Preventing patient-to-worker violence in hospitals: outcome of a randomized controlled intervention

PubMed Central

Arnetz, Judith E.; Hamblin, Lydia; Russell, Jim; Upfal, Mark J.; Luborsky, Mark; Janisse, James; Essenmacher, Lynnette

2016-01-01

Objective To evaluate the effects of a randomized controlled intervention on the incidence of patient-to-worker (Type II) violence and related injury in hospitals. Methods Forty-one units across 7 hospitals were randomized into intervention (n=21) and control (n=20) groups. Intervention units received unit-level violence data to facilitate development of an action plan for violence prevention; no data were presented to control units. Main outcomes were rates of violent events and injuries across study groups over time. Results Six months post-intervention, incident rate ratios of violent events were significantly lower on intervention units compared to controls (IRR 0.48, 95% CI 0.29-0.80). At 24 months, the risk for violence-related injury was lower on intervention units, compared to controls (IRR 0.37, 95% CI 0.17-0.83). Conclusion This data-driven, worksite-based intervention was effective in decreasing risks of patient-to-worker violence and related injury. PMID:28045793

Improvement of the Power Control Unit for Ion Thruster to Cope with Milli-Newton Range RIT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ceruti, Luca; Polli, Aldo; Galantini, Paolo

2014-08-01

The recent development and testing activities of a miniaturized Radio-Frequency Ion Thruster, with relevant ancillary elements, in the range of 10 to 100 micro-Newtons, joined with past flight heritage in the milli-Newton range (RIT-10 for Artemis), shows an appealing capability of such an electrical propulsion technology to support thrust in a wide range of space applications from very fine attitude control up to deorbiting of small-medium satellites. As expectable, this implies that the mentioned ancillary elements (mainly Radio-Frequency Generator and Power Control Unit) require adaptation to the different requirements imposed to different missions and thrust ranges. Regarding the Power Control Unit different power levels, both the controllability requirements and the spacecraft interfaces impose non negligible adaptation leading to significant increase of development activities and associated cost (nonrecurring) increase. From that and with the main purpose to minimize such impacts and provide reliable equipments, Selex ES since a few years is devoting maximum attention in the incremental innovation of the existing design in order to maximize their reuse.

Introduction to Agronomy, Grain Crops, Weeds and Controls. A Learning Activity Pac in Agricultural Education Courses in Wisconsin.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wisconsin State Dept. of Public Instruction, Madison. Div. of Instructional Services.

This learning activity pac contains information to help the teachers of high school vocational agriculture in the instructional area of agronomy. Each of the two main sections, grain crops and weeds and controls, includes teacher and student units for the section lessons. Teacher units include special instructions--equipment needed (film…

4. Main Control Switchboard (south end rear), view to the ...

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

4. Main Control Switchboard (south end rear), view to the north, with item 2 (the load frequency control panel) visible in right foreground, through item 7 (generator Unit 4 control panel) obliquely visible on left side of the photograph. Part of item 1 (the synchronization monitor) is visible behind the phone on right side of photograph. - Washington Water Power Clark Fork River Noxon Rapids Hydroelectric Development, Powerhouse, South bank of Clark Fork River at Noxon Rapids, Noxon, Sanders County, MT

Electric auxiliary power unit for Shuttle evolution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meyer, Doug; Weber, Kent; Scott, Walter

1989-01-01

The Space Shuttle Orbiter currently uses three hydrazine fueled auxiliary power units (APUs) to provide hydraulic power for the vehicle aerodynamic surface controls, main engine thrust vector control, landing gear, steering, and brakes. Electric auxiliary power units have been proposed as possible replacements to the hydrazine auxiliary power units. Along with the potential advantages, this paper describes an Electric APU configuration and addresses the technical issues and risks associated with the subsystem components. Additionally, characteristics of an Electric APU compared to the existing APU and the direction of future study with respect to the Electric APU is suggested.

Integrated wireless sensor network and real time smart controlling and monitoring system for efficient energy management in standalone photovoltaic systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abou-Elnour, Ali; Thabt, A.; Helmy, S.; Kashf, Y.; Hadad, Y.; Tarique, M.; Abo-Elnor, Ossama

2014-04-01

In the present work, wireless sensor network and smart real-time controlling and monitoring system are integrated for efficient energy management of standalone photovoltaic system. The proposed system has two main components namely the monitoring and controlling system and the wireless communication system. LabView software has been used in the implementation of the monitoring and controlling system. On the other hand, ZigBee wireless modules have been used to implement the wireless system. The main functions of monitoring and controlling unit is to efficiently control the energy consumption form the photovoltaic system based on accurate determination of the periods of times at which the loads are required to be operated. The wireless communication system send the data from the monitoring and controlling unit to the loads at which desired switching operations are performed. The wireless communication system also continuously feeds the monitoring and controlling unit with updated input data from the sensors and from the photovoltaic module send to calculate and record the generated, the consumed, and the stored energy to apply load switching saving schemes if necessary. It has to be mentioned that our proposed system is a low cost and low power system because and it is flexible to be upgraded to fulfill additional users' requirements.

Design of an intelligent flight instrumentation unit using embedded RTOS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Estrada-Marmolejo, R.; García-Torales, G.; Torres-Ortega, H. H.; Flores, J. L.

2011-09-01

Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (MUAV) must calculate its spatial position to control the flight dynamics, which is done by Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs). MEMS Inertial sensors have made possible to reduce the size and power consumption of such units. Commonly the flight instrumentation operates independently of the main processor. This work presents an instrumentation block design, which reduces size and power consumption of the complete system of a MUAV. This is done by coupling the inertial sensors to the main processor without considering any intermediate level of processing aside. Using Real Time Operating Systems (RTOS) reduces the number of intermediate components, increasing MUAV reliability. One advantage is the possibility to control several different sensors with a single communication bus. This feature of the MEMS sensors makes a smaller and less complex MUAV design possible.

Remediation by Natural Attenuation Treatability Study for Operable Unit 5

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-12-01

remaining as a result of all attenuation processes is equivalent to the fraction of contaminant remaining as a result of non - destructive attenuation...Alternative 1-- RNA Combined with LTM, Institutional Controls , Air Sparging Along Main Street, and Groundwater Extraction and Treatment Near Well Pair MW137...MW138 .............................. 6-4 6.3.2 Alternative 2 -- RNA, LTM, Institutional Controls , Air Sparging along Main Street, Groundwater

The core structure of ginsenan PA, a phagocytosis-activating polysaccharide from the root of Panax ginseng.

PubMed

Tomoda, M; Hirabayashi, K; Shimizu, N; Gonda, R; Ohara, N

1994-09-01

Controlled Smith degradation and limited hydrolysis of ginsenan PA, the main phagocytosis-activating polysaccharide isolated from the root of Panax ginseng C. A. Meyer, were performed. The reticuloendothelial system-potentiating and anti-complementary activities of the degradation products were investigated. Methylation analysis of the primary and secondary Smith degradation products indicated that the core structural features of ginsenan PA include a backbone chain mainly composed of beta-1,3-linked D-galactose. Almost half of the galactose units in the backbone carry side-chains composed of beta-1,6-linked D-galactosyl residues at position 6. Further 3,6-branching of D-galactose units was observed in a part of the side-chains. alpha-L-Arabinose units are connected mainly to the core galactose moieties via position 6. Removal of most of the arabinose units had a considerable effect on immunological activity.

Application of Multivariable Model Predictive Advanced Control for a 2×310T/H CFB Boiler Unit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weijie, Zhao; Zongllao, Dai; Rong, Gou; Wengan, Gong

When a CFB boiler is in automatic control, there are strong interactions between various process variables and inverse response characteristics of bed temperature control target. Conventional Pill control strategy cannot deliver satisfactory control demand. Kalman wave filter technology is used to establish a non-linear combustion model, based on the CFB combustion characteristics of bed fuel inventory, heating values, bed lime inventory and consumption. CFB advanced combustion control utilizes multivariable model predictive control technology to optimize primary and secondary air flow, bed temperature, air flow, fuel flow and heat flux. In addition to providing advanced combustion control to 2×310t/h CFB+1×100MW extraction condensing turbine generator unit, the control also provides load allocation optimization and advanced control for main steam pressure, combustion and temperature. After the successful implementation, under 10% load change, main steam pressure varied less than ±0.07MPa, temperature less than ±1°C, bed temperature less than ±4°C, and air flow (O2) less than ±0.4%.

Sensitivity of isolates of phytophthora capsici from the eastern United States to fluopicolide

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Fluopicolide, a pyridinylmethyl-benzamide fungicide, was registered in the United States in 2008 to control diseases caused by Oomycete pathogens, such as Phytophthora capsici, on cucurbit and solanaceous vegetables. The main objective of this study was to determine baseline sensitivity to fluopico...

Research Governance and the Role of Evaluation: A Comparative Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Molas-Gallart, Jordi

2012-01-01

Through a comparative study of the United Kingdom and Spain, this article addresses the effect of different research governance structures on the functioning and uses of research evaluation. It distinguishes three main evaluation uses: distributive, improvement, and controlling. Research evaluation in the United Kingdom plays important…

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

Liu, Xiaobing; Zheng, O'Neill; Niu, Fuxin

Most commercial ground source heat pump systems (GSHP) in the United States are in a distributed configuration. These systems circulate water or an anti-freeze solution through multiple heat pump units via a central pumping system, which usually uses variable speed pump(s). Variable speed pumps have potential to significantly reduce pumping energy use; however, the energy savings in reality could be far away from its potential due to improper pumping system design and controls. In this paper, a simplified hydronic pumping system was simulated with the dynamic Modelica models to evaluate three different pumping control strategies. This includes two conventional controlmore » strategies, which are to maintain a constant differential pressure across either the supply and return mains, or at the most hydraulically remote heat pump; and an innovative control strategy, which adjusts system flow rate based on the demand of each heat pump. The simulation results indicate that a significant overflow occurs at part load conditions when the variable speed pump is controlled to main a constant differential pressure across the supply and return mains of the piping system. On the other hand, an underflow occurs at part load conditions when the variable speed pump is controlled to maintain a constant differential pressure across the furthest heat pump. The flow-demand-based control can provide needed flow rate to each heat pump at any given time, and with less pumping energy use than the two conventional controls. Finally, a typical distributed GSHP system was studied to evaluate the energy saving potential of applying the flow-demand-based pumping control strategy. This case study shows that the annual pumping energy consumption can be reduced by 62% using the flow-demand-based control compared with that using the conventional pressure-based control to maintain a constant differential pressure a cross the supply and return mains.« less

33 CFR 164.25 - Tests before entering or getting underway.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... emergency lighting and power systems in vessel control and propulsion machinery spaces. (5) Main propulsion...) The main steering gear from the alternative power supply, if installed. (iv) Each rudder angle... power failure alarm. (vi) Each remote steering gear power unit failure alarm. (vii) The full movement of...

33 CFR 164.25 - Tests before entering or getting underway.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... emergency lighting and power systems in vessel control and propulsion machinery spaces. (5) Main propulsion...) The main steering gear from the alternative power supply, if installed. (iv) Each rudder angle... power failure alarm. (vi) Each remote steering gear power unit failure alarm. (vii) The full movement of...

Power-processing unit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wessel, Frank J. (Inventor); Hancock, Donald J. (Inventor)

1987-01-01

Power-processing unit uses AC buses (30, 32) to supply all current dependent needs such as connections (54, 56) to an ion thruster through an inductor (88) and the primary of a transformer (90), to assure limited currents to such loads. Where temperature control is also required, such as to the main discharge vaporizer heater connection (36, 38), switches (100, 102) are serially connected with inductor (96) and the primary of transformer (98). Temperature sensor (104) controls the switches (100, 102) for temperature regulation.

46 CFR 61.20-3 - Main and auxiliary machinery and associated equipment, including fluid control systems.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... control for the means of stopping machinery driving forced and induced draft fans, fuel oil transfer pumps, fuel oil unit pumps, and fans in the ventilation systems serving machinery and cargo spaces shall be...

Sodium content of popular commercially processed and restaurant foods in the United States

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Nutrient Data Laboratory (NDL) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in close collaboration with U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention is monitoring the sodium content of commercially processed and restaurant foods in the United States. The main purpose of this manuscript is to prov...

Television and Reading in the United Kingdom.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gardner, Keith

Television output in the United Kingdom is limited to three main channels. Two of these are controlled by a public corporation, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC); one is operated by a number of commercial companies under the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA). Both the BBC and IBA have expanded their educational output in recent…

47 CFR 95.1217 - Labeling requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... programmer/control transmitters shall be labeled as provided in part 2 of this chapter and shall bear the... where it is not feasible to place the statement on the device. (b) Where a MedRadio programmer/control... specified in this section is required to be affixed only to the main control unit. (c) MedRadio transmitters...

Design and realization of an active SAR calibrator for TerraSAR-X

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dummer, Georg; Lenz, Rainer; Lutz, Benjamin; Kühl, Markus; Müller-Glaser, Klaus D.; Wiesbeck, Werner

2005-10-01

TerraSAR-X is a new earth observing satellite which will be launched in spring 2006. It carries a high resolution X-band SAR sensor. For high image data quality, accurate ground calibration targets are necessary. This paper describes a novel system concept for an active and highly integrated, digitally controlled SAR system calibrator. A total of 16 active transponder and receiver systems and 17 receiver only systems will be fabricated for a calibration campaign. The calibration units serve for absolute radiometric calibration of the SAR image data. Additionally, they are equipped with an extra receiver path for two dimensional satellite antenna pattern recognition. The calibrator is controlled by a dedicated digital Electronic Control Unit (ECU). The different voltages needed by the calibrator and the ECU are provided by the third main unit called Power Management Unit (PMU).

Locomotive Emission and Engine Idle Reduction Technology Demonstration Project

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

John R. Archer

2005-03-14

In response to a United States Department of Energy (DOE) solicitation, the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA), in partnership with CSX Transportation, Inc. (CSXT), submitted a proposal to DOE to support the demonstration of Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) technology on fifty-six CSXT locomotives. The project purpose was to demonstrate the idle fuel savings, the Nitrous Oxide (NOX) emissions reduction and the noise reduction capabilities of the APU. Fifty-six CSXT Baltimore Division locomotives were equipped with APUs, Engine Run Managers (ERM) and communications equipment to permit GPS tracking and data collection from the locomotives. Throughout the report there is mention of themore » percent time spent in the State of Maryland. The fifty-six locomotives spent most of their time inside the borders of Maryland and some spent all their time inside the state borders. Usually when a locomotive traveled beyond the Maryland State border it was into an adjoining state. They were divided into four groups according to assignment: (1) Power Unit/Switcher Mate units, (2) Remote Control units, (3) SD50 Pusher units and (4) Other units. The primary data of interest were idle data plus the status of the locomotive--stationary or moving. Also collected were main engine off, idling or working. Idle data were collected by county location, by locomotive status (stationary or moving) and type of idle (Idle 1, main engine idling, APU off; Idle 2, main engine off, APU on; Idle 3, main engine off, APU off; Idle 4, main engine idle, APU on). Desirable main engine idle states are main engine off and APU off or main engine off and APU on. Measuring the time the main engine spends in these desirable states versus the total time it could spend in an engine idling state allows the calculation of Percent Idle Management Effectiveness (%IME). IME is the result of the operation of the APU plus the implementation of CSXT's Warm Weather Shutdown Policy. It is difficult to separate the two. The units demonstrated an IME of 64% at stationary idle for the test period. The data collected during calendar year 2004 demonstrated that 707,600 gallons of fuel were saved and 285 tons of NOX were not emitted as a result of idle management in stationary idle, which translates to 12,636 gallons and 5.1 tons of NOx per unit respectively. The noise reduction capabilities of the APU demonstrated that at 150 feet from the locomotive the loaded APU with the main engine shut down generated noise that was only marginally above ambient noise level.« less

The Electrical Power System of HTV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kiewe, Bernhard; Maejima, Takaharu

2005-05-01

The paper describes the power system of H2-Transfer Vehicle with special focus on the Power Control Unit (PCU). This PCU is the main element of the solar generator power system, operating 30 solar sections in their maximum power point individually and controlling the state of charge of the rechargeable Li- Ion battery. The driving requirements for the PCU are summarized in this paper. The design of the main functions is described and a summary of the performance test results is given.

Space shuttle main engine controller

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mattox, R. M.; White, J. B.

1981-01-01

A technical description of the space shuttle main engine controller, which provides engine checkout prior to launch, engine control and monitoring during launch, and engine safety and monitoring in orbit, is presented. Each of the major controller subassemblies, the central processing unit, the computer interface electronics, the input electronics, the output electronics, and the power supplies are described and discussed in detail along with engine and orbiter interfaces and operational requirements. The controller represents a unique application of digital concepts, techniques, and technology in monitoring, managing, and controlling a high performance rocket engine propulsion system. The operational requirements placed on the controller, the extremely harsh operating environment to which it is exposed, and the reliability demanded, result in the most complex and rugged digital system ever designed, fabricated, and flown.

Thrips biocontrol: opportunities for use of natural enemies against the pear thrips

Treesearch

Nick J. Mills

1991-01-01

Thrips have been considered as both target pests and control agents in biological control. The main emphasis of this paper concerns the natural enemies of thrips and an appraisal of the potential for biological control of the pear thrips on sugar maple in the northeastern United States. Previous attempts at biological control of thrips pests have been confined to the...

A simulation-based study on different control strategies for variable speed pump in distributed ground source heat pump systems

DOE PAGES

Liu, Xiaobing; Zheng, O'Neill; Niu, Fuxin

2016-01-01

Most commercial ground source heat pump systems (GSHP) in the United States are in a distributed configuration. These systems circulate water or an anti-freeze solution through multiple heat pump units via a central pumping system, which usually uses variable speed pump(s). Variable speed pumps have potential to significantly reduce pumping energy use; however, the energy savings in reality could be far away from its potential due to improper pumping system design and controls. In this paper, a simplified hydronic pumping system was simulated with the dynamic Modelica models to evaluate three different pumping control strategies. This includes two conventional controlmore » strategies, which are to maintain a constant differential pressure across either the supply and return mains, or at the most hydraulically remote heat pump; and an innovative control strategy, which adjusts system flow rate based on the demand of each heat pump. The simulation results indicate that a significant overflow occurs at part load conditions when the variable speed pump is controlled to main a constant differential pressure across the supply and return mains of the piping system. On the other hand, an underflow occurs at part load conditions when the variable speed pump is controlled to maintain a constant differential pressure across the furthest heat pump. The flow-demand-based control can provide needed flow rate to each heat pump at any given time, and with less pumping energy use than the two conventional controls. Finally, a typical distributed GSHP system was studied to evaluate the energy saving potential of applying the flow-demand-based pumping control strategy. This case study shows that the annual pumping energy consumption can be reduced by 62% using the flow-demand-based control compared with that using the conventional pressure-based control to maintain a constant differential pressure a cross the supply and return mains.« less

The SS x-ray unit as an instrument for "total registration" and "race selection".

PubMed

Schmidt, Mathias; Winzen, Tina; Gross, Dominik

2015-05-01

The aim of this article is to show that, after the onset of World War II at the latest, the central task of the x-ray unit of the Nazi-SS (Schutzstaffel) led by Prof. Hans Holfelder was by no means the early diagnosis of tuberculosis. Its primary purpose, rather, was to serve the various "racial" and inhuman aims of the SS itself. Main historical sources and information about the SS x-ray unit are surveyed and analyzed. Clearly, the significance of the x-ray storm unit was increasingly subordinated to the necessities of the war until its original objectives disappeared from focus completely. The main purpose of operation of the x-ray storm unit thus by no means lay in the early detection of tuberculosis and did not therefore serve tuberculosis control. The actual objective lay, rather, in the implementation of SS aims in terms of Volk politics, genetics, and "racial hygiene".

Program documentation. Program description and user information for the hydraulics/auxiliary power unit (HYDRA) computer program. [for the space shuttle orbiter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Redwine, W. J.

1979-01-01

A timeline containing altitude, control surface deflection rates and angles, hinge moment loads, thrust vector control gimbal rates, and main throttle settings is used to derive the model. The timeline is constructed from the output of one or more trajectory simulation programs.

Semantic processing in connected speech at a uniformly early stage of autopsy-confirmed Alzheimer's disease.

PubMed

Ahmed, Samrah; de Jager, Celeste A; Haigh, Anne-Marie; Garrard, Peter

2013-01-01

The aim of the present study was to quantify the semantic content of connected speech produced by patients at a uniformly early stage of pathologically proven Alzheimer's disease (AD). A secondary aim was to establish whether semantic units were reduced globally, or whether there was a disproportionate reduction of specific classes of information. Discourse samples were obtained from 18 AD patients and 18 matched controls, all pathologically confirmed. Semantic unit identification was scored overall and for four subclasses: subjects, locations, objects, and actions. Idea density and efficiency were calculated. AD transcripts showed significantly reduced units overall, particularly actions and subjects, as well as reduced efficiency. Total semantic units and a combination of subject-, location-, and object-related units ("noun" units) correlated with the Expression subscore on the Cambridge Cognitive Examination (CAMCOG). Subject related units correlated with the CAMCOG Abstract Thinking scale. Logistic regression analyses confirmed that all measures that were lower in AD than controls were predictive of group membership. An exploratory comparison between units expressed mainly using nouns and those mainly using verbs showed that the latter was the stronger of these two predictors. The present study adds a lexico-semantic dimension to the linguistic profile based on discourse analysis in typical AD, recently described by the same authors. 2012, 83(11): 1056-1062). The suggestion of differential importance of verb and noun use in the present study may be related to the reduction in syntactic complexity that was reported, using the same set of discourse samples, in the earlier study.

Multifaceted intervention to decrease the rate of severe postpartum haemorrhage: the PITHAGORE6 cluster-randomised controlled trial

PubMed Central

Deneux-Tharaux, Catherine; Dupont, Corinne; Colin, C.; Rabilloud, Muriel; Touzet, S.; Lansac, Jacques; Harvey, Thierry; Tessier, Véronique; Chauleur, C.; Pennehouat, G.; Morin, X.; Bouvier-Colle, Marie-Hélène; Rudigoz, René

2010-01-01

Objective Decreasing the prevalence of severe postpartum haemorrhages (PPH) is a major obstetrical challenge. These are often considered to be associated with substandard initial care. Strategies to increase the appropriateness of early management of PPH must be assessed. We tested the hypothesis that a multifaceted intervention aimed at increasing the translation into practice of a protocol for early management of PPH, would reduce the incidence of severe PPH. Design Cluster-randomised trial Population 106 maternity units in 6 French regions Methods Maternity units were randomly assigned to receive the intervention, or to have the protocol passively disseminated. The intervention combined outreach visits to discuss the protocol in each local context, reminders, and peer reviews of severe cases, and was implemented in each maternity hospital by a team pairing an obstetrician and a midwife. Main outcome measures The primary outcome was the incidence of severe PPH, defined as a composite of one or more of: transfusion, embolisation, surgical procedure, transfer to intensive care, peripartum haemoglobin delta of 4 g/dl or more, death. The main secondary outcomes were PPH management practices. Results The mean rate of severe PPH was 1.64% (SD0.80) in the intervention units and 1.65% (SD0.96) in control units; difference not significant. Some elements of PPH management were applied more frequently in intervention units –help from senior staff (p=0.005)-, or tended to – second line pharmacological treatment (p=0.06), timely blood test (p=0.09). Conclusion This educational intervention did not affect the rate of severe PPH as compared to control units, although it improved some practices. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT 00344929 PMID:20573150

Nonlinear adaptive control of grid-connected three-phase inverters for renewable energy applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahdian-Dehkordi, N.; Namvar, M.; Karimi, H.; Piya, P.; Karimi-Ghartemani, M.

2017-01-01

Distributed generation (DG) units are often interfaced to the main grid using power electronic converters including voltage-source converters (VSCs). A VSC offers dc/ac power conversion, high controllability, and fast dynamic response. Because of nonlinearities, uncertainties, and system parameters' changes involved in the nature of a grid-connected renewable DG system, conventional linear control methods cannot completely and efficiently address all control objectives. In this paper, a nonlinear adaptive control scheme based on adaptive backstepping strategy is presented to control the operation of a grid-connected renewable DG unit. As compared to the popular vector control technique, the proposed controller offers smoother transient responses, and lower level of current distortions. The Lyapunov approach is used to establish global asymptotic stability of the proposed control system. Linearisation technique is employed to develop guidelines for parameters tuning of the controller. Extensive time-domain digital simulations are performed and presented to verify the performance of the proposed controller when employed in a VSC to control the operation of a two-stage DG unit and also that of a single-stage solar photovoltaic system. Desirable and superior performance of the proposed controller is observed.

Review of LOGEX. Main Report and Appendixes A-I

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-05-23

been developed on an RCA Spectra 70 machine located at the Army Logistics Management Center, Fort Lee, Virginia. This was undoubtedly an outstanding...Control Number ADP - Automatic Data Processing ACT - Active Duty for Training ALMC - US Army Logistics Management Center AMO - Ammunition AR - Amy...Directorate CPT McClellan, LOGEX Directorate CPT Weaver, LOGEX Directorate United States Army Logistics Management Center Mr. Loper Mr. Ross United States

Convergence of pattern generator outputs on a common mechanism of diaphragm motor unit recruitment

PubMed Central

Mantilla, Carlos B.; Seven, Yasin B.; Sieck, Gary C.

2014-01-01

Motor units are the final element of neuromotor control. In manner analogous to the organization of neuromotor control in other skeletal muscles, diaphragm motor units comprise phrenic motoneurons located in the cervical spinal cord that innervate the diaphragm muscle, the main inspiratory muscle in mammals. Diaphragm motor units play a primary role in sustaining ventilation, but are also active in other non-ventilatory behaviors, including coughing, sneezing, vomiting, defecation and parturition. Diaphragm muscle fibers comprise all fiber types. Thus, diaphragm motor units display substantial differences in contractile and fatigue properties, but importantly properties of the motoneuron and muscle fibers within a motor unit are matched. As in other skeletal muscles, diaphragm motor units are recruited in order such that motor units that display greater fatigue resistance are recruited earlier and more often than more fatigable motor units. The properties of the motor unit population are critical determinants of the function of a skeletal muscle across the range of possible motor tasks. Accordingly, fatigue-resistant motor units are sufficient to generate the forces necessary for ventilatory behaviors whereas more fatigable units are only activated during expulsive behaviors important for airway clearance. Neuromotor control of diaphragm motor units may reflect selective inputs from distinct pattern generators distributed according to the motor unit properties necessary to accomplish these different motor tasks. In contrast, widely-distributed inputs to phrenic motoneurons from various pattern generators (e.g., for breathing, coughing or vocalization) would dictate recruitment order based on intrinsic electrophysiological properties. PMID:24746055

Power Converters Maximize Outputs Of Solar Cell Strings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frederick, Martin E.; Jermakian, Joel B.

1993-01-01

Microprocessor-controlled dc-to-dc power converters devised to maximize power transferred from solar photovoltaic strings to storage batteries and other electrical loads. Converters help in utilizing large solar photovoltaic arrays most effectively with respect to cost, size, and weight. Main points of invention are: single controller used to control and optimize any number of "dumb" tracker units and strings independently; power maximized out of converters; and controller in system is microprocessor.

[Integrated Development of Full-automatic Fluorescence Analyzer].

PubMed

Zhang, Mei; Lin, Zhibo; Yuan, Peng; Yao, Zhifeng; Hu, Yueming

2015-10-01

In view of the fact that medical inspection equipment sold in the domestic market is mainly imported from abroad and very expensive, we developed a full-automatic fluorescence analyzer in our center, presented in this paper. The present paper introduces the hardware architecture design of FPGA/DSP motion controlling card+PC+ STM32 embedded micro processing unit, software system based on C# multi thread, design and implementation of double-unit communication in detail. By simplifying the hardware structure, selecting hardware legitimately and adopting control system software to object-oriented technology, we have improved the precision and velocity of the control system significantly. Finally, the performance test showed that the control system could meet the needs of automated fluorescence analyzer on the functionality, performance and cost.

Matching of energetic, mechanic and control characteristics of positioning actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Y Nosova, N.; Misyurin, S. Yu; Kreinin, G. V.

2017-12-01

The problem of preliminary choice of parameters of the automated drive power channel is discussed. The drive of the mechatronic complex divides into two main units - power and control. The first determines the energy capabilities and, as a rule, the overall dimensions of the complex. The sufficient capacity of the power unit is a necessary condition for successful solution of control tasks without excessive complication of the control system structure. Preliminary selection of parameters is carried out based on the condition of providing the necessary drive power. The proposed approach is based on: a research of a sufficiently developed but not excessive dynamic model of the power block with the help of a conditional test control system; a transition to a normalized model with the formation of similarity criteria; constructing the synthesis procedure.

The trend of digital control system design for nuclear power plants in Korea

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

Park, S. H.; Jung, H. Y.; Yang, C. Y.

2006-07-01

Currently there are 20 nuclear power plants (NPPs) in operation, and 6 more units are under construction in Korea. The control systems of those NPPs have also been developed together with the technology advancement. Control systems started with On-Off control using the relay logic, had been evolved into Solid-State logic using TTL ICs, and applied with the micro-processors since the Yonggwang NPP Units 3 and 4 which started its construction in 1989. Multiplexers are also installed at the local plant areas to collect field input and to send output signals while communicating with the controllers located in the system cabinetsmore » near the main control room in order to reduce the field wiring cables. The design of the digital control system technology for the NPPs in Korea has been optimized to maximize the operability as well as the safety through the design, construction, start-up and operation experiences. Both Shin-Kori Units 1 and 2 and Shin-Wolsong Units 1 and 2 NPP projects under construction are being progressed at the same time. Digital Plant Control Systems of these projects have adopted multi-loop controllers, redundant loop configuration, and soft control system for the radwaste system. Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Distributed Control System (DCS) are applied with soft control system in Shin-Kori Units 3 and 4. This paper describes the evolvement of control system at the NPPs in Korea and the experience and design improvement through the observation of the latest failure of the digital control system. In addition, design concept and its trend of the digital control system being applied to the NPP in Korea are introduced. (authors)« less

[Palliative care in the intensive cardiac care unit: a new competence for the cardiac intensivist].

PubMed

Romanò, Massimo; Bertona, Roberta; Zorzoli, Federica; Villani, Rosvaldo

2017-10-01

Admissions to the intensive care unit at the end of life of patients with chronic non-malignant diseases are increasing. This involves the need for the development of palliative care culture and competence, also in the field of intensive cardiology. Palliative care should be implemented in the treatment of all patients with critical stages of disease, irrespective of prognosis, in order to improve the quality of care at the end of life.This review analyzes in detail the main clinical, ethical and communicational issues to move toward the introduction of basics of palliative care in cardiac intensive care units. It outlines the importance of shared decision-making with the patient and his family, with special attention to withholding/withdrawing of life-sustaining treatments, palliative sedation, main symptom control, patient and family psychological support.

Flight Model of the `Flying Laptop' OBC and Reconfiguration Unit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eickhoff, Jens; Stratton, Sam; Butz, Pius; Cook, Barry; Walker, Paul; Uryu, Alexander; Lengowski, Michael; Roser, Hans-Peter

2012-08-01

As already published in papers at the DASIA conferences 2010 in Budapest [1] and 2011 in Malta [2], the University of Stuttgart, Germany, is developing an advanced 3-axis stabilized small satellite applying industry standards for command/control techniques, onboard software design and onboard computer components. The satellite has a launch mass of approx. 120kg. One of the main challenges was the development of an ultra compact and performing onboard computer (OBC), which was intended to support an RTEMS operating system, a PUS standard based onboard software (OBSW) and CCSDS standard based ground/space communication. The developed architecture is based on 4 main elements (see [1, 2] and Figure 3) which are developed in cooperation with industrial partners:• the OBC core board based on the LEON3 FT architecture,• an I/O Board for all OBC digital interfaces to S/C equipment,• a CCSDS TC/TM decoder/encoder board,• reconfiguration unit being embedded in the satellite power control and distribution unit PCDU.In the meantime the EM / Breadboard units of the computer have been tested intensively including first HW/SW integration tests in a Satellite Testbench (see Figure 2). The FM HW elements from the co-authoring suppliers are under assembly in Stuttgart.

Implementation of High Speed Distributed Data Acquisition System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raju, Anju P.; Sekhar, Ambika

2012-09-01

This paper introduces a high speed distributed data acquisition system based on a field programmable gate array (FPGA). The aim is to develop a "distributed" data acquisition interface. The development of instruments such as personal computers and engineering workstations based on "standard" platforms is the motivation behind this effort. Using standard platforms as the controlling unit allows independence in hardware from a particular vendor and hardware platform. The distributed approach also has advantages from a functional point of view: acquisition resources become available to multiple instruments; the acquisition front-end can be physically remote from the rest of the instrument. High speed data acquisition system transmits data faster to a remote computer system through Ethernet interface. The data is acquired through 16 analog input channels. The input data commands are multiplexed and digitized and then the data is stored in 1K buffer for each input channel. The main control unit in this design is the 16 bit processor implemented in the FPGA. This 16 bit processor is used to set up and initialize the data source and the Ethernet controller, as well as control the flow of data from the memory element to the NIC. Using this processor we can initialize and control the different configuration registers in the Ethernet controller in a easy manner. Then these data packets are sending to the remote PC through the Ethernet interface. The main advantages of the using FPGA as standard platform are its flexibility, low power consumption, short design duration, fast time to market, programmability and high density. The main advantages of using Ethernet controller AX88796 over others are its non PCI interface, the presence of embedded SRAM where transmit and reception buffers are located and high-performance SRAM-like interface. The paper introduces the implementation of the distributed data acquisition using FPGA by VHDL. The main advantages of this system are high accuracy, high speed, real time monitoring.

Variations in incubator temperature and humidity management: a survey of current practice.

PubMed

Deguines, C; Décima, P; Pelletier, A; Dégrugilliers, L; Ghyselen, L; Tourneux, P

2012-03-01

To describe and assess routine procedures and practices for incubator temperature and humidity management in France in 2009. A questionnaire was sent to all the 186 neonatal care units in France. The questionnaire return rate was 86%. Seventy-five per cent of the units preferred skin servo-control to air temperature control in routine practice. Air temperature control was mainly used for infants with a gestational age of more than 28 weeks and aged over 7 days of life. In general, thermal management decisions did not depend on the infant's age but were based on a protocol applied specifically by each unit. All units humidified the incubator air, but there was a large difference between the lowest and highest reported humidity values (45% and 100% assumed to be a maximal value, respectively). More than 65% of the units used a fixed humidity value, rather than a variable, protocol-derived value. We observed large variations in incubator temperature and humidity management approaches from one neonatal care unit to another. There is a need for more evidence to better inform practice. A task force should be formed to guide clinical practice. © 2011 The Author(s)/Acta Paediatrica © 2011 Foundation Acta Paediatrica.

Long-range wireless mesh network for weather monitoring in unfriendly geographic conditions.

PubMed

Toledano-Ayala, Manuel; Herrera-Ruiz, Gilberto; Soto-Zarazúa, Genaro M; Rivas-Araiza, Edgar A; Bazán Trujillo, Rey D; Porrás-Trejo, Rafael E

2011-01-01

In this paper a long-range wireless mesh network system is presented. It consists of three main parts: Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), Base Terminal Units (BTUs) and a Central Server (CS). The RTUs share a wireless network transmitting in the industrial, scientific and medical applications ISM band, which reaches up to 64 Km in a single point-to-point communication. A BTU controls the traffic within the network and has as its main task interconnecting it to a Ku-band satellite link using an embedded microcontroller-based gateway. Collected data is stored in a CS and presented to the final user in a numerical and a graphical form in a web portal.

Convergence of pattern generator outputs on a common mechanism of diaphragm motor unit recruitment.

PubMed

Mantilla, Carlos B; Seven, Yasin B; Sieck, Gary C

2014-01-01

Motor units are the final element of neuromotor control. In manner analogous to the organization of neuromotor control in other skeletal muscles, diaphragm motor units comprise phrenic motoneurons located in the cervical spinal cord that innervate the diaphragm muscle, the main inspiratory muscle in mammals. Diaphragm motor units play a primary role in sustaining ventilation but are also active in other nonventilatory behaviors, including coughing, sneezing, vomiting, defecation, and parturition. Diaphragm muscle fibers comprise all fiber types. Thus, diaphragm motor units display substantial differences in contractile and fatigue properties, but importantly, properties of the motoneuron and muscle fibers within a motor unit are matched. As in other skeletal muscles, diaphragm motor units are recruited in order such that motor units that display greater fatigue resistance are recruited earlier and more often than more fatigable motor units. The properties of the motor unit population are critical determinants of the function of a skeletal muscle across the range of possible motor tasks. Accordingly, fatigue-resistant motor units are sufficient to generate the forces necessary for ventilatory behaviors, whereas more fatigable units are only activated during expulsive behaviors important for airway clearance. Neuromotor control of diaphragm motor units may reflect selective inputs from distinct pattern generators distributed according to the motor unit properties necessary to accomplish these different motor tasks. In contrast, widely distributed inputs to phrenic motoneurons from various pattern generators (e.g., for breathing, coughing, or vocalization) would dictate recruitment order based on intrinsic electrophysiological properties. © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

HESP: Instrument control, calibration and pipeline development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anantha, Ch.; Roy, Jayashree; Mahesh, P. K.; Parihar, P. S.; Sangal, A. K.; Sriram, S.; Anand, M. N.; Anupama, G. C.; Giridhar, S.; Prabhu, T. P.; Sivarani, T.; Sundararajan, M. S.

Hanle Echelle SPectrograph (HESP) is a fibre-fed, high resolution (R = 30,000 and 60,000) spectrograph being developed for the 2m HCT telescope at IAO, Hanle. The major components of the instrument are a) Cassegrain unit b) Spectrometer instrument. An instrument control system interacting with a guiding unit at Cassegrain interface as well as handling spectrograph functions is being developed. An on-axis auto-guiding using the spill-over angular ring around the input pinhole is also being developed. The stellar light from the Cassegrain unit is taken to the spectrograph using an optical fiber which is being characterized for spectral transmission, focal ratio degradation and scrambling properties. The design of the thermal enclosure and thermal control for the spectrograph housing is presented. A data pipeline for the entire Echelle spectral reduction is being developed. We also plan to implement an instrument physical model based calibration into the main data pipeline and in the maintenance and quality control operations.

Randomised factorial mixed method pilot study of aerobic and resistance exercise in haemodialysis patients: DIALY-SIZE!

PubMed Central

Thompson, Stephanie; Klarenbach, Scott; Molzahn, Anita; Lloyd, Anita; Gabrys, Iwona; Haykowsky, Mark; Tonelli, Marcello

2016-01-01

Objectives For people with end-stage renal disease requiring haemodialysis, exercise can improve aspects of quality of life (QoL). However, the relative benefits and risks of different types of exercise in this population are unknown. Therefore, this pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a main study evaluating the efficacy of cycling and resistance exercise each performed during the haemodialysis treatment on QoL. Methods In this factorial (2×2) pilot trial, 31 haemodialysis patients were randomised to cycling, resistance, cycling and resistance, or an attention control. Feasibility was defined a priori by criteria on recruitment, fidelity to the protocol and patient response to the intervention. To better understand feasibility, we conducted interviews with dialysis unit staff and trial participants. As secondary outcomes, we estimated the main effect of cycling and weights each compared with control on QoL, physical function and strength. Findings We exceeded the target accrual of 28 participants over 12 weeks. Irrespective of exercise group allocation, adherence was high; of the 1038 training sessions offered, 87% were initiated and over 80% of exercise sessions were performed as per protocol. Progression based on perceived exertion, individual instruction and interactions with the kinesiologist facilitated acceptability across exercise groups. Using an attention control, measures of contamination and attrition were low. Important barriers to unit staff readiness for the intervention were initial safety and workflow concerns, unit workload and onerous data collection. Secondary outcomes were not statistically significant. Adverse events were low and did not increase with a higher volume of exercise. Conclusions The main study is feasible with minor modifications. In addition to practical assistance, involvement from unit staff could increase patient participation and improve trial implementation. Strategies to increase acceptability of the intervention for staff include improving workflow integration and using a prestudy demonstration phase to introduce the intervention. Trial registration number NCT02234232. Results PMID:27601500

Recruitment of motor units in the medial gastrocnemius muscle during human quiet standing: is recruitment intermittent? What triggers recruitment?

PubMed Central

Loram, Ian D.; Muceli, Silvia; Merletti, Roberto; Farina, Dario

2012-01-01

The recruitment and the rate of discharge of motor units are determinants of muscle force. Within a motoneuron pool, recruitment and rate coding of individual motor units might be controlled independently, depending on the circumstances. In this study, we tested whether, during human quiet standing, the force of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) muscle is predominantly controlled by recruitment or rate coding. If MG control during standing was mainly due to recruitment, then we further asked what the trigger mechanism is. Is it determined internally, or is it related to body kinematics? While seven healthy subjects stood quietly, intramuscular electromyograms were recorded from the MG muscle with three pairs of wire electrodes. The number of active motor units and their mean discharge rate were compared for different sway velocities and positions. Motor unit discharges occurred more frequently when the body swayed faster and forward (Pearson R = 0.63; P < 0.0001). This higher likelihood of observing motor unit potentials was explained chiefly by the recruitment of additional units. During forward body shifts, the median number of units detected increased from 3 to 11 (P < 0.0001), whereas the discharge rate changed from 8 ± 1.1 (mean ± SD) to 10 ± 0.9 pulses/s (P = 0.001). Strikingly, motor units did not discharge continuously throughout standing. They were recruited within individual, forward sways and intermittently, with a modal rate of two recruitments per second. This modal rate is consistent with previous circumstantial evidence relating the control of standing to an intrinsic, higher level planning process. PMID:21994258

Recruitment of motor units in the medial gastrocnemius muscle during human quiet standing: is recruitment intermittent? What triggers recruitment?

PubMed

Vieira, Taian M M; Loram, Ian D; Muceli, Silvia; Merletti, Roberto; Farina, Dario

2012-01-01

The recruitment and the rate of discharge of motor units are determinants of muscle force. Within a motoneuron pool, recruitment and rate coding of individual motor units might be controlled independently, depending on the circumstances. In this study, we tested whether, during human quiet standing, the force of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) muscle is predominantly controlled by recruitment or rate coding. If MG control during standing was mainly due to recruitment, then we further asked what the trigger mechanism is. Is it determined internally, or is it related to body kinematics? While seven healthy subjects stood quietly, intramuscular electromyograms were recorded from the MG muscle with three pairs of wire electrodes. The number of active motor units and their mean discharge rate were compared for different sway velocities and positions. Motor unit discharges occurred more frequently when the body swayed faster and forward (Pearson R = 0.63; P < 0.0001). This higher likelihood of observing motor unit potentials was explained chiefly by the recruitment of additional units. During forward body shifts, the median number of units detected increased from 3 to 11 (P < 0.0001), whereas the discharge rate changed from 8 ± 1.1 (mean ± SD) to 10 ± 0.9 pulses/s (P = 0.001). Strikingly, motor units did not discharge continuously throughout standing. They were recruited within individual, forward sways and intermittently, with a modal rate of two recruitments per second. This modal rate is consistent with previous circumstantial evidence relating the control of standing to an intrinsic, higher level planning process.

Stator for a rotating electrical machine having multiple control windings

DOEpatents

Shah, Manoj R.; Lewandowski, Chad R.

2001-07-17

A rotating electric machine is provided which includes multiple independent control windings for compensating for rotor imbalances and for levitating/centering the rotor. The multiple independent control windings are placed at different axial locations along the rotor to oppose forces created by imbalances at different axial locations along the rotor. The multiple control windings can also be used to levitate/center the rotor with a relatively small magnetic field per unit area since the rotor and/or the main power winding provides the bias field.

Quality in the Professions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Becher, Tony

1999-01-01

Reviews quality assurance and quality control procedures of the main requirements affecting United Kingdom medicine, pharmacy, law, accountancy, architecture, and structural engineering. Provides a taxonomy of different forms of quality maintenance and offers comparative material which may be of interest and relevance to academic readers. (EV)

The afocal telescope of the ESA ARIEL mission: analysis of the layout

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Da Deppo, Vania; Middleton, Kevin; Focardi, Mauro; Morgante, Gianluca; Corso, Alain Jody; Pace, Emanuele; Claudi, Riccardo; Micela, Giuseppina

2017-09-01

ARIEL (Atmospheric Remote-sensing Infrared Exoplanet Large-survey) is one of the three present candidates as an M4 ESA mission to be launched in 2026. During its foreseen 3.5 years operation, it will observe spectroscopically in the infrared a large population of known transiting planets in the neighborhood of the Solar System. The aim is to enable a deep understanding of the physics and chemistry of these exoplanets. ARIEL is based on a 1-m class telescope ahead of a suite of instruments: two spectrometer channels covering the band 1.95 to 7.8 μm and four photometric channels (two wide and two narrow band) in the range 0.5 to 1.9 μm. The ARIEL optical design is conceived as a fore-module common afocal telescope that will feed the spectrometer and photometric channels. The telescope optical design is based on an eccentric pupil two-mirror classic Cassegrain configuration coupled to a tertiary paraboloidal mirror. The temperature of the primary mirror (M1) will be monitored and finely tuned by means of an active thermal control system based on thermistors and heaters. They will be switched on and off to maintain the M1 temperature within ±1 K thanks to a proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller implemented within the Telescope Control Unit (TCU), a Payload electronics subsystem mainly in charge of the active thermal control of the two detectors owning to the spectrometer. TCU will collect the housekeeping data of the controlled subsystems and will forward them to the spacecraft (S/C) by means of the Instrument Control Unit (ICU), the main Payload's electronic Unit linked to the S/C On Board Computer (OBC).

Performance of a High-Fidelity 4kW-Class Engineering Model PPU and Integration with HiVHAc System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pinero, Luis R.; Kamhawi, Hani; Shilo, Vlad

2016-01-01

The High Voltage Hall Accelerator (HiVHAc) propulsion system consists of a thruster, power processing unit (PPU), and propellant feed system. An engineering model PPU was developed by Colorado Power Electronics, Inc. funded by NASA's Small Business Innovative Research Program. This PPU uses an innovative 3-phase resonant converter to deliver 4 kW of discharge power over a wide range of input and output voltage conditions. The PPU includes a digital control interface unit that automatically controls the PPU and a xenon flow control module (XFCM). It interfaces with a control computer to receive highlevel commands and relay telemetry through a MIL-STD-1553B interface. The EM PPU was thoroughly tested at GRC for functionality and performance at temperature limits and demonstrated total efficiencies a high as 95 percent. Integrated testing of the unit was performed with the HiVHAc thruster and the XFCM to demonstrate closed-loop control of discharge current with anode flow. Initiation of the main discharge and power throttling were also successfully demonstrated and discharge oscillations were characterized.

KSC-08pd1650

NASA Image and Video Library

2008-06-10

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – Auxiliary power unit 3, or APU3, is ready for installation in space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The auxiliary power unit is a hydrazine-fueled, turbine-driven power unit that generates mechanical shaft power to drive a hydraulic pump that produces pressure for the orbiter's hydraulic system. There are three separate APUs, three hydraulic pumps and three hydraulic systems, located in the aft fuselage of the orbiter. When the three auxiliary power units are started five minutes before lift-off, the hydraulic systems are used to position the three main engines for activation, control various propellant valves on the engines and position orbiter aerosurfaces. The auxiliary power units are not operated after the first orbital maneuvering system thrusting period because hydraulic power is no longer required. One power unit is operated briefly one day before deorbit to support checkout of the orbiter flight control system. One auxiliary power unit is restarted before the deorbit thrusting period. The two remaining units are started after the deorbit thrusting maneuver and operate continuously through entry, landing and landing rollout. On STS-126, Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

A coordinated MIMO control design for a power plant using improved sliding mode controller.

PubMed

Ataei, Mohammad; Hooshmand, Rahmat-Allah; Samani, Siavash Golmohammadi

2014-03-01

For the participation of the steam power plants in regulating the network frequency, boilers and turbines should be co-ordinately controlled in addition to the base load productions. Lack of coordinated control over boiler-turbine may lead to instability; oscillation in producing power and boiler parameters; reduction in the reliability of the unit; and inflicting thermodynamic tension on devices. This paper proposes a boiler-turbine coordinated multivariable control system based on improved sliding mode controller (ISMC). The system controls two main boiler-turbine parameters i.e., the turbine revolution and superheated steam pressure of the boiler output. For this purpose, a comprehensive model of the system including complete and exact description of the subsystems is extracted. The parameters of this model are determined according to our case study that is the 320MW unit of Islam-Abad power plant in Isfahan/Iran. The ISMC method is simulated on the power plant and its performance is compared with the related real PI (proportional-integral) controllers which have been used in this unit. The simulation results show the capability of the proposed controller system in controlling local network frequency and superheated steam pressure in the presence of load variations and disturbances of boiler. © 2013 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Design and optimize of 3-axis filament winding machine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Quanjin, Ma; Rejab, M. R. M.; Idris, M. S.; Bachtiar, B.; Siregar, J. P.; Harith, M. N.

2017-10-01

Filament winding technique is developed as the primary process for composite cylindrical structures fabrication at low cost. Fibres are wound on a rotating mandrel by a filament winding machine where resin impregnated fibres pass through a pay-out eye. This paper aims to develop and optimize a 3-axis, lightweight, practical, efficient, portable filament winding machine to satisfy the customer demand, which can fabricate pipes and round shape cylinders with resins. There are 3 main units on the 3-axis filament winding machine, which are the rotary unit, the delivery unit and control system unit. Comparison with previous existing filament winding machines in the factory, it has 3 degrees of freedom and can fabricate more complex shape specimens based on the mandrel shape and particular control system. The machine has been designed and fabricated on 3 axes movements with control system. The x-axis is for movement of the carriage, the y-axis is the rotation of mandrel and the z-axis is the movement of the pay-out eye. Cylindrical specimens with different dimensions and winding angles were produced. 3-axis automated filament winding machine has been successfully designed with simple control system.

Higher pharmaceutical public expenditure after direct price control: improved access or induced demand? The Colombian case.

PubMed

Prada, Sergio I; Soto, Victoria E; Andia, Tatiana S; Vaca, Claudia P; Morales, Álvaro A; Márquez, Sergio R; Gaviria, Alejandro

2018-01-01

High pharmaceutical expenditure is one of the main concerns for policymakers worldwide. In Colombia, a middle-income country, outpatient prescription represents over 10% of total health expenditure in the mandatory benefits package (POS), and close to 90% in the complementary government fund (No POS). In order to control expenditure, since 2011, the Ministry of Health introduced price caps on inpatient drugs reimbursements by active ingredient. By 2013, more than 400 different products, covering 80% of public pharmaceutical expenditure were controlled. This paper investigates the effects of the Colombian policy efforts to control expenditure by controlling prices. Using SISMED data, the official database for prices and quantities sold in the domestic market, we estimate a Laspeyres price index for 90 relevant markets in the period 2011-2015, and, then, we estimate real pharmaceutical expenditure. Results show that, after direct price controls were enacted, price inflation decreased almost - 43%, but real pharmaceutical expenditure almost doubled due mainly to an increase in units sold. Such disproportionate increase in units sold maybe attributable to better access to drugs due to lower prices, and/or to an increase in marketing efforts by the pharmaceutical industry to maintain profits. We conclude that pricing interventions should be implemented along with a strong market monitoring to prevent market distortions such as inappropriate and unnecessary drug use.

Design, construction, and testing of a five active axes magnetic bearing system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Delprete, Cristiana; Genta, Giancarlo; Carabelli, Stefano

1994-01-01

A high speed electric spindle based on active electromagnetic suspension technology has been designed, built, and tested. The main goal of the research work was the construction of a highly modular unit which can be used for teaching and research purposes. The design of the electromechanical components and of the control unit is described in detail, together with the characterization tests performed on the various subsystems. A description of the preliminary tests on the unit, conducted at speeds not in excess of the first deformation critical speed of the rotor, concludes the work.

SMART: The Future of Spaceflight Avionics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alhorn, Dean C.; Howard, David E.

2010-01-01

A novel avionics approach is necessary to meet the future needs of low cost space and lunar missions that require low mass and low power electronics. The current state of the art for avionics systems are centralized electronic units that perform the required spacecraft functions. These electronic units are usually custom-designed for each application and the approach compels avionics designers to have in-depth system knowledge before design can commence. The overall design, development, test and evaluation (DDT&E) cycle for this conventional approach requires long delivery times for space flight electronics and is very expensive. The Small Multi-purpose Advanced Reconfigurable Technology (SMART) concept is currently being developed to overcome the limitations of traditional avionics design. The SMART concept is based upon two multi-functional modules that can be reconfigured to drive and sense a variety of mechanical and electrical components. The SMART units are key to a distributed avionics architecture whereby the modules are located close to or right at the desired application point. The drive module, SMART-D, receives commands from the main computer and controls the spacecraft mechanisms and devices with localized feedback. The sensor module, SMART-S, is used to sense the environmental sensors and offload local limit checking from the main computer. There are numerous benefits that are realized by implementing the SMART system. Localized sensor signal conditioning electronics reduces signal loss and overall wiring mass. Localized drive electronics increase control bandwidth and minimize time lags for critical functions. These benefits in-turn reduce the main processor overhead functions. Since SMART units are standard flight qualified units, DDT&E is reduced and system design can commence much earlier in the design cycle. Increased production scale lowers individual piece part cost and using standard modules also reduces non-recurring costs. The benefit list continues, but the overall message is already evident: the SMART concept is an evolution in spacecraft avionics. SMART devices have the potential to change the design paradigm for future satellites, spacecraft and even commercial applications.

Multivariate statistical process control of a continuous pharmaceutical twin-screw granulation and fluid bed drying process.

PubMed

Silva, A F; Sarraguça, M C; Fonteyne, M; Vercruysse, J; De Leersnyder, F; Vanhoorne, V; Bostijn, N; Verstraeten, M; Vervaet, C; Remon, J P; De Beer, T; Lopes, J A

2017-08-07

A multivariate statistical process control (MSPC) strategy was developed for the monitoring of the ConsiGma™-25 continuous tablet manufacturing line. Thirty-five logged variables encompassing three major units, being a twin screw high shear granulator, a fluid bed dryer and a product control unit, were used to monitor the process. The MSPC strategy was based on principal component analysis of data acquired under normal operating conditions using a series of four process runs. Runs with imposed disturbances in the dryer air flow and temperature, in the granulator barrel temperature, speed and liquid mass flow and in the powder dosing unit mass flow were utilized to evaluate the model's monitoring performance. The impact of the imposed deviations to the process continuity was also evaluated using Hotelling's T 2 and Q residuals statistics control charts. The influence of the individual process variables was assessed by analyzing contribution plots at specific time points. Results show that the imposed disturbances were all detected in both control charts. Overall, the MSPC strategy was successfully developed and applied. Additionally, deviations not associated with the imposed changes were detected, mainly in the granulator barrel temperature control. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Design of the image browser for PACS image workstation].

PubMed

Li, Feng; Zhou, He-Qin

2006-09-01

The design of PACS image workstation based on DICOM3.0 is introduced in the paper, then the designing method of the PACS image browser based on the control system theory is presented,focusing on two main units:DICOM analyzer and the information mapping transformer.

ENEL power generation and transmission control (PGTC) system

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

Galli, F.; Schiavi

1986-08-01

The ENEL (Italian State Power Board) PGTC System has a multi-level architecture which consists of a National Control Center (NCC), eight Area Control Centers (ACC), and Remote Terminal Units (RTU). Remote Control Centers (RCC), representing the third hierarchical level of the control system, will be integrated into the system beginning in 1987. This paper describes the structure of the PGTC system from the remote stations up to the NCC and the main control functions. The method of implementation, the organizational and managerial problems that were faced in the development of the project are also described.

Scaling properties of European research units

PubMed Central

Jamtveit, Bjørn; Jettestuen, Espen; Mathiesen, Joachim

2009-01-01

A quantitative characterization of the scale-dependent features of research units may provide important insight into how such units are organized and how they grow. The relative importance of top-down versus bottom-up controls on their growth may be revealed by their scaling properties. Here we show that the number of support staff in Scandinavian research units, ranging in size from 20 to 7,800 staff members, is related to the number of academic staff by a power law. The scaling exponent of ≈1.30 is broadly consistent with a simple hierarchical model of the university organization. Similar scaling behavior between small and large research units with a wide range of ambitions and strategies argues against top-down control of the growth. Top-down effects, and externally imposed effects from changing political environments, can be observed as fluctuations around the main trend. The observed scaling law implies that cost-benefit arguments for merging research institutions into larger and larger units may have limited validity unless the productivity per academic staff and/or the quality of the products are considerably higher in larger institutions. Despite the hierarchical structure of most large-scale research units in Europe, the network structures represented by the academic component of such units are strongly antihierarchical and suboptimal for efficient communication within individual units. PMID:19625626

A Distributed Synchronization and Timing System on the EAST Tokamak

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Jiarong; Wu, Yichun; Shu, Yantai

2008-08-01

A key requirement for the EAST distributed control system (EASTDCS) is time synchronization to an accuracy of <1 mus. In 2006 a Distributed Synchronization and Timing System (DSTS) was set up, which is based on the ATmega128 AVR microcontroller and the Nut/OS embedded Real Time Operating System (RTOS). The DSTS provides the control and the data acquisition systems with reference clocks (0.01 Hz 10 MHz) and delayed trigger times ( 1 mus 4294 s). These are produced by a Core Module Unit (CMU) connected by optical fibres to many Local Synchronized Node Units (LSNU). The fibres provide immunity from electrical noise and are of equal length to match clock and trigger delays between systems. This paper describes the architecture of the DSTS on the EAST tokamak and provides an overview of the characteristics of the main and local units.

Integration of Variable Speed Pumped Hydro Storage in Automatic Generation Control Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fulgêncio, N.; Moreira, C.; Silva, B.

2017-04-01

Pumped storage power (PSP) plants are expected to be an important player in modern electrical power systems when dealing with increasing shares of new renewable energies (NRE) such as solar or wind power. The massive penetration of NRE and consequent replacement of conventional synchronous units will significantly affect the controllability of the system. In order to evaluate the capability of variable speed PSP plants participation in the frequency restoration reserve (FRR) provision, taking into account the expected performance in terms of improved ramp response capability, a comparison with conventional hydro units is presented. In order to address this issue, a three area test network was considered, as well as the corresponding automatic generation control (AGC) systems, being responsible for re-dispatching the generation units to re-establish power interchange between areas as well as the system nominal frequency. The main issue under analysis in this paper is related to the benefits of the fast response of variable speed PSP with respect to its capability of providing fast power balancing in a control area.

PC-based control unit for a head-mounted operating microscope for augmented-reality visualization in surgical navigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Figl, Michael; Birkfellner, Wolfgang; Watzinger, Franz; Wanschitz, Felix; Hummel, Johann; Hanel, Rudolf A.; Ewers, Rolf; Bergmann, Helmar

2002-05-01

Two main concepts of Head Mounted Displays (HMD) for augmented reality (AR) visualization exist, the optical and video-see through type. Several research groups have pursued both approaches for utilizing HMDs for computer aided surgery. While the hardware requirements for a video see through HMD to achieve acceptable time delay and frame rate seem to be enormous the clinical acceptance of such a device is doubtful from a practical point of view. Starting from previous work in displaying additional computer-generated graphics in operating microscopes, we have adapted a miniature head mounted operating microscope for AR by integrating two very small computer displays. To calibrate the projection parameters of this so called Varioscope AR we have used Tsai's Algorithm for camera calibration. Connection to a surgical navigation system was performed by defining an open interface to the control unit of the Varioscope AR. The control unit consists of a standard PC with a dual head graphics adapter to render and display the desired augmentation of the scene. We connected this control unit to a computer aided surgery (CAS) system by the TCP/IP interface. In this paper we present the control unit for the HMD and its software design. We tested two different optical tracking systems, the Flashpoint (Image Guided Technologies, Boulder, CO), which provided about 10 frames per second, and the Polaris (Northern Digital, Ontario, Canada) which provided at least 30 frames per second, both with a time delay of one frame.

Optimized 4-bit Quantum Reversible Arithmetic Logic Unit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ayyoub, Slimani; Achour, Benslama

2017-08-01

Reversible logic has received a great attention in the recent years due to its ability to reduce the power dissipation. The main purposes of designing reversible logic are to decrease quantum cost, depth of the circuits and the number of garbage outputs. The arithmetic logic unit (ALU) is an important part of central processing unit (CPU) as the execution unit. This paper presents a complete design of a new reversible arithmetic logic unit (ALU) that can be part of a programmable reversible computing device such as a quantum computer. The proposed ALU based on a reversible low power control unit and small performance parameters full adder named double Peres gates. The presented ALU can produce the largest number (28) of arithmetic and logic functions and have the smallest number of quantum cost and delay compared with existing designs.

[Monitoring medication errors in personalised dispensing using the Sentinel Surveillance System method].

PubMed

Pérez-Cebrián, M; Font-Noguera, I; Doménech-Moral, L; Bosó-Ribelles, V; Romero-Boyero, P; Poveda-Andrés, J L

2011-01-01

To assess the efficacy of a new quality control strategy based on daily randomised sampling and monitoring a Sentinel Surveillance System (SSS) medication cart, in order to identify medication errors and their origin at different levels of the process. Prospective quality control study with one year follow-up. A SSS medication cart was randomly selected once a week and double-checked before dispensing medication. Medication errors were recorded before it was taken to the relevant hospital ward. Information concerning complaints after receiving medication and 24-hour monitoring were also noted. Type and origin error data were assessed by a Unit Dose Quality Control Group, which proposed relevant improvement measures. Thirty-four SSS carts were assessed, including 5130 medication lines and 9952 dispensed doses, corresponding to 753 patients. Ninety erroneous lines (1.8%) and 142 mistaken doses (1.4%) were identified at the Pharmacy Department. The most frequent error was dose duplication (38%) and its main cause inappropriate management and forgetfulness (69%). Fifty medication complaints (6.6% of patients) were mainly due to new treatment at admission (52%), and 41 (0.8% of all medication lines), did not completely match the prescription (0.6% lines) as recorded by the Pharmacy Department. Thirty-seven (4.9% of patients) medication complaints due to changes at admission and 32 matching errors (0.6% medication lines) were recorded. The main cause also was inappropriate management and forgetfulness (24%). The simultaneous recording of incidences due to complaints and new medication coincided in 33.3%. In addition, 433 (4.3%) of dispensed doses were returned to the Pharmacy Department. After the Unit Dose Quality Control Group conducted their feedback analysis, 64 improvement measures for Pharmacy Department nurses, 37 for pharmacists, and 24 for the hospital ward were introduced. The SSS programme has proven to be useful as a quality control strategy to identify Unit Dose Distribution System errors at initial, intermediate and final stages of the process, improving the involvement of the Pharmacy Department and ward nurses. Copyright © 2009 SEFH. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

KSC-08pd1652

NASA Image and Video Library

2008-06-10

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility bay No. 2, technicians begin installation of an auxiliary power unit 3, or APU3, in space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The auxiliary power unit is a hydrazine-fueled, turbine-driven power unit that generates mechanical shaft power to drive a hydraulic pump that produces pressure for the orbiter's hydraulic system. There are three separate APUs, three hydraulic pumps and three hydraulic systems, located in the aft fuselage of the orbiter. When the three auxiliary power units are started five minutes before lift-off, the hydraulic systems are used to position the three main engines for activation, control various propellant valves on the engines and position orbiter aerosurfaces. The auxiliary power units are not operated after the first orbital maneuvering system thrusting period because hydraulic power is no longer required. One power unit is operated briefly one day before deorbit to support checkout of the orbiter flight control system. One auxiliary power unit is restarted before the deorbit thrusting period. The two remaining units are started after the deorbit thrusting maneuver and operate continuously through entry, landing and landing rollout. On STS-126, Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-08pd1651

NASA Image and Video Library

2008-06-10

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility bay No. 2, technicians begin installation of an auxiliary power unit 3, or APU3, in space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The auxiliary power unit is a hydrazine-fueled, turbine-driven power unit that generates mechanical shaft power to drive a hydraulic pump that produces pressure for the orbiter's hydraulic system. There are three separate APUs, three hydraulic pumps and three hydraulic systems, located in the aft fuselage of the orbiter. When the three auxiliary power units are started five minutes before lift-off, the hydraulic systems are used to position the three main engines for activation, control various propellant valves on the engines and position orbiter aerosurfaces. The auxiliary power units are not operated after the first orbital maneuvering system thrusting period because hydraulic power is no longer required. One power unit is operated briefly one day before deorbit to support checkout of the orbiter flight control system. One auxiliary power unit is restarted before the deorbit thrusting period. The two remaining units are started after the deorbit thrusting maneuver and operate continuously through entry, landing and landing rollout. On STS-126, Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-08pd1654

NASA Image and Video Library

2008-06-10

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility bay No. 2, auxiliary power unit 3, or APU3, is in place on space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The auxiliary power unit is a hydrazine-fueled, turbine-driven power unit that generates mechanical shaft power to drive a hydraulic pump that produces pressure for the orbiter's hydraulic system. There are three separate APUs, three hydraulic pumps and three hydraulic systems, located in the aft fuselage of the orbiter. When the three auxiliary power units are started five minutes before lift-off, the hydraulic systems are used to position the three main engines for activation, control various propellant valves on the engines and position orbiter aerosurfaces. The auxiliary power units are not operated after the first orbital maneuvering system thrusting period because hydraulic power is no longer required. One power unit is operated briefly one day before deorbit to support checkout of the orbiter flight control system. One auxiliary power unit is restarted before the deorbit thrusting period. The two remaining units are started after the deorbit thrusting maneuver and operate continuously through entry, landing and landing rollout. On STS-126, Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

KSC-08pd1653

NASA Image and Video Library

2008-06-10

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – In Orbiter Processing Facility bay No. 2, technicians install auxiliary power unit 3, or APU3, in space shuttle Endeavour for the STS-126 mission. The auxiliary power unit is a hydrazine-fueled, turbine-driven power unit that generates mechanical shaft power to drive a hydraulic pump that produces pressure for the orbiter's hydraulic system. There are three separate APUs, three hydraulic pumps and three hydraulic systems, located in the aft fuselage of the orbiter. When the three auxiliary power units are started five minutes before lift-off, the hydraulic systems are used to position the three main engines for activation, control various propellant valves on the engines and position orbiter aerosurfaces. The auxiliary power units are not operated after the first orbital maneuvering system thrusting period because hydraulic power is no longer required. One power unit is operated briefly one day before deorbit to support checkout of the orbiter flight control system. One auxiliary power unit is restarted before the deorbit thrusting period. The two remaining units are started after the deorbit thrusting maneuver and operate continuously through entry, landing and landing rollout. On STS-126, Endeavour will deliver a multi-purpose logistics module to the International Space Station. Launch is targeted for Nov. 10. Photo credit: NASA/Kim Shiflett

Automatic humidification system to support the assessment of food drying processes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ortiz Hernández, B. D.; Carreño Olejua, A. R.; Castellanos Olarte, J. M.

2016-07-01

This work shows the main features of an automatic humidification system to provide drying air that match environmental conditions of different climate zones. This conditioned air is then used to assess the drying process of different agro-industrial products at the Automation and Control for Agro-industrial Processes Laboratory of the Pontifical Bolivarian University of Bucaramanga, Colombia. The automatic system allows creating and improving control strategies to supply drying air under specified conditions of temperature and humidity. The development of automatic routines to control and acquire real time data was made possible by the use of robust control systems and suitable instrumentation. The signals are read and directed to a controller memory where they are scaled and transferred to a memory unit. Using the IP address is possible to access data to perform supervision tasks. One important characteristic of this automatic system is the Dynamic Data Exchange Server (DDE) to allow direct communication between the control unit and the computer used to build experimental curves.

Overview of geology and tectonic evolution of the Baikal-Tuva area.

PubMed

Gladkochub, Dmitry; Donskaya, Tatiana

2009-01-01

This chapter provides the results of geological investigations of the main tectonic units of the Baikal-Tuva region (southwestern part of Siberia) during the last decades: the ancient Siberian craton and adjacent areas of the Central Asian Orogenic belt. In the framework of these main units we describe small-scale blocks (terranes) with focus on details of their inner structure and evolution through time. As well as describing the geology and tectonics of the area studied, we give an overview of underwater sediments, neotectonics, and some phenomena of history and development of the Baikal, Khubsugul, Chargytai, and Tore-Chol Lakes basins of the Baikal-Tuva region. It is suggested that these lakes' evolution was controlled by neotectonic processes, modern seismic activity, and global climate changes.

Procedure and information displays in advanced nuclear control rooms: experimental evaluation of an integrated design.

PubMed

Chen, Yue; Gao, Qin; Song, Fei; Li, Zhizhong; Wang, Yufan

2017-08-01

In the main control rooms of nuclear power plants, operators frequently have to switch between procedure displays and system information displays. In this study, we proposed an operation-unit-based integrated design, which combines the two displays to facilitate the synthesis of information. We grouped actions that complete a single goal into operation units and showed these operation units on the displays of system states. In addition, we used different levels of visual salience to highlight the current unit and provided a list of execution history records. A laboratory experiment, with 42 students performing a simulated procedure to deal with unexpected high pressuriser level, was conducted to compare this design against an action-based integrated design and the existing separated-displays design. The results indicate that our operation-unit-based integrated design yields the best performance in terms of time and completion rate and helped more participants to detect unexpected system failures. Practitioner Summary: In current nuclear control rooms, operators frequently have to switch between procedure and system information displays. We developed an integrated design that incorporates procedure information into system displays. A laboratory study showed that the proposed design significantly improved participants' performance and increased the probability of detecting unexpected system failures.

Barriers to the sustainability of an intervention designed to improve patient engagement within NHS mental health rehabilitation units: a qualitative study nested within a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Lean, Melanie; Leavey, Gerard; Killaspy, Helen; Green, Nicholas; Harrison, Isobel; Cook, Sarah; Craig, Thomas; Holloway, Frank; Arbuthnott, Maurice; King, Michael

2015-09-02

We undertook a cluster randomised controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of a staff training intervention to improve patient engagement in activities in inpatient mental health rehabilitation units. Concurrently, we undertook a qualitative study to investigate the experiences of staff within the intervention units and the contextual issues that may have influenced the effectiveness of the intervention. We conducted focus groups with staff working in the inpatient units that received the intervention, sampled using a maximum variation strategy. The intervention was accepted by staff. However, the skills gained, and changes to the unit's processes and structures that were agreed with the intervention team were not sustained after they left. The main reasons for this were a) external factors (economic recession, resource limitations); b) organisation level factors (lack of senior staff support; competing priorities); c) limitations of the intervention itself (length of intensive training period; reinforcement of skills). This study illustrates some of the inter-related factors which operate at different levels within and outside of NHS organisations that may impact on the success of complex interventions. These factors need to be considered when designing interventions to ensure adequate buy-in from senior staff. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN25898179 (Registered 23 April 2010).

System for Anomaly and Failure Detection (SAFD) system development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oreilly, D.

1992-01-01

This task specified developing the hardware and software necessary to implement the System for Anomaly and Failure Detection (SAFD) algorithm, developed under Technology Test Bed (TTB) Task 21, on the TTB engine stand. This effort involved building two units; one unit to be installed in the Block II Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) Hardware Simulation Lab (HSL) at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC), and one unit to be installed at the TTB engine stand. Rocketdyne personnel from the HSL performed the task. The SAFD algorithm was developed as an improvement over the current redline system used in the Space Shuttle Main Engine Controller (SSMEC). Simulation tests and execution against previous hot fire tests demonstrated that the SAFD algorithm can detect engine failure as much as tens of seconds before the redline system recognized the failure. Although the current algorithm only operates during steady state conditions (engine not throttling), work is underway to expand the algorithm to work during transient condition.

Model Predictive Control Based on System Re-Identification (MPC-SRI) to Control Bio-H2 Production from Biomass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wahid, A.; Taqwallah, H. M. H.

2018-03-01

Compressors and a steam reformer are the important units in biohydrogen from biomass plant. The compressors are useful for achieving high-pressure operating conditions while the steam reformer is the main process to produce H2 gas. To control them, in this research used a model predictive control (MPC) expected to have better controller performance than conventional controllers. Because of the explicit model empowerment in MPC, obtaining a better model is the main objective before employing MPC. The common way to get the empirical model is through the identification system, so that obtained a first-order plus dead-time (FOPDT) model. This study has already improved that way since used the system re-identification (SRI) based on closed loop mode. Based on this method the results of the compressor pressure control and temperature control of steam reformer were that MPC based on system re-identification (MPC-SRI) has better performance than MPC without system re-identification (MPCWSRI) and the proportional-integral (PI) controller, by % improvement of 73% against MPCWSRI and 75% against the PI controller.

Volcanic nutrient inputs and trophic state of Lake Caviahue, Patagonia, Argentina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pedrozo, Fernando L.; Temporetti, Pedro F.; Beamud, Guadalupe; Diaz, Mónica M.

2008-12-01

The strategies for eutrophication control, remediation, and policy management are often defined for neutral to alkaline freshwater systems, as they are most suitable for human use. The influence of nutrients on eutrophication in a naturally-acidic lake is poorly known. The main purpose of the present work is to evaluate the significance of volcanic nutrients in the control of the trophic state of the acidic Lake Caviahue, located at North Patagonia, Argentina. Acidic water systems were most studied on artificial acidified lakes, such as mining lakes in Germany or pit lakes in the United States. Lake Caviahue received a very high P load (42-192 ton P/yr) and low N load (14 ton N/yr), mainly as ammonium with quite low N:P ratios (< 1.0). The magmatic activity of the Copahue volcano represents the main natural contribution of nutrients and acidity to the Lake Caviahue. The lake is oligotrophic in terms of CHLa. Neither the transparency nor the nutrient, dissolved or particulate, contents are to date representative of the trophic state of the lake. High P loads do not imply the eutrophication of the lake. We suggest that nitrogen and not phosphorus represents the key control nutrient in volcanically acidified lakes as TON was better related to CHLa observed (0.13-0.36 mg/m 3) in the lake. The pH increased around one unit (pH 2.0-3.0) during the last five years suggesting that the lake has not yet returned to a stable state.

Challenges for the Baltic Sea Regional Stability

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

statements show that Russia still has ambitions to expand her influence and control over the Baltic Sea region. Reduction of U.S. military presence in Europe...combat support units during 2013-2015, such as A-10 squadron at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany, the 603rd Air Control Squadron at Aviano Air Base in ...other hand, such continued cooperation in the period of defense austerity would be the main option for sharing and reaching cost effectiveness

MODULAR CORE UNITS FOR A NEUTRONIC REACTOR

DOEpatents

Gage, J.F. Jr.; Sherer, D.B.

1964-04-01

A modular core unit for use in a nuclear reactor is described. Many identical core modules can be placed next to each other to make up a complete core. Such a module includes a cylinder of moderator material surrounding a fuel- containing re-entrant coolant channel. The re-entrant channel provides for the circulation of coolant such as liquid sodium from one end of the core unit, through the fuel region, and back out through the same end as it entered. Thermal insulation surrounds the moderator exterior wall inducing heat to travel inwardly to the coolant channel. Spaces between units may be used to accommodate control rods and support structure, which may be cooled by a secondary gas coolant, independently of the main coolant. (AEC)

[Randomized, controlled clinical trials with observational follow-up investigations for evaluating efficacy of antihyperglycaemic treatment. I. Main results of the studies].

PubMed

Jermendy, György

2018-04-01

The effect of antihyperglycaemic (antidiabetic) treatment on the late diabetic complications is one of the most important research areas in clinical diabetology. The relationship between glycaemic control and late micro- and macrovascular complications was highlighted by the results of the DCCT (Diabetes Control and Complications Trial) with type 1 and by the UKPDS (United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study) with type 2 diabetic patients. In these studies, observational follow-up investigations were also performed after the close-out of the randomized phase of the trial. In addition to these landmark studies, other randomized, controlled efficacy trials were also performed with observational follow-up investigations resulting in the development of the concept of metabolic memory or metabolic legacy. In this article, the main results of the studies are summarized. Orv Hetil. 2018; 159(15): 575-582.

Zinc-chlorine battery plant system and method

DOEpatents

Whittlesey, Curtis C.; Mashikian, Matthew S.

1981-01-01

A zinc-chlorine battery plant system and method of redirecting the electrical current around a failed battery module. The battery plant includes a power conditioning unit, a plurality of battery modules connected electrically in series to form battery strings, a plurality of battery strings electrically connected in parallel to the power conditioning unit, and a bypass switch for each battery module in the battery plant. The bypass switch includes a normally open main contact across the power terminals of the battery module, and a set of normally closed auxiliary contacts for controlling the supply of reactants electrochemically transformed in the cells of the battery module. Upon the determination of a failure condition, the bypass switch for the failed battery module is energized to close the main contact and open the auxiliary contacts. Within a short time, the electrical current through the battery module will substantially decrease due to the cutoff of the supply of reactants, and the electrical current flow through the battery string will be redirected through the main contact of the bypass switch.

Automated micromanipulation desktop station based on mobile piezoelectric microrobots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fatikow, Sergej

1996-12-01

One of the main problems of present-day research on microsystem technology (MST) is to assemble a whole micro- system from different microcomponents. This paper presents a new concept of an automated micromanipulation desktop- station including piezoelectrically driven microrobots placed on a high-precise x-y-stage of a light microscope, a CCD-camera as a local sensor subsystem, a laser sensor unit as a global sensor subsystem, a parallel computer system with C167 microcontrollers, and a Pentium PC equipped additionally with an optical grabber. The microrobots can perform high-precise manipulations (with an accuracy of up to 10 nm) and a nondestructive transport (at a speed of about 3 cm/sec) of very small objects under the microscope. To control the desktop-station automatically, an advanced control system that includes a task planning level and a real-time execution level is being developed. The main function of the task planning sub-system is to interpret the implicit action plan and to generate a sequence of explicit operations which are sent to the execution level of the control system. The main functions of the execution control level are the object recognition, image processing and feedback position control of the microrobot and the microscope stage.

Erosion-corrosion entrainment of iron-containing compounds as a source of deposits in steam generators used at nuclear power plants equipped with VVER reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomarov, G. V.; Shipkov, A. A.

2011-03-01

The main stages and processes through which deposits are generated, migrate, and precipitate in the metal-secondary coolant system of power units at nuclear power plants are analyzed and determined. It is shown that substances produced by the mechanism of general erosion-corrosion are the main source of the ionic-colloid form of iron, which is the main component of deposits in a steam generator. Ways for controlling the formation of deposits in a nuclear power plant's steam generator are proposed together with methods for estimating their efficiency.

A transceiver module of the Mu radar

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kato, S.; Ogawa, T.; Tsuda, T.; Sato, T.; Kimura, I.; Fukao, S.

1983-01-01

The transceiver (TR) module of a middle and upper atmospheric radar is described. The TR module used in the radar is mainly composed of two units: a mixer (MIX unit) and a power amplifier (PA unit). The former generates the RF wave for transmission and converts the received echo to the IF signal. A 41.5-MHz local signal fed to mixers passes through a digitally controlled 8-bit phase shifter which can change its value up to 1,000 times in a second, so that the MU radar has the ability to steer its antenna direction quickly and flexibly. The MIX unit also contains a buffer amplifier and a gate for the transmitting signal and preamplifier for the received one whose noise figure is less than 5 dB. The PA unit amplifies the RF signal supplied from the MIX unit up to 63.7 dBm (2350 W), and feeds it to the crossed Yagi antenna.

Implementation of a Portable Personal EKG Signal Monitoring System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Tan-Hsu; Chang, Ching-Su; Chen, Yung-Fu; Lee, Cheng

This research develops a portable personal EKG signal monitoring system to help patients monitor their EKG signals instantly to avoid the occurrence of tragedies. This system is built with two main units: signal pro-cessing unit and monitoring and evaluation unit. The first unit consists of EKG signal sensor, signal amplifier, digitalization circuit, and related control circuits. The second unit is a software tool developed on an embedded Linux platform (called CSA). Experimental result indicates that the proposed system has the practical potential for users in health monitoring. It is demonstrated to be more convenient and with greater portability than the conventional PC-based EKG signal monitoring systems. Furthermore, all the application units embedded in the system are built with open source codes, no licensed fee is required for operating systems and authorized applications. Thus, the building cost is much lower than the traditional systems.

The Non-innocent Phenalenyl Unit: An Electronic Nest to Modulate the Catalytic Activity in Hydroamination Reaction

PubMed Central

Mukherjee, Arup; Sen, Tamal K.; Ghorai, Pradip Kr; Mandal, Swadhin K.

2013-01-01

The phenalenyl unit has played intriguing role in different fields of research spanning from chemistry, material chemistry to device physics acting as key electronic reservoir which has not only led to the best organic single component conductor but also created the spin memory device of next generation. Now we show the non-innocent behaviour of phenalenyl unit in modulating the catalytic behaviour in a homogeneous organic transformation. The present study establishes that the cationic state of phenalenyl unit can act as an organic Lewis acceptor unit to influence the catalytic outcome of intermolecular hydroamination reaction of carbodiimides. For the present study, we utilized organoaluminum complexes of phenalenyl ligands in which the phenalenyl unit maintains the closed shell electronic state. The DFT calculation reveals that the energy of LUMO of the catalyst is mainly controlled by phenalenyl ligands which in turn determines the outcome of the catalysis. PMID:24084653

Non-Lethal Weapons Program

Science.gov Websites

), 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), practice non-lethal control techniques during a non-lethal Skip to main content (Press Enter). Toggle navigation Non-Lethal Weapons Program Search Search JNLWP: Search Search JNLWP: Search Non-Lethal Weapons Program U.S. Department of Defense Non-Lethal

30 CFR 75.221 - Roof control plan information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... main roof above the coalbed and for distance of at least 10 feet below the coalbed; and (iii) Indicate... the liners or arches. (8) Drawings indicating the planned width of openings, size of pillars, method...) The length, diameter, grade and type of anchorage unit to be used; (ii) The drill hole size to be used...

30 CFR 75.221 - Roof control plan information.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... main roof above the coalbed and for distance of at least 10 feet below the coalbed; and (iii) Indicate... the liners or arches. (8) Drawings indicating the planned width of openings, size of pillars, method...) The length, diameter, grade and type of anchorage unit to be used; (ii) The drill hole size to be used...

The Wider Benefits of Higher Education. Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

London Univ. (England). Inst. of Education.

This research used data from the British National Child Development Study to assess the effects of higher education on a number of noneconomic adult outcomes in the United Kingdom, with controls in place to take into account earlier family circumstances and earlier educational attainment. Outcomes were mainly assessed at age 33, and control…

National Household Survey on Drug Abuse Main Findings 1998.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (DHHS/PHS), Rockville, MD. Office of Applied Studies.

This survey, monitoring levels of substance abuse in the United States, serves as a tool for researchers and policymakers to better understand and control substance abuse problems. It provides information on 25,500 participants' use of illicit drugs, alcohol, and tobacco among the civilian, noninstutionalized population. Trends for the years,…

Exerting control over the helical chirality in the main chain of sergeants-and-soldiers-type poly(quinoxaline-2,3-diyl)s by changing from random to block copolymerization protocols.

PubMed

Nagata, Yuuya; Nishikawa, Tsuyoshi; Suginome, Michinori

2015-04-01

Chiral random poly(quinoxaline-2,3-diyl) polymers of the sergeants-and-soldiers-type (sergeant units bearing (S)-3-octyloxymethyl groups) adopt an M- or P-helical conformation in the presence of achiral units bearing propoxymethyl or butoxy groups (soldier units), respectively. Unusual bidirectional induction of the helical sense can be observed for a copolymer with butoxy soldier units upon changing the mole fraction of the sergeant units. In the presence of 16-20% of sergeant units, the selective induction of a P-helix was observed, while the selective induction of an M-helix was observed for a mole fraction of sergeant units of more than 60%. This phenomenon could be successfully employed to control the helical chirality of copolymers by applying either random or block copolymerization protocols. Random or block copolymerization of sergeant and soldier monomers in a 18:82 ratio resulted in the formation of 250mers with almost absolute P- or M-helical conformation, respectively (>99% ee). Incorporation of a small amount of coordination sites into the random and block copolymers resulted in chiral macromolecular ligands, which allowed the enantioselective synthesis of both enantiomers in the Pd-catalyzed asymmetric hydrosilylation of β-methylstyrene.

Combating severe malaria in African children*

PubMed Central

Breman, J. G.; Campbell, C. C.

1988-01-01

An initiative to reduce childhood mortality due to malaria, diarrhoea and vaccine-preventable diseases, called the Africa Child Survival Initiative—Combatting Childhood Communicable Diseases (CCCD) project, was started in 1982 and is now operating in 13 African countries, 12 of which are endemic for malaria. The project's malaria control strategy relies on the use of drugs, mainly chloroquine, to prevent severe illness and death in children less than 5 years of age; chemoprophylaxis for pregnant women is also advised to prevent low birth weight in newborns. The strategy is based on WHO recommendations which focus on improved diagnosis and treatment of cases and chemoprophylaxis for pregnant women. In 9 out of the 13 CCCD countries the sensitivity of Plasmodium falciparum to chloroquine in children was investigated and a drug sensitivity surveillance network was established. In areas with chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum, treatment with chloroquine was found to decrease the temperature in febrile children and to greatly reduce the parasite density, thus preventing severe illness and possible death. Baseline surveys in 6 countries have shown a wide range of treatment practices, e.g., use of chloroquine in various doses without standard guidelines and the excessive use of quinine and chloroquine injections in some health units. As pregnant women are often not taking chemoprophylaxis, research has been started on alternative approaches to drug treatment to prevent the adverse effects of malaria on the fetus. Only 4 of the 12 malarious countries had malaria control units when their CCCD programme began and these were concerned mainly with vector control issues; 11 of 12 countries now have such units and a written CCCD malaria plan. These countries have now integrated malaria control activities into primary health care and have begun to implement standardized treatment and prevention practices that are described in their national CCCD malaria plans. PMID:3061675

Institutional resources for communicable disease control in Europe: diversity across time and place.

PubMed

Mätzke, Margitta

2012-12-01

This commentary discusses the causes and consequences of diversity in how European countries organize communicable disease control. Drawing on the historical record of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it first reviews the main explanations of that diversity, with a focus on the political dynamic of building institutional capacity in the field of public health. It then examines the significance of institutional diversity in the process of Europeanization, and closes with a few thoughts on factors that have shaped the development of communicable disease control capacities in the United States and the European Union.

Traffic flow collection wireless sensor network node for intersection light control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xu; Li, Xue

2011-10-01

Wireless sensor network (WSN) is expected to be deployed in intersection to monitor the traffic flow continuously, and the monitoring datum can be used as the foundation of traffic light control. In this paper, a WSN based on ZigBee protocol for monitoring traffic flow is proposed. Structure, hardware and work flow of WSN nodes are designed. CC2431 from Texas Instrument is chosen as the main computational and transmission unit, and CC2591 as the amplification unit. The stability experiment and the actual environment experiment are carried out in the last of the paper. The results of experiments show that WSN has the ability to collect traffic flow information quickly and transmit the datum to the processing center in real time.

Space Shuttle Orbiter auxiliary power unit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mckenna, R.; Wicklund, L.; Baughman, J.; Weary, D.

1982-01-01

The Space Shuttle Orbiter auxiliary power units (APUs) provide hydraulic power for the Orbiter vehicle control surfaces (rudder/speed brake, body flap, and elevon actuation systems), main engine gimbaling during ascent, landing gear deployment and steering and braking during landing. Operation occurs during launch/ascent, in-space exercise, reentry/descent, and landing/rollout. Operational effectiveness of the APU is predicated on reliable, failure-free operation during each flight, mission life (reusability) and serviceability between flights (turnaround). Along with the accumulating flight data base, the status and results of efforts to achieve these long-run objectives is presented.

Boiler-turbine life extension

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

Natzkov, S.; Nikolov, M.

1995-12-01

The design life of the main power equipment-boilers and turbines is about 105 working hours. The possibilities for life extension are after normatively regulated control tests. The diagnostics and methodology for Boilers and Turbines Elements Remaining Life Assessment using up to date computer programs, destructive and nondestructive control of metal of key elements of units equipment, metal creep and low cycle fatigue calculations. As well as data for most common damages and some technical decisions for elements life extension are presented.

PSO Algorithm for an Optimal Power Controller in a Microgrid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Saedi, W.; Lachowicz, S.; Habibi, D.; Bass, O.

2017-07-01

This paper presents the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm to improve the quality of the power supply in a microgrid. This algorithm is proposed for a real-time selftuning method that used in a power controller for an inverter based Distributed Generation (DG) unit. In such system, the voltage and frequency are the main control objectives, particularly when the microgrid is islanded or during load change. In this work, the PSO algorithm is implemented to find the optimal controller parameters to satisfy the control objectives. The results show high performance of the applied PSO algorithm of regulating the microgrid voltage and frequency.

Tectonic evolution and provenance of the Santa Bárbara Group, Camaquã Mines region, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bicca, Marcos Müller; Chemale, Farid; Jelinek, Andrea Ritter; de Oliveira, Christie Helouise Engelmann; Guadagnin, Felipe; Armstrong, Richard

2013-12-01

Cu- and Pb-Zn-hosting sedimentary units of the upper part of the Camaquã Basin (Ediacaran-Lower Ordovician) in the Dom Feliciano Belt of southernmost Brazil were formed during the late stages of the West Gondwana amalgamation and were controlled by large left-handed strike-slip shear zones. Integration of structural geology, stratigraphy and thermochronology allow recognition of five structural events (D1, Ediacaran-Lower Cambrian, through D5, Cretaceous). D1 structures are related to a N30E-trending, sinistral strike-slip shear zone that controlled the deposition of the mineralized sedimentary unit and its overlying units, the Santa Barbara and Guaritas Groups, respectively, in a transtensional setting. Based on U-Pb in situ methods, it is possible (a) to establish a maximum depositional age of 566 ± 6.9 Ma for the basal section of the Santa Barbara Group and, therefore, a minimum age of ca. 566 Ma for D1, and (b) to recognize two main zircon populations, Neoproterozoic and Paleoproterozoic, with sources from the eastern and southern parts of the Dom Feliciano Belt and reworking of older units of the Camaquã Basin. The D2 structures are mainly N-trending shear zones that developed after the deposition of the Guaritas Group during the Cambrian. During the Phanerozoic (post-Cambrian), the recognized structures were connected to compressional and extensional events that affected West Gondwana and the South America Platform. Thermochronological fission track analyses on apatite revealed four main age populations. The first three are interpreted to have formed during tectonic processes at the Gondwana Margin, namely the Famatinian and Gondwanides orogenies, and can be related to the D3 and D4 tectonic events in the basin. The last age population formed from thermal heating by the Upper Cretaceous continental flood basalts, which are represented in the area by volcanic intrusions, that were related to the separation of Africa and South America.

Workplace violence directed at nursing staff at a general hospital in southern Thailand.

PubMed

Kamchuchat, Chalermrat; Chongsuvivatwong, Virasakdi; Oncheunjit, Suparnee; Yip, Teem Wing; Sangthong, Rassamee

2008-01-01

This study aimed to document the characteristics of workplace violence directed at nursing staff, an issue which has rarely been studied in a developing country. Two study methods, a survey and a key informant interview, were conducted at a general hospital in southern Thailand. A total of 545 out of 594 questionnaires sent were returned for statistical analysis (response rate=91.7%). The 12-month prevalence of violence experience was 38.9% for verbal abuse, 3.1% for physical abuse, and 0.7% for sexual harassment. Psychological consequences including poor relationships with colleagues and family members were the major concerns. Patients and their relatives were the main perpetrators in verbal and physical abuse while co-workers were the main perpetrators in cases of sexual harassment. Common factors to incidents of violence were psychological setting, illness of the perpetrators, miscommunication, and alcohol use. Logistic regression analysis showed younger age to be a personal risk factor. Working in the out-patient unit, trauma and emergency unit, operating room, or medical or surgical unit increased the odds of violence by 80%. Training related to violence prevention and control was found to be effective and decreased the risk of being a victim of violence by 40%. We recommend providing training to high risk groups as a means of controlling workplace violence directed at nursing staff.

A portable liquid crystal-based polarized light system for the detection of organophosphorus nerve gas.

PubMed

He, Feng Jie; Liu, Hui Long; Chen, Long Cong; Xiong, Xing Liang

2018-03-01

Liquid crystal (LC)-based sensors have the advantageous properties of being fast, sensitive, and label-free, the results of which can be accessed directly only through the naked eye. However, the inherent disadvantages possessed by LC sensors, such as relying heavily on polarizing microscopes and the difficulty to quantify, have limited the possibility of field applications. Herein, we have addressed these issues by constructing a portable polarized detection system with constant temperature control. This system is mainly composed of four parts: the LC cell, the optics unit, the automatic temperature control unit, and the image processing unit. The LC cell was based on the ordering transitions of LCs in the presence of analytes. The optics unit based on the imaging principle of LCs was designed to substitute the polarizing microscope for the real-time observation. The image processing unit is expected to quantify the concentration of analytes. The results have shown that the presented system can detect dimethyl methyl phosphonate (a stimulant for organophosphorus nerve gas) within 25 s, and the limit of detection is about 10 ppb. In all, our portable system has potential in field applications.

A portable liquid crystal-based polarized light system for the detection of organophosphorus nerve gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Feng Jie; Liu, Hui Long; Chen, Long Cong; Xiong, Xing Liang

2018-03-01

Liquid crystal (LC)-based sensors have the advantageous properties of being fast, sensitive, and label-free, the results of which can be accessed directly only through the naked eye. However, the inherent disadvantages possessed by LC sensors, such as relying heavily on polarizing microscopes and the difficulty to quantify, have limited the possibility of field applications. Herein, we have addressed these issues by constructing a portable polarized detection system with constant temperature control. This system is mainly composed of four parts: the LC cell, the optics unit, the automatic temperature control unit, and the image processing unit. The LC cell was based on the ordering transitions of LCs in the presence of analytes. The optics unit based on the imaging principle of LCs was designed to substitute the polarizing microscope for the real-time observation. The image processing unit is expected to quantify the concentration of analytes. The results have shown that the presented system can detect dimethyl methyl phosphonate (a stimulant for organophosphorus nerve gas) within 25 s, and the limit of detection is about 10 ppb. In all, our portable system has potential in field applications.

Education Research and the Shifting Landscape of the American School District, 1816 to 2016

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gamson, David A.; Hodge, Emily M.

2016-01-01

Despite decades of critiques and scores of innovations designed to abolish or weaken it, the school district remains a central institution of the American educational system. Yet, although the district remains the primary agent of local democratic control and serves as the main unit for educational decisions, relatively little attention has been…

AUTOMOTIVE DIESEL MAINTENANCE 2. UNIT X, AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS--HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS (PART II).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Human Engineering Inst., Cleveland, OH.

THIS MODULE OF A 25-MODULE COURSE IS DESIGNED TO PROVIDE A SUMMARY OF MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES FOR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS USED ON DIESEL POWERED VEHICLES. TOPICS ARE (1) CHECKING THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM, (2) SERVICING THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM, (3) EXAMINING THE RANGE CONTROL VALVE, (4) EXAMINING THE LOCK-UP AND FLOW VALVE, (5) EXAMINING THE MAIN REGULATOR…

Female pheromones modulate flight muscle activation patterns during preflight warm-up.

PubMed

Crespo, José G; Vickers, Neil J; Goller, Franz

2013-08-01

At low ambient temperature Helicoverpa zea male moths engage in warm-up behavior prior to taking flight in response to an attractive female pheromone blend. Male H. zea warm up at a faster rate when sensing the attractive pheromone blend compared with unattractive blends or blank controls (Crespo et al. 2012), but the mechanisms involved in this olfactory modulation of the heating rate during preflight warm-up are unknown. Here, we test three possible mechanisms for increasing heat production: 1) increased rate of muscle contraction; 2) reduction in mechanical movement by increased overlap in activation of the antagonistic flight muscles; and 3) increased activation of motor units. To test which mechanisms play a role, we simultaneously recorded electrical activation patterns of the main flight muscles (dorsolongitudinal and dorsoventral muscles), wing movement, and thoracic temperature in moths exposed to both the attractive pheromone blend and a blank control. Results indicate that the main mechanism responsible for the observed increase in thoracic heating rate with pheromone stimulation is the differential activation of motor units during each muscle contraction cycle in both antagonistic flight muscles. This additional activation lengthens the contracted state within each cycle and thus accounts for the greater heat production. Interestingly, the rate of activation (frequency of contraction cycles) of motor units, which is temperature dependent, did not vary between treatments. This result suggests that the activation rate is determined by a temperature-dependent oscillator, which is not affected by the olfactory stimulus, but activation of motor units is modulated during each cycle.

Female pheromones modulate flight muscle activation patterns during preflight warm-up

PubMed Central

Vickers, Neil J.; Goller, Franz

2013-01-01

At low ambient temperature Helicoverpa zea male moths engage in warm-up behavior prior to taking flight in response to an attractive female pheromone blend. Male H. zea warm up at a faster rate when sensing the attractive pheromone blend compared with unattractive blends or blank controls (Crespo et al. 2012), but the mechanisms involved in this olfactory modulation of the heating rate during preflight warm-up are unknown. Here, we test three possible mechanisms for increasing heat production: 1) increased rate of muscle contraction; 2) reduction in mechanical movement by increased overlap in activation of the antagonistic flight muscles; and 3) increased activation of motor units. To test which mechanisms play a role, we simultaneously recorded electrical activation patterns of the main flight muscles (dorsolongitudinal and dorsoventral muscles), wing movement, and thoracic temperature in moths exposed to both the attractive pheromone blend and a blank control. Results indicate that the main mechanism responsible for the observed increase in thoracic heating rate with pheromone stimulation is the differential activation of motor units during each muscle contraction cycle in both antagonistic flight muscles. This additional activation lengthens the contracted state within each cycle and thus accounts for the greater heat production. Interestingly, the rate of activation (frequency of contraction cycles) of motor units, which is temperature dependent, did not vary between treatments. This result suggests that the activation rate is determined by a temperature-dependent oscillator, which is not affected by the olfactory stimulus, but activation of motor units is modulated during each cycle. PMID:23699056

Urine output on an intensive care unit: case-control study

PubMed Central

Kirwan, Christopher J; Alexander, Neal D E; Nimako, Kofi; Jurukov, Angela; Forth, Rebecca J; Rahman, Tony M

2010-01-01

Objective To compare urine output between junior doctors in an intensive care unit and the patients for whom they are responsible. Design Case-control study. Setting General intensive care unit in a tertiary referral hospital. Participants 18 junior doctors responsible for clerking patients on weekday day shifts in the unit from 23 March to 23 April 2009 volunteered as “cases.” Controls were the patients in the unit clerked by those doctors. Exclusion criteria (for both groups) were pregnancy, baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate <15 ml/min/1.73 m2, and renal replacement therapy. Main outcome measures Oliguria (defined as mean urine output <0.5 ml/kg/hour over six or more hours of measurement) and urine output (in ml/kg/hour) as a continuous variable. Results Doctors were classed as oliguric and “at risk” of acute kidney injury on 19 (22%) of 87 shifts in which urine output was measured, and oliguric to the point of being “in injury” on one (1%) further shift. Data were available for 208 of 209 controls matched to cases in the data collection period; 13 of these were excluded because the control was receiving renal replacement therapy. Doctors were more likely to be oliguric than their patients (odds ratio 1.99, 95% confidence interval 1.08 to 3.68, P=0.03). For each additional 1 ml/kg/hour mean urine output, the odds ratio for being a case rather than a control was 0.27 (0.12 to 0.58, P=0.001). Mortality among doctors was astonishingly low, at 0% (0% to 18%). Conclusions Managing our own fluid balance is more difficult than managing it in our patients. We should drink more water. Modifications to the criteria for acute kidney injury could be needed for the assessment of junior doctors in an intensive care unit. PMID:21156738

Multi-Wavelength Based Optical Density Sensor for Autonomous Monitoring of Microalgae

PubMed Central

Jia, Fei; Kacira, Murat; Ogden, Kimberly L.

2015-01-01

A multi-wavelength based optical density sensor unit was designed, developed, and evaluated to monitor microalgae growth in real time. The system consisted of five main components including: (1) laser diode modules as light sources; (2) photodiodes as detectors; (3) driver circuit; (4) flow cell; and (5) sensor housing temperature controller. The sensor unit was designed to be integrated into any microalgae culture system for both real time and non-real time optical density measurements and algae growth monitoring applications. It was shown that the sensor unit was capable of monitoring the dynamics and physiological changes of the microalgae culture in real-time. Algae biomass concentration was accurately estimated with optical density measurements at 650, 685 and 780 nm wavelengths used by the sensor unit. The sensor unit was able to monitor cell concentration as high as 1.05 g·L−1 (1.51 × 108 cells·mL−1) during the culture growth without any sample preparation for the measurements. Since high cell concentrations do not need to be diluted using the sensor unit, the system has the potential to be used in industrial microalgae cultivation systems for real time monitoring and control applications that can lead to improved resource use efficiency. PMID:26364640

Research on control law accelerator of digital signal process chip TMS320F28035 for real-time data acquisition and processing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Shuangle; Zhang, Xueyi; Sun, Shengli; Wang, Xudong

2017-08-01

TI C2000 series digital signal process (DSP) chip has been widely used in electrical engineering, measurement and control, communications and other professional fields, DSP TMS320F28035 is one of the most representative of a kind. When using the DSP program, need data acquisition and data processing, and if the use of common mode C or assembly language programming, the program sequence, analogue-to-digital (AD) converter cannot be real-time acquisition, often missing a lot of data. The control low accelerator (CLA) processor can run in parallel with the main central processing unit (CPU), and the frequency is consistent with the main CPU, and has the function of floating point operations. Therefore, the CLA coprocessor is used in the program, and the CLA kernel is responsible for data processing. The main CPU is responsible for the AD conversion. The advantage of this method is to reduce the time of data processing and realize the real-time performance of data acquisition.

The boot software of the control unit of the near infrared spectrograph of the Euclid space mission: technical specification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gómez-Sáenz-de-Tejada, Jaime; Toledo-Moreo, Rafael; Colodro-Conde, Carlos; Pérez-Lizán, David; Fernández-Conde, Jesús; Sánchez-Prieto, Sebastián.

2016-07-01

The Near Infrared Spectrograph and Photometer (NISP) is one of the instruments on board the ESA EUCLID mission. The Boot Software (BSW) is in charge of initialization and communications after a reset occurs at hard- ware level. The Universidad Politecnica de Cartagena and Instituto de Astrofisica de Canarias are responsible of the Instrument Control Unit of the NISP (NI-ICU) in the Euclid Consortium. The NI-ICU BSW is developed by Universidad de Alcaĺa, and its main functions are: communication with the S/C for memory management, self-tests and start of a patchable Application Software (ASW). This paper presents the NI-ICU BSW status of definition and design at the end of the Technical Specification phase.

The political economy of medical care. An explanation of the composition, nature, and functions of the present health sector of the United States.

PubMed

Navarro, V

1975-01-01

This presentation provides an alternative explanation of the present composition, nature, and functions of the health sector in the United States to those frequently given in sociological, economic, and medical care literature. These expalantions usually maintain that the Amcerican health sector is a result of the value system of the assumedly middle class American society. In this presentation it is postulated that the present economic structure of the United States determines and maintains a social class structure, both outside and within the health sector, and that the different degrees of ownership, control, and influence that these classes have on the means of production, reproduction, and legitimization in the United States explain the composition, nature, and functions of the health sector. It is further postulated that the value system is not the cuase, but a sysmptom, of these class controls and influences. The paper is divided into three sections. The first part profices a description of the class structure, which includes the corporate class, upper middle class, lower middle class, and working class, and it describes the mechanisms whereby this structure is maintained and replicated, both outside and within the health sector. The second section analyzes: (1)the production characteristics and social make-up of the thre main sectors of the U. S. economy-the monpolistic, state, and competitive sectors-and it focuses especially on the monopolistic sector, which is assumed to be the dominant sector in the U. S. economy, with its needs determining to a large degree the functions of the social sectors, including those of the health sector; (2) the increasing dominance of the monopolistic sector in the health sector, by means of the financial institutions, which conflicts primarily with the providers'relative control of the financing of health services; and (3) the main conflict in the control of the reproductive (academic) an distributive (delivery) institutions which, it is postulated, is not, as is generally belived, between the providers and the so-called consumers, but rather between the corporate and upper middle classes (including the providers), who control those institutions, and the majority of the U. S. population, the lower middle and working classes, who do not control them...

Status of E-ELT M5 scale-one demonstrator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barriga, Pablo; Sedghi, Babak; Dimmler, Martin; Kornweibel, Nick

2014-07-01

The fifth mirror of the European Extremely Large Telescope optical train is a field stabilization tip/tilt unit responsible for correcting the dynamical tip and tilt caused mainly by wind load on the telescope. A scale-one prototype including the inclined support, the fixed frame and a basic control system was designed and manufactured by NTE-SENER (Spain) and CSEM (Switzerland) as part of the prototyping and design activities. All interfaces to the mirror have been reproduced on a dummy structure reproducing the inertial characteristics of the optical element. The M5 unit is required to have sufficient bandwidth for tip/tilt reference commands coming from the wavefront control system. Such a bandwidth can be achieved using local active damping loop to damp the low frequency mechanical modes before closing a position loop. Prototyping on the M5 unit has been undertaken in order to demonstrate the E-ELT control system architecture, concepts and development standards and to further study active damping strategies. The control system consists of two nested loops: a local damping loop and a position loop. The development of this control system was undertaken following the E-ELT control system development standards in order to determine their applicability and performance and includes hardware selection, communication, synchronization, configuration, and data logging. In this paper we present the current status of the prototype M5 control system and the latest results on the active damping control strategy, in particular the promising results obtained with the method of positive position feedback.

Architecture of the software for LAMOST fiber positioning subsystem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Xiaobo; Xing, Xiaozheng; Hu, Hongzhuan; Zhai, Chao; Li, Weimin

2004-09-01

The architecture of the software which controls the LAMOST fiber positioning sub-system is described. The software is composed of two parts as follows: a main control program in a computer and a unit controller program in a MCS51 single chip microcomputer ROM. And the function of the software includes: Client/Server model establishment, observation planning, collision handling, data transmission, pulse generation, CCD control, image capture and processing, and data analysis etc. Particular attention is paid to the ways in which different parts of the software can communicate. Also software techniques for multi threads, SOCKET programming, Microsoft Windows message response, and serial communications are discussed.

A novel ultrasonic phased array inspection system to NDT for offshore platform structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Hua; Shan, Baohua; Wang, Xin; Ou, Jinping

2007-01-01

A novel ultrasonic phased array detection system is developed for nondestructive testing (NDT). The purpose of the system is to make acquisition of data in real-time from 64-element ultrasonic phased array transducer, and to enable real- time processing of the acquired data. The system is composed of five main parts: master unit, main board, eight transmit/receive units, a 64-element transducer and an external PC. The system can be used with 64 element transducers, excite 32 elements, receive and sample echo signals form 32 elements simultaneously at 62.5MHz with 8 bit precision. The external PC is used as the user interface showing the real time images and controls overall operation of the system through USB serial link. The use of Universal Serial Bus (USB) improves the transform speed and reduces hardware interface complexity. The program of the system is written in Visual C++.NET and is platform independent.

Conceptual design of the X-IFU Instrument Control Unit on board the ESA Athena mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Corcione, L.; Ligori, S.; Capobianco, V.; Bonino, D.; Valenziano, L.; Guizzo, G. P.

2016-07-01

Athena is one of L-class missions selected in the ESA Cosmic Vision 2015-2025 program for the science theme of the Hot and Energetic Universe. The Athena model payload includes the X-ray Integral Field Unit (X-IFU), an advanced actively shielded X-ray microcalorimeter spectrometer for high spectral resolution imaging, utilizing cooled Transition Edge Sensors. This paper describes the preliminary architecture of Instrument Control Unit (ICU), which is aimed at operating all XIFU's subsystems, as well as at implementing the main functional interfaces of the instrument with the S/C control unit. The ICU functions include the TC/TM management with S/C, science data formatting and transmission to S/C Mass Memory, housekeeping data handling, time distribution for synchronous operations and the management of the X-IFU components (i.e. CryoCoolers, Filter Wheel, Detector Readout Electronics Event Processor, Power Distribution Unit). ICU functions baseline implementation for the phase-A study foresees the usage of standard and Space-qualified components from the heritage of past and current space missions (e.g. Gaia, Euclid), which currently encompasses Leon2/Leon3 based CPU board and standard Space-qualified interfaces for the exchange commands and data between ICU and X-IFU subsystems. Alternative architecture, arranged around a powerful PowerPC-based CPU, is also briefly presented, with the aim of endowing the system with enhanced hardware resources and processing power capability, for the handling of control and science data processing tasks not defined yet at this stage of the mission study.

Fault-tolerant optimised tracking control for unknown discrete-time linear systems using a combined reinforcement learning and residual compensation methodology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Ke-Zhen; Feng, Jian; Cui, Xiaohong

2017-10-01

This paper considers the fault-tolerant optimised tracking control (FTOTC) problem for unknown discrete-time linear system. A research scheme is proposed on the basis of data-based parity space identification, reinforcement learning and residual compensation techniques. The main characteristic of this research scheme lies in the parity-space-identification-based simultaneous tracking control and residual compensation. The specific technical line consists of four main contents: apply subspace aided method to design observer-based residual generator; use reinforcement Q-learning approach to solve optimised tracking control policy; rely on robust H∞ theory to achieve noise attenuation; adopt fault estimation triggered by residual generator to perform fault compensation. To clarify the design and implementation procedures, an integrated algorithm is further constructed to link up these four functional units. The detailed analysis and proof are subsequently given to explain the guaranteed FTOTC performance of the proposed conclusions. Finally, a case simulation is provided to verify its effectiveness.

Urethra actively opens from the very beginning of micturition: a new concept of urethral function.

PubMed

Watanabe, Hiroki; Takahashi, Satoru; Ukimura, Osamu

2014-02-01

Transvaginal or transrectal ultrasound was carried out in an adult female and a male volunteer during micturition. Although the male urethra was enclosed by the prostate, its construction and the function were almost identical to the female urethra. The anterior fibromuscular stroma was not a part of the prostate, but was a part of the urethral muscle. The urethra was surrounded by a thick single muscle unit, developed only on the anterior and lateral sides of the urethra. When the participant wished to urinate, the initial motion was not a bladder contraction, but an active opening of the urethral lumen by the muscle unit. The same unit closed the urethra when continence was kept. In conclusion, the main function of the urethra is thought to be not a closure, but an opening to control the entire micturition process, rather than the bladder being primarily responsible for the control of micturition. © 2013 The Japanese Urological Association.

Optimization of hydraulic turbine governor parameters based on WPA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Chunyang; Yu, Xiangyang; Zhu, Yong; Feng, Baohao

2018-01-01

The parameters of hydraulic turbine governor directly affect the dynamic characteristics of the hydraulic unit, thus affecting the regulation capacity and the power quality of power grid. The governor of conventional hydropower unit is mainly PID governor with three adjustable parameters, which are difficult to set up. In order to optimize the hydraulic turbine governor, this paper proposes wolf pack algorithm (WPA) for intelligent tuning since the good global optimization capability of WPA. Compared with the traditional optimization method and PSO algorithm, the results show that the PID controller designed by WPA achieves a dynamic quality of hydraulic system and inhibits overshoot.

Case-control study of prostatic cancer in employees of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority.

PubMed Central

Rooney, C; Beral, V; Maconochie, N; Fraser, P; Davies, G

1993-01-01

OBJECTIVE--To investigate the relation between risk of prostatic cancer and occupational exposures, especially to radionuclides, in employees of the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority. DESIGN--Case-control study of men with prostatic cancer and matched controls. Information about sociodemographic factors and exposures to radionuclides and other substances was abstracted and classified for each subject from United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority records without knowledge of who had cancer. SUBJECTS--136 men with prostatic cancer diagnosed between 1946 and 1986 and 404 matched controls, all employees of United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES--Documented or possible contamination with specific radionuclides. RESULTS--Risk of prostatic cancer was significantly increased in men who were internally contaminated with or who worked in environments potentially contaminated by tritium, chromium-51, iron-59, cobalt-60, or zinc-65. Internal contamination with at least one of the five radionuclides was detected in 14 men with prostatic cancer (10%) and 12 controls (3%) (relative risk 5.32 (95% confidence interval 1.87 to 17.24). Altogether 28 men with prostatic cancer (21%) and 46 controls (11%) worked in environments potentially contaminated by at least one of the five radionuclides (relative risk 2.36 (1.26 to 4.43)); about two thirds worked at heavy water reactors (19 men with prostatic cancer and 32 controls (relative risk 2.13 (1.00 to 4.52)). Relative risk of prostatic cancer increased with increasing duration of work in places potentially contaminated by these radionuclides and with increasing level of probable contamination. Prostatic cancer was not associated with exposure to plutonium, uranium, cadmium, boron, beryllium, or organic or inorganic chemicals. CONCLUSIONS--Risk of prostatic cancer risk was increased in United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority workers who were occupationally exposed to tritium, 51Cr, 59Fe, 60Co, or 65Zn. Exposure to these radionuclides was infrequent, and their separate effects could not be evaluated. PMID:8274891

Interim reliability-evaluation program: analysis of the Browns Ferry, Unit 1, nuclear plant. Appendix B - system descriptions and fault trees

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

Mays, S.E.; Poloski, J.P.; Sullivan, W.H.

1982-07-01

This report describes a risk study of the Browns Ferry, Unit 1, nuclear plant. The study is one of four such studies sponsored by the NRC Office of Research, Division of Risk Assessment, as part of its Interim Reliability Evaluation Program (IREP), Phase II. This report is contained in four volumes: a main report and three appendixes. Appendix B provides a description of Browns Ferry, Unit 1, plant systems and the failure evaluation of those systems as they apply to accidents at Browns Ferry. Information is presented concerning front-line system fault analysis; support system fault analysis; human error models andmore » probabilities; and generic control circuit analyses.« less

Precision Strike Annual Programs Review

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-03-11

Deceleration and Stabilization Subsystem Squib Fire Unit Thermal Battery Electronic Safe and Arm Device Air Data Sensor Main ChargeControl Actuator Power ...platforms, and ground teams. • Powered , maneuverable, small, lightweight, accurate and lethal, with reduced risk of collateral damage. Raytheon Missile...requirements evolve, so will capability • Builds on powerful infrastructure • “Color of Money” timing is very different Traditional Approach Traditional IOC

Performance of a High-Fidelity 4kW-Class Engineering Model PPU and Integration with HiVHAc System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pinero, Luis R.; Kamhawi, Hani; Shilo, Vladislav

2016-01-01

The High Voltage Hall Accelerator (HiVHAc) propulsion system consists of a thruster,power processing unit (PPU), and propellant feed system. An engineering model PPU was developed by Colorado Power Electronics, Inc. funded by NASA's Small Business Innovative Research Program. This PPU uses an innovative 3-phase resonant converter to deliver 4 kW of discharge power over a wide range of input and output voltage conditions.The PPU includes a digital control interface unit that automatically controls the PPU and a xenon flow control module (XFCM). It interfaces with a control computer to receive high level commands and relay telemetry through a MIL-STD-1553B interface. The EM PPU was thoroughly tested at GRC for functionality and performance at temperature extremes and demonstrated total efficiencies a high as 95 percent. It was integrated with the HiVHAc thruster and the XFCM to demonstrate closed-loop control of discharge current with anode flow. Initiation of the main discharge and power throttling were also successfully demonstrated and discharge oscillations were characterized.

The research of laser marking control technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Qiue; Zhang, Rong

2009-08-01

In the area of Laser marking, the general control method is insert control card to computer's mother board, it can not support hot swap, it is difficult to assemble or it. Moreover, the one marking system must to equip one computer. In the system marking, the computer can not to do the other things except to transmit marking digital information. Otherwise it can affect marking precision. Based on traditional control methods existed some problems, introduced marking graphic editing and digital processing by the computer finish, high-speed digital signal processor (DSP) control marking the whole process. The laser marking controller is mainly contain DSP2812, digital memorizer, DAC (digital analog converting) transform unit circuit, USB interface control circuit, man-machine interface circuit, and other logic control circuit. Download the marking information which is processed by computer to U disk, DSP read the information by USB interface on time, then processing it, adopt the DSP inter timer control the marking time sequence, output the scanner control signal by D/A parts. Apply the technology can realize marking offline, thereby reduce the product cost, increase the product efficiency. The system have good effect in actual unit markings, the marking speed is more quickly than PCI control card to 20 percent. It has application value in practicality.

Performing in-feed type centerless grinding process on a surface grinder

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

Xu, W.; Wu, Y.; Sato, T.

2011-01-17

In our previous study, a new centerless grinding method using surface grinder was proposed. In this method, centerless grinding operations are performed by installing a compact centerless grinding unit, consisting mainly of an ultrasonic elliptic-vibration shoe, a blade and their respective holders, on the worktable of a surface grinder. During grinding, the cylindrical workpiece is held on the ultrasonic shoe and the blade, and its rotational motion is controlled by the elliptic motion of the shoe end-face. An actual unit had been produced and its performance in tangential-feed type centerless grinding using a surface grinder had been confirmed in themore » previous workd. In this paper, the performance of the grinding unit in in-feed centerless grinding operation was confirmed, and the effects of the main process parameter, i.e., eccentric angle, on the workpiece roundness was investigated experimentally. The obtained results showed that: (1) the centerless grinding unit performed well in in-feed type centerless grinding; (2) the eccentric angle affects roundness significantly, and its optimal angle is 6 deg.; (3) the workpiece roundness can be further improved by varying the eccentric angle during grinding, and the final roundness reached 0.65 {mu}m after grinding as the eccentric angle varied from 9 deg. to 6 deg. and to 3 deg.« less

Performing in-feed type centerless grinding process on a surface grinder

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, W.; Wu, Y.; Sato, T.; Lin, W.

2011-01-01

In our previous study, a new centerless grinding method using surface grinder was proposed. In this method, centerless grinding operations are performed by installing a compact centerless grinding unit, consisting mainly of an ultrasonic elliptic-vibration shoe, a blade and their respective holders, on the worktable of a surface grinder. During grinding, the cylindrical workpiece is held on the ultrasonic shoe and the blade, and its rotational motion is controlled by the elliptic motion of the shoe end-face. An actual unit had been produced and its performance in tangential-feed type centerless grinding using a surface grinder had been confirmed in the previous workd. In this paper, the performance of the grinding unit in in-feed centerless grinding operation was confirmed, and the effects of the main process parameter, i.e., eccentric angle, on the workpiece roundness was investigated experimentally. The obtained results showed that: (1) the centerless grinding unit performed well in in-feed type centerless grinding; (2) the eccentric angle affects roundness significantly, and its optimal angle is 6°; (3) the workpiece roundness can be further improved by varying the eccentric angle during grinding, and the final roundness reached 0.65 μm after grinding as the eccentric angle varied from 9° to 6° and to 3°.

Mobilization of ventilated patients in the intensive care unit: An elicitation study using the theory of planned behavior.

PubMed

Holdsworth, Clare; Haines, Kimberley J; Francis, Jill J; Marshall, Andrea; O'Connor, Denise; Skinner, Elizabeth H

2015-12-01

Early mobilization in intensive care unit (ICU) is safe, feasible, and beneficial. However, mobilization frequently does not occur in practice. The study objective was to elicit attitudinal, normative, and control beliefs (barriers and enablers) toward the mobilization of ventilated patients, to inform development of targeted implementation interventions. A 9-item elicitation questionnaire was administered electronically to a convenience sample of multidisciplinary staff in a tertiary ICU. A snowball recruitment approach was used to target a sample size of 20 to 25. Two investigators performed word count and thematic analyses independently. Themes were cross-checked by a third investigator. Twenty-two questionnaires were completed. Respondents wrote the most text about disadvantages. Positive attitudinal beliefs included better respiratory function, reduced functional decline, and reduced muscle wasting/weakness. The main negative attitudinal beliefs were that mobilization is perceived as time consuming and poses a risk of line dislodgement/disconnection. Positive control beliefs (enablers) included increased staff availability, positive staff attitudes, engagement, and teamwork. Negative control beliefs (barriers) included unstable patient physiology and negative workplace culture. Intensive care unit staff expressed positive and negative attitudinal, normative, and control beliefs across the spectrum, and disadvantages were most frequently reported. Identified beliefs can be used to inform development of future interventions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Dexamethasone in head and neck cancer patients with microvascular reconstruction: No benefit, more complications.

PubMed

Kainulainen, S; Törnwall, J; Koivusalo, A M; Suominen, A L; Lassus, P

2017-02-01

Glucocorticoids are widely used in association with major surgery of the head and neck to improve postoperative rehabilitation, shorten intensive care unit and hospital stay, and reduce neck swelling. This study aimed to clarify whether peri- and postoperative use of dexamethasone in reconstructive head and neck cancer surgery is associated with any advantages or disadvantages. This prospective double-blind randomized controlled trial comprised 93 patients. A total dose of 60mg of dexamethasone was administered to 51 patients over three days peri- and postoperatively. The remaining 42 patients served as controls. The main primary outcome variables were neck swelling, length of intensive care unit and hospital stay, duration of intubation or tracheostomy, and delay to start of possible radiotherapy. Complications were also recorded. No statistical differences emerged between the two groups in any of the main primary outcome variables. However, there were more major complications, especially infections, needing secondary surgery within three weeks of the operation in patients receiving dexamethasone than in control patients (27% vs. 7%, p=0.012). The use of dexamethasone in oral cancer patients with microvascular reconstruction did not provide a benefit. More major complications, especially infections, occurred in patients receiving dexamethasone. Our data thus do not support the use of peri- and postoperative dexamethasone in oropharyngeal cancer patients undergoing microvascular reconstruction. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Inside Maine’s Medicine Cabinet: Findings From the Drug Enforcement Administration's Medication Take-Back Events

PubMed Central

Malinowski, Alexandra; Ochs, Leslie; Jaramillo, Jeanie; McCall, Kenneth; Sullivan, Meghan

2015-01-01

Objectives. We evaluated the quantity and type of medications obtained in unused-medications return programs and the proportion of medication waste. Methods. We analyzed data collected in 11 Maine cities in 2011 to 2013 during 6 Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) national medication take-back events. Pharmacy doctoral student volunteers collected data under the supervision of law enforcement, independent of the DEA. Data entry into the Pharmaceutical Collection Monitoring System, through its interface with Micromedex, allowed for analysis of medication classification, controlled substance category, therapeutic class, and percentage of medication waste (units returned/units dispensed). Results. Medication take-back events resulted in return of 13 599 individual medications from 1049 participants. We cataloged 553 019 units (capsules, tablets, milliliters, patches, or grams), representing 69.7% medication waste. Noncontrolled prescription medications accounted for 56.4% of returns, followed by over-the-counter medications (31.4%) and controlled prescription medications (9.1%). Conclusions. The significant quantities of medications, including controlled substances, returned and high degree of medication waste emphasize the need for medication collection programs to further public health research and improve health in our communities. PMID:25393189

78 FR 79289 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-30

... leakage into the main deck cargo wire integration unit (WIU). The water flowed from the main deck floor... deck cargo wire integration unit (WIU). The water flowed from the main deck floor panels, through...

Increased mechanical cost of walking in children with diplegia: the role of the passenger unit cannot be neglected.

PubMed

Van de Walle, P; Hallemans, A; Truijen, S; Gosselink, R; Heyrman, L; Molenaers, G; Desloovere, K

2012-01-01

Gait efficiency in children with cerebral palsy is decreased. To date, most research did not include the upper body as a separate functional unit when exploring these changes in gait efficiency. Since children with spastic diplegia often experience problems with trunk control, they could benefit from separate evaluation of the so-called 'passenger unit'. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to improve insights in the role of the passenger unit in decreased gait efficiency in children with diplegia. Mechanical cost of walking was investigated by calculating work by the integrated joint power approach in 18 children with diplegia and 25 age-related typical developing controls. The total mechanical work in children with diplegia was 1.5 times higher than in typical children. In children with diplegia work at the lower limbs was increased by 37% compared to typical children. Substantially higher increases, up to 222%, were noted at the passenger unit. Trunk and head were the main contributors to the increased work of the passenger unit, but the role of the arms cannot be neglected. Due to these disproportional increases in locomotor and passenger unit, the demands of the passenger unit in pathological gait can no longer be considered minor, as in typical gait. Therefore, the role of the passenger unit must be recognized in the decrease of gait efficiency in children with spastic diplegia and should be part of the evaluation of gait efficiency in clinical practice. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

46 CFR 108.401 - Fire main system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Fire main system. 108.401 Section 108.401 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Fire Extinguishing Systems § 108.401 Fire main system. Each unit must have a fire main system. ...

46 CFR 108.401 - Fire main system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Fire main system. 108.401 Section 108.401 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Fire Extinguishing Systems § 108.401 Fire main system. Each unit must have a fire main system. ...

46 CFR 108.401 - Fire main system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Fire main system. 108.401 Section 108.401 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Fire Extinguishing Systems § 108.401 Fire main system. Each unit must have a fire main system. ...

46 CFR 108.401 - Fire main system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Fire main system. 108.401 Section 108.401 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Fire Extinguishing Systems § 108.401 Fire main system. Each unit must have a fire main system. ...

46 CFR 108.401 - Fire main system.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Fire main system. 108.401 Section 108.401 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Fire Extinguishing Systems § 108.401 Fire main system. Each unit must have a fire main system. ...

Research on optimization of combustion efficiency of thermal power unit based on genetic algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Qiongyang

2018-04-01

In order to improve the economic performance and reduce pollutant emissions of thermal power units, the characteristics of neural network in establishing boiler combustion model are analyzed based on the analysis of the main factors affecting boiler efficiency by using orthogonal method. In addition, on the basis of this model, the genetic algorithm is used to find the best control amount of the furnace combustion in a certain working condition. Through the genetic algorithm based on real number encoding and roulette selection is concluded: the best control quantity at a condition of furnace combustion can be combined with the boiler combustion system model for neural network training. The precision of the neural network model is further improved, and the basic work is laid for the research of the whole boiler combustion optimization system.

Multipurpose electroslag remelting furnace for modern energy and heavy engineering industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dub, A. V.; Dub, V. S.; Kriger, Yu. N.; Levkov, L. Ya.; Shurygin, D. A.; Kissel'man, M. A.; Nekhamin, C. M.; Chernyak, A. I.; Bessonov, A. V.; Kamantsev, S. V.; Sokolov, S. O.

2012-12-01

In 2011, a unique complex based on a multipurpose unit-type electroslag remelting (ESR) furnace is created to meet the demand for large high-quality solid and hollow billets for the products of power, atomic, petrochemical, and heavy machine engineering. This complex has modern low-frequency power supplies with a new control level that ensure a high homogeneity and quality of the billets and an increase in the engineering-and-economical performance of the production. A unique pilot ESR furnace is erected to adjust technological conditions and the main control system elements.

The 15 September 1991 pyroclastic flows at Unzen Volcano (Japan): a flow model for associated ash-cloud surges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujii, Toshitsugu; Nakada, Setsuya

1999-04-01

Large-scale collapse of a dacite dome in the late afternoon of 15 September 1991 generated a series of pyroclastic-flow events at Unzen Volcano. Pyroclastic flows with a volume of 1×10 6 m 3 (as DRE) descended the northeastern slope of the volcano, changing their courses to the southeast due to topographic control. After they exited a narrow gorge, an ash-cloud surge rushed straight ahead, detaching the main body of the flow that turned and followed the topographic lows to the east. The surge swept the Kita-Kamikoba area, which had been devastated by the previous pyroclastic-flow events, and transported a car as far as 120 m. Following detachment, the surge lost its force after it moved several hundred meters, but maintained a high temperature. The deposits consist of a bottom layer of better-sorted ash (unit 1), a thick layer of block and ash (unit 2), and a thin top layer of fall-out ash (unit 3). Unit 2 overlies unit 1 with an erosional contact. The upper part of unit 2 grades into better-sorted ash. At distal block-and-ash flow deposits, the bottom part of unit 2 also consists of better-sorted ash, and the contact with the unit 1 deposits becomes ambiguous. Video footage of cascading pyroclastic flows during the 1991-1995 eruption, traveling over surfaces without any topographic barriers, revealed that lobes of ash cloud protruded intermittently from the moving head and sides, and that these lobes surged ahead on the ground surface. This fact, together with the inspection by helicopter shortly after the events, suggests that the protruded lobes consisted of better-sorted ash, and resulted in the deposits of unit 1. The highest ash-cloud plume at the Oshigadani valley exit, and the thickest deposition of fall-out ash over Kita-Kamikoba and Ohnokoba, indicate that abundant ash was also produced when the flow passed through a narrow gorge. In the model presented here, the ash clouds from the pyroclastic flows were composed of a basal turbulent current of high concentration (main body), an overriding and intermediate fluidization zone, and an overlying dilute cloud. Release of pressurized gas in lava block pores, due to collisions among blocks and the resulting upward current, caused a zone of fluidization just above the main body. The mixture of gas and ash sorted in the fluidization zone moved ahead and to the side of the main body as a gravitational current, where the ash was deposited as surge deposits. The main body, which had high internal friction and shear near its base, then overran the surge deposits, partially eroding them. When the upward current of gas (fluidization) waned, better-sorted ash suspended in the fluidization zone was deposited on block-and-ash deposits. In the distal places of block-and-ash deposits, unit 2 probably was deposited in non-turbulent fashion without any erosion of the underlying layer (unit 1).

Highly crystalline covalent organic frameworks from flexible building blocks.

PubMed

Xu, Liqian; Ding, San-Yuan; Liu, Junmin; Sun, Junliang; Wang, Wei; Zheng, Qi-Yu

2016-03-28

Two novel 2D covalent organic frameworks (TPT-COF-1 and TPT-COF-2) were synthesized from the flexible 2,4,6-triaryloxy-1,3,5-triazine building blocks on a gram scale, which show high crystallinity and large surface area. The controllable formation of highly ordered frameworks is mainly attributed to the self-assembly Piedfort unit of 2,4,6-triaryloxy-1,3,5-triazine.

International HIV and AIDS prevention: Japan/United States collaboration.

PubMed

Umenai, T; Narula, M; Onuki, D; Yamamoto, T; Igari, T

1997-01-01

As the epicenter of the HIV/AIDS pandemic shifts from Africa to Asia, Japan is becoming ever more aware of the importance of containing and preventing spread of the virus. International collaboration, particularly with the United States, is a logical approach because it allows utilization of expertise from countries in other stages of the pandemic, can prevent duplication of efforts, and complements efforts of the other countries. Further, both Japan and the United States can use their combined influence and prestige to encourage cooperation among all nations. In 1994, Japan established the Global Issues Initiative to extend cooperation to developing countries in the areas of population and AIDS control. It has disbursed more than $460 million (U.S.$) to promote active cooperation and stimulate international attention to the importance of addressing these health issues. Japan has established four main programs for international collaboration for control of HIV and AIDS, three operated by ministries and one by a Japanese nongovernmental organization. Japanese/United States collaboration is developing through the United States/Japan Cooperative Medical Sciences Program, the Common Agenda for Cooperation in Global Perspective, the Paris Summit, and the United Nations Joint Programme on AIDS. It is critical that Japan and the United States, as the two largest donors to international development, demonstrate, through their collaboration, ways to maximize the use of limited resources, reduce duplication, and promote sustainable development programs in which HIV prevention and AIDS care programs are systemically integrated.

Relative contribution of different altered motor unit control to muscle weakness in stroke: a simulation study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shin, Henry; Suresh, Nina L.; Zev Rymer, William; Hu, Xiaogang

2018-02-01

Objective. Chronic muscle weakness impacts the majority of individuals after a stroke. The origins of this hemiparesis is multifaceted, and an altered spinal control of the motor unit (MU) pool can lead to muscle weakness. However, the relative contribution of different MU recruitment and discharge organization is not well understood. In this study, we sought to examine these different effects by utilizing a MU simulation with variations set to mimic the changes of MU control in stroke. Approach. Using a well-established model of the MU pool, this study quantified the changes in force output caused by changes in MU recruitment range and recruitment order, as well as MU firing rate organization at the population level. We additionally expanded the original model to include a fatigue component, which variably decreased the output force with increasing length of contraction. Differences in the force output at both the peak and fatigued time points across different excitation levels were quantified and compared across different sets of MU parameters. Main results. Across the different simulation parameters, we found that the main driving factor of the reduced force output was due to the compressed range of MU recruitment. Recruitment compression caused a decrease in total force across all excitation levels. Additionally, a compression of the range of MU firing rates also demonstrated a decrease in the force output mainly at the higher excitation levels. Lastly, changes to the recruitment order of MUs appeared to minimally impact the force output. Significance. We found that altered control of MUs alone, as simulated in this study, can lead to a substantial reduction in muscle force generation in stroke survivors. These findings may provide valuable insight for both clinicians and researchers in prescribing and developing different types of therapies for the rehabilitation and restoration of lost strength after stroke.

Development and creation of a remote-controlled underwater laser induced breakdown spectrometer for analysis of the chemical composition of sea water and bottom sediments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Golik, Sergey S.; Mayor, Alexsander Yu.; Proschenko, Dmitriy Yu.; Ilyin, Alexey A.; Nagorniy, Ivan G.; Biryukova, Yuliya S.; Babiy, Michael Yu.; Golik, Natalia N.; Gevorgyan, Tigran A.; Lisitsa, Vladimir V.; Borovskiy, Anton V.; Kulchin, Yuri N.

2017-10-01

The developed underwater laser induced breakdown spectrometer consists of two units: 1- remotely operated vehicle (ROV) with the next main characteristics: work deep - up to 150 meters, maximum speed of immersion 1 m/s, maximum cruise velocity - 2 m/s and 2 - spectrometer unit (SU) consist of a DPSS Nd: YAG laser excitation source (double pulse with 50 mJ energy for each pulse at wavelength 1064 nm, pulse width 12 ns and pulse repetition rate 1-15 Hz, DF251, SOL Instruments), a spectrum recording system (Maya HR4000 or 2000 Pro spectrometer, Ocean Optics) and microcomputer. These two units are connected by Ethernet network and registered spectral data are automatically processed in a MATLAB platform.

Dermatoglyphic patterns in dementia of the Alzheimer type: a case-control study.

PubMed Central

Berr, C; Okra-Podrabinek, N; Feteanu, D; Taurand, S; Hervy, M P; Forette, F; Piette, F; Sebag-Lanoe, R; Alperovitch, A

1992-01-01

STUDY OBJECTIVE--The aim was to compare digital and palmar dermatoglyphics in subjects with dementia of Alzheimer type and in mentally healthy elderly controls. DESIGN--This design was a case-control study. SETTING--The study was carried out in geriatric units and retirement communities in the Paris area. PARTICIPANTS--Cases were women with clinically diagnosed Alzheimer type dementia according to DSM III-R criteria (n = 82), mainly with late onset of the disease. Controls were women aged 85 years or older without cognitive deterioration (n = 76). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS--Finger and palm prints obtained from both hands by the classical ink method were examined. Fingerprints were classified into four types of figures. On palms, palmar flexion creases, palmar axial triradii, true patterns of the hypothenar area, and main line terminations were described. Examinations were performed by two examiners blind to the subjects's diagnostic category. For the different patterns studied, no major differences between dementia patients and elderly controls were found. Nor was there evidence of high frequencies of features commonly observed in Down's syndrome (trisomy 21), which have previously, though sporadically, been reported. CONCLUSIONS--On one of the largest samples of Alzheimer dementia patients studied, and with evaluation blind to diagnosis, no evidence has been found that particular dermatoglyphic patterns occur like those observed in Down's syndrome, a disease which is related to dementia of the Alzheimer type. PMID:1479321

A multi-level simulation platform of natural gas internal reforming solid oxide fuel cell-gas turbine hybrid generation system - Part II. Balancing units model library and system simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bao, Cheng; Cai, Ningsheng; Croiset, Eric

2011-10-01

Following our integrated hierarchical modeling framework of natural gas internal reforming solid oxide fuel cell (IRSOFC), this paper firstly introduces the model libraries of main balancing units, including some state-of-the-art achievements and our specific work. Based on gPROMS programming code, flexible configuration and modular design are fully realized by specifying graphically all unit models in each level. Via comparison with the steady-state experimental data of Siemens-Westinghouse demonstration system, the in-house multi-level SOFC-gas turbine (GT) simulation platform is validated to be more accurate than the advanced power system analysis tool (APSAT). Moreover, some units of the demonstration system are designed reversely for analysis of a typically part-load transient process. The framework of distributed and dynamic modeling in most of units is significant for the development of control strategies in the future.

Biological satellite scientific devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perepech, B. L.; Rumiantsev, V. P.; Galkin, V. M.; Shakhvorostov, S. V.; Rvachev, S. S.

1991-02-01

The paper describes the NA SBS 9 systems developed for the ninth Cosmos-2044 biological test mission. The NA SBS 9 life support systems designed for monkeys and rats follow standard design of BIOS-Vivarium and BIOS-Primate units. The main features of NA SBS 9 include the use of a recently developed HF physiological data recorder Skat-3; the incorporation into BIOS-Primate of two units intended for biorhythmic studies (the BBI-Zh system for studying beetles and the VITALOG developed by NASA for studies on monkeys); and a new version of BIOS-Primate system incorporating a capacitance-link and an inductance-link temperature transmitters and a brain tissue oxygen tension control channel.

Variable-speed controller provides flexibility to electrical submersible pumps

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

Butlin, D.

1986-06-09

The performance of an electric submersible pump (ESP) is dramatically modified by a variable speed controller (VSC). Variable frequency power directly controls pump speed and thus the hydraulic performance of the pump. Even though the ESP is the primary form of artificial lift for high volume, deep oil wells (particularly where gas is unavailable), the biggest disadvantage has been the pump's inflexibility when run at a constant speed, i.e., the unit is limited to a fixed head output at each rate. The VSC has rapidly gained acceptance as a valuable ESP accessory to alleviate this restriction. By allowing the pumpmore » speed to be varied, the rate and head, or both, can be adjusted with no modification of the downhole unit. There are now over 700 VSCs running with ESPs on every continent of the world. Pumping flexibility was the main purpose of applying the VSC to the ESP, but several other benefits have become apparent. Of particular interest are those that can extend downhole equipment life, e.g., soft start, automatically controlled speed, line-transient suppression, and elimination of surface chokes.« less

[IMSS in Numbers: the Census of Diabetic Patients, 2004].

PubMed

2006-01-01

The census of diabetic patients at the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social describes the state and level of control of biologic markers, such as glucose, BMI and blood pressure of all diabetic patients attending the family medicine units during 2004. The main results show that 2,334,340 diabetic patients visited the health units of the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social with an average of 3.7 visits per year. Around 75% of the patients had their weight and height registered; 73%, their blood pressure, and only 28.8%, their glycemia level. One third of the patients (35.7%) had an unspecified diagnosis of diabetes mellitus and 91.3% had no complications reported. Of those with glycemia reported, 56.9% had a poor blood glucose control. Half of the diabetic patients were also diagnosed as hypertensive though 74% had good blood pressure control. The BMI reported that 40.4% were obese and 39.6% were overweight. All these data are important to measure the impact of different health interventions that point to a better control of diabetes at the IMSS.

Change in Sediment Provenance Near the Current Estuary of Yellow River Since the Holocene Transgression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Sheng; Feng, Xiuli; Li, Guogang; Liu, Xiao; Xiao, Xiao; Feng, Li

2018-06-01

Sedimentary sequence and sediment provenance are important factors when it comes to the studies on marine sedimentation. This paper studies grain size distribution, lithological characteristics, major and rare earth elemental compositions, micropaleontological features and 14C ages in order to examine sedimentary sequence and sediment provenance of the core BH6 drilled at the mouth of the Yellow River in Bohai Sea. According to the grain size and the micropaleontological compositions, 4 sedimentary units have been identified. Unit 1 (0-8.08 mbsf) is of the delta sedimentary facies, Unit 2 (8.08-12.08 mbsf) is of the neritic shelf facies, Unit 3 (12.08-23.85 mbsf) is of near-estuary beach-tidal facies, and Unit 4 (23.85 mbsf-) is of the continental lake facies. The deposits from Unit 1 to Unit 3 have been found to be marine strata formed after the Holocene transgression at about 10 ka BP, while Unit 4 is continental lacustrine deposit formed before 10 ka BP. The provenances of core BH6 sediments show properties of the continental crust and vary in different sedimentary periods. For Unit 4 sediments, the source regions are dispersed while the main provenance is not clear, although the parent rock characteristics of a few samples are similar to the Luanhe River sediments. For Unit 3, sediments at 21.1-23.85 mbsf have been mainly transported from the Liaohe River, while sediments above 21.1 mbsf are mainly from the Yellow River and partially from the Liaohe River. For Unit 2, the sediments have been mainly transported from the Yellow River, with a small amount from other rivers. For Unit 1, the provenance is mainly the Yellow River catchment. These results help in better understanding the evolution of the Yellow River Delta.

Time-series intervention analysis of pedestrian countdown timer effects.

PubMed

Huitema, Bradley E; Van Houten, Ron; Manal, Hana

2014-11-01

Pedestrians account for 40-50% of traffic fatalities in large cities. Several previous studies based on relatively small samples have concluded that Pedestrian Countdown Timers (PCT) may reduce pedestrian crashes at signalized intersections, but other studies report no reduction. The purposes of the present article are to (1) describe a new methodology to evaluate the effectiveness of introducing PCT signals and (2) to present results of applying this methodology to pedestrian crash data collected in a large study carried out in Detroit, Michigan. The study design incorporated within-unit as well as between-unit components. The main focus was on dynamic effects that occurred within the PCT unit of 362 treated sites during the 120 months of the study. An interrupted time-series analysis was developed to evaluate whether change in crash frequency depended upon of the degree to which the countdown timers penetrated the treatment unit. The between-unit component involved comparisons between the treatment unit and a control unit. The overall conclusion is that the introduction of PCT signals in Detroit reduced pedestrian crashes to approximately one-third of the preintervention level. The evidence for this reductionis strong and the change over time was shown to be a function of the extent to which the timers were introduced during the intervention period. There was no general drop-off in crash frequency throughout the baseline interval of over five years; only when the PCT signals were introduced in large numbers was consistent and convincing crash reduction observed. Correspondingly, there was little evidence of change in the control unit. Copyright © 2014. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Identification of areas of recharge and discharge using Landsat-TM satellite imagery and aerial photography mapping techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salama, R. B.; Tapley, I.; Ishii, T.; Hawkes, G.

1994-10-01

Aerial photographs (AP) and Landsat (TM) colour composites were used to map the geomorphology, geology and structures of the Salt River System of Western Australia. Geomorphic features identified are sand plains, dissected etchplain, colluvium, lateritic duricrust and rock outcrops. The hydrogeomorphic units include streams, lakes and playas, palaeochannels and palaeodeltas. The structural features are linear and curvilinear lineaments, ring structures and dolerite dykes. Suture lines control the course of the main river channel. Permeable areas around the circular granitic plutons were found to be the main areas of recharge in the uplands. Recharge was also found to occur in the highly permeable areas of the sandplains. Discharge was shown to be primarily along the main drainage lines, on the edge of the circular sandplains, in depressions and in lakes. The groundwater occurrence and hydrogeological classification of the recharge potential of the different units were used to classify the mapped areas into recharge and discharge zones. The results also show that TM colour composites provide a viable source of data comparable with AP for mapping and delineating areas of recharge and discharge on a regional scale.

Bonding and Structure. Independent Learning Project for Advanced Chemistry (ILPAC). Unit S4.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Inner London Education Authority (England).

This unit on chemical bonding is one of 10 first year units produced by the Independent Learning Project for Advanced Chemistry (ILPAC). The unit, which consists of two levels, provides an introduction to the main types of chemical bonding and important aspects of structure. The main emphasis is placed on such topics as ionic and covalent bonding,…

Guidelines for the processing and quality assurance of benthic invertebrate samples collected as part of the National Water-Quality Assessment Program

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cuffney, T.F.; Gurtz, M.E.; Meador, M.R.

1993-01-01

Benthic invertebrate samples are collected as part of the U.S. Geological Survey's National Water-Quality Assessment Program. This is a perennial, multidisciplinary program that integrates biological, physical, and chemical indicators of water quality to evaluate status and trends and to develop an understanding of the factors controlling observed water quality. The Program examines water quality in 60 study units (coupled ground- and surface-water systems) that encompass most of the conterminous United States and parts of Alaska and Hawaii. Study-unit teams collect and process qualitative and semi-quantitative invertebrate samples according to standardized procedures. These samples are processed (elutriated and subsampled) in the field to produce as many as four sample components: large-rare, main-body, elutriate, and split. Each sample component is preserved in 10-percent formalin, and two components, large-rare and main-body, are sent to contract laboratories for further processing. The large-rare component is composed of large invertebrates that are removed from the sample matrix during field processing and placed in one or more containers. The main-body sample component consists of the remaining sample materials (sediment, detritus, and invertebrates) and is subsampled in the field to achieve a volume of 750 milliliters or less. The remaining two sample components, elutriate and split, are used for quality-assurance and quality-control purposes. Contract laboratories are used to identify and quantify invertebrates from the large-rare and main-body sample components according to the procedures and guidelines specified within this document. These guidelines allow the use of subsampling techniques to reduce the volume of sample material processed and to facilitate identifications. These processing procedures and techniques may be modified if the modifications provide equal or greater levels of accuracy and precision. The intent of sample processing is to determine the quantity of each taxon present in the semi-quantitative samples or to list the taxa present in qualitative samples. The processing guidelines provide standardized laboratory forms, sample labels, detailed sample processing flow charts, standardized format for electronic data, quality-assurance procedures and checks, sample tracking standards, and target levels for taxonomic determinations. The contract laboratory (1) is responsible for identifications and quantifications, (2) constructs reference collections, (3) provides data in hard copy and electronic forms, (4) follows specified quality-assurance and quality-control procedures, and (5) returns all processed and unprocessed portions of the samples. The U.S. Geological Survey's Quality Management Group maintains a Biological Quality-Assurance Unit, located at the National Water-Quality Laboratory, Arvada, Colorado, to oversee the use of contract laboratories and ensure the quality of data obtained from these laboratories according to the guidelines established in this document. This unit establishes contract specifications, reviews contractor performance (timeliness, accuracy, and consistency), enters data into the National Water Information System-II data base, maintains in-house reference collections, deposits voucher specimens in outside museums, and interacts with taxonomic experts within and outside the U.S. Geological Survey. This unit also modifies the existing sample processing and quality-assurance guidelines, establishes criteria and testing procedures for qualifying potential contract laboratories, identifies qualified taxonomic experts, and establishes voucher collections.

The anatomy of the Cycladic Blueschist Unit on Sifnos Island (Cyclades, Greece): implications for exhumation model of high-pressure rocks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roche, Vincent; Laurent, Valentin; Jolivet, Laurent; Cardello, Giovanni Luca; Scaillet, Stéphane

2015-04-01

Key words.- Aegean sea, Cyclades, Sifnos, high pressure and low temperature metamorphism, syn-orogenic exhumation, post-orogenic extension, strain localization. Since 35 Ma, the kinematics of the Aegean domain has been mainly controlled by the southward retreat of the African slab, inducing backarc extension. The main structures and associated kinematic are well constrained, but the kinematics of deformation before 35 Ma, coeval with the exhumation of blueschists and eclogites of the Cycladic Blueschist Unit, has been so far poorly studied. Hence, syn-orogenic deformation and exhumation mechanisms of the Cycladic Blueschists Unit remain disputed in part because the structure and kinematic history of High Pressure and Low Temperature (HP-LT) rocks are interpreted differently in the literature. In order to understand and constrain the exhumation history of HP-LT rocks, Sifnos Island is particularly relevant because HP-LT parageneses are exceptionally well preserved and different degree of retrogression are observed in two main units. The aims of this work attempts at firstly solving uncertainties on the position and geometry of major contacts between units and, secondly, to provide new structural constraints on the tectonic history of HP-LT units generated in the subduction zone during the Eocene. We show, through new geological and metamorphic maps, cross-sections and analyses of kinematic indicators and their relation to metamorphism, that Sifnos is characterized by shallow-dipping shear zones reactivating weak zones due to competence contrasts or earlier tectonic contacts (i.e., syn-orogenic). Structures and kinematics, associated with these shear zones, show a top-to-the-N to -NE ductile shearing deformation. A continuum of deformation can be observed from the Eocene syn-orogenic blueschist-facies to the Oligocene-Miocene post-orogenic greenschist-facies with the same top-to-the-NE sense of shear showing that the same shear zones, formed during syn-orogenic exhumation were reactivated during the formation of the Aegean Sea. A progressive localization of strain along discrete shear zones toward the base of the tectonic pile is also observed. The present-day shape of the island is largely controlled by late brittle fault reshaping the older domal structure. These late low-angle and steeper normal faults with kinematic indicators top-to-the-SW cross-cut the ductile structure and may represent the brittle expression of the West Cycladic Detachment System. Hence, we propose a model of progressive exhumation also based on available radiochronological constraints, first in the subduction channel of the Hellenic subduction, then in the backarc region with the same top-to-the-NE non-coaxial component of shearing. This reconstruction partly explains the different degrees of retrogression observed on the Cycladic Islands. The main discontinuities allowing this exhumation are the Vari Detachment (cropping out on Tinos and Syros islands) during the syn-orogenic period (Eocene) and then the NCDS and WCDS afterward.

An Analysis of Terrestrial and Aquatic Environmental Controls of Riverine Dissolved Organic Carbon in the Conterminous United States

DOE PAGES

Yang, Qichun; Zhang, Xuesong; Xu, Xingya; ...

2017-05-29

Riverine carbon cycling is an important, but insufficiently investigated component of the global carbon cycle. Analyses of environmental controls on riverine carbon cycling are critical for improved understanding of mechanisms regulating carbon processing and storage along the terrestrial-aquatic continuum. Here, we compile and analyze riverine dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration data from 1402 United States Geological Survey (USGS) gauge stations to examine the spatial variability and environmental controls of DOC concentrations in the United States (U.S.) surface waters. DOC concentrations exhibit high spatial variability, with an average of 6.42 ± 6.47 mg C/ L (Mean ± Standard Deviation). In general,more » high DOC concentrations occur in the Upper Mississippi River basin and the Southeastern U.S., while low concentrations are mainly distributed in the Western U.S. Single-factor analysis indicates that slope of drainage areas, wetlands, forests, percentage of first-order streams, and instream nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus) pronouncedly influence DOC concentrations, but the explanatory power of each bivariate model is lower than 35%. Analyses based on the general multi-linear regression models suggest DOC concentrations are jointly impacted by multiple factors. Soil properties mainly show positive correlations with DOC concentrations; forest and shrub lands have positive correlations with DOC concentrations, but urban area and croplands demonstrate negative impacts; total instream phosphorus and dam density correlate positively with DOC concentrations. Notably, the relative importance of these environmental controls varies substantially across major U.S. water resource regions. In addition, DOC concentrations and environmental controls also show significant variability from small streams to large rivers, which may be caused by changing carbon sources and removal rates by river orders. In sum, our results reveal that general multi-linear regression analysis of twenty one terrestrial and aquatic environmental factors can partially explain (56%) the DOC concentration variation. In conclusion, this study highlights the complexity of the interactions among these environmental factors in determining DOC concentrations, thus calls for processes-based, non-linear methodologies to constrain uncertainties in riverine DOC cycling.« less

ExoMars Mission 2016, Orbiter Module Power System Architecture (Based On An Unregulated Bus & MPPT Controlled Step-Down Voltage Regulators)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Digoin, JJ.; Boutelet, E.

2011-10-01

The main objective of the ExoMars program is to demonstrate key flight in situ enabling technologies in support of the European ambitions for future exploration missions and to pursue fundamental scientific investigations. Two missions are foreseen within the ExoMars program for the 2016 and 2018 launch opportunities to Mars. The 2016 mission is an ESA led mission that will supply a Mars Orbiter Module (OM) carrying an Entry Descent module (EDM) and NASA/ESA scientific instruments. The 2018 mission is a NASA led mission bringing one ESA rover and one NASA rover onto the Mars surface. This paper presents the OM Electrical Power Sub- system (EPS) design achieved at the end of pre- development phase. The main aspects addressed are: - EPS major constraints due to mission and environment, a succinct description of the power units, - Trade-off analyses results leading to the selected EPS architecture, - Preliminary results of electrical and energy simulations, - EPS units development plan.

A Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Trial of Cerebrospinal Fluid Drainage in Acute Spinal Cord Injury

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-10-01

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Nicholas Theodore, MD CONTRACTING ORGANIZATION: Dignity Health San Francisco, CA 94107-1773 REPORT DATE: October 2017...theodore@jhmi.edu 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) Dignity Health 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 185...at all three active centers, which include: Barrow Neurological Institute/Dignity Health (the main study site) in Arizona, the University of Arizona

Real-time control of hind limb functional electrical stimulation using feedback from dorsal root ganglia recordings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bruns, Tim M.; Wagenaar, Joost B.; Bauman, Matthew J.; Gaunt, Robert A.; Weber, Douglas J.

2013-04-01

Objective. Functional electrical stimulation (FES) approaches often utilize an open-loop controller to drive state transitions. The addition of sensory feedback may allow for closed-loop control that can respond effectively to perturbations and muscle fatigue. Approach. We evaluated the use of natural sensory nerve signals obtained with penetrating microelectrode arrays in lumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRG) as real-time feedback for closed-loop control of FES-generated hind limb stepping in anesthetized cats. Main results. Leg position feedback was obtained in near real-time at 50 ms intervals by decoding the firing rates of more than 120 DRG neurons recorded simultaneously. Over 5 m of effective linear distance was traversed during closed-loop stepping trials in each of two cats. The controller compensated effectively for perturbations in the stepping path when DRG sensory feedback was provided. The presence of stimulation artifacts and the quality of DRG unit sorting did not significantly affect the accuracy of leg position feedback obtained from the linear decoding model as long as at least 20 DRG units were included in the model. Significance. This work demonstrates the feasibility and utility of closed-loop FES control based on natural neural sensors. Further work is needed to improve the controller and electrode technologies and to evaluate long-term viability.

Real-time control of hind limb functional electrical stimulation using feedback from dorsal root ganglia recordings

PubMed Central

Bruns, Tim M; Wagenaar, Joost B; Bauman, Matthew J; Gaunt, Robert A; Weber, Douglas J

2013-01-01

Objective Functional electrical stimulation (FES) approaches often utilize an open-loop controller to drive state transitions. The addition of sensory feedback may allow for closed-loop control that can respond effectively to perturbations and muscle fatigue. Approach We evaluated the use of natural sensory nerve signals obtained with penetrating microelectrode arrays in lumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRG) as real-time feedback for closed-loop control of FES-generated hind limb stepping in anesthetized cats. Main results Leg position feedback was obtained in near real-time at 50 ms intervals by decoding the firing rates of more than 120 DRG neurons recorded simultaneously. Over 5 m of effective linear distance was traversed during closed-loop stepping trials in each of two cats. The controller compensated effectively for perturbations in the stepping path when DRG sensory feedback was provided. The presence of stimulation artifacts and the quality of DRG unit sorting did not significantly affect the accuracy of leg position feedback obtained from the linear decoding model as long as at least 20 DRG units were included in the model. Significance This work demonstrates the feasibility and utility of closed-loop FES control based on natural neural sensors. Further work is needed to improve the controller and electrode technologies and to evaluate long-term viability. PMID:23503062

Effect of peer-based low back pain information and reassurance at the workplace on sick leave: a cluster randomized trial.

PubMed

Odeen, Magnus; Ihlebæk, Camilla; Indahl, Aage; Wormgoor, Marjon E A; Lie, Stein A; Eriksen, Hege R

2013-06-01

To evaluate whether information and reassurance about low back pain (LBP) given to employees at the workplace could reduce sick leave. A Cluster randomized controlled trial with 135 work units of about 3,500 public sector employees in two Norwegian municipalities, randomized into two intervention groups; Education and peer support (EPS) (n = 45 units), education and "peer support and access to an outpatient clinic" (EPSOC) (n = 48 units), and a control group (n = 42 units). Both interventions consisted of educational meetings based on a "non-injury model" and a "peer adviser" appointed by colleagues. Employees in the EPSOC group had access to an outpatient clinic for medical examination and further education. The control group received no intervention. The main outcome was sick leave based on municipal records. Secondary outcomes were self-reported pain, pain related fear of movement, coping, and beliefs about LBP from survey data of 1,746 employees (response rate about 50 %). EPS reduced sick leave by 7 % and EPSOC reduced sick leave by 4 % during the intervention year, while sick leave in the control group was increased by 7 % during the same period. Overall, Rate Ratios (RR) were statistically significant for EPSOC (RR = .84 (C.I = 0.71-.99) but not EPS (RR = .92 (C.I = 0.78-1.09)) in a mixed Poisson regression analysis. Faulty beliefs about LBP were reduced in both intervention groups. Educational meetings, combined with peer support and access to an outpatient clinic, were effective in reducing sick leave in public sector employees.

Data analysis and integration of environmental sensors to meet human needs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santamaria, Amilcare Francesco; De Rango, Floriano; Barletta, Domenico; Falbo, Domenico; Imbrogno, Alessandro

2014-05-01

Nowadays one of the main task of technology is to make people's life simpler and easier. Ambient intelligence is an emerging discipline that brings intelligence to environments making them sensitive to us. This discipline has developed following the spread of sensors devices, sensor networks, pervasive computing and artificial intelligence. In this work, we attempt to enhance the Internet Of Things (loT) with intelligence and environments exploring various interactions between humans' beings and the environment they live in. In particular, the core of the system is composed of an automation system, which is made up with a domotic control unit and several sensors installed in the environment. The task of the sensors is to collect information from the environment and to send them to the control unit. Once the information is collected, the core combines them in order to infer the most accurate human needs. The knowledge of human needs and the current environment status compose the inputs of the intelligence block whose main goal is to find the right automations to satisfy human needs in a real time way. The system also provides a Speech Recognition service which allow users to interact with the system by their voice so human speech can be considered as additional input for smart automatisms.

Description of the Prometheus Program Alternator/Thruster Integration Laboratory (ATIL)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baez, Anastacio N.; Birchenough, Arthur G.; Lebron-Velilla, Ramon C.; Gonzalez, Marcelo C.

2005-01-01

The Project Prometheus Alternator Electric Thruster Integration Laboratory's (ATIL) primary two objectives are to obtain test data to influence the power conversion and electric propulsion systems design, and to assist in developing the primary power quality specifications prior to system Preliminary Design Review (PDR). ATIL is being developed in stages or configurations of increasing fidelity and complexity in order to support the various phases of the Prometheus program. ATIL provides a timely insight of the electrical interactions between a representative Permanent Magnet Generator, its associated control schemes, realistic electric system loads, and an operating electric propulsion thruster. The ATIL main elements are an electrically driven 100 kWe Alternator Test Unit (ATU), an alternator controller using parasitic loads, and a thruster Power Processing Unit (PPU) breadboard. This paper describes the ATIL components, its development approach, preliminary integration test results, and current status.

[Radiative and hygienic certification in Armed Forces, problems of its implementation and ways of perfection].

PubMed

Rusakov, V N; Cherkashin, A V; Shishkanov, A P; Ian'shin, L A; Gracheva, T N

2010-12-01

Radiative and hygienic passportization is one of the most actual pattern of socio and hygienic monitoring in Armed Forces. Radiative and hygienic passport is the main document which characterizes the safety control in military unit and uses the sources of ionizing radiation. Sanitary and epidemiologic institutions were imputed to control the formation of radiative and hygienic passports, analysis and generalization of its data, formation of conclusions about the condition of radiation security in the military units. According to radiative and hygienic passportization, which took place in 2009, the radiation security in the Armed Forces and organizations is satisfactory, but there are some problems of providing of radiation security of personnel under the professional and medical radiation. The salvation of its problems requires the effective work of official functionary of radiac object and institutions of state sanitary and epidemiological supervision in Armed Forces of Russian Federation.

ATWS analysis for Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant Unit 1

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

Dallman, R.J.; Jouse, W.C.

1985-01-01

Analyses of postulated Anticipated Transients Without Scram (ATWS) were performed at the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL). The Browns Ferry Nuclear Plant Unit 1 (BFNP1) was selected as the subject of this work because of the cooperation of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The work is part of the Severe Accident Sequence Analysis (SASA) Program of the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). A Main Steamline Isolation Valve (MSIV) closure served as the transient initiator for these analyses, which proceeded a complete failure to scram. Results from the analyses indicate that operator mitigative actions are required to prevent overpressurization of themore » primary containment. Uncertainties remain concerning the effectiveness of key mitigative actions. The effectiveness of level control as a power reduction procedure is limited. Power level resulting from level control only reduce the Pressure Suppression Pool (PSP) heatup rate from 6 to 4F/min.« less

Women in the Persian Gulf: lack of gender differences in long-term health effects of service in United Kingdom Armed Forces in the 1991 Persian Gulf War.

PubMed

Unwin, Catherine; Hotopf, Matthew; Hull, Lisa; Ismail, Khalida; David, Anthony; Wessely, Simon

2002-05-01

A cross-sectional postal survey was conducted to evaluate the health of a random sample of United Kingdom Armed Forces personnel who were deployed to the 1990-1991 Persian Gulf conflict compared with nondeployed controls and controls deployed to Bosnia. The health of service women was examined and compared with that of United Kingdom service men. The main outcome measures were physical symptoms and ailments, functional capacity on the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey, the 12-item General Health Questionnaire, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention multisymptom criteria for Gulf War illness, and post-traumatic stress reactions. There were 645 (65.3%) valid responses. The women from the Gulf cohort reported each symptom and the majority of health outcomes more frequently than either control group. No gender differences were found for 32 of the 50 symptoms assessed. Of the remaining 18 symptoms, women reported significantly more than men for only 6 of them, and there were no gender differences in 5 of the 6 principal health outcome measures. Women deployed to the Persian Gulf had similar rates of ill health as their male counterparts. Nothing was found to suggest that, other than for gender-specific health effects, any special considerations need to be made on health grounds for service women in any future deployments.

The Parent Control in the Mechanical Engineering Management-Holding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Šnircová, Jana; Hodulíková, Petra; Joehnk, Peter

2012-12-01

The group of entities under the control of parent, so called holding, is arisen as the result and the most often used form of the business concentration nowadays. The paper is focused to find special tasks of parent company for to preserve effective unified economic control in the management-holding. The unified economic control the holding exists in the conditions of the main conflict of interest - holding is not a legal but economic unit and the connected companies into it have a legal autonomy with the economic dependence. The unified economic control limits the financial independence of every individual company of the holding. The attention in the paper is concentrated to the management concept of the parent control, i.e. the parent company supervises the control of intragroup flows and all of subsidiaries production activities.

An advanced pitch change mechanism incorporating a hybrid traction drive

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steinetz, B. M.; Sargisson, D. F.; White, G.; Loewenthal, S. H.

1984-01-01

A design of a propeller pitch control mechanism is described that meets the demanding requirements of a high-power, advanced turboprop. In this application, blade twisting moment torque can be comparable to that of the main reduction gearbox output: precise pitch control, reliability and compactness are all at a premium. A key element in the design is a compact, high-ratio hybrid traction drive which offers low torque ripple and high torsional stiffness. The traction drive couples a high speed electric motor/alternator unit to a ball screw that actuates the blade control links. The technical merits of this arrangement and the performance characteristics of the traction drive are discussed. Comparisons are made to the more conventional pitch control mechanisms.

Apollo experience report: Lunar module environmental control subsystem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gillen, R. J.; Brady, J. C.; Collier, F.

1972-01-01

A functional description of the environmental control subsystem is presented. Development, tests, checkout, and flight experiences of the subsystem are discussed; and the design fabrication, and operational difficulties associated with the various components and subassemblies are recorded. Detailed information is related concerning design changes made to, and problems encountered with, the various elements of the subsystem, such as the thermal control water sublimator, the carbon dioxide sensing and control units, and the water section. The problems associated with water sterilization, water/glycol formulation, and materials compatibility are discussed. The corrective actions taken are described with the expection that this information may be of value for future subsystems. Although the main experiences described are problem oriented, the subsystem has generally performed satisfactorily in flight.

In-Trail Procedure Air Traffic Control Procedures Validation Simulation Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chartrand, Ryan C.; Hewitt, Katrin P.; Sweeney, Peter B.; Graff, Thomas J.; Jones, Kenneth M.

2012-01-01

In August 2007, Airservices Australia (Airservices) and the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) conducted a validation experiment of the air traffic control (ATC) procedures associated with the Automatic Dependant Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) In-Trail Procedure (ITP). ITP is an Airborne Traffic Situation Awareness (ATSA) application designed for near-term use in procedural airspace in which ADS-B data are used to facilitate climb and descent maneuvers. NASA and Airservices conducted the experiment in Airservices simulator in Melbourne, Australia. Twelve current operational air traffic controllers participated in the experiment, which identified aspects of the ITP that could be improved (mainly in the communication and controller approval process). Results showed that controllers viewed the ITP as valid and acceptable. This paper describes the experiment design and results.

Smart Inverter Control and Operation for Distributed Energy Resources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tazay, Ahmad F.

The motivation of this research is to carry out the control and operation of smart inverters and voltage source converters (VSC) for distributed energy resources (DERs) such as photovoltaic (PV), battery, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV). The main contribution of the research includes solving a couple of issues for smart grids by controlling and implementing multifunctions of VSC and smart inverter as well as improving the operational scheme of the microgrid. The work is mainly focused on controlling and operating of smart inverter since it promises a new technology for the future microgrid. Two major applications of the smart inverter will be investigated in this work based on the connection modes: microgrid at grid-tied mode and autonomous mode. In grid-tied connection, the smart inverter and VSC are used to integrate DER such as Photovoltaic (PV) and battery to provide suitable power to the system by controlling the supplied real and reactive power. The role of a smart inverter at autonomous mode includes supplying a sufficient voltage and frequency, mitigate abnormal condition of the load as well as equally sharing the total load's power. However, the operational control of the microgrid still has a major issue on the operation of the microgrid. The dissertation is divided into two main sections which are: 1. Low-level control of a single smart Inverter. 2. High-level control of the microgrid. The first part investigates a comprehensive research for a smart inverter and VSC technology at the two major connections of the microgrid. This involves controlling and modeling single smart inverter and VSC to solve specific issues of microgrid as well as improve the operation of the system. The research provides developed features for smart inverter comparing with a conventional voltage sourced converter (VSC). The two main connections for a microgrid have been deeply investigated to analyze a better way to develop and improve the operational procedure of the microgrid as well as solve specific issues of connecting the microgrid to the system. A detailed procedure for controlling VSC and designing an optimal operation of the controller is also covered in the first part of the dissertation. This section provides an optimal operation for controlling motor drive and demonstrates issues when motor load exists at an autonomous microgrid. It also provides a solution for specific issues at operating a microgrid at autonomous mode as well as improving the structural design for the grid-tied microgrid. The solution for autonomous microgrid includes changing the operational state of the switching pattern of the smart inverter to solve the issue of a common mode voltage (CMV) that appears across the motor load. It also solves the issue of power supplying to large loads, such as induction motors. The last section of the low-level section involves an improvement of the performance and operation of the PV charging station for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) at grid-tied mode. This section provides a novel structure and smart controller for PV charging station using three-phase hybrid boost converter topology. It also provides a form of applications of a multifunction smart inverter using PV charging station. The second part of the research is focusing on improving the performance of the microgrid by integrating several smart inverters to form a microgrid. It investigates the issue of connecting DER units with the microgrid at real applications. One of the common issues of the microgrid is the circulating current which is caused by poor reactive power sharing accuracy. When more than two DER units are connected in parallel, a microgrid is forming be generating required power for the load. When the microgrid is operated at autonomous mode, all DER units participate in generating voltage and frequency as well as share the load's power. This section provides a smart and novel controlling technique to solve the issue of unequal power sharing. The feature of the smart inverter is realized by the communication link between smart inverters and the main operator. The analysis and derivation of the problem are presented in this section. The dissertation has led to two accepted conference papers, one accepted transaction IEEE manuscript, and one submitted IET transaction manuscript. The future work aims to improve the current work by investigating the performance of the smart inverter at real applications.

Aperiodic linear networked control considering variable channel delays: application to robots coordination.

PubMed

Santos, Carlos; Espinosa, Felipe; Santiso, Enrique; Mazo, Manuel

2015-05-27

One of the main challenges in wireless cyber-physical systems is to reduce the load of the communication channel while preserving the control performance. In this way, communication resources are liberated for other applications sharing the channel bandwidth. The main contribution of this work is the design of a remote control solution based on an aperiodic and adaptive triggering mechanism considering the current network delay of multiple robotics units. Working with the actual network delay instead of the maximum one leads to abandoning this conservative assumption, since the triggering condition is fixed depending on the current state of the network. This way, the controller manages the usage of the wireless channel in order to reduce the channel delay and to improve the availability of the communication resources. The communication standard under study is the widespread IEEE 802.11g, whose channel delay is clearly uncertain. First, the adaptive self-triggered control is validated through the TrueTime simulation tool configured for the mentioned WiFi standard. Implementation results applying the aperiodic linear control laws on four P3-DX robots are also included. Both of them demonstrate the advantage of this solution in terms of network accessing and control performance with respect to periodic and non-adaptive self-triggered alternatives.

Hierarchical control of two-dimensional gaze saccades

PubMed Central

Optican, Lance M.; Blohm, Gunnar; Lefèvre, Philippe

2014-01-01

Coordinating the movements of different body parts is a challenging process for the central nervous system because of several problems. Four of these main difficulties are: first, moving one part can move others; second, the parts can have different dynamics; third, some parts can have different motor goals; and fourth, some parts may be perturbed by outside forces. Here, we propose a novel approach for the control of linked systems with feedback loops for each part. The proximal parts have separate goals, but critically the most distal part has only the common goal. We apply this new control policy to eye-head coordination in two-dimensions, specifically head-unrestrained gaze saccades. Paradoxically, the hierarchical structure has controllers for the gaze and the head, but not for the eye (the most distal part). Our simulations demonstrate that the proposed control structure reproduces much of the published empirical data about gaze movements, e.g., it compensates for perturbations, accurately reaches goals for gaze and head from arbitrary initial positions, simulates the nine relationships of the head-unrestrained main sequence, and reproduces observations from lesion and single-unit recording experiments. We conclude by showing how our model can be easily extended to control structures with more linked segments, such as the control of coordinated eye on head on trunk movements. PMID:24062206

Intelligent Articulated Robot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nyein, Aung Kyaw; Thu, Theint Theint

2008-10-01

In this paper, an articulated type of industrial used robot is discussed. The robot is mainly intended to be used in pick and place operation. It will sense the object at the specified place and move it to a desired location. A peripheral interface controller (PIC16F84A) is used as the main controller of the robot. Infrared LED and IR receiver unit for object detection and 4-bit bidirectional universal shift registers (74LS194) and high current and high voltage Darlington transistors arrays (ULN2003) for driving the arms' motors are used in this robot. The amount of rotation for each arm is regulated by the limit switches. The operation of the robot is very simple but it has the ability of to overcome resetting position after power failure. It can continue its work from the last position before the power is failed without needing to come back to home position.

Effectiveness of an acoustical product in reducing high-frequency sound within unoccupied incubators.

PubMed

Kellam, Barbara; Bhatia, Jatinder

2009-08-01

Few noise measurement studies in the neonatal intensive care unit have reported sound frequencies within incubators. Sound frequencies within incubators are markedly different from sound frequencies within the gravid uterus. This article reports the results of sound spectral analysis (SSA) within unoccupied incubators under control and treatment conditions. SSA indicated that acoustical foam panels (treatment condition) markedly reduced sound frequencies > or =500 Hz when compared with the control condition. The main findings of this study (a) illustrate the need to monitor high-frequency sound within incubators and (b) indicate one method to reduce atypical sound exposure within incubators.

DESIGN OF A PATTERN RECOGNITION DIGITAL COMPUTER WITH APPLICATION TO THE AUTOMATIC SCANNING OF BUBBLE CHAMBER NEGATIVES

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

McCormick, B.H.; Narasimhan, R.

1963-01-01

The overall computer system contains three main parts: an input device, a pattern recognition unit (PRU), and a control computer. The bubble chamber picture is divided into a grid of st run. Concent 1-mm squares on the film. It is then processed in parallel in a two-dimensional array of 1024 identical processing modules (stalactites) of the PRU. The array can function as a two- dimensional shift register in which results of successive shifting operations can be accumulated. The pattern recognition process is generally controlled by a conventional arithmetic computer. (A.G.W.)

The effect of inquiry based science instruction on student understanding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nail, Jessica Lynette

According to the TIMSS Study (2007), the United States is falling behind in the subjects of math and science. In order for the students in the United States to develop scientific literacy and remain competitive globally, inquiry must be the priority when teaching science (NRC, 1996; AAAS, 1990). The main purpose of this research was to see if inquiry-based instruction in the science classroom had a significant effect on student understanding and retention of information in a rural school in Virginia. The effect of inquiry-based science instruction on gender was also examined. The researcher implemented a four-week, inquiry-based unit on Virginia Sol 6.7, written in the 5 E learning style to 358 sixth-grade students and compared their posttest gains and delayed posttest scores to a control group consisting of 268 students. The control group received traditional teaching methods. The results for the posttest gains produced a p = 0.01. Therefore, there was a significant difference in the experimental group, which received the treatment, when compared to the control group, which did not receive treatment. A t test was also used to compare the delayed test scores of the experimental group to the control group. The results showed a p < 0.0001 when comparing the experimental group, which received the four-week inquiry-based science instruction treatment, to the control, which did not receive the treatment. This t test showed a very highly significant difference between the experimental group and the control group. Based on these results, it is imperative that Virginia begin implementing inquiry-based instruction in the science classroom.

1 ATM subcooled liquid nitrogen cryogenic system with GM-refrigerator for a HTS power transformer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoshida, S.; Ohashi, K.; Umeno, T.; Suzuki, Y.; Kamioka, Y.; Kimura, H.; Tsutsumi, K.; Iwakuma, M.; Funaki, K.; Bhono, T.; Yagi, Y.

2002-05-01

A subcooled liquid nitrogen cryogenic system with GM-refrigerators was developed. The system was operated successfully in a commercial distribution power grid for three consecutive weeks without additional liquid nitrogen supply. The system consists of two main units. One is a HTS transformer unit and the HTS transformer is installed in a G-FRP cryostat. The other one is a pump unit. The pump unit has a liquid nitrogen pump and two GM-refrigerators of 290 W at 64 K for 50 Hz operation in a stainless steel dewar. The refrigerator cold heads are immersed in liquid nitrogen and produce directly subcooled liquid nitrogen in the pump unit. Those two units are connected by transfer-tubes and 1 atmosphere (0.1 MPa) subcooled liquid nitrogen is circulated through the system. In the field test, the refrigerators were operated at 60 Hz and it took 12 hours to cool the transformer down to 70 K and 26 hours to 66 K. The refrigerator cold heads were controlled not to be below 64 K during operation. In spite of a heat generation by the HTS transformer, the subcooled liquid nitrogen temperature in the HTS transformer unit was kept lower than 68 K.

An advanced pitch change mechanism incorporating a hybrid traction drive

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Steinetz, B. M.; Loewenthal, S. H.; Sargisson, D. F.; White, G.

1984-01-01

A design of a propeller pitch control mechanism is described that meets the demanding requirements of a high-power, advanced turboprop. In this application, blade twisting moment torque can be comparable to that of the main reduction gearbox output: precise pitch control, reliability and compactness are all at a premium. A key element in the design is a compact, high-ratio hybrid traction drive which offers low torque ripple and high torsional stiffness. The traction drive couples a high speed electric motor/alternator unit to a ball screw that actuates the blade control links. The technical merits of this arrangement and the performance characteristics of the traction drive are discussed.

Interior view, main entry lobby on Fourteenth Street United ...

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

Interior view, main entry lobby on Fourteenth Street - United States Department of Commerce, Bounded by Fourteenth, Fifteenth, and E streets and Constitution Avenue, Washington, District of Columbia, DC

A compact, low jitter, nanosecond rise time, high voltage pulse generator with variable amplitude.

PubMed

Mao, Jiubing; Wang, Xin; Tang, Dan; Lv, Huayi; Li, Chengxin; Shao, Yanhua; Qin, Lan

2012-07-01

In this paper, a compact, low jitter, nanosecond rise time, command triggered, high peak power, gas-switch pulse generator system is developed for high energy physics experiment. The main components of the system are a high voltage capacitor, the spark gap switch and R = 50 Ω load resistance built into a structure to obtain a fast high power pulse. The pulse drive unit, comprised of a vacuum planar triode and a stack of avalanche transistors, is command triggered by a single or multiple TTL (transistor-transistor logic) level pulses generated by a trigger pulse control unit implemented using the 555 timer circuit. The control unit also accepts user input TTL trigger signal. The vacuum planar triode in the pulse driving unit that close the first stage switches is applied to drive the spark gap reducing jitter. By adjusting the charge voltage of a high voltage capacitor charging power supply, the pulse amplitude varies from 5 kV to 10 kV, with a rise time of <3 ns and the maximum peak current up to 200 A (into 50 Ω). The jitter of the pulse generator system is less than 1 ns. The maximum pulse repetition rate is set at 10 Hz that limited only by the gas-switch and available capacitor recovery time.

A configurable electronics system for the ESS-Bilbao beam position monitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muguira, L.; Belver, D.; Etxebarria, V.; Varnasseri, S.; Arredondo, I.; del Campo, M.; Echevarria, P.; Garmendia, N.; Feuchtwanger, J.; Jugo, J.; Portilla, J.

2013-09-01

A versatile and configurable system has been developed in order to monitorize the beam position and to meet all the requirements of the future ESS-Bilbao Linac. At the same time the design has been conceived to be open and configurable so that it could eventually be used in different kinds of accelerators, independent of the charged particle, with minimal change. The design of the Beam Position Monitors (BPMs) system includes a test bench both for button-type pick-ups (PU) and striplines (SL), the electronic units and the control system. The electronic units consist of two main parts. The first part is an Analog Front-End (AFE) unit where the RF signals are filtered, conditioned and converted to base-band. The second part is a Digital Front-End (DFE) unit which is based on an FPGA board where the base-band signals are sampled in order to calculate the beam position, the amplitude and the phase. To manage the system a Multipurpose Controller (MC) developed at ESSB has been used. It includes the FPGA management, the EPICS integration and Archiver Instances. A description of the system and a comparison between the performance of both PU and SL BPM designs measured with this electronics system are fully described and discussed.

Aircraft panel with sensorless active sound power reduction capabilities through virtual mechanical impedances

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boulandet, R.; Michau, M.; Micheau, P.; Berry, A.

2016-01-01

This paper deals with an active structural acoustic control approach to reduce the transmission of tonal noise in aircraft cabins. The focus is on the practical implementation of the virtual mechanical impedances method by using sensoriactuators instead of conventional control units composed of separate sensors and actuators. The experimental setup includes two sensoriactuators developed from the electrodynamic inertial exciter and distributed over an aircraft trim panel which is subject to a time-harmonic diffuse sound field. The target mechanical impedances are first defined by solving a linear optimization problem from sound power measurements before being applied to the test panel using a complex envelope controller. Measured data are compared to results obtained with sensor-actuator pairs consisting of an accelerometer and an inertial exciter, particularly as regards sound power reduction. It is shown that the two types of control unit provide similar performance, and that here virtual impedance control stands apart from conventional active damping. In particular, it is clear from this study that extra vibrational energy must be provided by the actuators for optimal sound power reduction, mainly due to the high structural damping in the aircraft trim panel. Concluding remarks on the benefits of using these electrodynamic sensoriactuators to control tonal disturbances are also provided.

Electronic remote blood issue combined with a computer-controlled, automated refrigerator for major surgery in operating theatres at a distance from the transfusion service.

PubMed

Verlicchi, Franco; Pacilli, Pasqua; Bragliani, Arianna; Rapuano, Silvia; Dini, Daniele; Vincenzi, Daniele

2018-02-01

The difficulty of supplying red blood cells within an adequate time to patients undergoing surgery is a known problem for transfusion services, particularly if the operating theater is located at some distance from the blood bank. The consequences frequently are that more blood is ordered than required; several units are allocated and issued; and unused units must be returned to the blood bank. Some sparse reports have demonstrated that remote blood issue systems can improve the efficiency of issuing blood. This study describes a computer-controlled, self-service, remote blood-release system, combined with an automated refrigerator, installed in a hospital at which major surgery was performed, located 5 kilometers away from the transfusion service. With this system, red blood cell units were electronically allocated to patients immediately before release, when the units actually were needed. Two 2-year periods, before and after implementation of the system, were compared. After implementation of the system, the ratio of red blood cell units returned to the transfusion service was reduced from 48.9% to 1.6% of the issued units (8852 of 18,090 vs. 182 of 11,152 units; p < 0.0001), and the issue-to-transfusion ratio was reduced from 1.96 to 1.02. An increase in the number of transfused red blood cell units was observed, probably mainly due to changes in the number and complexity of surgical procedures. No transfusion errors occurred in the two periods. The current results demonstrate that the remote blood-release system is safe and useful for improving the efficiency of blood issue for patients in remote operating theatres. © 2017 AABB.

Space shuttle main engine controller assembly, phase C-D. [with lagging system design and analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

System design and system analysis and simulation are slightly behind schedule, while design verification testing has improved. Input/output circuit design has improved, but digital computer unit (DCU) and mechanical design continue to lag. Part procurement was impacted by delays in printed circuit board, assembly drawing releases. These are the result of problems in generating suitable printed circuit artwork for the very complex and high density multilayer boards.

The Effect of Distributed Practice Homework on Precalculus Achievement at a Military Academy.

DTIC Science & Technology

1996-04-08

This study investigated the main effect of distributive practice homework on achievement in Precalculus . This study also investigated the aptitude...achievement in Precalculus . The sample consisted of 351 United States Air Force Academy cadets (experimental n = 161, control n = 190), all in their first...achievement. A subset of the Math Anxiety Rating Scale developed by Alexander and Martray (1989) was used as the measure of mathematics anxiety. Precalculus

Sustainability Engineering and Maintenance - Plan, Design, and Construct for Maintainability: Sustainable Lighting Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-01-01

Window film should be considered to control heat gain. Skylights when positioned and spaced properly with the proper lens systems, admit more light...per unit area than windows, and distribute the light more evenly over the space. Skylights are mainly recommended in single floor high bay...facilities such as warehouses, hangars, gymnasiums, and big box stores.  The optimum material to use for skylights is either glass or acrylic. Double

Effects of organic matter removal and soil compaction on fifth-year mineral soil carbon and nitrogen contents for sites across the United States and Canada

Treesearch

Felipe G. Sanchez; Allan E. Tiarks; J. Marty Kranabetter; Deborah S. Page-Dumroese; Robert F. Powers; Paul T. Sanborn; William K. Chapman

2006-01-01

This study describes the main treatment effects of organic matter removal and compaction and a split-plot effect of competition control on mineral soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) pools. Treatment effects on soil C and N pools are discussed for 19 sites across five locations (British Columbia, Northern Rocky Mountains, Pacific Southwest, and Atlantic and Gulf coasts)...

United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan: Background and Policy Issues

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-14

mainly through U.N. agencies and NGOs. 6 In 2007, Afghanistan placed 174th out of 178 countries on global rankings of the Human Development Index ( HDI ...and other insurgents to reestablish control of some areas of the country have slowed the pace and extent of economic development and the expansion of...improvement throughout the country . The international recovery and reconstruction effort in Afghanistan is immense and complicated and, in coordination

Control strategies against Campylobacter at the poultry production level: biosecurity measures, feed additives and vaccination.

PubMed

Meunier, M; Guyard-Nicodème, M; Dory, D; Chemaly, M

2016-05-01

Campylobacteriosis is the most prevalent bacterial foodborne gastroenteritis affecting humans in the European Union, and ranks second in the United States only behind salmonellosis. In Europe, there are about nine million cases of campylobacteriosis every year, making the disease a major public health issue. Human cases are mainly caused by the zoonotic pathogen Campylobacter jejuni. The main source of contamination is handling or consumption of poultry meat. Poultry constitutes the main reservoir of Campylobacter, substantial quantities of which are found in the intestines following rapid, intense colonization. Reducing Campylobacter levels in the poultry chain would decrease the incidence of human campylobacteriosis. As primary production is a crucial step in Campylobacter poultry contamination, controlling the infection at this level could impact the following links along the food chain (slaughter, retail and consumption). This review describes the control strategies implemented during the past few decades in primary poultry production, including the most recent studies. In fact, the implementation of biosecurity and hygiene measures is described, as well as the immune strategy with passive immunization and vaccination trials and the nutritional strategy with the administration of organic and fatty acids, essential oil and plant-derived compound, probiotics, bacteriocins and bacteriophages. © 2015 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

Health and rescue services management system during a crisis event

PubMed Central

Nicolaidou, Iolie; Hadjichristofi, George; Kyprianou, Stelios; Christou, Synesios; Constantinou, Riana

2016-01-01

Τhe performance of rescuers and personnel handling major emergencies or crisis events can be significantly improved through continuous training and through technology support. The work done in order to create a system has been discussed which can support both resources and victims during a crisis or major emergency event. More specifically, the system supports real-time management of firefighter teams, rescue teams, health services, and victims during a major disaster. It can be deployed in an ad hoc manner in the disaster area, as a stand-alone infrastructure (using its own telecommunications and power). It mainly consists of a control station, which is installed in the area command centre, the firefighters units, the rescuers units, the ambulance vehicles units, and the telemedicine units that can be used in order to support victim handling at the casualties clearing station. The system has been tested and improved through continuous communication with experts and through professional exercises; the results and conclusions are presented. PMID:27733928

[Magnetotherapy of initial manifestations of cerebrovascular disorders in hypertension].

PubMed

Miasnikov, I G

1992-01-01

The paper is concerned with the data on 147 subjects who underwent magnetotherapy with the unit "Magniter-AMT-01" applied to the cervical area. The main group included 102 subjects, 45 person served as control. The purpose of the work was to base the application of MT under inpatient and home conditions with the use of the above-indicated unit. In view of this fact, a study was made of cerebral hemo- and thermodynamics with the aid of rheoencephalography and encephaloradiothermography under the action of different modes of the functioning of the unit "Magniter-AMT-01" (pulse and variable magnet induction fields 12-15 mTl and 30-35 mTl). A method of measuring magnetosensitivity of patients depending on the temperature reaction of the brain to a single MT session was elaborated. The greatest clinical effect was attained with the use of pulse magnetic field 15 mTl. Magnetotherapy with the use of the unit "Magniter-AMT-01" provided good results under inpatient and home conditions. The magnetosensitive patients demonstrated the highest effect.

Nonlinear model predictive control applied to the separation of praziquantel in simulated moving bed chromatography.

PubMed

Andrade Neto, A S; Secchi, A R; Souza, M B; Barreto, A G

2016-10-28

An adaptive nonlinear model predictive control of a simulated moving bed unit for the enantioseparation of praziquantel is presented. A first principle model was applied at the proposed purity control scheme. The main concern about this kind of model in a control framework is in regard to the computational effort to solve it; however, a fast enough solution was achieved. In order to evaluate the controller's performance, several cases were simulated, including external pumps and switching valve malfunctions. The problem of plant-model mismatch was also investigated, and for that reason a parameter estimation step was introduced in the control strategy. In every studied scenario, the controller was able to maintain the purity levels at their set points, which were set to 99% and 98.6% for extract and raffinate, respectively. Additionally, fast responses and smooth actuation were achieved. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

An afocal telescope configuration for the ESA Ariel mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Da Deppo, V.; Middleton, K.; Focardi, M.; Morgante, G.; Pace, E.; Claudi, R.; Micela, G.

2017-09-01

ARIEL (Atmospheric Remote-sensing Infrared Exoplanet Large-survey) is one of the three candidates for the next ESA medium-class science mission (M4) expected to be launched in 2026. This mission will be devoted to observing spectroscopically in the infrared (IR) a large population of known transiting planets in the neighborhood of the Solar System, opening a new discovery space in the field of extrasolar planets and enabling the understanding of the physics and chemistry of these far away worlds. ARIEL is based on a 1-m class telescope ahead of two spectrometer channels covering the band 1.95 to 7.8 microns. In addition there are four photometric channels: two wide band, also used as fine guidance sensors, and two narrow band. During its 3.5 years of operations from L2 orbit, ARIEL will continuously observe exoplanets transiting their host star. The ARIEL optical design is conceived as a fore-module common afocal telescope that will feed the spectrometer and photometric channels. The telescope optical design is composed of an off-axis portion of a two-mirror classic Cassegrain coupled to a tertiary off-axis paraboloidal mirror. The telescope and optical bench operating temperatures, as well as those of some subsystems, will be monitored and fine tuned/stabilised mainly by means of a thermal control subsystem (TCU-Telescope Control Unit) working in closed-loop feedback and hosted by the main Payload electronics unit, the Instrument Control Unit (ICU). Another important function of the TCU will be to monitor the telescope and optical bench thermistors when the Payload decontamination heaters will be switched on (when operating the instrument in Decontamination Mode) during the Commissioning Phase and cyclically, if required. Then the thermistors data will be sent by the ICU to the On Board Computer by means of a proper formatted telemetry. The latter (OBC) will be in charge of switching on and off the decontamination heaters on the basis of the thermistors readout values.

Stressors in the relatives of patients admitted to an intensive care unit.

PubMed

Barth, Angélica Adam; Weigel, Bruna Dorfey; Dummer, Claus Dieter; Machado, Kelly Campara; Tisott, Taís Montagner

2016-09-01

To identify and stratify the main stressors for the relatives of patients admitted to the adult intensive care unit of a teaching hospital. Cross-sectional descriptive study conducted with relatives of patients admitted to an intensive care unit from April to October 2014. The following materials were used: a questionnaire containing identification information and demographic data of the relatives, clinical data of the patients, and 25 stressors adapted from the Intensive Care Unit Environmental Stressor Scale. The degree of stress caused by each factor was determined on a scale of values from 1 to 4. The stressors were ranked based on the average score obtained. The main cause of admission to the intensive care unit was clinical in 36 (52.2%) cases. The main stressors were the patient being in a state of coma (3.15 ± 1.23), the patient being unable to speak (3.15 ± 1.20), and the reason for admission (3.00 ± 1.27). After removing the 27 (39.1%) coma patients from the analysis, the main stressors for the relatives were the reason for admission (2.75 ± 1.354), seeing the patient in the intensive care unit (2.51 ± 1.227), and the patient being unable to speak (2.50 ± 1.269). Difficulties in communication and in the relationship with the patient admitted to the intensive care unit were identified as the main stressors by their relatives, with the state of coma being predominant. By contrast, the environment, work routines, and relationship between the relatives and intensive care unit team had the least impact as stressors.

Quality of Care for White and Hispanic Medicare Advantage Enrollees in the United States and Puerto Rico

PubMed Central

Rivera-Hernandez, Maricruz; Leyva, Bryan; Keohane, Laura M.; Trivedi, Amal N.

2016-01-01

IMPORTANCE Geographic, racial, and ethnic variations in quality of care and outcomes have been well documented among the Medicare population. Few data exist on beneficiaries living in Puerto Rico, three-quarters of whom enroll in Medicare Advantage (MA). OBJECTIVE To determine the quality of care provided to white and Hispanic MA enrollees in the United States and Puerto Rico. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A cross-sectional study of MA enrollees in 2011 was conducted, including white enrollees in the United States (n = 6 289 374), Hispanic enrollees in the United States (n = 795 039), and Hispanic enrollees in Puerto Rico (n = 267 016). The study was conducted from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2011; data analysis took place from January 19, 2015, to January 2, 2016. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Seventeen performance measures related to diabetes mellitus (including hemoglobin A1c control, retinal eye examination, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol control, nephropathy screening, and blood pressure control), cardiovascular disease (including low-density lipoprotein cholesterol control, blood pressure control, and use of a β-blocker after myocardial infarction), cancer screening (colorectal and breast), and appropriate medications (including systemic corticosteroids and bronchodilators for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD] and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs). RESULTS Of the 7.35 million MA enrollees in the United States and Puerto Rico in our study, 1.06 million (14.4%) were Hispanic. Approximately 25.1% of all Hispanic MA enrollees resided in Puerto Rico, which was more than those residing in any state. For 15 of the 17 measures assessed, Hispanic MA enrollees in Puerto Rico received worse care compared with Hispanics in the United States, with absolute differences in performance rates ranging from 2.2 percentage points for blood pressure control in diabetes mellitus (P = .03) to 31.3 percentage points for use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug therapy (P < .01). Adjusted performance differences between Hispanic MA enrollees in Puerto Rico and Hispanic MA enrollees in the United States exceeded 20 percentage points for 3 measures: use of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug therapy (−23.8 percentage points [95% CI, −30.9 to −16.8]), use of systemic corticosteroid in COPD exacerbation (−21.3 percentage points [95% CI, −27.5 to −15.1]), and use of bronchodilator therapy in COPD exacerbation (−22.7 percentage points [95% CI, −27.7 to −17.6]). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE We found modest differences in care between white and Hispanic MA enrollees in the United States but substantially worse care for enrollees in Puerto Rico compared with their US counterparts. Major efforts are needed to improve care delivery on the island to a level equivalent to the United States. PMID:27111865

Engineering the Flow of Liquid Two-Phase Systems by Passive Noise Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Zeyi; Kong, Tiantian; Zhou, Chunmei; Wang, Liqiu

2018-02-01

We investigate a passive noise-control approach to engineering the two-phase flow in a microfluidic coflow system. The presence or absence of the jet breakup is studied for two immiscible oil phases, in a straight microchannel (referred to as the J device in the main text), an expansion microchannel (the W device) and a microchannel with the expansion-contraction geometry (the S device), respectively. We show that the jet breaks into droplets, in the jetting regime and the dripping regime (also referred to as the widening-jetting regime) for the straight channel and expansion channel, respectively, while a stable long jet does not break for the expansion-contraction geometry. As the inner phase passes the expansion-contraction functional unit, the random noise on the interface is significantly reduced and the hydrodynamic instability is suppressed, for a range of experimental parameters including flow rates, device geometry, liquid viscosity, and interfacial tension. We further present scale-up devices with multiple noise-control units and achieve decimeter-long yet stable jets. Our simple, effective, and robust noise-control approach can benefit microfluidic applications such as microfiber fabrication, interface chemical reaction, and on-chip distance transportation.

Gas-engine-based, low-emission cogeneration units

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

Chellini, R.

1994-04-01

Continental Energy Systems (CES) of Westmalle, Belgium, has been specializing, since its foundation in 1983, in the supply of cogeneration packages in the 50-300 KW power range. CES activity is mainly concentrated in the transformation of Valmet, Scania, Iveco and MAN diesel engines into spark-ignited engines capable of running on natural gas, CNG, LPG, biogas, landfill gas, etc. In the upper power range they also package Waukesha gas engines supplied from the Dutch plant of the American engine manufacturer. The new closed-loop combustion control system allows engines in the naturally-aspirated or turbocharged configuration with catalytic converters to operate well belowmore » Euro 2 limits. In fact, these engines already comply with 1995 CARB (California Air Resources Board) emission limits and with those that will become mandatory in Europe with the 1996 step. The new system still makes use of conventional components for metering and mixing functions, but these are considered as three separate devices; the electronic control unit, the oxygen sensor and an actuator enabling closed loop air/fuel ratio control. 4 figs.« less

A tailored educational intervention improves doctor's performance in managing depression: a randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Shirazi, Mandana; Lonka, Kirsti; Parikh, Sagar V; Ristner, Gunilla; Alaeddini, Farshid; Sadeghi, Majid; Wahlstrom, Rolf

2013-02-01

To assess the effects of a tailored and activating educational intervention, based on a three-stage modified Prochaska model of readiness-to-change, on the performance of general physicians in primary care (GPs) regarding management of depressive disorders. Parallel group, randomized control trial. Primary hypothesis was that performance would improve by 20 percentage units in the intervention arm. The setting was primary care in southern Tehran. The participants were 192 GPs stratified on stage of readiness-to-change, sex, age and work experience. The intervention was a 2-day interactive workshop for a small group of GPs' at a higher stage of readiness-to-change ('intention') and a 2-day interactive large group meeting for those with lower propensity to change ('attitude') at the pre-assessment. GPs in the control arm participated in a standard educational programme on the same topic. The main outcome measures were validated tools to assess GPs' performance by unannounced standardized patients, regarding diagnosis and treatment of depressive disorders. The assessments were made 2 months before and 2 months after the intervention. GPs in the intervention arm significantly improved their overall mean scores for performance regarding both diagnosis, with an intervention effect of 14 percentage units (P = 0.007), and treatment and referral, with an intervention effect of 20 percentage units (P < 0.0001). The largest improvement after the intervention appeared in the small group: 30 percentage units for diagnosis (P = 0.027) and 29 percentage units for treatment and referral (P < 0.0001). Activating learning methods, tailored according to the participants' readiness to change, improved clinical performance of GPs in continuing medical education and can be recommended for continuing professional development. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Forest management and water in the United States [Chapter 13

Treesearch

Daniel G. Neary

2017-01-01

This chapter outlines a brief history of the United States native forests and forest plantations. It describes the past and current natural and plantation forest distribution (map, area, main species), as well as main products produced (timber, pulp, furniture, etc.). Integrated into this discussion is a characterization of the water resources of the United States and...

The Rise and Decline of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme in the United Kingdom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bunnell, Tristan

2015-01-01

The three main programmes of the Geneva-registered International Baccalaureate (IB) have grown substantially worldwide over the past decade, although the programmes have found a natural "home" in the United States. This paper charts the growth of the IB in the United Kingdom (UK) revealing that involvement there, mainly in England and…

International Space Station Future Correlation Analysis Improvements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Laible, Michael R.; Pinnamaneni, Murthy; Sugavanam, Sujatha; Grygier, Michael

2018-01-01

Ongoing modal analyses and model correlation are performed on different configurations of the International Space Station (ISS). These analyses utilize on-orbit dynamic measurements collected using four main ISS instrumentation systems: External Wireless Instrumentation System (EWIS), Internal Wireless Instrumentation System (IWIS), Space Acceleration Measurement System (SAMS), and Structural Dynamic Measurement System (SDMS). Remote Sensor Units (RSUs) are network relay stations that acquire flight data from sensors. Measured data is stored in the Remote Sensor Unit (RSU) until it receives a command to download data via RF to the Network Control Unit (NCU). Since each RSU has its own clock, it is necessary to synchronize measurements before analysis. Imprecise synchronization impacts analysis results. A study was performed to evaluate three different synchronization techniques: (i) measurements visually aligned to analytical time-response data using model comparison, (ii) Frequency Domain Decomposition (FDD), and (iii) lag from cross-correlation to align measurements. This paper presents the results of this study.

Development of structural diagram of automated dispatch control system for power consumption at non-ferrous metallurgy enterprises

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klyuev, R. V.; Bosikov, I. I.; Madaeva, M. Z.; A-V Turluev, R.

2018-03-01

The structural scheme of the automated control system of power consumption at the industrial enterprise is developed in the article. At the non-ferrous metallurgy enterprise, an energy inspection and a rank analysis of the electrical energy consumption of the main processing equipment were carried out. It is established that the enterprises of non-ferrous metallurgy are a complex process system consisting of a set of thousands of jointly functioning technological facilities. For the most effective estimation of power consumption of enterprises, it is reasonable to use the automated system of dispatching control of power consumption (ASDCPC). The paper presents the results of the development of the ASDCPC structural diagram that allows one to perform on-line control and management of the energy and process parameters of the main production units and the enterprise as a whole. As a result of the introduction of ASDCPC at the non-ferrous metallurgy enterprise, the consumed active power was reduced during the peak hours of the load by 20%, the specific electricity consumption - by 14%, the cost of the energy component in the cost of production of hard alloys - by 3%.

Mechanisms of Corneal Pain and Implications for Postoperative Pain After Laser Correction of Refractive Errors.

PubMed

Garcia, Renato; de Andrade, Daniel C; Teixeira, Manoel J; Nozaki, Siro S; Bechara, Samir J

2016-05-01

The cornea is the target of most surgeries for refractive disorders, as myopia. It is estimated that almost 1 million patients undergo corneal refractive surgery each year in the United States. Refractive surgery includes photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) that produces intense postoperative pain. This review presents the main pain mechanisms behind PRK-related pain and the available therapeutic options for its management. Data sources included literature of cornea anatomy, treatment of PRK postoperative pain, mechanisms of corneal pain, in 3 electronic databases: Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Only double-blinded controlled trials on pain control after PRK were selected to show the endpoints, treatment, and control strategies. A total of 18 double-blind, controlled trials were identified. These studies have shown the use of topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, topical steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, systemic analgesics, cold balanced saline solution, topical anesthetic, gabapentin, and morphine to treat postoperative pain in PRK. The percentage of responders has seldom been reported, and few studies allow for the formal calculation of the number necessary to treat. Postoperative intense pain after PRK laser surgery remains the main challenge to its widespread use for the correction of refractive errors.

Alternative strategies for stroke care: a prospective randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Kalra, L; Evans, A; Perez, I; Knapp, M; Donaldson, N; Swift, C G

2000-09-09

Organised specialist care for stroke improves outcome, but the merits of different methods of organisation are in doubt. This study compares the efficacy of stroke unit with stroke team or domiciliary care. A single-blind, randomised, controlled trial was undertaken in 457 acute-stroke patients (average age 76 years, 48% women) randomly assigned to stroke unit, general wards with stroke team support, or domiciliary stroke care, within 72 h of stroke onset. Outcome was assessed at 3, 6, and 12 months. The primary outcome measure was death or institutionalisation at 12 months. Analyses were by intention to treat. 152 patients were allocated to the stroke unit, 152 to stroke team, and 153 to domiciliary stroke care. 51 (34%) patients in the domiciliary group were admitted to hospital after randomisation. Mortality or institutionalisation at 1 year were lower in patients on a stroke unit than for those receiving care from a stroke team (21/152 [14%] vs 45/149 [30%]; p<0.001) or domiciliary care (21/152 [14%] vs 34/144 [24%]; p=0.03), mainly as a result of reduction in mortality. The proportion of patients alive without severe disability at 1 year was also significantly higher on the stroke unit compared with stroke team (129/152 [85%] vs 99/149 [66%]; p<0.001) or domiciliary care (129/152 [85%] vs 102/144 [71%]; p=0.002). These differences were present at 3 and 6 months after stroke. Stroke units are more effective than a specialist stroke team or specialist domiciliary care in reducing mortality, institutionalisation, and dependence after stroke.

Deterrence Requirements and Arms Control Responsibilities: The United State’s Obligation to Ratify the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-02-17

systems to detect a nuclear explosion; seismic, hydroacoustic, infrasound , and radionuclide. These stations are able to detect a nuclear explosion as...These sites detect thousands of seismic events a year, mainly from earthquakes and mining explosions, and have proved effective in detecting past...that detect sound waves in the oceans, and the 60 infrasound stations above ground that detect ultra-low frequency sound waves emitted by nuclear

Pulsed Heterodyne CO2 Laser/Scanner System. Volume 1. Assembly Report.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-06-01

rack #2 houses the switches and variacs controlling the DC power rectifier, which is in an oil tank under the optical bench. These two units are...or fire hazards (due to oil filled electrical equipments). This section, however, addresses only the four main hazards. Ozone The atmospheric pressure...ventilation of the exhaust of the 002 lasers is essencial to the safe operation of this system. High Voltage The system consists of 40 separate

Design and Application of a Collocated Capacitance Sensor for Magnetic Bearing Spindle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shin, Dongwon; Liu, Seon-Jung; Kim, Jongwon

1996-01-01

This paper presents a collocated capacitance sensor for magnetic bearings. The main feature of the sensor is that it is made of a specific compact printed circuit board (PCB). The signal processing unit has been also developed. The results of the experimental performance evaluation on the sensitivity, resolution and frequency response of the sensor are presented. Finally, an application example of the sensor to the active control of a magnetic bearing is described.

Impact of the design of neonatal intensive care units on neonates, staff, and families: a systematic literature review.

PubMed

Shahheidari, Marzieh; Homer, Caroline

2012-01-01

Newborn intensive care is for critically ill newborns requiring constant and continuous care and supervision. The survival rates of critically ill infants and hospitalization in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) have improved over the past 2 decades because of technological advances in neonatology. The design of NICUs may also have implications for the health of babies, parents, and staff. It is important therefore to articulate the design features of NICU that are associated with improved outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore the main features of the NICU design and to determine the advantages and limitations of the designs in terms of outcomes for babies, parents, and staff, predominately nurses. A systematic review of English-language, peer-reviewed articles was conducted for a period of 10 years, up to January 2011. Four online library databases and a number of relevant professional Web sites were searched using key words. There were 2 main designs of NICUs: open bay and single-family room. The open-bay environment develops communication and interaction with medical staff and nurses and has the ability to monitor multiple infants simultaneously. The single-family rooms were deemed superior for patient care and parent satisfaction. Key factors associated with improved outcomes included increased privacy, increased parental involvement in patient care, assistance with infection control, noise control, improved sleep, decreased length of hospital stay, and reduced rehospitalization. The design of NICUs has implications for babies, parents, and staff. An understanding of the positive design features needs to be considered by health service planners, managers, and those who design such specialized units.

Emotional intelligence: A unique group training in a hematology-oncology unit.

PubMed

Tadmor, Tamar; Dolev, Niva; Attias, Dina; Lelong, Ayalla Reuven; Rofe, Amnon

2016-01-01

Emotional intelligence (EI) is increasingly viewed as one of the important skills required for a successful career and personal life. Consequently, efforts have been made to improve personal and group performance in EI, mostly in commercial organizations. However, these programs have not been widely applied in the health field. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of a unique special EI interventional process within the framework of an active hematology-oncology unit in a general hospital. This investigation employed a pre- and post-training design using the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory (EQ-i) measure of EI, both before and after completion of training 10 months later. The training included personal and group EI assessments and 10 EI workshops, each 2 weeks apart and each lasting approximately 2 h. Results were compared to a control group of medical staff who did not undergo any EI training program during the same time period. Average total Bar-On EQ-i level at baseline for the group was 97.9, which increased significantly after the interventional process to a score of 105.6 (P = 0.001). There were also significant increases in all five main EQ-i scales, as well as for 12 of the 15 subscales. In contrast, the control group showed no significant differences in general EI level, in any of the five main scales or 15 EI subscale areas. This pilot study demonstrated the capability of a group intervention to improve EI of medical staff working in a hematology-oncological unit. The results are encouraging and suggest that the model program could be successfully applied in a large-scale interventional program.

How to improve a critical performance for an ExoMars 2020 Scientific Instrument (RLS). Raman Laser Spectrometer Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) Optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Canora, C. P.; Moral, A. G.; Rull, F.; Maurice, S.; Hutchinson, I.; Ramos, G.; López-Reyes, G.; Belenguer, T.; Canchal, R.; Prieto, J. A. R.; Rodriguez, P.; Santamaria, P.; Berrocal, A.; Colombo, M.; Gallago, P.; Seoane, L.; Quintana, C.; Ibarmia, S.; Zafra, J.; Saiz, J.; Santiago, A.; Marin, A.; Gordillo, C.; Escribano, D.; Sanz-Palominoa, M.

2017-09-01

The Raman Laser Spectrometer (RLS) is one of the Pasteur Payload instruments, within the ESA's Aurora Exploration Programme, ExoMars mission. Raman spectroscopy is based on the analysis of spectral fingerprints due to the inelastic scattering of light when interacting with matter. RLS is composed by Units: SPU (Spectrometer Unit), iOH (Internal Optical Head), and ICEU (Instrument Control and Excitation Unit) and the harnesses (EH and OH). The iOH focuses the excitation laser on the samples and collects the Raman emission from the sample via SPU (CCD) and the video data (analog) is received, digitalizing it and transmiting it to the processor module (ICEU). The main sources of noise arise from the sample, the background, and the instrument (Laser, CCD, focuss, acquisition parameters, operation control). In this last case the sources are mainly perturbations from the optics, dark signal and readout noise. Also flicker noise arising from laser emission fluctuations can be considered as instrument noise. In order to evaluate the SNR of a Raman instrument in a practical manner it is useful to perform end-to-end measurements on given standards samples. These measurements have to be compared with radiometric simulations using Raman efficiency values from literature and taking into account the different instrumental contributions to the SNR. The RLS EQM instrument performances results and its functionalities have been demonstrated in accordance with the science expectations. The Instrument obtained SNR performances in the RLS EQM will be compared experimentally and via analysis, with the Instrument Radiometric Model tool. The characterization process for SNR optimization is still on going. The operational parameters and RLS algorithms (fluorescence removal and acquisition parameters estimation) will be improved in future models (EQM-2) until FM Model delivery.

Sap flux-upscaled canopy transpiration, stomatal conductance, and water use efficiency in an old growth forest in the Great Lakes region of the United States

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Jianwu; Bolstad, Paul V.; Ewers, Brent E.; Desai, Ankur R.; Davis, Kenneth J.; Carey, Eileen V.

2006-06-01

Combining sap flux and eddy covariance measurements provides a means to study plant stomatal conductance and the relationship between transpiration and photosynthesis. We measured sap flux using Granier-type sensors in a northern hardwood-dominated old growth forest in Michigan, upscaled to canopy transpiration, and calculated canopy conductance. We also measured carbon and water fluxes with the eddy covariance method and derived daytime gross primary production (GPP). The diurnal patterns of sap flux and canopy transpiration were mainly controlled by vapor pressure deficit (D) and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). Daily sums of sap flux and canopy transpiration had exponential relationships to D that saturated at higher D and had linear relationships to PAR. Sugar maple (Acer saccharum) and yellow birch (Betula alleghaniesis) had higher sap flux per unit of sapwood area than eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), while sugar maple and hemlock had higher canopy transpiration per unit of leaf area than yellow birch. Sugar maple dominated canopy transpiration per ground area. Canopy transpiration averaged 1.57 mm d-1, accounting for 65% of total evapotranspiration in the growing season. Canopy conductance was controlled by both D and PAR, but the day-to-day variation in canopy conductance mainly followed a negatively logarithmic relationship with D. By removing the influences of PAR, half-hourly canopy conductance was also negatively logarithmically correlated with D. Water use efficiency (WUE) had a strong exponential relationship with D on a daily basis and approached a minimum of 4.4 mg g-1. WUE provides an alternative to estimate GPP from measurements of sap flux.

Compact high-speed scanning lidar system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dickinson, Cameron; Hussein, Marwan; Tripp, Jeff; Nimelman, Manny; Koujelev, Alexander

2012-06-01

The compact High Speed Scanning Lidar (HSSL) was designed to meet the requirements for a rover GN&C sensor. The eye-safe HSSL's fast scanning speed, low volume and low power, make it the ideal choice for a variety of real-time and non-real-time applications including: 3D Mapping; Vehicle guidance and Navigation; Obstacle Detection; Orbiter Rendezvous; Spacecraft Landing / Hazard Avoidance. The HSSL comprises two main hardware units: Sensor Head and Control Unit. In a rover application, the Sensor Head mounts on the top of the rover while the Control Unit can be mounted on the rover deck or within its avionics bay. An Operator Computer is used to command the lidar and immediately display the acquired scan data. The innovative lidar design concept was a result of an extensive trade study conducted during the initial phase of an exploration rover program. The lidar utilizes an innovative scanner coupled with a compact fiber laser and high-speed timing electronics. Compared to existing compact lidar systems, distinguishing features of the HSSL include its high accuracy, high resolution, high refresh rate and large field of view. Other benefits of this design include the capability to quickly configure scan settings to fit various operational modes.

[Healthcare-associated infections in a paediatric haematology/oncology unit in Morocco].

PubMed

Cherkaoui, Siham; Lamchahab, Mouna; Samira, Hassoun; Zerouali, Khalid; Madani, Abdallah; Benchekroun, Said; Quessar, Asmaa

2014-01-01

HAI cause considerable morbidity and mortality and are associated with prolonged hospital stay and increased health care costs. To describe the incidence of HAI in paediatric cancer patients as the first step towards improving infection control policies. A prospective surveillance study was performed in the Casablanca university hospital paediatric haematology/oncology unit over an 8-month period from January to August 2011. Data including extrinsic risk factors associated with HAI were recorded. The incidence of HAI was 28 per 1000 patient-days. The median age was 9.6 years and the most frequent diagnosis was acute myeloid leukaemia (32%). Neutropenia at diagnosis was significantly correlated with the risk of HAI. 55.7% of HAls were nosocomial fever of unknown origin. Gram-negative bacteria were the main pathogens (60%), gram-positive cocci were responsible for 26% of HAI and Candida for 14% of HAI. The length of hospital stay for patients with and without infection were 16.5 and 5 days, respectively (P < 0.001). Six of the 11 deaths were related to HAI. These findings suggest the need to evaluate infection control measures in order to reduce morbidity and mortality in paediatric haematology/oncology units.

Good cop, bad cop: federal prosecution of state-legalized medical marijuana use after United States v. Lopez.

PubMed

Newbern, A E

2000-10-01

The Supreme Court's recent decisions in United States v. Lopez and United States v. Morrison articulate a vision of federalism under which Congress's regulatory authority under the Commerce Clause is severely limited in favor of returning traditional areas of state concern, particularly criminal law enforcement, to local or state control. The Court's decisions in these cases coincide with ballot initiatives legalizing the medical use of marijuana garnering a majority of the vote in California, Arizona, Alaska, Colorado, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Maine, and Washington D.C. Those who use marijuana for medical purposes under sanction of state law, however, still face the threat of federal prosecution under the Controlled Substances Act. Medical marijuana proponents have traditionally, and unsuccessfully, contested federal prosecution using individual rights arguments under theories of equal protection or substantive due process. This Comment argues that after Lopez and Morrison, the federal government's authority to regulate intrastate use of marijuana for medicinal purposes is not the foregone conclusion it once was. The author suggests that proponents of medical marijuana use should invoke the federalism arguments of Lopez and Morrison and argue for state legislative independence from the federal government on this issue.

The New MAX-DOAS Network in Mexico City for Trace Gas Detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arellano, E. J.; Krüger, A.; Rivera, C. I.; Stremme, W.; Friedrich, M. M.; Grutter, M.

2014-12-01

Atmospheric studies in large cities are of great relevance since pollution affects air quality and human health. We have designed and built instruments based on the Multi Axis Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (MAX-DOAS) technique and established a network in strategic sites within the Mexico City metropolitan area. Four instruments are now in operation with the aim to study the variability and spatial distribution of key pollutants, which will bring new insight in the current knowledge of transport patterns, emissions as well as frequency and origin of extraordinary events. The instruments measure UV/visible spectra of the sky at different elevation angles in the 280 nm to 510 nm wavelength region along one axis. Currently, 36 measurements constitute a full scan performed from west until East direction (-90 to +90°). The scanning unit, which is installed outdoors, holds a small telescope and the motor control unit. Light is transmitted via an optical fiber to the main box, which holds a compact USB spectrometer and the main control electronics. The spectrometer is accurately temperature controlled and all the spectra of each scan, together with elevation angle and other parameters, are recorded on a compact PC. Post processing of these data with the QDOAS software results in slant column densities (SCD) of the atmospheric gases. This information is then converted to vertical profiles through a process described in a companion presentation. Preliminary results will be presented for formaldehyde, fitted in the region 324-360 nm. The data obtained is useful for the comparison with satellite data for example OMI.

The United States commitment to international family planning and population programs.

PubMed

Piotrow, P T

1973-01-01

The U.S. government's policy towards birth control has changed from Eisenhower's opinion in 1959 that birth control was not the government's business to the present broad federal support allotted of family planning. The legistature was the main vehicle for mounting support of family planning with the approval of Presidents Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon. The Agency for International Development's budget for population activities in 1973 was $1,982,000,000 or 6.3% of its total foreign appropriations. Since family planning is an integral part of development, continued U.S. assistance in the field of population and family planning is necessary.

Reconfigurable work station for a video display unit and keyboard

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shields, Nicholas L. (Inventor); Roe, Fred D., Jr. (Inventor); Fagg, Mary F. (Inventor); Henderson, David E. (Inventor)

1988-01-01

A reconfigurable workstation is described having video, keyboard, and hand operated motion controller capabilities. The workstation includes main side panels between which a primary work panel is pivotally carried in a manner in which the primary work panel may be adjusted and set in a negatively declined or positively inclined position for proper forearm support when operating hand controllers. A keyboard table supports a keyboard in such a manner that the keyboard is set in a positively inclined position with respect to the negatively declined work panel. Various adjustable devices are provided for adjusting the relative declinations and inclinations of the work panels, tables, and visual display panels.

Automatic control of tracheal tube cuff pressure in ventilated patients in semirecumbent position: a randomized trial.

PubMed

Valencia, Mauricio; Ferrer, Miquel; Farre, Ramon; Navajas, Daniel; Badia, Joan Ramon; Nicolas, Josep Maria; Torres, Antoni

2007-06-01

The aspiration of subglottic secretions colonized by bacteria pooled around the tracheal tube cuff due to inadvertent deflation (<20 cm H2O) of the cuff plays a relevant role in the pathogenesis of ventilator-associated pneumonia. We assessed the efficacy of an automatic, validated device for the continuous regulation of tracheal tube cuff pressure in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia. Prospective randomized controlled trial. Respiratory intensive care unit and general medical intensive care unit. One hundred and forty-two mechanically ventilated patients (age, 64 +/- 17 yrs; Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score, 18 +/- 6) without pneumonia or aspiration at admission. Within 24 hrs of intubation, patients were randomly allocated to undergo continuous regulation of the cuff pressure with the automatic device (n = 73) or routine care of the cuff pressure (control group, n = 69). Patients remained in a semirecumbent position in bed. The primary end point variable was the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia. Main causes for intubation were decreased consciousness (43, 30%) and exacerbation of chronic respiratory diseases (38, 27%). Cuff pressure <20 cm H2O was more frequently observed in the control than the automatic group (45.3 vs. 0.7% determinations, p < .001). However, the rate of ventilator-associated pneumonia with clinical criteria (16, 22% vs. 20, 29%) and microbiological confirmation (11, 15% vs. 10, 15%), the distribution of early and late onset, the causative microorganisms, and intensive care unit (20, 27% vs. 16, 23%) and hospital mortality (30, 41% vs. 23, 33%) were similar for the automatic and control groups, respectively. Cuff pressure is better controlled with the automatic device. However, it did not result in additional benefits to the semirecumbent position in preventing ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Effects of Environmental Oxygen Content and Dissolved Oxygen on the Surface Tension and Viscosity of Liquid Nickel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

SanSoucie, M. P.; Rogers, J. R.; Kumar, V.; Rodriguez, J.; Xiao, X.; Matson, D. M.

2016-07-01

The NASA Marshall Space Flight Center's electrostatic levitation (ESL) laboratory has recently added an oxygen partial pressure controller. This system allows the oxygen partial pressure within the vacuum chamber to be measured and controlled in the range from approximately 10^{-28} {to} 10^{-9} bar, while in a vacuum atmosphere. The oxygen control system installed in the ESL laboratory's main chamber consists of an oxygen sensor, oxygen pump, and a control unit. The sensor is a potentiometric device that determines the difference in oxygen activity in two gas compartments (inside the chamber and the air outside of the chamber) separated by an electrolyte. The pump utilizes coulometric titration to either add or remove oxygen. The system is controlled by a desktop control unit, which can also be accessed via a computer. The controller performs temperature control for the sensor and pump, has a PID-based current loop and a control algorithm. Oxygen partial pressure has been shown to play a significant role in the surface tension of liquid metals. Oxide films or dissolved oxygen may lead to significant changes in surface tension. The effects on surface tension and viscosity by oxygen partial pressure in the surrounding environment and the melt dissolved oxygen content will be evaluated, and the results will be presented. The surface tension and viscosity will be measured at several different oxygen partial pressures while the sample is undercooled. Surface tension and viscosity will be measured using the oscillating droplet method.

Stressors in the relatives of patients admitted to an intensive care unit

PubMed Central

Barth, Angélica Adam; Weigel, Bruna Dorfey; Dummer, Claus Dieter; Machado, Kelly Campara; Tisott, Taís Montagner

2016-01-01

Objective To identify and stratify the main stressors for the relatives of patients admitted to the adult intensive care unit of a teaching hospital. Methods Cross-sectional descriptive study conducted with relatives of patients admitted to an intensive care unit from April to October 2014. The following materials were used: a questionnaire containing identification information and demographic data of the relatives, clinical data of the patients, and 25 stressors adapted from the Intensive Care Unit Environmental Stressor Scale. The degree of stress caused by each factor was determined on a scale of values from 1 to 4. The stressors were ranked based on the average score obtained. Results The main cause of admission to the intensive care unit was clinical in 36 (52.2%) cases. The main stressors were the patient being in a state of coma (3.15 ± 1.23), the patient being unable to speak (3.15 ± 1.20), and the reason for admission (3.00 ± 1.27). After removing the 27 (39.1%) coma patients from the analysis, the main stressors for the relatives were the reason for admission (2.75 ± 1.354), seeing the patient in the intensive care unit (2.51 ± 1.227), and the patient being unable to speak (2.50 ± 1.269). Conclusion Difficulties in communication and in the relationship with the patient admitted to the intensive care unit were identified as the main stressors by their relatives, with the state of coma being predominant. By contrast, the environment, work routines, and relationship between the relatives and intensive care unit team had the least impact as stressors. PMID:27737424

Smart manufacturing of complex shaped pipe components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salchak, Y. A.; Kotelnikov, A. A.; Sednev, D. A.; Borikov, V. N.

2018-03-01

Manufacturing industry is constantly improving. Nowadays the most relevant trend is widespread automation and optimization of the production process. This paper represents a novel approach for smart manufacturing of steel pipe valves. The system includes two main parts: mechanical treatment and quality assurance units. Mechanical treatment is performed by application of the milling machine with implementation of computerized numerical control, whilst the quality assurance unit contains three testing modules for different tasks, such as X-ray testing, optical scanning and ultrasound testing modules. The advances of each of them provide reliable results that contain information about any failures of the technological process, any deviations of geometrical parameters of the valves. The system also allows detecting defects on the surface or in the inner structure of the component.

[Microorganisms responsible of nosocomial infections in the Mexican Social Security Institute].

PubMed

Arias-Flores, Rafael; Rosado-Quiab, Ulises; Vargas-Valerio, Alfredo; Grajales-Muñiz, Concepción

2016-01-01

The prevention and control of the nosocomial infections involve the knowledge of the most frequent type of microorganism isolated. In Mexico there are not national statistics to identify the main microorganisms that cause a nosocomial infection. It was conducted an analysis of all the culture results of the nosocomial infections reported by the Sistema de Vigilancia Epidemiológica Hospitalaria (Epidemiological Surveillance System) of the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social during the year 2013. The most frequent and relevant microorganisms were reported. 48 377 results from cultures of nosocomial infections were studied. Of these 13 207 (27.3 %) were from 25 high specialty medical units and 35 170 (72.6 %) from 197 second level medical units. The most frequently isolated microorganism was Escherichia coli with 8192 results (16.9 %), followed by the group of Coagulase-negative Staphylococci with 6771 cultures (14 %) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa with 5275 results (19.9 %). Slight differences between levels of care and specialized hospitals were observed. This study identifies the Escherichia coli, the group of Coagulase-negative Staphylococci and the Pseudomonas aeruginosa as the main microorganisms to prevent.

Can gynaecology teaching associates provide high quality effective training for medical students in the United Kingdom? Comparative study

PubMed Central

Pickard, Sally; Baraitser, Paula; Rymer, Janice; Piper, Johanna

2003-01-01

Objectives To train laywomen to become professional patients in order to teach medical students speculum and bimanual examination, to assess their effectiveness in this role, and to incorporate this method of teaching into the undergraduate curriculum of a medical school in the United Kingdom. Design Comparative study. Setting Guy's, King's, and St Thomas's School of Medicine, London. Participants 44 medical students trained by gynaecology teaching associates; 48 control students. Main outcome measure Skills in pelvic examination. Results Six laywomen were recruited and all successfully graduated to become gynaecology teaching associates. At assessment 1, in the third week of the reproductive and sexual health block, the mean score achieved by students trained by gynaecology teaching associates was 155, compared with 104 for control group students (difference in mean scores 51 (95% confidence interval 41 to 61), P < 0.001). Similar results were obtained at assessment 2, at the end of the attachment—the mean score for trained students was 148, compared with a mean score of 114 for control group students (difference in mean scores 34 (21 to 46), P < 0.001). Conclusions Laywomen can be trained to teach pelvic examination to medical students in the United Kingdom. Students who receive this training have better skills than students who receive the traditional training alone. PMID:14670887

Prevention and control of blood stream infection using the balanced scorecard approach.

PubMed

Rohsiswatmo, Rinawati; Rafika, Sarah; Marsubrin, Putri M T

2014-07-01

to obtain formulation of an effective and efficient strategy to overcome blood stream infection (BSI). operational research design with qualitative and quantitative approach. The study was divided into two stages. Stage I was an operational research with problem solving approach using qualitative and quantitative method. Stage II was performed using quantitative method, a form of an interventional study on strategy implementation, which was previously established in stage I. The effective and efficient strategy for the prevention and control of infection in neonatal unit Cipto Mangunkusumo (CM) Hospital was established using Balanced Scorecard (BSC) approach, which involved several related processes. the BSC strategy was proven to be effective and efficient in substantially reducing BSI from 52.31°/oo to 1.36°/oo in neonates with birth weight (BW) 1000-1499 g (p=0.025), and from 29.96°/oo to 1.66°/oo in BW 1500-1999 g (p=0.05). Gram-negative bacteria still predominated as the main cause of BSI in CMH Neonatal Unit. So far, the sources of the microorganisms were thought to be from the environment of treatment unit (tap water filter and humidifying water in the incubator). Significant reduction was also found in neonatal mortality rate weighing 1000-1499 g at birth, length of stay, hospitalization costs, and improved customer satisfaction. effective and efficient infection prevention and control using BSC approach could significantly reduce the rate of BSI. This approach may be applied for adult patients in intensive care unit with a wide range of adjustment.

Dermatoglyphic patterns in dementia of the Alzheimer type: a case-control study.

PubMed

Berr, C; Okra-Podrabinek, N; Feteanu, D; Taurand, S; Hervy, M P; Forette, F; Piette, F; Sebag-Lanoe, R; Alperovitch, A

1992-10-01

The aim was to compare digital and palmar dermatoglyphics in subjects with dementia of Alzheimer type and in mentally healthy elderly controls. This design was a case-control study. The study was carried out in geriatric units and retirement communities in the Paris area. Cases were women with clinically diagnosed Alzheimer type dementia according to DSM III-R criteria (n = 82), mainly with late onset of the disease. Controls were women aged 85 years or older without cognitive deterioration (n = 76). Finger and palm prints obtained from both hands by the classical ink method were examined. Fingerprints were classified into four types of figures. On palms, palmar flexion creases, palmar axial triradii, true patterns of the hypothenar area, and main line terminations were described. Examinations were performed by two examiners blind to the subjects's diagnostic category. For the different patterns studied, no major differences between dementia patients and elderly controls were found. Nor was there evidence of high frequencies of features commonly observed in Down's syndrome (trisomy 21), which have previously, though sporadically, been reported. On one of the largest samples of Alzheimer dementia patients studied, and with evaluation blind to diagnosis, no evidence has been found that particular dermatoglyphic patterns occur like those observed in Down's syndrome, a disease which is related to dementia of the Alzheimer type.

Internal quality control of blood products: An experience from a tertiary care hospital blood bank from Southern Pakistan.

PubMed

Sultan, Sadia; Zaheer, Hasan Abbas; Waheed, Usman; Baig, Mohammad Amjad; Rehan, Asma; Irfan, Syed Mohammed

2018-01-01

Internal quality control (IQC) is the backbone of quality assurance program. In blood banking, the quality control of blood products ensures the timely availability of a blood component of high quality with maximum efficacy and minimal risk to potential recipients. The main objective of this study is to analyze the IQC of blood products as an indicator of our blood bank performance. An observational cross-sectional study was conducted at the blood bank of Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, from January 2014 to December 2015. A total of 100 units of each blood components were arbitrarily chosen during the study. Packed red cell units were evaluated for hematocrit (HCT); random platelet concentrates were evaluated for pH, yield, and culture; fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and cryoprecipitate (CP) were evaluated for unit volume, factor VIII, and fibrinogen concentrations. A total of 400 units were tested for IQC. The mean HCT of packed red cells was 69.5 ± 7.24, and in 98% units, it met the standard (<80% of HCT). The mean platelet yield was 8.8 ± 3.40 × 10 9 /L and pH was ≥6.2 in 98% bags; cultures were negative in 97% of units tested. Mean factor VIII and fibrinogen levels were found to be 84.24 ± 15.01 and 247.17 ± 49.69 for FFP, respectively. For CP, mean factor VIII and fibrinogen level were found to be 178.75 ± 86.30 and 420.7 ± 75.32, respectively. The IQC of blood products at our blood bank is in overall compliance and met recommended international standards. Implementation of standard operating procedures, accomplishment of standard guidelines, proper documentation with regular audit, and staff competencies can improve the quality performance of the transfusion services.

Electrostatic Accelerometer for the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment Follow-On Mission (GRACE FO)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perrot, Eddy; Boulanger, Damien; Christophe, Bruno; Foulon, Bernard; Liorzou, Françoise; Lebat, Vincent

2014-05-01

The GRACE FO mission, led by the JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory), is an Earth-orbiting gravity mission, continuation of the GRACE mission, that will produce an accurate model of the Earth's gravity field variation providing global climatic data during five year at least. The mission involves two satellites in a loosely controlled tandem formation, with a micro-wave link, and optionally a laser link, measuring the inter-satellites distance variation. Non-uniformities in the distribution of the Earth's mass cause the distance between the two satellites to vary. This variation is measured to recover gravity, after subtracting the non-gravitational contributors, as the residual drag. ONERA (the French Aerospace Lab) is developing, manufacturing and testing electrostatic accelerometers measuring this residual drag applied on the satellites. The accelerometer is composed of two main parts: the Sensor Unit (including the Sensor Unit Mechanics - SUM - and the Front-End Electronic Unit - FEEU) and the Interface Control Unit. In the Accelerometer Core, located in the Sensor Unit Mechanics, the proof mass is levitated and maintained in a center of an electrode cage by electrostatic forces. Thus, any drag acceleration applied on the satellite involves a variation on the servo-controlled electrostatic suspension of the mass. The voltage on the electrodes providing this electrostatic force is the measurement output of the accelerometer. The Preliminary Design Review was achieved successfully on November 2013. The FEEU Engineering Model is under test. Preliminary results on electronic unit will be compared with the expected performance. The integration of the SUM Engineering Model and the first ground levitation of the proof-mass will be presented. The impact of the accelerometer defaults (geometry, electronic and parasitic forces) leads to bias, misalignment and scale factor error, non-linearity and noise. Some of these accelerometer defaults are characterized by tests with micro-gravity pendulum bench and with drops in ZARM catapult. The post-processing needed to achieve the performance, in particular with regards to the temperature stability, will be explained.

[Colonoscopy quality control as a requirement of colorectal cancer screening].

PubMed

Quintero, Enrique; Alarcón-Fernández, Onofre; Jover, Rodrigo

2013-11-01

The strategies used in population-based colorectal screening strategies culminate in colonoscopy and consequently the success of these programs largely depends on the quality of this diagnostic test. The main factors to consider when evaluating quality are scientific-technical quality, safety, patient satisfaction, and accessibility. Quality indicators allow variability among hospitals, endoscopy units and endoscopists to be determined and can identify those not achieving recommended standards. In Spain, the working group for colonoscopy quality of the Spanish Society of Gastroenterology and the Spanish Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy have recently drawn up a Clinical Practice Guideline that contains the available evidence on the quality of screening colonoscopy, as well as the basic requirements that must be met by endoscopy units and endoscopists carrying out this procedure. The implementation of training programs and screening colonoscopy quality controls are strongly recommended to guarantee the success of population-based colorectal cancer screening. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L. and AEEH y AEG. All rights reserved.

78 FR 18325 - Intent To Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Formal Training Unit (FTU) and...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-26

... Statement (EIS) for the Formal Training Unit (FTU) and Main Operating Base 1 (MOB 1) for the Beddown of KC... Statement (EIS) for the Formal Training Unit (FTU) and Main Operating Base 1 (MOB 1) for the Beddown of KC...-46A tanker aircraft, associated infrastructure and manpower of the FTU and MOB 1 at existing active...

Phrenic Motor Unit Recruitment during Ventilatory and Non-Ventilatory Behaviors

PubMed Central

Mantilla, Carlos B.; Sieck, Gary C.

2011-01-01

Phrenic motoneurons are located in the cervical spinal cord and innervate the diaphragm muscle, the main inspiratory muscle in mammals. Similar to other skeletal muscles, phrenic motoneurons and diaphragm muscle fibers form motor units which are the final element of neuromotor control. In addition to their role in sustaining ventilation, phrenic motor units are active in other non-ventilatory behaviors important for airway clearance such as coughing or sneezing. Diaphragm muscle fibers comprise all fiber types and are commonly classified based on expression of contractile proteins including myosin heavy chain isoforms. Although there are differences in contractile and fatigue properties across motor units, there is a matching of properties for the motor neuron and muscle fibers within a motor unit. Motor units are generally recruited in order such that fatigue-resistant motor units are recruited earlier and more often than more fatigable motor units. Thus, in sustaining ventilation, fatigue-resistant motor units are likely required. Based on a series of studies in cats, hamsters and rats, an orderly model of motor unit recruitment was proposed that takes into consideration the maximum forces generated by single type-identified diaphragm muscle fibers as well as the proportion of the different motor unit types. Using this model, eupnea can be accomplished by activation of only slow-twitch diaphragm motor units and only a subset of fast-twitch, fatigue-resistant units. Activation of fast-twitch fatigable motor units only becomes necessary when accomplishing tasks that require greater force generation by the diaphragm muscle, e.g., sneezing and coughing. PMID:21763470

Phrenic motor unit recruitment during ventilatory and non-ventilatory behaviors.

PubMed

Mantilla, Carlos B; Sieck, Gary C

2011-10-15

Phrenic motoneurons are located in the cervical spinal cord and innervate the diaphragm muscle, the main inspiratory muscle in mammals. Similar to other skeletal muscles, phrenic motoneurons and diaphragm muscle fibers form motor units which are the final element of neuromotor control. In addition to their role in sustaining ventilation, phrenic motor units are active in other non-ventilatory behaviors important for airway clearance such as coughing or sneezing. Diaphragm muscle fibers comprise all fiber types and are commonly classified based on expression of contractile proteins including myosin heavy chain isoforms. Although there are differences in contractile and fatigue properties across motor units, there is a matching of properties for the motor neuron and muscle fibers within a motor unit. Motor units are generally recruited in order such that fatigue-resistant motor units are recruited earlier and more often than more fatigable motor units. Thus, in sustaining ventilation, fatigue-resistant motor units are likely required. Based on a series of studies in cats, hamsters and rats, an orderly model of motor unit recruitment was proposed that takes into consideration the maximum forces generated by single type-identified diaphragm muscle fibers as well as the proportion of the different motor unit types. Using this model, eupnea can be accomplished by activation of only slow-twitch diaphragm motor units and only a subset of fast-twitch, fatigue-resistant units. Activation of fast-twitch fatigable motor units only becomes necessary when accomplishing tasks that require greater force generation by the diaphragm muscle, e.g., sneezing and coughing. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Genotyping of Brucella melitensis strains from dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) from the United Arab Emirates with multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis.

PubMed

Gyuranecz, Miklós; Wernery, Ulli; Kreizinger, Zsuzsa; Juhász, Judit; Felde, Orsolya; Nagy, Péter

2016-04-15

Camel brucellosis is a widespread zoonotic disease in camel-rearing countries caused by Brucella melitensis and Brucella abortus. The aim of this study was the first genetic analysis of B. melitensis strains isolated from dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) using multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA). MLVA 16 and its MLVA 8 and MLVA11 subsets were used to determine the genotypes of 15 B. melitensis isolates from dromedary camels (11 strains) and other host species (4 strains) from the United Arab Emirates and the results were then compared to B. melitensis MLVA genotypes from other parts of the world. Five, including two novel genotypes were identified with MLVA 8. MLVA 16 further discriminated these five genotypes to ten variants. The eleven camel isolates clustered into four main genetic groups within the East-Mediterranean and African clades and this clustering correlated with the geographic origin of the hosts (United Arab Emirates, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Sudan) and the date of their isolation. The camel strains were also genetically related to strains isolated from wild and domestic ruminants from their close habitat or from other parts of the world. Although limited number of strains were analysed, based on our data imported animals from foreign countries, local small ruminants and wildlife species are hypothesized to be the main sources of camel brucellosis in the United Arab Emirates. MLVA was successfully applied to determine the epidemiological links between the different camel B. melitensis infections in the United Arab Emirates and it can be a beneficial tool in future disease control programs. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

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

Osmanlioglu, Ahmet Erdal

Pre-treatment of radioactive waste is the first step in waste management program that occurs after waste generation from various applications in Turkey. Pre-treatment and characterization practices are carried out in Radioactive Waste Management Unit (RWMU) at Cekmece Nuclear Research and Training Center (CNRTC) in Istanbul. This facility has been assigned to take all low-level radioactive wastes generated by nuclear applications in Turkey. The wastes are generated from research and nuclear applications mainly in medicine, biology, agriculture, quality control in metal processing and construction industries. These wastes are classified as low- level radioactive wastes. Pre-treatment practices cover several steps. In thismore » paper, main steps of pre-treatment and characterization are presented. Basically these are; collection, segregation, chemical adjustment, size reduction and decontamination operations. (author)« less

Internode data communications in a parallel computer

DOEpatents

Archer, Charles J.; Blocksome, Michael A.; Miller, Douglas R.; Parker, Jeffrey J.; Ratterman, Joseph D.; Smith, Brian E.

2013-09-03

Internode data communications in a parallel computer that includes compute nodes that each include main memory and a messaging unit, the messaging unit including computer memory and coupling compute nodes for data communications, in which, for each compute node at compute node boot time: a messaging unit allocates, in the messaging unit's computer memory, a predefined number of message buffers, each message buffer associated with a process to be initialized on the compute node; receives, prior to initialization of a particular process on the compute node, a data communications message intended for the particular process; and stores the data communications message in the message buffer associated with the particular process. Upon initialization of the particular process, the process establishes a messaging buffer in main memory of the compute node and copies the data communications message from the message buffer of the messaging unit into the message buffer of main memory.

Internode data communications in a parallel computer

DOEpatents

Archer, Charles J; Blocksome, Michael A; Miller, Douglas R; Parker, Jeffrey J; Ratterman, Joseph D; Smith, Brian E

2014-02-11

Internode data communications in a parallel computer that includes compute nodes that each include main memory and a messaging unit, the messaging unit including computer memory and coupling compute nodes for data communications, in which, for each compute node at compute node boot time: a messaging unit allocates, in the messaging unit's computer memory, a predefined number of message buffers, each message buffer associated with a process to be initialized on the compute node; receives, prior to initialization of a particular process on the compute node, a data communications message intended for the particular process; and stores the data communications message in the message buffer associated with the particular process. Upon initialization of the particular process, the process establishes a messaging buffer in main memory of the compute node and copies the data communications message from the message buffer of the messaging unit into the message buffer of main memory.

USAF Support to Low Intensity Conflict: Three Case Studies From the 1980s

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-06-01

included armed reconnaissance provided by AC- 130H gunships, and an airdrop of USAF Combat Control Teams and Army Rangers . The main body for the...performance of elite units such as Delta Force, SEALS, Rangers , etc. did not justify the money spent or their claims of eliteness. AU Library Document M-43828...48Adkin, 132. 23 Figure 1 Task Organization for Joint Task Force 120. CJTF 120 Carribean Peacekeeping Force CTF 121 Airborne CTF 123 Rangers

KSC-02pd1129

NASA Image and Video Library

2002-07-10

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, FLA. -- With the engines removed from Endeavour, the inside of Endeavour is exposed. At left center, Scott Minnick, with United Space Alliance, operates a fiber-optic camera inside the flow line. Other USA team members, right, watching the progress on a screen in front, are Gerry Kathka (with controls), Mike Fore and Peggy Ritchie. The inspection is the result of small cracks being discovered on the LH2 Main Propulsion System (MPS) flow liners in other orbiters. Endeavour is next scheduled to fly on mission STS-113.

[Main causes of non-compliance with pulmonary tuberculosis treatment].

PubMed

Manjarréz Morales, E M; Serrano Montes, V; Cano Pérez, G; Verduzco Guerrero, E; Escandón Romero, C; Escobedo de la Peña, J

1993-01-01

One hundred rural patient with pulmonary tuberculosis and 74 urban patients were included in the study in order to study the main causes of non-compliance. Crude cumulative incidencia was 42% (73/164). Those factors with the strongest association with non-compliance, independently of its association with other factors, were to live in rural areas (OR 0 10.4; p < 0.001), had not gone to school (analfabet) (OR = 4.5; p < 0.001), and last more than an hour to reach the medical care unit (protector) (OR = 0.40; p = 0.07). No association was found with socioeconomic factors, neither with the patient's knowledge of the disease. Identifying those factors related to non-compliance is important, since non-compliance occurs in the very firsts days of treatment, when the shortage of treatment or giving fewer pills do not work at all. To get a better medial control may be a good way to reach the expected control of the disease.

The geology and chronology of the Acheulean deposits in the Mieso area (East-Central Ethiopia).

PubMed

Benito-Calvo, Alfonso; Barfod, Dan N; McHenry, Lindsay J; de la Torre, Ignacio

2014-11-01

This paper presents the Quaternary sequence of the Mieso area of Central-East Ethiopia, located in the piedmont between the SE Ethiopian Escarpment and the Main Ethiopian Rift-Afar Rift transition sector.In this region, a piedmont alluvial plain is terraced at þ25 m above the two main fluvial courses, the Mieso and Yabdo Rivers. The piedmont sedimentary sequence is divided into three stratigraphic units separated by unconformities. Mieso Units I and II contain late Acheulean assemblages and a weakly consolidated alluvial sequence, consisting mainly of fine sediments with buried soils and, to a lesser degree, conglomerates. Palaeo-wetland areas were common in the alluvial plain, represented by patches of tufas, stromatolites and clays. At present, the piedmont alluvial surface is preserved mainly on a dark brown soil formed at the top of Unit II. Unit III corresponds to a fluvial deposit overlying Unit II, and is defined by sands, silty clays and gravels, including several Later Stone Age (LSA) occurrences. Three fine-grained tephra levels are interbedded in Unit I (tuffs TBI and TA) and II (tuff CB), and are usually spatially-constrained and reworked. Argon/argon (40Ar/39Ar) dating from tuff TA, an ash deposit preserved in a palustrine environment, yielded an age of 0.212 ± 0.016 Ma (millions of years ago). This date places thetop of Unit I in the late Middle Pleistocene, with Acheulean sites below and above tuff TA. Regional correlations tentatively place the base of Unit I around the Early-Middle Pleistocene boundary, Unit II inthe late Middle Pleistocene and within the Late Pleistocene, and the LSA occurrences of Unit III in the LatePleistoceneeHolocene.

3. ELEVATIONS, ADDITION TO POWER HOUSE. United Engineering Company Ltd., ...

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

3. ELEVATIONS, ADDITION TO POWER HOUSE. United Engineering Company Ltd., Alameda Shipyard. John Hudspeth, architect, foot of Main Street, Alameda, California. Sheet 4. Plan no. 10,548. Scale 1/4 inch to the foot, elevations, and one inch to the foot, sections and details. April 30, 1945, last revised 6/19/45. pencil on vellum - United Engineering Company Shipyard, Boiler House, 2900 Main Street, Alameda, Alameda County, CA

Self-Control Protects Against Overweight Status in the Transition from Childhood to Adolescence

PubMed Central

Tsukayama, Eli; Toomey, Sara L.; Faith, Myles; Duckworth, Angela Lee

2010-01-01

Objective To determine whether more self-controlled children are protected from weight gain as they enter adolescence. Design Prospective, longitudinal study. Setting Ten sites across the United States from 1991-2007. Participants The 844 children in the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development birth cohort who had height and weight information at age 15 (in 2006). Main Exposure A composite measure of self-control was created from mother, father, and teacher-report ratings using items from the Social Skills Rating System. Main Outcome Measure Overweight status at age 15 years. Results Approximately one-third of the sample (n = 262) was overweight at age 15. Compared to their non-overweight peers, overweight adolescents at age 15 were about a half-standard deviation lower in self-control at age 9 (unstandardized difference = 0.15, pooled SD = 0.29, P < .001). Children rated higher by their parents and teachers in self-control at age 9 were less likely to be overweight at age 15 (RR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.56-0.98), controlling for overweight status at age 10, pubertal development, age, IQ, gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and maternal overweight status. Conclusion More self-controlled boys and girls are less likely to become overweight as they enter adolescence. The ability to control impulses and delay gratification enables children to maintain a healthy weight even in today's obesogenic environment. PMID:20603463

Effect of Caloric Restriction or Aerobic Exercise Training on Peak Oxygen Consumption and Quality of Life in Obese Older Patients with Heart Failure and Preserved Ejection Fraction A Randomized, Controlled Trial

PubMed Central

Kitzman, Dalane W.; Brubaker, Peter; Morgan, Timothy; Haykowsky, Mark; Hundley, Gregory; Kraus, William E.; Eggebeen, Joel; Nicklas, Barbara J.

2016-01-01

Importance More than 80% of patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF), the most common form of HF among older persons, are overweight/obese. Exercise intolerance is the primary symptom of chronic HFPEF and a major determinant of reduced quality-of-life (QOL). Objective To determine whether caloric restriction (Diet), or aerobic exercise training (Exercise), improves exercise capacity and QOL in obese older HFPEF patients. Design Randomized, attention-controlled, 2x2 factorial trial conducted from February 2009 November 2014. Setting Urban academic medical center. Participants 100 older (67±5 years) obese (BMI=39.3±5.6kg/m2) women (n=81) and men (n=19) with chronic, stable HFPEF enrolled from 577 patients initially screened (366 excluded by inclusion / exclusion criteria, 31 for other reasons, 80 declined participation). Twenty-six participants were randomized to Exercise alone, 24 to Diet alone, 25 to Diet+Exercise, and 25 to Control; 92 completed the trial. Interventions 20 weeks of Diet and/or Exercise; Attention Control consisted of telephone calls every 2 weeks. Main Outcomes and Measures Exercise capacity measured as peak oxygen consumption (VO2, ml/kg/min; primary outcome) and QOL measured by the Minnesota Living with HF Questionnaire (MLHF) total score (co-primary outcome; score range: 0–105, higher scores indicate worse HF-related QOL). Results By main effects analysis, peak VO2 was increased significantly by both interventions: Exercise main effect 1.2 ml/kg/min (95%CI: 0.7,1.7; p<0.001); Diet main effect 1.3 ml/kg/min (95%CI: 0.8,1.8; p<0.001). The combination of Exercise+Diet was additive (complementary) for peak VO2 (joint effect 2.5 ml/kg/min). The change in MLHF total score was non-significant with Exercise (main effect −1 unit; 95%CI: −8,5; p=0.70) and with Diet (main effect −6 units; 95%CI: −12,1; p=0.078). The change in peak VO2 was positively correlated with the change in percent lean body mass (r=0.32; p=0.003) and the change in thigh muscle/intermuscular fat ratio (r=0.27; p=0.02). There were no study-related serious adverse events. Exercise attendance was 84±14%; Diet compliance was 99±1%. Body weight decreased by 7±1 kg (7%) in Diet, 4±1 kg (3%) in Exercise, 11±1 kg (10%) in Exercise+Diet, and 1±1 kg (1%) in Control. Conclusion and Relevance Among obese older patients with clinically stable heart failure and preserved ejection fraction, caloric restriction diet or aerobic exercise training increased peak oxygen consumption, and the effects may be additive. Neither intervention had a significant effect on quality of life as measured by the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire, Clinical Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT00959660; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00959660 PMID:26746456

75 FR 10669 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-200B, 747-300, and 747SR Series...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-03-09

... results from a report of water contamination in the electrical and electronic units in the main equipment... from a report of water contamination in the electrical and electronic units in the main equipment...

Thermoacoustic refrigerators and engines comprising cascading stirling thermodynamic units

DOEpatents

Backhaus, Scott; Swift, Greg

2013-06-25

The present invention includes a thermoacoustic assembly and method for improved efficiency. The assembly has a first stage Stirling thermal unit comprising a main ambient heat exchanger, a regenerator and at least one additional heat exchanger. The first stage Stirling thermal unit is serially coupled to a first end of a quarter wavelength long coupling tube. A second stage Stirling thermal unit comprising a main ambient heat exchanger, a regenerator, and at least one additional heat exchanger, is serially coupled to a second end of the quarter wavelength long coupling tube.

Prophylactic antibiotics after acute stroke for reducing pneumonia in patients with dysphagia (STROKE-INF): a prospective, cluster-randomised, open-label, masked endpoint, controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Kalra, Lalit; Irshad, Saddif; Hodsoll, John; Simpson, Matthew; Gulliford, Martin; Smithard, David; Patel, Anita; Rebollo-Mesa, Irene

2015-11-07

Post-stroke pneumonia is associated with increased mortality and poor functional outcomes. This study assessed the effectiveness of antibiotic prophylaxis for reducing pneumonia in patients with dysphagia after acute stroke. We did a prospective, multicentre, cluster-randomised, open-label controlled trial with masked endpoint assessment of patients older than 18 years with dysphagia after new stroke recruited from 48 stroke units in the UK, accredited and included in the UK National Stroke Audit. We excluded patients with contraindications to antibiotics, pre-existing dysphagia, or known infections, or who were not expected to survive beyond 14 days. We randomly assigned the units (1:1) by computer to give either prophylactic antibiotics for 7 days plus standard stroke unit care or standard stroke unit care only to patients clustered in the units within 48 h of stroke onset. We did the randomisation with minimisation to stratify for number of admissions and access to specialist care. Patient and staff who did the assessments and analyses were masked to stroke unit allocation. The primary outcome was post-stroke pneumonia in the first 14 days, assessed with both a criteria-based, hierarchical algorithm and by physician diagnosis in the intention-to-treat population. Safety was also analysed by intention to treat. This trial is closed to new participants and is registered with isrctn.com, number ISRCTN37118456. Between April 21, 2008, and May 17, 2014, we randomly assigned 48 stroke units (and 1224 patients clustered within the units) to the two treatment groups: 24 to antibiotics and 24 to standard care alone (control). 11 units and seven patients withdrew after randomisation before 14 days, leaving 1217 patients in 37 units for the intention-to-treat analysis (615 patients in the antibiotics group, 602 in control). Prophylactic antibiotics did not affect the incidence of algorithm-defined post-stroke pneumonia (71 [13%] of 564 patients in antibiotics group vs 52 [10%] of 524 in control group; marginal adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1·21 [95% CI 0·71-2·08], p=0·489, intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] 0·06 [95% CI 0·02-0·17]. Algorithm-defined post-stroke pneumonia could not be established in 129 (10%) patients because of missing data. Additionally, we noted no differences in physician-diagnosed post-stroke pneumonia between groups (101 [16%] of 615 patients vs 91 [15%] of 602, adjusted OR 1·01 [95% CI 0·61-1·68], p=0·957, ICC 0·08 [95% CI 0·03-0·21]). The most common adverse events were infections unrelated to post-stroke pneumonia (mainly urinary tract infections), which were less frequent in the antibiotics group (22 [4%] of 615 vs 45 [7%] of 602; OR 0·55 [0·32-0·92], p=0·02). Diarrhoea positive for Clostridium difficile occurred in two patients (<1%) in the antibiotics group and four (<1%) in the control group, and meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus colonisation occurred in 11 patients (2%) in the antibiotics group and 14 (2%) in the control group. Antibiotic prophylaxis cannot be recommended for prevention of post-stroke pneumonia in patients with dysphagia after stroke managed in stroke units. UK National Institute for Health Research. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Exploring Research Topics and Trends in Nursing-related Communication in Intensive Care Units Using Social Network Analysis.

PubMed

Son, Youn-Jung; Lee, Soo-Kyoung; Nam, SeJin; Shim, Jae Lan

2018-05-04

This study used social network analysis to identify the main research topics and trends in nursing-related communication in intensive care units. Keywords from January 1967 to June 2016 were extracted from PubMed using Medical Subject Headings terms. Social network analysis was performed using Gephi software. Research publications and newly emerging topics in nursing-related communication in intensive care units were classified into five chronological phases. After the weighting was adjusted, the top five keyword searches were "conflict," "length of stay," "nursing continuing education," "family," and "nurses." During the most recent phase, research topics included "critical care nursing," "patient handoff," and "quality improvement." The keywords of the top three groups among the 10 groups identified were related to "neonatal nursing and practice guideline," "infant or pediatric and terminal care," and "family, aged, and nurse-patient relations," respectively. This study can promote a systematic understanding of communication in intensive care units by identifying topic networks. Future studies are needed to conduct large prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials to verify the effects of patient-centered communication in intensive care units on patient outcomes, such as length of hospital stay and mortality.

KSC-07pd2025

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, a crane lowers the main bus switching unit into Discovery's payload bay. The unit is part of the payload on mission STS-120.A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

The role of the lacrimal functional unit in the pathophysiology of dry eye.

PubMed

Stern, Michael E; Gao, Jianping; Siemasko, Karyn F; Beuerman, Roger W; Pflugfelder, Stephen C

2004-03-01

The majority of dry eye symptoms are due to a chronic inflammation of the lacrimal functional unit resulting in a loss of tear film integrity and normal function. This leads to a reduction in the ability of the ocular surface to respond to environmental challenges. The underlying cause of tear film dysfunction is the alteration of tear aqueous, mucin, and lipid components. This may result from a systemic autoimmune disease or a local autoimmune event. A lack of systemic androgen support to the lacrimal gland has been shown to be a facilitative factor in the initiation of this type of pathophysiology. Tear secretion is controlled by the lacrimal functional unit consisting of the ocular surface (cornea, conjunctiva, accessory lacrimal glands, and meibomian glands), the main lacrimal gland and the interconnecting innervation. If any portion of this functional unit is compromised, lacrimal gland support to the ocular surface is impeded. Factors such as neurogenic inflammation and T cell involvement in the disease pathogenesis as well as newly developed animal models of ocular surface inflammation are discussed.

Impact of a risk management plan on Legionella contamination of dental unit water.

PubMed

Leoni, Erica; Dallolio, Laura; Stagni, Francesca; Sanna, Tiziana; D'Alessandro, Giovanni; Piana, Gabriela

2015-02-23

The study aimed to assess the prevalence of Legionella spp. in dental unit waterlines of a dental clinic and to verify whether the microbiological parameters used as indicators of water quality were correlated with Legionella contamination. A risk management plan was subsequently implemented in the dental health care setting, in order to verify whether the adopted disinfection protocols were effective in preventing Legionella colonization. The water delivered from syringes and turbines of 63 dental units operating in a dental clinic, was monitored for counts of the heterotrophic bacteria P. aeruginosa and Legionella spp. (22 °C and 37 °C). At baseline, output water from dental units continuously treated with disinfection products was more compliant with the recommended standards than untreated and periodically treated water. However, continuous disinfection was still not able to prevent contamination by Legionella and P. aeruginosa. Legionella was isolated from 36.4%, 24.3% and 53.3% of samples from untreated, periodically and continuously treated waterlines, respectively. The standard microbiological parameters used as indicators of water quality proved to be unreliable as predictors of the presence of Legionella, whose source was identified as the tap water used to supply the dental units. The adoption of control measures, including the use of deionized water in supplying the dental unit waterlines and the application of a combined protocol of continuous and periodic disinfection, with different active products for the different devices, resulted in good control of Legionella contamination. The efficacy of the measures adopted was mainly linked to the strict adherence to the planned protocols, which placed particular stress on staff training and ongoing environmental monitoring.

Yawed-Rolling Tire Mechanical Properties Testing of the Navy T-45 Aircraft Tires

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Daugherty, Robert H.

2000-01-01

The T-45 Goshawk is a United States Navy Jet aircraft used primarily as a trainer. The aircraft design makes use of "off the shelf" hardware as much as possible and was found to have unusual directional control issues during around operations. The aircraft was involved in numerous pilot-induced-oscillation incidents as well as observed to have unusual directional control reactions to failed main gear tires, a condition that is normally handled relatively easily by conventional aircraft steering control techniques. The behavior of the aircraft's tires had previously been modeled in simulators as a result of approximations provided in 40-year-old reference publications. Since knowledge of the true tire cornering and braking behavior is essential to modeling, understanding, and fixing directional control problems, the United States Navy requested assistance from the NASA Langley Research Center's (LARC) Aircraft Landing Dynamics Facility (ALDF) to define the yawed-rolling mechanical properties of the T-45 aircraft tires. The purpose of this report is to document the results of testing the subject tires at the NASA LaRC ALDF in September 1998. Brief descriptions of the Instrumented Tire Test Vehicle (ITTV) are included to familiarize the reader with the ITTV capabilities, data acquisition system, test and measurement techniques, data accuracy, and analysis and presentation of the testing results.

Regional stratigraphy of the south polar layered deposits (Promethei Lingula, Mars): "Discontinuity-bounded" units in images and radargrams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guallini, Luca; Rossi, Angelo Pio; Forget, François; Marinangeli, Lucia; Lauro, Sebastian Emanuel; Pettinelli, Elena; Seu, Roberto; Thomas, Nicolas

2018-07-01

The Mars South Polar Layered Deposits (SPLD) are the result of depositional and erosional events, which are marked by different stratigraphic sequences and erosional surfaces. To unambiguously define the stratigraphic units at regional scale, we mapped the SPLD on the basis of observed discontinuities (i.e., unconformities, correlative discontinuities and conformities), as commonly done in terrestrial modern stratigraphy. This methodology is defined as "Discontinuity-Bounded Units" or allostratigraphy, and is complemented by geomorphological mapping. Our study focuses on Promethei Lingula (PL) and uses both high-resolution images (CTX, HiRISE) and radargrams (SHARAD) to combine surface and sub-surface observations and obtain a 3D geological reconstruction of the SPLD. One regional discontinuity (named AUR1) was defined within the studied stratigraphic succession and is exposed in several non-contiguous outcrops around PL as well as observed at depth within the ice sheet. This is the primary contact between two major depositional sequences, showing a different texture at CTX resolution. The lower sequence is characterized mainly by a "ridge and trough" morphology (Ridge and Trough Sequence; RTS) and the upper sequence shows mainly by a "stair-stepped" morphology (Stair-Stepped Sequence; SSS). On the basis of the observations, we defined two regional "discontinuity-bounded" units in PL, respectively coinciding with RTS and SSS sequences. Our stratigraphic reconstruction provides new hints on the major scale events that shaped this region. Oscillations in Martian axial obliquity could have controlled local climate conditions in the past, affecting the PL geological record.

Morphological integration in the forelimb of musteloid carnivorans

PubMed Central

Fabre, Anne-Claire; Goswami, Anjali; Peigné, Stéphane; Cornette, Raphaël

2014-01-01

The forelimb forms a functional unit that allows a variety of behaviours and needs to be mobile, yet at the same time stable. Both mobility and stability are controlled, amongst others, at the level of the elbow joint. This joint is composed of the humero-ulnar articulation, mainly involved during parasagittal movements; and the radio-ulnar articulation, mainly allowing rotation. In contrast, the humero-radial articulation allows both movements of flexion–extension and rotation. Here, we study the morphological integration between each bone of the forelimb at the level of the entire arm, as well as at the elbow joint, in musteloid carnivorans. To do so, we quantitatively test shape co-variation using surface 3D geometric morphometric data. Our results show that morphological integration is stronger for bones that form functional units. Different results are obtained depending on the level of investigation: for the entire arm, results show a greater degree of shape co-variation between long bones of the lower arm than between the humerus and either bone of the lower arm. Thus, at this level the functional unit of the lower arm is comprised of the radius and ulna, permitting rotational movements of the lower arm. At the level of the elbow, results display a stronger shape co-variation between bones allowing flexion and stability (humerus and ulna) than between bones allowing mobility (ulna and radius and humerus and radius). Thus, the critical functional unit appears to be the articulation between the humerus and ulna providing the stability of the joint. PMID:24836555

Distributed and recoverable digital control system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stange, Kent (Inventor); Hess, Richard (Inventor); Kelley, Gerald B (Inventor); Rogers, Randy (Inventor)

2010-01-01

A real-time multi-tasking digital control system with rapid recovery capability is disclosed. The control system includes a plurality of computing units comprising a plurality of redundant processing units, with each of the processing units configured to generate one or more redundant control commands. One or more internal monitors are employed for detecting data errors in the control commands. One or more recovery triggers are provided for initiating rapid recovery of a processing unit if data errors are detected. The control system also includes a plurality of actuator control units each in operative communication with the computing units. The actuator control units are configured to initiate a rapid recovery if data errors are detected in one or more of the processing units. A plurality of smart actuators communicates with the actuator control units, and a plurality of redundant sensors communicates with the computing units.

11. VIEW NORTH, SOUTH FRONT OF MAIN OFFICE UNIT (BUILDING ...

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

11. VIEW NORTH, SOUTH FRONT OF MAIN OFFICE UNIT (BUILDING I, 2); SOUTH AND EAST FRONTS OF SEED STORAGE BUILDING (BUILDING 21); EAST FRONT OF GREENHOUSE #1 (BUILDING 5) - U.S. Plant Introduction Station, 11601 Old Pond Road, Glenn Dale, Prince George's County, MD

Study on fault diagnosis and load feedback control system of combine harvester

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Ying; Wang, Kun

2017-01-01

In order to timely gain working status parameters of operating parts in combine harvester and improve its operating efficiency, fault diagnosis and load feedback control system is designed. In the system, rotation speed sensors were used to gather these signals of forward speed and rotation speeds of intermediate shaft, conveying trough, tangential and longitudinal flow threshing rotors, grain conveying auger. Using C8051 single chip microcomputer (SCM) as processor for main control unit, faults diagnosis and forward speed control were carried through by rotation speed ratio analysis of each channel rotation speed and intermediate shaft rotation speed by use of multi-sensor fused fuzzy control algorithm, and these processing results would be sent to touch screen and display work status of combine harvester. Field trials manifest that fault monitoring and load feedback control system has good man-machine interaction and the fault diagnosis method based on rotation speed ratios has low false alarm rate, and the system can realize automation control of forward speed for combine harvester.

Sedimentology of the Ripogenus Formation, Maine: A Silurian carbonate-siliciclastic depositional system

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

Comrie, T.A.; Caldwell, D.W.

The Ripogenus Formation of north-central Maine is shallow marine unit of probable Wenlockian age characterized by interbeds of sandstone and limestone less than 50 cm. in thickness and separated by sharp, often erosional, contacts. Reefal material with abundant stromatoporoids is exposed in the eastern part of the formation and is overlain locally by Silurian andesite and Siluro-Devonian redbeds. Sediment size and bed thickness decrease to the west, as does the relative amount of carbonate sediment. Common fossils also include stromatolites, brachiopods, gastropods, crinoids, and corals. Large fossils, notably the stromatoporoids and stromatolites, are often found in growth position, but smallermore » fossils are usually found to have been abraided and transported. The formation was deposited in an area shown by paleogeographic reconstructions to have been located just south of the equator (probably near one or more islands) in the lapetus Ocean prior to its closure. Although sedimentary structures are often not well preserved due to its closure. Although sedimentary structures are often not well preserved due to soft-sedimentary deformation and slight metamorphism, there is some evidence of storm-controlled deposition. Deposition of this unit and other Silurian carbonates found in Maine and the Maritime Provinces are unlike those found throughout N. America in that they are the product of localized deposition in an unstable tectonic environment.« less

Research Technology

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-08-01

The electro-mechanical actuator, a new electronics technology, is an electronic system that provides the force needed to move valves that control the flow of propellant to the engine. It is proving to be advantageous for the main propulsion system plarned for a second generation reusable launch vehicle. Hydraulic actuators have been used successfully in rocket propulsion systems. However, they can leak when high pressure is exerted on such a fluid-filled hydraulic system. Also, hydraulic systems require significant maintenance and support equipment. The electro-mechanical actuator is proving to be low maintenance and the system weighs less than a hydraulic system. The electronic controller is a separate unit powering the actuator. Each actuator has its own control box. If a problem is detected, it can be replaced by simply removing one defective unit. The hydraulic systems must sustain significant hydraulic pressures in a rocket engine regardless of demand. The electro-mechanical actuator utilizes power only when needed. A goal of the Second Generation Reusable Launch Vehicle Program is to substantially improve safety and reliability while reducing the high cost of space travel. The electro-mechanical actuator was developed by the Propulsion Projects Office of the Second Generation Reusable Launch Vehicle Program at the Marshall Space Flight Center.

Maintenance of CO2 level in a BLSS by controlling solid waste treatment unit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Yingying; Li, Leyuan; Liu, Hong; Fu, Yuming; Xie, Beizhen; Hu, Dawei; Liu, Dianlei; Dong, Chen; Liu, Guanghui

A bioregenerative life support system (BLSS) is an artificial closed ecosystem for providing basic human life support for long-duration, far-distance space explorations such as lunar bases. In such a system, the circulation of gases is one of the main factor for realizing a higher closure degree. O2 produced by higher plants goes to humans, as well as microorganisms for the treatment of inedible plant biomass and human wastes; CO2 produced by the crew and microorganisms is provided for plant growth. During this process, an excessively high CO2 level will depress plant growth and may be harmful to human health; and if the CO2 level is too low, plant growth will also be affected. Thus, keeping the balance between CO2 and O2 levels is a crucial problem. In this study, a high-efficiency, controllable solid waste treatment unit is constructed, which adopts microbial fermentation of the mixture of inedible biomass and human wastes. CO2 production during the fermentation process is controlled by adjusting fermentation temperature, aeration rate, moisture, etc., so as to meet the CO2 requirement of plants

Fall Prevention in Acute Care Hospitals

PubMed Central

Dykes, Patricia C.; Carroll, Diane L.; Hurley, Ann; Lipsitz, Stuart; Benoit, Angela; Chang, Frank; Meltzer, Seth; Tsurikova, Ruslana; Zuyov, Lyubov; Middleton, Blackford

2011-01-01

Context Falls cause injury and death for persons of all ages, but risk of falls increases markedly with age. Hospitalization further increases risk, yet no evidence exists to support short-stay hospital-based fall prevention strategies to reduce patient falls. Objective To investigate whether a fall prevention tool kit (FPTK) using health information technology (HIT) decreases patient falls in hospitals. Design, Setting, and Patients Cluster randomized study conducted January 1, 2009, through June 30, 2009, comparing patient fall rates in 4 urban US hospitals in units that received usual care (4 units and 5104 patients) or the intervention (4 units and 5160 patients). Intervention The FPTK integrated existing communication and workflow patterns into the HIT application. Based on a valid fall risk assessment scale completed by a nurse, the FPTK software tailored fall prevention interventions to address patients’ specific determinants of fall risk. The FPTK produced bed posters composed of brief text with an accompanying icon, patient education handouts, and plans of care, all communicating patient-specific alerts to key stakeholders. Main Outcome Measures The primary outcome was patient falls per 1000 patient-days adjusted for site and patient care unit. A secondary outcome was fall-related injuries. Results During the 6-month intervention period, the number of patients with falls differed between control (n=87) and intervention (n=67) units (P=.02). Site-adjusted fall rates were significantly higher in control units (4.18 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 3.45-5.06] per 1000 patient-days) than in intervention units (3.15 [95% CI, 2.54-3.90] per 1000 patient-days; P=.04). The FPTK was found to be particularly effective with patients aged 65 years or older (adjusted rate difference, 2.08 [95% CI, 0.61-3.56] per 1000 patient-days; P=.003). No significant effect was noted in fall-related injuries. Conclusion The use of a fall prevention tool kit in hospital units compared with usual care significantly reduced rate of falls. PMID:21045097

Red blood cells for transfusion in patients with sepsis: respective roles of unit age and exposure to recipient plasma.

PubMed

Chadebech, Philippe; Bodivit, Gwellaouen; Razazi, Keyvan; de Vassoigne, Christophe; Pellé, Laurence; Burin-des-Roziers, Nicolas; Bocquet, Thibault; Bierling, Philippe; Djoudi, Rachid; Mekontso-Dessap, Armand; Pirenne, France

2017-08-01

Red blood cell (RBC) storage in blood banks is not exempt from cellular injury. Alterations not observed on RBCs freshly isolated from units can rapidly appear in circulation. The transfusion of old blood units, even if this is a controversial issue, could therefore have adverse effects on the recipient. We wanted to determine the respective effects of storage duration and recipient plasma on RBCs for transfusion into patients with severe sepsis. Eleven stored RBC units were sampled at various time points, approximately Days 3 to 8 (referred to as fresh RBCs) and Days 38 to 42 (old RBCs) and tested in coincubation experiments with plasma obtained from 13 patients with severe sepsis and 17 healthy donors as controls. RBCs were tested after 24 or 48 hours at 37°C for the detection of senescence markers (phosphatidylserine exposure, calcium influx, and reactive oxygen species detection and decrease in size) with or without exposure to plasma. We confirmed that a 42-day refrigerated storage of RBCs alone (without any incubation in plasma) had no significant effect on RBCs and no senescence marker detected. By contrast, ex vivo exposure to plasma samples altered both fresh and old RBCs, with a much larger effect for old RBCs, regardless of the plasma used (sepsis vs. control). We show that the main factor affecting the senescence of RBCs for transfusion into patients with severe sepsis is the age of the stored units rather than the clinical status of the recipient. © 2017 AABB.

A new electronic scanner of pressure designed for installation in wind-tunnel models

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Coe, C. T.; Parra, G. T.; Kauffman, R. C.

1981-01-01

A new electronic scanner of pressure (ESOP) has been developed by NASA Ames Research Center for installation in wind-tunnel models. An ESOP system includes up to 20 pressure modules, each with 48 pressure transducers, an A/D converter, a microprocessor, a data controller, a monitor unit, and a heater controller. The system is sized so that the pressure modules and A/D converter module can be installed within an average-size model tested in the Ames Aerodynamics Division wind tunnels. This paper describes the ESOP system, emphasizing the main element of the system - the pressure module. The measured performance of the overall system is also presented.

Characteristics of childhood tuberculosis patients registered under RNTCP in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.

PubMed

Thakur, Harshad P

2013-01-01

Childhood tuberculosis (TB) reflects on-going transmission. Data on childhood TB from TB registers under Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program of 2008 and 2009 in Varanasi district was analyzed. Proportion of childhood TB was 8.3% of total registered cases 12,242. It was lower than estimated 10-20% in endemic areas. In rural Tuberculosis Units childhood case detection was poor. Case detection in ≤5 years was very less. The childhood cases were detected mainly in adolescent age group. Thus, childhood TB is remaining a under diagnosed/under reported disease in India. It needs attention to increase the detection of childhood TB cases to control TB in general population.

[About the problems and prospects of improving of governance in the modern hospital associations].

PubMed

Maksimov, I B; Stoliar, V P

2011-10-01

The problems of efficiency of management of officials of hospital healthcare association of manage of remote branch offices and the structural units of the Main Military Clinical Hospital n. a. N.N. Burdenko is examined. Emphasizes the role of improved information exchange, collect and analyze medical and other information. As a tool, that can provide consolidation and optimal utilization of institutional capacity, and all the information and analytical resources offered to create a situational control center (div) of hospital health-care associations. The result of the introduction will increase div validity and quality of management decisions of the leadership of the words: management, hospital treatment and prevention association, communication, situational control center.

Seismic responses and controlling factors of Miocene deepwater gravity-flow deposits in Block A, Lower Congo Basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Linlin; Wang, Zhenqi; Yu, Shui; Ngia, Ngong Roger

2016-08-01

The Miocene deepwater gravity-flow sedimentary system in Block A of the southwestern part of the Lower Congo Basin was identified and interpreted using high-resolution 3-D seismic, drilling and logging data to reveal development characteristics and main controlling factors. Five types of deepwater gravity-flow sedimentary units have been identified in the Miocene section of Block A, including mass transport, deepwater channel, levee, abandoned channel and sedimentary lobe deposits. Each type of sedimentary unit has distinct external features, internal structures and lateral characteristics in seismic profiles. Mass transport deposits (MTDs) in particular correspond to chaotic low-amplitude reflections in contact with mutants on both sides. The cross section of deepwater channel deposits in the seismic profile is in U- or V-shape. The channel deposits change in ascending order from low-amplitude, poor-continuity, chaotic filling reflections at the bottom, to high-amplitude, moderate to poor continuity, chaotic or sub-parallel reflections in the middle section and to moderate-weak amplitude, good continuity, parallel or sub-parallel reflections in the upper section. The sedimentary lobes are laterally lobate, which corresponds to high-amplitude, good-continuity, moundy reflection signatures in the seismic profile. Due to sediment flux, faults, and inherited terrain, few mass transport deposits occur in the northeastern part of the study area. The front of MTDs is mainly composed of channel-levee complex deposits, while abandoned-channel and lobe-deposits are usually developed in high-curvature channel sections and the channel terminals, respectively. The distribution of deepwater channel, levee, abandoned channel and sedimentary lobe deposits is predominantly controlled by relative sea level fluctuations and to a lesser extent by tectonism and inherited terrain.

Two sides of the safety coin?: How patient engagement and safety climate jointly affect error occurrence in hospital units.

PubMed

Schiffinger, Michael; Latzke, Markus; Steyrer, Johannes

2016-01-01

Safety climate (SC) and more recently patient engagement (PE) have been identified as potential determinants of patient safety, but conceptual and empirical studies combining both are lacking. On the basis of extant theories and concepts in safety research, this study investigates the effect of PE in conjunction with SC on perceived error occurrence (pEO) in hospitals, controlling for various staff-, patient-, and hospital-related variables as well as the amount of stress and (lack of) organizational support experienced by staff. Besides the main effects of PE and SC on error occurrence, their interaction is examined, too. In 66 hospital units, 4,345 patients assessed the degree of PE, and 811 staff assessed SC and pEO. PE was measured with a new instrument, capturing its core elements according to a recent literature review: Information Provision (both active and passive) and Activation and Collaboration. SC and pEO were measured with validated German-language questionnaires. Besides standard regression and correlational analyses, partial least squares analysis was employed to model the main and interaction effects of PE and SC on pEO, also controlling for stress and (lack of) support perceived by staff, various staff and patient attributes, and potential single-source bias. Both PE and SC are associated with lower pEO, to a similar extent. The joint effect of these predictors suggests a substitution rather than mutually reinforcing interaction. Accounting for control variables and/or potential single-source bias slightly attenuates some effects without altering the results. Ignoring PE potentially amounts to forgoing a potential source of additional safety. On the other hand, despite the abovementioned substitution effect and conjectures of SC being inert, PE should not be considered as a replacement for SC.

Improvement of rolling 6 mm thin plates in plate rolling mill PT. Krakatau Posco

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pujiyanto, Hamdani

2017-01-01

A 6-mm thin plate is difficult to produce especially if the product requires wide size and high strength. Flatness is the main quality issue in rolling 6-mm plate using a 4-high reversing mill which use ±1100-mm work roll. Thus some methods are applied to overcome such issue in order to comply to customer quality requirement. Pre-rolling, rolling, and post-rolling conditions have to be considered comprehensively. Roll unit management will be the key factor before rolling condition. The roll unit itself has a significant impact on work roll crown wearness in relation with work roll intial crown and thermal crown. Work roll crown along with the modification of hydraulic gap control (HGC) could directly alter the flatness of the plate.

Effects of Oxygen Partial Pressure on the Surface Tension of Liquid Nickel

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

SanSoucie, Michael P.; Rogers, Jan R.; Gowda, Vijaya Kumar Malahalli Shankare; Rodriguez, Justin; Matson, Douglas M.

2015-01-01

The NASA Marshall Space Flight Center's electrostatic levitation (ESL) laboratory has been recently upgraded with an oxygen partial pressure controller. This system allows the oxygen partial pressure within the vacuum chamber to be measured and controlled, theoretically in the range from 10-36 to 100 bar. The oxygen control system installed in the ESL laboratory's main chamber consists of an oxygen sensor, oxygen pump, and a control unit. The sensor is a potentiometric device that determines the difference in oxygen activity in two gas compartments (inside the chamber and the air outside of the chamber) separated by an electrolyte, which is yttria-stabilized zirconia. The pump utilizes coulometric titration to either add or remove oxygen. The system is controlled by a desktop control unit, which can also be accessed via a computer. The controller performs temperature control for the sensor and pump, PID-based current loop, and a control algorithm. Oxygen partial pressure has been shown to play a significant role in the surface tension of liquid metals. Oxide films or dissolved oxygen may lead to significant changes in surface tension. The effects of oxygen partial pressure on the surface tension of undercooled liquid nickel will be analyzed, and the results will be presented. The surface tension will be measured at several different oxygen partial pressures while the sample is undercooled. Surface tension will be measured using the oscillating drop method. While undercooled, each sample will be oscillated several times consecutively to investigate how the surface tension behaves with time while at a particular oxygen partial pressure.

28 CFR 541.50 - Release from a control unit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... general population of the institution which has a control unit. [49 FR 32991, Aug. 17, 1984, as amended at... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Release from a control unit. 541.50... INMATE DISCIPLINE AND SPECIAL HOUSING UNITS Control Unit Programs § 541.50 Release from a control unit...

28 CFR 541.50 - Release from a control unit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... general population of the institution which has a control unit. [49 FR 32991, Aug. 17, 1984, as amended at... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Release from a control unit. 541.50... INMATE DISCIPLINE AND SPECIAL HOUSING UNITS Control Unit Programs § 541.50 Release from a control unit...

28 CFR 541.50 - Release from a control unit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... general population of the institution which has a control unit. [49 FR 32991, Aug. 17, 1984, as amended at... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Release from a control unit. 541.50... INMATE DISCIPLINE AND SPECIAL HOUSING UNITS Control Unit Programs § 541.50 Release from a control unit...

28 CFR 541.50 - Release from a control unit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... general population of the institution which has a control unit. [49 FR 32991, Aug. 17, 1984, as amended at... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Release from a control unit. 541.50... INMATE DISCIPLINE AND SPECIAL HOUSING UNITS Control Unit Programs § 541.50 Release from a control unit...

28 CFR 541.50 - Release from a control unit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... general population of the institution which has a control unit. [49 FR 32991, Aug. 17, 1984, as amended at... 28 Judicial Administration 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Release from a control unit. 541.50... INMATE DISCIPLINE AND SPECIAL HOUSING UNITS Control Unit Programs § 541.50 Release from a control unit...

Enhancing roll stability of heavy vehicle by LQR active anti-roll bar control using electronic servo-valve hydraulic actuators

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vu, Van Tan; Sename, Olivier; Dugard, Luc; Gaspar, Peter

2017-09-01

Rollover of heavy vehicle is an important road safety problem world-wide. Although rollovers are relatively rare events, they are usually deadly accidents when they occur. The roll stability loss is the main cause of rollover accidents in which heavy vehicles are involved. In order to improve the roll stability, most of modern heavy vehicles are equipped with passive anti-roll bars to reduce roll motion during cornering or riding on uneven roads. However these may be not sufficient to overcome critical situations. This paper introduces the active anti-roll bars made of four electronic servo-valve hydraulic actuators, which are modelled and integrated in a yaw-roll model of a single unit heavy vehicle. The control signal is the current entering the electronic servo-valve and the output is the force generated by the hydraulic actuator. The active control design is achieved solving a linear optimal control problem based on the linear quadratic regulator (LQR) approach. A comparison of several LQR controllers is provided to allow for tackling the considered multi-objective problems. Simulation results in frequency and time domains show that the use of two active anti-roll bars (front and rear axles) drastically improves the roll stability of the single unit heavy vehicle compared with the passive anti-roll bar.

CLOSE UP OF THE RECESSED MAIN ENTRY OF THE UNIT ...

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

CLOSE UP OF THE RECESSED MAIN ENTRY OF THE UNIT - Camp H.M. Smith and Navy Public Works Center Manana Title VII (Capehart) Housing, U-Shaped Two-Bedroom Single-Family Type 6, Birch Circle, Elm Drive, Elm Circle, and Date Drive, Pearl City, Honolulu County, HI

14 CFR 27.725 - Limit drop test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... M for main gear units (lbs.), equal to the static reaction on the particular unit with the... reaction, taking into consideration the moment arm between the main wheel reaction and the rotorcraft... reaction that would exist at the nose wheel, assuming that the mass of the rotorcraft acts at the center of...

A review of recent patents on macroorganisms as biological control agents.

PubMed

Sáenz-de-Cabezón, Francisco Javier; Zalom, Frank G; López-Olguín, Jesús Francisco

2010-01-01

The indiscriminate use of synthetic pesticides has brought undesired problems to human health, agriculture, and the environment. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Biological Control (BC) programs, which are based on minimum use of pesticides, are seen as alternative, more ecological solutions to the unintended problems associated with pesticide use. These programs combine the introduction, augmentation, and/or conservation of pest natural enemies, with other protection tools. Although patents and the process of commercialization of microorganisms has been the subject of various reviews, macroorganisms used for pest and disease control have stimulated less comprehensive analyses. From our review of patents, there has been an enormous increase in the number of macroorganism-related patents registered in the last two decades. Private companies own 65% of all these patents. Rearing methods and crop protection strategies are the main intellectual property patented, with parasitoid wasps and predatory mites being the primary Biological Control Agent (BCA) focus of patents. Among countries, Japan was the first country with these types of patents, followed by the United States, Canada and China. Increasing concern for pesticide risks by governments and the public is seen as the main impetus for change in "traditional" crop protection practices and for investment in other more ecological products like BCAs.

Quo vadis? Microbial profiling revealed strong effects of cleanroom maintenance and routes of contamination in indoor environments

DOE PAGES

Moissl-Eichinger, Christine; Auerbach, Anna K.; Probst, Alexander J.; ...

2015-03-17

Space agencies maintain highly controlled cleanrooms to ensure the demands of planetary protection. To study potential effects of microbiome control, we analyzed microbial communities in two particulate-controlled cleanrooms (ISO 5 and ISO 8) and two vicinal uncontrolled areas (office, changing room) by cultivation and 16S rRNA gene amplicon analysis (cloning, pyrotagsequencing, and PhyloChip G3 analysis). Maintenance procedures affected the microbiome on total abundance and microbial community structure concerning richness, diversity and relative abundance of certain taxa. Cleanroom areas were found to be mainly predominated by potentially human-associated bacteria; archaeal signatures were detected in every area. Results indicate that microorganisms weremore » mainly spread from the changing room (68%) into the cleanrooms, potentially carried along with human activity. The numbers of colony forming units were reduced by up to ~400 fold from the uncontrolled areas towards the ISO 5 cleanroom, accompanied with a reduction of the living portion of microorganisms from 45% (changing area) to 1% of total 16S rRNA gene signatures as revealed via propidium monoazide treatment of the samples. Our results demonstrate the strong effects of cleanroom maintenance on microbial communities in indoor environments and can be used to improve the design and operation of biologically controlled cleanrooms.« less

Quo vadis? Microbial profiling revealed strong effects of cleanroom maintenance and routes of contamination in indoor environments

PubMed Central

Moissl-Eichinger, Christine; Auerbach, Anna K.; Probst, Alexander J.; Mahnert, Alexander; Tom, Lauren; Piceno, Yvette; Andersen, Gary L.; Venkateswaran, Kasthuri; Rettberg, Petra; Barczyk, Simon; Pukall, Rüdiger; Berg, Gabriele

2015-01-01

Space agencies maintain highly controlled cleanrooms to ensure the demands of planetary protection. To study potential effects of microbiome control, we analyzed microbial communities in two particulate-controlled cleanrooms (ISO 5 and ISO 8) and two vicinal uncontrolled areas (office, changing room) by cultivation and 16S rRNA gene amplicon analysis (cloning, pyrotagsequencing, and PhyloChip G3 analysis). Maintenance procedures affected the microbiome on total abundance and microbial community structure concerning richness, diversity and relative abundance of certain taxa. Cleanroom areas were found to be mainly predominated by potentially human-associated bacteria; archaeal signatures were detected in every area. Results indicate that microorganisms were mainly spread from the changing room (68%) into the cleanrooms, potentially carried along with human activity. The numbers of colony forming units were reduced by up to ~400 fold from the uncontrolled areas towards the ISO 5 cleanroom, accompanied with a reduction of the living portion of microorganisms from 45% (changing area) to 1% of total 16S rRNA gene signatures as revealed via propidium monoazide treatment of the samples. Our results demonstrate the strong effects of cleanroom maintenance on microbial communities in indoor environments and can be used to improve the design and operation of biologically controlled cleanrooms. PMID:25778463

Quo vadis? Microbial profiling revealed strong effects of cleanroom maintenance and routes of contamination in indoor environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moissl-Eichinger, Christine; Auerbach, Anna K.; Probst, Alexander J.; Mahnert, Alexander; Tom, Lauren; Piceno, Yvette; Andersen, Gary L.; Venkateswaran, Kasthuri; Rettberg, Petra; Barczyk, Simon; Pukall, Rüdiger; Berg, Gabriele

2015-03-01

Space agencies maintain highly controlled cleanrooms to ensure the demands of planetary protection. To study potential effects of microbiome control, we analyzed microbial communities in two particulate-controlled cleanrooms (ISO 5 and ISO 8) and two vicinal uncontrolled areas (office, changing room) by cultivation and 16S rRNA gene amplicon analysis (cloning, pyrotagsequencing, and PhyloChip G3 analysis). Maintenance procedures affected the microbiome on total abundance and microbial community structure concerning richness, diversity and relative abundance of certain taxa. Cleanroom areas were found to be mainly predominated by potentially human-associated bacteria; archaeal signatures were detected in every area. Results indicate that microorganisms were mainly spread from the changing room (68%) into the cleanrooms, potentially carried along with human activity. The numbers of colony forming units were reduced by up to ~400 fold from the uncontrolled areas towards the ISO 5 cleanroom, accompanied with a reduction of the living portion of microorganisms from 45% (changing area) to 1% of total 16S rRNA gene signatures as revealed via propidium monoazide treatment of the samples. Our results demonstrate the strong effects of cleanroom maintenance on microbial communities in indoor environments and can be used to improve the design and operation of biologically controlled cleanrooms.

Quo vadis? Microbial profiling revealed strong effects of cleanroom maintenance and routes of contamination in indoor environments

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

Moissl-Eichinger, Christine; Auerbach, Anna K.; Probst, Alexander J.

Space agencies maintain highly controlled cleanrooms to ensure the demands of planetary protection. To study potential effects of microbiome control, we analyzed microbial communities in two particulate-controlled cleanrooms (ISO 5 and ISO 8) and two vicinal uncontrolled areas (office, changing room) by cultivation and 16S rRNA gene amplicon analysis (cloning, pyrotagsequencing, and PhyloChip G3 analysis). Maintenance procedures affected the microbiome on total abundance and microbial community structure concerning richness, diversity and relative abundance of certain taxa. Cleanroom areas were found to be mainly predominated by potentially human-associated bacteria; archaeal signatures were detected in every area. Results indicate that microorganisms weremore » mainly spread from the changing room (68%) into the cleanrooms, potentially carried along with human activity. The numbers of colony forming units were reduced by up to ~400 fold from the uncontrolled areas towards the ISO 5 cleanroom, accompanied with a reduction of the living portion of microorganisms from 45% (changing area) to 1% of total 16S rRNA gene signatures as revealed via propidium monoazide treatment of the samples. Our results demonstrate the strong effects of cleanroom maintenance on microbial communities in indoor environments and can be used to improve the design and operation of biologically controlled cleanrooms.« less

Unit costs for house spraying and bednet impregnation with residual insecticides in Colombia: a management tool for the control of vector-borne disease.

PubMed

Kroeger, A; Ayala, C; Medina Lara, A

2002-06-01

A study of unit costs and cost components of two malaria-control strategies (house spraying and bednet impregnation with residual insecticides) was undertaken in 11 malaria-endemic states (departamentos) of Colombia, using data provided by control staff on self-administered questionnaires. The accuracy of the data was verified by personal visits, telephone conversations and complementary information from 10 other states. Allthe financial-cost components of the malaria-control operations carried out in the previous 6 months and the results of the control operations themselves (including the numbers of houses sprayed and numbers of bednets impregnated/day) were recorded. The information was stratified according to whether the target communities were 'near' or 'far away' from an operational base, the far-away communities being those that needed overnight stays by the control staff. The main variables analysed were unit costs/house treated, and annual cost/person protected. The results show that house spraying was generally more expensive for the health services than bednet impregnation. This is particularly the case in 'nearby' communities, where most of those at-risk live. In such communities, spraying one house was 7.2 times more expensive than impregnating one bednet. Even if only those sleeping under an impregnated net were assumed to be protected, the unit costs/person protected in a 'nearby' community were twice as high for house spraying than for bednet impregnation. In 'nearby' communities, where technicians could return to the operational base each evening, insecticides made up 80% of the total spraying costs and 42% of the costs of bednet impregnation. In 'far-away' communities, however, salaries and 'per diems' were the most important cost components, representing, respectively, 23% and 22% of the costs of spraying, and 34% plus 27% of the costs of impregnation. Insecticide wastage and non-use of discounts on insecticide prices (available through the national Ministry of Health) increased the overall costs considerably. The multiple uses of these cost calculations for district health managers are presented.

The BLISS cluster randomised controlled trial of the effect of 'active dissemination of information' on standards of care for premature babies in England (BEADI) study protocol [ISRCTN89683698].

PubMed

Acolet, Dominique; Jelphs, Kim; Davidson, Deborah; Peck, Edward; Clemens, Felicity; Houston, Rosie; Weindling, Michael; Lavis, John; Elbourne, Diana

2007-10-08

Gaps between research knowledge and practice have been consistently reported. Traditional ways of communicating information have limited impact on practice changes. Strategies to disseminate information need to be more interactive and based on techniques reported in systematic reviews of implementation of changes. There is a need for clarification as to which dissemination strategies work best to translate evidence into practice in neonatal units across England. The objective of this trial is to assess whether an innovative active strategy for the dissemination of neonatal research findings, recommendations, and national neonatal guidelines is more likely to lead to changes in policy and practice than the traditional (more passive) forms of dissemination in England. Cluster randomised controlled trial of all neonatal units in England (randomised by hospital, n = 182 and stratified by neonatal regional networks and neonatal units level of care) to assess the relative effectiveness of active dissemination strategies on changes in local policies and practices. Participants will be mainly consultant lead clinicians in each unit. The intervention will be multifaceted using: audit and feedback; educational meetings for local staff (evidence-based lectures on selected topics, interactive workshop to examine current practice and draw up plans for change); and quality improvement and organisational changes methods. Policies and practice outcomes for the babies involved will be collected before and after the intervention. Outcomes will assess all premature babies born in England during a three month period for timing of surfactant administration at birth, temperature control at birth, and resuscitation team (qualification and numbers) present at birth.

A coumaroyl-ester-3-hydroxylase Insertion Mutant Reveals the Existence of Nonredundant meta-Hydroxylation Pathways and Essential Roles for Phenolic Precursors in Cell Expansion and Plant Growth1[W][OA

PubMed Central

Abdulrazzak, Nawroz; Pollet, Brigitte; Ehlting, Jürgen; Larsen, Kim; Asnaghi, Carole; Ronseau, Sebastien; Proux, Caroline; Erhardt, Mathieu; Seltzer, Virginie; Renou, Jean-Pierre; Ullmann, Pascaline; Pauly, Markus; Lapierre, Catherine; Werck-Reichhart, Danièle

2006-01-01

Cytochromes P450 monooxygenases from the CYP98 family catalyze the meta-hydroxylation step in the phenylpropanoid biosynthetic pathway. The ref8 Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) mutant, with a point mutation in the CYP98A3 gene, was previously described to show developmental defects, changes in lignin composition, and lack of soluble sinapoyl esters. We isolated a T-DNA insertion mutant in CYP98A3 and show that this mutation leads to a more drastic inhibition of plant development and inhibition of cell growth. Similar to the ref8 mutant, the insertion mutant has reduced lignin content, with stem lignin essentially made of p-hydroxyphenyl units and trace amounts of guaiacyl and syringyl units. However, its roots display an ectopic lignification and a substantial proportion of guaiacyl and syringyl units, suggesting the occurrence of an alternative CYP98A3-independent meta-hydroxylation mechanism active mainly in the roots. Relative to the control, mutant plantlets produce very low amounts of sinapoyl esters, but accumulate flavonol glycosides. Reduced cell growth seems correlated with alterations in the abundance of cell wall polysaccharides, in particular decrease in crystalline cellulose, and profound modifications in gene expression and homeostasis reminiscent of a stress response. CYP98A3 thus constitutes a critical bottleneck in the phenylpropanoid pathway and in the synthesis of compounds controlling plant development. CYP98A3 cosuppressed lines show a gradation of developmental defects and changes in lignin content (40% reduction) and structure (prominent frequency of p-hydroxyphenyl units), but content in foliar sinapoyl esters is similar to the control. The purple coloration of their leaves is correlated to the accumulation of sinapoylated anthocyanins. PMID:16377748

Nominal group technique: a brainstorming tool for identifying areas to improve pain management in hospitalized patients.

PubMed

Peña, Adolfo; Estrada, Carlos A; Soniat, Debbie; Taylor, Benjamin; Burton, Michael

2012-01-01

Pain management in hospitalized patients remains a priority area for improvement; effective strategies for consensus development are needed to prioritize interventions. To identify challenges, barriers, and perspectives of healthcare providers in managing pain among hospitalized patients. Qualitative and quantitative group consensus using a brainstorming technique for quality improvement-the nominal group technique (NGT). One medical, 1 medical-surgical, and 1 surgical hospital unit at a large academic medical center. Nurses, resident physicians, patient care technicians, and unit clerks. Responses and ranking to the NGT question: "What causes uncontrolled pain in your unit?" Twenty-seven health workers generated a total of 94 ideas. The ideas perceived contributing to a suboptimal pain control were grouped as system factors (timeliness, n = 18 ideas; communication, n = 11; pain assessment, n = 8), human factors (knowledge and experience, n = 16; provider bias, n = 8; patient factors, n = 19), and interface of system and human factors (standardization, n = 14). Knowledge, timeliness, provider bias, and patient factors were the top ranked themes. Knowledge and timeliness are considered main priorities to improve pain control. NGT is an efficient tool for identifying general and context-specific priority areas for quality improvement; teams of healthcare providers should consider using NGT to address their own challenges and barriers. Copyright © 2011 Society of Hospital Medicine.

Nitrogen oxides emissions from thermal power plants in china: current status and future predictions.

PubMed

Tian, Hezhong; Liu, Kaiyun; Hao, Jiming; Wang, Yan; Gao, Jiajia; Qiu, Peipei; Zhu, Chuanyong

2013-10-01

Increasing emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) over the Chinese mainland have been of great concern due to their adverse impacts on regional air quality and public health. To explore and obtain the temporal and spatial characteristics of NOx emissions from thermal power plants in China, a unit-based method is developed. The method assesses NOx emissions based on detailed information on unit capacity, boiler and burner patterns, feed fuel types, emission control technologies, and geographical locations. The national total NOx emissions in 2010 are estimated at 7801.6 kt, of which 5495.8 kt is released from coal-fired power plant units of considerable size between 300 and 1000 MW. The top provincial emitter is Shandong where plants are densely concentrated. The average NOx-intensity is estimated at 2.28 g/kWh, markedly higher than that of developed countries, mainly owing to the inadequate application of high-efficiency denitrification devices such as selective catalytic reduction (SCR). Future NOx emissions are predicted by applying scenario analysis, indicating that a reduction of about 40% by the year 2020 can be achieved compared with emissions in 2010. These results suggest that NOx emissions from Chinese thermal power plants could be substantially mitigated within 10 years if reasonable control measures were implemented effectively.

Structural Alterations of Lignins in Transgenic Poplars with Depressed Cinnamyl Alcohol Dehydrogenase or Caffeic Acid O-Methyltransferase Activity Have an Opposite Impact on the Efficiency of Industrial Kraft Pulping1

PubMed Central

Lapierre, Catherine; Pollet, Brigitte; Petit-Conil, Michel; Toval, Gabriel; Romero, Javier; Pilate, Gilles; Leplé, Jean-Charles; Boerjan, Wout; Ferret, Valérie; De Nadai, Véronique; Jouanin, Lise

1999-01-01

We evaluated lignin profiles and pulping performances of 2-year-old transgenic poplar (Populus tremula × Populus alba) lines severely altered in the expression of caffeic acid/5-hydroxyferulic acid O-methyltransferase (COMT) or cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD). Transgenic poplars with CAD or COMT antisense constructs showed growth similar to control trees. CAD down-regulated poplars displayed a red coloration mainly in the outer xylem. A 90% lower COMT activity did not change lignin content but dramatically increased the frequency of guaiacyl units and resistant biphenyl linkages in lignin. This alteration severely lowered the efficiency of kraft pulping. The Klason lignin level of CAD-transformed poplars was slightly lower than that of the control. Whereas CAD down-regulation did not change the frequency of labile ether bonds or guaiacyl units in lignin, it increased the proportion of syringaldehyde and diarylpropane structures and, more importantly with regard to kraft pulping, of free phenolic groups in lignin. In the most depressed line, ASCAD21, a substantially higher content in free phenolic units facilitated lignin solubilization and fragmentation during kraft pulping. These results point the way to genetic modification of lignin structure to improve wood quality for the pulp industry. PMID:9880356

Surgical wound infection rates in Spain: data summary, January 1997 through June 2012.

PubMed

Díaz-Agero Pérez, Cristina; Robustillo Rodela, Ana; Pita López, María José; López Fresneña, Nieves; Monge Jodrá, Vicente

2014-05-01

The Indicadores Clínicos de Mejora Continua de la Calidad (INCLIMECC) program was established in Spain in 1997. INCLIMECC is a prospective system of health care-associated infection (HAI) surveillance that collects incidence data in surgical and intensive care unit patients. The protocol is based on the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN) surveillance system, formerly known as the National Nosocomial Infection Surveillance (NNIS) system, and uses standard infection definitions from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Each hospital takes part voluntarily and selects the units and surgical procedures to be surveyed. This report is a summary of the data collected between January 1997 and June 2012. A total of 370,015 patients were included, and the overall incidence of surgical wound infection (SWI) was 4.51%. SWI rates are provided by NHSN operating procedure category and NNIS risk index category. More than 27% of the patients received inadequate antibiotic prophylaxis, the main reason being unsuitable duration (57.05% of cases). Today, the INCLIMECC network includes 64 Spanish hospitals. We believe that an HAI surveillance system with trained personnel external to the surveyed unit is a key component not only in infection control and prevention, but also in a quality improvement system. Copyright © 2014. Published by Mosby, Inc.

ARCADE-R2 experiment on board BEXUS 17 stratospheric balloon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barbetta, Marco; Boesso, Alessandro; Branz, Francesco; Carron, Andrea; Olivieri, Lorenzo; Prendin, Jacopo; Rodeghiero, Gabriele; Sansone, Francesco; Savioli, Livia; Spinello, Fabio; Francesconi, Alessandro

2015-09-01

This paper provides an overview of the ARCADE-R2 experiment, a technology demonstrator that aimed to prove the feasibility of small-scale satellite and/or aircraft systems with automatic (a) attitude determination, (b) control and (c) docking capabilities. The experiment embodies a simplified scenario in which an unmanned vehicle mock-up performs rendezvous and docking operations with a fixed complementary unit. The experiment is composed by a supporting structure, which holds a small vehicle with one translational and one rotational degree of freedom, and its fixed target. The dual system features three main custom subsystems: a relative infrared navigation sensor, an attitude control system based on a reaction wheel and a small-scale docking mechanism. The experiment bus is equipped with pressure and temperature sensors, and wind probes to monitor the external environmental conditions. The experiment flew on board the BEXUS 17 stratospheric balloon on October 10, 2013, where several navigation-control-docking sequences were executed and data on the external pressure, temperature, wind speed and direction were collected, characterizing the atmospheric loads applied to the vehicle. This paper describes the critical components of ARCADE-R2 as well as the main results obtained from the balloon flight.

Single-channel ground airborne radio system (SINCGARS) based remote control for the M1 Abrahms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Urda, Joseph R.

1995-04-01

Remote control of the Ml Abrahms Main Battle Tank through a minefield breach operation will remove the vehicle crew from the inherent hazard. A successful remote control system will provide automotive control yet not impair normal operation. This requires a minimum of physical parts, and an unobtrusive installation. Most importantly, a system failure must not impair the regular operation as a manned system. The system itself need not be complex. A minefield breach only requires simple control of automotive function and a mine plow interface. Control hardware for the Ml-Al can be reduced to two linear actuators, an electrical interface for the engine control unit, an interface for the mine plow, and the associated cables. Communication between vehicle control and operator control takes place over the vehicles organic radio (typically SINCGARS). This helps reduce the number of special purpose components for the remote control device. The device is currently awaiting an automotive safety test to prepare for its safety release. Because of the specific nature of the MDL-STD 1553-B data bus the device will not control an M1-A2 Main Battle Tank. The architecture will allow control of the M1-A2 through the 1553-B data bus however the physical hardware has not been constructed. The control scheme will not change. The communication interface will provide greater flexibility when interfacing to the vehicle tactical radio. Operational utility will be determined by U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command personnel. The obvious benefit is that if a remote tank is lost during a minefield breach the crew is saved.

Development Status of the NSTAR Ion Propulsion System Power Processor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hamley, John A.; Pinero, Luis R.; Rawlin, Vincent K.; Miller, John R.; Cartier, Kevin C.; Bowers, Glen E.

1995-01-01

A 0.5-2.3 kW xenon ion propulsion system is presently being developed under the NASA Solar Electric Propulsion Technology Application Readiness (NSTAR) program. This propulsion system includes a 30 cm diameter xenon ion thruster, a Digital Control Interface Unit, a xenon feed system, and a power processing unit (PPU). The PPU consists of the power supply assemblies which operate the thruster neutralizer, main discharge chamber, and ion optics. Also included are recycle logic and a digital microcontroller. The neutralizer and discharge power supplies employ a dual use configuration which combines the functions of two power supplies into one, significantly simplifying the PPU. Further simplification was realized by implementing a single thruster control loop which regulates the beam current via the discharge current. Continuous throttling is possible over a 0.5-2.3 kW output power range. All three power supplies have been fabricated and tested with resistive loads, and have been combined into a single breadboard unit with the recycle logic and microcontroller. All line and load regulation test results show the power supplies to be within the NSTAR flight PPU specified power output of 1.98 kW. The overall efficiency of the PPU, calculated as the combined efficiencies of the power supplies and controller, at 2.3 kW delivered to resistive loads was 0.90. The component was 6.16 kg. Integration testing of the neutralizer and discharge power supplies with a functional model thruster revealed no issues with discharge ignition or steady state operation.

4. FLOOR PLAN AND SECTIONS, ADDITION TO POWER HOUSE. United ...

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

4. FLOOR PLAN AND SECTIONS, ADDITION TO POWER HOUSE. United Engineering Company Ltd., Alameda Shipyard. Also includes plot plan at 1 inch to 100 feet. John Hudspeth, architect, foot of Main Street, Alameda, California. Sheet 3. Plan no. 10,548. Scale 1/4 inch and h inch to the foot. April 30, 1945, last revised 6/22/45. pencil on vellum - United Engineering Company Shipyard, Boiler House, 2900 Main Street, Alameda, Alameda County, CA

KSC-07pd2026

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, workers are ready to move a main bus switching unit into Discovery's payload bay. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-07pd2028

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, workers check the placement of a main bus switching unit in Discovery's payload bay. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-07pd2024

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, a crane moves the main bus switching unit that will be installed in Discovery's payload bay. The unit is part of the payload on mission STS-120. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-07pd2023

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, a crane lifts the main bus switching unit that will be installed in Discovery's payload bay. The unit is part of the payload on mission STS-120. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

Strategies for Maximizing Successful Drug Substance Technology Transfer Using Engineering, Shake-Down, and Wet Test Runs.

PubMed

Abraham, Sushil; Bain, David; Bowers, John; Larivee, Victor; Leira, Francisco; Xie, Jasmina

2015-01-01

The technology transfer of biological products is a complex process requiring control of multiple unit operations and parameters to ensure product quality and process performance. To achieve product commercialization, the technology transfer sending unit must successfully transfer knowledge about both the product and the process to the receiving unit. A key strategy for maximizing successful scale-up and transfer efforts is the effective use of engineering and shake-down runs to confirm operational performance and product quality prior to embarking on good manufacturing practice runs such as process performance qualification runs. We consider key factors to consider in making the decision to perform shake-down or engineering runs. We also present industry benchmarking results of how engineering runs are used in drug substance technology transfers alongside the main themes and best practices that have emerged. Our goal is to provide companies with a framework for ensuring the "right first time" technology transfers with effective deployment of resources within increasingly aggressive timeline constraints. © PDA, Inc. 2015.

Conceptual design of free-piston Stirling conversion system for solar power units

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loktionov, Iu. V.

A conversion system has been conceptually designed for solar power units of the dish-Stirling type. The main design objectives were to demonstrate the possibility of attaining such performance characteristics as low manufacturing and life cycle costs, high reliability, long life, high efficiency, power output stability, self-balance, automatic (or self-) start-up, and easy maintenance. The system design includes a heat transfer and utilization subsystem with a solar receiver, a free-piston engine, an electric power generation subsystem, and a control subsystem. The working fluid is helium. The structural material is stainless steel for hot elements, aluminum alloys and plastics for others. The electric generation subunit can be fabricated in three options: with an induction linear alternator, with a permanent magnet linear alternator, and with a serial rotated induction generator and a hydraulic drive subsystem. The heat transfer system is based on heat pipes or the reflux boiler principle. Several models of heat transfer units using a liquid metal (Na or Na-K) have been created and demonstrated.

Analysis of torque transmitting behavior and wheel slip prevention control during regenerative braking for high speed EMU trains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Kun; Xu, Guo-Qing; Zheng, Chun-Hua

2016-04-01

The wheel-rail adhesion control for regenerative braking systems of high speed electric multiple unit trains is crucial to maintaining the stability, improving the adhesion utilization, and achieving deep energy recovery. There remain technical challenges mainly because of the nonlinear, uncertain, and varying features of wheel-rail contact conditions. This research analyzes the torque transmitting behavior during regenerative braking, and proposes a novel methodology to detect the wheel-rail adhesion stability. Then, applications to the wheel slip prevention during braking are investigated, and the optimal slip ratio control scheme is proposed, which is based on a novel optimal reference generation of the slip ratio and a robust sliding mode control. The proposed methodology achieves the optimal braking performance without the wheel-rail contact information. Numerical simulation results for uncertain slippery rails verify the effectiveness of the proposed methodology.

A modular robust control framework for control of movement elicited by multi-electrode intraspinal microstimulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roshani, Amir; Erfanian, Abbas

2016-08-01

Objective. An important issue in restoring motor function through intraspinal microstimulation (ISMS) is the motor control. To provide a physiologically plausible motor control using ISMS, it should be able to control the individual motor unit which is the lowest functional unit of motor control. By focal stimulation only a small group of motor neurons (MNs) within a motor pool can be activated. Different groups of MNs within a motor pool can potentially be activated without involving adjacent motor pools by local stimulation of different parts of a motor pool via microelectrode array implanted into a motor pool. However, since the system has multiple inputs with single output during multi-electrode ISMS, it poses a challenge to movement control. In this paper, we proposed a modular robust control strategy for movement control, whereas multi-electrode array is implanted into each motor activation pool of a muscle. Approach. The controller was based on the combination of proportional-integral-derivative and adaptive fuzzy sliding mode control. The global stability of the controller was guaranteed. Main results. The results of the experiments on rat models showed that the multi-electrode control can provide a more robust control and accurate tracking performance than a single-electrode control. The control output can be pulse amplitude (pulse amplitude modulation, PAM) or pulse width (pulse width modulation, PWM) of the stimulation signal. The results demonstrated that the controller with PAM provided faster convergence rate and better tracking performance than the controller with PWM. Significance. This work represents a promising control approach to the restoring motor functions using ISMS. The proposed controller requires no prior knowledge about the dynamics of the system to be controlled and no offline learning phase. The proposed control design is modular in the sense that each motor pool has an independent controller and each controller is able to control ISMS through an array of microelectrodes.

Status of Electrostatic Accelerometer Development for Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment Follow-On Mission (GRACE FO)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perrot, Eddy; Boulanger, Damien; Christophe, Bruno; Foulon, Bernard; Liorzou, Françoise; Lebat, Vincent; Huynh, Phuong-Anh

2015-04-01

The GRACE FO mission, led by the JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory), is an Earth-orbiting gravity mission, continuation of the GRACE mission, which will produce an accurate model of the Earth's gravity field variation providing global climatic data during five years at least. The mission involves two satellites in a loosely controlled tandem formation, with a micro-wave link measuring the inter-satellites distance variation. Earth's mass distribution non-uniformities cause variations of the inter-satellite distance. This variation is measured to recover gravity, after subtracting the non-gravitational contributors, as the residual drag. ONERA (the French Aerospace Lab) is developing, manufacturing and testing electrostatic accelerometers measuring this residual drag applied on the satellites. The accelerometer is composed of two main parts: the Sensor Unit (including the Sensor Unit Mechanics - SUM - and the Front-End Electronic Unit - FEEU) and the Interface Control Unit - ICU. In the Accelerometer Core, located in the Sensor Unit Mechanics, the proof mass is levitated and maintained at the center of an electrode cage by electrostatic forces. Thus, any drag acceleration applied on the satellite involves a variation on the servo-controlled electrostatic suspension of the mass. The voltage on the electrodes providing this electrostatic force is the measurement output of the accelerometer. The impact of the accelerometer defaults (geometry, electronic and parasitic forces) leads to bias, misalignment and scale factor error, non-linearity and noise. Some of these accelerometer defaults are characterized by tests with micro-gravity pendulum bench on ground and with drops in ZARM catapult. The Critical Design Review was achieved successfully on September 2014. The Engineering Model (EM) was integrated and tested successfully, with ground levitation, drops, Electromagnetic Compatibility and thermal vacuum. The integration of the first Flight Model has begun on December 2014 and will be achieved on January 2015. The results of the Engineering Model tests and the status of the Flight Models will be presented.

Tests Results of the Electrostatic Accelerometer Flight Models for Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment Follow-On Mission (GRACE FO)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perrot, E.; Boulanger, D.; Christophe, B.; Foulon, B.; Lebat, V.; Huynh, P. A.; Liorzou, F.

2015-12-01

The GRACE FO mission, led by the JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory), is an Earth-orbiting gravity mission, continuation of the GRACE mission, which will produce an accurate model of the Earth's gravity field variation providing global climatic data during five years at least. The mission involves two satellites in a loosely controlled tandem formation, with a micro-wave link measuring the inter-satellites distance variation. Earth's mass distribution non-uniformities cause variations of the inter-satellite distance. This variation is measured to recover gravity, after subtracting the non-gravitational contributors, as the residual drag. ONERA (the French Aerospace Lab) is developing, manufacturing and testing electrostatic accelerometers measuring this residual drag applied on the satellites. The accelerometer is composed of two main parts: the Sensor Unit (including the Sensor Unit Mechanics - SUM - and the Front-End Electronic Unit - FEEU) and the Interface Control Unit - ICU. In the Accelerometer Core, located in the Sensor Unit Mechanics, the proof mass is levitated and maintained at the center of an electrode cage by electrostatic forces. Thus, any drag acceleration applied on the satellite involves a variation on the servo-controlled electrostatic suspension of the mass. The voltage on the electrodes providing this electrostatic force is the output measurement of the accelerometer. The impact of the accelerometer defaults (geometry, electronic and parasitic forces) leads to bias, misalignment and scale factor error, non-linearity and noise. Some of these accelerometer defaults are characterized by tests with micro-gravity pendulum bench on ground and with drops in ZARM catapult. The Critical Design Review was achieved successfully on September 2014. The Engineering Model (EM) was integrated and tested successfully, with ground levitation, drops, Electromagnetic Compatibility and thermal vacuum. The integration of the two Flight Models was done on July 2015. The tests will be achieved from July to November 2015. The results of the Engineering Model and Flight Models tests will be presented.

Proposals for the implementation of the variants of automatic control of the telescope AZT-2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shavlovskyi, V. I.; Puha, S. P.; Vidmachenko, A. P.; Volovyk, D. V.; Puha, G. P.; Obolonskyi, V. O.; Kratko, O. O.; Stefurak, M. V.

2018-05-01

Based on the experience of astronomical observations, structural features and results of the review of the technical state of the mechanism of the telescope AZT-2 in the Main Astronomical Observatory of NAS of Ukraine, in 2012 it was decided to carry out works on its modernization. To this end, it was suggested that the telescope control system should consist of angle sensors on the time axis "alpha" and the axis "delta", personal computer (PC), corresponding software, power control unit, and rotation system of telescope. The angle sensor should be absolute, with a resolution of better than 10 angular minutes. The PC should perform the functions of data processing from the angle sensor, and control the power node. The developed software allows the operator to direct the telescope in an automatic mode, and to set the necessary parameters of the system. With using of PC, the power control node will directly control the engine of the rotation system.

Water chemistry of the secondary circuit at a nuclear power station with a VVER power reactor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tyapkov, V. F.; Erpyleva, S. F.

2017-05-01

Results of implementation of the secondary circuit organic amine water chemistry at Russian nuclear power plant (NPP) with VVER-1000 reactors are presented. The requirements for improving the reliability, safety, and efficiency of NPPs and for prolonging the service life of main equipment items necessitate the implementation of new technologies, such as new water chemistries. Data are analyzed on the chemical control of power unit coolant for quality after the changeover to operation with the feed of higher amines, such as morpholine and ethanolamine. Power units having equipment containing copper alloy components were converted from the all-volatile water chemistry to the ethanolamine or morpholine water chemistry with no increase in pH of the steam generator feedwater. This enables the iron content in the steam generator feedwater to be decreased from 6-12 to 2.0-2.5 μg/dm3. It is demonstrated that pH of high-temperature water is among the basic factors controlling erosion and corrosion wear of the piping and the ingress of corrosion products into NPP steam generators. For NPP power units having equipment whose construction material does not include copper alloys, the water chemistries with elevated pH of the secondary coolant are adopted. Stable dosing of correction chemicals at these power units maintains pH25 of 9.5 to 9.7 in the steam generator feedwater with a maximum iron content of 2 μg/dm3 in the steam generator feedwater.

Development and Flight Testing of an Autonomous Landing Gear Health-Monitoring System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodard, Stanley E.; Coffey, Neil C.; Gonzalez, Guillermo A.; Taylor, B. Douglas; Brett, Rube R.; Woodman, Keith L.; Weathered, Brenton W.; Rollins, Courtney H.

2003-01-01

Development and testing of an adaptable vehicle health-monitoring architecture is presented. The architecture is being developed for a fleet of vehicles. It has three operational levels: one or more remote data acquisition units located throughout the vehicle; a command and control unit located within the vehicle; and, a terminal collection unit to collect analysis results from all vehicles. Each level is capable of performing autonomous analysis with a trained expert system. Communication between all levels is done with wireless radio frequency interfaces. The remote data acquisition unit has an eight channel programmable digital interface that allows the user discretion for choosing type of sensors; number of sensors, sensor sampling rate and sampling duration for each sensor. The architecture provides framework for a tributary analysis. All measurements at the lowest operational level are reduced to provide analysis results necessary to gauge changes from established baselines. These are then collected at the next level to identify any global trends or common features from the prior level. This process is repeated until the results are reduced at the highest operational level. In the framework, only analysis results are forwarded to the next level to reduce telemetry congestion. The system's remote data acquisition hardware and non-analysis software have been flight tested on the NASA Langley B757's main landing gear. The flight tests were performed to validate the following: the wireless radio frequency communication capabilities of the system, the hardware design, command and control; software operation; and, data acquisition, storage and retrieval.

Test Program of the "Combined Data and Power Management Infrastructure"

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eickhoff, Jens; Fritz, Michael; Witt, Rouven; Bucher, Nico; Roser, Hans-Peter

2013-08-01

As already published in previous DASIA papers, the University of Stuttgart, Germany, is developing an advanced 3-axis stabilized small satellite applying industry standards for command/control techniques and Onboard Software design. This satellite furthermore features an innovative hybrid architecture of Onboard Computer and Power Control and Distribution Unit. One of the main challenges was the development of an ultra-compact and performing Onboard Computer (OBC), which was intended to support an RTEMS operating system, a PUS standard based Onboard Software (OBSW) and CCSDS standard based ground/space communication. The developed architecture (see [1, 2, 3]) is called a “Combined Onboard Data and Power Management Infrastructure” - CDPI. It features: The OBC processor boards based on a LEON3FT architecture - from Aeroflex Inc., USA The I/O Boards for all OBC digital interfaces to S/C equipment (digital RIU) - from 4Links Ltd. UK CCSDS TC/TM decoder/encoder boards - with same HW design as I/O boards - just with limited number of interfaces. HW from 4Links Ltd, UK, driver SW and IP-Core from Aeroflex Gaisler, SE Analog RIU functions via enhanced PCDU from Vectronic Aerospace, D OBC reconfiguration unit functions via Common Controller - here in PCDU [4] The CDPI overall assembly is meanwhile complete and a exhaustive description can be found in [5]. The EM test campaign including the HW/SW compatibility testing is finalized. This comprises all OBC EM units, OBC EM assembly and the EM PCDU. The unit test program for the FM Processor-Boards and Power-Boards of the OBC are completed and the unit tests of FM I/O-Boards and CCSDS-Boards have been completed by 4Links at the assembly house. The subsystem tests of the assembled OBC also are completed and the overall System tests of the CDPI with system reconfiguration in diverse possible FDIR cases also reach the last steps. Still ongoing is the subsequent integration of the CDPI with the satellite's avionics components encompassing TTC, AOCS, Power and Payload Control. This paper provides a full picture of the test campaign. Further details can be taken from

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

Yang, Qichun; Zhang, Xuesong; Xu, Xingya

Riverine carbon cycling is an important, but insufficiently investigated component of the global carbon cycle. Analyses of environmental controls on riverine carbon cycling are critical for improved understanding of mechanisms regulating carbon processing and storage along the terrestrial-aquatic continuum. Here, we compile and analyze riverine dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration data from 1402 United States Geological Survey (USGS) gauge stations to examine the spatial variability and environmental controls of DOC concentrations in the United States (U.S.) surface waters. DOC concentrations exhibit high spatial variability, with an average of 6.42 ± 6.47 mg C/ L (Mean ± Standard Deviation). In general,more » high DOC concentrations occur in the Upper Mississippi River basin and the Southeastern U.S., while low concentrations are mainly distributed in the Western U.S. Single-factor analysis indicates that slope of drainage areas, wetlands, forests, percentage of first-order streams, and instream nutrients (such as nitrogen and phosphorus) pronouncedly influence DOC concentrations, but the explanatory power of each bivariate model is lower than 35%. Analyses based on the general multi-linear regression models suggest DOC concentrations are jointly impacted by multiple factors. Soil properties mainly show positive correlations with DOC concentrations; forest and shrub lands have positive correlations with DOC concentrations, but urban area and croplands demonstrate negative impacts; total instream phosphorus and dam density correlate positively with DOC concentrations. Notably, the relative importance of these environmental controls varies substantially across major U.S. water resource regions. In addition, DOC concentrations and environmental controls also show significant variability from small streams to large rivers, which may be caused by changing carbon sources and removal rates by river orders. In sum, our results reveal that general multi-linear regression analysis of twenty one terrestrial and aquatic environmental factors can partially explain (56%) the DOC concentration variation. In conclusion, this study highlights the complexity of the interactions among these environmental factors in determining DOC concentrations, thus calls for processes-based, non-linear methodologies to constrain uncertainties in riverine DOC cycling.« less

76 FR 75508 - United States Navy Restricted Area, SUPSHIP Bath Maine Detachment Mobile at AUSTAL, USA, Mobile...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-12-02

... DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers 33 CFR Part 334 United States Navy Restricted Area, SUPSHIP Bath Maine Detachment Mobile at AUSTAL, USA, Mobile, AL; Restricted Area... craft, except those vessels under the supervision or contract to local military or Naval authority...

14 CFR 29.725 - Limit drop test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

....), equal to the static reaction on the particular unit with the rotorcraft in the most critical attitude. A rational method may be used in computing a main gear static reaction, taking into consideration the moment arm between the main wheel reaction and the rotorcraft center of gravity. W=W N for nose gear units...

14 CFR 29.725 - Limit drop test.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

....), equal to the static reaction on the particular unit with the rotorcraft in the most critical attitude. A rational method may be used in computing a main gear static reaction, taking into consideration the moment arm between the main wheel reaction and the rotorcraft center of gravity. W=W N for nose gear units...

Viral hepatitis C and B among dialysis patients at the Rabat University Hospital: prevalence and risk factors.

PubMed

Lioussfi, Zineb; Errami, Zineb; Radoui, Aicha; Rhou, Hakima; Ezzaitouni, Fatima; Ouzeddoun, Naima; Bayahia, Rabea; Benamar, Loubna

2014-05-01

The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) in maintenance hemodialysis (HD) and continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients at the Rabat University Hospital and to identify the major risk factors for transmission. A retrospective study was performed in 67 chronic HD and 36 peritoneal dialysis patients. For the screening of viral infections, we tested for anti-HCV antibodies and HBs antigen (Hbs Ag). We compared infected and non-infected patients in order to determine the risk factors for contamination. In the HD unit, the prevalence of anti-HCV was 60% and the prevalence of HBs Ag was 6%. Duration of dialysis (P = 0.001) was the only risk factor in our HD patients. In peritoneal dialysis (PD), the prevalence of anti-HCV was 8%. Hbs Ag was detected in 2.6% of our PD patients. Viral hepatitis C is the main viral infection in our HD unit. The duration of dialysis is the main risk factor for infection in our study. The transmission is essentially nosocomial, requiring a strict adherence to infection control procedures.

Reactor vessel annealing system

DOEpatents

Miller, Phillip E.; Katz, Leonoard R.; Nath, Raymond J.; Blaushild, Ronald M.; Tatch, Michael D.; Kordalski, Frank J.; Wykstra, Donald T.; Kavalkovich, William M.

1991-01-01

A system for annealing a vessel (14) in situ by heating the vessel (14) to a defined temperature, composed of: an electrically operated heater assembly (10) insertable into the vessel (14) for heating the vessel (14) to the defined temperature; temperature monitoring components positioned relative to the heater assembly (10) for monitoring the temperature of the vessel (14); a controllable electric power supply unit (32-60) for supplying electric power required by the heater assembly (10); a control unit (80-86) for controlling the power supplied by the power supply unit (32-60); a first vehicle (2) containing the power supply unit (32-60); a second vehicle (4) containing the control unit (80-86); power conductors (18,22) connectable between the power supply unit (32-60) and the heater unit (10) for delivering the power supplied by the power supply unit (32-60) to the heater assembly (10); signal conductors (20,24) connectable between the temperature monitoring components and the control unit (80-86) for delivering temperature indicating signals from the temperature monitoring components to the control unit (80-86); and control conductors (8) connectable between the control unit (80-86) and the power supply unit (32-60) for delivering to the power supply unit (32-60) control signals for controlling the level of power supplied by the power supply unit (32-60) to the heater assembly (10).

28 CFR 541.49 - Review of control unit placement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

.... Once every 30 days, the control unit team, comprised of the control unit manager and other members... required to attend the team meeting in order to be eligible for the previous month's stay in the control unit to be credited towards the projected duration of confinement in that unit. The unit team shall...

21 CFR 211.22 - Responsibilities of quality control unit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 4 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Responsibilities of quality control unit. 211.22... Personnel § 211.22 Responsibilities of quality control unit. (a) There shall be a quality control unit that... have been fully investigated. The quality control unit shall be responsible for approving or rejecting...

21 CFR 211.22 - Responsibilities of quality control unit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 4 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Responsibilities of quality control unit. 211.22... Personnel § 211.22 Responsibilities of quality control unit. (a) There shall be a quality control unit that... have been fully investigated. The quality control unit shall be responsible for approving or rejecting...

Design of the thermal insulating test system for doors and windows of buildings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Yan; Qi, Jinqing; Xu, Yunwei; Wu, Hao; Ou, Jinping

2011-04-01

Thermal insulating properties of doors and widows are important parameter to measure the quality of windows and doors. This paper develops the thermal insulating test system of doors and windows for large temperature difference in winter in north of China according to national standards. This system is integrated with temperature measurement subsystem, temperature control subsystem, the heating power measurement subsystem, and heat transfer coefficient calculated subsystem. The temperature measurement subsystem includes temperature sensor which is implemented by sixty-four thermocouple sensors to measure the key positions of cold room and hot room, and the temperature acquisition unit which adopts Agilent 34901A data acquisition card to achieve self-compensation and accurate temperature capture. The temperature control subsystem including temperature controller and compressor system is used to control the temperature between 0 degree to 20 degree for hot room and -20 degree to 0 degree for cold room. The hot room controller uses fuzzy control algorithm to achieve accurate control of temperature and the cold room controller firstly uses compressor to achieve coarse control and then uses more accurate temperature controller unit to obtain constant temperature(-20 degree). The heating power measurement is mainly to get the heat power of hot room heating devices. After above constant temperature environment is constructed, software of the test system is developed. Using software, temperature data and heat power data can be accurately got and then the heat transfer coefficient, representing the thermal insulating properties of doors and widows, is calculated using the standard formula. Experimental results show that the test system is simple, reliable and precise. It meets the testing requirements of national standard and has a good application prospect.

Geologic map of the Sherbrooke-Lewiston area, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, United States, and Quebec, Canada

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moench, R.H.; Boone, G.M.; Bothner, Wallace A.; Boudette, E.L.; Hatch, N.L.; Hussey, A. M.; Marvinney, R.G.

1995-01-01

This map is part of a folio of maps of the Lewiston 1° x 2° quadrangle, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, and part of the Sherbrooke 1° x 2° quadrangle, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, United States, and Quebec, Canada, prepared under the Conterminous United States Mineral Assessment Program (CUSMAP). Adjacent areas in Quebec are shown, in order to illustrate the geologic continuity between northwestern Maine and northern Vermont and New Hampshire. Other results of the project are contained in reports by Nowlan and others (1990a,b,c; stream sediment geochemistry), and Cox (1990; potential tin resources related to the White Mountain Plutonic-Volcanic Suite), Bothner and others (in press; complete Bouguer gravity and aeromagnetic maps), Moench and Boudette (in press, geologic synthesis and mineral occurrence map), and Moench (in press; metallic mineral resources).

Method and system for redundancy management of distributed and recoverable digital control system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stange, Kent (Inventor); Hess, Richard (Inventor); Kelley, Gerald B (Inventor); Rogers, Randy (Inventor)

2012-01-01

A method and system for redundancy management is provided for a distributed and recoverable digital control system. The method uses unique redundancy management techniques to achieve recovery and restoration of redundant elements to full operation in an asynchronous environment. The system includes a first computing unit comprising a pair of redundant computational lanes for generating redundant control commands. One or more internal monitors detect data errors in the control commands, and provide a recovery trigger to the first computing unit. A second redundant computing unit provides the same features as the first computing unit. A first actuator control unit is configured to provide blending and monitoring of the control commands from the first and second computing units, and to provide a recovery trigger to each of the first and second computing units. A second actuator control unit provides the same features as the first actuator control unit.

Policies of Inclusion

PubMed Central

Fairchild, Amy L.

2004-01-01

The racial politics of immigration have punctuated national discussions about immigration at different periods in US history, particularly when concerns about losing an American way of life or American population have coincided with concerns about infectious diseases. Nevertheless, the main theme running through American immigration policy is one of inclusion. The United States has historically been a nation reliant on immigrant labor and, accordingly, the most consequential public policies regarding immigration have responded to disease and its economic burdens by seeking to control the behavior of immigrants within our borders rather than excluding immigrants at our borders. PMID:15053996

12. GENERAL VIEW TO THE WEST FROM NEAR BUILDING NO. ...

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

12. GENERAL VIEW TO THE WEST FROM NEAR BUILDING NO. 14 (CONTROL HOUSE FOR DRY DOCK), NOW LOCATED AT THE EAST END OF THE PROJECT AREA. IN THE LEFT FAR DISTANCE ARE TWO WATER TOWERS OF THE FORMER ALAMEDA NAVAL AIR STATION. DIRECTLY BENEATH THEM IS THE FRAME OF BUILDING NO. 6. BUILDING NO. 1 IS IN THE CENTER DISTANCE, MOSTLY OBSCURED BY A MODERN METAL BUILDING. BUILDING NO. 18 AND THE WET BASIN ARE AT RIGHT CENTER, IN DISTANCE. - United Engineering Company Shipyard, 2900 Main Street, Alameda, Alameda County, CA

IVTS-CEV (Interactive Video Tape System-Combat Engineer Vehicle) Gunnery Trainer.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-07-01

video game technology developed for and marketed in consumer video games. The IVTS/CEV is a conceptual/breadboard-level classroom interactive training system designed to train Combat Engineer Vehicle (CEV) gunners in target acquisition and engagement with the main gun. The concept demonstration consists of two units: a gunner station and a display module. The gunner station has optics and gun controls replicating those of the CEV gunner station. The display module contains a standard large-screen color video monitor and a video tape player. The gunner’s sight

Integration of the instrument control electronics for the ESPRESSO spectrograph at ESO-VLT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baldini, V.; Calderone, G.; Cirami, R.; Coretti, I.; Cristiani, S.; Di Marcantonio, P.; Mégevand, D.; Riva, M.; Santin, P.

2016-07-01

ESPRESSO, the Echelle SPectrograph for Rocky Exoplanet and Stable Spectroscopic Observations of the ESO - Very Large Telescope site, is now in its integration phase. The large number of functions of this complex instrument are fully controlled by a Beckhoff PLC based control electronics architecture. Four small and one large cabinets host the main electronic parts to control all the sensors, motorized stages and other analogue and digital functions of ESPRESSO. The Instrument Control Electronics (ICE) is built following the latest ESO standards and requirements. Two main PLC CPUs are used and are programmed through the TwinCAT Beckhoff dedicated software. The assembly, integration and verification phase of ESPRESSO, due to its distributed nature and different geographical locations of the consortium partners, is quite challenging. After the preliminary assembling and test of the electronic components at the Astronomical Observatory of Trieste and the test of some electronics and software parts at ESO (Garching), the complete system for the control of the four Front End Unit (FEU) arms of ESPRESSO has been fully assembled and tested in Merate (Italy) at the beginning of 2016. After these first tests, the system will be located at the Geneva Observatory (Switzerland) until the Preliminary Acceptance Europe (PAE) and finally shipped to Chile for the commissioning. This paper describes the integration strategy of the ICE workpackage of ESPRESSO, the hardware and software tests that have been performed, with an overall view of the experience gained during these project's phases.

Prototype AEGIS: A Pixel-Array Readout Circuit for Gamma-Ray Imaging.

PubMed

Barber, H Bradford; Augustine, F L; Furenlid, L; Ingram, C M; Grim, G P

2005-07-31

Semiconductor detector arrays made of CdTe/CdZnTe are expected to be the main components of future high-performance, clinical nuclear medicine imaging systems. Such systems will require small pixel-pitch and much larger numbers of pixels than are available in current semiconductor-detector cameras. We describe the motivation for developing a new readout integrated circuit, AEGIS, for use in hybrid semiconductor detector arrays, that may help spur the development of future cameras. A basic design for AEGIS is presented together with results of an HSPICE ™ simulation of the performance of its unit cell. AEGIS will have a shaper-amplifier unit cell and neighbor pixel readout. Other features include the use of a single input power line with other biases generated on-board, a control register that allows digital control of all thresholds and chip configurations and an output approach that is compatible with list-mode data acquisition. An 8×8 prototype version of AEGIS is currently under development; the full AEGIS will be a 64×64 array with 300 μm pitch.

Substance Use Disorders and Poverty as Prospective Predictors of Adult First-Time Suicide Ideation or Attempt in the United States

PubMed Central

Thompson, Ronald G.; Alonzo, Dana; Hu, Mei-Chen; Hasin, Deborah S.

2016-01-01

This study examined whether substance use disorders and poverty predicted first-time suicide ideation or attempt in United States national data. Respondents without prior histories of suicide ideation or attempt at Wave 1 of the NESARC (N=31,568) were analyzed to determine the main and interactive effects of substance use disorders and poverty on first-time suicide ideation or attempt by Wave 2, three years later. Adjusted for controls, poverty (AOR=1.35, CI=1.05–1.73) and drug use disorders (AOR=2.10, CI=1.07–4.14) independently increased risk for first-time suicide ideation or attempt at Wave 2. SUD and poverty did not interact to differentially increase risk for first-time suicide ideation or attempt, prior to or after adjustment for controls. This study reinforces the importance of substance use disorders and poverty in the risk for first-time suicide ideation or attempt. Public health efforts should target messages to drug users and the impoverished that highlight their increased risk for first-time suicide. PMID:27423659

Substance Use Disorders and Poverty as Prospective Predictors of Adult First-Time Suicide Ideation or Attempt in the United States.

PubMed

Thompson, Ronald G; Alonzo, Dana; Hu, Mei-Chen; Hasin, Deborah S

2017-04-01

This study examined whether substance use disorders (SUD) and poverty predicted first-time suicide ideation or attempt in United States national data. Respondents without prior histories of suicide ideation or attempt at Wave 1 of the NESARC (N = 31,568) were analyzed to determine the main and interactive effects of SUD and poverty on first-time suicide ideation or attempt by Wave 2, 3 years later. Adjusted for controls, poverty (AOR = 1.35, CI = 1.05-1.73) and drug use disorders (AOR = 2.10, CI = 1.07-4.14) independently increased risk for first-time suicide ideation or attempt at Wave 2. SUD and poverty did not interact to differentially increase risk for first-time suicide ideation or attempt, prior to or after adjustment for controls. This study reinforces the importance of SUD and poverty in the risk for first-time suicide ideation or attempt. Public health efforts should target messages to drug users and the impoverished that highlight their increased risk for first-time suicide.

Lower Miocene stratigraphy of the Gebel Shabrawet area, north Eastern desert Egypt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdelghany, Osman

2002-05-01

The Lower Miocene carbonate/siliciclastic sequence of the Shabrawet area, comprises a complex alternation of autochthonous and allogenic sediments. The sequence can be subdivided into two lithostratigraphic units. The lower unit (unit I) is equivalent to the Gharra Formation. It is mainly clastic and composed of sandstones, siltstones and shales with minor limestone intercalations. These sediments are rich in Clypeaster spp., Scutella spp., Miogypsina intermedia, Operculina complanata, and smaller foraminifera. The upper unit (unit II) was considered by previous workers as being equivalent to the Marmarica Formation. It consists mainly of non-clastic rocks, dominated by sandy and chalky limestones rich in larger foraminifera (miogypsinids and nummulitids). This unit is topped by a highly fossiliferous ( Heterostegina, Operculina and Planostegina) sandy limestone. The present study places both units in the Gharra Formation and reports for the first time M. intermedia from the Miocene sequence of the Shabrawet area.

Randomised trial of educational visits to enhance use of systematic reviews in 25 obstetric units

PubMed Central

Wyatt, Jeremy C; Paterson-Brown, Sarah; Johanson, Richard; Altman, Douglas G; Bradburn, Michael J; Fisk, Nicholas M

1998-01-01

Objective To evaluate the effectiveness of an educational visit to help obstetricians and midwives select and use evidence from a Cochrane database containing 600 systematic reviews. Design Randomised single blind controlled trial with obstetric units allocated to an educational visit or control group. Setting 25 of the 26 district general obstetric units in two former NHS regions. Subjects The senior obstetrician and midwife from each intervention unit participated in educational visits. Clinical practices of all staff were assessed in 4508 pregnancies. Intervention Single informal educational visit by a respected obstetrician including discussion of evidence based obstetrics, guidance on implementation, and donation of Cochrane database and other materials. Main outcome measures Rates of perineal suturing with polyglycolic acid, ventouse delivery, prophylactic antibiotics in caesarean section, and steroids in preterm delivery, before and 9 months after visits, and concordance of guidelines with review evidence for same marker practices before and after visits. Results Rates varied greatly, but the overall baseline mean of 43% (986/2312) increased to 54% (1189/2196) 9 months later. Rates of ventouse delivery increased significantly in intervention units but not in control units; there was no difference between the two types of units in uptake of other practices. Pooling rates from all 25 units, use of antibiotics in caesarean section and use of polyglycolic acid sutures increased significantly over the period, but use of steroids in preterm delivery was unchanged. Labour ward guidelines seldom agreed with evidence at baseline; this hardly improved after visits. Educational visits cost £860 each (at 1995 prices). Conclusions There was considerable uptake of evidence into practice in both control and intervention units between 1994 and 1995. Our educational visits added little to this, despite the informal setting, targeting of senior staff from two disciplines, and donation of educational materials. Further work is needed to define cost effective methods to enhance the uptake of evidence from systematic reviews and to clarify leadership and roles of senior obstetric staff in implementing the evidence. Key messagesThere was marked variation in four common obstetric practices known to improve patient outcomes in 25 district general obstetric units across south east England in both 1994 and 1995Labour ward guidelines in the 25 units showed little concordance with Cochrane review evidence in 1994 and 1995The gap between Cochrane review evidence and clinical practice narrowed in 1995, but 46% (1010) of 2196 pregnant women studied were still not managed according to current evidenceEducational visits to senior staff led to a significant but clinically modest uptake of evidence from systematic reviews in only one of the four practices studiedReducing practice variations and improving clinical knowledge management by helping clinicians to locate, select, and implement systematic review evidence remain important challenges for the NHS PMID:9774287

Predictive factors for renal failure and a control and treatment algorithm

PubMed Central

Cerqueira, Denise de Paula; Tavares, José Roberto; Machado, Regimar Carla

2014-01-01

Objectives to evaluate the renal function of patients in an intensive care unit, to identify the predisposing factors for the development of renal failure, and to develop an algorithm to help in the control of the disease. Method exploratory, descriptive, prospective study with a quantitative approach. Results a total of 30 patients (75.0%) were diagnosed with kidney failure and the main factors associated with this disease were: advanced age, systemic arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, lung diseases, and antibiotic use. Of these, 23 patients (76.6%) showed a reduction in creatinine clearance in the first 24 hours of hospitalization. Conclusion a decline in renal function was observed in a significant number of subjects, therefore, an algorithm was developed with the aim of helping in the control of renal failure in a practical and functional way. PMID:26107827

Solar Exposure and Residential Geographic History in Relation to Exfoliation Syndrome in the United States and Israel

PubMed Central

Pasquale, Louis R.; Jiwani, Aliya Z.; Zehavi-Dorin, Tzukit; Majd, Arow; Rhee, Douglas J.; Chen, Teresa; Turalba, Angela; Shen, Lucy; Brauner, Stacey; Grosskreutz, Cynthia; Gardiner, Matthew; Chen, Sherleen; Borboli-Gerogiannis, Sheila; Greenstein, Scott H.; Chang, Kenneth; Ritch, Robert; Loomis, Stephanie; Kang, Jae H.; Wiggs, Janey L.; Levkovitch-Verbin, Hani

2014-01-01

Importance Residential (geographic) history and extent of solar exposure may be important risk factors for exfoliation syndrome, but detailed lifetime solar exposure has not been previously evaluated in exfoliation syndrome. Objective To assess the relation between residential history, solar exposure and exfoliation syndrome. Design Clinic-based, case control studies. Setting A clinical center in the United States and in Israel. Participants Exfoliation syndrome cases and controls (all 60+ years old Caucasians) enrolled from 2010 to 2012 (United States: 118 cases and 106 controls; Israel: 67 cases and 72 controls). Main Outcomes and Measures Weighted lifetime average latitude of residence and average number of hours per week spent outdoors as determined by validated questionnaires. Results In multivariable analyses, each degree of weighted lifetime average residential latitude away from the equator was associated with an 11% increased odds of exfoliation syndrome (pooled odds ratio = 1.11; 95% CI: 1.05-1.17; p < .001). Furthermore, every hour per week spent outdoors during the summer, averaged over a lifetime, was associated with a 4% increased odds of exfoliation syndrome (pooled odds ratio = 1.04; 95% CI: 1.00-1.07; p = .03). For every 1% of average lifetime summer time between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. that sunglasses were worn, the odds of exfoliation syndrome decreased by 2% (odds ratio = 0.98; 95% CI: 0.97-0.99; p < .001) in the United States, but not in Israel (odds ratio = 1.00; 95% CI: 0.99-1.01; p = .92; p for heterogeneity = .005). In the United States, after controlling for important environmental covariates, history of work over water or snow was associated with increased odds of exfoliation syndrome (odds ratio = 3.86; 95% CI: 1.36-10.9); in Israel, there were too few people with such history for analysis. We did not identify an association between brimmed hat wear and exfoliation syndrome (p>.57). Conclusion and Relevance Lifetime outdoor activities may contribute to exfoliation syndrome. The association with work over snow or water and the lack of association with brimmed hat wear suggests that ocular exposure to light from reflective surfaces may be an important type of exposure in exfoliation syndrome etiology. PMID:25188364

KSC-07pd2019

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, the main bus switching unit that is part of the payload on mission STS-120 is being prepared for inspection. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-07pd2016

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, a worker checks the cover on a main bus switching unit, part of the payload on mission STS-120. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-07pd2027

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, with the help of a crane, workers check the placement of a main bus switching unit in Discovery's payload bay. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

[Nitrous oxide production by the German Armed Forces in the 20th century : History of medicine and pharmacy in the Armed Forces].

PubMed

Kronabel, D B J

2010-03-01

The nitrous oxide production unit of the German Armed Forces was a worldwide unique facility which was only employed in the former main medical depot at Euskirchen (nitrous oxide: medical gas which is now obsolete). The last unit was phased out in 2002 and brought to the main medical depot at Blankenburg. Unfortunately the unit is now no longer in the depot and seems to have disappeared. This article describes the nitrous oxide production process and the use of the production unit which was designed by the Socsil company of Switzerland.

Effectiveness of a stepped primary care smoking cessation intervention: cluster randomized clinical trial (ISTAPS study).

PubMed

Cabezas, Carmen; Advani, Mamta; Puente, Diana; Rodriguez-Blanco, Teresa; Martin, Carlos

2011-09-01

To evaluate the effectiveness in primary care of a stepped smoking cessation intervention based on the transtheoretical model of change. Cluster randomized trial; unit of randomization: basic care unit (family physician and nurse who care for the same group of patients); and intention-to-treat analysis. All interested basic care units (n = 176) that worked in 82 primary care centres belonging to the Spanish Preventive Services and Health Promotion Research Network in 13 regions of Spain. A total of 2,827 smokers (aged 14-85 years) who consulted a primary care centre for any reason, provided written informed consent and had valid interviews. The outcome variable was the 1-year continuous abstinence rate at the 2-year follow-up. The main variable was the study group (intervention/control). Intervention involved 6-month implementation of recommendations from a Clinical Practice Guideline which included brief motivational interviews for smokers at the precontemplation-contemplation stage, brief intervention for smokers in preparation-action who do not want help, intensive intervention with pharmacotherapy for smokers in preparation-action who want help and reinforcing intervention in the maintenance stage. Control group involved usual care. Among others, characteristics of tobacco use and motivation to quit variables were also collected. The 1-year continuous abstinence rate at the 2-year follow-up was 8.1% in the intervention group and 5.8% in the control group (P = 0.014). In the multivariate logistic regression, the odds of quitting of the intervention versus control group was 1.50 (95% confidence interval = 1.05-2.14). A stepped smoking cessation intervention based on the transtheoretical model significantly increased smoking abstinence at a 2-year follow-up among smokers visiting primary care centres. © 2011 The Authors, Addiction © 2011 Society for the Study of Addiction.

An afocal telescope configuration for the ESA ARIEL mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Da Deppo, Vania; Focardi, Mauro; Middleton, Kevin; Morgante, Gianluca; Pascale, Enzo; Grella, Samuele; Pace, Emanuele; Claudi, Riccardo; Amiaux, Jérôme; Colomé Ferrer, Josep; Hunt, Thomas; Rataj, Miroslaw; Sierra-Roig, Carles; Ficai Veltroni, Iacopo; Eccleston, Paul; Micela, Giuseppina; Tinetti, Giovanna

2017-12-01

Atmospheric Remote-Sensing Infrared Exoplanet Large Survey (ARIEL) is a candidate as an M4 ESA mission to launch in 2026. During its 3.5 years of scientific operations, ARIEL will observe spectroscopically in the infrared (IR) a large population of known transiting planets in the neighbourhood of the solar system. ARIEL aims to give a breakthrough in the observation of exoplanet atmospheres and understanding of the physics and chemistry of these far-away worlds. ARIEL is based on a 1 m class telescope feeding a collimated beam into two separate instrument modules: a spectrometer module covering the waveband between 1.95 and 7.8 μm and a combined fine guidance system/visible photometer/NIR spectrometer. The telescope configuration is a classic Cassegrain layout used with an eccentric pupil and coupled to a tertiary off-axis paraboloidal mirror. To constrain the thermo-mechanically induced optical aberrations, the primary mirror (M1) temperature will be monitored and finely tuned using an active thermal control system based on thermistors and heaters. They will be switched on and off to maintain the M1 temperature within ± 1 K by the telescope control unit (TCU). The TCU is a payload electronics subsystem also responsible for the thermal control of the spectrometer module detectors as well as the secondary mirror mechanism and IR calibration source management. The TCU, being a slave subsystem of the instrument control unit, will collect the housekeeping data from the monitored subsystems and will forward them to the master unit. The latter will run the application software, devoted to the main spectrometer management and to the scientific data on-board processing.

Wood used in industrial markets in the United States--2000

Treesearch

Chris Gaston

2002-01-01

The main objective of this study was to gather information on the volume of wood products used by industrial manufacturers across the United States (U.S.). Specific objectives included the following: 1. To identify and categorize the main industrial manufacturing industries in the U.S. that are likely to use wood products (using the North American Industrial...

Antimicrobial resistance: the major contribution of poor governance and corruption to this growing problem.

PubMed

Collignon, Peter; Athukorala, Prema-Chandra; Senanayake, Sanjaya; Khan, Fahad

2015-01-01

To determine how important governmental, social, and economic factors are in driving antibiotic resistance compared to the factors usually considered the main driving factors-antibiotic usage and levels of economic development. A retrospective multivariate analysis of the variation of antibiotic resistance in Europe in terms of human antibiotic usage, private health care expenditure, tertiary education, the level of economic advancement (per capita GDP), and quality of governance (corruption). The model was estimated using a panel data set involving 7 common human bloodstream isolates and covering 28 European countries for the period 1998-2010. Only 28% of the total variation in antibiotic resistance among countries is attributable to variation in antibiotic usage. If time effects are included the explanatory power increases to 33%. However when the control of corruption indicator is included as an additional variable, 63% of the total variation in antibiotic resistance is now explained by the regression. The complete multivariate regression only accomplishes an additional 7% in terms of goodness of fit, indicating that corruption is the main socioeconomic factor that explains antibiotic resistance. The income level of a country appeared to have no effect on resistance rates in the multivariate analysis. The estimated impact of corruption was statistically significant (p< 0.01). The coefficient indicates that an improvement of one unit in the corruption indicator is associated with a reduction in antibiotic resistance by approximately 0.7 units. The estimated coefficient of private health expenditure showed that one unit reduction is associated with a 0.2 unit decrease in antibiotic resistance. These findings support the hypothesis that poor governance and corruption contributes to levels of antibiotic resistance and correlate better than antibiotic usage volumes with resistance rates. We conclude that addressing corruption and improving governance will lead to a reduction in antibiotic resistance.

Reorganization increases long-term sickness absence at all levels of hospital staff: panel data analysis of employees of Norwegian public hospitals.

PubMed

Ingelsrud, Mari H

2014-09-19

The Norwegian specialist health service has undergone many processes of reorganization during the last three decades. Changes are mainly initiated to increase the efficiency and quality of health care serving an ageing population under the condition of a diminishing labour supply. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of reorganization on long-term sickness absence among different levels of hospital staff. The study draws on panel data on employees of Norwegian public hospitals in 2005 and 2007 (N = 106,715). National register data on individual employees' days of medically certified long-term (>16 days) sickness absence were linked with survey measures of actual reorganization executed at each hospital in each year. The surveys, answered by hospital administration staff, measured five types of reorganization: merging units, splitting up units, creating new units, shutting down units and reallocation of employees. The variation in sickness absence days was analysed using random and fixed effects Poisson regression with level of reorganization as the main explanatory variable. The fixed effects analysis shows that increasing the degree of organizational change at a hospital from a low to a moderate or high degree leads to an increase in the number of days of long-term sickness absence of respectively 9% (95% CI: 1.03-1.15) and 8% (95% CI: 1.02-1.15). There are few significant differences between employees in different education categories. Only physicians have a significantly higher relative increase in days of long-term sickness absence than the control group with lower tertiary education. Increased long-term sickness absence is a risk following reorganization. This risk affects all levels of hospital staff.

Rarity of the Alzheimer Disease–Protective APP A673T Variant in the United States

PubMed Central

Wang, Li-San; Naj, Adam C.; Graham, Robert R.; Crane, Paul K.; Kunkle, Brian W.; Cruchaga, Carlos; Gonzalez Murcia, Josue D.; Cannon-Albright, Lisa; Baldwin, Clinton T.; Zetterberg, Henrik; Blennow, Kaj; Kukull, Walter A.; Faber, Kelley M.; Schupf, Nicole; Norton, Maria C.; Tschanz, JoAnn T.; Munger, Ronald G.; Corcoran, Christopher D.; Rogaeva, Ekaterina; Lin, Chiao-Feng; Dombroski, Beth A.; Cantwell, Laura B.; Partch, Amanda; Valladares, Otto; Hakonarson, Hakon; St George-Hyslop, Peter; Green, Robert C.; Goate, Alison M.; Foroud, Tatiana M.; Carney, Regina M.; Larson, Eric B.; Behrens, Timothy W.; Kauwe, John S. K.; Haines, Jonathan L.; Farrer, Lindsay A.; Pericak-Vance, Margaret A.; Mayeux, Richard; Schellenberg, Gerard D.

2015-01-01

IMPORTANCE Recently, a rare variant in the amyloid precursor protein gene (APP) was described in a population from Iceland. This variant, in which alanine is replaced by threonine at position 673 (A673T), appears to protect against late-onset Alzheimer disease (AD). We evaluated the frequency of this variant in AD cases and cognitively normal controls to determine whether this variant will significantly contribute to risk assessment in individuals in the United States. OBJECTIVE To determine the frequency of the APP A673T variant in a large group of elderly cognitively normal controls and AD cases from the United States and in 2 case-control cohorts from Sweden. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Case-control association analysis of variant APP A673T in US and Swedish white individuals comparing AD cases with cognitively intact elderly controls. Participants were ascertained at multiple university-associated medical centers and clinics across the United States and Sweden by study-specific sampling methods. They were from case-control studies, community-based prospective cohort studies, and studies that ascertained multiplex families from multiple sources. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES Genotypes for the APP A673T variant were determined using the Infinium HumanExome V1 Beadchip (Illumina, Inc) and by TaqMan genotyping (Life Technologies). RESULTS The A673T variant genotypes were evaluated in 8943 US AD cases, 10 480 US cognitively normal controls, 862 Swedish AD cases, and 707 Swedish cognitively normal controls. We identified 3 US individuals heterozygous for A673T, including 1 AD case (age at onset, 89 years) and 2 controls (age at last examination, 82 and 77 years). The remaining US samples were homozygous for the alanine (A673) allele. In the Swedish samples, 3 controls were heterozygous for A673T and all AD cases were homozygous for the A673 allele. We also genotyped a US family previously reported to harbor the A673T variant and found a mother-daughter pair, both cognitively normal at ages 72 and 84 years, respectively, who were both heterozygous for A673T; however, all individuals with AD in the family were homozygous for A673. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE The A673T variant is extremely rare in US cohorts and does not play a substantial role in risk for AD in this population. This variant may be primarily restricted to Icelandic and Scandinavian populations. PMID:25531812

Charge delocalization characteristics of regioregular high mobility polymers

DOE PAGES

Coughlin, J. E.; Zhugayevych, A.; Wang, M.; ...

2017-01-01

Controlling the regioregularity among the structural units of narrow bandgap conjugated polymer backbones has led to improvements in optoelectronic properties, for example in the mobilities observed in field effect transistor devices. To investigate how the regioregularity affects quantities relevant to hole transport, regioregular and regiorandom oligomers representative of polymeric structures were studied using density functional theory. Several structural and electronic characteristics of the oligomers were compared, including chain planarity, cation spin density, excess charges on molecular units and internal reorganizational energy. The main difference between the regioregular and regiorandom oligomers is found to be the conjugated backbone planarity, while themore » reorganizational energies calculated are quite similar across the molecular family. Lastly, this work constitutes the first step on understanding the complex interplay of atomistic changes and an oligomer backbone structure toward modeling the charge transport properties.« less

Beliefs about power and its relation to emotional experience: a comparison of Japan, France, Germany, and the United States.

PubMed

Mondillon, Laurie; Niedenthal, Paula M; Brauer, Markus; Rohmann, Anette; Dalle, Nathalie; Uchida, Yukiko

2005-08-01

This research examined the concept of power in Japan, France, Germany, and the United States, as well as beliefs about the emotions persons in power tend to elicit in others and about powerful people's regulation (specifically, inhibition) of certain emotions. Definitions of power were assessed by examining the importance of two main components: control over self versus other and freedom of action vis-à-vis social norms. Beliefs about both positive (pride, admiration) and negative (jealousy, contempt) emotions were measured. Analyses revealed that the concept of power differed across countries and that the definitions of power as well as country of origin significantly predicted beliefs about the emotions that are elicited in others by powerful people and also the regulation of expression of emotion by powerful people.

Stress and counterproductive work behavior: multiple relationships between demands, control, and soldier indiscipline over time.

PubMed

Tucker, Jennifer S; Sinclair, Robert R; Mohr, Cynthia D; Thomas, Jeffrey L; Salvi, Angela D; Adler, Amy B

2009-07-01

Cognitive Resource Theory (CRT) suggests that under high levels of stress, employees are more prone to committing indiscipline. As few studies have examined this relationship over time, the authors conducted a six-wave longitudinal study examining the relationship of soldiers' indiscipline with work demands and control. The study included archival data collected quarterly over 2 years from 1,701 soldiers representing 10 units in garrison (Germany and Italy), in training rotations (Grafenwoehr, Germany), and on peacekeeping deployments (Kosovo, Kuwait). No main effects were found for work overload, and the findings for the moderating effects of control were contradictory. Within each time point, as work overload increased, soldiers who felt less control committed more indiscipline, supporting CRT. Over time, however, as work overload increased, soldiers who perceived less control 6 months earlier committed less indiscipline. Additionally, the authors found reverse causal effects for control such that prior perceptions of a lack of control were associated with indiscipline and prior incidents of indiscipline with less control. (c) 2009 APA, all rights reserved.

Epidemiologically relevant antimicrobial resistance phenotypes in pathogens isolated from critically ill patients in a Brazilian Universitary Hospital

PubMed Central

de Carvalho, Rodolfo Henriques; Gontijo Filho, Paulo P.

2008-01-01

Antimicrobial resistance is a threat to public health worldwide and is associated with higher mortality and morbidity. Despite the extensive knowledge about this problem, drug resistance has continued to emerge, especially in intensive care units (ICUs). The objective of this study was to evaluate the frequencies of epidemiologically relevant resistance phenotypes in pathogens isolated from ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), bloodstream infections (BSI) and urinary tract infections (UTI) in patients admitted in the adult intensive care unit (AICU) of the Clinical Hospital of Federal University of Uberlândia, during an one year period. Additionally, at the period of the study, the antibiotic consumption in AICU was verified. Coagulase-negative staphylococci and S. aureus were the main agents of BSI (43.9%), with 60.0% of oxacilin-resistance for both microorganisms, Klebsiella-Enterobacter group predominated in UTI (23.4%), with resistance to third generation cephalosporins in 58.0% of the isolates; and, Pseudomonas aeruginosa in VAP (42.0%), with 72.0% of resistance to imipenem. Cephalosporins (49.6%), vancomycin (37.4%) and carbapenems (26.6%) were the most prescribed antibiotics in the unit. The comparison of the results with a publication of the NNIS program evidenced a worse situation in the studied hospital, mainly between Gram-negative, that had surpassed the percentile 90% elaborated by that system. Based on these results a reconsideration on the empirical use of antibiotics and on prevention and control of nosocomial infections practices is recommended. PMID:24031278

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AMONG INTENSIVE CARE NURSES: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY.

PubMed

Heydari, Abbas; Najar, Ali Vafaee; Bakhshi, Mahmoud

2015-12-01

Nurses are the main users of supplies and equipment applied in the Intensive Care Units (ICUs) which are high-priced and costly. Therefore, understanding ICU nurses' experiences about resource management contributes to the better control of the costs. This study aimed to investigate the culture of nurses' working environment regarding the resource management in the ICUs in Iran. In this study, a focused ethnographic method was used. Twenty-eight informants among ICU nurses and other professional individuals were purposively selected and interviewed. As well, 400 hours of ethnographic observations as a participant observer was used for data gathering. Data analysis was performed using the methods described by Miles and Huberman (1994). Two main themes describing the culture of ICU nurses regarding resource management included (a) consumption monitoring and auditing, and (b) prudent use. The results revealed that the efforts for resource management are conducted in the conditions of scarcity and uncertainty in supply. ICU nurses had a sense of futurism in the supply and use of resources in the unit and do the planning through taking the rules and guidelines as well as the available resources and their values into account. Improper storage of some supplies and equipment was a reaction to this uncertain condition among nurses. To manage the resources effectively, improvement of supply chain management in hospital seems essential. It is also necessary to hold educational classes in order to enhance the nurses' awareness on effective supply chain and storage of the items in the unit stock.

Tandem Organic Light-Emitting Diodes.

PubMed

Fung, Man-Keung; Li, Yan-Qing; Liao, Liang-Sheng

2016-12-01

A tandem organic light-emitting diode (OLED) is an organic optoelectronic device that has two or more electroluminescence (EL) units connected electrically in series with unique intermediate connectors within the device. Researchers have studied this new OLED architecture with growing interest and have found that the current efficiency of a tandem OLED containing N EL units (N > 1) should be N times that of a conventional OLED containing only a single EL unit. Therefore, this new architecture is potentially useful for constructing high-efficiency, high-luminance, and long-lifetime OLED displays and organic solid-state lighting sources. In a tandem OLED, the intermediate connector plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of the stacked EL units. The interfaces in the connector control the inner charge generation and charge injection into the adjacent EL units. Meanwhile, the transparency and the thickness of the connector affect the light output of the device. Therefore, the intermediate connector should be made to meet both the electrical and optical requirements for achieving optimal performance. Here, recent advances in the research of the tandem OLEDs is discussed, with the main focus on material selection and interface studies in the intermediate connectors, as well as the optical design of the tandem OLEDs. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Current and future emissions of primary pollutants from coal-fired power plants in Shaanxi, China.

PubMed

Xu, Yong; Hu, Jianlin; Ying, Qi; Hao, Hongke; Wang, Dexiang; Zhang, Hongliang

2017-10-01

A high-resolution inventory of primary atmospheric pollutants from coal-fired power plants in Shaanxi in 2012 was built based on a detailed database compiled at unit level involving unit capacity, boiler size and type, commission time, corresponding control technologies, and average coal quality of 72 power plants. The pollutants included SO 2 , NO x , fine particulate matter (PM 2.5 ), inhalable particulate matter (PM 10 ), organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), carbon monoxide (CO) and non-methane volatile organic compounds (NMVOC). Emission factors for SO 2 , NO x , PM 2.5 and PM 10 were adopted from standardized official promulgation, supplemented by those from local studies. The estimated annual emissions of SO 2 , NO x , PM 2.5 , PM 10 , EC, OC, CO and NMVOC were 152.4, 314.8, 16.6, 26.4, 0.07, 0.27, 64.9 and 2.5kt, respectively. Small units (<100MW), which accounted for ~60% of total unit numbers, had less coal consumption but higher emission rates compared to medium (≥100MW and <300MW) and large units (≥300MW). Main factors affecting SO 2 , NO x , PM 2.5 and PM 10 emissions were decontamination efficiency, sulfur content and ash content of coal. Weinan and Xianyang were the two cities with the highest emissions, and Guanzhong Plain had the largest emission density. Despite the projected growth of coal consumption, emissions would decrease in 2030 due to improvement in emission control technologies and combustion efficiencies. SO 2 and NO x emissions would experience significant reduction by ~81% and ~84%, respectively. PM 2.5 , PM 10 , EC and OC would be decreased by ~43% and CO and NMVOC would be reduced by ~16%. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Recruitment order of motor units in human vastus lateralis muscle is maintained during fatiguing contractions.

PubMed

Adam, Alexander; De Luca, Carlo J

2003-11-01

Motor-unit firing patterns were studied in the vastus lateralis muscle of five healthy young men [21.4 +/- 0.9 (SD) yr] during a series of isometric knee extensions performed to exhaustion. Each contraction was held at a constant torque level, set to 20% of the maximal voluntary contraction at the beginning of the experiment. Electromyographic signals, recorded via a quadrifilar fine wire electrode, were processed with the precision decomposition technique to identify the firing times of individual motor units. In repeat experiments, whole-muscle mechanical properties were measured during the fatigue protocol using electrical stimulation. The main findings were a monotonic decrease in the recruitment threshold of all motor units and the progressive recruitment of new units, all without a change of the recruitment order. Motor units from the same subject showed a similar time course of threshold decline, but this decline varied among subjects (mean threshold decrease ranged from 23 to 73%). The mean threshold decline was linearly correlated (R2 >or= 0.96) with a decline in the elicited peak tetanic torque. In summary, the maintenance of recruitment order during fatigue strongly supports the notion that the observed common recruitment adaptations were a direct consequence of an increased excitatory drive to the motor unit pool. It is suggested that the increased central drive was necessary to compensate for the loss in force output from motor units whose muscle fibers were actively contracting. We therefore conclude that the control scheme of motor-unit recruitment remains invariant during fatigue at least in relatively large muscles performing submaximal isometric contractions.

Effects of exogenous phytase and xylanase, individually or in combination, and pelleting on nutrient digestibility, available energy content of wheat and performance of growing pigs fed wheat-based diets

PubMed Central

Yang, Y. Y.; Fan, Y. F.; Cao, Y. H.; Guo, P. P.; Dong, B.; Ma, Y. X.

2017-01-01

Objective Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of adding exogenous phytase and xylanase, individually or in combination, as well as pelleting on nutrient digestibility, available energy content of wheat and the performance of growing pigs fed wheat-based diets. Methods In Experiment 1, forty-eight barrows with an initial body weight of 35.9±0.6 kg were randomly assigned to a 2×4 factorial experiment with the main effects being feed form (pellet vs meal) and enzyme supplementation (none, 10,000 U/kg phytase, 4,000 U/kg xylanase or 10,000 U/kg phytase plus 4,000 U/kg xylanase). The basal diet contained 97.8% wheat. Pigs were placed in metabolic cages for a 7-d adaptation period followed by a 5-d total collection of feces and urine. Nutrient digestibility and available energy content were determined. Experiment 2 was conducted to evaluate the effects of pelleting and enzymes on performance of wheat for growing pigs. In this experiment, 180 growing pigs (35.2±9.0 kg BW) were allocated to 1 of 6 treatments according to a 2×3 factorial treatment arrangement with the main effects being feed form (meal vs pellet) and enzyme supplementation (0, 2,500 or 5,000 U/kg xylanase). Results In Experiment 1, there were no interactions between feed form and enzyme supplementation. Pelleting reduced the digestibility of acid detergent fiber (ADF) by 6.4 percentage units (p<0.01), increased the digestibility of energy by 0.6 percentage units (p<0.05), and tended to improve the digestibility of crude protein by 0.5 percentage units (p = 0.07) compared with diets in mash form. The addition of phytase improved the digestibility of phosphorus (p<0.01) and calcium (p<0.01) by 6.9 and 7.6 percentage units respectively compared with control group. Adding xylanase tended to increase the digestibility of crude protein by 1.0 percentage units (p = 0.09) and increased the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (p<0.01) compared with control group. Supplementation of the xylanase-phytase combination improved the digestibility of phosphorus (p<0.01) but impaired NDF digestibility (p<0.05) compared with adding xylanase alone. In Experiment 2, adding xylanase increased average daily gain (p<0.01) and linearly improved the feed:gain ratio (p<0.01) compared with control group. Conclusion Pelleting improved energy digestibility but decreased ADF digestibility. Adding xylanase increased crude protein digestibility and pig performance. Phytase increased the apparent total tract digestibility of phosphorus and calcium. The combination of phytase-xylanase supplementation impaired the effects of xylanase on NDF digestibility. PMID:27004820

Effects of exogenous phytase and xylanase, individually or in combination, and pelleting on nutrient digestibility, available energy content of wheat and performance of growing pigs fed wheat-based diets.

PubMed

Yang, Y Y; Fan, Y F; Cao, Y H; Guo, P P; Dong, B; Ma, Y X

2017-01-01

Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of adding exogenous phytase and xylanase, individually or in combination, as well as pelleting on nutrient digestibility, available energy content of wheat and the performance of growing pigs fed wheat-based diets. In Experiment 1, forty-eight barrows with an initial body weight of 35.9±0.6 kg were randomly assigned to a 2×4 factorial experiment with the main effects being feed form (pellet vs meal) and enzyme supplementation (none, 10,000 U/kg phytase, 4,000 U/kg xylanase or 10,000 U/kg phytase plus 4,000 U/kg xylanase). The basal diet contained 97.8% wheat. Pigs were placed in metabolic cages for a 7-d adaptation period followed by a 5-d total collection of feces and urine. Nutrient digestibility and available energy content were determined. Experiment 2 was conducted to evaluate the effects of pelleting and enzymes on performance of wheat for growing pigs. In this experiment, 180 growing pigs (35.2±9.0 kg BW) were allocated to 1 of 6 treatments according to a 2×3 factorial treatment arrangement with the main effects being feed form (meal vs pellet) and enzyme supplementation (0, 2,500 or 5,000 U/kg xylanase). In Experiment 1, there were no interactions between feed form and enzyme supplementation. Pelleting reduced the digestibility of acid detergent fiber (ADF) by 6.4 percentage units (p<0.01), increased the digestibility of energy by 0.6 percentage units (p<0.05), and tended to improve the digestibility of crude protein by 0.5 percentage units (p = 0.07) compared with diets in mash form. The addition of phytase improved the digestibility of phosphorus (p<0.01) and calcium (p<0.01) by 6.9 and 7.6 percentage units respectively compared with control group. Adding xylanase tended to increase the digestibility of crude protein by 1.0 percentage units (p = 0.09) and increased the digestibility of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) (p<0.01) compared with control group. Supplementation of the xylanase-phytase combination improved the digestibility of phosphorus (p<0.01) but impaired NDF digestibility (p<0.05) compared with adding xylanase alone. In Experiment 2, adding xylanase increased average daily gain (p<0.01) and linearly improved the feed:gain ratio (p<0.01) compared with control group. Pelleting improved energy digestibility but decreased ADF digestibility. Adding xylanase increased crude protein digestibility and pig performance. Phytase increased the apparent total tract digestibility of phosphorus and calcium. The combination of phytase-xylanase supplementation impaired the effects of xylanase on NDF digestibility.

Air pollution control systems in WtE units: An overview

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

Vehlow, J., E-mail: juergen.vehlow@partner.kit.edu

Highlights: • The paper describes in brief terms the development of gas cleaning in waste incineration. • The main technologies for pollutant removal are described including their basic mechanisms. • Their respective efficiencies and their application are discussed. • A cautious outlook regarding future developments is made. - Abstract: All WtE (waste-to-energy) plants, based on combustion or other thermal processes, need an efficient gas cleaning for compliance with legislative air emission standards. The development of gas cleaning technologies started along with environment protection regulations in the late 1960s. Modern APC (air pollution control) systems comprise multiple stages for the removalmore » of fly ashes, inorganic and organic gases, heavy metals, and dioxins from the flue gas. The main technologies and devices used for abatement of the various pollutants are described and their basic principles, their peculiarities, and their application are discussed. Few systems for cleaning of synthesis gas from waste gasification plants are included. Examples of APC designs in full scale plants are shown and cautious prospects for the future development of APC systems are made.« less

Development and Flight Testing of an Adaptable Vehicle Health-Monitoring Architecture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodard, Stanley E.; Coffey, Neil C.; Gonzalez, Guillermo A.; Woodman, Keith L.; Weathered, Brenton W.; Rollins, Courtney H.; Taylor, B. Douglas; Brett, Rube R.

2003-01-01

Development and testing of an adaptable wireless health-monitoring architecture for a vehicle fleet is presented. It has three operational levels: one or more remote data acquisition units located throughout the vehicle; a command and control unit located within the vehicle; and a terminal collection unit to collect analysis results from all vehicles. Each level is capable of performing autonomous analysis with a trained adaptable expert system. The remote data acquisition unit has an eight channel programmable digital interface that allows the user discretion for choosing type of sensors; number of sensors, sensor sampling rate, and sampling duration for each sensor. The architecture provides framework for a tributary analysis. All measurements at the lowest operational level are reduced to provide analysis results necessary to gauge changes from established baselines. These are then collected at the next level to identify any global trends or common features from the prior level. This process is repeated until the results are reduced at the highest operational level. In the framework, only analysis results are forwarded to the next level to reduce telemetry congestion. The system's remote data acquisition hardware and non-analysis software have been flight tested on the NASA Langley B757's main landing gear.

Crystallization Methods for Preparation of Nanocrystals for Drug Delivery System.

PubMed

Gao, Yuan; Wang, Jingkang; Wang, Yongli; Yin, Qiuxiang; Glennon, Brian; Zhong, Jian; Ouyang, Jinbo; Huang, Xin; Hao, Hongxun

2015-01-01

Low water solubility of drug products causes delivery problems such as low bioavailability. The reduced particle size and increased surface area of nanocrystals lead to the increasing of the dissolution rate. The formulation of drug nanocrystals is a robust approach and has been widely applied to drug delivery system (DDS) due to the significant development of nanoscience and nanotechnology. It can be used to improve drug efficacy, provide targeted delivery and minimize side-effects. Crystallization is the main and efficient unit operation to produce nanocrystals. Both traditional crystallization methods such as reactive crystallization, anti-solvent crystallization and new crystallization methods such as supercritical fluid crystallization, high-gravity controlled precipitation can be used to produce nanocrystals. The current mini-review outlines the main crystallization methods addressed in literature. The advantages and disadvantages of each method were summarized and compared.

High Speed Link Radiated Emission Reduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bisognin, P.; Pelissou, P.; Cissou, R.; Giniaux, M.; Vargas, O.

2016-05-01

To control the radiated emission of high-speed link and associated unit, the current approach is to implement overall harness shielding on cables bundles. This method is very efficient in the HF/ VHF (high frequency/ very high frequency) and UHF (ultra-high frequency) ranges when the overall harness shielding is properly bonded on EMC back-shell. Unfortunately, with the increasing frequency, the associated half wavelength matches with the size of Sub-D connector that is the case for the L band. Therefore, the unit connectors become the main source of interference emission. For the L-band and S-band, the current technology of EMC back-shell leaves thin aperture matched with the L band half wavelength and therefore, the shielding effectiveness is drastically reduced. In addition, overall harness shielding means significant increases of the harness mass.Airbus D&S Toulouse and Elancourt investigated a new solution to avoid the need of overall harness shielding. The objective is to procure EM (Electro-Magnetic) clean unit connected to cables bundles free of any overall harness shielding. The proposed solution is to implement EMC common mode filtering on signal interfaces directly on unit PCB as close as possible the unit connector.Airbus D&S Elancourt designed and manufactured eight mock-ups of LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling) interface PCBs' with different solutions of filtering. After verification of the signal integrity, three mock-ups were retained (RC filter and two common mode choke coil) in addition to the reference one (without EMC filter).Airbus D&S Toulouse manufactured associated LVDS cable bundles and integrated the RX (Receiver) and TX (Transmitter) LVDS boards in shielded boxes.Then Airbus D&S performed radiated emission measurement of the LVDS links subassemblies (e.g. RX and TX boxes linked by LVDS cables) according to the standard test method. This paper presents the different tested solutions and main conclusions on the feasibility of such approach.

Geothermal energy development in the Eastern United States. Technical assistance report no. 6, geothermal space heating and conditioning: McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hill, F. K.; Vonbriesen, R.

1980-12-01

The feasibility of space heating and cooling 200 multifamily on-base housing units using nonreversible heat pumps and ground water from 1000 ft. depth was studied. The 200 housing units are a part of the 1452 main base multifamily housing complex which is heated from a high temperature and pressure water line. The main system will be converted from natural gas to coal in 1984. Relative cost, amortization periods, and fossil fuel projections are compared.

EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS. United Engineering Company Ltd., Alameda Shipyard, Ship Repair ...

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

EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS. United Engineering Company Ltd., Alameda Shipyard, Ship Repair Facilities, Office Building. Includes lettering detail for front elevation. John Hudspeth, Architect, at foot of Main Street, Alameda, Calif. Sheet no. A3 of 8 sheets, Plan no. 10,007. Scale 1/8 inch to the foot. March 18, 1942, last revised 9/21/43. U.S. Navy, Bureau of Yards & Docks, Contract no. bs 76. Approved for construction October 9, 1943. blueprint - United Engineering Company Shipyard, Office Building No. 137, 2900 Main Street, Alameda, Alameda County, CA

SECOND FLOOR AND ROOF PLANS. United Engineering Company Ltd., Alameda ...

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

SECOND FLOOR AND ROOF PLANS. United Engineering Company Ltd., Alameda Shipyard, Ship Repair Facilities, Office Building. Second floor plan, and roof plan. John Hudspeth, Architect, at foot of Main Street, Alameda, Calif. Sheet no. A2 of 8 sheets, Plan no. 10,007. Scale 1/8 inch to the foot. March 18, 1942, last revised 9/22/43. U.S. Navy, Bureau of Yards & Docks, Contract no. bs 76. Approved for construction October 9, 1943. blueprint - United Engineering Company Shipyard, Office Building No. 137, 2900 Main Street, Alameda, Alameda County, CA

NATO’s Relevance to United States Enduring National Interests Time to Remove the Training Wheels but Continue to Hold the Handle Bars

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-06-10

ability to protect its vital national interests and project influence globally. A strong role in NATO provides the United States a conduit and connective...structure to some of the world’s most stable governments, serves as the main policy mechanism by which it can influence Europe, and provides a venue...governments, serves as the main policy mechanism by which it can influence Europe, and provides a venue for legitimacy and freedom of global action. The United

Continental-scale variation in controls of summer CO2 in United States lakes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lapierre, Jean-Francois; Seekell, David A.; Filstrup, Christopher T.; Collins, Sarah M.; Emi Fergus, C.; Soranno, Patricia A.; Cheruvelil, Kendra S.

2017-04-01

Understanding the broad-scale response of lake CO2 dynamics to global change is challenging because the relative importance of different controls of surface water CO2 is not known across broad geographic extents. Using geostatistical analyses of 1080 lakes in the conterminous United States, we found that lake partial pressure of CO2 (pCO2) was controlled by different chemical and biological factors related to inputs and losses of CO2 along climate, topography, geomorphology, and land use gradients. Despite weak spatial patterns in pCO2 across the study extent, there were strong regional patterns in the pCO2 driver-response relationships, i.e., in pCO2 "regulation." Because relationships between lake CO2 and its predictors varied spatially, global models performed poorly in explaining the variability in CO2 for U.S. lakes. The geographically varying driver-response relationships of lake pCO2 reflected major landscape gradients across the study extent and pointed to the importance of regional-scale variation in pCO2 regulation. These results indicate a higher level of organization for these physically disconnected systems than previously thought and suggest that changes in climate and land use could induce shifts in the main pathways that determine the role of lakes as sources and sinks of atmospheric CO2.

A low noise remotely controllable wireless telemetry system for single-unit recording in rats navigating in a vertical maze.

PubMed

Chen, Hsin-Yung; Wu, Jin-Shang; Hyland, Brian; Lu, Xiao-Dong; Chen, Jia Jin Jason

2008-08-01

The use of cables for recording neural activity limits the scope of behavioral tests used in conscious free-moving animals. Particularly, cable attachments make it impossible to record in three-dimensional (3D) mazes where levels are vertically stacked or in enclosed spaces. Such environments are of particular interest in investigations of hippocampal place cells, in which neural activity is correlated with spatial position in the environment. We developed a flexible miniaturized Bluetooth-based wireless data acquisition system. The wireless module included an 8-channel analogue front end, digital controller, and Bluetooth transceiver mounted on a backpack. Our bidirectional wireless design allowed all data channels to be previewed at 1 kHz sample rate, and one channel, selected by remote control, to be sampled at 10 kHz. Extracellular recordings of neuronal activity are highly susceptible to ambient electrical noise due to the high electrode impedance. Through careful design of appropriate shielding and hardware configuration to avoid ground loops, mains power and Bluetooth hopping frequency noise were reduced sufficiently to yield signal quality comparable to those recorded by wired systems. With this system we were able to obtain single-unit recordings of hippocampal place cells in rats running an enclosed vertical maze, over a range of 5 m.

The cooperative forestry research unit Commercial Thinning Research Network--9-year results

Treesearch

Robert S. Seymour; Spencer R. Meyer; Robert G. Wagner

2014-01-01

The Commercial Thinning Research Network (CTRN) was established throughout the spruce-fir forest of Maine beginning in 2000 with substantial funding from the University of Maine's Cooperative Forestry Research Unit. One of six replicates of the precommercially thinned stand condition in the CTRN is located in compartment 23A in the U.S. Department of Agriculture,...

Research Assessment Exercise Results and Research Funding in the United Kingdom: A Comparative Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chatterji, Monojit; Seaman, Paul

2006-01-01

A considerable sum of money is allocated to UK universities on the basis of Research Assessment Exercise performance. In this paper we analyse the two main funding models used in the United Kingdom and discuss their strengths and weaknesses. We suggest that the benchmarking used by the two main models have significant weaknesses, and propose an…

Place-Based Education and Geographic Information Systems: Enhancing the Spatial Awareness of Middle School Students in Maine

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perkins, Nancy; Hazelton, Eric; Erickson, Jeryl; Allan, Walter

2010-01-01

Spatial literacy is a new frontier in K-12 education. This article describes a place-based introductory GIS/GPS middle school curriculum unit in which students used measuring tools, GPS units, and My World GIS software to collect physical and spatial data of trees to create a schoolyard tree inventory. Maine students completed "memory…

KSC-07pd2021

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, STS-120 crew members inspect the main bus switching unit that is part of the payload on their mission. From left are Mission Specialists Paolo Nespoli, Doug Wheelock and Scott Parazynski. Wheelock is practicing using a tool on the unit. Nespoli represents the European Space Agency. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-07pd2020

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, STS-120 crew members inspect the main bus switching unit that is part of the payload on their mission. From left are Mission Specialists Paolo Nespoli, Doug Wheelock and Scott Parazynski. Wheelock is practicing using a tool on the unit. Nespoli represents the European Space Agency. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

An integrated microfluidic analysis microsystems with bacterial capture enrichment and in-situ impedance detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Hai-Tao; Wen, Zhi-Yu; Xu, Yi; Shang, Zheng-Guo; Peng, Jin-Lan; Tian, Peng

2017-09-01

In this paper, an integrated microfluidic analysis microsystems with bacterial capture enrichment and in-situ impedance detection was purposed based on microfluidic chips dielectrophoresis technique and electrochemical impedance detection principle. The microsystems include microfluidic chip, main control module, and drive and control module, and signal detection and processing modulet and result display unit. The main control module produce the work sequence of impedance detection system parts and achieve data communication functions, the drive and control circuit generate AC signal which amplitude and frequency adjustable, and it was applied on the foodborne pathogens impedance analysis microsystems to realize the capture enrichment and impedance detection. The signal detection and processing circuit translate the current signal into impendence of bacteria, and transfer to computer, the last detection result is displayed on the computer. The experiment sample was prepared by adding Escherichia coli standard sample into chicken sample solution, and the samples were tested on the dielectrophoresis chip capture enrichment and in-situ impedance detection microsystems with micro-array electrode microfluidic chips. The experiments show that the Escherichia coli detection limit of microsystems is 5 × 104 CFU/mL and the detection time is within 6 min in the optimization of voltage detection 10 V and detection frequency 500 KHz operating conditions. The integrated microfluidic analysis microsystems laid the solid foundation for rapid real-time in-situ detection of bacteria.

Analysis of dynamic parameters of mine fans

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Russky, E. Yu

2018-03-01

The design of the rotor of an axial fan and its main units, namely double leaf blades impeller and the main shaft are discussed. The parameters of a disturbed mine air flow under sudden outbursts are determined and the influence of disturbances on frequencies of axial fan units is assessed. The scope of the assessment embraces the disturbance effect on the blades and on the torsional vibrations of the main shafts. The dependences of the stresses in the elements of the rotor versus the disturbed air flow parameters are derived.

Improvement of automatic control systems of high-power turbines of PAO tubroatom for nuclear power plants

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shvetsov, V. L.; Babaev, I. N.

2017-09-01

The main technical solutions applied by PAO Turboatom used as the compensatory measures at the increase of the period of nonstop operation of nuclear power plants' (NPP) turbines with VVER-1000 type reactors up to 18 months are (1) replacing the standard hydraulic speed controller with an electronic one, (2) introduction of overclocking protection, (3) modernization of units of stop-control valves of high pressures, (4) installation of locking dampers on the receiver tubes of turbines of the first and second modification, and (5) improving the quality of repairs by reviewing the requirements for their implementation. The introduction of complex diagnostics of a control system on the basis of automatic treatment of results of registration of working parameters of the turbine is allocated as a separate prospective direction. Using an electronic controller of speed makes it possible to simplify the procedure of its inclusion in work at the failure of an electro-hydraulic system of control and vice versa. The regimes of maintaining the turbine rotor speed, steam pressure on the outlet of turbine, and the positions of main servomotors were introduced into the functions of the electronic controller. An electronic controller of speed includes its own electro-hydraulic transducer, turbine rotor speed sensor, and sensors of the position of main servomotors. Into the functions of electro- hydraulic control system and electronic speed controller, the function of overclocking protection, which determines the formation of commands for stopping the turbine at the exceeding of both the defined level of rotation speed and the defined combination of achieved rotation speed and angular acceleration of rotor, was introduced. To simplify the correction of forces acting on the control valve cups, the design of the cups was changed, and it has the profiled inserts. The solutions proposed were implemented on K-1100-60/1500-2M turbines of Rostov NPP. From the composition of control system of already made turbines, the devices of speed switching of moving of control flaps for opening and hydraulic damper in the servomotors of regulating flaps were excluded; the fists of the control valves providing the increased valve stroke for opening and the construction of filters for regulation, electro-hydraulic converters, oil draining device, etc. was changed.

KSC-07pd2022

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, STS-120Mission Specialist Paolo Nespoli practices using a tool on the main bus switching unit that is part of the payload on the mission. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

Photovoltaic stand-alone modular systems, phase 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Naff, G. J.; Marshall, N. A.

1983-01-01

The final hardware and system qualification phase of a two part stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) system development is covered. The final design incorporated modular, power blocks capable of expanding incrementally from 320 watts to twenty kilowatts (PK). The basic power unit (PU) was nominally rated 1.28 kWp. The controls units, power collection buses and main lugs, electrical protection subsystems, power switching, and load management circuits are housed in a common control enclosure. Photo-voltaic modules are electrically connected in a horizontal daisy-chain method via Amp Solarlok plugs mating with compatible connectors installed on the back side of each photovoltaic module. A pair of channel rails accommodate the mounting of the modules into a frameless panel support structure. Foundations are of a unique planter (tub-like) configuration to allow for world-wide deployment without restriction as to types of soil. One battery string capable of supplying approximately 240 ampere hours nominal of carryover power is specified for each basic power unit. Load prioritization and shedding circuits are included to protect critical loads and selectively shed and defer lower priority or noncritical power demands. The baseline system, operating at approximately 2 1/2 PUs (3.2 kW pk.) was installed and deployed. Qualification was successfully complete in March 1983; since that time, the demonstration system has logged approximately 3000 hours of continuous operation under load without major incident.

Photovoltaic stand-alone modular systems, phase 2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naff, G. J.; Marshall, N. A.

1983-07-01

The final hardware and system qualification phase of a two part stand-alone photovoltaic (PV) system development is covered. The final design incorporated modular, power blocks capable of expanding incrementally from 320 watts to twenty kilowatts (PK). The basic power unit (PU) was nominally rated 1.28 kWp. The controls units, power collection buses and main lugs, electrical protection subsystems, power switching, and load management circuits are housed in a common control enclosure. Photo-voltaic modules are electrically connected in a horizontal daisy-chain method via Amp Solarlok plugs mating with compatible connectors installed on the back side of each photovoltaic module. A pair of channel rails accommodate the mounting of the modules into a frameless panel support structure. Foundations are of a unique planter (tub-like) configuration to allow for world-wide deployment without restriction as to types of soil. One battery string capable of supplying approximately 240 ampere hours nominal of carryover power is specified for each basic power unit. Load prioritization and shedding circuits are included to protect critical loads and selectively shed and defer lower priority or noncritical power demands. The baseline system, operating at approximately 2 1/2 PUs (3.2 kW pk.) was installed and deployed. Qualification was successfully complete in March 1983; since that time, the demonstration system has logged approximately 3000 hours of continuous operation under load without major incident.

Modifying Alcohol Consumption to Reduce Obesity (MACRO): development and feasibility trial of a complex community-based intervention for men.

PubMed

Crombie, Iain K; Cunningham, Kathryn B; Irvine, Linda; Williams, Brian; Sniehotta, Falko F; Norrie, John; Melson, Ambrose; Jones, Claire; Briggs, Andrew; Rice, Peter M; Achison, Marcus; McKenzie, Andrew; Dimova, Elena; Slane, Peter W

2017-04-01

Obese men who consume alcohol are at a greatly increased risk of liver disease; those who drink > 14 units of alcohol per week have a 19-fold increased risk of dying from liver disease. To develop an intervention to reduce alcohol consumption in obese men and to assess the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to investigate its effectiveness. The intervention was developed using formative research, public involvement and behaviour change theory. It was organised in two phases, comprising a face-to-face session with trained laypeople (study co-ordinators) followed by a series of text messages. Participants explored how alcohol consumption contributed to weight gain, both through direct calorie consumption and through its effect on increasing food consumption, particularly of high-calorie foodstuffs. Men were encouraged to set goals to reduce their alcohol consumption and to make specific plans to do so. The comparator group received an active control in the form of a conventional alcohol brief intervention. Randomisation was carried out using the secure remote web-based system provided by the Tayside Clinical Trials Unit. Randomisation was stratified by the recruitment method and restricted using block sizes of randomly varying lengths. Members of the public were involved in the development of all study methods. Men were recruited from the community, from primary care registers and by time-space sampling (TSS). The intervention was delivered in community settings such as the participant's home, community centres and libraries. Men aged 35-64 years who had a body mass index (BMI) of > 30 kg/m 2 and who drank > 21 units of alcohol per week. The screening methods successfully identified participants meeting the entry criteria. Trial recruitment was successful, with 69 men (36 from 419 approached in primary care, and 33 from 470 approached via TSS) recruited and randomised in 3 months. Of the 69 men randomised, 35 were allocated to the intervention group and 34 to the control group. The analysis was conducted on 31 participants from the intervention group and 30 from the control group. The participants covered a wide range of ages and socioeconomic statuses. The average alcohol consumption of the men recruited was 47.2 units per week, more than twice that of the entry criterion (> 21 units per week). Most (78%) engaged in binge drinking (> 8 units in a session) at least weekly. Almost all (95%) exceeded the threshold for a 19-fold increase in the risk of dying from liver disease (BMI of > 30 kg/m 2 and > 14 units of alcohol per week). Despite this, they believed that they were at low risk of harm from alcohol, possibly because they seldom suffered acute harms (e.g. hangovers) and made few visits to a general practitioner or hospital. The intervention was delivered with high fidelity. A high follow-up rate was achieved (98%) and the outcomes for the full RCT were measured. A process evaluation showed that participants engaged with the main components of the intervention. The acceptability of the study methods was high. This feasibility study developed a novel intervention and evaluated all of the stages of a RCT that would test the effectiveness of the intervention. The main stages of a trial were completed successfully: recruitment, randomisation, intervention delivery, follow-up and measurement of study outcomes. Most of the men recruited drank very heavily and were also obese. This places them at a very high risk of liver disease, making them a priority for intervention. A RCT to test the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the intervention. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN55309164. This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment ; Vol. 21, No. 19. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Efficient utilization of greenhouse gases in a gas-to-liquids process combined with CO2/steam-mixed reforming and Fe-based Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.

PubMed

Zhang, Chundong; Jun, Ki-Won; Ha, Kyoung-Su; Lee, Yun-Jo; Kang, Seok Chang

2014-07-15

Two process models for carbon dioxide utilized gas-to-liquids (GTL) process (CUGP) mainly producing light olefins and Fischer-Tropsch (F-T) synthetic oils were developed by Aspen Plus software. Both models are mainly composed of a reforming unit, an F-T synthesis unit and a recycle unit, while the main difference is the feeding point of fresh CO2. In the reforming unit, CO2 reforming and steam reforming of methane are combined together to produce syngas in flexible composition. Meanwhile, CO2 hydrogenation is conducted via reverse water gas shift on the Fe-based catalysts in the F-T synthesis unit to produce hydrocarbons. After F-T synthesis, the unreacted syngas is recycled to F-T synthesis and reforming units to enhance process efficiency. From the simulation results, it was found that the carbon efficiencies of both CUGP options were successfully improved, and total CO2 emissions were significantly reduced, compared with the conventional GTL processes. The process efficiency was sensitive to recycle ratio and more recycle seemed to be beneficial for improving process efficiency and reducing CO2 emission. However, the process efficiency was rather insensitive to split ratio (recycle to reforming unit/total recycle), and the optimum split ratio was determined to be zero.

46 CFR 108.419 - Fire main capacity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Fire Extinguishing Systems Fire Main System § 108.419 Fire main capacity. The diameter of the fire... pumps operating simultaneously. ...

46 CFR 108.419 - Fire main capacity.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS DESIGN AND EQUIPMENT Fire Extinguishing Systems Fire Main System § 108.419 Fire main capacity. The diameter of the fire... pumps operating simultaneously. ...

Engine speed control apparatus

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

Ishii, M.; Miyazaki, M.; Nakamura, N.

1986-11-04

This patent describes an engine speed control apparatus. The system comprises an actuator for adjusting an engine speed, a first unit for computing a desired engine speed, a second unit for detecting the actual engine speed, and a third unit for detecting the difference between the outputs of the first and second units. The system also includes a fourth unit for computing a control pulse width for the actuator in accordance with the output of the third unit, a fifth unit for generating a control signal, a sixth unit for driving the actuator in response to the output of themore » fifth unit, and a seventh unit for computing an optimal halt time to interrupt the driving of the actuator. The actuator is driven intermittently in conformity in the control pulse width and the halt time.« less

Comparing the Effect of Echinacea and Chlorhexidine Mouthwash on the Microbial Flora of Intubated Patients Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit.

PubMed

Safarabadi, Mehdi; Ghaznavi-Rad, Ehsanollah; Pakniyat, Abdolghader; Rezaie, Korosh; Jadidi, Ali

2017-01-01

Providing intubated patients admitted to the intensive care units with oral healthcare is one of the main tasks of nurses in order to prevent Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP). This study aimed at comparing the effects of two mouthwash solutions (echinacea and chlorhexidine) on the oral microbial flora of patients hospitalized in the intensive care units. In this clinical trial, 70 patients aged between18 and 65 years undergoing tracheal intubation through the mouth in three hospitals in Arak, were selected using simple random sampling and were randomly divided into two groups: the intervention group and the control group. The oral health checklist was used to collect the data (before and after the intervention). The samples were obtained from the orally intubated patients and were then cultured in selective media. Afterwards, the aerobic microbial growth was investigated in all culture media. The data were analyzed using SPSS software. The microbial flora in the echinacea group significantly decreased after the intervention ( p < 0.0001) and it was also the case withmicrobial flora of the patients in the chlorhexidine group ( p < 0.001). After 4 days, the oral microbial flora of the patients in the intervention group was lower than that of the patients in the control group ( p < 0.001). The results showed that the echinacea solution was more effective in decreasing the oral microbial flora of patients in the intensive care unit. Given the benefits of the components of the herb Echinacea, it can be suggested as a viable alternative to chlorhexidine.

Modeling of the Human - Operator in a Complex System Functioning Under Extreme Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Getzov, Peter; Hubenova, Zoia; Yordanov, Dimitar; Popov, Wiliam

2013-12-01

Problems, related to the explication of sophisticated control systems of objects, operating under extreme conditions, have been examined and the impact of the effectiveness of the operator's activity on the systems as a whole. The necessity of creation of complex simulation models, reflecting operator's activity, is discussed. Organizational and technical system of an unmanned aviation complex is described as a sophisticated ergatic system. Computer realization of main subsystems of algorithmic system of the man as a controlling system is implemented and specialized software for data processing and analysis is developed. An original computer model of a Man as a tracking system has been implemented. Model of unmanned complex for operators training and formation of a mental model in emergency situation, implemented in "matlab-simulink" environment, has been synthesized. As a unit of the control loop, the pilot (operator) is simplified viewed as an autocontrol system consisting of three main interconnected subsystems: sensitive organs (perception sensors); central nervous system; executive organs (muscles of the arms, legs, back). Theoretical-data model of prediction the level of operator's information load in ergatic systems is proposed. It allows the assessment and prediction of the effectiveness of a real working operator. Simulation model of operator's activity in takeoff based on the Petri nets has been synthesized.

Thrust vector control using electric actuation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bechtel, Robert T.; Hall, David K.

1995-01-01

Presently, gimbaling of launch vehicle engines for thrust vector control is generally accomplished using a hydraulic system. In the case of the space shuttle solid rocket boosters and main engines, these systems are powered by hydrazine auxiliary power units. Use of electromechanical actuators would provide significant advantages in cost and maintenance. However, present energy source technologies such as batteries are heavy to the point of causing significant weight penalties. Utilizing capacitor technology developed by the Auburn University Space Power Institute in collaboration with the Auburn CCDS, Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) and Auburn are developing EMA system components with emphasis on high discharge rate energy sources compatible with space shuttle type thrust vector control requirements. Testing has been done at MSFC as part of EMA system tests with loads up to 66000 newtons for pulse times of several seconds. Results show such an approach to be feasible providing a potential for reduced weight and operations costs for new launch vehicles.

Storage characteristics of multiple-donor pooled red blood cells compared to single-donor red blood cell units.

PubMed

Mathur, Aabhas; Chowdhury, Raquibul; Hillyer, Christopher D; Mitchell, W Beau; Shaz, Beth H

2016-12-01

Each unit of blood donated is processed and stored individually resulting in variability in the amount of red blood cells (RBCs) collected, RBC properties, and the 24-hour posttransfusion RBC survivability. As a result, each unit differs in its ability to deliver oxygen and potentially its effects on the recipient. The goal of this study was to investigate the storage of pooled RBCs from multiple donors in comparison to control standard RBC units. Two units of irradiated, leukoreduced RBCs of same ABO, D, E, C, and K antigen phenotype were collected from each of five donors using apheresis. One unit from each donor was pooled in a 2-L bag and remaining units were used as controls. After being pooled, RBCs were separated in five bags and stored at 4°C along with the controls. Quality indexes were measured on Days 2, 14, and 28 for all the units. Adenosine triphosphate assays for both pooled and controls showed a slight decrease from Day 2 to Day 28 (pooled/control from 5.22/5.24 to 4.35/4.33 µmol/g hemoglobin [Hb]). 2,3-Diphosphoglycerate was successfully rejuvenated for all RBC units on Day 28 (pooled 11.46 µmol/g Hb; control 11.86 µmol/g Hb). The results showed a nonsignificant difference between pooled and control units, with a general trend of lower standard deviation for pooled units when compared to controls. Pooled units have reduced unit-to-unit variability. Future exploration of their immunogenicity is required before using pooled units for transfusion. © 2016 AABB.

MISR UAE Products

Atmospheric Science Data Center

2016-11-25

United Arab Emirates - Unified Aerosol Experiment (UAE 2 ) 2004 The United Arab Emirates-Unified Aerosol Experiment (UAE2) 2004 field campaign scheduled ... 2004 targets the coastal and desert regions of the United Arab Emirates. The main scientific goal is to evaluate and improve satellite ...

The Damper Spring Unit of the Sentinel 1 Solar Array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Doejaaren, Frans; Ellenbroek, Marcel

2012-01-01

The Damper Spring Unit (DSU, see Figure 1) has been designed to provide the damping required to control the deployment speed of the spring driven solar array deployment in an ARA Mk3 or FRED based Solar Array in situations where the standard application of a damper at the root-hinge is not feasible. The unit consists of four major parts: a main bracket, an eddy current damper, a spring unit, an actuation pulley which is coupled via Kevlar cables to a synchro-pulley of a hinge. The damper slows down the deployment speed and prevents deployment shocks at deployment completion. The spring unit includes 4 springs which overcome the resistances of the damper and the specific DSU control cable loop. This means it can be added to any spring driven deployment system without major modifications of that system. Engineering models of the Sentinel 1 solar array wing have been built to identify the deployment behavior, and to help to determine the optimal pulley ratios of the solar array and to finalize the DSU design. During the functional tests, the behavior proved to be very sensitive for the alignment of the DSU. This was therefore monitored carefully during the qualification program, especially prior to the TV cold testing. During TV "Cold" testing the measured retarding torque exceeded the max. required value: 284 N-mm versus the required 247 N-mm. Although this requirement was not met, the torque balance analysis shows that the 284 N-mm can be accepted, because the spring unit can provide 1.5 times more torque than required. Some functional tests of the DSU have been performed without the eddy current damper attached. It provided input data for the ADAMS solar array wing model. Simulation of the Sentinel-1 deployment (including DSU) in ADAMS allowed the actual wing deployment tests to be limited in both complexity and number of tests. The DSU for the Sentinel-1 solar array was successfully qualified and the flight models are in production.

Design, construction, and operation of an actively controlled deep-sea CO2 enrichment experiment using a cabled observatory system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kirkwood, William J.; Walz, Peter M.; Peltzer, Edward T.; Barry, James P.; Herlien, Robert A.; Headley, Kent L.; Kecy, Chad; Matsumoto, George I.; Maughan, Thom; O'Reilly, Thomas C.; Salamy, Karen A.; Shane, Farley; Brewer, Peter G.

2015-03-01

We describe the design, testing, and performance of an actively controlled deep-sea Free Ocean CO2 Enrichment (dp-FOCE) system for the execution of seafloor experiments relating to the impacts of ocean acidification on natural ecosystems. We used the 880 m deep MARS (Monterey Accelerated Research System) cable site offshore Monterey Bay, California for this work, but the Free Ocean CO2 Enrichment (FOCE) system concept is designed to be scalable and can be modified to be used in a wide variety of ocean depths and locations. The main frame is based on a flume design with active thruster control of flow and a central experimental chamber. The unit was allowed to free fall to the seafloor and connected to the cable node by remotely operated vehicle (ROV) manipulation. For operation at depth we designed a liquid CO2 containment reservoir which provided the CO2 enriched working fluid as ambient seawater was drawn through the reservoir beneath the more buoyant liquid CO2. Our design allowed for the significant lag time associated with the hydration of the dissolved CO2 molecule, resulting in an e-folding time, τ, of 97 s between fluid injection and pH sensing at the mean local T=4.31±0.14 °C and pHT of 7.625±0.011. The system maintained a pH offset of 0.4 pH units compared to the surrounding ocean for a period of 1 month. The unit allows for the emplacement of deep-sea animals for testing. We describe the components and software used for system operation and show examples of each. The demonstrated ability for active control of experimental systems opens new possibilities for deep-sea biogeochemical perturbation experiments of several kinds and our developments in open source control systems software and hardware described here are applicable to this end.

5. INDUSTRIAL PIPING SYSTEM FOR 500 H.P. LLEWELLYN BOILER, ADDITION ...

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

5. INDUSTRIAL PIPING SYSTEM FOR 500 H.P. LLEWELLYN BOILER, ADDITION TO POWER HOUSE. United Engineering Company Ltd., Alameda Shipyard. John Hudspeth, architect, foot of Main Street, Alameda, California. Sheet M1. Plan no. 10,551. Scale 1/4 inch to the foot. June 1, 1945. pencil on vellum - United Engineering Company Shipyard, Boiler House, 2900 Main Street, Alameda, Alameda County, CA

Further follow up of mortality and incidence of cancer in men from the United Kingdom who participated in the United Kingdom's atmospheric nuclear weapon tests and experimental programmes.

PubMed Central

Darby, S C; Kendall, G M; Fell, T P; Doll, R; Goodill, A A; Conquest, A J; Jackson, D A; Haylock, R G

1993-01-01

OBJECTIVES--To study the long term effects of participation in the United Kingdom's atmospheric nuclear weapon tests and experimental programmes and to test hypotheses generated by an earlier report, including the possibility that participation in tests caused small hazards of leukaemia and multiple myeloma. DESIGN--Follow up study of mortality and cancer incidence. SUBJECTS--21,358 servicemen and civilians from the United Kingdom who participated in the tests and a control group of 22,333 non-participants. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES--Numbers of deaths; standardised mortality ratios; relative risks of mortality from all causes and 27 types of cancer. RESULTS--During seven further years of follow up the numbers of deaths observed in participants were fewer than expected from national rates for all causes, all neoplasms, leukaemia, and multiple myeloma (standardised mortality ratios 0.86, 0.85, 0.57, and 0.46); death rates were lower than in controls (relative risks 0.99, 0.96, 0.57, and 0.57; 90% confidence intervals all included 1.00). In the period more than 10 years after the initial participation in tests the relative risk of death in participants compared with controls was near unity for all causes (relative risk 0.99 (0.95 to 1.04) and all neoplasms (0.95 (0.87 to 1.04)); it was raised for bladder cancer (2.69 (1.42 to 5.20)) and reduced for cancers of the mouth, tongue, and pharynx (0.45 (0.22 to 0.93)) and for lung cancer (0.85 (0.73 to 0.99)). For leukaemia mortality was equal to that expected from national rates but greater than in controls for both the whole follow up period (1.75 (1.01 to 3.06)) and the period 2-25 years after the tests (3.38 (1.45 to 8.25)). CONCLUSION--Participation in nuclear weapon tests had no detectable effect on expectation of life or on subsequent risk of developing cancer or other fatal diseases. The excess of leukaemia in participants compared with controls seems to be principally due to a chance deficit in the controls, but the possibility that participation in the tests may have caused a small risk of leukaemia in the early years afterwards cannot be ruled out. PMID:8274923

Model Verification and Validation Concepts for a Probabilistic Fracture Assessment Model to Predict Cracking of Knife Edge Seals in the Space Shuttle Main Engine High Pressure Oxidizer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pai, Shantaram S.; Riha, David S.

2013-01-01

Physics-based models are routinely used to predict the performance of engineered systems to make decisions such as when to retire system components, how to extend the life of an aging system, or if a new design will be safe or available. Model verification and validation (V&V) is a process to establish credibility in model predictions. Ideally, carefully controlled validation experiments will be designed and performed to validate models or submodels. In reality, time and cost constraints limit experiments and even model development. This paper describes elements of model V&V during the development and application of a probabilistic fracture assessment model to predict cracking in space shuttle main engine high-pressure oxidizer turbopump knife-edge seals. The objective of this effort was to assess the probability of initiating and growing a crack to a specified failure length in specific flight units for different usage and inspection scenarios. The probabilistic fracture assessment model developed in this investigation combined a series of submodels describing the usage, temperature history, flutter tendencies, tooth stresses and numbers of cycles, fatigue cracking, nondestructive inspection, and finally the probability of failure. The analysis accounted for unit-to-unit variations in temperature, flutter limit state, flutter stress magnitude, and fatigue life properties. The investigation focused on the calculation of relative risk rather than absolute risk between the usage scenarios. Verification predictions were first performed for three units with known usage and cracking histories to establish credibility in the model predictions. Then, numerous predictions were performed for an assortment of operating units that had flown recently or that were projected for future flights. Calculations were performed using two NASA-developed software tools: NESSUS(Registered Trademark) for the probabilistic analysis, and NASGRO(Registered Trademark) for the fracture mechanics analysis. The goal of these predictions was to provide additional information to guide decisions on the potential of reusing existing and installed units prior to the new design certification.

Designing Web 2.0 Based Constructivist-Oriented E-Learning Units

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chai, Ching Sing; Woo, Huay Lit; Wang, Qiyun

2010-01-01

Purpose: The main purpose of this paper is to present how meaningful e-learning units can be created by using an online tool called Meaningful E-learning Units (MeLU). The paper also aims to describe how created e-learning units can be shared by teachers and students. Design/methodology/approach: This tool can help to produce e-learning units that…

21 CFR 870.4300 - Cardiopulmonary bypass gas control unit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Cardiopulmonary bypass gas control unit. 870.4300... (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES CARDIOVASCULAR DEVICES Cardiovascular Surgical Devices § 870.4300 Cardiopulmonary bypass gas control unit. (a) Identification. A cardiopulmonary bypass gas control unit is a device used...

21 CFR 870.4300 - Cardiopulmonary bypass gas control unit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 8 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Cardiopulmonary bypass gas control unit. 870.4300... (CONTINUED) MEDICAL DEVICES CARDIOVASCULAR DEVICES Cardiovascular Surgical Devices § 870.4300 Cardiopulmonary bypass gas control unit. (a) Identification. A cardiopulmonary bypass gas control unit is a device used...

A generic biokinetic model for noble gases with application to radon

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

Leggett, Richard Wayne; Marsh, James; Gregoratto, Demetrio

The International Commission for Radiological Protection (ICRP) currently uses a dose conversion coefficient to calculate effective dose per unit exposure to radon and its progeny. The coefficient is derived by dividing the detriment associated with unit exposure to radon, as estimated from epidemiological studies, by the detriment per unit effective dose, as estimated mainly from atomic bomb survivor data and animal studies. In a recent statement the ICRP indicated that future guidance on exposure to radon and its progeny will be developed in the same way as guidance for any other radionuclide. That is, intake of radon and progeny willmore » be limited on the basis of effective dose coefficients derived from biokinetic and dosimetric models. This paper proposes a biokinetic model for systemic (absorbed) radon for use in the calculation of dose coefficients for inhaled or ingested radon. The model is based largely on physical laws governing transfer of a non-reactive and soluble gas between materials. Model predictions are shown to be consistent with results of controlled studies of the fate of internally deposited radon in human subjects.« less

Resource use efficiency of closed plant production system with artificial light: Concept, estimation and application to plant factory

PubMed Central

KOZAI, Toyoki

2013-01-01

Extensive research has recently been conducted on plant factory with artificial light, which is one type of closed plant production system (CPPS) consisting of a thermally insulated and airtight structure, a multi-tier system with lighting devices, air conditioners and fans, a CO2 supply unit, a nutrient solution supply unit, and an environment control unit. One of the research outcomes is the concept of resource use efficiency (RUE) of CPPS. This paper reviews the characteristics of the CPPS compared with those of the greenhouse, mainly from the viewpoint of RUE, which is defined as the ratio of the amount of the resource fixed or held in plants to the amount of the resource supplied to the CPPS. It is shown that the use efficiencies of water, CO2 and light energy are considerably higher in the CPPS than those in the greenhouse. On the other hand, there is much more room for improving the light and electric energy use efficiencies of CPPS. Challenging issues for CPPS and RUE are also discussed. PMID:24334509

Resource use efficiency of closed plant production system with artificial light: concept, estimation and application to plant factory.

PubMed

Kozai, Toyoki

2013-01-01

Extensive research has recently been conducted on plant factory with artificial light, which is one type of closed plant production system (CPPS) consisting of a thermally insulated and airtight structure, a multi-tier system with lighting devices, air conditioners and fans, a CO2 supply unit, a nutrient solution supply unit, and an environment control unit. One of the research outcomes is the concept of resource use efficiency (RUE) of CPPS.This paper reviews the characteristics of the CPPS compared with those of the greenhouse, mainly from the viewpoint of RUE, which is defined as the ratio of the amount of the resource fixed or held in plants to the amount of the resource supplied to the CPPS.It is shown that the use efficiencies of water, CO2 and light energy are considerably higher in the CPPS than those in the greenhouse. On the other hand, there is much more room for improving the light and electric energy use efficiencies of CPPS. Challenging issues for CPPS and RUE are also discussed.

[Wireless Passive Body Sensor for Temperature Monitoring Using Near Field Communication Technology].

PubMed

Shi, Bo; Zhang, Li; Zhang, Genxuan; Tsau, Young; Zhang, Sai; Li, Lei

2017-01-01

In this study, we designed a wireless body temperature sensor (WBTS) based on near field communication (NFC) technology. Just attaching the WBTS to a mobile phone with NFC function, the real-time body temperature of human subjects can be acquired by an application program without seperate power supply. The WBTS is mainly composed of a digital body temperature probe (d-BTP), a NFC unit and an antenna. The d-BTP acquires and processes body temperature data through a micro control er, and the NFC unit and antenna are used for wireless energy transmission and data communication between the mobile phone and WBTS. UART communication protocol is used in the communication between the d-BTP and NFC unit, and data compression technique is adopted for improving transmission efficiency and decreasing power loss. In tests, the error of WBTS is ±0.1 oC, in range of 32 oC to 42 oC. The WBTS has advantages of high accuracy, low power loss, strong anti-interference ability, dispensation with independent power supply etc., and it can be integrated into wearable apparatuses for temperature monitoring and health management.

The meaning of technology in an intensive care unit--an interview study.

PubMed

Wikström, Ann-Charlott; Cederborg, Ann-Christin; Johanson, Marita

2007-08-01

Previous research has suggested technology may dehumanise patient care and also that technology may restrict nurses' freedom of action. This raises questions about the relationship between technology, care and medicine in units where the patient's need for treatment is often an emergency. The aim of the study was to explore how staff members in an intensive care unit (ICU) make sense of technology in their everyday practice. Twelve staff members from one ICU were interviewed about their understanding of technology in their everyday practice. Three main findings emerged from the analysis: Technology seems to be considered decisive as it directs and controls medical treatment and results in the patients' well being; technology is seen as facilitating everyday practice because it makes treatment more secure and decreases workload; however technology can complicate the staff members' everyday practice as it is not completely trustworthy, is not easy to handle and can cause ethical dilemmas. Contrary to previous findings this study shows that technology seems to be embedded in care and medical treatment. Furthermore, the meaning of technology appears to be dependent on the different staff members' accounting practices.

Mycobacterium chimaera and cardiac surgery.

PubMed

Stewardson, Andrew J; Stuart, Rhonda L; Cheng, Allen C; Johnson, Paul Dr

2017-02-20

There is an ongoing investigation into infections with non-tuberculous mycobacteria associated with contaminated heater-cooler units used in cardiac surgery. The overall risk is low, but surgical site and disseminated infections have been reported, including one possible case in Australia, mainly with surgery involving implantation of prosthetic material. Mycobacterium chimaera infection should be considered in patients who have previously undergone surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass and who present with cardiac or disseminated infection or sternal wound infection unresponsive to standard antibiotic therapy. Where cases are suspected, patients should be investigated and managed in consultation with an infectious diseases physician and/or clinical microbiologist. If cases are confirmed or heater-cooler devices are found to be contaminated, details should be reported to the hospital infection control team, the jurisdictional health department, the Therapeutic Goods Administration and the Australian distributor of the affected heater-cooler unit(s). Measures to manage risk should include communicating with relevant hospital departments, ensuring that the manufacturer's updated instructions for use are followed, regular testing of machines, and reviewing the location of machines when in use.

Paleoproterozoic volcanic centers of the São Félix do Xingu region, Amazonian craton, Brazil: Hydrothermal alteration and metallogenetic potential

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

da Cruz, Raquel Souza; Fernandes, Carlos Marcello Dias; Villas, Raimundo Netuno Nobre; Juliani, Caetano; Monteiro, Lena Virgínia Soares; Lagler, Bruno; Misas, Carlos Mario Echeverri

2016-06-01

Geological, petrographic, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction studies revealed hydrothermalized lithotypes evidenced by overprinted zones of potassic, propylitic, sericitic, and intermediate argillic alterations types, with pervasive and fracture-controlled styles, in Paleoproterozoic volcano-plutonic units of the São Félix do Xingu region, Amazonian craton, northern Brazil. The Sobreiro Formation presents propylitic (epidote + chlorite + carbonate + clinozoisite + sericite + quartz ± albite ± hematite ± pyrite), sericitic (sericite + quartz + carbonate), and potassic (potassic feldspar + hematite) alterations. The prehnite-pumpellyite pair that is common in geothermal fields also occurs in this unit. The Santa Rosa Formation shows mainly potassic (biotite + microcline ± magnetite), sericitic (sericite + quartz + carbonate ± chlorite ± gold), and intermediate argillic (montmorillonite + kaolinite/halloysite + illite) alterations. These findings strongly suggest the involvement of magma-sourced and meteoric fluids and draw attention to the metallogenetic potential of these volcanic units for Paleoproterozoic epithermal and rare and base metal porphyry-type mineralizations, similar to those already identified in other portions of the Amazonian craton.

Synthesizing Biomolecule-based Boolean Logic Gates

PubMed Central

Miyamoto, Takafumi; Razavi, Shiva; DeRose, Robert; Inoue, Takanari

2012-01-01

One fascinating recent avenue of study in the field of synthetic biology is the creation of biomolecule-based computers. The main components of a computing device consist of an arithmetic logic unit, the control unit, memory, and the input and output devices. Boolean logic gates are at the core of the operational machinery of these parts, hence to make biocomputers a reality, biomolecular logic gates become a necessity. Indeed, with the advent of more sophisticated biological tools, both nucleic acid- and protein-based logic systems have been generated. These devices function in the context of either test tubes or living cells and yield highly specific outputs given a set of inputs. In this review, we discuss various types of biomolecular logic gates that have been synthesized, with particular emphasis on recent developments that promise increased complexity of logic gate circuitry, improved computational speed, and potential clinical applications. PMID:23526588

Synthesizing biomolecule-based Boolean logic gates.

PubMed

Miyamoto, Takafumi; Razavi, Shiva; DeRose, Robert; Inoue, Takanari

2013-02-15

One fascinating recent avenue of study in the field of synthetic biology is the creation of biomolecule-based computers. The main components of a computing device consist of an arithmetic logic unit, the control unit, memory, and the input and output devices. Boolean logic gates are at the core of the operational machinery of these parts, and hence to make biocomputers a reality, biomolecular logic gates become a necessity. Indeed, with the advent of more sophisticated biological tools, both nucleic acid- and protein-based logic systems have been generated. These devices function in the context of either test tubes or living cells and yield highly specific outputs given a set of inputs. In this review, we discuss various types of biomolecular logic gates that have been synthesized, with particular emphasis on recent developments that promise increased complexity of logic gate circuitry, improved computational speed, and potential clinical applications.

Community air pollution in Canada: a review and predictions for the 1980s.

PubMed Central

Bates, D. V.

1979-01-01

The main trends in Canadian air pollution since the national program of surveillance began are reviewed in this paper. In common with the United States, significant improvements in sulfur dioxide and particulate pollution have been recorded in a number of cities after the institution of control measures. However, some areas with a concentration of certain industries still have considerable particulate pollution. Since emission of nitrogen dioxide is increasing in the United States, the consequent photochemical pollution in southern Ontario will probably continue to increase. Nitrogen dioxide concentrations in the air are elevated in some western Canadian cities, presumably because of the presence of plants that burn natural gas to generate electricity and increasing pollution from automobiles. There is increasing concern about community air pollution in cities with large metal-fabricating plants, and community exposure to asbestos fibres is likely to be an important concern in the 1980s. PMID:445269

Lessons to be Learned from Recent Biosafety Incidents in the United States.

PubMed

Weiss, Shay; Yitzhaki, Shmuel; Shapira, Shmuel C

2015-05-01

During recent months, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the occurrence of three major biosafety incidents, raising serious concern about biosafety and biosecurity guideline implementation in the most prestigious agencies in the United States: the CDC, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). These lapses included: a) the mishandling of Bacillus anthracis spores potentially exposing dozens of employees to anthrax; b) the shipment of low pathogenic influenza virus unknowingly cross-contaminated with a highly pathogenic strain; and c) an inventory lapse of hundreds of samples of biological agents, including six vials of variola virus kept in a cold storage room for decades, unnoticed. In this review we present the published data on these events, report the CDC inquiry's main findings, and discuss the key lessons to be learnt to ensure safer scientific practice in biomedical and microbiological service and research laboratories.

Digital ultrasonics signal processing: Flaw data post processing use and description

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buel, V. E.

1981-01-01

A modular system composed of two sets of tasks which interprets the flaw data and allows compensation of the data due to transducer characteristics is described. The hardware configuration consists of two main units. A DEC LSI-11 processor running under the RT-11 sngle job, version 2C-02 operating system, controls the scanner hardware and the ultrasonic unit. A DEC PDP-11/45 processor also running under the RT-11, version 2C-02, operating system, stores, processes and displays the flaw data. The software developed the Ultrasonics Evaluation System, is divided into two catagories; transducer characterization and flaw classification. Each category is divided further into two functional tasks: a data acquisition and a postprocessor ask. The flaw characterization collects data, compresses its, and writes it to a disk file. The data is then processed by the flaw classification postprocessing task. The use and operation of a flaw data postprocessor is described.

The vascular neural network—a new paradigm in stroke pathophysiology

PubMed Central

Zhang, John H.; Badaut, Jerome; Tang, Jiping; Obenaus, Andre; Hartman, Richard; Pearce, William J.

2013-01-01

The concept of the neurovascular unit as the key brain component affected by stroke is controversial, because current definitions of this entity neglect mechanisms that control perfusion and reperfusion of arteries and arterioles upstream of the cerebral microcirculation. Indeed, although definitions vary, many researchers consider the neurovascular unit to be restricted to endothelial cells, neurons and glia within millimetres of the cerebral capillary microcirculation. This Perspectives article highlights the roles of vascular smooth muscle, endothelial cells and perivascular innervation of cerebral arteries in the initiation and progression of, and recovery from, ischaemic stroke. The concept of the vascular neural network—which includes cerebral arteries, arterioles, and downstream neuronal and glial cell types and structures—is introduced as the fundamental component affected by stroke pathophysiology. The authors also propose that the vascular neural network should be considered the main target for future therapeutic intervention after cerebrovascular insult. PMID:23070610

Anthropometry and socioeconomics among couples: evidence in the United States.

PubMed

Oreffice, Sonia; Quintana-Domeque, Climent

2010-12-01

We analyze the marriage-market aspects of weight and height in the United States using data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics on anthropometric characteristics of both spouses. We find evidence of positive sorting in spouses' body mass index (BMI), weight, and height. Within couples, gender-asymmetric trade-offs arise not only between physical and socioeconomic attributes, but also between anthropometric attributes, with significant penalties for fatter women and shorter men. A wife's obesity (BMI or weight) measures are negatively correlated with her husband's income, education, and height, controlling for his weight and her height, along with spouses' demographic and socioeconomic characteristics. Conversely, heavier husbands are not penalized by matching with poorer or less educated wives, but only with shorter ones. Height is valued mainly for men, with shorter men matched with heavier and less educated wives. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Deflate decompressor

DOEpatents

Hamlet, Jason R [Albuquerque, NM; Robertson, Perry J [Albuquerque, NM; Pierson, Lyndon G [Albuquerque, NM; Olsberg, Ronald R [Albuquerque, NM

2012-02-28

A deflate decompressor includes at least one decompressor unit, a memory access controller, a feedback path, and an output buffer unit. The memory access controller is coupled to the decompressor unit via a data path and includes a data buffer to receive the data stream and temporarily buffer a first portion the data stream. The memory access controller transfers fixed length data units of the data stream from the data buffer to the decompressor unit with reference to a memory pointer pointing into the memory buffer. The feedback path couples the decompressor unit to the memory access controller to feed back decrement values to the memory access controller for updating the memory pointer. The decrement values each indicate a number of bits unused by the decompressor unit when decoding the fixed length data units. The output buffer unit buffers a second portion of the data stream after decompression.

US conventional arms transfer policy. Strategy research project

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

Langhorst, R.H.

1996-04-15

Millions of people around the world have been killed by conventional arms since the end of World War II. If increasing access to conventional arms is partly responsible for political and military aggression in post-Cold War Europe, what should be the United States` response. This study explores the new US Conventional Arms Transfer Policy of February 1995 in terms of ends1 ways and means and its linkages to US National Security and National Military Strategies. Analysis focuses mainly on post- Cold War Europe, providing examples of multilateral arms control successes and recommendations for US policy implementation.

Crystal structure of 1,3-bis-(1H-benzotriazol-1-yl-meth-yl)benzene.

PubMed

Macías, Mario A; Nuñez-Dallos, Nelson; Hurtado, John; Suescun, Leopoldo

2016-06-01

The mol-ecular structure of the title compound, C20H16N6, contains two benzotriazole units bonded to a benzene nucleus in a meta configuration, forming dihedral angles of 88.74 (11) and 85.83 (10)° with the central aromatic ring and 57.08 (9)° with each other. The three-dimensional structure is controlled mainly by weak C-H⋯N and C-H⋯π inter-actions. The mol-ecules are connected in inversion-related pairs, forming the slabs of infinite chains that run along the [-110] and [110] directions.

46 CFR 107.251 - Testing of the fire main.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Testing of the fire main. 107.251 Section 107.251 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION Inspection and Certification § 107.251 Testing of the fire main. Each fire main...

46 CFR 107.251 - Testing of the fire main.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Testing of the fire main. 107.251 Section 107.251 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION Inspection and Certification § 107.251 Testing of the fire main. Each fire main...

46 CFR 107.251 - Testing of the fire main.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Testing of the fire main. 107.251 Section 107.251 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION Inspection and Certification § 107.251 Testing of the fire main. Each fire main...

46 CFR 107.251 - Testing of the fire main.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Testing of the fire main. 107.251 Section 107.251 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION Inspection and Certification § 107.251 Testing of the fire main. Each fire main...

46 CFR 107.251 - Testing of the fire main.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Testing of the fire main. 107.251 Section 107.251 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) A-MOBILE OFFSHORE DRILLING UNITS INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATION Inspection and Certification § 107.251 Testing of the fire main. Each fire main...

Transmission Dynamics of Carbapenemase-Producing Klebsiella Pneumoniae and Anticipated Impact of Infection Control Strategies in a Surgical Unit

PubMed Central

Sypsa, Vana; Psichogiou, Mina; Bouzala, Georgia-Aikaterina; Hadjihannas, Linos; Hatzakis, Angelos; Daikos, Georgios L.

2012-01-01

Background Carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae (CPKP) has been established as important nosocomial pathogen in many geographic regions. Transmission from patient to patient via the hands of healthcare workers is the main route of spread in the acute-care setting. Methodology/Principal Findings Epidemiological and infection control data were recorded during a prospective observational study conducted in a surgical unit of a tertiary-care hospital in Greece. Surveillance culture for CPKP were obtained from all patients upon admission and weekly thereafter. The Ross-Macdonald model for vector-borne diseases was applied to obtain estimates for the basic reproduction number R0 (average number of secondary cases per primary case in the absence of infection control) and assess the impact of infection control measures on CPKP containment in endemic and hyperendemic settings. Eighteen of 850 patients were colonized with CPKP on admission and 51 acquired CPKP during hospilazation. R0 reached 2 and exceeded unity for long periods of time under the observed hand hygiene compliance (21%). The minimum hand hygiene compliance level necessary to control transmission was 50%. Reduction of 60% to 90% in colonized patients on admission, through active surveillance culture, contact precautions and isolation/cohorting, in combination with 60% compliance in hand hygiene would result in rapid decline in CPKP prevalence within 8–12 weeks. Antibiotics restrictions did not have a substantial benefit when an aggressive control strategy was implemented. Conclusions/Significance Surveillance culture on admission and isolation/cohorting of colonized patients coupled with moderate hand hygiene compliance and contact precautions may lead to rapid control of CPKP in endemic and hyperendemic healthcare settings. PMID:22859965

Cognitive function and army rejection rate in young adult male offspring of women with diabetes: a Danish population-based cohort study.

PubMed

Nielsen, Gunnar Lauge; Dethlefsen, Claus; Sørensen, Henrik Toft; Pedersen, Jan Fog; Molsted-Pedersen, Lars

2007-11-01

While maternal diabetes is a known risk factor for perinatal complications, there is little data on long-term intellectual outcome in offspring. We compare the rejection rate and cognitive functioning of military conscripts according to maternal diabetes status during pregnancy. We identified a cohort of Danish male offspring of diabetic mothers born between 1976 and 1984 and followed this cohort together with population-based control subjects to military conscription. The main outcome was army rejection rate and cognitive function measured with a validated intelligence test. The army rejection rate was 52.5% among 282 men whose mothers had diabetes during pregnancy and 45.4% among 870 control subjects (risk difference 7.3 [95% CI 0.6-14.0]). Mean cognitive scores were 41.4 units (95% CI 40.2-42.6) in diabetes-exposed conscripts and 42.7 units (42.0-43.4) in control subjects. Stratification by gestational age, Apgar score, and White's class (A-F) did not change the associations. In a subgroup analysis using available data on A1C levels during pregnancy, this variable was inversely associated with cognitive functioning. In men with maternal A1C <7%, cognitive scores were identical to those in control subjects. The slightly higher army rejection rate in men with maternal diabetes indicates higher morbidity. The identical cognitive functioning in cases of well-controlled maternal diabetes compared with that in control subjects is reassuring, but the negative association between A1C and cognitive score highlights the importance of striving for optimal metabolic control in diabetic women who are or plan to become pregnant.

Automated Decisional Model for Optimum Economic Order Quantity Determination Using Price Regressive Rates

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roşu, M. M.; Tarbă, C. I.; Neagu, C.

2016-11-01

The current models for inventory management are complementary, but together they offer a large pallet of elements for solving complex problems of companies when wanting to establish the optimum economic order quantity for unfinished products, row of materials, goods etc. The main objective of this paper is to elaborate an automated decisional model for the calculus of the economic order quantity taking into account the price regressive rates for the total order quantity. This model has two main objectives: first, to determine the periodicity when to be done the order n or the quantity order q; second, to determine the levels of stock: lighting control, security stock etc. In this way we can provide the answer to two fundamental questions: How much must be ordered? When to Order? In the current practice, the business relationships with its suppliers are based on regressive rates for price. This means that suppliers may grant discounts, from a certain level of quantities ordered. Thus, the unit price of the products is a variable which depends on the order size. So, the most important element for choosing the optimum for the economic order quantity is the total cost for ordering and this cost depends on the following elements: the medium price per units, the stock cost, the ordering cost etc.

Structural control on geothermal circulation in the Tocomar geothermal volcanic area (Puna plateau, Argentina)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giordano, Guido

2016-04-01

The reconstruction of the stratigraphical-structural framework and the hydrogeology of geothermal areas is fundamental for understanding the relationships between cap rocks, reservoir and circulation of geothermal fluids and for planning the exploitation of the field. The Tocomar geothermal volcanic area (Puna plateau, Central Andes, NW Argentina) has a high geothermal potential. It is crossed by the active NW-SE trans-Andean tectonic lineament known as the Calama-Olacapato-Toro (COT) fault system, which favours a high secondary permeability testified by the presence of numerous thermal springs. This study presents new stratigraphic, structural, volcanological, geochemical and hydrogeological data on the geothermal field. Our data suggest that the main geothermal reservoir is located within or below the Pre-Palaeozoic-Ordovician basement units, characterised by unevenly distributed secondary permeability. The reservoir is recharged by infiltration in the ridges above 4500 m a.s.l., where basement rocks are in outcrop. Below 4500 m a.s.l., the reservoir is covered by the low permeable Miocene-Quaternary units that allow a poor circulation of shallow groundwater. Geothermal fluids upwell in areas with more intense fracturing, especially where main regional structures, particularly NW-SE COT-parallel lineaments, intersect with secondary structures, such as at the Tocomar field.

MPEG-1 low-cost encoder solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grueger, Klaus; Schirrmeister, Frank; Filor, Lutz; von Reventlow, Christian; Schneider, Ulrich; Mueller, Gerriet; Sefzik, Nicolai; Fiedrich, Sven

1995-02-01

A solution for real-time compression of digital YCRCB video data to an MPEG-1 video data stream has been developed. As an additional option, motion JPEG and video telephone streams (H.261) can be generated. For MPEG-1, up to two bidirectional predicted images are supported. The required computational power for motion estimation and DCT/IDCT, memory size and memory bandwidth have been the main challenges. The design uses fast-page-mode memory accesses and requires only one single 80 ns EDO-DRAM with 256 X 16 organization for video encoding. This can be achieved only by using adequate access and coding strategies. The architecture consists of an input processing and filter unit, a memory interface, a motion estimation unit, a motion compensation unit, a DCT unit, a quantization control, a VLC unit and a bus interface. For using the available memory bandwidth by the processing tasks, a fixed schedule for memory accesses has been applied, that can be interrupted for asynchronous events. The motion estimation unit implements a highly sophisticated hierarchical search strategy based on block matching. The DCT unit uses a separated fast-DCT flowgraph realized by a switchable hardware unit for both DCT and IDCT operation. By appropriate multiplexing, only one multiplier is required for: DCT, quantization, inverse quantization, and IDCT. The VLC unit generates the video-stream up to the video sequence layer and is directly coupled with an intelligent bus-interface. Thus, the assembly of video, audio and system data can easily be performed by the host computer. Having a relatively low complexity and only small requirements for DRAM circuits, the developed solution can be applied to low-cost encoding products for consumer electronics.

NIC atomic operation unit with caching and bandwidth mitigation

DOEpatents

Hemmert, Karl Scott; Underwood, Keith D.; Levenhagen, Michael J.

2016-03-01

A network interface controller atomic operation unit and a network interface control method comprising, in an atomic operation unit of a network interface controller, using a write-through cache and employing a rate-limiting functional unit.

Project Morpheus: Morpheus 1.5A Lander Failure Investigation Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Devolites, Jennifer L.; Olansen, Jon B.; Munday, Stephen R.

2013-01-01

On August 9, 2012 the Morpheus 1.5A vehicle crashed shortly after lift off from the Kennedy Space Center. The loss was limited to the vehicle itself which was pre-declared to be a test failure and not a mishap. The Morpheus project is demonstrating advanced technologies for in space and planetary surface vehicles including: autonomous flight control, landing site hazard identification and safe site selection, relative surface and hazard navigation, precision landing, modular reusable flight software, and high performance, non-toxic, cryogenic liquid Oxygen and liquid Methane integrated main engine and attitude control propulsion system. A comprehensive failure investigation isolated the fault to the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) data path to the flight computer. Several improvements have been identified and implemented for the 1.5B and 1.5C vehicles.

A reliable low cost integrated wireless sensor network for water quality monitoring and level control system in UAE

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abou-Elnour, Ali; Khaleeq, Hyder; Abou-Elnour, Ahmad

2016-04-01

In the present work, wireless sensor network and real-time controlling and monitoring system are integrated for efficient water quality monitoring for environmental and domestic applications. The proposed system has three main components (i) the sensor circuits, (ii) the wireless communication system, and (iii) the monitoring and controlling unit. LabView software has been used in the implementation of the monitoring and controlling system. On the other hand, ZigBee and myRIO wireless modules have been used to implement the wireless system. The water quality parameters are accurately measured by the present computer based monitoring system and the measurement results are instantaneously transmitted and published with minimum infrastructure costs and maximum flexibility in term of distance or location. The mobility and durability of the proposed system are further enhanced by fully powering via a photovoltaic system. The reliability and effectiveness of the system are evaluated under realistic operating conditions.

Constraining the composition and geological history of the main types of terrains found in the equatorial belt of Titan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brossier, J. F.; Rodriguez, S.; Cornet, T.; Maltagliati, L.; Lucas, A.; Le Mouélic, S.; Solomonidou, A.; Coustenis, A.; Hirtzig, M.; Jaumann, R.; Stephan, K.; Brown, R. H.

2017-09-01

Over these twelve past years, near-IR imaging data from the Visual and Infrared Mapping Spectrometer (VIMS) onboard Cassini gave significant hints on the spectroscopic and geological diversity of the terrains on Titan's surface. The composition of those terrains still remains unconfirmed yet. Nonetheless, by applying a newly updated radiative transfer model, we provide excellent constraints on the composition and structure for the main IR-units present in the equatorial regions (±40˚N/S). Indeed, by combining this method of correction with a spectral mixing model for water ice and tholins, we determine the main chemical species present within IR-units and relate them to the observed geomorphology. We therefore propose a scenario that could lead to the current distribution of the IR-units.

Highly parallel reconfigurable computer architecture for robotic computation having plural processor cells each having right and left ensembles of plural processors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fijany, Amir (Inventor); Bejczy, Antal K. (Inventor)

1994-01-01

In a computer having a large number of single-instruction multiple data (SIMD) processors, each of the SIMD processors has two sets of three individual processor elements controlled by a master control unit and interconnected among a plurality of register file units where data is stored. The register files input and output data in synchronism with a minor cycle clock under control of two slave control units controlling the register file units connected to respective ones of the two sets of processor elements. Depending upon which ones of the register file units are enabled to store or transmit data during a particular minor clock cycle, the processor elements within an SIMD processor are connected in rings or in pipeline arrays, and may exchange data with the internal bus or with neighboring SIMD processors through interface units controlled by respective ones of the two slave control units.

Daylight control system device and method

DOEpatents

Paton, John Douglas

2007-03-13

A system and device for and a method of programming and controlling light fixtures is disclosed. A system in accordance with the present invention includes a stationary controller unit that is electrically coupled to the light fixtures. The stationary controller unit is configured to be remotely programmed with a portable commissioning device to automatically control the lights fixtures. The stationary controller unit and the portable commissioning device include light sensors, micro-computers and transceivers for measuring light levels, running programs, storing data and transmitting data between the stationary controller unit and the portable commissioning device. In operation, target light levels selected with the portable commissioning device and the controller unit is remotely programmed to automatically maintain the target level.

Daylight control system, device and method

DOEpatents

Paton, John Douglas

2012-08-28

A system and device for and a method of programming and controlling light fixtures is disclosed. A system in accordance with the present invention includes a stationary controller unit that is electrically coupled to the light fixtures. The stationary controller unit is configured to be remotely programmed with a portable commissioning device to automatically control the lights fixtures. The stationary controller unit and the portable commissioning device include light sensors, micro-computers and transceivers for measuring light levels, running programs, storing data and transmitting data between the stationary controller unit and the portable commissioning device. In operation, target light levels selected with the portable commissioning device and the controller unit is remotely programmed to automatically maintain the target level.

Daylight control system device and method

DOEpatents

Paton, John Douglas

2009-12-01

A system and device for and a method of programming and controlling light fixtures is disclosed. A system in accordance with the present invention includes a stationary controller unit that is electrically coupled to the light fixtures. The stationary controller unit is configured to be remotely programmed with a portable commissioning device to automatically control the lights fixtures. The stationary controller unit and the portable commissioning device include light sensors, micro-computers and transceivers for measuring light levels, running programs, storing data and transmitting data between the stationary controller unit and the portable commissioning device. In operation, target light levels selected with the portable commissioning device and the controller unit is remotely programmed to automatically maintain the target level.

Interface For Fault-Tolerant Control System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shaver, Charles; Williamson, Michael

1989-01-01

Interface unit and controller emulator developed for research on electronic helicopter-flight-control systems equipped with artificial intelligence. Interface unit interrupt-driven system designed to link microprocessor-based, quadruply-redundant, asynchronous, ultra-reliable, fault-tolerant control system (controller) with electronic servocontrol unit that controls set of hydraulic actuators. Receives digital feedforward messages from, and transmits digital feedback messages to, controller through differential signal lines or fiber-optic cables (thus far only differential signal lines have been used). Analog signals transmitted to and from servocontrol unit via coaxial cables.

Control of adaptive optic element displacement with the help of a magnetic rheology drive

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deulin, Eugeni A.; Mikhailov, Valeri P.; Sytchev, Victor V.

2000-10-01

The control system of adaptive optic of a large astronomical segmentated telescope was designed and tested. The dynamic model and the amplitude-frequency analysis of the new magnetic rheology (MR) drive are presented. The loop controlled drive consists of hydrostatic carrier, MR hydraulic loop controlling system, elastic thin wall seal, stainless seal which are united in a single three coordinate manipulator. This combination ensures short positioning error (delta) (phi)

The Last State to Grant Nurse Practitioners DEA Licensure: An Education Improvement Initiative on the Florida Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.

PubMed

Kellams, Joni R; Maye, John P

Nurse practitioners (NPs) now have prescriptive authority for controlled substances in all 50 states in the United States. Florida, the last state to grant NPs DEA licensure, has been wrought with prescription diversion practices for a number of years as pill mills, doctor shopping, and overprescribing proliferated. Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) help curb drug diversion activity and play a key role in reducing the abuse of controlled substances. The primary objective of this education improvement initiative was to increase knowledge of actively licensed NPs in the state of Florida regarding the state's PDMP. The main themes included the drug abuse problem, description and progression of the PDMP, and how to use the Florida PDMP. Upon approval from the institutional review board, this education improvement initiative gauged NP knowledge of the PDMP and main themes before and after an educational PowerPoint intervention. A pretest/posttest questionnaire was administered for assessment of all knowledge questions. One hundred forty-five NPs with active advanced registered NP licenses in Florida completed both the pretest and posttest questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and paired t tests were used for statistical significance testing. Knowledge of the PDMP and the main themes of the education improvement initiative significantly increased (p < .001) from pretest to posttest results. This education improvement initiative had positive effects for NPs on the knowledge of the Florida PDMP and the main themes. This indicated that Florida NPs are able to acquire greater comprehension of the PDMP by an education intervention.

RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AMONG INTENSIVE CARE NURSES: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY

PubMed Central

Heydari, Abbas; Najar, Ali Vafaee; Bakhshi, Mahmoud

2015-01-01

Background: Nurses are the main users of supplies and equipment applied in the Intensive Care Units (ICUs) which are high-priced and costly. Therefore, understanding ICU nurses’ experiences about resource management contributes to the better control of the costs. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the culture of nurses’ working environment regarding the resource management in the ICUs in Iran. Patients and Methods: In this study, a focused ethnographic method was used. Twenty-eight informants among ICU nurses and other professional individuals were purposively selected and interviewed. As well, 400 hours of ethnographic observations as a participant observer was used for data gathering. Data analysis was performed using the methods described by Miles and Huberman (1994). Results: Two main themes describing the culture of ICU nurses regarding resource management included (a) consumption monitoring and auditing, and (b) prudent use. The results revealed that the efforts for resource management are conducted in the conditions of scarcity and uncertainty in supply. ICU nurses had a sense of futurism in the supply and use of resources in the unit and do the planning through taking the rules and guidelines as well as the available resources and their values into account. Improper storage of some supplies and equipment was a reaction to this uncertain condition among nurses. Conclusions: To manage the resources effectively, improvement of supply chain management in hospital seems essential. It is also necessary to hold educational classes in order to enhance the nurses’ awareness on effective supply chain and storage of the items in the unit stock. PMID:26889097

Low-fat dietary pattern intervention and health-related quality of life: The WHI randomized controlled Dietary Modification trial

PubMed Central

Assaf, Annlouise R.; Beresford, Shirley A.A.; Risica, Patricia Markham; Aragaki, Aaron; Brunner, Robert L.; Bowen, Deborah J.; Naughton, Michelle; Rosal, Milagros C.; Snetselaar, Linda; Wenger, Nanette

2015-01-01

Background Intensive dietary intervention programs may lead to benefits in vitality and other components of health quality. The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) Dietary Modification (DM) intervention includes a large randomized controlled trial of an intensive intervention. Objective To evaluate whether the intervention is associated with improved health-related quality of life (HRQoL) subscales, overall self-reported health, depressive symptoms, cognitive functioning, and sleep quality. Design Randomized controlled trial was analyzed as intent to treat. Participants Between 1993 and 1998, 48,835 women aged 50 to 79 years were recruited by 40 clinical centers across the United States. Eligibility included having fat intake at baseline ≥32% of total calories, and excluded women with any prior colorectal or breast cancer, recent other cancers, type-1 diabetes, medical conditions with predicted survival less than three years. Intervention Goals were to reduce calories from fat to 20%, increase vegetables and fruit to 5+ servings and increase grain servings to 6+ servings a day. During the first year, 18 group sessions were held, with quarterly sessions thereafter. Main Outcome Measures RAND 36-Item Health Survey was used to assess HRQoL at baseline, year 1, and close-out (about 8 years post randomization), and estimate differential HRQoL subscale change scores. Statistical analysis performed Mean change in HRQoL scores (year 1 minus baseline) were compared by randomization group using linear models. Results At one year, there was a differential change between intervention and comparison group of 1.7 units (1.5, 2.0) in general health associated with the intervention. DM intervention improved physical functioning by 2.0 units (1.7, 2.3), vitality by 1.9 units (1.6, 2.2), and global QOL by 0.09 units (0.07, 0.12). With the exception of global QOL, these effects were significantly modified by BMI at baseline. Conclusions DM intervention was associated with small, but significant improvements in three health related quality of life subscales: general health, physical functioning, and vitality at one year follow-up, with the largest improvements seen in the women with the greatest baseline BMI. PMID:26384466

Status of Electrostatic Accelerometer Development for Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment Follow-on Mission (GRACE FO)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lebat, V.; Boulanger, D.; Christophe, B.; Foulon, B.; Liorzou, F.; Perrot, E.; Huynh, P. A.

2014-12-01

The GRACE FO mission, led by the JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory), is an Earth-orbiting gravity mission, continuation of the GRACE mission, which will produce an accurate model of the Earth's gravity field variation providing global climatic data during five years at least. The mission involves two satellites in a loosely controlled tandem formation, with a micro-wave link measuring the inter-satellites distance variation. Earth's mass distribution non-uniformities cause variations of the inter-satellite distance. This variation is measured to recover gravity, after subtracting the non-gravitational contributors, as the residual drag. ONERA (the French Aerospace Lab) is developing, manufacturing and testing electrostatic accelerometers measuring this residual drag applied on the satellites. The accelerometer is composed of two main parts: the Sensor Unit (including the Sensor Unit Mechanics - SUM - and the Front-End Electronic Unit - FEEU) and the Interface Control Unit - ICU. In the Accelerometer Core, located in the Sensor Unit Mechanics, the proof mass is levitated and maintained at the center of an electrode cage by electrostatic forces. Thus, any drag acceleration applied on the satellite involves a variation on the servo-controlled electrostatic suspension of the mass. The voltage on the electrodes providing this electrostatic force is the measurement output of the accelerometer. The impact of the accelerometer defaults (geometry, electronic and parasitic forces) leads to bias, misalignment and scale factor error, non-linearity and noise. Some of these accelerometer defaults are characterized by tests with micro-gravity pendulum bench on ground and with drops in ZARM catapult. The Preliminary Design Review was achieved successfully on November 2013. The Engineering Model (EM) was integrated successfully and is under test, with ground levitation, drops, Electromagnetic Compatibility and thermal vacuum. The complete EM tests will be achieved on October 2014. The Critical Design Review is scheduled at the end of September 2014, and the integration of the first Flight Model will begin on October 2014. The results of the Engineering Model tests and the status of the Flight Models will be presented.

New insulin glargine 300 units/mL versus glargine 100 units/mL in people with type 2 diabetes using basal and mealtime insulin: glucose control and hypoglycemia in a 6-month randomized controlled trial (EDITION 1).

PubMed

Riddle, Matthew C; Bolli, Geremia B; Ziemen, Monika; Muehlen-Bartmer, Isabel; Bizet, Florence; Home, Philip D

2014-10-01

To compare the efficacy and safety of new insulin glargine 300 units/mL (Gla-300) with glargine 100 units/mL (Gla-100) in people with type 2 diabetes on basal insulin (≥42 units/day) plus mealtime insulin. EDITION 1 (NCT01499082) was a 6-month, multinational, open-label, parallel-group study. Adults with glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) 7.0-10.0% (53-86 mmol/mol) were randomized to Gla-300 or Gla-100 once daily with dose titration seeking fasting plasma glucose 4.4-5.6 mmol/L. Primary end point was HbA1c change from baseline; main secondary end point was percentage of participants with one or more confirmed (≤3.9 mmol/L) or severe nocturnal hypoglycemia from week 9 to month 6. Participants (n = 807) had mean age 60 years, diabetes duration 16 years, BMI 36.6 kg/m(2), and HbA1c 8.15% (65.6 mmol/mol). HbA1c reduction was equivalent between regimens; least squares mean difference -0.00% (95% CI -0.11 to 0.11) (-0.00 mmol/mol [-1.2 to 1.2]). Fewer participants reported one or more confirmed (≤3.9 mmol/L) or severe nocturnal hypoglycemic events between week 9 and month 6 with Gla-300 (36 vs. 46% with Gla-100; relative risk 0.79 [95% CI 0.67-0.93]; P < 0.005); nocturnal hypoglycemia incidence and event rates were also lower with Gla-300 in the first 8 weeks of treatment. No between-treatment differences in tolerability or safety were identified. Gla-300 controls HbA1c as well as Gla-100 for people with type 2 diabetes treated with basal and mealtime insulin but with consistently less risk of nocturnal hypoglycemia. © 2014 by the American Diabetes Association. Readers may use this article as long as the work is properly cited, the use is educational and not for profit, and the work is not altered.

Auction-based distributed efficient economic operations of microgrid systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zou, Suli; Ma, Zhongjing; Liu, Xiangdong

2014-12-01

This paper studies the economic operations of the microgrid in a distributed way such that the operational schedule of each of the units, like generators, load units, storage units, etc., in a microgrid system, is implemented by autonomous agents. We apply and generalise the progressive second price (PSP) auction mechanism which was proposed by Lazar and Semret to efficiently allocate the divisible network resources. Considering the economic operation for the microgrid systems, the generators play as sellers to supply energy and the load units play as the buyers to consume energy, while a storage unit, like battery, super capacitor, etc., may transit between buyer and seller, such that it is a buyer when it charges and becomes a seller when it discharges. Furthermore in a connected mode, each individual unit competes against not only the other individual units in the microgrid but also the exogenous main grid possessing fixed electricity price and infinite trade capacity; that is to say, the auctioneer assigns the electricity among all individual units and the main grid with respect to the submitted bid strategies of all individual units in the microgrid in an economic way. Due to these distinct characteristics, the underlying auction games are distinct from those studied in the literature. We show that under mild conditions, the efficient economic operation strategy is a Nash equilibrium (NE) for the PSP auction games, and propose a distributed algorithm under which the system can converge to an NE. We also show that the performance of worst NE can be bounded with respect to the system parameters, say the energy trading price with the main grid, and based upon that, the implemented NE is unique and efficient under some conditions.

Secure UNIX socket-based controlling system for high-throughput protein crystallography experiments.

PubMed

Gaponov, Yurii; Igarashi, Noriyuki; Hiraki, Masahiko; Sasajima, Kumiko; Matsugaki, Naohiro; Suzuki, Mamoru; Kosuge, Takashi; Wakatsuki, Soichi

2004-01-01

A control system for high-throughput protein crystallography experiments has been developed based on a multilevel secure (SSL v2/v3) UNIX socket under the Linux operating system. Main features of protein crystallography experiments (purification, crystallization, loop preparation, data collecting, data processing) are dealt with by the software. All information necessary to perform protein crystallography experiments is stored (except raw X-ray data, that are stored in Network File Server) in a relational database (MySQL). The system consists of several servers and clients. TCP/IP secure UNIX sockets with four predefined behaviors [(a) listening to a request followed by a reply, (b) sending a request and waiting for a reply, (c) listening to a broadcast message, and (d) sending a broadcast message] support communications between all servers and clients allowing one to control experiments, view data, edit experimental conditions and perform data processing remotely. The usage of the interface software is well suited for developing well organized control software with a hierarchical structure of different software units (Gaponov et al., 1998), which will pass and receive different types of information. All communication is divided into two parts: low and top levels. Large and complicated control tasks are split into several smaller ones, which can be processed by control clients independently. For communicating with experimental equipment (beamline optical elements, robots, and specialized experimental equipment etc.), the STARS server, developed at the Photon Factory, is used (Kosuge et al., 2002). The STARS server allows any application with an open socket to be connected with any other clients that control experimental equipment. Majority of the source code is written in C/C++. GUI modules of the system were built mainly using Glade user interface builder for GTK+ and Gnome under Red Hat Linux 7.1 operating system.

[Portable multi-purpose device for monitoring of physiological informations].

PubMed

Tamura, T; Togawa, T

1983-05-01

Unconstrained system that measures physiological information as skin temperatures and heart rate per unit time of a human subject was developed. The system contained portable device included memory control unit, instrumentation unit, timer and batteries, read-out unit, test unit and verify unit. Total number of data and channels, and interval were selected by switches in the memory control unit. The data from the instrumentation unit were transferred to memory control unit and stored in the Erasable Programmable ROM (EPROM). After measurement, EPROM chip was taken off the memory control unit and put on the read-out unit which transferred the data to the microcomputer. The data were directly calculated and analyzed by microcomputer. In application of the instrumentation unit, 8-channel skin thermometer was developed and tested. After amplification, 8 analog signals were multiplexed and converted into the binary codes. The digital signals were sequentially transferred to memory control unit and stored in the EPROM under controlled signal. The accuracy of the system is determined primarily by the accuracy of the sensor of instrumentation unit. The overall accuracy of 8-channel skin thermometer is conservatively stated within 0.1 degree C. This may prove to be useful in providing an objective measurement of human subjects, and can be used in studying environmental effect for human body and sport activities in a large population setting.

Integration Tests of the 4 kW-class High Voltage Hall Accelerator Power Processing Unit with the HiVHAc and the SPT-140 Hall Effect Thrusters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kamhawi, Hani; Pinero, Luis; Haag, Thomas; Huang, Wensheng; Ahern, Drew; Liang, Ray; Shilo, Vlad

2016-01-01

NASAs Science Mission Directorate is sponsoring the development of a 4 kW-class Hall propulsion system for implementation in NASA science and exploration missions. The main components of the system include the High Voltage Hall Accelerator (HiVHAc), an engineering model power processing unit (PPU) developed by Colorado Power Electronics, and a xenon flow control module (XFCM) developed by VACCO Industries. NASA Glenn Research Center is performing integrated tests of the Hall thruster propulsion system. This presentation presents results from integrated tests of the PPU and XFCM with the HiVHAc engineering development thruster and a SPT-140 thruster provided by Space System Loral. The results presented in this paper demonstrate thruster discharge initiation, open-loop and closed-loop control of the discharge current with anode flow for both the HiVHAc and the SPT-140 thrusters. Integrated tests with the SPT-140 thruster indicated that the PPU was able to repeatedly initiate the thrusters discharge, achieve steady state operation, and successfully throttle the thruster between 1.5 and 4.5 kW. The measured SPT-140 performance was identical to levels reported by Space Systems Loral.

Improving care of patients with diabetes and CKD: a pilot study for a cluster-randomized trial.

PubMed

Cortés-Sanabria, Laura; Cabrera-Pivaral, Carlos E; Cueto-Manzano, Alfonso M; Rojas-Campos, Enrique; Barragán, Graciela; Hernández-Anaya, Moisés; Martínez-Ramírez, Héctor R

2008-05-01

Family physicians may have the main role in managing patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with early nephropathy. It is therefore important to determine the clinical competence of family physicians in preserving renal function of patients. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of an educational intervention on family physicians' clinical competence and subsequently determine the impact on kidney function of their patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Pilot study for a cluster-randomized trial. Primary health care units of the Mexican Institute of Social Security, Guadalajara, Mexico. The study group was composed of 21 family physicians from 1 unit and a control group of 19 family physicians from another unit. 46 patients treated by study physicians and 48 treated by control physicians also were evaluated. An educative strategy based on a participative model used during 6 months in the study group. Allocation of units to receive or not receive the educative intervention was randomly established. Clinical competence of family physicians and kidney function of patients. To evaluate clinical competence, a validated questionnaire measuring family physicians' capability to identify risk factors, integrate diagnosis, and correctly use laboratory tests and therapeutic resources was applied to all physicians at the beginning and end of educative intervention (0 and 6 months). In patients, serum creatinine level, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and albuminuria were evaluated at 0, 6, and 12 months. At the end of the intervention, more family physicians from the study group improved clinical competence (91%) compared with controls (37%; P = 0.001). Family physicians in the study group who increased their competence improved renal function significantly better than physicians in the same group who did not increase competence and physicians in the control group (with or without increase in competence): change in estimated glomerular filtration rate, 0.9 versus -33, -21, and -16 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (P < 0.05); and change in urinary albumin excretion of -18 versus 226, 142, and 288 mg/d, respectively (P < 0.05). Compared with other groups, study family physicians with clinical competence also controlled systolic blood pressure significantly better and were more likely to increase the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, and statins and to discontinue nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Our analysis did not adjust for clustering. Physicians in only 2 units were randomly assigned; thus, it is not possible to distinguish the effect of the intervention from the effect of the unit. Educative intervention to primary physicians is feasible. Our data may be the basis for additional prospective studies with a cluster-randomized trial design and larger numbers of centers, physicians, and patients.

Method and Apparatus for Improved Spatial Light Modulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soutar, Colin (Inventor); Juday, Richard D. (Inventor)

2000-01-01

A method and apparatus for modulating a light beam in an optical processing system is described. Preferably, an electrically-controlled polarizer unit and/or an analyzer unit are utilized in combination with a spatial light modulator and a controller. Preferably, the spatial light modulator comprises a pixelated birefringent medium such as a liquid crystal video display. The combination of the electrically controlled polarizer unit and analyzer unit make it simple and fast to reconfigure the modulation described by the Jones matrix of the spatial light modulator. A particular optical processing objective is provided to the controller. The controller performs calculations and supplies control signals to the polarizer unit, the analyzer unit, and the spatial light modulator in order to obtain the optical processing objective.

Method and Apparatus for Improved Spatial Light Modulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Colin, Soutar (Inventor); Juday, Richard D. (Inventor)

1999-01-01

A method and apparatus for modulating a light beam in an optical processing system is described. Preferably, an electrically-controlled polarizer unit and/or an analyzer unit are utilized in combination with a spatial light modulator and a controller. Preferably, the spatial light modulator comprises a pixelated birefringent medium such as a liquid crystal video display. The combination of the electrically controlled polarizer unit and analyzer unit make it simple and fast to reconfigure the modulation described by the Jones matrix of the spatial light modulator. A particular optical processing objective is provided to the controller. The controller performs calculations and supplies control signals to the polarizer unit, the analyzer unit, and the spatial light modulator in order to obtain die optical processing objective.

Genetic diversity and population structure of the tsetse fly Glossina fuscipes fuscipes (Diptera: Glossinidae) in Northern Uganda: Implications for vector control

PubMed Central

Echodu, Richard; Opiyo, Elizabeth A.; Dion, Kirstin; Halyard, Alexis; Dunn, Augustine W.; Aksoy, Serap; Caccone, Adalgisa

2017-01-01

Uganda is the only country where the chronic and acute forms of human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) or sleeping sickness both occur and are separated by < 100 km in areas north of Lake Kyoga. In Uganda, Glossina fuscipes fuscipes is the main vector of the Trypanosoma parasites responsible for these diseases as well for the animal African Trypanosomiasis (AAT), or Nagana. We used highly polymorphic microsatellite loci and a mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) marker to provide fine scale spatial resolution of genetic structure of G. f. fuscipes from 42 sampling sites from the northern region of Uganda where a merger of the two disease belts is feared. Based on microsatellite analyses, we found that G. f. fuscipes in northern Uganda are structured into three distinct genetic clusters with varying degrees of interconnectivity among them. Based on genetic assignment and spatial location, we grouped the sampling sites into four genetic units corresponding to northwestern Uganda in the Albert Nile drainage, northeastern Uganda in the Lake Kyoga drainage, western Uganda in the Victoria Nile drainage, and a transition zone between the two northern genetic clusters characterized by high level of genetic admixture. An analysis using HYBRIDLAB supported a hybrid swarm model as most consistent with tsetse genotypes in these admixed samples. Results of mtDNA analyses revealed the presence of 30 haplotypes representing three main haplogroups, whose location broadly overlaps with the microsatellite defined clusters. Migration analyses based on microsatellites point to moderate migration among the northern units located in the Albert Nile, Achwa River, Okole River, and Lake Kyoga drainages, but not between the northern units and the Victoria Nile drainage in the west. Effective population size estimates were variable with low to moderate sizes in most populations and with evidence of recent population bottlenecks, especially in the northeast unit of the Lake Kyoga drainage. Our microsatellite and mtDNA based analyses indicate that G. f. fuscipes movement along the Achwa and Okole rivers may facilitate northwest expansion of the Rhodesiense disease belt in Uganda. We identified tsetse migration corridors and recommend a rolling carpet approach from south of Lake Kyoga northward to minimize disease dispersal and prevent vector re-colonization. Additionally, our findings highlight the need for continuing tsetse monitoring efforts during and after control. PMID:28453513

Estimating the Cost of Early Infant Male Circumcision in Zimbabwe: Results From a Randomized Noninferiority Trial of AccuCirc Device Versus Mogen Clamp.

PubMed

Mangenah, Collin; Mavhu, Webster; Hatzold, Karin; Biddle, Andrea K; Madidi, Ngonidzashe; Ncube, Getrude; Mugurungi, Owen; Ticklay, Ismail; Cowan, Frances M; Thirumurthy, Harsha

2015-08-15

Safe and cost-effective programs for implementing early infant male circumcision (EIMC) in Africa need to be piloted. We present results on a relative cost analysis within a randomized noninferiority trial of EIMC comparing the AccuCirc device with Mogen clamp in Zimbabwe. Between January and June 2013, male infants who met inclusion criteria were randomized to EIMC through either AccuCirc or Mogen clamp conducted by a doctor, using a 2:1 allocation ratio. We evaluated the overall unit cost plus the key cost drivers of EIMC using both AccuCirc and Mogen clamp. Direct costs included consumable and nonconsumable supplies, device, personnel, associated staff training, and environmental costs. Indirect costs comprised capital and support personnel costs. In 1-way sensitivity analyses, we assessed potential changes in unit costs due to variations in main parameters, one at a time, holding all other values constant. The unit costs of EIMC using AccuCirc and Mogen clamp were $49.53 and $55.93, respectively. Key cost drivers were consumable supplies, capacity utilization, personnel costs, and device price. Unit prices are likely to be lowest at full capacity utilization and increase as capacity utilization decreases. Unit prices also fall with lower personnel salaries and increase with higher device prices. EIMC has a lower unit cost when using AccuCirc compared with Mogen clamp. To minimize unit costs, countries planning to scale-up EIMC using AccuCirc need to control costs of consumables and personnel. There is also need to negotiate a reasonable device price and maximize capacity utilization.

Maximizing the Functional Status of Geriatric Patients in an Acute Community Hospital Setting.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Meissner, Paul; And Others

1989-01-01

Compared patients (N=103) admitted to inpatient geriatric care unit focusing on restoration of functional status to control-unit patients (N=75). Found greater improvement in basic functional capabilities of study-unit than control-unit patients. Found mixed picture when length of stay and total charges of study- and control-unit patients were…

Experimental study of main rotor/tail rotor/airframe interactions in hover. Volume 1: Text and figures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Balch, D. T.; Saccullo, A.; Sheehy, T. W.

1983-01-01

To assist in identifying and quantifying the relevant parameters associated with the complex topic of main rotor/fuselage/tail rotor interference, a model scale hover test was conducted in the Model Rotor Hover Facility. The test was conducted using the basic model test rig, fuselage skins to represent a UH-60A BLACK HAWK helicopter, 4 sets of rotor blades of varying geometry (i.e., twist, airfoils and solidity) and a model tail rotor that could be relocated to give changes in rotor clearance (axially, laterally, and vertically), can't angle and operating model (pusher or tractor). The description of the models and the tests, data analysis and summary (including plots) are included. The customary system of units gas used for principal measurements and calculations. Expressions in both SI units and customary units are used with the SI units stated first and the customary units afterwords, in parenthesis.

A ‘reader’ unit of the chemical computer

PubMed Central

Smelov, Pavel S.

2018-01-01

We suggest the main principals and functional units of the parallel chemical computer, namely, (i) a generator (which is a network of coupled oscillators) of oscillatory dynamic modes, (ii) a unit which is able to recognize these modes (a ‘reader’) and (iii) a decision-making unit, which analyses the current mode, compares it with the external signal and sends a command to the mode generator to switch it to the other dynamical regime. Three main methods of the functioning of the reader unit are suggested and tested computationally: (a) the polychronization method, which explores the differences between the phases of the generator oscillators; (b) the amplitude method which detects clusters of the generator and (c) the resonance method which is based on the resonances between the frequencies of the generator modes and the internal frequencies of the damped oscillations of the reader cells. Pro and contra of these methods have been analysed. PMID:29410852

Linear control of a boiler-turbine unit: analysis and design.

PubMed

Tan, Wen; Fang, Fang; Tian, Liang; Fu, Caifen; Liu, Jizhen

2008-04-01

Linear control of a boiler-turbine unit is discussed in this paper. Based on the nonlinear model of the unit, this paper analyzes the nonlinearity of the unit, and selects the appropriate operating points so that the linear controller can achieve wide-range performance. Simulation and experimental results at the No. 4 Unit at the Dalate Power Plant show that the linear controller can achieve the desired performance under a specific range of load variations.

The Influence of Stratigraphic History on Landscape Evolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Forte, A. M.; Yanites, B.; Whipple, K. X.

2016-12-01

Variation in rock erodibility can play a significant role in landscape evolution. Using a version of the CHILD landscape evolution model that allows for variations in rock erodibility, we found surprisingly complex landscape evolution in simulations with simple, two unit stratigraphies with contrasting erodibility. This work indicated that the stratigraphic order of units in terms of erodibility, the orientation of the contact with respect to the main drainage direction, and the contact dip angle all have pronounced effects on landscape evolution. Here we expand that work to explore the implications of more complicated stratigraphies on landscape evolution. Introducing multiple units adds additional controls on landscape evolution, namely the thicknesses and relative erodibility of rock layers. In models with a sequence of five alternating hard and soft units embedded within arbitrarily thick over- and underlying units, the number of individual layers that noticeably influence landscape morphology decreases as the thickness of individual layers reduces. Contacts with soft rocks over hard produce the most noticeable effect in model output such as erosion rate and channel steepness. For large contrasts in erodibility of 25 m thick layers, only one soft over hard contact is clearly manifest in the landscape. Between 50 and 75 m, two such contacts are manifest, and by 100 m thickness, all three of these contacts are manifest. However, for a given thickness of layers, more units are manifest in the landscape as the erodibility contrast between units decreases. This is true even though the magnitude of landscape effects away from steady-state erosion rates or channel steepness also decrease with decreasing erodibility contrast. Finally, we explore suites of models with alternating layers reflecting either `hardening-' or `softening-upwards' stratigraphies and find that the two scenarios result in decidedly different landscape forms. Hardening-upwards sections produce a gradational change where as individual layers have more influence in the landscape form in softening-upwards sections. Generally, our modeling highlights that past depositional history can exert a fundamental control on landscape evolution during later erosion through the resulting layered stratigraphy.

Remote monitoring and fault recovery for FPGA-based field controllers of telescope and instruments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Yuhua; Zhu, Dan; Wang, Jianing

2012-09-01

As the increasing size and more and more functions, modern telescopes have widely used the control architecture, i.e. central control unit plus field controller. FPGA-based field controller has the advantages of field programmable, which provide a great convenience for modifying software and hardware of control system. It also gives a good platform for implementation of the new control scheme. Because of multi-controlled nodes and poor working environment in scattered locations, reliability and stability of the field controller should be fully concerned. This paper mainly describes how we use the FPGA-based field controller and Ethernet remote to construct monitoring system with multi-nodes. When failure appearing, the new FPGA chip does self-recovery first in accordance with prerecovery strategies. In case of accident, remote reconstruction for the field controller can be done through network intervention if the chip is not being restored. This paper also introduces the network remote reconstruction solutions of controller, the system structure and transport protocol as well as the implementation methods. The idea of hardware and software design is given based on the FPGA. After actual operation on the large telescopes, desired results have been achieved. The improvement increases system reliability and reduces workload of maintenance, showing good application and popularization.

29. MAIN CONTROL ROOM, PANELS WEST OF MAIN CONTROL AREA, ...

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

29. MAIN CONTROL ROOM, PANELS WEST OF MAIN CONTROL AREA, LOOKING SOUTH (LOCATION Q) - Shippingport Atomic Power Station, On Ohio River, 25 miles Northwest of Pittsburgh, Shippingport, Beaver County, PA

28. MAIN CONTROL ROOM, PANELS WEST OF MAIN CONTROL AREA, ...

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

28. MAIN CONTROL ROOM, PANELS WEST OF MAIN CONTROL AREA, LOOKING NORTH (LOCATION Q) - Shippingport Atomic Power Station, On Ohio River, 25 miles Northwest of Pittsburgh, Shippingport, Beaver County, PA

Beneath the scaly clay and clay breccia of Karangsambung area

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arisbaya, Ilham; Handayani, Lina

2018-02-01

Karangsambung area, Central Java-Indonesia, records tectonic evolution of the western part of Sundaland margin. The area is thought to have undergone a long tectonic evolution from palaeosubduction, collision with the continental fragments of Gondwana, to the formation of the recent subduction zone. An interesting phenomenon in this area is the presence of the Late Cretaceous ophiolitic blocks with an east northeast (ENE) trending-direction surrounded by the east trend of Eocene - Oligocene sedimentary melange formation. There was also an ENE trending Dakah volcanic rocks unit found in this area, with approximately equivalent age with the sedimentary mélange formation. There are two main interpretations regarding this volcanic unit, as an olistostrome and as an insitu shallow subduction magmatic product. Detailed mechanism of the emplacement of the Late Cretaceous ophiolite and the genesis of the volcanic rocks unit and their implications to the regional tectonic model is still open for discussion. Geophysical research in this key area may help to reveal the geometry, relationship among rocks units, and tectonic evolution. Unfortunately, geophysical studies in this area are still lacking. Previous geophysical work in Karangsambung still leaves uncertainty, especially in depth control and spatial resolution issue. Here we describe the results of previous works in Karangsambung as basic knowledge for the upcoming geophysical study.

Autonomous caregiver following robotic wheelchair

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ratnam, E. Venkata; Sivaramalingam, Sethurajan; Vignesh, A. Sri; Vasanth, Elanthendral; Joans, S. Mary

2011-12-01

In the last decade, a variety of robotic/intelligent wheelchairs have been proposed to meet the need in aging society. Their main research topics are autonomous functions such as moving toward some goals while avoiding obstacles, or user-friendly interfaces. Although it is desirable for wheelchair users to go out alone, caregivers often accompany them. Therefore we have to consider not only autonomous functions and user interfaces but also how to reduce caregivers' load and support their activities in a communication aspect. From this point of view, we have proposed a robotic wheelchair moving with a caregiver side by side based on the MATLAB process. In this project we discussing about robotic wheel chair to follow a caregiver by using a microcontroller, Ultrasonic sensor, keypad, Motor drivers to operate robot. Using camera interfaced with the DM6437 (Davinci Code Processor) image is captured. The captured image are then processed by using image processing technique, the processed image are then converted into voltage levels through MAX 232 level converter and given it to the microcontroller unit serially and ultrasonic sensor to detect the obstacle in front of robot. In this robot we have mode selection switch Automatic and Manual control of robot, we use ultrasonic sensor in automatic mode to find obstacle, in Manual mode to use the keypad to operate wheel chair. In the microcontroller unit, c language coding is predefined, according to this coding the robot which connected to it was controlled. Robot which has several motors is activated by using the motor drivers. Motor drivers are nothing but a switch which ON/OFF the motor according to the control given by the microcontroller unit.

The full moon and motorcycle related mortality: population based double control study

PubMed Central

Shafir, Eldar

2017-01-01

Abstract Objective To test whether a full moon contributes to motorcycle related deaths. Design Population based, individual level, double control, cross sectional analysis. Setting Nighttime (4 pm to 8 am), United States. Participants 13 029 motorcycle fatalities throughout the United States, 1975 to 2014 (40 years). Main outcome measure Motorcycle fatalities during a full moon. Results 13 029 motorcyclists were in fatal crashes during 1482 relevant nights. The typical motorcyclist was a middle aged man (mean age 32 years) riding a street motorcycle with a large engine in a rural location who experienced a head-on frontal impact and was not wearing a helmet. 4494 fatal crashes occurred on the 494 nights with a full moon (9.10/night) and 8535 on the 988 control nights without a full moon (8.64/night). Comparisons yielded a relative risk of 1.05 associated with the full moon (95% confidence interval 1.02 to 1.09, P=0.005), a conditional odds ratio of 1.26 (95% confidence interval 1.17 to 1.37, P<0.001), and an absolute increase of 226 additional deaths over the study interval. The increase extended to diverse types of motorcyclists, vehicles, and crashes; was accentuated during a supermoon; and replicated in analyses from the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Conclusion The full moon is associated with an increased risk of fatal motorcycle crashes, although potential confounders cannot be excluded. An awareness of the risk might encourage motorcyclists to ride with extra care during a full moon and, more generally, to appreciate the power of seemingly minor distractions at all times. PMID:29229755

Machine Vision For Industrial Control:The Unsung Opportunity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falkman, Gerald A.; Murray, Lawrence A.; Cooper, James E.

1984-05-01

Vision modules have primarily been developed to relieve those pressures newly brought into existence by Inspection (QUALITY) and Robotic (PRODUCTIVITY) mandates. Industrial Control pressure stems on the other hand from the older first industrial revolution mandate of throughput. Satisfying such pressure calls for speed in both imaging and decision making. Vision companies have, however, put speed on a backburner or ignore it entirely because most modules are computer/software based which limits their speed potential. Increasingly, the keynote being struck at machine vision seminars is that "Visual and Computational Speed Must Be Increased and Dramatically!" There are modular hardwired-logic systems that are fast but, all too often, they are not very bright. Such units: Measure the fill factor of bottles as they spin by, Read labels on cans, Count stacked plastic cups or Monitor the width of parts streaming past the camera. Many are only a bit more complex than a photodetector. Once in place, most of these units are incapable of simple upgrading to a new task and are Vision's analog to the robot industry's pick and place (RIA TYPE E) robot. Vision thus finds itself amidst the same quandries that once beset the Robot Industry of America when it tried to define a robot, excluded dumb ones, and was left with only slow machines whose unit volume potential is shatteringly low. This paper develops an approach to meeting the need of a vision system that cuts a swath into the terra incognita of intelligent, high-speed vision processing. Main attention is directed to vision for industrial control. Some presently untapped vision application areas that will be serviced include: Electronics, Food, Sports, Pharmaceuticals, Machine Tools and Arc Welding.

Addressing risk factors for child abuse among high risk pregnant women: design of a randomised controlled trial of the nurse family partnership in Dutch preventive health care.

PubMed

Mejdoubi, Jamila; van den Heijkant, Silvia; Struijf, Elle; van Leerdam, Frank; HiraSing, Remy; Crijnen, Alfons

2011-10-21

Low socio-economic status combined with other risk factors affects a person's physical and psychosocial health from childhood to adulthood. The societal impact of these problems is huge, and the consequences carry on into the next generation(s). Although several studies show these consequences, only a few actually intervene on these issues. In the United States, the Nurse Family Partnership focuses on high risk pregnant women and their children. The main goal of this program is primary prevention of child abuse. The Netherlands is the first country outside the United States allowed to translate and culturally adapt the Nurse Family Partnership into VoorZorg. The aim of the present study is to assess whether VoorZorg is as effective in the Netherland as in the United States. The study consists of three partly overlapping phases. Phase 1 was the translation and cultural adaptation of Nurse Family Partnership and the design of a two-stage selection procedure. Phase 2 was a pilot study to examine the conditions for implementation. Phase 3 is the randomized controlled trial of VoorZorg compared to the care as usual. Primary outcome measures were smoking cessation during pregnancy and after birth, birth outcomes, child development, child abuse and domestic violence. The secondary outcome measure was the number of risk factors present. This study shows that the Nurse Family Partnership was successfully translated and culturally adapted into the Dutch health care system and that this program fulfills the needs of high-risk pregnant women. We hypothesize that this program will be effective in addressing risk factors that operate during pregnancy and childhood and compromise fetal and child development. Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN16131117.

The efficacy of interactive, motion capture-based rehabilitation on functional outcomes in an inpatient stroke population: a randomized controlled trial

PubMed Central

Cannell, John; Jovic, Emelyn; Rathjen, Amy; Lane, Kylie; Tyson, Anna M; Callisaya, Michele L; Smith, Stuart T; Ahuja, Kiran DK; Bird, Marie-Louise

2017-01-01

Objective: To compare the efficacy of novel interactive, motion capture-rehabilitation software to usual care stroke rehabilitation on physical function. Design: Randomized controlled clinical trial. Setting: Two subacute hospital rehabilitation units in Australia. Participants: In all, 73 people less than six months after stroke with reduced mobility and clinician determined capacity to improve. Interventions: Both groups received functional retraining and individualized programs for up to an hour, on weekdays for 8–40 sessions (dose matched). For the intervention group, this individualized program used motivating virtual reality rehabilitation and novel gesture controlled interactive motion capture software. For usual care, the individualized program was delivered in a group class on one unit and by rehabilitation assistant 1:1 on the other. Main measures: Primary outcome was standing balance (functional reach). Secondary outcomes were lateral reach, step test, sitting balance, arm function, and walking. Results: Participants (mean 22 days post-stroke) attended mean 14 sessions. Both groups improved (mean (95% confidence interval)) on primary outcome functional reach (usual care 3.3 (0.6 to 5.9), intervention 4.1 (−3.0 to 5.0) cm) with no difference between groups (P = 0.69) on this or any secondary measures. No differences between the rehabilitation units were seen except in lateral reach (less affected side) (P = 0.04). No adverse events were recorded during therapy. Conclusion: Interactive, motion capture rehabilitation for inpatients post stroke produced functional improvements that were similar to those achieved by usual care stroke rehabilitation, safely delivered by either a physical therapist or a rehabilitation assistant. PMID:28719977

High-Resolution Analysis by Whole-Genome Sequencing of an International Lineage (Sequence Type 111) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Associated with Metallo-Carbapenemases in the United Kingdom.

PubMed

Turton, Jane F; Wright, Laura; Underwood, Anthony; Witney, Adam A; Chan, Yuen-Ting; Al-Shahib, Ali; Arnold, Catherine; Doumith, Michel; Patel, Bharat; Planche, Timothy D; Green, Jonathan; Holliman, Richard; Woodford, Neil

2015-08-01

Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was carried out on 87 isolates of sequence type 111 (ST-111) of Pseudomonas aeruginosa collected between 2005 and 2014 from 65 patients and 12 environmental isolates from 24 hospital laboratories across the United Kingdom on an Illumina HiSeq instrument. Most isolates (73) carried VIM-2, but others carried IMP-1 or IMP-13 (5) or NDM-1 (1); one isolate had VIM-2 and IMP-18, and 7 carried no metallo-beta-lactamase (MBL) gene. Single nucleotide polymorphism analysis divided the isolates into distinct clusters; the NDM-1 isolate was an outlier, and the IMP isolates and 6/7 MBL-negative isolates clustered separately from the main set of 73 VIM-2 isolates. Within the VIM-2 set, there were at least 3 distinct clusters, including a tightly clustered set of isolates from 3 hospital laboratories consistent with an outbreak from a single introduction that was quickly brought under control and a much broader set dominated by isolates from a long-running outbreak in a London hospital likely seeded from an environmental source, requiring different control measures; isolates from 7 other hospital laboratories in London and southeast England were also included. Bayesian evolutionary analysis indicated that all the isolates shared a common ancestor dating back ∼50 years (1960s), with the main VIM-2 set separating approximately 20 to 30 years ago. Accessory gene profiling revealed blocks of genes associated with particular clusters, with some having high similarity (≥95%) to bacteriophage genes. WGS of widely found international lineages such as ST-111 provides the necessary resolution to inform epidemiological investigations and intervention policies. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Main steam-line break core shroud loading calculations for BWRs

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

Shoop, U.; Feltus, M.A.; Baratta, A.J.

1995-12-31

In July 1994, the U.S. Nuclear regulatory Commission sent out Generic Letter 94-03 to all boiling water reactors in the United States, informing them of intergranular stress corrosion cracking of core shrouds found in 2 reactors. The letter directed all to perform safety analysis of the BWR units. Penn State performed scoping calculations to determine the forces experienced by the core shroud during a main-stream line break transient.

An Exploration of Maine Community College's Admission Process: A Recommendation to Maine's Department of Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woodbury, Amanda L.

2012-01-01

It is no secret that the United States is falling way behind in world educational rankings. In 1995, the United States ranked 1st in the world for college graduates however, its ranking dramatically fell in 2005, earning 15th place (Woodruff, 2008). According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, most states earn a grade of C, D, or F when it comes to…

Introducing 12 year-olds to elementary particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wiener, Gerfried J.; Schmeling, Sascha M.; Hopf, Martin

2017-07-01

We present a new learning unit, which introduces 12 year-olds to the subatomic structure of matter. The learning unit was iteratively developed as a design-based research project using the technique of probing acceptance. We give a brief overview of the unit’s final version, discuss its key ideas and main concepts, and conclude by highlighting the main implications of our research, which we consider to be most promising for use in the physics classroom.

Sedimentology of the lower Karoo Supergroup fluvial strata in the Tuli Basin, South Africa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bordy, Emese M.; Catuneanu, Octavian

2002-11-01

The Karoo Supergroup in the Tuli Basin (South Africa) consists of a sedimentary sequence (˜450-500 m) composed of four stratigraphic units, namely the informal Basal, Middle and Upper Units, and the formal Clarens Formation. The units were deposited in continental settings from approximately Late Carboniferous to Middle Jurassic. This paper focuses on the ˜60-m-thick Basal Unit, which was examined in terms of sedimentary facies and palaeo-environments based on evidence provided by primary sedimentary structures, palaeo-flow measurements, palaeontological findings, borehole data (59 core descriptions) and stratigraphic relations. Three main facies associations have been identified: (i) gravelstone (breccias and conglomerate-breccias), (ii) sandstone and (iii) fine-grained sedimentary rocks. The coarser facies are interpreted as colluvial fan deposits, possibly associated with glaciogenic diamictites. The sandstone facies association is mainly attributed to channel fills of low sinuosity, braided fluvial systems. The coal-bearing finer-grained facies are interpreted as overbank and thaw-lake deposits, and represent the lower energy correlatives of the sandy channel fills. Sediment aggradation in this fluvio-lacustrine system took place under cold climatic conditions, with floating lake ice likely associated with lacustrine environments. Palaeo-current indicators suggest that the highly weathered, quartz-vein-rich metamorphic rock source of the Basal Unit was situated east-northeast of the study area. The accumulation of the Basal Unit took place within the back-bulge depozone of the Karoo foreland system. In addition to flexural subsidence, the amount of accommodation in this tectonic setting was also possibly modified by extensional tectonism in the later stages of the basin development. Based on sedimentological and biostratigraphic evidence, the coal-bearing fine-grained facies association displays strong similarities with the Vryheid Formation of the main Karoo Basin to the south. The lowermost non-fossiliferous breccias have been correlated before with the Dwyka Group in the main Karoo, and hence the Basal Unit may be regarded as the distal equivalent of the Dwyka and Ecca groups to the south.

Mapping 1995 global anthropogenic emissions of mercury

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pacyna, Jozef M.; Pacyna, Elisabeth G.; Steenhuisen, Frits; Wilson, Simon

This paper presents maps of anthropogenic Hg emissions worldwide within a 1°×1° latitude/longitude grid system in 1995. As such, the paper is designed for modelers simulating the Hg transport within air masses and Hg deposition to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Maps of total Hg emissions and its three main chemical species: elemental gaseous Hg, divalent gaseous Hg, and particle-associated Hg are presented. The main emissions occur in southeast Asia (particularly in China), South Africa, Central and Eastern Europe, and the Eastern United States. These are the regions where coal combustion is the main source of electricity and heat production. Waste incineration adds to these emissions in the Eastern United States. Emissions of total Hg and its three species are quite similar in terms of their (global) spatial distributions. They reflect the worldwide distribution of coal consumption in large power plants, industrial burners, and small combustion units, such as residential and commercial furnaces.

Attitude Control System Design for the Solar Dynamics Observatory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Starin, Scott R.; Bourkland, Kristin L.; Kuo-Chia, Liu; Mason, Paul A. C.; Vess, Melissa F.; Andrews, Stephen F.; Morgenstern, Wendy M.

2005-01-01

The Solar Dynamics Observatory mission, part of the Living With a Star program, will place a geosynchronous satellite in orbit to observe the Sun and relay data to a dedicated ground station at all times. SDO remains Sun- pointing throughout most of its mission for the instruments to take measurements of the Sun. The SDO attitude control system is a single-fault tolerant design. Its fully redundant attitude sensor complement includes 16 coarse Sun sensors, a digital Sun sensor, 3 two-axis inertial reference units, 2 star trackers, and 4 guide telescopes. Attitude actuation is performed using 4 reaction wheels and 8 thrusters, and a single main engine nominally provides velocity-change thrust. The attitude control software has five nominal control modes-3 wheel-based modes and 2 thruster-based modes. A wheel-based Safehold running in the attitude control electronics box improves the robustness of the system as a whole. All six modes are designed on the same basic proportional-integral-derivative attitude error structure, with more robust modes setting their integral gains to zero. The paper details the mode designs and their uses.

Integrated sampling and analysis unit for the determination of sexual pheromones in environmental air using fabric phase sorptive extraction and headspace-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Alcudia-León, M Carmen; Lucena, Rafael; Cárdenas, Soledad; Valcárcel, Miguel; Kabir, Abuzar; Furton, Kenneth G

2017-03-10

This article presents a novel unit that integrates for the first time air sampling and preconcentration based on the use of fabric phase sorptive extraction principles. The determination of Tuta absoluta sexual pheromone traces in environmental air has been selected as analytical problem. For this aim, a novel laboratory-built unit made up of commercial brass elements as holder of the sol-gel coated fabric extracting phase has been designed and optimized. The performance of the integrated unit was evaluated analyzing environmental air sampled in tomato crops. The unit can work under sampling and analysis mode which eliminates any need for sorptive phase manipulation prior to instrumental analysis. In the sampling mode, the unit can be connected to a sampling pump to pass the air through the sorptive phase at a controlled flow-rate. In the analysis mode, it is placed in the gas chromatograph autosampler without any instrumental modification. It also diminishes the risk of cross contamination between sampling and analysis. The performance of the new unit has been evaluated using the main components of the sexual pheromone of Tuta absoluta [(3E,8Z,11Z)-tetradecatrien-1-yl acetate and (3E,8Z)-tetradecadien-1-yl acetate] as model analytes. The limits of detection for both compounds resulted to be 1.6μg and 0.8μg, respectively, while the precision (expressed as relative standard deviation) was better than 3.7%. Finally, the unit has been deployed in the field to analyze a number of real life samples, some of them were found positive. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

FIRST FLOOR PLAN AND SCHEDULES. United Engineering Company Ltd., Alameda ...

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

FIRST FLOOR PLAN AND SCHEDULES. United Engineering Company Ltd., Alameda Shipyard, Ship Repair Facilities, Office Building. First floor plan, door transom schedule, interior finish schedule, sash schedule, exterior color schedule, and location plot plan. John Hudspeth, Architect, at foot of Main Street, Alameda, Calif. Sheet no. Al of 8 sheets, Plan no. 10,007. Scale 1/8 inch to the foot. March 18, 1942, last revised 9/25/43. U.S. Navy, Bureau of Yards & Docks, Contract no. bs 76. Approved for construction October 9, 1943. blueprint - United Engineering Company Shipyard, Office Building No. 137, 2900 Main Street, Alameda, Alameda County, CA

Study on feasible technical potential of coal to electricity in china

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jia, Dexiang; Tan, Xiandong

2017-01-01

The control of bulk coal is one of the important work of air pollution control in China’s future. Existing research mainly focuses on the adaptability, economy, construction and renovation plan, and operation optimization of specific energy substitution utilization, and lacks the strategy research of long-term layout of energy substitution utilization in large area. This paper puts forward a technical potential prediction method of coal to electricity based on the thermal equivalent method, which is based on the characteristics of regional coal consumption, and combined with the trend of adaptability and economy of energy substitution utilization. Also, the paper calculates the comprehensive benefit of coal to electricity according to the varieties of energy consumption and pollutant emission level of unit energy consumption in China’s future. The research result shows that the development technical potential of coal to electricity in China is huge, about 1.8 trillion kWh, including distributed electric heating, heat pump and electric heating boiler, mainly located in North China, East China, and Northeast China. The implementation of coal to electricity has remarkable comprehensive benefits in energy conservation and emission reduction, and improvement of energy consumption safety level. Case study shows the rationality of the proposed method.

KSC-07pd2018

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-07-19

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, Fla. -- In the Orbiter Processing Facility bay 3, STS-120 crew members get a look at the main bus switching unit that is part of the payload on their mission. From left are Mission Specialists Scott Parazynski and Doug Wheelock at left and Mission Specialist Paolo Nespoli at right. Nespoli represents the European Space Agency. A main bus switching unit is used for power distribution, circuit protection and fault isolation on the space station's power system. The units route power to proper locations in the space station, such as from solar arrays through umbilicals into the U.S. Lab. The unit will be installed on the external stowage platform 2 attached to the Quest airlock for temporary storage. Discovery is targeted to launch mission STS-120 no earlier than Oct. 20. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

A Closed-Loop Proportional-Integral (PI) Control Software for Fully Mechanically Controlled Automated Electron Microscopic Tomography

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

REN, GANG; LIU, JINXIN; LI, HONGCHANG

A closed-loop proportional-integral (PI) control software is provided for fully mechanically controlled automated electron microscopic tomography. The software is developed based on Gatan DigitalMicrograph, and is compatible with Zeiss LIBRA 120 transmission electron microscope. However, it can be expanded to other TEM instrument with modification. The software consists of a graphical user interface, a digital PI controller, an image analyzing unit, and other drive units (i.e.: image acquire unit and goniometer drive unit). During a tomography data collection process, the image analyzing unit analyzes both the accumulated shift and defocus value of the latest acquired image, and provides the resultsmore » to the digital PI controller. The digital PI control compares the results with the preset values and determines the optimum adjustments of the goniometer. The goniometer drive unit adjusts the spatial position of the specimen according to the instructions given by the digital PI controller for the next tilt angle and image acquisition. The goniometer drive unit achieves high precision positioning by using a backlash elimination method. The major benefits of the software are: 1) the goniometer drive unit keeps pre-aligned/optimized beam conditions unchanged and achieves position tracking solely through mechanical control; 2) the image analyzing unit relies on only historical data and therefore does not require additional images/exposures; 3) the PI controller enables the system to dynamically track the imaging target with extremely low system error.« less

Safety of Spectacles for Children's Vision: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Ma, Xiaochen; Congdon, Nathan; Yi, Hongmei; Zhou, Zhongqiang; Pang, Xiaopeng; Meltzer, Mirjam E; Shi, Yaojiang; He, Mingguang; Liu, Yizhi; Rozelle, Scott

2015-11-01

To study safety of children's glasses in rural China, where fear that glasses harm vision is an important barrier for families and policy makers. Exploratory analysis from a cluster-randomized, investigator-masked, controlled trial. Among primary schools (n = 252) in western China, children were randomized by school to 1 of 3 interventions: free glasses provided in class, vouchers for free glasses at a local facility, or glasses prescriptions only (Control group). The main outcome of this analysis is uncorrected visual acuity after 8 months, adjusted for baseline acuity. Among 19 934 children randomly selected for screening, 5852 myopic (spherical equivalent refractive error ≤-0.5 diopters) eyes of 3001 children (14.7%, mean age 10.5 years) had VA ≤6/12 without glasses correctable to >6/12 with glasses, and were eligible. Among these, 1903 (32.5%), 1798 (30.7%), and 2151 (36.8%) were randomized to Control, Voucher, and Free Glasses, respectively. Intention-to-treat analyses were performed on all 1831 (96.2%), 1699 (94.5%), and 2007 (93.3%) eyes of children with follow-up in Control, Voucher, and Free Glasses groups. Final visual acuity for eyes of children in the treatment groups (Free Glasses and Voucher) was significantly better than for Control children, adjusting only for baseline visual acuity (difference of 0.023 logMAR units [0.23 vision chart lines, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.43]) or for other baseline factors as well (0.025 logMAR units [0.25 lines, 95% CI 0.04, 0.45]). We found no evidence that spectacles promote decline in uncorrected vision with aging among children. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Listening to Relaxing Music Improves Physiological Responses in Premature Infants: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

PubMed

Caparros-Gonzalez, Rafael A; de la Torre-Luque, Alejandro; Diaz-Piedra, Carolina; Vico, Francisco J; Buela-Casal, Gualberto

2018-02-01

Premature infants are exposed to high levels of noise in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). This study evaluated the effect of a relaxing music therapy intervention composed by artificial intelligence on respiratory rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and heart rate. A double-blind, randomized, controlled trial was conducted in the NICUs of 2 general public hospitals in Andalusia, Spain. Participants were 17 healthy premature infants, randomly allocated to the intervention group or the control group (silence) at a 1:1 ratio. To be included in the study, the subjects were to be 32 to 36 weeks of gestation at birth (M= 32.33; SD = 1.79) and passed a hearing screening test satisfactorily. The intervention lasted 20 minutes, 3 times a day for 3 consecutive days, while infants were in the incubator. Infants' heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure were assessed before and after each intervention session. After each session, the respiratory rate decreased in the experimental group (main between-groups effect (F1,13 = 6.73, P = .022, ηpartial = 0.34). Across the sessions, the heart rate increased in the control group (main between-groups effect, F1,11 = 5.09, P = .045, ηpartial = 0.32). Future studies can use this music intervention to assess its potential effects in premature infants. Nurses can apply the relaxing music intervention presented in this study to ameliorate the impact of the stressful environment on premature infants.

Impact of the International Nosocomial Infection Control Consortium (INICC) multidimensional hand hygiene approach in 3 cities in Brazil.

PubMed

Medeiros, Eduardo A; Grinberg, Gorki; Rosenthal, Victor D; Bicudo Angelieri, Daniela; Buchner Ferreira, Iselde; Bauer Cechinel, Raquel; Zanandrea, Bruna Boaria; Rohnkohl, Carolina; Regalin, Marcos; Spessatto, Jamile Leda; Scopel Pasini, Ricardo; Ferla, Shaline

2015-01-01

Hand hygiene (HH) is the main tool for cross-infection prevention, but adherence to guidelines is low in limited-resource countries, and there are not available published data from Brazil. This is an observational, prospective, interventional, before-and-after study conducted in 4 intensive care units in 4 hospitals, which are members of the International Nosocomial Infection Control Consortium (INICC), from June 2006-April 2008. The study was divided into a 3-month baseline period and a follow-up period. A multidimensional HH approach was introduced, which included administrative support, supplies availability, education and training, reminders in the workplace, process surveillance, and performance feedback. Health care workers were observed for HH practices in each intensive care unit during randomly selected 30-minute periods. We recorded 4,837 opportunities for HH, with an overall HH compliance that increased from 27%-58% (P < .01). Multivariate analysis showed that some variables were associated with poor HH compliance: men versus women (49% vs 38%, P < .001), nurses versus doctors (55% vs 48%, P < .02), among others. With the implementation of the INICC approach, adherence to HH was significantly increased. Programs should be aimed at improving HH in variables found to be predictors of poor HH compliance. Copyright © 2015 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

28 CFR 541.41 - Institutional referral.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... INMATE DISCIPLINE AND SPECIAL HOUSING UNITS Control Unit Programs § 541.41 Institutional referral. (a) The Warden shall submit a recommendation for referral of an inmate for placement in a control unit to... following factors in a recommendation for control unit placement. (1) Any incident during confinement in...

Evaluation of costs associated with atmospheric mercury emission reductions from coal combustion in China in 2010 and projections for 2020.

PubMed

Zhang, Yue; Ye, Xuejie; Yang, Tianjun; Li, Jinling; Chen, Long; Zhang, Wei; Wang, Xuejun

2018-01-01

Coal combustion is the most significant anthropogenic mercury emission source in China. In 2013, China signed the Minamata Convention affirming that mercury emissions should be controlled more strictly. Therefore, an evaluation of the costs associated with atmospheric mercury emission reductions from China's coal combustion is essential. In this study, we estimated mercury abatement costs for coal combustion in China for 2010, based on a provincial technology-based mercury emission inventory. In addition, four scenarios were used to project abatement costs for 2020. Our results indicate that actual mercury emission related to coal combustion in 2010 was 300.8Mg, indicating a reduction amount of 174.7Mg. Under a policy-controlled scenario for 2020, approximately 49% of this mercury could be removed using air pollution control devices, making mercury emissions in 2020 equal to or lower than in 2010. The total abatement cost associated with mercury emissions in 2010 was 50.2×10 9 RMB. In contrast, the total abatement costs for 2020 under baseline versus policy-controlled scenarios, having high-energy and low-energy consumption, would be 32.0×10 9 versus 51.2×10 9 , and 27.4×10 9 versus 43.9×10 9 RMB, respectively. The main expense is associated with flue gas desulfurization. The unit abatement cost of mercury emissions in 2010 was 288×10 3 RMB/(kgHg). The unit abatement costs projected for 2020 under a baseline, a policy-controlled, and an United Nations Environmental Programme scenario would be 143×10 3 , 172×10 3 and 1066×10 3 RMB/(kgHg), respectively. These results are much lower than other international ones. However, the relative costs to China in terms of GPD are higher than in most developed countries. We calculated that abatement costs related to mercury emissions accounted for about 0.14% of the GDP of China in 2010, but would be between 0.03% and 0.06% in 2020. This decrease in abatement costs in terms of GDP suggests that various policy-controlled scenarios would be viable. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development and Flight Testing of an Adaptive Vehicle Health-Monitoring Architecture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Woodard, Stanley E.; Coffey, Neil C.; Gonzalez, Guillermo A.; Taylor, B. Douglas; Brett, Rube R.; Woodman, Keith L.; Weathered, Brenton W.; Rollins, Courtney H.

2002-01-01

On going development and testing of an adaptable vehicle health-monitoring architecture is presented. The architecture is being developed for a fleet of vehicles. It has three operational levels: one or more remote data acquisition units located throughout the vehicle; a command and control unit located within the vehicle, and, a terminal collection unit to collect analysis results from all vehicles. Each level is capable of performing autonomous analysis with a trained expert system. The expert system is parameterized, which makes it adaptable to be trained to both a user's subject reasoning and existing quantitative analytic tools. Communication between all levels is done with wireless radio frequency interfaces. The remote data acquisition unit has an eight channel programmable digital interface that allows the user discretion for choosing type of sensors; number of sensors, sensor sampling rate and sampling duration for each sensor. The architecture provides framework for a tributary analysis. All measurements at the lowest operational level are reduced to provide analysis results necessary to gauge changes from established baselines. These are then collected at the next level to identify any global trends or common features from the prior level. This process is repeated until the results are reduced at the highest operational level. In the framework, only analysis results are forwarded to the next level to reduce telemetry congestion. The system's remote data acquisition hardware and non-analysis software have been flight tested on the NASA Langley B757's main landing gear. The flight tests were performed to validate the following: the wireless radio frequency communication capabilities of the system, the hardware design, command and control; software operation and, data acquisition, storage and retrieval.

Storage dynamics in hydropedological units control hillslope connectivity, runoff generation, and the evolution of catchment transit time distributions

PubMed Central

Tetzlaff, D; Birkel, C; Dick, J; Geris, J; Soulsby, C

2014-01-01

We examined the storage dynamics and isotopic composition of soil water over 12 months in three hydropedological units in order to understand runoff generation in a montane catchment. The units form classic catena sequences from freely draining podzols on steep upper hillslopes through peaty gleys in shallower lower slopes to deeper peats in the riparian zone. The peaty gleys and peats remained saturated throughout the year, while the podzols showed distinct wetting and drying cycles. In this region, most precipitation events are <10 mm in magnitude, and storm runoff is mainly generated from the peats and peaty gleys, with runoff coefficients (RCs) typically <10%. In larger events the podzolic soils become strongly connected to the saturated areas, and RCs can exceed 40%. Isotopic variations in precipitation are significantly damped in the organic-rich soil surface horizons due to mixing with larger volumes of stored water. This damping is accentuated in the deeper soil profile and groundwater. Consequently, the isotopic composition of stream water is also damped, but the dynamics strongly reflect those of the near-surface waters in the riparian peats. “pre-event” water typically accounts for >80% of flow, even in large events, reflecting the displacement of water from the riparian soils that has been stored in the catchment for >2 years. These riparian areas are the key zone where different source waters mix. Our study is novel in showing that they act as “isostats,” not only regulating the isotopic composition of stream water, but also integrating the transit time distribution for the catchment. Key Points Hillslope connectivity is controlled by small storage changes in soil units Different catchment source waters mix in large riparian wetland storage Isotopes show riparian wetlands set the catchment transit time distribution PMID:25506098

Storage dynamics in hydropedological units control hillslope connectivity, runoff generation, and the evolution of catchment transit time distributions.

PubMed

Tetzlaff, D; Birkel, C; Dick, J; Geris, J; Soulsby, C

2014-02-01

We examined the storage dynamics and isotopic composition of soil water over 12 months in three hydropedological units in order to understand runoff generation in a montane catchment. The units form classic catena sequences from freely draining podzols on steep upper hillslopes through peaty gleys in shallower lower slopes to deeper peats in the riparian zone. The peaty gleys and peats remained saturated throughout the year, while the podzols showed distinct wetting and drying cycles. In this region, most precipitation events are <10 mm in magnitude, and storm runoff is mainly generated from the peats and peaty gleys, with runoff coefficients (RCs) typically <10%. In larger events the podzolic soils become strongly connected to the saturated areas, and RCs can exceed 40%. Isotopic variations in precipitation are significantly damped in the organic-rich soil surface horizons due to mixing with larger volumes of stored water. This damping is accentuated in the deeper soil profile and groundwater. Consequently, the isotopic composition of stream water is also damped, but the dynamics strongly reflect those of the near-surface waters in the riparian peats. "pre-event" water typically accounts for >80% of flow, even in large events, reflecting the displacement of water from the riparian soils that has been stored in the catchment for >2 years. These riparian areas are the key zone where different source waters mix. Our study is novel in showing that they act as "isostats," not only regulating the isotopic composition of stream water, but also integrating the transit time distribution for the catchment. Hillslope connectivity is controlled by small storage changes in soil unitsDifferent catchment source waters mix in large riparian wetland storageIsotopes show riparian wetlands set the catchment transit time distribution.

National Agricultural Library | United States Department of Agriculture

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Skip to main content Home National Agricultural Library United States Department of Agriculture Ag | USDA.gov | Agricultural Research Service | Plain Language | FOIA | Accessibility Statement | Information

Cursor control by Kalman filter with a non-invasive body–machine interface

PubMed Central

Seáñez-González, Ismael; Mussa-Ivaldi, Ferdinando A

2015-01-01

Objective We describe a novel human–machine interface for the control of a two-dimensional (2D) computer cursor using four inertial measurement units (IMUs) placed on the user’s upper-body. Approach A calibration paradigm where human subjects follow a cursor with their body as if they were controlling it with their shoulders generates a map between shoulder motions and cursor kinematics. This map is used in a Kalman filter to estimate the desired cursor coordinates from upper-body motions. We compared cursor control performance in a centre-out reaching task performed by subjects using different amounts of information from the IMUs to control the 2D cursor. Main results Our results indicate that taking advantage of the redundancy of the signals from the IMUs improved overall performance. Our work also demonstrates the potential of non-invasive IMU-based body–machine interface systems as an alternative or complement to brain–machine interfaces for accomplishing cursor control in 2D space. Significance The present study may serve as a platform for people with high-tetraplegia to control assistive devices such as powered wheelchairs using a joystick. PMID:25242561

Quality of service policy control in virtual private networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Yiqing; Wang, Hongbin; Zhou, Zhi; Zhou, Dongru

2004-04-01

This paper studies the QoS of VPN in an environment where the public network prices connection-oriented services based on source, destination and grade of service, and advertises these prices to its VPN customers (users). As different QoS technologies can produce different QoS, there are according different traffic classification rules and priority rules. The internet service provider (ISP) may need to build complex mechanisms separately for each node. In order to reduce the burden of network configuration, we need to design policy control technologies. We considers mainly directory server, policy server, policy manager and policy enforcers. Policy decision point (PDP) decide its control according to policy rules. In network, policy enforce point (PEP) decide its network controlled unit. For InterServ and DiffServ, we will adopt different policy control methods as following: (1) In InterServ, traffic uses resource reservation protocol (RSVP) to guarantee the network resource. (2) In DiffServ, policy server controls the DiffServ code points and per hop behavior (PHB), its PDP distributes information to each network node. Policy server will function as following: information searching; decision mechanism; decision delivering; auto-configuration. In order to prove the effectiveness of QoS policy control, we make the corrective simulation.

[Six-months outcomes after admission in acute geriatric care unit secondary to a fall].

PubMed

Dickes-Sotty, Hélène; Chevalet, Pascal; Fix, Marie-Hélène; Riaudel, Typhaine; Serre-Sahel, Caroline; Ould-Aoudia, Vincent; Berrut, Gilles; De Decker, Laure

2012-12-01

Fall in elderly subject is a main event by its medical and social consequences, but few studies were dedicated to the prognosis from hospitalization in geriatric acute care unit. Describe the outcome of elderly subjects hospitalized after a fall in geriatric acute care unit. Longitudinal study of 6 months follow-up, 100 patients of 75 and more years old hospitalized after a fall in acute care geriatric unit. On a total of 128 patients hospitalized for fall, 100 agreed to participate in the study, 3 died during the hospitalization, so 97 subjects were able to be followed. During 6 months after the hospitalization, 14 patients died (14.9%), 51 (58%) have fallen again (58%) and 11 (22%) of them suffer from severe injuries. Thirty seven (39.7%) were rehospitalized and 10 of them related to fall. Among the patients coming from their home, 25 had been institutionalized. The main risk factor which have been identified to be associated with a new fall during the follow-up was a known dementia at the entry. The medical and social prognosis of an elderly subject hospitalized in an acute care unit is severe. The main comorbidity which influences the medical and social outcome is a known dementia, in addition to a history of previous fall.

A Master Plan for Unit Cost Studies Among Community Junior Colleges.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sims, Howard D.

The need for higher education programs is being challenged, and unit cost studies may become an integral part of the funding process for junior colleges. This paper describes the major tasks in a cost study and reviews the problems encountered in the unit costing efforts. The main tasks are: (1) identifying units of measurement (the language used…

Sedimentology of the Pennsylvanian and Permian Strathearn Formation, Northern Carlin Trend, Nevada; with a section on microfossil controls on the age of the Strathearn Formation

USGS Publications Warehouse

Berger, Vladimir I.; Singer, Donald A.; Theodore, Ted G.; Harris, Anita G.; Stevens, Calvin H.

2001-01-01

Two framework-supported, poorly bedded conglomerate units of the middle Upper Pennsylvanian and middle Lower Permian Strathearn Formation belonging to the overlap assemblage of the Antler orogen are prominent in the northern Carlin trend. These horizons stratigraphically and temporally bracket thrust emplacement of a major allochthonous thrust plate of mainly quartzarenite of the Ordovician Vinini Formation. Lithologic and shape-ratio data from approximately 4,200 pebbles and cobbles at 17 sites as well as biostratigraphic data in the Strathearn, and their geologic implications, are included in this report. Conodont biofacies throughout the Strathearn Formation are normal marine and suggest middle shelf or deeper depositional environments. The conglomerate units roughly are similar in that they contain only chert and quartzarenite pebbles, but they differ in compositional proportions of the two lithologies. The relative proportion of quartzarenite pebbles increases sixfold in the middle Lower Permian upper conglomerate unit versus its content in the middle Upper Pennsylvanian lower unit, whereas chert pebbles predominate in both units. Various roundness categories of chert pebbles in both conglomerate units of the Strathearn show that the equant pebble class (B/A) = 1 clearly is represented strongly even in the subangular category, the lowest roundness categories for the pebbles. Thus, development of equant pebbles cannot be ascribed totally to a rounding process during predeposition transport. The equant character of many pebbles might, in part, be an original feature inherited from pre-erosion rock fractures and (or) bedding that control overall form of the fragments prior to their release to the transport environment. The allochthon of the Coyote thrust has been thrust above the lower conglomerate unit of the Strathearn during a regionally extensive contractional event in the late Paleozoic. The middle Lower Permian upper conglomerate unit, highest unit recognized in the Strathearn Formation, as well as similarly-aged dolomitic siltstone, onlap directly onto quartzarenite that comprises the allochthon of the Coyote thrust. The conglomerate units thus represent submarine fanglomerates whose quartz grains and quartzarenite fragments of variable roundness and shape were derived from a sedimentologically restored largely southeastward advancing late Paleozoic allochthonous lobe of mostly quartzarenite of the Ordovician Vinini Formation. Chert fragments in the conglomerates probably were derived mostly from Devonian Slaven Chert, including a widespread thick melange unit of the Slaven in the footwall of the Coyote thrust. Some chert pebbles may have been derived from the Ordovician Vinini Formation.

Aldehyde disinfectants and health in endoscopy units. British Society of Gastroenterology Endoscopy Committee.

PubMed

Cowan, R E; Manning, A P; Ayliffe, G A; Axon, A T; Causton, J S; Cripps, N F; Hall, R; Hanson, P J; Harrison, J; Leicester, R J

1993-11-01

Summary of main recommendations(1) Glutaraldehyde, used in most endoscopy units in the United Kingdom for the disinfection of flexible gastrointestinal endoscopes, is a toxic substance being an irritant and a sensitiser; symptoms associated with glutaraldehyde exposure are common among staff working in endoscopy units.(2) The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1988 (COSHH) obliges the employer to make a systematic assessment of risk to staff of exposure to glutaraldehyde and institute measures to deal effectively with exposure.(3) At present glutaraldehyde remains the first line agent for the disinfection of flexible gastrointestinal endoscopes. Other agents are being developed; a standard means of assessment for flexible endoscope disinfectants should be devised.(4) Equipment and accessories that are heat stable should be sterilised by autoclaving; disposable accessories should be used wherever possible.(5) Flexible gastrointestinal endoscopes should be disinfected within automated washer/disinfectors; trays, bowls or buckets for this purpose are unacceptable.(6) Local exhaust ventilation must be used to control glutaraldehyde vapour. Extracted air may be discharged direct to the atmosphere or passed over special absorbent filters and recirculated. Such control measures must be regularly tested and records retained.(7) Endoscope cleaning and disinfection should be carried out in a room dedicated to the purpose, equipped with control measures to maintain the concentration of glutaraldehyde vapour at a level certainly below the current occupational exposure standard of 0.2 ppm and preferably below the commonly used working limit of 0.1 ppm. Sites other than the endoscopy unit where endoscopy is regularly performed, such as the radiology department, should have their own fully equipped cleaning and disinfection room.(8) COSHH limits the use of personal protective equipment to those situations where other measures cannot adequately control exposure. Such equipment includes nitrile rubber gloves, apron, chemical grade eye protection, and respiratory protective equipment for organic vapours.(9) Monitoring of atmospheric levels of glutaraldehyde should be performed by a competent person such as an occupational hygienist; the currently preferred method of sampling uses a filtration technique, the commercially available meters being less reliable.(10) Health surveillance of staff is mandatory; occupational health records must be retained for 30 years.(11) Endoscopy staff must be informed of the risks of exposure to glutaraldehyde and trained in safe methods of its control. Only staff who have completed such an education and training programme should be allowed to disinfect endoscopes.(12) The unsafe use of glutaraldehyde has significant health and legal consequences; the safe use of glutaraldehyde may have revenue consequences that contribute significantly to the cost of gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Fluorinated arene, imide and unsaturated pyrrolidinone based donor acceptor conjugated polymers: Synthesis, structure-property and device studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liyanage, Arawwawala Don Thilanga

After the discovery of doped polyacetylene, organic semiconductor materials are widely studied as high impending active components in consumer electronics. They have received substantial consideration due to their potential for structural tailoring, low cost, large area and mechanically flexible alternatives to common inorganic semiconductors. To acquire maximum use of these materials, it is essential to get a strong idea about their chemical and physical nature. Material chemist has an enormous role to play in this novel area, including development of efficient synthetic methodologies and control the molecular self-assembly and (opto)-electronic properties. The body of this thesis mainly focuses on the substituent effects: how different substituents affect the (opto)-electronic properties of the donor-acceptor (D-A) conjugated polymers. The main priority goes to understand, how different alkyl substituent effect to the polymer solubility, crystallinity, thermal properties (e.g.: glass transition temperature) and morphological order. Three classes of D-A systems were extensively studied in this work. The second chapter mainly focuses on the synthesis and structure-property study of fluorinated arene (TFB) base polymers. Here we used commercially available 1,4-dibromo-2,3,5,6-tetrafluorobenzene (TFB) as the acceptor material and prepare several polymers using 3,3'-dialkyl(3,3'-R2T2) or 3,3'-dialkoxy bithiophene (3,3'-RO2T2) units as electron donors. A detail study was done using 3,3'-bithiophene donor units incorporating branched alkoxy-functionalities by systematic variation of branching position and chain length. The study allowed disentangling the branching effects on (i) aggregation tendency, intermolecular arrangement, (iii) solid state optical energy gaps, and (iv) electronic properties in an overall consistent picture, which might guide future polymer synthesis towards optimized materials for opto-electronic applications. The third chapter mainly focused on the structure-property study of imide functionalized D-A polymers. Here we used thiophene-imide (TPD) as the acceptor moiety and prepare several D-A polymers by varying the donor units. When selecting the donor units, more priority goes to the fused ring systems. One main reason to use imide functionality is due to the, open position of the imide nitrogen, which provides an attaching position to alkyl substituent. Through this we can easily manipulate solubility and solid state packing arrangement. Also these imide acceptors have low-lying LUMOs due to their electron deficient nature and this will allow tuning the optical energy gap by careful choice of donor materials with different electron donating ability. The fourth chapter mainly contribute to the synthesis and structure property study of a completely novel electron acceptor moiety consist of a unsaturated pyrrolidinone unit known as Pechmann dye (PD) core. Pechmann dyes are closely related to the Indigo family. This can refer as 3-butenolide dimer connected via an alkene bridge, containing a benzene ring at the 5 and 5' positions of the lactone rings. We have prepared several D-A polymers using this PD system with benzodithiophene (BDT) as the donor unit. Different to common D-A polymers the HOMO and LUMO of the PD acceptor moiety are energetically located within the gap of the BDT, so that the electronic and optical properties (HOMO-LUMO transition) are dictated by the PD properties. The promising electronic properties, band gaps, high absorption coefficients and broad absorption suggest this new D-A polymers as an interesting donor material for organic solar cell (OSC) applications. KEY WORDS: Organic semiconductor materials, Self assembly, (opto)-electronic properties, Donor-Acceptor conjugated polymers, Fluorinated arene, 3,3'-bithiophene donors, Thiophene-imide (TPD), Pechmann dye, benzodithiophene, organic solar cell.

77 FR 41814 - Entergy Operations, Inc.; Grand Gulf Nuclear Station, Unit 1

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-16

... Unit 1 result primarily from periodic testing of diesel generators and fire water pump diesel engines... rural. GGNS Unit 1 is a General Electric Mark 3 boiling-water reactor. Identification of the Proposed... following: replacing the reactor feed pump turbine rotors; replacing the main generator current transformers...