce biochemically interpretable "fingerprints." Spoilage in meat is the result of decomposition and the formation of metabolites caused by the growth and enzymatic activity of microorganisms. FT-IR was exploited to measure biochemical changes within the meat substrate, enhancing and accelerating the detection of microbial spoilage. Chicken breasts were purchased from a national retailer, comminuted for 10 s, and left to spoil at room temperature for 24 h. Every hour, FT-IR measurements were taken directly from the meat surface using attenuated total reflectance, and the total viable counts were obtained by classical plating methods. Quantitative interpretation of FT-IR spectra was possible using partial least-squares regression and allowed accurate estimates of bacterial loads to be calculated directly from the meat surface in 60 s. Genetic programming was used to derive rules showing that at levels of 10(7) bacteria.g(-1) the main biochemical indicator of spoilage was the onset of proteolysis. Thus, using FT-IR we were able to acquire a metabolic snapshot and quantify, noninvasively, the microbial loads of food samples accurately and rapidly in 60 s, directly from the sample surface. We believe this approach will aid in the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point process for the assessment of the microbiological safety of food at the production, processing, manufacturing, packaging, and storage levels.

The Influence of Basic Physical Properties of Soil on its Electrical Resistivity Value under Loose and Dense Condition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abidin, M. H. Z.; Ahmad, F.; Wijeyesekera, D. C.; Saad, R.

2014-04-01

Electrical resistivity technique has become a famous alternative tool in subsurface characterization. In the past, several interpretations of electrical resistivity results were unable to be delivered in a strong justification due to lack of appreciation of soil mechanics. Traditionally, interpreters will come out with different conclusion which commonly from qualitative point of view thus creating some uncertainty regarding the result reliability. Most engineers desire to apply any techniques in their project which are able to provide some clear justification with strong, reliable and meaningful results. In order to reduce the problem, this study presents the influence of basic physical properties of soil due to the electrical resistivity value under loose and dense condition. Two different conditions of soil embankment model were tested under electrical resistivity test and basic geotechnical test. It was found that the electrical resistivity value (ERV, ρ) was highly influenced by the variations of soil basic physical properties (BPP) with particular reference to moisture content (w), densities (ρbulk/dry), void ratio (e), porosity (η) and particle grain fraction (d) of soil. Strong relationship between ERV and BPP can be clearly presents such as ρ ∞ 1/w, ρ ∞ 1/ρbulk/dry, ρ ∞ e and ρ ∞ η. This study therefore contributes a means of ERV data interpretation using BPP in order to reduce ambiguity of ERV result and interpretation discussed among related persons such as geophysicist, engineers and geologist who applied these electrical resistivity techniques in subsurface profile assessment.

Towards Symbolic Model Checking for Multi-Agent Systems via OBDDs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Raimondi, Franco; Lomunscio, Alessio

2004-01-01

We present an algorithm for model checking temporal-epistemic properties of multi-agent systems, expressed in the formalism of interpreted systems. We first introduce a technique for the translation of interpreted systems into boolean formulae, and then present a model-checking algorithm based on this translation. The algorithm is based on OBDD's, as they offer a compact and efficient representation for boolean formulae.

The Brahmaputra tale of tectonics and erosion: Early Miocene river capture in the Eastern Himalaya

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bracciali, Laura; Najman, Yani; Parrish, Randall R.; Akhter, Syed H.; Millar, Ian

2015-04-01

The Himalayan orogen provides a type example on which a number of models of the causes and consequences of crustal deformation are based and it has been suggested that it is the site of a variety of feedbacks between tectonics and erosion. Within the broader orogen, fluvial drainages partly reflect surface uplift, different climatic zones and a response to crustal deformation. In the eastern Himalaya, the unusual drainage configuration of the Yarlung Tsangpo-Brahmaputra River has been interpreted either as antecedent drainage distorted by the India-Asia collision (and as such applied as a passive strain marker of lateral extrusion), latest Neogene tectonically-induced river capture, or glacial damming-induced river diversion events. Here we apply a multi-technique approach to the Neogene paleo-Brahmaputra deposits of the Surma Basin (Bengal Basin, Bangladesh) to test the long-debated occurrence and timing of river capture of the Yarlung Tsangpo by the Brahmaputra River. We provide U-Pb detrital zircon and rutile, isotopic (Sr-Nd and Hf) and petrographic evidence consistent with river capture of the Yarlung Tsangpo by the Brahmaputra River in the Early Miocene. We document influx of Cretaceous-Paleogene zircons in Early Miocene sediments of the paleo-Brahmaputra River that we interpret as first influx of material from the Asian plate (Transhimalayan arc) indicative of Yarlung Tsangpo contribution. Prior to capture, the predominantly Precambrian-Paleozoic zircons indicate that only the Indian plate was drained. Contemporaneous with Transhimalayan influx reflecting the river capture, we record arrival of detrital material affected by Cenozoic metamorphism, as indicated by rutiles and zircons with Cenozoic U-Pb ages and an increase in metamorphic grade of detritus as recorded by petrography. We interpret this as due to a progressively increasing contribution from the erosion of the metamorphosed core of the orogen. Whole rock Sr-Nd isotopic data from the same samples provide further support to this interpretation. River capture may have been caused by a change in relative base level due to uplift of the Tibetan plateau. Assuming such river capture occurred via the Siang River in the Early Miocene, we refute the "tectonic aneurysm" model of tectonic-erosion coupling between river capture and rapid exhumation of the eastern syntaxis, since a time interval of at least 10 Ma between these two events is now demonstrated. This work is also the first to highlight U-Pb dating on detrital rutile as a powerful approach in provenance studies in the Himalaya in combination with zircon U-Pb chronology.

Ecobat: An online resource to facilitate transparent, evidence-based interpretation of bat activity data.

PubMed

Lintott, Paul R; Davison, Sophie; van Breda, John; Kubasiewicz, Laura; Dowse, David; Daisley, Jonathan; Haddy, Emily; Mathews, Fiona

2018-01-01

Acoustic surveys of bats are one of the techniques most commonly used by ecological practitioners. The results are used in Ecological Impact Assessments to assess the likely impacts of future developments on species that are widely protected in law, and to monitor developments' postconstruction. However, there is no standardized methodology for analyzing or interpreting these data, which can make the assessment of the ecological value of a site very subjective. Comparisons of sites and projects are therefore difficult for ecologists and decision-makers, for example, when trying to identify the best location for a new road based on relative bat activity levels along alternative routes. Here, we present a new web-based, data-driven tool, Ecobat, which addresses the need for a more robust way of interpreting ecological data. Ecobat offers users an easy, standardized, and objective method for analyzing bat activity data. It allows ecological practitioners to compare bat activity data at regional and national scales and to generate a numerical indicator of the relative importance of a night's worth of bat activity. The tool is free and open-source; because the underlying algorithms are already developed, it could easily be expanded to new geographical regions and species. Data donation is required to ensure the robustness of the analyses; we use a positive feedback mechanism to encourage ecological practitioners to share data by providing in return high quality, contextualized data analysis, and graphical visualizations for direct use in ecological reports.

Use of micro-resistivity imaging tools in developing lower Pennsylvanian Morrow channel sandstone reservoirs, Cheyenne, Kiowa and Lincoln Counties, Colorado

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

Germinario, M.P.

1996-01-01

In southeastern Colorado, Lower Pennsylvanian Morrow channel sandstones are part of complex valley-fill sequences incised into Morrow marine deposits. Morrow valleys are approximately [1/2] to 1 mile wide. Valley-fill consists of floodplain and channel filling shales, very fine-grained estuarine sandstones and fine- to coarse-grained channel sandstones that are up to 50' thick. Channel sandstones represent a sequence of stacked fluvial bars deposited in braided, anastomosing and meandering fluvial environments. Cross-stratification in channel sandstones can be imaged by micro-resistivity wireline logging tools and interpreted interactively on various workstation software packages. Recognition, interpretation and measurement of current, stoss face, and lateral accretionmore » beds in these sandstones can result in an estimated direction of paleocurrent flow of the channel. Determination of the channel's local paleoflow direction can provide significant sand risk reduction in developmental drilling, especially in 80 acre or less spacing patterns. As the distance between offset drilling locations increases, the reliability of paleoflow prediction decreases, and the corresponding sand risk rises. Lateral accretion bedding in Morrow channel sandstones has proven to be a poor indicator of sand thickening direction, due to the complex stacking of multiple channel sandstones within any given valley-fill sequence. Micro-resistivity imaging reduces risk in Morrow channel sandstone development drilling programs. Furthermore, these interpretation techniques could be applicable in other fluvial channel sandstone plays.« less

Use of micro-resistivity imaging tools in developing lower Pennsylvanian Morrow channel sandstone reservoirs, Cheyenne, Kiowa and Lincoln Counties, Colorado

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

Germinario, M.P.

1996-12-31

In southeastern Colorado, Lower Pennsylvanian Morrow channel sandstones are part of complex valley-fill sequences incised into Morrow marine deposits. Morrow valleys are approximately {1/2} to 1 mile wide. Valley-fill consists of floodplain and channel filling shales, very fine-grained estuarine sandstones and fine- to coarse-grained channel sandstones that are up to 50` thick. Channel sandstones represent a sequence of stacked fluvial bars deposited in braided, anastomosing and meandering fluvial environments. Cross-stratification in channel sandstones can be imaged by micro-resistivity wireline logging tools and interpreted interactively on various workstation software packages. Recognition, interpretation and measurement of current, stoss face, and lateral accretionmore » beds in these sandstones can result in an estimated direction of paleocurrent flow of the channel. Determination of the channel`s local paleoflow direction can provide significant sand risk reduction in developmental drilling, especially in 80 acre or less spacing patterns. As the distance between offset drilling locations increases, the reliability of paleoflow prediction decreases, and the corresponding sand risk rises. Lateral accretion bedding in Morrow channel sandstones has proven to be a poor indicator of sand thickening direction, due to the complex stacking of multiple channel sandstones within any given valley-fill sequence. Micro-resistivity imaging reduces risk in Morrow channel sandstone development drilling programs. Furthermore, these interpretation techniques could be applicable in other fluvial channel sandstone plays.« less

Consensus Recommendations for Evaluation, Interpretation, and Utilization of Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Enterography in Patients With Small Bowel Crohn's Disease.

PubMed

Bruining, David H; Zimmermann, Ellen M; Loftus, Edward V; Sandborn, William J; Sauer, Cary G; Strong, Scott A

2018-03-01

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance enterography have become routine small bowel imaging tests to evaluate patients with established or suspected Crohn's disease, but the interpretation and use of these imaging modalities can vary widely. A shared understanding of imaging findings, nomenclature, and utilization will improve the utility of these imaging techniques to guide treatment options, as well as assess for treatment response and complications. Representatives from the Society of Abdominal Radiology Crohn's Disease-Focused Panel, the Society of Pediatric Radiology, the American Gastroenterological Association, and other experts, systematically evaluated evidence for imaging findings associated with small bowel Crohn's disease enteric inflammation and established recommendations for the evaluation, interpretation, and use of computed tomography and magnetic resonance enterography in small bowel Crohn's disease. This work makes recommendations for imaging findings that indicate small bowel Crohn's disease, how inflammatory small bowel Crohn's disease and its complications should be described, elucidates potential extra-enteric findings that may be seen at imaging, and recommends that cross-sectional enterography should be performed at diagnosis of Crohn's disease and considered for small bowel Crohn's disease monitoring paradigms. A useful morphologic construct describing how imaging findings evolve with disease progression and response is described, and standard impressions for radiologic reports that convey meaningful information to gastroenterologists and surgeons are presented. © 2018, RSNA, AGA Institute, and Society of Abdominal Radiology This article is being published jointly in Radiology and Gastroenterology.

Consensus Recommendations for Evaluation, Interpretation, and Utilization of Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Enterography in Patients With Small Bowel Crohn's Disease.

PubMed

Bruining, David H; Zimmermann, Ellen M; Loftus, Edward V; Sandborn, William J; Sauer, Cary G; Strong, Scott A

2018-03-01

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance enterography have become routine small bowel imaging tests to evaluate patients with established or suspected Crohn's disease, but the interpretation and use of these imaging modalities can vary widely. A shared understanding of imaging findings, nomenclature, and utilization will improve the utility of these imaging techniques to guide treatment options, as well as assess for treatment response and complications. Representatives from the Society of Abdominal Radiology Crohn's Disease-Focused Panel, the Society of Pediatric Radiology, the American Gastroenterological Association, and other experts, systematically evaluated evidence for imaging findings associated with small bowel Crohn's disease enteric inflammation and established recommendations for the evaluation, interpretation, and use of computed tomography and magnetic resonance enterography in small bowel Crohn's disease. This work makes recommendations for imaging findings that indicate small bowel Crohn's disease, how inflammatory small bowel Crohn's disease and its complications should be described, elucidates potential extra-enteric findings that may be seen at imaging, and recommends that cross-sectional enterography should be performed at diagnosis of Crohn's disease and considered for small bowel Crohn's disease monitoring paradigms. A useful morphologic construct describing how imaging findings evolve with disease progression and response is described, and standard impressions for radiologic reports that convey meaningful information to gastroenterologists and surgeons are presented. Copyright © 2018 AGA Institute, RSNA, and Society of Abdominal Radiology. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Interpretation of VLF-EM & VLF-R data using tipper and impedance analyses: A case study from Candi Umbul-Telomoyo, Magelang, Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prastyani, Erina; Niasari, Sintia Windhi

2017-07-01

The goal of all geophysical survey techniques is to image the properties of the Earth's subsurface. Very Low Frequency (VLF) is one of the geophysical survey technique that has been commonly used for ore exploration and mapping faults or fracture zones. Faults or fracture zones are necessary components in providing the fluid pathway in geothermal systems. The Candi Umbul-Telomoyo is one of the geothermal prospect sites in Indonesia, which is located in Magelang, Central Java. Recent studies hypothesized that this site was an outflow area of Telomoyo volcano geothermal complex. We used the VLF-EM and VLF-R techniques to infer faults or fracture zones that might be a path for geothermal fluids in the Candi Umbul-Telomoyo. From the measurements, we got tilt angle, ellipticity, primary and secondary magnetic fieldfor VLF-EM data; and apparent resistivity, phase angle, electric and magnetic field for VLF-R data. To interpret the data, we used tipper and impedance analyses. The result of both analyses show similarities in the directions and positions of anomalous current concentrations. We conclude these anomalous current concentrations as faults. Our interpretation is agreeing with the Geologic Map of the Semarang and Magelang Quadrangles that shows the expected fault beneath the Mt. Telomoyo.

Using x-ray mammograms to assist in microwave breast image interpretation.

PubMed

Curtis, Charlotte; Frayne, Richard; Fear, Elise

2012-01-01

Current clinical breast imaging modalities include ultrasound, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and the ubiquitous X-ray mammography. Microwave imaging, which takes advantage of differing electromagnetic properties to obtain image contrast, shows potential as a complementary imaging technique. As an emerging modality, interpretation of 3D microwave images poses a significant challenge. MR images are often used to assist in this task, and X-ray mammograms are readily available. However, X-ray mammograms provide 2D images of a breast under compression, resulting in significant geometric distortion. This paper presents a method to estimate the 3D shape of the breast and locations of regions of interest from standard clinical mammograms. The technique was developed using MR images as the reference 3D shape with the future intention of using microwave images. Twelve breast shapes were estimated and compared to ground truth MR images, resulting in a skin surface estimation accurate to within an average Euclidean distance of 10 mm. The 3D locations of regions of interest were estimated to be within the same clinical area of the breast as corresponding regions seen on MR imaging. These results encourage investigation into the use of mammography as a source of information to assist with microwave image interpretation as well as validation of microwave imaging techniques.

Electromagnetic studies of global geodynamic processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarits, Pascal

1994-03-01

The deep electromagnetic sounding (DES) technique is one of the few geophysical methods, along with seismology, gravity, heat flow, which may be use to probe the structure of the Earth's mantle directly. The interpretation of the DESs may provide electrical conductivity profiles down to the upper part of the lower mantle. The electrical conductivity is extremely sensitive to most of the thermodynamic processes we believe are acting in the Earth's mantle (temperature increases, partial melting, phase transition and to a lesser extent pressure). Therefore, in principle, results from DES along with laboratory measurements could be used to constrain models of these processes. The DES technique is reviewed in the light of recent results obtained in a variety of domains: data acquisition and analysis, global induction modeling and data inversion and interpretation. The mechanisms and the importance of surface distortions of the DES data are reviewed and techniques to model them are discussed. The recent results in terms of the conductivity distribution in the mantle from local and global DES are presented and a tentative synthesis is proposed. The geodynamic interpretations of the deep conductivity structures are reviewed. The existence of mantle lateral heterogeneities in conductivity at all scales and depths for which electromagnetic data are available is now well documented. A comparison with global results from seismology is presented.

Telepathology and Optical Biopsy

PubMed Central

Ferrer-Roca, Olga

2009-01-01

The ability to obtain information about the structure of tissue without taking a sample for pathology has opened the way for new diagnostic techniques. The present paper reviews all currently available techniques capable of producing an optical biopsy, with or without morphological images. Most of these techniques are carried out by physicians who are not specialized in pathology and therefore not trained to interpret the results as a pathologist would. In these cases, the use of telepathology or distant consultation techniques is essential. PMID:20339507

Effects of vial packing density on drying rate during freeze-drying of carbohydrates or a model protein measured using a vial-weighing technique.

PubMed

Gieseler, Henning; Lee, Geoffrey

2008-02-01

To determine the effects of vial packing density in a laboratory freeze dryer on drying rate profiles of crystalline and amorphous formulations. The Christ freeze-drying balance measured cumulative water loss, m(t), and instantaneous drying rate, m(t), of water, mannitol, sucrose and sucrose/BSA formulations in commercial vials. Crystalline mannitol shows drying rate behaviour indicative of a largely homogeneous dried-product layer. The drying rate behaviour of amorphous sucrose indicates structural heterogeneity, postulated to come from shrinkage or microcollapse. Trehalose dries more slowly than sucrose. Addition of BSA to either disaccharide decreases primary drying time. Higher vial packing density greatly reduces drying rate because of effects of radiation heat transfer from chamber walls to test vial. Plots of m(t) versus radical t and m(t) versus layer thickness (either ice or dried-product) allow interpretation of changes in internal cake morphology during drying. Vial packing density greatly influences these profiles.

Analysis of Student’s Skills on the Concept Dynamic Electricity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Safrina, I.; Maknun, J.; Hasanah, L.

2017-09-01

Physics becomes one of the science lessons in schools that guide student to apply materials in everyday life and commnicating the results natural phenomena. This study intended to figure out understanding skill and argumentation skill on the concept dynamic electricity. This study was descriptive research of senior high school students in South Tangerang. Technique of collecting data was done by test method and interview. The understanding skill refers to indicators of conceptual understanding in the cognitive process of Bloom’s Taxonomy Revision, which contains the indicators were explaining, interpreting, summarizing, comparing, classifying, and inferring. While the argumentation skill refers to Toulmin’s Argumentation Pattern (TAP) which contains the components of claim, evidence, warrant, and backing. The result showed that ability of explaining was higher and ability of comparing was lower. The component of claim was higher and backing was lower. Based on the result, it can be conclude that understanding skill and argumentation skill still less. They have been teached to student with inovation learning method.

[In life determination of the physiological status of decapod crustaceans (Crustacea: Decapoda) by hematological characteristics].

PubMed

Aleksandrova, E N; Kovacheva, N P

2010-01-01

The application of hematological analysis techniques to detecting the physiological status of the economically valued decapods during their culturing, and in monitoring of the condition of their natural populations, is restrained by the incomplete knowledge of these invertebrates circulatory system and its properties. Scarce data on the use of hematological indicators for determining the physiological status of decapods may be found sporadically in published sources; there is shortage of basic standards needed for interpretation of the analytical results. In this regard the paper considers some data on the major properties of hemolymph and its cellular elements; on methods of their examination; and on the results of application of hematological characteristics to assessing the physiological condition of various species of decapods. The hematological indicators suitable for the analysis of live decapods include: time of coagulation and buffer characteristic of hemolymph; concentration of total proteins, copper, calcium, glucose and lactates in it; total number of hemocytes with the consideration of granulocytes share.

Replication of elite music performance enhancement following alpha/theta neurofeedback and application to novice performance and improvisation with SMR benefits.

PubMed

Gruzelier, J H; Holmes, P; Hirst, L; Bulpin, K; Rahman, S; van Run, C; Leach, J

2014-01-01

Alpha/theta (A/T) and sensory-motor rhythm (SMR) neurofeedback were compared in university instrumentalists who were novice singers with regard to prepared and improvised instrumental and vocal performance in three music domains: creativity/musicality, technique and communication/presentation. Only A/T training enhanced advanced playing seen in all three domains by expert assessors and validated by correlations with learning indices, strongest with Creativity/Musicality as shown by Egner and Gruzelier (2003). Here A/T gains extended to novice performance - prepared vocal, improvised vocal and instrumental - and were recognised by a lay audience who judged the prepared folk songs. SMR learning correlated positively with Technical Competence and Communication in novice performance, in keeping with SMR neurofeedback's known impact on lower-order processes such as attention, working memory and psychomotor skills. The importance of validation through learning indices was emphasised in the interpretation of neurofeedback outcome. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Ancient-Turned-New Concept of "Spiritual Hygiene": An Investigation of Media Coverage of Meditation from 1979 to 2014.

PubMed

Lauricella, Sharon

2016-10-01

A spiritual-yet not religious-practice, meditation has been touted as beneficial to boosting the immune system, lowering blood pressure, alleviating migraines, and increasing gray matter in parts of the brain. While scientific research on meditation is beginning to quantify its benefits, there is increasing concern among the scientific community that news outlets glorify the potential benefits of meditation. This paper considers coverage of meditation in mainstream print media by analyzing 764 articles printed in English from worldwide media outlets from 1979 to 2014. Frame theory analysis is employed to better understand how meditation is presented in print media and how the perception of the practice is interpreted by readers. Results indicate that articles reflect the health and wellness challenges present in contemporary culture, together with a desire for personal relief from such issues. The paper suggests that the practice of meditation as "spiritual hygiene" is indicative of a sociocultural shift in which meditative techniques are becoming increasingly recognized, encouraged, and practiced.

Pet Food Palatability Evaluation: A Review of Standard Assay Techniques and Interpretation of Results with a Primary Focus on Limitations

PubMed Central

Aldrich, Gregory C.; Koppel, Kadri

2015-01-01

Simple Summary Palatability of pet foods is typically measured using a single-bowl or a two-bowl test. While these tests give a general understanding of the liking or preference of one food over another, opportunities exist for further method development. Abstract The pet food industry continues to grow steadily as a result of new innovative products. Quality control and product development tests for pet foods are typically conducted through palatability testing with dogs and cats. Palatability is the measure of intake of a food that indicates acceptance or the measure of preference of one food over another. Pet food palatability is most commonly measured using a single-bowl or a two-bowl assay. While these tests answer some questions about the animals’ perception of the food, there are many limitations as well. This review addresses some of these limitations and indicates opportunities for future research. PMID:26479136

Iridium profile for 10 million years across the Cretaceous-Tertiary boundary at Gubbio (Italy)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alvarez, Walter; Asaro, Frank; Montanari, Alessandro

1990-01-01

The iridium anomaly at the Cretaceous-Tertiary (KT) boundary was discovered in the pelagic limestone sequence at Gubbio on the basis of 12 samples analyzed by neutron activation analysis (NAA) and was interpreted as indicating impact of a large extraterrestrial object at exactly the time of the KT mass extinction. Continuing controversy over the shape of the Ir profile at the Gubbio KT boundary and its interpretation called for a more detailed follow-up study. Analysis of a 57-meter-thick, 10-million-year-old part of the Gubbio sequence using improved NAA techniques revealed that there is only one Ir anomaly at the KT boundary, but this anomaly shows an intricate fine structure, the origin of which cannot yet be entirely explained. The KT Ir anomaly peaks in a 1-centimeter-thick clay layer, where the average Ir concentration is 3000 parts per trillion (ppt); this peak is flanked by tails with Ir concentrations of 20 to 80 ppt that rise above a background of 12 to 13 ppt. The fine structure of the tails is probably due in part to lateral reworking, diffusion, burrowing, and perhaps Milankovitch cyclicity.

Study of clutter origin in in-vivo epi-optoacoustic imaging of human forearms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Preisser, Stefan; Held, Gerrit; Akarçay, Hidayet G.; Jaeger, Michael; Frenz, Martin

2016-09-01

Epi-optoacoustic (OA) imaging offers flexible clinical diagnostics of the human body when the irradiation optic is attached to or directly integrated into the acoustic probe. Epi-OA images, however, encounter clutter that deteriorates contrast and significantly limits imaging depth. This study elaborates clutter origin in clinical epi-optoacoustic imaging using a linear array probe for scanning the human forearm. We demonstrate that the clutter strength strongly varies with the imaging location but stays stable over time, indicating that clutter is caused by anatomical structures. OA transients which are generated by strong optical absorbers located at the irradiation spot were identified to be the main source of clutter. These transients obscure deep in-plane OA signals when detected by the transducer either directly or after being acoustically scattered in the imaging plane. In addition, OA transients generated in the skin below the probe result in acoustic reverberations, which cause problems in image interpretation and limit imaging depth. Understanding clutter origin allows a better interpretation of clinical OA imaging, helps to design clutter compensation techniques and raises the prospect of contrast optimization via the design of the irradiation geometry.

Launching nurse-initiated HIV rapid testing in Veterans Affairs primary care: a comprehensive overview of a self-sustaining implementation.

PubMed

Knapp, H; Anaya, H D; Feld, J E; Hoang, T; Goetz, M B

2011-12-01

Our objectives were to use foundational pilot findings to guide the implementation of an HIV rapid testing (RT) intervention at one Veterans Affairs outpatient clinic and to evaluate the success and sustainability of this intervention over the course of one year. Policy modifications were drafted and adopted to enable nurses to order, administer, interpret and document HIV RTs. Staff enrolled in a two-part training sessions designed to teach pre- and post-test counselling techniques and the mechanics of administering, interpreting and coding test results in the patients' medical records. They were subsequently evaluated on their efforts at: (1) increasing HIV RT, (2) sustaining this effort one year post-launch. Enabling nurses to carry out HIV RT resulted in a significant increase in not only HIV RT, but also HIV testing rates overall at this facility, measured over the first year of this implementation. Our findings indicate that targeted strategies, aimed at increasing HIV RT rates, worked to increase testing rates overall, and also, that our initial testing strategies were independently sustainable, which is in contrast to findings in the literature on implementation science.

Confocal endomicroscopy: Is it time to move on?

PubMed

Robles-Medranda, Carlos

2016-01-10

Confocal laser endomicroscopy permits in-vivo microscopy evaluation during endoscopy procedures. It can be used in all the parts of the gastrointestinal tract and includes: Esophagus, stomach, small bowel, colon, biliary tract through and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and pancreas through needles during endoscopic ultrasound procedures. Many researches demonstrated a high correlation of results between confocal laser endomicroscopy and histopathology in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal lesions; with accuracy in about 86% to 96%. Moreover, in spite that histopathology remains the gold-standard technique for final diagnosis of any diseases; a considerable number of misdiagnosis rate could be present due to many factors such as interpretation mistakes, biopsy site inaccuracy, or number of biopsies. Theoretically; with the diagnostic accuracy rates of confocal laser endomicroscopy could help in a daily practice to improve diagnosis and treatment management of the patients. However, it is still not routinely used in the clinical practice due to many factors such as cost of the procedure, lack of codification and reimbursement in some countries, absence of standard of care indications, availability, physician image-interpretation training, medico-legal problems, and the role of the pathologist. These limitations are relative, and solutions could be found based on new researches focused to solve these barriers.

Meta-evaluation of published studies on evaluation of health disaster preparedness exercises through a systematic review.

PubMed

Sheikhbardsiri, Hojjat; Yarmohammadian, Mohammad H; Khankeh, Hamid Reza; Nekoei-Moghadam, Mahmoud; Raeisi, Ahmad Reza

2018-01-01

Exercise evaluation is one of the most important steps and sometimes neglected in designing and taking exercises, in this stage of exercise, it systematically identifying, gathering, and interpreting related information to indicate how an exercise has fulfilled its objectives. The present study aimed to assess the most important evaluation techniques applied in evaluating health exercises for emergencies and disasters. This was meta-evaluation study through a systematic review. In this research, we searched papers based on specific and relevant keywords in research databases including ISI web of science, PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Ovid, ProQuest, Wiley, Google Scholar, and Persian database such as ISC and SID. The search keywords and strategies are followed; "simulation," "practice," "drill," "exercise," "instrument," "tool," "questionnaire," " measurement," "checklist," "scale," "test," "inventory," "battery," "evaluation," "assessment," "appraisal," "emergency," "disaster," "cricise," "hazard," "catastrophe,: "hospital", "prehospital," "health centers," "treatment centers," were used in combination with Boolean operators OR and AND. The research findings indicate that there are different techniques and methods for data collection to evaluate performance exercises of health centers and affiliated organizations in disasters and emergencies including debriefing inventories, self-report, questionnaire, interview, observation, shooting video, and photographing, electronic equipment which can be individually or collectively used depending on exercise objectives or purposes. Taking exercise in the health sector is one of the important steps in preparation and implementation of disaster risk management programs. This study can be thus utilized to improve preparedness of different sectors of health system according to the latest available evaluation techniques and methods for better implementation of disaster exercise evaluation stages.

Tolerance of brightness and contrast adjustments on chronic apical abscess and apical granuloma interpretation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Purnamasari, L.; Iskandar, H. H. B.; Makes, B. N.

2017-08-01

In digitized radiography techniques, adjusting the image enhancement can improve the subjective image quality by optimizing the brightness and contrast for diagnostic needs. To determine the value range of image enhancement (brightness and contrast) on chronic apical abscess and apical granuloma interpretation. 30 periapical radiographs that diagnosed chronic apical abscess and 30 that diagnosed apical granuloma were adjusted by changing brightness and contrast values. The value range of brightness and contrast adjustment that can be tolerated in radiographic interpretations of chronic apical abscess and apical granuloma spans from -10 to +10. Brightness and contrast adjustments on digital radiographs do not affect the radiographic interpretation of chronic apical abscess and apical granuloma if conducted within the value range.

The effect of four instructional methods, gender, and time of testing on the achievement of sixth graders learning to interpret graphs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, Jerry Wayne

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of four instructional methods (direct instruction, computer-aided instruction, video observation, and microcomputer-based lab activities), gender, and time of testing (pretest, immediate posttest for determining the immediate effect of instruction, and a delayed posttest two weeks later to determine the retained effect of the instruction) on the achievement of sixth graders who were learning to interpret graphs of displacement and velocity. The dependent variable of achievement was reflected in the scores earned by students on a testing instrument of established validity and reliability. The 107 students participating in the study were divided by gender and were then randomly assigned to the four treatment groups, each taught by a different teacher. Each group had approximately equal numbers of males and females. The students were pretested and then involved in two class periods of the instructional method which was unique to their group. Immediately following treatment they were posttested and two weeks later they were posttested again. The data in the form of test scores were analyzed with a two-way split-plot analysis of variance to determine if there was significant interaction among technique, gender, and time of testing. When significant interaction was indicated, the Tukey HSD test was used to determine specific mean differences. The results of the analysis indicated no gender effect. Only students in the direct instruction group and the microcomputer-based laboratory group had significantly higher posttest-1 scores than pretest scores. They also had significantly higher posttest-2 scores than pretest scores. This suggests that the learning was retained. The other groups experienced no significant differences among pretest, posttest-1, and posttest-2 scores. Recommendations are that direct instruction and microcomputer-based laboratory activities should be considered as effective stand-alone methods for teaching sixth grade students to interpret graphs of displacement and velocity. However, video and computer instruction may serve as supplemental activities.

Assessing the validity of discourse analysis: transdisciplinary convergence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaipal-Jamani, Kamini

2014-12-01

Research studies using discourse analysis approaches make claims about phenomena or issues based on interpretation of written or spoken text, which includes images and gestures. How are findings/interpretations from discourse analysis validated? This paper proposes transdisciplinary convergence as a way to validate discourse analysis approaches to research. The argument is made that discourse analysis explicitly grounded in semiotics, systemic functional linguistics, and critical theory, offers a credible research methodology. The underlying assumptions, constructs, and techniques of analysis of these three theoretical disciplines can be drawn on to show convergence of data at multiple levels, validating interpretations from text analysis.

DART-MS: A New Analytical Technique for Forensic Paint Analysis.

PubMed

Marić, Mark; Marano, James; Cody, Robert B; Bridge, Candice

2018-06-05

Automotive paint evidence is one of the most significant forms of evidence obtained in automotive-related incidents. Therefore, the analysis of automotive paint evidence is imperative in forensic casework. Most analytical schemes for automotive paint characterization involve optical microscopy, followed by infrared spectroscopy and pyrolysis-gas chromatography mass spectrometry ( py-GCMS) if required. The main drawback with py-GCMS, aside from its destructive nature, is that this technique is relatively time intensive in comparison to other techniques. Direct analysis in real-time-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (DART-TOFMS) may provide an alternative to py-GCMS, as the rapidity of analysis and minimal sample preparation affords a significant advantage. In this study, automotive clear coats from four vehicles were characterized by DART-TOFMS and a standard py-GCMS protocol. Principal component analysis was utilized to interpret the resultant data and suggested the two techniques provided analogous sample discrimination. Moreover, in some instances DART-TOFMS was able to identify components not observed by py-GCMS and vice versa, which indicates that the two techniques may provide complementary information. Additionally, a thermal desorption/pyrolysis DART-TOFMS methodology was also evaluated to characterize the intact paint chips from the vehicles to ascertain if the linear temperature gradient provided additional discriminatory information. All the paint samples were able to be discriminated based on the distinctive thermal desorption plots afforded from this technique, which may also be utilized for sample discrimination. On the basis of the results, DART-TOFMS may provide an additional tool to the forensic paint examiner.

Microbial Growth and Metabolism in Soil - Refining the Interpretation of Carbon Use Efficiency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geyer, K.; Frey, S. D.

2016-12-01

Carbon use efficiency (CUE) describes a critical step in the terrestrial carbon cycle where microorganisms partition organic carbon (C) between stabilized organic forms and CO2. Application of this concept, however, begins with accurate measurements of CUE. Both traditional and developing approaches still depend on numerous assumptions that render them difficult to interpret and potentially incompatible with one another. Here we explore the soil processes inherent to traditional (e.g., substrate-based, biomass-based) and emerging (e.g., growth rate-based, calorimetry) CUE techniques in order to better understand the information they provide. Soil from the Harvard Forest Long Term Ecological Research (LTER) site in Massachusetts, USA, was amended with both 13C-glucose and 18O-water and monitored over 72 h for changes in dissolved organic carbon (DOC), respiration (R), microbial biomass (MB), DNA synthesis, and heat flux (Q). Four different CUE estimates were calculated: 1) (ΔDOC - R)/ΔDOC (substrate-based), 2) Δ13C-MB/(Δ13C-MB + R) (biomass-based), 3) Δ18O-DNA/(Δ18O-DNA + R) (growth rate-based), 4) Q/R (energy-based). Our results indicate that microbial growth (estimated by both 13C and 18O techniques) was delayed for 40 h after amendment even though DOC had declined to pre-amendment levels within 48 h. Respiration and heat flux also peaked after 40 h. Although these soils have a relatively high organic C content (5% C), respired CO2 was greater than 88% glucose-derived throughout the experiment. All estimates of microbial growth (Spearman's ρ >0.83, p<0.01) and efficiency (Spearman's ρ >0.65, p<0.05) were positively correlated, but strong differences in the magnitude of CUE suggest incomplete C accounting. This work increases the transparency of CUE techniques for researchers looking to choose the most appropriate measure for their scale of inquiry or to use CUE estimates in modeling applications.

Seasonal assessment and apportionment of surface water pollution using multivariate statistical methods: Sinos River, southern Brazil.

PubMed

Alves, Darlan Daniel; Riegel, Roberta Plangg; de Quevedo, Daniela Müller; Osório, Daniela Montanari Migliavacca; da Costa, Gustavo Marques; do Nascimento, Carlos Augusto; Telöken, Franko

2018-06-08

Assessment of surface water quality is an issue of currently high importance, especially in polluted rivers which provide water for treatment and distribution as drinking water, as is the case of the Sinos River, southern Brazil. Multivariate statistical techniques allow a better understanding of the seasonal variations in water quality, as well as the source identification and source apportionment of water pollution. In this study, the multivariate statistical techniques of cluster analysis (CA), principal component analysis (PCA), and positive matrix factorization (PMF) were used, along with the Kruskal-Wallis test and Spearman's correlation analysis in order to interpret a water quality data set resulting from a monitoring program conducted over a period of almost two years (May 2013 to April 2015). The water samples were collected from the raw water inlet of the municipal water treatment plant (WTP) operated by the Water and Sewage Services of Novo Hamburgo (COMUSA). CA allowed the data to be grouped into three periods (autumn and summer (AUT-SUM); winter (WIN); spring (SPR)). Through the PCA, it was possible to identify that the most important parameters in contribution to water quality variations are total coliforms (TCOLI) in SUM-AUT, water level (WL), water temperature (WT), and electrical conductivity (EC) in WIN and color (COLOR) and turbidity (TURB) in SPR. PMF was applied to the complete data set and enabled the source apportionment water pollution through three factors, which are related to anthropogenic sources, such as the discharge of domestic sewage (mostly represented by Escherichia coli (ECOLI)), industrial wastewaters, and agriculture runoff. The results provided by this study demonstrate the contribution provided by the use of integrated statistical techniques in the interpretation and understanding of large data sets of water quality, showing also that this approach can be used as an efficient methodology to optimize indicators for water quality assessment.

Direct push driven in situ color logging tool (CLT): technique, analysis routines, and application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Werban, U.; Hausmann, J.; Dietrich, P.; Vienken, T.

2014-12-01

Direct push technologies have recently seen a broad development providing several tools for in situ parameterization of unconsolidated sediments. One of these techniques is the measurement of soil colors - a proxy information that reveals to soil/sediment properties. We introduce the direct push driven color logging tool (CLT) for real-time and depth-resolved investigation of soil colors within the visible spectrum. Until now, no routines exist on how to handle high-resolved (mm-scale) soil color data. To develop such a routine, we transform raw data (CIEXYZ) into soil color surrogates of selected color spaces (CIExyY, CIEL*a*b*, CIEL*c*h*, sRGB) and denoise small-scale natural variability by Haar and Daublet4 wavelet transformation, gathering interpretable color logs over depth. However, interpreting color log data as a single application remains challenging. Additional information, such as site-specific knowledge of the geological setting, is required to correlate soil color data to specific layers properties. Hence, we exemplary provide results from a joint interpretation of in situ-obtained soil color data and 'state-of-the-art' direct push based profiling tool data and discuss the benefit of additional data. The developed routine is capable of transferring the provided information obtained as colorimetric data into interpretable color surrogates. Soil color data proved to correlate with small-scale lithological/chemical changes (e.g., grain size, oxidative and reductive conditions), especially when combined with additional direct push vertical high resolution data (e.g., cone penetration testing and soil sampling). Thus, the technique allows enhanced profiling by means of providing another reproducible high-resolution parameter for analysis subsurface conditions. This opens potential new areas of application and new outputs for such data in site investigation. It is our intention to improve color measurements by means method of application and data interpretation, useful to characterize vadose layer/soil/sediment characteristics.

Interpreting drinking water quality in the distribution system using Dempster-Shafer theory of evidence.

PubMed

Sadiq, Rehan; Rodriguez, Manuel J

2005-04-01

Interpreting water quality data routinely generated for control and monitoring purposes in water distribution systems is a complicated task for utility managers. In fact, data for diverse water quality indicators (physico-chemical and microbiological) are generated at different times and at different locations in the distribution system. To simplify and improve the understanding and the interpretation of water quality, methodologies for aggregation and fusion of data must be developed. In this paper, the Dempster-Shafer theory also called theory of evidence is introduced as a potential methodology for interpreting water quality data. The conceptual basis of this methodology and the process for its implementation are presented by two applications. The first application deals with the interpretation of spatial water quality data fusion, while the second application deals with the development of water quality index based on key monitored indicators. Based on the obtained results, the authors discuss the potential contribution of theory of evidence as a decision-making tool for water quality management.

Discussing Laddering Application by the Means-End Chain Theory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Veludo-de-Oliveira, Tania Modesto; Ikeda, Ana Akemi; Campomar, Marcos Cortez

2006-01-01

This article aims at analyzing laddering as a technique of qualitative research, emphasizing the procedures for data collection, analysis and interpretation, and its main limitations as well. "Laddering refers to an in-depth, one-on-one interviewing technique used to develop an understanding of how consumers translate the attributes of products…

Determination of the Conservation Time of Periodicals for Optimal Shelf Maintenance of a Library.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miyamoto, Sadaaki; Nakayama, Kazuhiko

1981-01-01

Presents a method based on a constrained optimization technique that determines the time of removal of scientific periodicals from the shelf of a library. A geometrical interpretation of the theoretical result is given, and a numerical example illustrates how the technique is applicable to real bibliographic data. (FM)

Using Kitchen Appliance Analogies to Improve Students' Reasoning about Neurological Results

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vishton, Peter M.

2005-01-01

This article describes and evaluates a new technique for teaching students to interpret studies of patients with brain injuries. This technique asks students to consider how knives and blenders lose specific functionality when they are damaged. This approach better prepares students to make proper inferences from behavioral deficits observed after…

Measurement Techniques for Transmit Source Clock Jitter for Weak Serial RF Links

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lansdowne, Chatwin A.; Schlesinger, Adam M.

2010-01-01

Techniques for filtering clock jitter measurements are developed, in the context of controlling data modulation jitter on an RF carrier to accommodate low signal-to-noise ratio thresholds of high-performance error correction codes. Measurement artifacts from sampling are considered, and a tutorial on interpretation of direct readings is included.

Using Notable Children's Literature and Questioning Techniques to Enhance Comprehension.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Poole, Gary; Poole, Scott

Intended for language arts teachers of the upper elementary grades, this guide suggests vocabulary and discussion questions for teaching novels. The questions are on an inferential level of interpretation, rather than literal, and address such topics as style, technique, and plot development. Novels for which questions are provided are: (1)…

Bridging the Gap between Basic and Clinical Sciences: A Description of a Radiological Anatomy Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Torres, Anna; Staskiewicz, Grzegorz J.; Lisiecka, Justyna; Pietrzyk, Lukasz; Czekajlo, Michael; Arancibia, Carlos U.; Maciejewski, Ryszard; Torres, Kamil

2016-01-01

A wide variety of medical imaging techniques pervade modern medicine, and the changing portability and performance of tools like ultrasound imaging have brought these medical imaging techniques into the everyday practice of many specialties outside of radiology. However, proper interpretation of ultrasonographic and computed tomographic images…

Science Theater as an Interpretive Technique in a Science Museum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Black, Dana Riley; Goldowsky, Alexander

This paper investigates high school students' reactions to the science theater play "Mapping the Soul," which was developed by the Museum of Science in Boston, Massachusetts. Science theater is both an educational technique and a type of museum theater. This study explores these questions: (1) Do students differentiate learning science from…

DI: An interactive debugging interpreter for applicative languages

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

Skedzielewski, S.K.; Yates, R.K.; Oldehoeft, R.R.

1987-03-12

The DI interpreter is both a debugger and interpreter of SISLAL programs. Its use as a program interpreter is only a small part of its role; it is designed to be a tool for studying compilation techniques for applicative languages. DI interprets dataflow graphs expressed in the IF1 and IF2 languages, and is heavily instrumented to report the activity of dynamic storage activity, reference counting, copying and updating of structured data values. It also aids the SISAL language evaluation by providing an interim execution vehicle for SISAL programs. DI provides determinate, sequential interpretation of graph nodes for sequential and parallelmore » operations in a canonical order. As a debugging aid, DI allows tracing, breakpointing, and interactive display of program data values. DI handles creation of SISAL and IF1 error values for each data type and propagates them according to a well-defined algebra. We have begun to implement IF1 optimizers and have measured the improvements with DI.« less

ERS-2 SAR and IRS-1C LISS III data fusion: A PCA approach to improve remote sensing based geological interpretation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pal, S. K.; Majumdar, T. J.; Bhattacharya, Amit K.

Fusion of optical and synthetic aperture radar data has been attempted in the present study for mapping of various lithologic units over a part of the Singhbhum Shear Zone (SSZ) and its surroundings. ERS-2 SAR data over the study area has been enhanced using Fast Fourier Transformation (FFT) based filtering approach, and also using Frost filtering technique. Both the enhanced SAR imagery have been then separately fused with histogram equalized IRS-1C LISS III image using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) technique. Later, Feature-oriented Principal Components Selection (FPCS) technique has been applied to generate False Color Composite (FCC) images, from which corresponding geological maps have been prepared. Finally, GIS techniques have been successfully used for change detection analysis in the lithological interpretation between the published geological map and the fusion based geological maps. In general, there is good agreement between these maps over a large portion of the study area. Based on the change detection studies, few areas could be identified which need attention for further detailed ground-based geological studies.

Improved Pseudo-section Representation for CSAMT Data in Geothermal Exploration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grandis, Hendra; Sumintadireja, Prihadi

2017-04-01

Controlled-Source Audio-frequency Magnetotellurics (CSAMT) is a frequency domain sounding technique employing typically a grounded electric dipole as the primary electromagnetic (EM) source to infer the subsurface resistivity distribution. The use of an artificial source provides coherent signals with higher signal-to-noise ratio and overcomes the problems with randomness and fluctuation of the natural EM fields used in MT. However, being an extension of MT, the CSAMT data still uses apparent resistivity and phase for data representation. The finite transmitter-receiver distance in CSAMT leads to a somewhat “distorted” response of the subsurface compared to MT data. We propose a simple technique to present CSAMT data as an apparent resistivity pseudo-section with more meaningful information for qualitative interpretation. Tests with synthetic and field CSAMT data showed that the simple technique is valid only for sounding curves exhibiting a transition from high - low - high resistivity (i.e. H-type) prevailing in data from a geothermal prospect. For quantitative interpretation, we recommend the use of the full-solution of CSAMT modelling since our technique is not valid for more general cases.

Application of multivariate statistical techniques in microbial ecology.

PubMed

Paliy, O; Shankar, V

2016-03-01

Recent advances in high-throughput methods of molecular analyses have led to an explosion of studies generating large-scale ecological data sets. In particular, noticeable effect has been attained in the field of microbial ecology, where new experimental approaches provided in-depth assessments of the composition, functions and dynamic changes of complex microbial communities. Because even a single high-throughput experiment produces large amount of data, powerful statistical techniques of multivariate analysis are well suited to analyse and interpret these data sets. Many different multivariate techniques are available, and often it is not clear which method should be applied to a particular data set. In this review, we describe and compare the most widely used multivariate statistical techniques including exploratory, interpretive and discriminatory procedures. We consider several important limitations and assumptions of these methods, and we present examples of how these approaches have been utilized in recent studies to provide insight into the ecology of the microbial world. Finally, we offer suggestions for the selection of appropriate methods based on the research question and data set structure. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Myth of the Master Detective: Reliability of Interpretations for Kaufman's "Intelligent Testing" Approach to the WISC-III.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Macmann, Gregg M.; Barnett, David W.

1997-01-01

Used computer simulation to examine the reliability of interpretations for Kaufman's "intelligent testing" approach to the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (3rd ed.) (WISC-III). Findings indicate that factor index-score differences and other measures could not be interpreted with confidence. Argues that limitations of IQ testing…

Effects of Tasks on BOLD Signal Responses to Sentence Contrasts: Review and Commentary

PubMed Central

Caplan, David; Gow, David

2010-01-01

Functional neuroimaging studies of syntactic processing have been interpreted as identifying the neural locations of parsing and interpretive operations. However, current behavioral studies of sentence processing indicate that many operations occur simultaneously with parsing and interpretation. In this review, we point to issues that arise in discriminating the effects of these concurrent processes from those of the parser/interpreter in neural measures and to approaches that may help resolve them. PMID:20932562

Assessment of therapists' and patients' personality: relationship to therapeutic technique and outcome in brief dynamic psychotherapy.

PubMed

Hersoug, Anne Grete

2004-12-01

My first focus of this study was to explore therapists' personal characteristics as predictors of the proportion of interpretation in brief dynamic psychotherapy (N=39; maximum 40 sessions). In this study, I used data from the Norwegian Multicenter Study on Process and Outcome of Psychotherapy (1995). The main finding was that therapists who had experienced good parental care gave less interpretation (28% variance was accounted for). Therapists who had more negative introjects used a higher proportion of interpretation (16% variance was accounted for). Patients' pretreatment characteristics were not predictive of therapists' use of interpretation. The second focus was to investigate the impact of therapists' personality and the proportion of interpretation on the development of patients' maladaptive defensive functioning over the course of therapy. Better parental care and less negative introjects in therapists were associated with a positive influence and accounted for 5% variance in the reduction of patients' maladaptive defense.

What if ? On alternative conceptual models and the problem of their implementation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neuberg, Jurgen

2015-04-01

Seismic and other monitoring techniques rely on a set of conceptual models on the base of which data sets can be interpreted. In order to do this on an operational level in volcano observatories these models need to be tested and ready for an interpretation in a timely manner. Once established, scientists in charge advising stakeholders and decision makers often stick firmly to these models to avoid confusion by giving alternative versions of interpretations to non-experts. This talk gives an overview of widely accepted conceptual models to interpret seismic and deformation data, and highlights in a few case studies some of the arising problems. Aspects covered include knowledge transfer between research institutions and observatories, data sharing, the problem of up-taking advice, and some hidden problems which turn out to be much more critical in assessing volcanic hazard than the actual data interpretation.

From Airborne EM to Geology, some examples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gunnink, Jan

2014-05-01

Introduction Airborne Electro Magnetics (AEM) provide a model of the 3-dimensional distribution of resistivity of the subsurface. These resistivity models were used for delineating geological structures (e.g. Buried Valleys and salt domes) and for geohydrological modeling of aquifers (sandy sediments) and aquitards (clayey sediments). Most of the interpretation of the AEM has been carried out manually, by interpretation of 2 and 3-dimensional resistivity models into geological units by a skilled geologists / geophysicist. The manual interpretation is tiresome, takes a long time and is prone to subjective choices of the interpreter. Therefore, semi-automatic interpretation of AEM resistivity models into geological units is a recent research topic. Two examples are presented that show how resistivity, as obtained from AEM, can be "converted" to useful geological / geohydrolocal models. Statistical relation between borehole data and resistivity In the northeastern part of the Netherlands, the 3D distribution of clay deposits - formed in a glacio-lacustrine environment with buried glacial valleys - was modelled. Boreholes with description of lithology, were linked to AEM resistivity. First, 1D AEM resistivity models from each individual sounding were interpolated to cover the entire study area, resulting in a 3-dimensional model of resistivity. For each interval of clay and sand in the boreholes, the corresponding resistivity was extracted from the 3D resistivity model. Linear regression was used to link the clay and non-clay proportion in each borehole interval to the Ln(resistivity). This regression is then used to "convert" the 3D resistivity model into proportion of clay for the entire study area. This so-called "soft information" is combined with the "hard data" (boreholes) to model the proportion of clay for the entire study area using geostatistical simulation techniques (Sequential Indicator Simulation with collocated co-kriging). 100 realizations of the 3-dimensional distribution of clay and sand were calculated giving an appreciation of the variability of the 3-dimensional distribution of clay and sand. Each realization was input into a groundwatermodel to assess the protection the of the clay against pollution from the surface. Artificial Neural Networks AEM resistivity models in an area in Northern part of the Netherlands were interpreted by Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to obtain a 3-dimensional model of a glacial till deposit that is important in geohydrological modeling. The groundwater in the study area was brackish to saline, causing the AEM resistivity model to be dominated by the low resistivity of the groundwater. After conducting Electrical Cone Penetration Tests (ECPTs) it became clear that the glacial till showed a distinct, non-linear, pattern of resistivity, that was discriminating it from the surrounding sediments. The patterns, found in the ECPTs were used to train an ANN and was consequently applied to the resistivity model that was derived from the AEM. The result was a 3-dimensional model of the probability of having the glacial till, which was checked against boreholes and proved to be quite reasonable. Conclusion Resistivity derived from AEM can be linked to geological features in a number of ways. Besides manual interpretation, statistical techniques are used, either in the form of regression or by means of Neural Networks, to extract geological and geohydrological meaningful interpretations from the resistivity model.

Using a Problem Solving-Cooperative Learning Approach to Improve Students' Skills for Interpreting [Superscript 1]H NMR Spectra of Unknown Compounds in an Organic Spectroscopy Course

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Angawi, Rihab F.

2014-01-01

To address third- and fourth-year chemistry students' difficulties with the challenge of interpreting [superscript 1]H NMR spectra, a problem solving-cooperative learning technique was incorporated in a Spectra of Organic Compounds course. Using this approach helped students deepen their understanding of the basics of [superscript 1]H NMR…

Use of Landsat data in soil and agricultural land use studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Westin, F. C.; Brandner, T. M.

1980-01-01

This paper describes how the synoptic, multispectral, and temporal characteristics of Landsat can be used to locate Soil Association boundaries. Then, using these techniques we describe how a low intensity soil survey was conducted and how some interpretive maps were developed from this. Finally, we describe how soil suitability and land use interpretations were made to aid in defining Agrophysical units used in crop inventories.

Paleodictyon nodosum: A living fossil on the deep-sea floor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rona, Peter A.; Seilacher, Adolf; de Vargas, Colomban; Gooday, Andrew J.; Bernhard, Joan M.; Bowser, Sam; Vetriani, Costantino; Wirsen, Carl O.; Mullineaux, Lauren; Sherrell, Robert; Frederick Grassle, J.; Low, Stephen; Lutz, Richard A.

2009-09-01

We report new in situ observations and laboratory studies of specimens of a small (diameter 2.4-7.5 cm) strikingly hexagonal form originally described from sedimented steps in a wall of the axial valley of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (water depth 3430-3575 m) near 26°N, 45°W that appears to be identical to the iconic form Paleodictyon nodosum described as a trace fossil from Eocene flysch deposits at sites in Europe and Wales. Our findings follow: The form is apparently agglutinated in sea floor sediment (a veneer of calcareous lutite over red metalliferous sediment) and consists of three equidistant rows of tiny holes (diameter ˜1 mm) that intersect at an angle of 120° and continuously connect through vertical shafts (length 2-3 mm) with an underlying horizontal network of tubes or tunnels identical with the fossil form. The number of rows of holes and spacing of rows increase with overall diameter of the form indicative of organic growth. The form is shaped like a shield surrounded by a lip and moat with surface relief (˜0.5 cm) that is absent in the fossil form. The surface relief exposes the underlying red sediment and may have been produced either by excavation (constructional origin) or by infaunal growth (body form). Protoplasm is absent in recovered specimens, as indicated by negative results of staining techniques, explained by either initial absence or loss. Genetic sequencing of material from the form identified different foraminifera that had settled on the pattern of holes which acts as a baffle to trap organic matter. Models in flume tanks show that the shield-like form deflects flow of ocean currents into a self-ventilating structure capable of aerating and of circulating organic particles through the tubes or tunnels. Microbial counting techniques indicated background abundances within and outside the form. We come to two alternative interpretations of the findings resolvable with further studies: The modern P. nodosum is a burrow consistent with interpretation of the ancient form as a trace fossil. The modern P. nodosum is a compressed form of a hexactinellid sponge adapted to a sedimentary substrate, which means that the ancient form is a body fossil with possible affinity to the Ediacara fauna.

Behind the mask of method: political orientation and constitutional interpretive preferences.

PubMed

Furgeson, Joshua R; Babcock, Linda; Shane, Peter M

2008-12-01

Debate about how to best interpret the Constitution often revolves around interpretive methodologies (e.g., originalism or expansive interpretation). This article examines whether individuals' political orientation influences the methodologies they prefer to use to interpret the Constitution. We study this proposed relationship using a survey of federal law clerks and an experimental study with college students. The survey results indicate that, compared to conservatives, liberal clerks prefer the current meaning or the most plausible appealing meaning of the constitutional text, while conservatives prefer the original meaning of the text. Liberal clerks also prefer to interpret the Constitution much more expansively. The second study manipulates the policy implications of expansive interpretation and finds this manipulation differentially affects liberals' and conservatives' expansiveness preferences.

The dendritic spine story: an intriguing process of discovery

PubMed Central

DeFelipe, Javier

2015-01-01

Dendritic spines are key components of a variety of microcircuits and they represent the majority of postsynaptic targets of glutamatergic axon terminals in the brain. The present article will focus on the discovery of dendritic spines, which was possible thanks to the application of the Golgi technique to the study of the nervous system, and will also explore the early interpretation of these elements. This discovery represents an interesting chapter in the history of neuroscience as it shows us that progress in the study of the structure of the nervous system is based not only on the emergence of new techniques but also on our ability to exploit the methods already available and correctly interpret their microscopic images. PMID:25798090

Crop identification technology assessment for remote sensing (CITARS). Volume 10: Interpretation of results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bizzell, R. M.; Feiveson, A. H.; Hall, F. G.; Bauer, M. E.; Davis, B. J.; Malila, W. A.; Rice, D. P.

1975-01-01

The CITARS was an experiment designed to quantitatively evaluate crop identification performance for corn and soybeans in various environments using a well-defined set of automatic data processing (ADP) techniques. Each technique was applied to data acquired to recognize and estimate proportions of corn and soybeans. The CITARS documentation summarizes, interprets, and discusses the crop identification performances obtained using (1) different ADP procedures; (2) a linear versus a quadratic classifier; (3) prior probability information derived from historic data; (4) local versus nonlocal recognition training statistics and the associated use of preprocessing; (5) multitemporal data; (6) classification bias and mixed pixels in proportion estimation; and (7) data with differnt site characteristics, including crop, soil, atmospheric effects, and stages of crop maturity.

[The future of forensic DNA analysis for criminal justice].

PubMed

Laurent, François-Xavier; Vibrac, Geoffrey; Rubio, Aurélien; Thévenot, Marie-Thérèse; Pène, Laurent

2017-11-01

In the criminal framework, the analysis of approximately 20 DNA microsatellites enables the establishment of a genetic profile with a high statistical power of discrimination. This technique gives us the possibility to establish or exclude a match between a biological trace detected at a crime scene and a suspect whose DNA was collected via an oral swab. However, conventional techniques do tend to complexify the interpretation of complex DNA samples, such as degraded DNA and mixture DNA. The aim of this review is to highlight the powerness of new forensic DNA methods (including high-throughput sequencing or single-cell sequencing) to facilitate the interpretation of the expert with full compliance with existing french legislation. © 2017 médecine/sciences – Inserm.

Development of data processing, interpretation and analysis system for the remote sensing of trace atmospheric gas species

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Casas, Joseph C.; Saylor, Mary S.; Kindle, Earl C.

1987-01-01

The major emphasis is on the advancement of remote sensing technology. In particular, the gas filter correlation radiometer (GFCR) technique was applied to the measurement of trace gas species, such as carbon monoxide (CO), from airborne and Earth orbiting platforms. Through a series of low altitude aircraft flights, high altitude aircraft flights, and orbiting space platform flights, data were collected and analyzed, culminating in the first global map of carbon monoxide concentration in the middle troposphere and stratosphere. The four major areas of this remote sensing program, known as the Measurement of Air Pollution from Satellites (MAPS) experiment, are: (1) data acquisition, (2) data processing, analysis, and interpretation algorithms, (3) data display techniques, and (4) information processing.

Enhancing interpretability of automatically extracted machine learning features: application to a RBM-Random Forest system on brain lesion segmentation.

PubMed

Pereira, Sérgio; Meier, Raphael; McKinley, Richard; Wiest, Roland; Alves, Victor; Silva, Carlos A; Reyes, Mauricio

2018-02-01

Machine learning systems are achieving better performances at the cost of becoming increasingly complex. However, because of that, they become less interpretable, which may cause some distrust by the end-user of the system. This is especially important as these systems are pervasively being introduced to critical domains, such as the medical field. Representation Learning techniques are general methods for automatic feature computation. Nevertheless, these techniques are regarded as uninterpretable "black boxes". In this paper, we propose a methodology to enhance the interpretability of automatically extracted machine learning features. The proposed system is composed of a Restricted Boltzmann Machine for unsupervised feature learning, and a Random Forest classifier, which are combined to jointly consider existing correlations between imaging data, features, and target variables. We define two levels of interpretation: global and local. The former is devoted to understanding if the system learned the relevant relations in the data correctly, while the later is focused on predictions performed on a voxel- and patient-level. In addition, we propose a novel feature importance strategy that considers both imaging data and target variables, and we demonstrate the ability of the approach to leverage the interpretability of the obtained representation for the task at hand. We evaluated the proposed methodology in brain tumor segmentation and penumbra estimation in ischemic stroke lesions. We show the ability of the proposed methodology to unveil information regarding relationships between imaging modalities and extracted features and their usefulness for the task at hand. In both clinical scenarios, we demonstrate that the proposed methodology enhances the interpretability of automatically learned features, highlighting specific learning patterns that resemble how an expert extracts relevant data from medical images. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Computer aided fringe pattern analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sciammarella, Cesar A.

The paper reviews the basic laws of fringe pattern interpretation. The different techniques that are currently utilized are presented using a common frame of reference stressing the fact that these techniques are different variations of the same basic principle. Digital and analog techniques are discussed. Currently available hardware is presented and the relationships between hardware and the operations of pattern fringe processing are pointed out. Examples are given to illustrate the ideas discussed in the paper.

Weighted Parzen Windows for Pattern Classification

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-05-01

Nearest-Neighbor Rule The k-Nearest-Neighbor ( kNN ) technique is nonparametric, assuming nothing about the distribution of the data. Stated succinctly...probabilities P(wj I x) from samples." Raudys and Jain [20:255] advance this interpretation by pointing out that the kNN technique can be viewed as the...34Parzen window classifier with a hyper- rectangular window function." As with the Parzen-window technique, the kNN classifier is more accurate as the

Describing the epidemiology of rheumatic diseases: methodological aspects.

PubMed

Guillemin, Francis

2012-03-01

Producing descriptive epidemiology data is essential to understand the burden of rheumatic diseases (prevalence) and their dynamic in the population (incidence). No matter how simple such indicators may look, the correct collection of data and the appropriate interpretation of the results face several challenges: distinguishing indicators, facing the costs of obtaining data, using appropriate definition, identifying optimal sources of data, choosing among many survey methods, dealing with estimates precision, and standardizing results. This study describes the underlying methodological difficulties to be overcome so as to make descriptive indicators reliable and interpretable.

Students’ Covariational Reasoning in Solving Integrals’ Problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harini, N. V.; Fuad, Y.; Ekawati, R.

2018-01-01

Covariational reasoning plays an important role to indicate quantities vary in learning calculus. This study investigates students’ covariational reasoning during their studies concerning two covarying quantities in integral problem. Six undergraduate students were chosen to solve problems that involved interpreting and representing how quantities change in tandem. Interviews were conducted to reveal the students’ reasoning while solving covariational problems. The result emphasizes that undergraduate students were able to construct the relation of dependent variables that changes in tandem with the independent variable. However, students faced difficulty in forming images of continuously changing rates and could not accurately apply the concept of integrals. These findings suggest that learning calculus should be increased emphasis on coordinating images of two quantities changing in tandem about instantaneously rate of change and to promote conceptual knowledge in integral techniques.

Compositional characteristics of some Apollo 14 clastic materials.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lindstrom, M. M.; Duncan, A. R.; Fruchter, J. S.; Mckay, S. M.; Stoeser, J. W.; Goles, G. G.; Lindstrom, D. J.

1972-01-01

Eighty-two subsamples of Apollo 14 materials have been analyzed by instrumental neutron activation analysis techniques for as many as 25 elements. In many cases, it was necessary to develop new procedures to allow analyses of small specimens. Compositional relationships among Apollo 14 materials indicate that there are small but systematic differences between regolith from the valley terrain and that from Cone Crater ejecta. Fragments from 1-2 mm size fractions of regolith samples may be divided into compositional classes, and the 'soil breccias' among them are very similar to valley soils. Multicomponent linear mixing models have been used as interpretive tools in dealing with data on regolith fractions and subsamples from breccia 14321. These mixing models show systematic compositional variations with inferred age for Apollo 14 clastic materials.

Fibre-matrix bond strength studies of glass, ceramic, and metal matrix composites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grande, D. H.; Mandell, J. F.; Hong, K. C. C.

1988-01-01

An indentation test technique for compressively loading the ends of individual fibers to produce debonding has been applied to metal, glass, and glass-ceramic matrix composites; bond strength values at debond initiation are calculated using a finite-element model. Results are correlated with composite longitudinal and interlaminar shear behavior for carbon and Nicalon fiber-reinforced glasses and glass-ceramics including the effects of matrix modifications, processing conditions, and high-temperature oxidation embrittlement. The data indicate that significant bonding to improve off-axis and shear properties can be tolerated before the longitudinal behavior becomes brittle. Residual stress and other mechanical bonding effects are important, but improved analyses and multiaxial interfacial failure criteria are needed to adequately interpret bond strength data in terms of composite performance.

Evaluation of photographic enhancements of Landsat imagery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dean, K. G.; Spencer, J. P.

1982-01-01

The photographic processing of color Landsat imagery was evaluated to determine the optimal enhancement techniques. Twenty-six images were examined to explore the effects of gamma values upon image interpretation in a subarctic environment. Gamma values were varied on the images of bands 4 through 7 prior to the creation of the color composites. This yielded color-composited images with various color balances. These images were evaluated in terms of visible geological features (drainage, lineaments, landforms, etc.) and landcover features (exposed rock and ground, coniferous forest, etc.). The results indicate that the most informative images are created by using gamma values of 2.0 for band 4, 1.0 for band 5, and 2.0 for band 6 or 7. Other photographic enhancements tend to enhance some features at the expense of others.

Processes and subdivisions in diogenites, a multivariate statistical analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harriott, T. A.; Hewins, R. H.

1984-01-01

Multivariate statistical techniques used on diogenite orthopyroxene analyses show the relationships that occur within diogenites and the two orthopyroxenite components (class I and II) in the polymict diogenite Garland. Cluster analysis shows that only Peckelsheim is similar to Garland class I (Fe-rich) and the other diogenites resemble Garland class II. The unique diogenite Y 75032 may be related to type I by fractionation. Factor analysis confirms the subdivision and shows that Fe does not correlate with the weakly incompatible elements across the entire pyroxene composition range, indicating that igneous fractionation is not the process controlling total diogenite composition variation. The occurrence of two groups of diogenites is interpreted as the result of sampling or mixing of two main sequences of orthopyroxene cumulates with slightly different compositions.

Characterizing Geological Facies using Seismic Waveform Classification in Sarawak Basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zahraa, Afiqah; Zailani, Ahmad; Prasad Ghosh, Deva

2017-10-01

Numerous effort have been made to build relationship between geology and geophysics using different techniques throughout the years. The integration of these two most important data in oil and gas industry can be used to reduce uncertainty in exploration and production especially for reservoir productivity enhancement and stratigraphic identification. This paper is focusing on seismic waveform classification to different classes using neural network and to link them according to the geological facies which are established using the knowledge on lithology and log motif of well data. Seismic inversion is used as the input for the neural network to act as the direct lithology indicator reducing dependency on well calibration. The interpretation of seismic facies classification map provides a better understanding towards the lithology distribution, depositional environment and help to identify significant reservoir rock

System and Method for Outlier Detection via Estimating Clusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Iverson, David J. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

An efficient method and system for real-time or offline analysis of multivariate sensor data for use in anomaly detection, fault detection, and system health monitoring is provided. Models automatically derived from training data, typically nominal system data acquired from sensors in normally operating conditions or from detailed simulations, are used to identify unusual, out of family data samples (outliers) that indicate possible system failure or degradation. Outliers are determined through analyzing a degree of deviation of current system behavior from the models formed from the nominal system data. The deviation of current system behavior is presented as an easy to interpret numerical score along with a measure of the relative contribution of each system parameter to any off-nominal deviation. The techniques described herein may also be used to "clean" the training data.

Compiling and editing agricultural strata boundaries with remotely sensed imagery and map attribute data using graphics workstations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheng, Thomas D.; Angelici, Gary L.; Slye, Robert E.; Ma, Matt

1991-01-01

The USDA presently uses labor-intensive photographic interpretation procedures to delineate large geographical areas into manageable size sampling units for the estimation of domestic crop and livestock production. Computer software to automate the boundary delineation procedure, called the computer-assisted stratification and sampling (CASS) system, was developed using a Hewlett Packard color-graphics workstation. The CASS procedures display Thematic Mapper (TM) satellite digital imagery on a graphics display workstation as the backdrop for the onscreen delineation of sampling units. USGS Digital Line Graph (DLG) data for roads and waterways are displayed over the TM imagery to aid in identifying potential sample unit boundaries. Initial analysis conducted with three Missouri counties indicated that CASS was six times faster than the manual techniques in delineating sampling units.

Analytical description of the modern steam automobile

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Peoples, J. A.

1974-01-01

The sensitivity of operating conditions upon performance of the modern steam automobile is discussed. The word modern has been used in the title to indicate that emphasis is upon miles per gallon rather than theoretical thermal efficiency. This has been accomplished by combining classical power analysis with the ideal Pressure-Volume diagram. Several parameters are derived which characterize performance capability of the modern steam car. The report illustrates that performance is dictated by the characteristics of the working medium, and the supply temperature. Performance is nearly independent of pressures above 800 psia. Analysis techniques were developed specifically for reciprocating steam engines suitable for automotive application. Specific performance charts have been constructed on the basis of water as a working medium. The conclusions and data interpretation are therefore limited within this scope.

Surface shear inviscidity of soluble surfactants

PubMed Central

Zell, Zachary A.; Nowbahar, Arash; Mansard, Vincent; Leal, L. Gary; Deshmukh, Suraj S.; Mecca, Jodi M.; Tucker, Christopher J.; Squires, Todd M.

2014-01-01

Foam and emulsion stability has long been believed to correlate with the surface shear viscosity of the surfactant used to stabilize them. Many subtleties arise in interpreting surface shear viscosity measurements, however, and correlations do not necessarily indicate causation. Using a sensitive technique designed to excite purely surface shear deformations, we make the most sensitive and precise measurements to date of the surface shear viscosity of a variety of soluble surfactants, focusing on SDS in particular. Our measurements reveal the surface shear viscosity of SDS to be below the sensitivity limit of our technique, giving an upper bound of order 0.01 μN·s/m. This conflicts directly with almost all previous studies, which reported values up to 103–104 times higher. Multiple control and complementary measurements confirm this result, including direct visualization of monolayer deformation, for SDS and a wide variety of soluble polymeric, ionic, and nonionic surfactants of high- and low-foaming character. No soluble, small-molecule surfactant was found to have a measurable surface shear viscosity, which seriously undermines most support for any correlation between foam stability and surface shear rheology of soluble surfactants. PMID:24563383

Investigating the running abilities of Tyrannosaurus rex using stress-constrained multibody dynamic analysis

PubMed Central

Pond, Stuart B.; Brassey, Charlotte A.; Manning, Philip L.; Bates, Karl T.

2017-01-01

The running ability of Tyrannosaurus rex has been intensively studied due to its relevance to interpretations of feeding behaviour and the biomechanics of scaling in giant predatory dinosaurs. Different studies using differing methodologies have produced a very wide range of top speed estimates and there is therefore a need to develop techniques that can improve these predictions. Here we present a new approach that combines two separate biomechanical techniques (multibody dynamic analysis and skeletal stress analysis) to demonstrate that true running gaits would probably lead to unacceptably high skeletal loads in T. rex. Combining these two approaches reduces the high-level of uncertainty in previous predictions associated with unknown soft tissue parameters in dinosaurs, and demonstrates that the relatively long limb segments of T. rex—long argued to indicate competent running ability—would actually have mechanically limited this species to walking gaits. Being limited to walking speeds contradicts arguments of high-speed pursuit predation for the largest bipedal dinosaurs like T. rex, and demonstrates the power of multiphysics approaches for locomotor reconstructions of extinct animals. PMID:28740745

Investigating the running abilities of Tyrannosaurus rex using stress-constrained multibody dynamic analysis.

PubMed

Sellers, William I; Pond, Stuart B; Brassey, Charlotte A; Manning, Philip L; Bates, Karl T

2017-01-01

The running ability of Tyrannosaurus rex has been intensively studied due to its relevance to interpretations of feeding behaviour and the biomechanics of scaling in giant predatory dinosaurs. Different studies using differing methodologies have produced a very wide range of top speed estimates and there is therefore a need to develop techniques that can improve these predictions. Here we present a new approach that combines two separate biomechanical techniques (multibody dynamic analysis and skeletal stress analysis) to demonstrate that true running gaits would probably lead to unacceptably high skeletal loads in T. rex . Combining these two approaches reduces the high-level of uncertainty in previous predictions associated with unknown soft tissue parameters in dinosaurs, and demonstrates that the relatively long limb segments of T. rex -long argued to indicate competent running ability-would actually have mechanically limited this species to walking gaits. Being limited to walking speeds contradicts arguments of high-speed pursuit predation for the largest bipedal dinosaurs like T. rex , and demonstrates the power of multiphysics approaches for locomotor reconstructions of extinct animals.

The role of interpreters in inclusive classrooms.

PubMed

Antia, S D; Kreimeyer, K H

2001-10-01

The roles of interpreters in an inclusive classroom were examined through a qualitative, 3-year case study of three interpreters in an inclusive school. Interviews were conducted with interpreters, classroom teachers, special education teachers, and administrators. The interview data were supplemented with observations and field notes. Results indicate that in addition to sign interpreting between American Sign Language and speech, the interpreters clarified teacher directions, facilitated peer interaction, tutored the deaf children, and kept the teachers and special educators informed of the deaf children's progress. The interpreter/aides and the classroom teachers preferred this full-participant interpreter role, while the special educators and administrators preferred a translator role. Classroom teachers were more comfortable with full-time interpreters who knew the classroom routine, while the special educators and administrators feared that full-time interpreters fostered child and teacher dependence. These issues are discussed in terms of congruence with the Registry of Interpreters code of ethics and how integration of young children might be best facilitated.

Practical exergy analysis of centrifugal compressor performance using ASME-PTC-10 data

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

Carranti, F.J.

1997-07-01

It has been shown that measures of performance currently in use for industrial and process compressors do not give a true measure of energy utilization, and that the required assumptions of isentropic or adiabatic behavior are now always valid. A better indication of machine or process performance can be achieved using exergetic (second law) efficiencies and by employing the second law of thermodynamics to indicate the nature of irreversibilities and entropy generation in the compression process. In this type of analysis, performance is related to an environmental equilibrium condition, or dead state. Often, the differences between avoidable and unavoidable irreversibilitiesmore » ca be interpreted from these results. A general overview of the techniques involved in exergy analysis as applied to compressors and blowers is presented. A practical method to allow the calculation of exergetic efficiencies by manufacturers and end users is demonstrated using data from ASME Power Test Code input. These data are often readily available from compressor manufacturers for both design and off-design conditions, or can sometimes be obtained from field measurements. The calculations involved are simple and straightforward, and can demonstrate the energy usage situation for a variety of conditions. Here off-design is taken to mean at different rates of flow, as well as at different environmental states. The techniques presented are also applicable to many other equipment and process types.« less

Analytical methods for the measurement of polymerization kinetics and stresses of dental resin-based composites: A review

PubMed Central

Ghavami-Lahiji, Mehrsima; Hooshmand, Tabassom

2017-01-01

Resin-based composites are commonly used restorative materials in dentistry. Such tooth-colored restorations can adhere to the dental tissues. One drawback is that the polymerization shrinkage and induced stresses during the curing procedure is an inherent property of resin composite materials that might impair their performance. This review focuses on the significant developments of laboratory tools in the measurement of polymerization shrinkage and stresses of dental resin-based materials during polymerization. An electronic search of publications from January 1977 to July 2016 was made using ScienceDirect, PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar databases. The search included only English-language articles. Only studies that performed laboratory methods to evaluate the amount of the polymerization shrinkage and/or stresses of dental resin-based materials during polymerization were selected. The results indicated that various techniques have been introduced with different mechanical/physical bases. Besides, there are factors that may contribute the differences between the various methods in measuring the amount of shrinkages and stresses of resin composites. The search for an ideal and standard apparatus for measuring shrinkage stress and volumetric polymerization shrinkage of resin-based materials in dentistry is still required. Researchers and clinicians must be aware of differences between analytical methods to make proper interpretation and indications of each technique relevant to a clinical situation. PMID:28928776

Multi-objective evolutionary algorithms for fuzzy classification in survival prediction.

PubMed

Jiménez, Fernando; Sánchez, Gracia; Juárez, José M

2014-03-01

This paper presents a novel rule-based fuzzy classification methodology for survival/mortality prediction in severe burnt patients. Due to the ethical aspects involved in this medical scenario, physicians tend not to accept a computer-based evaluation unless they understand why and how such a recommendation is given. Therefore, any fuzzy classifier model must be both accurate and interpretable. The proposed methodology is a three-step process: (1) multi-objective constrained optimization of a patient's data set, using Pareto-based elitist multi-objective evolutionary algorithms to maximize accuracy and minimize the complexity (number of rules) of classifiers, subject to interpretability constraints; this step produces a set of alternative (Pareto) classifiers; (2) linguistic labeling, which assigns a linguistic label to each fuzzy set of the classifiers; this step is essential to the interpretability of the classifiers; (3) decision making, whereby a classifier is chosen, if it is satisfactory, according to the preferences of the decision maker. If no classifier is satisfactory for the decision maker, the process starts again in step (1) with a different input parameter set. The performance of three multi-objective evolutionary algorithms, niched pre-selection multi-objective algorithm, elitist Pareto-based multi-objective evolutionary algorithm for diversity reinforcement (ENORA) and the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II), was tested using a patient's data set from an intensive care burn unit and a standard machine learning data set from an standard machine learning repository. The results are compared using the hypervolume multi-objective metric. Besides, the results have been compared with other non-evolutionary techniques and validated with a multi-objective cross-validation technique. Our proposal improves the classification rate obtained by other non-evolutionary techniques (decision trees, artificial neural networks, Naive Bayes, and case-based reasoning) obtaining with ENORA a classification rate of 0.9298, specificity of 0.9385, and sensitivity of 0.9364, with 14.2 interpretable fuzzy rules on average. Our proposal improves the accuracy and interpretability of the classifiers, compared with other non-evolutionary techniques. We also conclude that ENORA outperforms niched pre-selection and NSGA-II algorithms. Moreover, given that our multi-objective evolutionary methodology is non-combinational based on real parameter optimization, the time cost is significantly reduced compared with other evolutionary approaches existing in literature based on combinational optimization. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Do Professional Interpreters Improve Clinical Care for Patients with Limited English Proficiency? A Systematic Review of the Literature

PubMed Central

Karliner, Leah S; Jacobs, Elizabeth A; Chen, Alice Hm; Mutha, Sunita

2007-01-01

Objective To determine if professional medical interpreters have a positive impact on clinical care for limited English proficiency (LEP) patients. Data Sources A systematic literature search, limited to the English language, in PubMed and PsycINFO for publications between 1966 and September 2005, and a search of the Cochrane Library. Study Design Any peer-reviewed article which compared at least two language groups, and contained data about professional medical interpreters and addressed communication (errors and comprehension), utilization, clinical outcomes, or satisfaction were included. Of 3,698 references, 28 were found by multiple reviewers to meet inclusion criteria and, of these, 21 assessed professional interpreters separately from ad hoc interpreters. Data were abstracted from each article by two reviewers. Data were collected on the study design, size, comparison groups, analytic technique, interpreter training, and method of determining the participants' need for an interpreter. Each study was evaluated for the effect of interpreter use on four clinical topics that were most likely to either impact or reflect disparities in health and health care. Principal Findings In all four areas examined, use of professional interpreters is associated with improved clinical care more than is use of ad hoc interpreters, and professional interpreters appear to raise the quality of clinical care for LEP patients to approach or equal that for patients without language barriers. Conclusions Published studies report positive benefits of professional interpreters on communication (errors and comprehension), utilization, clinical outcomes and satisfaction with care. PMID:17362215

Unregulated Autonomy: Uncredentialed Educational Interpreters in Rural Schools.

PubMed

Fitzmaurice, Stephen

2017-01-01

Although many rural Deaf and Hard of Hearing students attend public schools most of the day and use the services of educational interpreters to gain access to the school environment, little information exists on what interpreters are doing in rural school systems in the absence of credentialing requirements. The researcher used ethnographic interviews and field observations of three educational interpreters with no certification or professional assessment to explore how uncredentialed interpreters were enacting their role in a rural high school. The findings indicate that uncredentialed interpreters in rural settings perform four major functions during their school day: preparing the environment, staff, and materials; interpreting a variety of content; interacting with numerous stakeholders; and directly instructing Deaf and Hard of Hearing students. Generally, educational interpreters in rural districts operate with unregulated autonomy, a situation that warrants further research and a national standard for all educational interpreters.

Correlation as a Determinant of Configurational Entropy in Supramolecular and Protein Systems

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

For biomolecules in solution, changes in configurational entropy are thought to contribute substantially to the free energies of processes like binding and conformational change. In principle, the configurational entropy can be strongly affected by pairwise and higher-order correlations among conformational degrees of freedom. However, the literature offers mixed perspectives regarding the contributions that changes in correlations make to changes in configurational entropy for such processes. Here we take advantage of powerful techniques for simulation and entropy analysis to carry out rigorous in silico studies of correlation in binding and conformational changes. In particular, we apply information-theoretic expansions of the configurational entropy to well-sampled molecular dynamics simulations of a model host–guest system and the protein bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor. The results bear on the interpretation of NMR data, as they indicate that changes in correlation are important determinants of entropy changes for biologically relevant processes and that changes in correlation may either balance or reinforce changes in first-order entropy. The results also highlight the importance of main-chain torsions as contributors to changes in protein configurational entropy. As simulation techniques grow in power, the mathematical techniques used here will offer new opportunities to answer challenging questions about complex molecular systems. PMID:24702693

Use of cognitive interview techniques in the development of nutrition surveys and interactive nutrition messages for low-income populations.

PubMed

Carbone, Elena T; Campbell, Marci K; Honess-Morreale, Lauren

2002-05-01

The effectiveness of dietary surveys and educational messages is dependent in part on how well the target audience's information processing needs and abilities are addressed. Use of pilot testing is helpful; however, problems with wording and language are often not revealed. Cognitive interview techniques offer 1 approach to assist dietitians in understanding how audiences process information. With this method, respondents are led through a survey or message and asked to paraphrase items; discuss thoughts, feelings, and ideas that come to mind; and suggest alternative wording. As part of a US Department of Agriculture-funded nutrition education project, 23 cognitive interviews were conducted among technical community college students in North Carolina. Interview findings informed the development of tailored computer messages and survey questions. Better understanding of respondents' cognitive processes significantly improved the language and approach used in this intervention. Interview data indicated 4 problem areas: vague or ineffective instructions, confusing questions and response options, variable interpretation of terms, and misinterpretation of dietary recommendations. Interviews also provided insight into the meaning of diet-related stages of change. These findings concur with previous research suggesting that cognitive interview techniques are a valuable tool in the formative evaluation and development of nutrition surveys and materials.

[Potentials in the regionalization of health indicators using small-area estimation methods : Exemplary results based on the 2009, 2010 and 2012 GEDA studies].

PubMed

Kroll, Lars Eric; Schumann, Maria; Müters, Stephan; Lampert, Thomas

2017-12-01

Nationwide health surveys can be used to estimate regional differences in health. Using traditional estimation techniques, the spatial depth for these estimates is limited due to the constrained sample size. So far - without special refreshment samples - results have only been available for larger populated federal states of Germany. An alternative is regression-based small-area estimation techniques. These models can generate smaller-scale data, but are also subject to greater statistical uncertainties because of the model assumptions. In the present article, exemplary regionalized results based on the studies "Gesundheit in Deutschland aktuell" (GEDA studies) 2009, 2010 and 2012, are compared to the self-rated health status of the respondents. The aim of the article is to analyze the range of regional estimates in order to assess the usefulness of the techniques for health reporting more adequately. The results show that the estimated prevalence is relatively stable when using different samples. Important determinants of the variation of the estimates are the achieved sample size on the district level and the type of the district (cities vs. rural regions). Overall, the present study shows that small-area modeling of prevalence is associated with additional uncertainties compared to conventional estimates, which should be taken into account when interpreting the corresponding findings.

Comparison of mass spectrometry-based electronic nose and solid phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry technique to assess infant formula oxidation.

PubMed

Fenaille, François; Visani, Piero; Fumeaux, René; Milo, Christian; Guy, Philippe A

2003-04-23

Two headspace techniques based on mass spectrometry detection (MS), electronic nose, and solid phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC/MS) were evaluated for their ability to differentiate various infant formula powders based on changes of their volatiles upon storage. The electronic nose gave unresolved MS fingerprints of the samples gas phases that were further submitted to principal component analysis (PCA). Such direct MS recording combined to multivariate treatment enabled a rapid differentiation of the infant formulas over a 4 week storage test. Although MS-based electronic nose advantages are its easy-to-use aspect and its meaningful data interpretation obtained with a high throughput (100 samples per 24 h), its greatest disadvantage is that the present compounds could not be identified and quantified. For these reasons, a SPME-GC/MS measurement was also investigated. This technique allowed the identification of saturated aldehydes as the main volatiles present in the headspace of infant milk powders. An isotope dilution assay was further developed to quantitate hexanal as a potential indicator of infant milk powder oxidation. Thus, hexanal content was found to vary from roughly 500 and 3500 microg/kg for relatively non-oxidized and oxidized infant formulas, respectively.

New analysis methods to push the boundaries of diagnostic techniques in the environmental sciences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lungaroni, M.; Murari, A.; Peluso, E.; Gelfusa, M.; Malizia, A.; Vega, J.; Talebzadeh, S.; Gaudio, P.

2016-04-01

In the last years, new and more sophisticated measurements have been at the basis of the major progress in various disciplines related to the environment, such as remote sensing and thermonuclear fusion. To maximize the effectiveness of the measurements, new data analysis techniques are required. First data processing tasks, such as filtering and fitting, are of primary importance, since they can have a strong influence on the rest of the analysis. Even if Support Vector Regression is a method devised and refined at the end of the 90s, a systematic comparison with more traditional non parametric regression methods has never been reported. In this paper, a series of systematic tests is described, which indicates how SVR is a very competitive method of non-parametric regression that can usefully complement and often outperform more consolidated approaches. The performance of Support Vector Regression as a method of filtering is investigated first, comparing it with the most popular alternative techniques. Then Support Vector Regression is applied to the problem of non-parametric regression to analyse Lidar surveys for the environments measurement of particulate matter due to wildfires. The proposed approach has given very positive results and provides new perspectives to the interpretation of the data.

Essentials of TAT and Other Storytelling Techniques Assessment. Essentials of Psychological Assessment Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Teglasi, Hedwig

This book provides guidance into the use of storytelling techniques as an approach to personality assessment and explains how to administer, score, and interpret such tests. The tests discussed include the Thematic Apperception Test (TAT), the Roberts Apperception Test for Children, and the TEMAS (Tell-Me-a-Story). Each chapter contains callout…

A technique for conducting point pattern analysis of cluster plot stem-maps

Treesearch

C.W. Woodall; J.M. Graham

2004-01-01

Point pattern analysis of forest inventory stem-maps may aid interpretation and inventory estimation of forest attributes. To evaluate the techniques and benefits of conducting point pattern analysis of forest inventory stem-maps, Ripley`s K(t) was calculated for simulated tree spatial distributions and for over 600 USDA Forest Service Forest...

Hypothesis Testing, "p" Values, Confidence Intervals, Measures of Effect Size, and Bayesian Methods in Light of Modern Robust Techniques

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilcox, Rand R.; Serang, Sarfaraz

2017-01-01

The article provides perspectives on p values, null hypothesis testing, and alternative techniques in light of modern robust statistical methods. Null hypothesis testing and "p" values can provide useful information provided they are interpreted in a sound manner, which includes taking into account insights and advances that have…

Ultrasound of the thyroid and parathyroid glands.

PubMed

Barraclough, B M; Barraclough, B H

2000-02-01

The superficial position of thyroid and parathyroid glands facilitates the use of diagnostic ultrasound (US) as an imaging technique. Techniques of image acquisition and interpretation are described in detail. Size and morphology of glands can be defined easily. The most important use of US guided biopsy in relation to thyroid and parathyroid glands is to increase diagnostic accuracy.

All in the Training: Techniques for Enhancing Karst Landscape Education through Show Cave Interpretation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

North, Leslie; van Beynen, Philip

2016-01-01

Despite the abundance of karst terrains and a universal lack of knowledge about the role they play in supplying freshwater resources, informal environmental education through guided show cave tours is poorly understood. This study evaluated techniques for educating cave guides on how to disseminate information about human-karst interactions to…

International Road Signs: Interpretability and Training Techniques.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Griffith, Douglas; Actkinson, Tomme R.

The drivers in a battalion about to be deployed to Germany were taught the meanings of international road signs using one of the following techniques: Sign Only, in which the road signs were presented via a slide projector and the names of the slides provided orally by the instructor; Sign Elaboration, which was identical to the Sign Only…

The Electronic Spectrum of Iodine Revisited.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McNaught, Ian J.

1980-01-01

Presents equations and techniques for calculating and interpreting many of the spectroscopically important parameters associated with the ground and second excited states of the iodine molecule. (Author/CS)

A systematic approach to the interpretation of preoperative staging MRI for rectal cancer.

PubMed

Taylor, Fiona G M; Swift, Robert I; Blomqvist, Lennart; Brown, Gina

2008-12-01

The purpose of this article is to provide an aid to the systematic evaluation of MRI in staging rectal cancer. MRI has been shown to be an effective tool for the accurate preoperative staging of rectal cancer. In the Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Rectal Cancer European Equivalence Study (MERCURY), imaging workshops were held for participating radiologists to ensure standardization of scan acquisition techniques and interpretation of the images. In this article, we report how the information was obtained and give examples of the images and how they are interpreted, with the aim of providing a systematic approach to the reporting process.

Hearing children of Deaf parents: Gender and birth order in the delegation of the interpreter role in culturally Deaf families.

PubMed

Moroe, Nomfundo F; de Andrade, Victor

2018-01-01

Culturally, hearing children born to Deaf parents may have to mediate two different positions within the hearing and Deaf cultures. However, there appears to be little written about the experiences of hearing children born to Deaf parents in the South African context. This study sought to investigate the roles of children of Deaf adults (CODAs) as interpreters in Deaf-parented families, more specifically, the influence of gender and birth order in language brokering. Two male and eight female participants between the ages of 21 and 40 years were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling strategies. A qualitative design was employed and data were collected using a semi-structured, open-ended interview format. Themes which emerged were analysed using thematic analysis. The findings indicated that there was no formal assignment of the interpreter role; however, female children tended to assume the role of interpreter more often than the male children. Also, it appeared as though the older children shifted the responsibility for interpreting to younger siblings. The participants in this study indicated that they interpreted in situations where they felt they were not developmentally or emotionally ready, or in situations which they felt were better suited for older siblings or for siblings of another gender. This study highlights a need for the formalisation of interpreting services for Deaf people in South Africa in the form of professional interpreters rather than the reliance on hearing children as interpreters in order to mediate between Deaf and hearing cultures.

Hearing children of Deaf parents: Gender and birth order in the delegation of the interpreter role in culturally Deaf families

PubMed Central

de Andrade, Victor

2018-01-01

Background Culturally, hearing children born to Deaf parents may have to mediate two different positions within the hearing and Deaf cultures. However, there appears to be little written about the experiences of hearing children born to Deaf parents in the South African context. Objective This study sought to investigate the roles of children of Deaf adults (CODAs) as interpreters in Deaf-parented families, more specifically, the influence of gender and birth order in language brokering. Method Two male and eight female participants between the ages of 21 and 40 years were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling strategies. A qualitative design was employed and data were collected using a semi-structured, open-ended interview format. Themes which emerged were analysed using thematic analysis. Results The findings indicated that there was no formal assignment of the interpreter role; however, female children tended to assume the role of interpreter more often than the male children. Also, it appeared as though the older children shifted the responsibility for interpreting to younger siblings. The participants in this study indicated that they interpreted in situations where they felt they were not developmentally or emotionally ready, or in situations which they felt were better suited for older siblings or for siblings of another gender. Conclusion This study highlights a need for the formalisation of interpreting services for Deaf people in South Africa in the form of professional interpreters rather than the reliance on hearing children as interpreters in order to mediate between Deaf and hearing cultures. PMID:29850437

Complex Interaction Mechanisms between Dislocations and Point Defects Studied in Pure Aluminium by a Two-Wave Acoustic Coupling Technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bremnes, O.; Progin, O.; Gremaud, G.; Benoit, W.

1997-04-01

Ultrasonic experiments using a two-wave coupling technique were performed on 99.999% pure Al in order to study the interaction mechanisms occurring between dislocations and point defects. The coupling technique consists in measuring the attenuation of ultrasonic waves during low-frequency stress cycles (t). One obtains closed curves () called signatures whose shape and evolution are characteristic of the interaction mechanism controlling the low-frequency dislocation motion. The signatures observed were attributed to the interaction of the dislocations with extrinsic point defects. A new interpretation of the evolution of the signatures measured below 200 K with respect to temperature and stress frequency had to be established: they are linked to depinning of immobile point defects, whereas a thermally activated depinning mechanism does not fit the observations. The signatures measured between 200 and 370 K were interpreted as dragging and depinning of extrinsic point defects which are increasingly mobile with temperature.

Laboratory measurements of microwave and millimeter-wave properties of planetary atmospheric constituents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steffes, Paul G.

1989-01-01

Accurate data on microwave and millimeter-wave properties of potential planetary atmospheric constituents is critical for the proper interpretation of radio occultation measurements, and of radio astronomical observations of both continuum and spectral line emissions. Such data is also needed to correct for atmospheric effects on radar studies of surface reflectivity. Since the refractive and absorptive properties of atmospheric constituents often vary drastically from theoretically-predicted profiles, especially under the extreme conditions characteristic of the planetary atmosphere, laboratory measurements under simulated planetary conditions are required. This paper reviews the instrumentation and techniques used for laboratory measurement of the refractivity and absorptivity of atmospheric constituents at wavelengths longward of 1 mm, under simulated planetary conditions (temperature, pressure, and broadening gases). Techniques for measuring both gases and condensates are considered. Also reviewed are the relative accuracies of the various techniques. Laboratory measurements are reviewed which have already been made, and additional measurements which are needed for interpretation of data from Venus and the outer planets, are highlighted.