A survey of the status of and philosophies relating to cockpit warning systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cooper, G. E.

1977-01-01

A survey was taken to study current cockpit caution and warning (c/w) systems, and to examine industry philosophies regarding c/w system design including current efforts to improve them. Guidelines currently in use were outlined and those which appear to have general acceptance, those which are considered ineffective or erroneous, and those with which there is broad disagreement as to validity, were delineated. Major airplane manufacturerd were surveyed and a manufacturer dealing specifically with aircraft instrumentation was consulted.

Structural design principles for delivery of bioactive components in nutraceuticals and functional foods.

PubMed

McClements, David Julian; Decker, Eric Andrew; Park, Yeonhwa; Weiss, Jochen

2009-06-01

There have been major advances in the design and fabrication of structured delivery systems for the encapsulation of nutraceutical and functional food components. A wide variety of delivery systems is now available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages for particular applications. This review begins by discussing some of the major nutraceutical and functional food components that need to be delivered and highlights the main limitations to their current utilization within the food industry. It then discusses the principles underpinning the rational design of structured delivery systems: the structural characteristics of the building blocks; the nature of the forces holding these building blocks together; and, the different ways of assembling these building blocks into structured delivery systems. Finally, we review the major types of structured delivery systems that are currently available to food scientists: lipid-based (simple, multiple, multilayer, and solid lipid particle emulsions); surfactant-based (simple micelles, mixed micelles, vesicles, and microemulsions) and biopolymer-based (soluble complexes, coacervates, hydrogel droplets, and particles). For each type of delivery system we describe its preparation, properties, advantages, and limitations.

Accounting for Systems Analysts in the 21st Century

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Giordano, Thomas; McAleer, Brenda; Szakas, Joseph S.

2010-01-01

Computer Information System (CIS) majors are required to successfully complete an introductory accounting course. Given the current forces in the financial world, the appropriateness of this course warrants scrutiny as to whether it properly serves the student, and the degree to which it continues to meet the IS 2002 outcomes. The current business…

Silvicultural systems for the major forest types of the United States

Treesearch

Russell M. Burns

1983-01-01

The current trend toward the establishment and care of forests for a wide combination of uses requires flexibility in forest culture and a knowledge of the silvicultural choices available to the resource manager. This publication summarizes the silvicultural systems that appear biologically feasible, on the basis of present knowledge, for each of 48 major forest types...

Tower-Related Major System Development Programs

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1978-03-01

This report is devoted to the present and near future states of the tower cab environment, addresses those MSDP systems which may have an impact on the current tower cab environment, systems and/or operations. The systems included are: Discrete Addre...

Scale Effects on Magnet Systems of Heliotron-Type Reactors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

S, Imagawa; A, Sagara

2005-02-01

For power plants heliotron-type reactors have attractive advantages, such as no current-disruptions, no current-drive, and wide space between helical coils for the maintenance of in-vessel components. However, one disadvantage is that a major radius has to be large enough to obtain large Q-value or to produce sufficient space for blankets. Although the larger radius is considered to increase the construction cost, the influence has not been understood clearly, yet. Scale effects on superconducting magnet systems have been estimated under the conditions of a constant energy confinement time and similar geometrical parameters. Since the necessary magnetic field with a larger radius becomes lower, the increase rate of the weight of the coil support to the major radius is less than the square root. The necessary major radius will be determined mainly by the blanket space. The appropriate major radius will be around 13 m for a reactor similar to the Large Helical Device (LHD).

Thermal management and mechanical structures for silicon detector systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Viehhauser, G.

2015-09-01

Due to the size of current silicon tracking systems system aspects have become a major design driver. This article discusses requirements for the engineering of the mechanical structures and thermal management of such systems and reviews solutions developed to satisfy them. Modern materials and fabrication techniques have been instrumental in constructing these devices and will be discussed here. Finally, this paper will describe current and potential future developments in the engineering of silicon tracking systems which will shape the silicon tracking systems of the future.

Korean Students' Attitudes toward STEM Project-Based Learning and Major Selection

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Han, Sunyoung

2017-01-01

The trend of avoiding science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors has persisted resulting in a lack of professionals in STEM fields. Further, the current STEM education system in Korea does not meet domestic demands for STEM labor. To discover an educational approach encouraging students to choose STEM majors at the…

Computer applications in the search for unrelated stem cell donors.

PubMed

Müller, Carlheinz R

2002-08-01

The majority of patients which are eligible for a blood stem cell transplantation from an allogeneic donor do not have a suitable related donor so that an efficient unrelated donor search is a prerequisite for this treatment. Currently, there are over 7 million volunteer donors in the files of 50 registries in the world and in most countries the majority of transplants are performed from a foreign donor. Evidently, computer and communication technology must play a crucial role in the complex donor search process on the national and international level. This article describes the structural elements of the donor search process and discusses major systematic and technical issues to be addressed in the development and evolution of the supporting telematic systems. The theoretical considerations are complemented by a concise overview over the current state of the art which is given by describing the scope, relevance, interconnection and technical background of three major national and international computer appliances: The German Marrow Donor Information System (GERMIS) and the European Marrow Donor Information System (EMDIS) are interoperable business-to-business e-commerce systems and Bone Marrow Donors World Wide (BMDW) is the basic international donor information desk on the web.

Current transformer model with hysteresis for improving the protection response in electrical transmission systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matussek, Robert; Dzienis, Cezary; Blumschein, Jörg; Schulte, Horst

2014-12-01

In this paper, a generic enhanced protection current transformer (CT) model with saturation effects and transient behavior is presented. The model is used for the purpose of analysis and design of power system protection algorithms. Three major classes of protection CT have been modeled which all take into account the nonlinear inductance with remanence effects. The transient short-circuit currents in power systems are simulated under CT saturation condition. The response of a common power system protection algorithm with respect to robustness to nominal parameter variations and sensitivity against maloperation is demonstrated by simulation studies.

Design and analysis of an automatic method of measuring silicon-controlled-rectifier holding current

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Maslowski, E. A.

1971-01-01

The design of an automated SCR holding-current measurement system is described. The circuits used in the measurement system were designed to meet the major requirements of automatic data acquisition, reliability, and repeatability. Performance data are presented and compared with calibration data. The data verified the accuracy of the measurement system. Data taken over a 48-hr period showed that the measurement system operated satisfactorily and met all the design requirements.

Global Positioning System III (GPS III)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

Vacuum (TVAC) testing on October 12, 2015, and successfully completed baseline TVAC testing on December 23, 2015 – a major system- level event...0.0 0.0 Total 4142.9 5285.2 N/A 5180.4 4269.8 5650.1 5557.4 Current APB Cost Estimate Reference SCP dated July 02, 2015 Confidence Level Confidence... Level of cost estimate for current APB: 60% The current APB is established at the 60% confidence level . This estimate is built upon the February 2015

Analytical Analysis and Case Study of Transient Behavior of Inrush Current in Power Transformer for Designing of Efficient Circuit Breakers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harmanpreet, Singh, Sukhwinder; Kumar, Ashok; Kaur, Parneet

2010-11-01

Stability & security are main aspects in electrical power systems. Transformer protection is major issue of concern to system operation. There are many mall-trip cases of transformer protection are caused by inrush current problems. The phenomenon of transformer inrush current has been discussed in many papers since 1958. In this paper analytical analysis of inrush current in a transformer switched on dc and ac supply has been done. This analysis will help in design aspects of circuit breakers for better performance.

Economic effects of propulsion system technology on existing and future transport aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sallee, G. P.

1974-01-01

The results of an airline study of the economic effects of propulsion system technology on current and future transport aircraft are presented. This report represents the results of a detailed study of propulsion system operating economics. The study has four major parts: (1) a detailed analysis of current propulsion system maintenance with respect to the material and labor costs encountered versus years in service and the design characteristics of the major elements of the propulsion system of the B707, b727, and B747. (2) an analysis of the economic impact of a future representative 1979 propulsion system is presented with emphasis on depreciation of investment, fuel costs and maintenance costs developed on the basis of the analysis of the historical trends observed. (3) recommendations concerning improved methods of forecasting the maintenance cost of future propulsion systems are presented. A detailed method based on the summation of the projected labor and material repair costs for each major engine module and its installation along with a shorter form suitable for quick, less detailed analysis are presented, and (4) recommendations concerning areas where additional technology is needed to improve the economics of future commercial propulsion systems are presented along with the suggested economic benefits available from such advanced technology efforts.

Nanocarriers for treatment of ocular neovascularization in the back of the eye: new vehicles for ophthalmic drug delivery.

PubMed

Shen, Hsin-Hui; Chan, Elsa C; Lee, Jia Hui; Bee, Youn-Shen; Lin, Tsung-Wu; Dusting, Gregory J; Liu, Guei-Sheung

2015-01-01

Pathologic neovascularization of the retina is a major cause of substantial and irreversible loss of vision. Drugs are difficult to deliver to the lesions in the back of the eye and this is a major obstacle for the therapeutics. Current pharmacological approach involves an intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF agents to prevent aberrant growth of blood vessels, but it has limitations including therapeutic efficacy and side-effects associated with systemic exposure and invasive surgery. Nanotechnology provides novel opportunities to overcome the limitations of conventional delivery system to reach the back of the eye through fabrication of nanostructures capable of encapsulating and delivering small molecules. This review article introduces various forms of nanocarrier that can be adopted by ocular drug delivery systems to improve current therapy. The application of nanotechnology in medicine brings new hope for ocular drug delivery in the back of the eye to manage the major causes of blindness associated with ocular neovascularization.

Studies of the major planet satellite systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frey, H.; Lowman, P. D.

1974-01-01

A summary is presented of the available data on the satellites of the major planets, including the currently most plausible models for several observed phenomena, for the planning of spacecraft missions to these objects. Some of the important questions likely to be solved by flyby and/or orbital missions to the giant planets are detailed, the importance of these studies to our understanding of the solar system as a whole is indicated.

Flying under the radar: The non-canonical biochemistry and molecular biology of petrobactin from Bacillus anthracis.

PubMed

Hagan, A K; Carlson, P E; Hanna, P C

2016-10-01

The dramatic, rapid growth of Bacillus anthracis that occurs during systemic anthrax implies a crucial requirement for the efficient acquisition of iron. While recent advances in our understanding of B. anthracis iron acquisition systems indicate the use of strategies similar to other pathogens, this review focuses on unique features of the major siderophore system, petrobactin. Ways that petrobactin differs from other siderophores include: A. unique ferric iron binding moieties that allow petrobactin to evade host immune proteins; B. a biosynthetic operon that encodes enzymes from both major siderophore biosynthesis classes; C. redundancy in membrane transport systems for acquisition of Fe-petrobactin holo-complexes; and, D. regulation that appears to be controlled predominately by sensing the host-like environmental signals of temperature, CO 2 levels and oxidative stress, as opposed to canonical sensing of intracellular iron levels. We argue that these differences contribute in meaningful ways to B. anthracis pathogenesis. This review will also outline current major gaps in our understanding of the petrobactin iron acquisition system, some projected means for exploiting current knowledge, and potential future research directions. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Matrix- and tensor-based recommender systems for the discovery of currently unknown inorganic compounds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seko, Atsuto; Hayashi, Hiroyuki; Kashima, Hisashi; Tanaka, Isao

2018-01-01

Chemically relevant compositions (CRCs) and atomic arrangements of inorganic compounds have been collected as inorganic crystal structure databases. Machine learning is a unique approach to search for currently unknown CRCs from vast candidates. Herein we propose matrix- and tensor-based recommender system approaches to predict currently unknown CRCs from database entries of CRCs. Firstly, the performance of the recommender system approaches to discover currently unknown CRCs is examined. A Tucker decomposition recommender system shows the best discovery rate of CRCs as the majority of the top 100 recommended ternary and quaternary compositions correspond to CRCs. Secondly, systematic density functional theory (DFT) calculations are performed to investigate the phase stability of the recommended compositions. The phase stability of the 27 compositions reveals that 23 currently unknown compounds are newly found to be stable. These results indicate that the recommender system has great potential to accelerate the discovery of new compounds.

Inferred flows of electric currents in solar active regions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ding, Y. J.; Hong, Q. F.; Hagyard, M. J.; Deloach, A. C.

1985-01-01

Techniques to identify sources of major current systems in active regions and their channels of flow are explored. Measured photospheric vector magnetic fields together with high resolution white light and H-alpha photographs provide the data base to derive the current systems in the photosphere and chromosphere of a solar active region. Simple mathematical constructions of active region fields and currents are used to interpret these data under the assumptions that the fields in the lower atmosphere (below 200 km) may not be force free but those in the chromosphere and higher are. The results obtained for the complex active region AR 2372 are: (1) Spots exhibiting significant spiral structure in the penumbral filaments were the source of vertical currents at the photospheric surface; (2) Magnetic neutral lines where the transverse magnetic field was strongly sheared were channels along which a strong current system flowed; (3) The inferred current systems produced a neutral sheet and oppositely-flowing currents in the area of the magnetic delta configuration that was the site of flaring.

Biomedical ground lead system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1972-01-01

The design and verification tests for the biomedical ground lead system of Apollo biomedical monitors are presented. Major efforts were made to provide a low impedance path to ground, reduce noise and artifact of ECG signals, and limit the current flowing in the ground electrode of the system.

24 CFR 905.108 - Definitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... F of this part. Physical Needs Assessment (PNA). A systematic review of all the major physical... capital costs required to meet the replacement need. PIH Information Center (PIC). PIH's current system.... Public Housing Assessment System (PHAS). The assessment system under 24 CFR part 902 for measuring the...

Digital teleprotection units; A technology overview

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

Fischer, D.; Madge, R.

1992-10-01

Over the past several years, there have been major technological advances in the area of fibre optics links and digital communication systems. This opens the possibility for digital teleprotection systems which are both faster and more reliable than current analogue ones. This paper presents a description of a generic Digital Teleprotection Unit (DTU) followed by a discussion on the technical characteristics of current commercial systems. A comparison is made between DTUs and their analogue counterparts in the area of transfer trip delay. Finally, a direct transfer trip system utilizing redundant DTUs is proposed.

Distributed intelligent urban environment monitoring system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Jinsong; Wang, Wei; Gao, Jie; Cong, Rigang

2018-02-01

The current environmental pollution and destruction have developed into a world-wide major social problem that threatens human survival and development. Environmental monitoring is the prerequisite and basis of environmental governance, but overall, the current environmental monitoring system is facing a series of problems. Based on the electrochemical sensor, this paper designs a small, low-cost, easy to layout urban environmental quality monitoring terminal, and multi-terminal constitutes a distributed network. The system has been small-scale demonstration applications and has confirmed that the system is suitable for large-scale promotion

Large angle magnetic suspension test fixture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Britcher, Colin P. (Principal Investigator); Huang, Jen-Kuang (Principal Investigator)

1996-01-01

Good progress is being made in several major areas. These include eddy current modelling and analysis, design optimization methods, wind tunnel Magnetic Suspension and Balance Systems (MSBS), payload pointing and vibration isolation systems, and system identification. In addition, another successful International Symposium has been completed, with the Proceedings being printed at the time of writing. These activities continue current work under this Grant and extend previous work on magnetic suspension systems and devices in the Guidance and Control Branch and will permit the demonstration of several new developments in the field of magnetic suspension technology.

Galileo: Exploration of Jupiter's system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, T. V.; Yeates, C. M.; Colin, L.; Fanale, F. P.; Frank, L.; Hunten, D. M.

1985-01-01

The scientific objectives of the Galileo mission to the Jovian system is presented. Topics discussed include the history of the project, our current knowledge of the system, the objectives of interrelated experiments, mission design, spacecraft, and instruments. The management, scientists, and major contractors for the project are also given.

Heterogeneous distributed databases: A case study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, Tracy R.; Mukkamala, Ravi

1991-01-01

Alternatives are reviewed for accessing distributed heterogeneous databases and a recommended solution is proposed. The current study is limited to the Automated Information Systems Center at the Naval Sea Combat Systems Engineering Station at Norfolk, VA. This center maintains two databases located on Digital Equipment Corporation's VAX computers running under the VMS operating system. The first data base, ICMS, resides on a VAX11/780 and has been implemented using VAX DBMS, a CODASYL based system. The second database, CSA, resides on a VAX 6460 and has been implemented using the ORACLE relational database management system (RDBMS). Both databases are used for configuration management within the U.S. Navy. Different customer bases are supported by each database. ICMS tracks U.S. Navy ships and major systems (anti-sub, sonar, etc.). Even though the major systems on ships and submarines have totally different functions, some of the equipment within the major systems are common to both ships and submarines.

Smart health monitoring systems: an overview of design and modeling.

PubMed

Baig, Mirza Mansoor; Gholamhosseini, Hamid

2013-04-01

Health monitoring systems have rapidly evolved during the past two decades and have the potential to change the way health care is currently delivered. Although smart health monitoring systems automate patient monitoring tasks and, thereby improve the patient workflow management, their efficiency in clinical settings is still debatable. This paper presents a review of smart health monitoring systems and an overview of their design and modeling. Furthermore, a critical analysis of the efficiency, clinical acceptability, strategies and recommendations on improving current health monitoring systems will be presented. The main aim is to review current state of the art monitoring systems and to perform extensive and an in-depth analysis of the findings in the area of smart health monitoring systems. In order to achieve this, over fifty different monitoring systems have been selected, categorized, classified and compared. Finally, major advances in the system design level have been discussed, current issues facing health care providers, as well as the potential challenges to health monitoring field will be identified and compared to other similar systems.

Library Labor Cost Accounting System.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Du Bois, Dan

The Library Labor Cost Accounting System will provide visibility on current costs of manually processing library materials, at each campus as well as system-wide. The scope of the study includes the following: (1) 100 individual activities, grouped into 14 functional areas, e.g., Ordering, Receiving; and into 3 major operations: Acquisitions,…

Energy Systems Training Programs and Certifications Survey White Paper

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

Cox, Daryl; Nimbalkar, Sachin U.; Wenning, Thomas J.

2017-02-01

Compressed air system, industrial refrigeration system, chilled water system, pump system, fan system, steam system, process heating system, and combined heat and power system are the major industrial energy systems. By helping enhance knowledge and skills of workforce, training and certification programs on these systems are essential to improve energy efficiency of manufacturing facilities. A literature survey of currently available training and certification programs on these systems was conducted.

General Aviation in Nebraska: Nebraska SATS Project Background Paper No. 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Russell; Wachal, Jocelyn

2000-01-01

The Nebraska SATS project is a state-level component of NASA's Small Aircraft Transportation System (SATS). During the next several years the project will examine several different factors affecting SATS implementation in Nebraska. These include economic and taxation issues, public policy issues, airport planning processes, information dissemination strategies, and systemic change factors. This background paper profiles the general aviation system in Nebraska. It is written to provide information about the "context" within which SATS will be pursued. The primary focus is thus on describing and providing background information about the current situation. A secondary focus is on drawing general conclusions about the ability of the current system to incorporate the types of changes implied by SATS. First, some brief information on the U.S. aviation system is provided. The next two sections profile the current general aviation aircraft and pilot base. Nebraska's system of general aviation airports is then described. Within this section of the paper, information is provided on the different types of general aviation airports in Nebraska, airport activity levels and current infrastructure. The fourth major section of the background paper looks at Nebraska's local airport authorities. These special purpose local governments oversee the majority of the general aviation airports in the state. Among the items examined are total expenditures, capital expenditures and planning activities. Next, the paper provides background information on the Nebraska Department of Aeronautics (NDA) and recent Federal funding for general aviation in Nebraska. The final section presents summary conclusions.

Reforming Dutch substance abuse treatment services.

PubMed

Schippers, Gerard M; Schramade, Mark; Walburg, Jan A

2002-01-01

The Dutch substance abuse treatment system is in the middle of a major reorganization. The goal is to improve outcomes by redesigning all major primary treatment processes and by implementing a system of regular monitoring and feedback of clinical outcome data. The new program includes implementing standardized psychosocial behavior-oriented treatment modalities and a stepped-care patient placement algorithm in a core-shell organizational model. This article outlines the new program and presents its objectives, developmental stages, and current status.

Teaching Assessment for Teacher Human Capital Management: Learning from the Current State of the Art. WCER Working Paper No. 2011-2

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Milanowski, Anthony T.; Heneman, Herbert G., III; Kimball, Steven M.

2011-01-01

This paper reports on a study of the current state of the art in teaching assessment. The major goal of the study was to examine a sample of assessment systems and then develop a specification for a state-of the art performance assessment system to be used for human capital management functions. The authors hope was that this specification would…

A Novel Approach for Enhancing Lifelong Learning Systems by Using Hybrid Recommender System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kardan, Ahmad A.; Speily, Omid R. B.; Modaberi, Somayyeh

2011-01-01

The majority of current web-based learning systems are closed learning environments where courses and learning materials are fixed, and the only dynamic aspect is the organization of the material that can be adapted to allow a relatively individualized learning environment. In this paper, we propose an evolving web-based learning system which can…

Harvesting systems and costs for southern pine in the 1980s

Treesearch

Frederick W. Cubbage; James E. Granskog

1981-01-01

Timber harvesting systems and their costs are a major concern for the forest products industries. In this paper, harvest costs per cord are estimated, using computer simulation, for current southern pine harvesting systems. The estimations represent a range of mechanization levels. The sensitivity of systems to factors affecting harvest costs - machine costs, fuel...

System and method for generating current by selective minority species heating

DOEpatents

Fisch, Nathaniel J.

1983-01-01

A system for the generation of toroidal current in a plasma which is prepared in a toroidal magnetic field. The system utilizes the injection of low-frequency waves into the plasma by means of phased antenna arrays or phased waveguide arrays. The plasma is prepared with a minority ion species of different charge state and different gyrofrequency from the majority ion species. The wave frequency and wave phasing are chosen such that the wave energy is absorbed preferentially by minority species ions traveling in one toroidal direction. The absorption of energy in this manner produces a toroidal electric current even when the injected waves themselves do not have substantial toroidal momentum. This current can be continuously maintained at modest cost in power and may be used to confine the plasma. The system can operate efficiently on fusion grade tokamak plasmas.

TraitBank: An Open Digital Repository for Organism Traits

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

TraitBank currently serves over 11 million measurements and facts for more than 1.7 million taxa. These data are mobilized from major biodiversity information systems (e.g., International Union for Conservation of Nature, Ocean Biogeographic Information System, Paleobiology Database), literature sup...

Encouraging innovation.

PubMed

Hyman, Anthony A

2014-02-01

Innovation is central to the scientific endeavor, and yet the current system of funding in the United States discourages innovation, especially in the young. Subtle alterations to the funding system, guided in part by the success of the European Research Council, could have major effects on encouraging innovation.

US computer research networks: Current and future

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kratochvil, D.; Sood, D.; Verostko, A.

1989-01-01

During the last decade, NASA LeRC's Communication Program has conducted a series of telecommunications forecasting studies to project trends and requirements and to identify critical telecommunications technologies that must be developed to meet future requirements. The Government Networks Division of Contel Federal Systems has assisted NASA in these studies, and the current study builds upon these earlier efforts. The current major thrust of the NASA Communications Program is aimed at developing the high risk, advanced, communications satellite and terminal technologies required to significantly increase the capacity of future communications systems. Also, major new technological, economic, and social-political events and trends are now shaping the communications industry of the future. Therefore, a re-examination of future telecommunications needs and requirements is necessary to enable NASA to make management decisions in its Communications Program and to ensure the proper technologies and systems are addressed. This study, through a series of Task Orders, is helping NASA define the likely communication service needs and requirements of the future and thereby ensuring that the most appropriate technology developments are pursued.

DC current distribution mapping system of the solar panels using a HTS-SQUID gradiometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyazaki, Shingo; Kasuya, Syohei; Mawardi Saari, Mohd; Sakai, Kenji; Kiwa, Toshihiko; Tsukamoto, Akira; Adachi, Seiji; Tanabe, Keiichi; Tsukada, Keiji

2014-05-01

Solar panels are expected to play a major role as a source of sustainable energy. In order to evaluate solar panels, non-destructive tests, such as defect inspections and response property evaluations, are necessary. We developed a DC current distribution mapping system of the solar panels using a High Critical Temperature Superconductor Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (HTS-SQUID) gradiometer with ramp edge type Josephson junctions. Two independent components of the magnetic fields perpendicular to the panel surface (∂Bz/∂x, ∂Bz/∂y) were detected. The direct current of the solar panel is visualized by calculating the composition of the two signal components, the phase angle, and mapping the DC current vector. The developed system can evaluate the uniformity of DC current distributions precisely and may be applicable for defect detection of solar panels.

Toward a New Generation of Photonic Humidity Sensors

PubMed Central

Kolpakov, Stanislav A.; Gordon, Neil T.; Mou, Chengbo; Zhou, Kaiming

2014-01-01

This review offers new perspectives on the subject and highlights an area in need of further research. It includes an analysis of current scientific literature mainly covering the last decade and examines the trends in the development of electronic, acoustic and optical-fiber humidity sensors over this period. The major findings indicate that a new generation of sensor technology based on optical fibers is emerging. The current trends suggest that electronic humidity sensors could soon be replaced by sensors that are based on photonic structures. Recent scientific advances are expected to allow dedicated systems to avoid the relatively high price of interrogation modules that is currently a major disadvantage of fiber-based sensors. PMID:24577524

[Haiti, new immigrant community in Chile].

PubMed

Sánchez P, Katherin; Valderas J, Jaime; Messenger C, Karen; Sánchez G, Carolina; Barrera Q, Francisco

2018-04-01

Migration is a growing phenomenon in Latin America influenced by several factors such as economic stability, employment, social welfare, education and health system. Currently Chile has a positive migration flow rate. Particularly, a significant number of Haitian immigrants has been observed du ring the last years, especially after earthquake of 2010. These immigrants present a different cultural background expressed in relevant aspects of living including parenting and healthcare. Knowing the Haitian culture and its health situation is relevant for a better understanding of their health needs. Haitian people come to Chile looking for a cordial reception and willing to find a place with better perspectives of wellbeing in every sense. Immigration represents a major challenge for Chilean health system that must be embraced. Integration efforts in jobs, health, education system and community living should be enhanced to ensure a prosper settlement in our country. A new immigration law is crucial to solving major problems derived from current law created in 1975.

Human Hemato-Lymphoid System Mice: Current Use and Future Potential for Medicine

PubMed Central

Rongvaux, Anthony; Takizawa, Hitoshi; Strowig, Till; Willinger, Tim; Eynon, Elizabeth E.

2014-01-01

To directly study complex human hemato-lymphoid system physiology and respective system-associated diseases in vivo, human-to-mouse xenotransplantation models for human blood and blood-forming cells and organs have been developed over the past three decades. We here review the fundamental requirements and the remarkable progress made over the past few years in improving these systems, the current major achievements reached by use of these models, and the future challenges to more closely model and study human health and disease and to achieve predictive preclinical testing of both prevention measures and potential new therapies. PMID:23330956

Generalized Database Management System Support for Numeric Database Environments.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dominick, Wayne D.; Weathers, Peggy G.

1982-01-01

This overview of potential for utilizing database management systems (DBMS) within numeric database environments highlights: (1) major features, functions, and characteristics of DBMS; (2) applicability to numeric database environment needs and user needs; (3) current applications of DBMS technology; and (4) research-oriented and…

14-qubit entanglement: creation and coherence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barreiro, Julio

2011-05-01

We report the creation of multiparticle entangled states with up to 14 qubits. By investigating the coherence of up to 8 ions over time, we observe a decay proportional to the square of the number of qubits. The observed decay agrees with a theoretical model which assumes a system affected by correlated, Gaussian phase noise. This model holds for the majority of current experimental systems developed towards quantum computation and quantum metrology. We report the creation of multiparticle entangled states with up to 14 qubits. By investigating the coherence of up to 8 ions over time, we observe a decay proportional to the square of the number of qubits. The observed decay agrees with a theoretical model which assumes a system affected by correlated, Gaussian phase noise. This model holds for the majority of current experimental systems developed towards quantum computation and quantum metrology. Work done in collaboration with Thomas Monz, Philipp Schindler, Michael Chwalla, Daniel Nigg, William A. Coish, Maximilian Harlander, Wolfgang Haensel, Markus Hennrich, and Rainer Blatt.

Agency Construction and Navigation in Oral Narratives of English Learning by Chinese College English Majors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lin, Qiuming

2017-01-01

The current study aims to investigate the discursive construction and navigation of agency in oral narratives of English learning by Chinese college English majors. Based on the theoretical framework integrating Bamberg et. al.'s theory of identity dilemma and Hallidayan systemic functional linguistics, the study has addressed two research…

Preventing type 2 diabetes: Changing the food industry

PubMed Central

Popkin, Barry M.; Kenan, W. R.

2016-01-01

Improving our global diet by working with the food industry is a fairly complex task. Previously the global food manufacturing companies and governments were the major players. However, matters have shifted rapidly so that food retailers, food manufacturers, the restaurant–food service sector, and agribusinesses are now the major players. The current modern system of packaged processed food has now penetrated the globe—rich and poor, rural and urban are all in reach of this food system. Consequently, working with this complex sector when possible and an array of governmental regulatory large-scale options to improve our diet have increased in importance. Taxation of unhealthy foods and beverages, marketing controls, and front of the package labeling are the primary current options. Evaluations of the impacts of both public and industry initiatives are needed. PMID:27432072

Giant landslides and turbidity currents in the Agadir Canyon Region, NW-Africa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krastel, Sebastian; Wynn, Russell B.; Stevenson, Christopher; Feldens, Peter; Mehringer, Lisa; Schürer, Anke

2017-04-01

Coring and drilling of the Moroccan Turbidite System off NW-Africa revealed a long sequence of turbidites, mostly sourced from the Moroccan continental margin and the volcanic Canary Islands. The largest individual flow deposits in the Moroccan Turbidite System contain sediment volumes >100 km3, although these large-scale events are relatively infrequent with a recurrence interval of 10,000 years (over the last 200,000 years). The largest siliciclastic flow in the last 200,000 years was the 'Bed 5 event', which transported 160 km3 of sediment up to 2000 km from the Agadir Canyon region to the southwest Madeira Abyssal Plain. While the Moroccan Turbidite System is extremely well investigated, almost no data from the source region, i.e. the Agadir Canyon, are available. Understanding why some submarine landslides remain as coherent blocks of sediment throughout their passage downslope, while others mix and disintegrate almost immediately after initial failure, is a major scientific challenge, which was addressed in the Agadir Canyon source region during RV Maria S. Merian Cruise MSM32 in late 2013. A major landslide area was identified 200 km south of the Agadir Canyon. A landslide was traced from this failure area to the Agadir Canyon. This landslide entered the canyon in about 2500 m water depth. Despite a significant increase in slope angle, the landslide did not disintegrate into a turbidity current when entering the canyon but moved on as landslide for at least another 200 km down the canyon. The age of the landslide ( 145 ka) does not correspond to any major turbidte deposit in the Moroccan Turbidite System, further supporting the fact that the landslide did not disintegrate into a major turbidity current. A core taken about 350 m above the thalweg in the head region of Agadir Canyon shows a single coarse-grained turbidite, which resembles the composition of the Bed 5 event in the Madeira Abyssal Plain. Hence, the Bed 5 turbidite originated as a failure in the head region of the Agadir Canyon. Interestingly, this failure did not leave a major landslide scarp behind suggesting a small initial failure despite the large-volume deposits in the Madeira Abyssal Plain. The turbidity current must have eroded and incorporated huge amounts of sediments while traveling through the canyon.

Does NASA's Constellation Architecture Offer Opportunities to Achieve Multiple Additional Goals in Space?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thronson, Harley A.; Lester, Daniel F.

2008-01-01

Every major NASA human spaceflight program in the last four decades has been modified to achieve goals in space not incorporated within the original design goals: the Apollo Applications Program, Skylab, Space Shuttle, and International Space Station. Several groups in the US have been identifying major future science goals, the science facilities necessary to investigate them, as well as possible roles for augmented versions of elements of NASA's Constellation program. Specifically, teams in the astronomy community have been developing concepts for very capable missions to follow the James Webb Space Telescope that could take advantage of - or require - free-space operations by astronauts and/or robots. Taking as one example, the Single-Aperture Far-InfraRed (SAFIR) telescope with a approx.10+ m aperture proposed for operation in the 2020 timeframe. According to current NASA plans, the Ares V launch vehicle (or a variant) will be available about the same time, as will the capability to transport astronauts to the vicinity of the Moon via the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle and associated systems. [As the lunar surface offers no advantages - and major disadvantages - for most major optical systems, the expensive system for landing and operating on the lunar surface is not required.] Although as currently conceived, SAFIR and other astronomical missions will operate at the Sun-Earth L2 location, it appears trivial to travel for servicing to the more accessible Earth-Moon L1,2 locations. Moreover, as the recent Orbital Express and Automated Transfer Vehicle missions have demonstrated, future robotic capabilities should offer capabilities that would (remotely) extend human presence far beyond the vicinity of the Earth. In addition to multiplying the value of NASA's architecture for future human spaceflight to achieve the goals multiple major stakeholders, if humans one day travel beyond the Earth-Moon system - say, to Mars - technologies and capabilities for operating for long periods in free space must be developed. The engineering. management, and operational successes of the Space Station have demonstrated that international collaboration is possible. However, there is a danger that the hard-won lessons of current programs will be lost without continuing development of in-space operations. A program to achieve. for example, major astronomical goals in space using astronauts and robots will sustain international capabilities, produce highly visible achievements, and appeal to an additional broad community of stakeholders not currently involved with missions to the lunar surface.

Meeting the Challenge: Quality Systems in Private Higher Education in Kuwait

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Al-Atiqi, Imad M.; Alharbi, Lafi M.

2009-01-01

In Kuwait, as in other rapidly-developing higher education systems, one major area of concern is ensuring the quality of education offered by private providers. This paper briefly reviews the history of the development of higher education in Kuwait since its inception in 1936. It considers various quality systems currently in place in other…

Genetic diversity of root system architecture in response to drought stress in grain legumes.

PubMed

Ye, Heng; Roorkiwal, Manish; Valliyodan, Babu; Zhou, Lijuan; Chen, Pengyin; Varshney, Rajeev K; Nguyen, Henry T

2018-06-06

Climate change has increased the occurrence of extreme weather patterns globally, causing significant reductions in crop production, and hence threatening food security. In order to meet the food demand of the growing world population, a faster rate of genetic gains leading to productivity enhancement for major crops is required. Grain legumes are an essential commodity in optimal human diets and animal feed because of their unique nutritional composition. Currently, limited water is a major constraint in grain legume production. Root system architecture (RSA) is an important developmental and agronomic trait, which plays vital roles in plant adaptation and productivity under water-limited environments. A deep and proliferative root system helps extract sufficient water and nutrients under these stress conditions. The integrated genetics and genomics approach to dissect molecular processes from genome to phenome is key to achieve increased water capture and use efficiency through developing better root systems. Success in crop improvement under drought depends on discovery and utilization of genetic variations existing in the germplasm. In this review, we summarize current progress in the genetic diversity in major legume crops, quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with RSA, and the importance and applications of recent discoveries associated with the beneficial root traits towards better RSA for enhanced drought tolerance and yield.

An analysis of the medical specialty training system in Spain.

PubMed

Freire, José-Manuel; Infante, Alberto; de Aguiar, Adriana Cavalcanti; Carbajo, Pilar

2015-06-02

In this paper, we analyse the medical specialty training system in Spain (the so-called "residency system"). In order to do so, we a) summarize its historical evolution; b) describe the five major architectural pillars on which the system is currently based; c) analyse the special contract of the specialist-in-training; d) discuss the three major challenges for the medical specialist training future: the evolution and expansion of the residency system to other health professions, the issue of grouping specialties with a common core trunk and the continuity of the learning process; and e) draw four conclusions that may be relevant for those who are in the process of developing or revising their own medical specialization systems.

Numerical simulation of large-scale field-aligned current generation from finite-amplitude magnetosonic waves

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yamauchi, M.

1994-01-01

A two-dimensional numerical simulation of finite-amplitude magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) magnetosonic waves is performed under a finite-velocity background convection condition. Isothermal cases are considered for simplicity. External dissipation is introduced by assuming that the field-aligned currents are generated in proportion to the accumulated charges. The simulation results are as follows: Paired field-aligned currents are found from the simulated waves. The flow directions of these field-aligned currents depend on the angle between the background convection and the wave normal, and hence two pairs of field-aligned currents are found from a bowed wave if we look at the overall structure. The majority of these field-aligned currents are closed within each pair rather than between two wings. These features are not observed under slow background convection. The result could be applied to the cusp current system and the substorm current system.

Recent and active tectonics of the external zone of the Northern Apennines (Italy)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boccaletti, Mario; Corti, Giacomo; Martelli, Luca

2011-08-01

We present a comprehensive study of the recent and active tectonics of the external part of the Northern Apennines (Italy) by using morphotectonic, geological-structural, and stratigraphic analysis, compared with the current seismicity of the region. This analysis suggests that the external part of the Northern Apennines is characterised by presence of three major systems of Quaternary compressive structures corresponding to (1) the Apenninic watershed, (2) the Apennines-Po Plain margin (pede-Apenninic thrust front), and (3) the Emilia, Ferrara, and Adriatic Fold systems buried below the Po Plain. Geological data and interpreted seismic sections indicate a roughly N-S Quaternary deformation direction, with rates <2.5 mm/year. The shortening decreased since the Pliocene, when our data indicate compression in a NNW-SSE direction and rates up to 7 mm/year. The trend and kinematics of the structures affecting the Apennines-Po Plain margin and the Po Plain subsoil fit well the pattern of the current seismicity of the area, as well as recent GPS and geodetic levelling data, pointing to a current activity of these thrust systems controlled by an overall compressive stress field. Close to the Apenninic watershed, earthquake focal mechanisms indicate that shallow extension is associated to deep compression. The extensional events may be related to a secondary extensional stress field developing on the hangingwall of the thrust system affecting the Apenninic watershed; alternatively, this thrust system may have been recently deactivated and overprinted by active normal faulting. Deeper compressive events are related to the activity of both a major basement thrust that connects at surface with the pede-Apenninic thrust front and a major Moho structure.

Ichthyoplankton gut analysis with relevance to prey availability in the waters of Lamon Bay, northeastern Luzon, Philippines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bollozos, I.; Yniguez, A. T.; Palermo, J. H.; Cabrera, O. C.; Villanoy, C. L.

2013-12-01

The waters in the eastern part of Luzon are highly influenced by the western boundary current system of the western Pacific brought about by the bifurcation of the North Equatorial Current into the Kuroshio and Mindanao Current. Eddies are formed with varying intensities as an effect of the ENSO cycle. Three spatial zones were identified according to prominent current movements and circulations observed during the summer 2011 and 2012 oceanographic cruises. These events also affect the productivity in the surrounding waters. Plankton samples were collected to determine the relative abundances of major groups representing three trophic levels. The abundance and composition of phyto- and zooplankton major groups slightly varied among the zones. Gut analysis of fish larvae was then conducted to determine potential prey preference and linked to the phyto- and zooplankton densities.

Recent advances and current status of the use of heat treatments in postharvest disease management systems: Is it time to turn up the heat

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Eco-friendly approaches to postharvest disease management in harvested commodities, such as heat treatments and biological control utilizing antagonistic yeasts, is an active research field. The current review focuses on the physiological and molecular aspects of heat treatment on all the major par...

Truck Noise VIB : A Baseline Study of the Parameters Affecting Diesel Engine Intake and Exhaust Silencer Design

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1974-01-01

A survey of diesel engine, truck, intake system, and exhaust system manufacturers was made for the purpose of compiling detailed information on all major mass-produced diesel engines currently used in the United States for trucks and buses, and on ex...

Score Reporting for the 1991 Medical College Admission Test.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mitchell, Karen J.; Haynes, Robert

1990-01-01

Data used in a major review of the system for reporting scores on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) are presented and discussed. The data demonstrated the value of the current score-reporting system and led to retention of the 15-point MCAT score scale in 1991. (Author/MSE)

Ethnicity in the American University System.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Claerbaut, David

This paper examines the current state of ethnicity in the American university system, using the sociological paradigms applicable to majority-minority relations in its analysis. The English scholasticist-elite concept from which the American concept of higher education grew, focuses on white middle class cultural interests, and arises out of a…

Implementing Global Science Literacy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mayer, Victor J., Ed.

This book expands on the argument for a new type of science curriculum for secondary schools. Instead of being based on each of the major disciplines as are almost all current science curricula, it is suggested that curricula should be conceptually organized around the Earth system, including the science methodology of the system sciences, and…

Drug Abuse Awareness System (DACAS), Volume 1 Number 5.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Inst. on Drug Abuse (DHEW/PHS), Rockville, MD. National Clearinghouse for Drug Abuse Information.

The Drug Abuse Current Awareness System (DACAS) is a comprehensive biweekly listing of citations of the recent drug abuse literature, derived from scanning the major publications media in the area, including scientific and technical journals, popular magazines, underground newspapers, books, legal journals, and government project reports. The…

Improving Education Outcomes for African American Youth: Issues for Consideration and Discussion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Center for Law and Social Policy, Inc. (CLASP), 2014

2014-01-01

The current state of low academic achievement among a large majority of African American students is complex. While the U.S. has long professed that a world-class education is the right of every child, there are still major inequities in the education system that leave African American children with fewer opportunities to receive a quality…

Challenges in Leadership in Vocational Education. National EPD Leadership Development Seminar Proceedings (Atlantic City, New Jersey, December 2, 1977). Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bottoms, Gene; And Others

Current delivery systems for vocational education and their implications for the future is the topic of presentations included in this report of an EPDA (Educational Professions Development Act) leadership development seminar. Major contents are an evaluation summary, texts of the three major speeches, and outlines of afternoon interaction…

Current developments in the French engineering education system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemaître, Denis

2017-03-01

The French engineering education system has been established in quite a different way from others in Europe, such as the German and British systems, for instance. Due to both the whole state system and the private initiatives during the industrial revolution, the engineering education system today is composed of a large number (nearly 200) of rather small and specialised institutions, which have historically mostly developed outside universities. In the last decades, this system has had to face a powerful internationalisation movement. This has had major consequences on the curricula design, regarding foreign language teaching, international exchanges, and links with research. Currently, the French engineering education system is facing new challenges, regarding innovation and environmental and social issues, in a very competitive higher education context.

Development of Tunneling Spectroscopy Apparatus for Kelvin and Sub-Kelvin Measurements of Superconducting Energy Gaps by Multi-disciplinary students at a Liberal Arts University

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eckhardt, Matt

2014-03-01

Tunneling spectroscopy is an important technique used to measure the superconducting energy gap, a feature that is at the heart of the nature of superconductivity in various materials. In this presentation, we report the progress and results in developing high-resolution tunneling spectroscopy experimental platforms in a helium three cryostat, a 3 Kelvin cryocooler and a helium dip-tester. The experimental team working in a liberal arts university is a multi-disciplinary group consisting of one physics major, chemisty majors and a biology major. Students including non-physics majors learned and implemented current-voltage measurement techniques, vacuum system engineering, built electronic boxes and amplifier circuits from scratch, built custom multi-conductor cables for thermometry and current-voltage measurements, and performed conductance measurements. We report preliminary results. Acknowledgments: We acknowledge support from National Science Foundation Grant # DMR-1206561.

MHD-EMP protection guidelines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barnes, P. R.; Vance, E. F.

A nuclear detonation at altitudes several hundred kilometers above the earth will severely distort the earth's magnetic field and result in a strong magnetohydrodynamic electromagnetic pulse (MHD-EMP). The geomagnetic disturbance interacts with the soil to induce current and horizontal electric gradients. MHD-EMP, also called E3 since it is the third component of the high-altitude EMP (HEMP), lasts over 100 s after an exoatmospheric burst. MHD-EMP is similar to solar geomagnetic storms in it's global and low frequency (less than 1 Hz) nature except that E3 can be much more intense with a far shorter duration. When the MHD-EMP gradients are integrated over great distances by power lines, communication cables, or other long conductors, the induced voltages are significant. (The horizontal gradients in the soil are too small to induce major responses by local interactions with facilities.) The long pulse waveform for MHD-EMP-induced currents on long lines has a peak current of 200 A and a time-to-half-peak of 100 s. If this current flows through transformer windings, it can saturate the magnetic circuit and cause 60 Hz harmonic production. To mitigate the effects of MHD-EMP on a facility, long conductors must be isolated from the building and the commercial power harmonics and voltage swings must be addressed. The transfer switch would be expected to respond to the voltage fluctuations as long as the harmonics have not interfered with the switch control circuitry. The major sources of MHD-EMP induced currents are the commercial power lines and neutral; neutral current indirect coupling to the facility power or ground system via the metal fence, powered gate, parking lights, etc; metal water pipes; phone lines; and other long conductors that enter or come near the facility. The major source of harmonics is the commercial power system.

Lesson Plan on Comparative Political Systems: Compare and Contrast the Presidential Election System of the USA to the Parliamentary Election System of Hungary.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

O'Connell, Daniel W.

This lesson describes the current government of Hungary and its underlying political and electoral systems. The lesson is structured with: (1) background on the parliamentary model of government, political parties, and Hungary's unique electoral system; (2) a summary of the six major political parties in Hungary and voter information for the 1990…

Proceedings of the Mobile Satellite Conference

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rafferty, William

1988-01-01

A satellite-based mobile communications system provides voice and data communications to mobile users over a vast geographic area. The technical and service characteristics of mobile satellite systems (MSSs) are presented and form an in-depth view of the current MSS status at the system and subsystem levels. Major emphasis is placed on developments, current and future, in the following critical MSS technology areas: vehicle antennas, networking, modulation and coding, speech compression, channel characterization, space segment technology and MSS experiments. Also, the mobile satellite communications needs of government agencies are addressed, as is the MSS potential to fulfill them.

Development of a current collection loss management system for SDI homopolar power supplies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brown, D. W.

1991-04-01

High speed, high power density current collection systems have been identified as an enabling technology required to construct homopolar power supplies to meet SDI missions. This work is part of a three-year effort directed towards the analysis, experimental verification, and prototype construction of a current collection system designed to operate continuously at 2 kA/sq cm, at a rubbing speed of 200 m/s, and with acceptable losses in a space environment. To date, no system has achieved these conditions simultaneously. This is the final report covering the three year period of performance on DOE contract AC03-86SF-16518. Major areas covered include design, construction and operation of a cryogenically cooled brush test rig, design and construction of a high speed brush test rig, optimization study for homopolar machines, loss analysis of the current collection system, and an application study which defines the air-core homopolar construction necessary to achieve the goal of 80 kW/kg generator power density.

Influence of a new generation of operations support systems on current spacecraft operations philosophy: The users feedback

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Darroy, Jean Michel

1993-01-01

Current trends in the spacecraft mission operations area (spacecraft & mission complexity, project duration, required flexibility are requiring a breakthrough for what concerns philosophy, organization, and support tools. A major evolution is related to space operations 'informationalization', i.e adding to existing operations support & data processing systems a new generation of tools based on advanced information technologies (object-oriented programming, artificial intelligence, data bases, hypertext) that automate, at least partially, operations tasks that used be performed manually (mission & project planning/scheduling, operations procedures elaboration & execution, data analysis & failure diagnosis). All the major facets of this 'informationalization' are addressed at MATRA MARCONI SPACE, operational applications were fielded and generic products are becoming available. These various applications have generated a significant feedback from the users (at ESA, CNES, ARIANESPACE, MATRA MARCONI SPACE), which is now allowing us to precisely measure how the deployment of this new generation of tools, that we called OPSWARE, can 'reengineer' current spacecraft mission operations philosophy, how it can make space operations faster, better, and cheaper. This paper can be considered as an update of the keynote address 'Knowledge-Based Systems for Spacecraft Control' presented during the first 'Ground Data Systems for Spacecraft Control' conference in Darmstadt, June 1990, with a special emphasis on these last two years users feedback.

Preventing type 2 diabetes: Changing the food industry.

PubMed

Popkin, Barry M; Kenan, W R

2016-06-01

Improving our global diet by working with the food industry is a fairly complex task. Previously the global food manufacturing companies and governments were the major players. However, matters have shifted rapidly so that food retailers, food manufacturers, the restaurant-food service sector, and agribusinesses are now the major players. The current modern system of packaged processed food has now penetrated the globe-rich and poor, rural and urban are all in reach of this food system. Consequently, working with this complex sector when possible and an array of governmental regulatory large-scale options to improve our diet have increased in importance. Taxation of unhealthy foods and beverages, marketing controls, and front of the package labeling are the primary current options. Evaluations of the impacts of both public and industry initiatives are needed. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microprocessor control and networking for the amps breadboard

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Floyd, Stephen A.

1987-01-01

Future space missions will require more sophisticated power systems, implying higher costs and more extensive crew and ground support involvement. To decrease this human involvement, as well as to protect and most efficiently utilize this important resource, NASA has undertaken major efforts to promote progress in the design and development of autonomously managed power systems. Two areas being actively pursued are autonomous power system (APS) breadboards and knowledge-based expert system (KBES) applications. The former are viewed as a requirement for the timely development of the latter. Not only will they serve as final testbeds for the various KBES applications, but will play a major role in the knowledge engineering phase of their development. The current power system breadboard designs are of a distributed microprocessor nature. The distributed nature, plus the need to connect various external computer capabilities (i.e., conventional host computers and symbolic processors), places major emphasis on effective networking. The communications and networking technologies for the first power system breadboard/test facility are described.

Development of Intent Information Changes to Revised Minimum Aviation System Performance Standards for Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (RTCA/DO-242A)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barhydt, Richard; Warren, Anthony W.

2002-01-01

RTCA Special Committee 186 has recently adopted a series of changes to the original Minimum Aviation System Performance Standards (MASPS) for Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B). The new document will be published as DO-242A. Major changes to the MASPS include a significant restructuring and expansion of the intent parameters for future ADS-B systems. ADS-B provides a means for aircraft to exchange information about their intended trajectories with each other and with ground systems. NASA and Boeing have played significant roles in recommending these changes and providing supporting analysis. The intent changes are anticipated to provide substantial benefits to several programs and operational concepts under development by the two organizations. Major changes include the addition of Target State reports and the replacement of Trajectory Change Point reports with Trajectory Change reports. These changes have been designed to better reflect the capabilities of existing and future aircraft avionics, while providing benefits to current and proposed applications. DO-242A implements intent information elements that can be supported by current avionics systems and data buses. Provisions are made for future incorporation of other intent elements, as needed to meet operational requirements. This document summarizes the reasons for the DO-242A intent changes and provides a detailed overview of current and future intended ADS-B MASPS changes related to aircraft intent.

Practical aspects of the use of three-phase alternating current electric machines in electricity storage system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciucur, Violeta

2015-02-01

Of three-phase alternating current electric machines, it brings into question which of them is more advantageous to be used in electrical energy storage system by pumping water. The two major categories among which are given dispute are synchronous and the asynchronous machine. To consider the synchronous machine with permanent magnet configuration because it brings advantages compared with conventional synchronous machine, first by removing the necessary additional excitation winding. From the point of view of loss of the two types of machines, the optimal adjustment of the magnetic flux density is obtained to minimize the copper loss by hysteresis and eddy currents.

CHANGING OUR DIAGNOSTIC PARADIGM: MOVEMENT SYSTEM DIAGNOSTIC CLASSIFICATION

PubMed Central

Kamonseki, Danilo H.; Staker, Justin L.; Lawrence, Rebekah L.; Braman, Jonathan P.

2017-01-01

Proper diagnosis is a first step in applying best available treatments, and prognosticating outcomes for clients. Currently, the majority of musculoskeletal diagnoses are classified according to pathoanatomy. However, the majority of physical therapy treatments are applied toward movement system impairments or pain. While advocated within the physical therapy profession for over thirty years, diagnostic classification within a movement system framework has not been uniformly developed or adopted. We propose a basic framework and rationale for application of a movement system diagnostic classification for atraumatic shoulder pain conditions, as a case for the broader development of movement system diagnostic labels. Shifting our diagnostic paradigm has potential to enhance communication, improve educational efficiency, facilitate research, directly link to function, improve clinical care, and accelerate preventive interventions. PMID:29158950

Extension to the dynamic modeling of the large angle magnetic suspension test fixture. M.S. Thesis - Old Dominion Univ., May 1995 Progress Report, 1 Nov. 1994 - 30 Apr. 1995

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foster, Lucas E.; Britcher, Colin P.

1995-01-01

The Large Angle Magnetic Suspension Test Fixture (LAMSTF) is a laboratory scale proof-of-concept system. The configuration is unique in that the electromagnets are mounted in a circular planar array. A mathematical model of the system had previously been developed, but was shown to have inaccuracies. These inaccuracies showed up in the step responses. Eddy currents were found to be the major cause of the modeling errors. In the original system, eddy currents existed in the aluminum baseplate, iron cores, and the sensor support frame. An attempt to include the eddy current dynamics in the system model is presented. The dynamics of a dummy sensor ring were added to the system. Adding the eddy current dynamics to the simulation improves the way it compares to the actual experiment. Also presented is a new method of determining the yaw angle of the suspended element. From the coil currents the yaw angle can be determined and the controller can be updated to suspend at the new current. This method has been used to demonstrate a 360 degree yaw angle rotation.

The 20 kilovolt rocket borne electron accelerator. [equipment specifications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harrison, R.

1973-01-01

The accelerator system is a preprogrammed multi-voltage system capable of operating at a current level of 1/2 ampere at the 20 kilovolt level. The five major functional areas which comprise this system are: (1) Silver zinc battery packs; (2) the electron gun assembly; (3) gun control and opening circuits; (4) the telemetry conditioning section; and (5) the power conversion section.

AIAA/NASA International Symposium on Space Information Systems, 2nd, Pasadena, CA, Sept. 17-19, 1990, Proceedings. Vols. 1 & 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tavenner, Leslie A. (Editor)

1991-01-01

These proceedings overview major space information system projects and lessons learned from current missions. Other topics include the science information system requirements for the 1990s, an information systems design approach for major programs, the technology needs and projections, the standards for space data information systems, the artificial intelligence technology and applications, international interoperability, and spacecraft data systems and architectures advanced communications. Other topics include the software engineering technology and applications, the multimission multidiscipline information system architectures, the distributed planning and scheduling systems and operations, and the computer and information systems architectures. Paper presented include prospects for scientific data analysis systems for solar-terrestrial physics in the 1990s, the Columbus data management system, data storage technologies for the future, the German aerospace research establishment, and launching artificial intelligence in NASA ground systems.

Will integrated surveillance systems for vectors and vector-borne diseases be the future of controlling vector-borne diseases? A practical example from China.

PubMed

Wu, Y; Ling, F; Hou, J; Guo, S; Wang, J; Gong, Z

2016-07-01

Vector-borne diseases are one of the world's major public health threats and annually responsible for 30-50% of deaths reported to the national notifiable disease system in China. To control vector-borne diseases, a unified, effective and economic surveillance system is urgently needed; all of the current surveillance systems in China waste resources and/or information. Here, we review some current surveillance systems and present a concept for an integrated surveillance system combining existing vector and vector-borne disease monitoring systems. The integrated surveillance system has been tested in pilot programmes in China and led to a 21·6% cost saving in rodent-borne disease surveillance. We share some experiences gained from these programmes.

DGs for Service Restoration to Critical Loads in a Secondary Network

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

Xu, Yin; Liu, Chen-Ching; Wang, Zhiwen

During a major outage in a secondary network distribution system, distributed generators (DGs) connected to the primary feeders as well as the secondary network can be used to serve critical loads. This paper proposed a resilience-oriented method to determine restoration strategies for secondary network distribution systems after a major disaster. Technical issues associated with the restoration process are analyzed, including the operation of network protectors, inrush currents caused by the energization of network transformers, synchronization of DGs to the network, and circulating currents among DGs. A look-ahead load restoration framework is proposed, incorporating technical issues associated with secondary networks, limitsmore » on DG capacity and generation resources, dynamic constraints, and operational limits. The entire outage duration is divided into a sequence of periods. Restoration strategies can be adjusted at the beginning of each period using the latest information. Finally, numerical simulation of the modified IEEE 342-node low voltage networked test system is performed to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.« less

The Weathering of Antarctic Meteorites: Climatic Controls on Weathering Rates and Implications for Meteorite Accumulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Benoit, P. H.; Akridge, J. M. C.; Sears, D. W. G.; Bland, P. A.

1995-01-01

Weathering of meteorites includes a variety of chemical and mineralogical changes, including conversion of metal to iron oxides, or rust. Other changes include the devitrification of glass, especially in fusion crust. On a longer time scale, major minerals such as olivine, pyroxene, and feldspar are partially or wholly converted to various phyllosilicates. The degree of weathering of meteorite finds is often noted using a qualitative system based on visual inspection of hand specimens. Several quantitative weathering classification systems have been proposed or are currently under development. Wlotzka has proposed a classification system based on mineralogical changes observed in polished sections and Mossbauer properties of meteorite powders have also been used. In the current paper, we discuss induced thermoluminescence (TL) as an indicator of degree of weathering of individual meteorites. The quantitative measures of weathering, including induced TL, suffer from one major flaw, namely that their results only apply to small portions of the meteorite.

DGs for Service Restoration to Critical Loads in a Secondary Network

DOE PAGES

Xu, Yin; Liu, Chen-Ching; Wang, Zhiwen; ...

2017-08-25

During a major outage in a secondary network distribution system, distributed generators (DGs) connected to the primary feeders as well as the secondary network can be used to serve critical loads. This paper proposed a resilience-oriented method to determine restoration strategies for secondary network distribution systems after a major disaster. Technical issues associated with the restoration process are analyzed, including the operation of network protectors, inrush currents caused by the energization of network transformers, synchronization of DGs to the network, and circulating currents among DGs. A look-ahead load restoration framework is proposed, incorporating technical issues associated with secondary networks, limitsmore » on DG capacity and generation resources, dynamic constraints, and operational limits. The entire outage duration is divided into a sequence of periods. Restoration strategies can be adjusted at the beginning of each period using the latest information. Finally, numerical simulation of the modified IEEE 342-node low voltage networked test system is performed to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.« less

Food Consumption and its impact on Cardiovascular Disease: Importance of Solutions focused on the globalized food system

PubMed Central

Anand, Sonia S.; Hawkes, Corinna; de Souza, Russell J.; Mente, Andrew; Dehghan, Mahshid; Nugent, Rachel; Zulyniak, Michael A.; Weis, Tony; Bernstein, Adam M.; Krauss, Ronald; Kromhout, Daan; Jenkins, David J.A.; Malik, Vasanti; Martinez-Gonzalez, Miguel A.; Mozafarrian, Dariush; Yusuf, Salim; Willett, Walter C.; Popkin, Barry M

2015-01-01

Major scholars in the field, based on a 3-day consensus, created an in-depth review of current knowledge on the role of diet in CVD, the changing global food system and global dietary patterns, and potential policy solutions. Evidence from different countries, age/race/ethnicity/socioeconomic groups suggest the health effects studies of foods, macronutrients, and dietary patterns on CVD appear to be far more consistent though regional knowledge gaps are highlighted. There are large gaps in knowledge about the association of macronutrients to CVD in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), particularly linked with dietary patterns are reviewed. Our understanding of foods and macronutrients in relationship to CVD is broadly clear; however major gaps exist both in dietary pattern research and ways to change diets and food systems. Based on the current evidence, the traditional Mediterranean-type diet, including plant foods/emphasizing plant protein sources, provides a well-tested healthy dietary pattern to reduce CVD. PMID:26429085

How Non-Linearity and Grade-Level Differences Complicate the Validation of Observation Protocols

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lazarev, Valeriy; Newman, Denis

2013-01-01

Teacher evaluation is currently a major policy issue at all levels of the K-12 system driven in large part by current US Department of Education requirements. The main objective of this study is to explore the patterns of relationship between observational scores and value-added measures of teacher performance in math classrooms and the variation…

High Frequency Radar Observations of Tidal Current Variability in the Lower Chesapeake Bay

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Updyke, T. G.; Dusek, G.; Atkinson, L. P.

2016-02-01

Analysis of eight years of high frequency radar surface current observations in the lower Chesapeake Bay is presented with a focus on the variability of the tidal component of the surface circulation which accounts for a majority of the variance of the surface flow (typically 70-80% for the middle of the radar footprint). Variations in amplitude and phase of the major tidal constituents are examined in the context of water level, wind and river discharge data. Comparisons are made with harmonic analysis results from long-term records of current data measured by three current profilers operated by NOAA as part of the Chesapeake Bay Physical Oceanographic Real-Time System (PORTS). Preliminary results indicate that there is significant spatial variability in the M2 amplitude over the HF radar grid as well as temporal variability when harmonic analysis is performed using bi-monthly time segments over the course of the record.

The Multiple Gyrotron System on the DIII-D Tokamak

DOE PAGES

Lohr, J.; Anderson, J.; Brambila, R.; ...

2015-08-28

A major component of the versatile heating systems on the DIII-D tokamak is the gyrotron complex. This system routinely operates at 110 GHz with 4.7 MW generated rf power for electron cyclotron heating and current drive. The complex is being upgraded with the addition of new depressed collector potential gyrotrons operating at 117.5 GHz and generating rf power in excess of 1.0 MW each. The long term upgrade plan calls for 10 gyrotrons at the higher frequency being phased in as resources permit, for an injected power near 10 MW. This article presents a summary of the current status ofmore » the DIII-D gyrotron complex, its performance, individual components, testing procedures, operational parameters, plans, and a brief summary of the experiments for which the system is currently being used.« less

Major New Issues Currently Affecting Government Acquisition.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-06-01

Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the Competition in Contracting Act (CICA) of 1984, Thybony, Inc., 1985. 5. Brechtel, Donald L., Brost , Edward J. and...of Government Contracts, The George Washington Univer- sity, 1986. 3. White, Kevin L., Issues in Navy Management of Major Weapon Systems Warranties...L. Thesis, The National Law Center of George Washington University, Washington, D.C.. February 1982. 2. Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), 1984

Lupus nephritis: current update

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Lupus nephritis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. The general consensus is that 60% of lupus patients will develop clinically relevant nephritis at some time in the course of their illness. Prompt recognition and treatment of renal disease is important, as early response to therapy is correlated with better outcome. The present review summarizes our current understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying lupus nephritis and how the disease is currently diagnosed and treated. PMID:22078716

Development of a coupled expert system for the spacecraft attitude control problem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kawamura, K.; Beale, G.; Schaffer, J.; Hsieh, B.-J.; Padalkar, S.; Rodriguezmoscoso, J.; Vinz, F.; Fernandez, K.

1987-01-01

A majority of the current expert systems focus on the symbolic-oriented logic and inference mechanisms of artificial intelligence (AI). Common rule-based systems employ empirical associations and are not well suited to deal with problems often arising in engineering. Described is a prototype expert system which combines both symbolic and numeric computing. The expert system's configuration is presented and its application to a spacecraft attitude control problem is discussed.

Climate change predicted to negatively influence surface soil health of dryland cropping systems in the Inland Pacific Northwest

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Soil organic matter (SOM) is a key indicator of agricultural productivity and overall soil health. Currently, dryland cropping systems of the inland Pacific Northwest (iPNW) span a large gradient in mean annual temperature (MAT) and precipitation (MAP). These climatic drivers are major determinants ...

Power Extension Package (PEP) system definition extension, orbital service module systems analysis study. Volume 11: PEP, cost, schedules, and work breakdown structure dictionary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

Cost scheduling and funding data are presented for the reference design of the power extension package. Major schedule milestones are correlated with current Spacelab flight dates. Funding distributions provide for minimum expenditure during the first year of the project.

An assessment of advanced displays and controls technology applicable to future space transportation systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hatfield, Jack J.; Villarreal, Diana

1990-01-01

The topic of advanced display and control technology is addressed along with the major objectives of this technology, the current state of the art, major accomplishments, research programs and facilities, future trends, technology issues, space transportation systems applications and projected technology readiness for those applications. The holes that may exist between the technology needs of the transportation systems versus the research that is currently under way are addressed, and cultural changes that might facilitate the incorporation of these advanced technologies into future space transportation systems are recommended. Some of the objectives are to reduce life cycle costs, improve reliability and fault tolerance, use of standards for the incorporation of advancing technology, and reduction of weight, volume and power. Pilot workload can be reduced and the pilot's situational awareness can be improved, which would result in improved flight safety and operating efficiency. This could be accomplished through the use of integrated, electronic pictorial displays, consolidated controls, artificial intelligence, and human centered automation tools. The Orbiter Glass Cockpit Display is an example examined.

Comparison of electronic health record system functionalities to support the patient recruitment process in clinical trials.

PubMed

Schreiweis, Björn; Trinczek, Benjamin; Köpcke, Felix; Leusch, Thomas; Majeed, Raphael W; Wenk, Joachim; Bergh, Björn; Ohmann, Christian; Röhrig, Rainer; Dugas, Martin; Prokosch, Hans-Ulrich

2014-11-01

Reusing data from electronic health records for clinical and translational research and especially for patient recruitment has been tackled in a broader manner since about a decade. Most projects found in the literature however focus on standalone systems and proprietary implementations at one particular institution often for only one singular trial and no generic evaluation of EHR systems for their applicability to support the patient recruitment process does yet exist. Thus we sought to assess whether the current generation of EHR systems in Germany provides modules/tools, which can readily be applied for IT-supported patient recruitment scenarios. We first analysed the EHR portfolio implemented at German University Hospitals and then selected 5 sites with five different EHR implementations covering all major commercial systems applied in German University Hospitals. Further, major functionalities required for patient recruitment support have been defined and the five sample EHRs and their standard tools have been compared to the major functionalities. In our analysis of the site's hospital information system environments (with four commercial EHR systems and one self-developed system) we found that - even though no dedicated module for patient recruitment has been provided - most EHR products comprise generic tools such as workflow engines, querying capabilities, report generators and direct SQL-based database access which can be applied as query modules, screening lists and notification components for patient recruitment support. A major limitation of all current EHR products however is that they provide no dedicated data structures and functionalities for implementing and maintaining a local trial registry. At the five sites with standard EHR tools the typical functionalities of the patient recruitment process could be mostly implemented. However, no EHR component is yet directly dedicated to support research requirements such as patient recruitment. We recommend for future developments that EHR customers and vendors focus much more on the provision of dedicated patient recruitment modules. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Patient assessment systems using the World Wide Web.

PubMed

Kohane, I S

1997-02-01

Of the major issues in developing a Web patient assessment system, I have emphasized two main points. First, the World Wide Web can provide substantial leverage in the development of online patient assessment systems. Second, although the existence of Internet technologies does not alter the need to resolve issues that preceded their arrival, current trends suggest that in the home and the office, patient assessment systems will increasingly employ Internet technologies.

The Role of Gammaherpesviruses in Cancer Pathogenesis

PubMed Central

Jha, Hem Chandra; Banerjee, Shuvomoy; Robertson, Erle S.

2016-01-01

Worldwide, one fifth of cancers in the population are associated with viral infections. Among them, gammaherpesvirus, specifically HHV4 (EBV) and HHV8 (KSHV), are two oncogenic viral agents associated with a large number of human malignancies. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms related to EBV and KSHV infection and their ability to induce cellular transformation. We describe their strategies for manipulating major cellular systems through the utilization of cell cycle, apoptosis, immune modulation, epigenetic modification, and altered signal transduction pathways, including NF-kB, Notch, Wnt, MAPK, TLR, etc. We also discuss the important EBV latent antigens, namely EBNA1, EBNA2, EBNA3’s and LMP’s, which are important for targeting these major cellular pathways. KSHV infection progresses through the engagement of the activities of the major latent proteins LANA, v-FLIP and v-Cyclin, and the lytic replication and transcription activator (RTA). This review is a current, comprehensive approach that describes an in-depth understanding of gammaherpes viral encoded gene manipulation of the host system through targeting important biological processes in viral-associated cancers. PMID:26861404

The value of information as applied to the Landsat Follow-on benefit-cost analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wood, D. B.

1978-01-01

An econometric model was run to compare the current forecasting system with a hypothetical (Landsat Follow-on) space-based system. The baseline current system was a hybrid of USDA SRS domestic forecasts and the best known foreign data. The space-based system improved upon the present Landsat by the higher spatial resolution capability of the thematic mapper. This satellite system is a major improvement for foreign forecasts but no better than SRS for domestic forecasts. The benefit analysis was concentrated on the use of Landsat Follow-on to forecast world wheat production. Results showed that it was possible to quantify the value of satellite information and that there are significant benefits in more timely and accurate crop condition information.

Controlled Ecological Life Support System Breadboard Project - 1988

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knott, W. M.

1989-01-01

The Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS) Breadboard Project, NASA's effort to develop the technology required to produce a functioning bioregenerative system, is discussed. The different phases of the project and its current status are described. The relationship between the project components are shown, and major project activities for fiscal years 1989-1993 are listed. The biomass production chamber to be used by the project is described.

Enterprise systems in Russia: 1992-2012

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kataev, Michael Yu; Bulysheva, Larisa A.; Emelyanenko, Alexander A.; Emelyanenko, Vladimir A.

2013-05-01

This paper introduces the enterprise systems (ES) development and implementation in Russia in the past three decades. Historic analysis shows that, in terms of time frame, the development of ACS (Automated Control Systems) in the former Soviet Union and the ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) in the West was almost parallel. In this paper, the current status and the major trend of ES in Russia is discussed.

Wavefront control system for the Keck telescope

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

Brase, J. M., LLNL

1998-03-01

The laser guide star adaptive optics system currently being developed for the Keck 2 telescope consists of several major subsystems: the optical bench, wavefront control, user interface and supervisory control, and the laser system. The paper describes the design and implementation of the wavefront control subsystem that controls a 349 actuator deformable mirror for high order correction and tip-tilt mirrors for stabilizing the image and laser positions.

Operationally Efficient Propulsion System Study (OEPSS) data book. Volume 2: Ground operations problems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Waldrop, Glen S.

1990-01-01

Operations problems and cost drivers were identified for current propulsion systems and design and technology approaches were identified to increase the operational efficiency and to reduce operations costs for future propulsion systems. To provide readily usable data for the ALS program, the results of the OEPSS study were organized into a series of OEPSS Data Books. This volume presents a detailed description of 25 major problems encountered during launch processing of current expendable and reusable launch vehicles. A concise description of each problem and its operational impact on launch processing is presented, along with potential solutions and technology recommendation.

24 CFR 115.305 - Special enforcement effort (SEE) funds.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... enforced a subpoena or made use of its prompt judicial action authority within the past year; (2) The... the most recent three years, or is currently engaged in, at least one major fair housing systemic...

Microcomputers in Libraries.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ertel, Monica M.

1984-01-01

This discussion of current microcomputer technologies available to libraries focuses on software applications in four major classifications: communications (online database searching); word processing; administration; and database management systems. Specific examples of library applications are given and six references are cited. (EJS)

Virtual Inertia: Current Trends and Future Directions

DOE PAGES

Tamrakar, Ujjwol; Shrestha, Dipesh; Maharjan, Manisha; ...

2017-06-26

The modern power system is progressing from a synchronous machine-based system towards an inverter-dominated system, with a large-scale penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs) like wind and photovoltaics. RES units today represent a major share of the generation, and the traditional approach of integrating themas grid following units can lead to frequency instability. Many researchers have pointed towards using inverters with virtual inertia control algorithms so that they appear as synchronous generators to the grid, maintaining and enhancing system stability. Our paper presents a literature review of the current state-of-the-art of virtual inertia implementation techniques, and explores potential research directionsmore » and challenges. The major virtual inertia topologies are compared and classified. Through literature review and simulations of some selected topologies it has been shown that similar inertial response can be achieved by relating the parameters of these topologies through time constants and inertia constants, although the exact frequency dynamics may vary slightly. The suitability of a topology depends on system control architecture and desired level of detail in replication of the dynamics of synchronous generators. We present a discussion on the challenges and research directions which points out several research needs, especially for systems level integration of virtual inertia systems.« less

Virtual Inertia: Current Trends and Future Directions

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

Tamrakar, Ujjwol; Shrestha, Dipesh; Maharjan, Manisha

The modern power system is progressing from a synchronous machine-based system towards an inverter-dominated system, with a large-scale penetration of renewable energy sources (RESs) like wind and photovoltaics. RES units today represent a major share of the generation, and the traditional approach of integrating themas grid following units can lead to frequency instability. Many researchers have pointed towards using inverters with virtual inertia control algorithms so that they appear as synchronous generators to the grid, maintaining and enhancing system stability. Our paper presents a literature review of the current state-of-the-art of virtual inertia implementation techniques, and explores potential research directionsmore » and challenges. The major virtual inertia topologies are compared and classified. Through literature review and simulations of some selected topologies it has been shown that similar inertial response can be achieved by relating the parameters of these topologies through time constants and inertia constants, although the exact frequency dynamics may vary slightly. The suitability of a topology depends on system control architecture and desired level of detail in replication of the dynamics of synchronous generators. We present a discussion on the challenges and research directions which points out several research needs, especially for systems level integration of virtual inertia systems.« less

Rotorcraft Master Plan

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-11-01

its new format , presents a picture of a healthy industry with potential for major growth. As traffic in the airway system grows faster than the...certification criteria. Civil tiltrotor certification is highlighted. In addition, work on health and usage monitoring technology and on small, short...Offim 34 major commercial airports will be congested by CAYt 3D . , ^mrmI 1997-even if we do all that is currently planned to expand NAS capacity (see

Development of a Real-Time Environmental Monitoring System, Life Cycle Assessment Systems, and Pollution Prevention Programs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kocher, Walter M.

2003-01-01

Pollution prevention (P2) opportunities and Greening the Government (GtG) activities, including the development of the Real-Time Environmental Monitoring System (RTEMS), are currently under development at the NASA Glenn Research Center. The RTEMS project entails the ongoing development of a monitoring system which includes sensors, instruments, computer hardware and software, plus a data telemetry system.Professor Kocher has been directing the RTEMS project for more than 3 years, and the implementation of the prototype system at GRC will be a major portion of his summer effort. This prototype will provide mulitmedia environmental monitoring and control capabilities, although water quality and air emissions will be the immediate issues addressed this summer. Applications beyond those currently identified for environmental purposes will also be explored.

Automated Hierarchical to CODASYL (Conference on Data Systems Languages) Database Interface Schema Translator.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-12-16

management system (DBMS) is to record and maintain information used by an organization in the organization’s decision-making process. Some advantages of a...independence. Database Management Systems are classified into three major models; relational, network, and hierarchical. Each model uses a software...feeling impedes the overall effectiveness of the 4-" Acquisition Management Information System (AMIS), which currently uses S2k. The size of the AMIS

Smart-card-based automatic meal record system intervention tool for analysis using data mining approach.

PubMed

Zenitani, Satoko; Nishiuchi, Hiromu; Kiuchi, Takahiro

2010-04-01

The Smart-card-based Automatic Meal Record system for company cafeterias (AutoMealRecord system) was recently developed and used to monitor employee eating habits. The system could be a unique nutrition assessment tool for automatically monitoring the meal purchases of all employees, although it only focuses on company cafeterias and has never been validated. Before starting an interventional study, we tested the reliability of the data collected by the system using the data mining approach. The AutoMealRecord data were examined to determine if it could predict current obesity. All data used in this study (n = 899) were collected by a major electric company based in Tokyo, which has been operating the AutoMealRecord system for several years. We analyzed dietary patterns by principal component analysis using data from the system and extracted 5 major dietary patterns: healthy, traditional Japanese, Chinese, Japanese noodles, and pasta. The ability to predict current body mass index (BMI) with dietary preference was assessed with multiple linear regression analyses, and in the current study, BMI was positively correlated with male gender, preference for "Japanese noodles," mean energy intake, protein content, and frequency of body measurement at a body measurement booth in the cafeteria. There was a negative correlation with age, dietary fiber, and lunchtime cafeteria use (R(2) = 0.22). This regression model predicted "would-be obese" participants (BMI >or= 23) with 68.8% accuracy by leave-one-out cross validation. This shows that there was sufficient predictability of BMI based on data from the AutoMealRecord System. We conclude that the AutoMealRecord system is valuable for further consideration as a health care intervention tool. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Chronopharmaceutical Drug Delivery Systems: Hurdles, Hype or Hope?⊗

PubMed Central

Youan, Bi-Botti C.

2010-01-01

The current advances in chronobiology and the knowledge gained from chronotherapy of selected diseases strongly suggest that “the one size fits all at all times” approach to drug delivery is no longer substantiated, at least for selected bioactive agents and disease therapy or prevention. Thus, there is a critical and urgent need for chronopharmaceutical research (e.g., design and evaluation of robust, spatially and temporally controlled drug delivery systems that would be clinically intended for chronotherapy by different routes of administration). This review provides a brief overview of current delivery system intended for chronotherapy. In theory, such an ideal “magic pill” preferably with affordable cost, would improve the safety, efficacy and patient compliance of old and new drugs. However, currently, there are three major hurdles for the successful transition of such system from laboratory to patient bedside. These include the challenges to identify adequate (i) rhythmic biomaterials and systems, (ii) rhythm engineering modeling, perhaps using system biology and (iii) regulatory guidance. PMID:20438781

What's Wrong with Current Chinese College English Assessment System? Reform or Not?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gao, Fen

2010-01-01

The author expounds the "status quo" of college English assessment system in China and objectively points out some major problems that have negative impacts on college English teaching and learning. On the basis of pros and cons towards the issue, the author intends to come up with some effective countermeasures, including converting the…

Finance and supply management project execution plan

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

BENNION, S.I.

As a subproject of the HANDI 2000 project, the Finance and Supply Management system is intended to serve FDH and Project Hanford major subcontractor with financial processes including general ledger, project costing, budgeting, and accounts payable, and supply management process including purchasing, inventory and contracts management. Currently these functions are performed with numerous legacy information systems and suboptimized processes.

Climate change predicted to negatively influence surface soil organic matter of dryland cropping systems in the Inland Pacific Northwest, USA

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Soil organic matter (SOM) is a key indicator of agricultural productivity and overall soil health. Currently, dryland cropping systems of the inland Pacific Northwest (iPNW) span a large gradient in mean annual temperature (MAT) and precipitation (MAP).These climatic drivers are major determinants o...

A Celebration of Neurons: An Educator's Guide to the Human Brain.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sylwester, Robert

This book provides an introduction to the current scientific understanding of the human brain and its processes. Chapter 1, "At the Edge of a Major Transformation," is an introduction to the field. Chapter 2, "How Our Brain Organizes Itself on the Cellular and Systems Levels," covers what body/brain cellular systems do, how…

Evaluating Business Intelligence/Business Analytics Software for Use in the Information Systems Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davis, Gary Alan; Woratschek, Charles R.

2015-01-01

Business Intelligence (BI) and Business Analytics (BA) Software has been included in many Information Systems (IS) curricula. This study surveyed current and past undergraduate and graduate students to evaluate various BI/BA tools. Specifically, this study compared several software tools from two of the major software providers in the BI/BA field.…

Towards the engineering of in vitro systems.

PubMed

Hold, Christoph; Panke, Sven

2009-08-06

Synthetic biology aims at rationally implementing biological systems from scratch. Given the complexity of living systems and our current lack of understanding of many aspects of living cells, this is a major undertaking. The design of in vitro systems can be considerably easier, because they can consist of fewer constituents, are quasi time invariant, their parameter space can be better accessed and they can be much more easily perturbed and then analysed chemically and mathematically. However, even for simplified in vitro systems, following a comprehensively rational design procedure is still difficult. When looking at a comparatively simple system, such as a medium-sized enzymatic reaction network as it is represented by glycolysis, major issues such as a lack of comprehensive enzyme kinetics and of suitable knowledge on crucial design parameters remain. Nevertheless, in vitro systems are very suitable to overcome these obstacles and therefore well placed to act as a stepping stone to engineering living systems.

New software system to improve AGU membership management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McEntee, Chris

2012-06-01

Almost 2 years ago, AGU began investigating how it could more efficiently manage member and customer records as well as support processes that currently run on multiple systems. I am pleased to announce that on 25 June, as the result of intense efforts, AGU will migrate to a new database software system that will house the majority of AGU operations. AGU staff will have more tools at their disposal to assist members, and members will have more intuitive and user-friendly options when using the online interface to update their profiles or make purchases. I am particularly excited about this major improvement to our infrastructure because it better positions AGU to achieve goals in its strategic plan.

Treat the brain and treat the periphery: toward a holistic approach to major depressive disorder.

PubMed

Zheng, Xiao; Zhang, Xueli; Wang, Guangji; Hao, Haiping

2015-05-01

The limited medication for major depressive disorder (MDD) against an ever-rising disease burden presents an urgent need for therapeutic innovations. During recent years, studies looking at the systems regulation of mental health and disease have shown a remarkably powerful control of MDD by systemic signals. Meanwhile, the identification of a host of targets outside the brain opens the way to treat MDD by targeting systemic signals. We examine these emerging findings and consider the implications for current thinking regarding MDD pathogenesis and treatment. We highlight the opportunities and challenges of a periphery-targeting strategy and propose its incorporation into a holistic approach. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Livestock production systems in developing countries: status, drivers, trends.

PubMed

Steinfeld, H; Wassenaar, T; Jutzi, S

2006-08-01

This paper describes and assesses the current status of livestock production systems, the drivers of global livestock production, and the major trends in such production. The analysis covers the six major livestock species: cattle and buffaloes, goats and sheep, pigs and chickens. Global drivers of the livestock sector include economic growth and income, demographic and land use changes, dietary adjustments and technological change. The rate of change and direction of livestock development vary greatly among world regions, with Asia showing the most rapid growth and structural change. The paper also examines system dynamics, by analysing the ways livestock production has adjusted to external forces. A brief discussion of how these trends link to food safety concludes the paper.

Study of advanced atmospheric entry systems for Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

Entry system designs are described for various advanced Mars missions including sample return, hard lander, and Mars airplane. The Mars exploration systems for sample return and the hard lander require decleration from direct approach entry velocities of about 6 km/s to terminal velocities consistent with surface landing requirements. The Mars airplane entry system is decelerated from orbit at 4.6 km/s to deployment near the surface. Mass performance characteristics of major elements of the Mass performance characteristics are estimated for the major elements of the required entry systems using Viking technology or logical extensions of technology in order to provide a common basis of comparison for the three entry modes mission mode approaches. The entry systems, although not optimized, are based on Viking designs and reflect current hardware performance capability and realistic mass relationships.

Development of a current collection loss management system for SDI homopolar power supplies

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

Brown, D.W.

1989-01-01

High speed, high power density current collection systems have been identified as an enabling technology required to construct homopolar power supplies to meet SDI missions. This work is part of a three-year effort directed towards the analysis, experimental verification, and prototype construction of a current collection system designed to operate continuously at 2 kA/cm{sup 2}, at a rubbing speed of 200 m/s, and with acceptable losses in a space environment. To data, no system has achieved these conditions simultaneously. This is the annual report covering the second year period of performance on DOE contract DE-AC03-86SF16518. Major areas covered include design,more » construction and operation of a cryogenically cooled brush test rig, design and construction of a high speed brush test rig, optimization study for homopolar machines, loss analysis of the current collection system, and an application study which defines the air-core homopolar construction necessary to achieve the goal of 80--90 kW/kg generator power density. 17 figs., 2 tabs.« less

Health care quality, access, cost, workforce, and surgical education: the ultimate perfect storm.

PubMed

Schwartz, Marshall Z

2012-01-01

The discussions on health care reform over the past two years have focused on cost containment while trying to maintain quality of care. Focusing on just cost and quality unfortunately does not address other very important factors that impact on our health care delivery system. Availability of a well-trained workforce, maintaining the sophisticated medical/surgical education system, and ultimately access to quality care by the public are critical to maintaining and enhancing our health care delivery system. Unfortunately, all five of these components are under at risk. Thus, we have evolving the ultimate perfect storm affecting our health care delivery system. Although not ideal and given the uniqueness of our population and their expectations, our current delivery system is excellent compared to other countries. However, the cost of our current system is rising at an alarming rate. Currently, health care consumes 17% of our gross domestic product. If our system is not revised this will continue to rise and by 2025 it will consume 48%. The dilemma, given the current state of our overall economy and rising debt, is how to address this major problem. Unfortunately, the Affordable Care Act, which is now law, does not address most of the issues and the cost was initially grossly under estimated. Furthermore, the law does not address the issues of workforce, maintaining our medical education system or ultimately, access. A major revision of our system will be necessary to truly create a system that protects and enhances all five of the components of our health care delivery system. To effectively accomplish this will require addressing those issues that lead to wasteful spending and diversion of our health care dollars to profit instead of care. Improved and efficient delivery systems that reduce complications, reduction of duplication of tertiary and quaternary programs or services within the same markets (i.e. regionalization of care), health insurance reform, and tort reform collectively could save hundreds of billion dollars per year! These changes may not be easy to accomplish politically but will be essential to save what is likely the best health care system in the world. Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Inc.

The Quiet Health Care Revolution.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Herzlinger, Regina

1994-01-01

Discusses how entrepreneurs have helped reduce costs in health care and examines the major changes in the health care system that are simultaneously lowering costs and increasing quality. The author then explains how current reform proposals might affect these entrepreneurial innovations. (GLR)

Development of uniform standards for allowable lane closure : final report, September 2008.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2008-09-01

Procedures for determining allowable lane closure hours to perform maintenance, construction, resurfacing, regional permit and major access permit work on the state highway system were evaluated. The current process involves the collection of traffic...

Vehicle-based drowsy driver detection : current status and future prospects

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1994-01-01

Driver drowsiness is a major, though elusive, cause of traffic crashes. As part of its : IVHS/human factors program, NHTSA is supporting research to develop in-vehicle systems . : to continuously monitor driver alertness and performance. Scientific s...

Superconducting technology for overcurrent limiting in a 25 kA current injection system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heydari, Hossein; Faghihi, Faramarz; Sharifi, Reza; Poursoltanmohammadi, Amir Hossein

2008-09-01

Current injection transformer (CIT) systems are within the major group of the standard type test of high current equipment in the electrical industry, so their performance becomes very important. When designing high current systems, there are many factors to be considered from which their overcurrent protection must be ensured. The output of a CIT is wholly dependent on the impedance of the equipment under test (EUT). Therefore current flow beyond the allowable limit can occur. The present state of the art provides an important guide to developing current limiters not only for the grid application but also in industrial equipment. This paper reports the state of the art in the technology available that could be developed into an application of superconductivity for high current equipment (CIT) protection with no test disruption. This will result in a greater market choice and lower costs for equipment protection solutions, reduced costs and improved system reliability. The paper will also push the state of the art by using two distinctive circuits, closed-core and open-core, for overcurrent protection of a 25 kA CIT system, based on a flux-lock-type superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) and magnetic properties of high temperature superconducting (HTS) elements. An appropriate location of the HTS element will enhance the rate of limitation with the help of the magnetic field generated by the CIT output busbars. The calculation of the HTS parameters for overcurrent limiting is also performed to suit the required current levels of the CIT.

A Further Look at Technologies and Capabilities for Stabilization and Reconstruction Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-09-01

in current S&R operations in Iraq and Afghanistan due to the infrequency of major combat operations. However, other ABCS sub- systems are vital to S&R...complex environments. In terms of the need for an integrated S&R operational planning and execution C2 system , there continues to be a challenge in ... systems (which speaks to the over-reliance on cell phones as a means of

Marine Aerosol Precursor Emissions for Earth System Models

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

Maltrud, Mathew Einar

2016-07-25

Dimethyl sulfide (DMS) is generated by marine ecosystems and plays a major role in cloud formation over the ocean. Currently, Earth System Models use imposed flux of DMS from the ocean to the atmosphere that is independent of the climate state. We have added DMS as a prognostic variable to the Community Earth System Model (CESM) that depends on the distribution of phytoplankton species, and thus changes with climate.

Environmental stressors influencing hormones and systems physiology in cattle

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Environmental stressors undoubtedly influence organismal biology, specifically the endocrine system that, in turn, impact cattle at the systems physiology level. Despite the significant advances in understanding the genetic determinants of the ideal dairy or beef cow, there is a grave lack of understanding of the systems physiology and effects of the environmental stressors that interfere with the endocrine system. This is a major problem because the lack of such knowledge is preventing advances in understanding gene-environment interactions and developing science-based solutions to these challenges. In this review, we synthesize the current knowledge on the nature of the major environmental stressors, such as climate (heat, cold, wind, and humidity), nutrition (feeds, feeding systems, and endocrine disruptors) and management (housing density and conditions, transportation, weaning practices). We summarize the impact of each one of these factors on cattle at the systems level, and provide solutions for the challenges. PMID:24996419

Managerial innovation in the hospital: an analysis of the diffusion of hospital cost-accounting systems.

PubMed

Counte, M A; Glandon, G L

1988-01-01

Currently much interest is focused on the uses of cost-accounting systems within the hospital industry. Proponents frequently contend that such systems will help hospitals successfully adapt to new methods of financial reimbursement because they are essential to a number of major management functions, including competitive bidding, cost management, pricing, and profitability assessment. This article reports the results of a study conducted to examine the extent to which hospitals in a major market are actually beginning to use standard cost-accounting systems and identify factors that either aid or hinder the diffusion of these methods. Chief financial officers from 94 hospitals (83 percent response rate) participated in the study during the summer of 1986 where less than half of the hospitals (43 percent) had recently purchased a cost-accounting system. Detailed information about the interface of cost-accounting systems with other application systems and their specific management uses is reported.

A comparison of organized and traditional health care: implications for health promotion and prospective medicine.

PubMed

Lawrence, D M

2005-01-01

To compare organized and traditional health care delivery systems and their ability to meet several major challenges facing health care in the next 25 years. Analysis of traditional and organized health care systems based on a career spent in organized health care systems. The traditional health care system based on independent autonomous physicians is not able to meet the challenges of current healthcare. Stronger integration and coordination, i.e., organized health care delivery systems are required.

Future Combat System Spinout 1 Technical Field Test - Establishing and Implementing Models and Simulations System of Systems Verification, Validation and Accreditation Practices, Methodologies and Procedures

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-11-24

assisted by the Brigade Combat Team (BCT) Modernization effort, the use of Models and Simulations ( M &S) becomes more crucial in supporting major...in 2008 via a slice of the Current Force (CF) BCT structure. To ensure realistic operational context, a M &S System-of- Systems (SoS) level...messages, and constructive representation of platforms, vehicles, and terrain. The M &S federation also provided test control, data collection, and live

ISSYS: An integrated synergistic Synthesis System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dovi, A. R.

1980-01-01

Integrated Synergistic Synthesis System (ISSYS), an integrated system of computer codes in which the sequence of program execution and data flow is controlled by the user, is discussed. The commands available to exert such control, the ISSYS major function and rules, and the computer codes currently available in the system are described. Computational sequences frequently used in the aircraft structural analysis and synthesis are defined. External computer codes utilized by the ISSYS system are documented. A bibliography on the programs is included.

Nutrient supply, surface currents, and plankton dynamics predict zooplankton hotspots in coastal upwelling systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Messié, Monique; Chavez, Francisco P.

2017-09-01

A simple combination of wind-driven nutrient upwelling, surface currents, and plankton growth/grazing equations generates zooplankton patchiness and hotspots in coastal upwelling regions. Starting with an initial input of nitrate from coastal upwelling, growth and grazing equations evolve phytoplankton and zooplankton over time and space following surface currents. The model simulates the transition from coastal (large phytoplankton, e.g., diatoms) to offshore (picophytoplankton and microzooplankton) communities, and in between generates a large zooplankton maximum. The method was applied to four major upwelling systems (California, Peru, Northwest Africa, and Benguela) using latitudinal estimates of wind-driven nitrate supply and satellite-based surface currents. The resulting zooplankton simulations are patchy in nature; areas of high concentrations coincide with previously documented copepod and krill hotspots. The exercise highlights the importance of the upwelling process and surface currents in shaping plankton communities.

Metallization failures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beatty, R.

1971-01-01

Metallization-related failure mechanisms were shown to be a major cause of integrated circuit failures under accelerated stress conditions, as well as in actual use under field operation. The integrated circuit industry is aware of the problem and is attempting to solve it in one of two ways: (1) better understanding of the aluminum system, which is the most widely used metallization material for silicon integrated circuits both as a single level and multilevel metallization, or (2) evaluating alternative metal systems. Aluminum metallization offers many advantages, but also has limitations particularly at elevated temperatures and high current densities. As an alternative, multilayer systems of the general form, silicon device-metal-inorganic insulator-metal, are being considered to produce large scale integrated arrays. The merits and restrictions of metallization systems in current usage and systems under development are defined.

Proposal of a new staging system for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: Analysis of surgical patients from a nationwide survey of the Liver Cancer Study Group of Japan.

PubMed

Sakamoto, Yoshihiro; Kokudo, Norihiro; Matsuyama, Yutaka; Sakamoto, Michiie; Izumi, Namiki; Kadoya, Masumi; Kaneko, Shuichi; Ku, Yonson; Kudo, Masatoshi; Takayama, Tadatoshi; Nakashima, Osamu

2016-01-01

In the current American Joint Committee on Cancer/International Union Against Cancer staging system (seventh edition) for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), tumor size was excluded, and periductal invasion was added as a new tumor classification-defining factor. The objective of the current report was to propose a new staging system for ICC that would be better for stratifying the survival of patients based on data from the nationwide Liver Cancer Study Group of Japan database. Of 756 patients who underwent surgical resection for ICC between 2000 and 2005, multivariate analyses of the clinicopathologic factors of 419 patients who had complete data sets were performed to elucidate relevant factors for inclusion in a new tumor classification and staging system. Overall survival data were best stratified using a cutoff value of 2 cm using a minimal P value approach to discriminate patient survival. The 5-year survival rate of 15 patients who had ICC measuring ≤ 2 cm in greatest dimension without lymph node metastasis or vascular invasion was 100%, and this cohort was defined as T1. Multivariate analysis of prognostic factors for 267 patients with lymph node-negative and metastasis-negative (N0M0) disease indicated that the number of tumors, the presence arterial invasion, and the presence major biliary invasion were independent and significant prognostic factors. The proposed new system, which included tumor number, tumor size, arterial invasion, and major biliary invasion for tumor classification, provided good stratification of overall patient survival according to disease stage. Macroscopic periductal invasion was associated with major biliary invasion and an inferior prognosis. The proposed new staging system, which includes a tumor cutoff size of 2 cm and major biliary invasion, may be useful for assigning patients to surgery. © 2015 The Authors. Cancer published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Cancer Society.

Videotex: Chimera or Dream Machine.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ball, A. J. S.

1981-01-01

Describes three current two-way public information systems representing the major technologies which are being proposed as international standards: Prestel (United Kingdom), Teletel (France), and Telidon (Canada). Information retrieval structures are compared, and difficulties for both the information provider and the information user are…

Recommendations for shoulder restraint installation in general aviation aircraft.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1966-09-01

The use of inadequate or incomplete body restraint systems is a major factor in the current trend of increasing serious and fatal type injuries reported from general aviation accidents. An analysis of these accident injuries and conditions clearly in...

COST MODELS FOR WATER SUPPLY DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

EPA Science Inventory

A major challenge for society in the twenty-first century will be replacement, design and optimal management of urban infrastructure. It is estimated that the current world wide demand for infrastructure investment is approximately three trillion dollars annually. A Drinking Wate...

Automated eddy current analysis of materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Workman, Gary L.

1991-01-01

The use of eddy current techniques for characterizing flaws in graphite-based filament-wound cylindrical structures is described. A major emphasis was also placed upon incorporating artificial intelligence techniques into the signal analysis portion of the inspection process. Developing an eddy current scanning system using a commercial robot for inspecting graphite structures (and others) was a goal in the overall concept and is essential for the final implementation for the expert systems interpretation. Manual scans, as performed in the preliminary work here, do not provide sufficiently reproducible eddy current signatures to be easily built into a real time expert system. The expert systems approach to eddy current signal analysis requires that a suitable knowledge base exist in which correct decisions as to the nature of a flaw can be performed. A robotic workcell using eddy current transducers for the inspection of carbon filament materials with improved sensitivity was developed. Improved coupling efficiencies achieved with the E-probes and horseshoe probes are exceptional for graphite fibers. The eddy current supervisory system and expert system was partially developed on a MacIvory system. Continued utilization of finite element models for predetermining eddy current signals was shown to be useful in this work, both for understanding how electromagnetic fields interact with graphite fibers, and also for use in determining how to develop the knowledge base. Sufficient data was taken to indicate that the E-probe and the horseshoe probe can be useful eddy current transducers for inspecting graphite fiber components. The lacking component at this time is a large enough probe to have sensitivity in both the far and near field of a thick graphite epoxy component.

STATUS OF VARIOUS SNS DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEMS

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

Blokland, Willem; Purcell, J David; Patton, Jeff

2007-01-01

The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) accelerator systems are ramping up to deliver a 1.0 GeV, 1.4 MW proton beam to a liquid mercury target for neutron scattering research. Enhancements or additions have been made to several instrument systems to support the ramp up in intensity, improve reliability, and/or add functionality. The Beam Current Monitors now support increased rep rates, the Harp system now includes charge density calculations for the target, and a new system has been created to collect data for the beam accounting and present the data over the web and to the operator consoles. The majority of themore » SNS beam instruments are PC-based and their configuration files are now managed through the Oracle relational database. A new version for the wire scanner software was developed to add features to correlate the scan with beam loss, parking in the beam, and measuring the longitudinal beam current. This software is currently being tested. This paper also includes data from the selected instruments.« less

Phase-to-intensity conversion of magnonic spin currents and application to the design of a majority gate

PubMed Central

Brächer, T.; Heussner, F.; Pirro, P.; Meyer, T.; Fischer, T.; Geilen, M.; Heinz, B.; Lägel, B.; Serga, A. A.; Hillebrands, B.

2016-01-01

Magnonic spin currents in the form of spin waves and their quanta, magnons, are a promising candidate for a new generation of wave-based logic devices beyond CMOS, where information is encoded in the phase of travelling spin-wave packets. The direct readout of this phase on a chip is of vital importance to couple magnonic circuits to conventional CMOS electronics. Here, we present the conversion of the spin-wave phase into a spin-wave intensity by local non-adiabatic parallel pumping in a microstructure. This conversion takes place within the spin-wave system itself and the resulting spin-wave intensity can be conveniently transformed into a DC voltage. We also demonstrate how the phase-to-intensity conversion can be used to extract the majority information from an all-magnonic majority gate. This conversion method promises a convenient readout of the magnon phase in future magnon-based devices. PMID:27905539

Development of an "Alert Framework" Based on the Practices in the Medical Front.

PubMed

Sakata, Takuya; Araki, Kenji; Yamazaki, Tomoyoshi; Kawano, Koichi; Maeda, Minoru; Kushima, Muneo; Araki, Sanae

2018-05-09

At the University of Miyazaki Hospital (UMH), we have accumulated and semantically structured a vast amount of medical information since the activation of the electronic health record system approximately 10 years ago. With this medical information, we have decided to develop an alert system for aiding in medical treatment. The purpose of this investigation is to not only to integrate an alert framework into the electronic heath record system, but also to formulate a modeling method of this knowledge. A trial alert framework was developed for the staff in various occupational categories at the UMH. Based on findings of subsequent interviews, a more detailed and upgraded alert framework was constructed, resulting in the final model. Based on our current findings, an alert framework was developed with four major items. Based on the analysis of the medical practices from the trial model, it has been concluded that there are four major risk patterns that trigger the alert. Furthermore, the current alert framework contains detailed definitions which are easily substituted into the database, leading to easy implementation of the electronic health records.

Scientific and Ethical Reflections on Academic Corruption in Universities: On the Science Research Evaluation System in China's Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Xiaochun, Wu; Dan, Jia

2007-01-01

A study of the science research activities in China's institutions of higher learning in recent years indicates that there is a major connection between the current instances of corruption in scientific research at colleges and universities and the evaluations system for scientific research implemented at many of the colleges and universities.…

One Piece of the Whole: Teacher Evaluation as Part of a Comprehensive System for Teaching and Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Darling-Hammond, Linda

2014-01-01

As a major policy focus, teacher evaluation is currently the primary tool promoted to improve teaching quality. But evaluation alone is not enough. What will most transform teaching quality--and the profession--is the creation of a larger system that supports teaching and learning through on-the-job evaluation and professional development, and…

Systematic Model-in-the-Loop Test of Embedded Control Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krupp, Alexander; Müller, Wolfgang

Current model-based development processes offer new opportunities for verification automation, e.g., in automotive development. The duty of functional verification is the detection of design flaws. Current functional verification approaches exhibit a major gap between requirement definition and formal property definition, especially when analog signals are involved. Besides lack of methodical support for natural language formalization, there does not exist a standardized and accepted means for formal property definition as a target for verification planning. This article addresses several shortcomings of embedded system verification. An Enhanced Classification Tree Method is developed based on the established Classification Tree Method for Embeded Systems CTM/ES which applies a hardware verification language to define a verification environment.

Does NASA's Constellation Architecture Offer Opportunities to Achieve Multiple Additional Goals in Space?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thronson, Harley; Lester, Daniel F.

2008-01-01

Every major NASA human spaceflight program in the last four decades has been modified to achieve goals in space not incorporated within the original design goals: the Apollo Applications Program, Skylab, Space Shuttle, and International Space Station. Several groups in the US have been identifying major future science goals, the science facilities necessary to investigate them, as well as possible roles for augmented versions of elements of NASA's Constellation program. Specifically, teams in the astronomy community have been developing concepts for very capable missions to follow the James Webb Space Telescope that could take advantage of - or require - free-space operations by astronauts and/or robots. Taking as one example, the Single-Aperture Far-InfraRed (SAFIR) telescope with a approx. 10+ m aperture proposed for operation in the 2020 timeframe. According to current NASA plans, the Ares V launch vehicle (or a variant) will be available about the same time, as will the capability to transport astronauts to the vicinity of the Moon via the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle and associated systems. [As the lunar surface offers no advantages - and major disadvantages - for most major optical systems, the expensive system for landing and operating on the lunar surface is not required.] Although as currently conceived, SAFIR and other astronomical missions will operate at the Sun-Earth L2 location, it appears trivial to travel for servicing to the more accessible Earth-Moon L1,2 locations. Moreover. as the recent Orbital Express and Automated Transfer Vehicle missions have demonstrated, future robotic capabilities should offer capabilities that would (remotely) extend human presence far beyond the vicinity of the Earth. In addition to multiplying the value of NASA's architecture for future human spaceflight to achieve the goals multiple major stakeholders. if humans one day travel beyond the Earth-Moon system - say, to Mars - technologies and capabilities for operating for long periods in free space must be developed. The engineering, management. and operational successes of the Space Station have demonstrated that international collaboratioi is possible. However, there is a danger that the hard-won lessons of cLul+sent programs will be lost without continuing development of in-space operations. A program to achieve. for example. major astronomical goals in space using astronauts and robots will sustain international capabilities. produce highly visible achievements. and appeal to a11 additional broad community of stakeholders not currently involved with missions to the lunar surface.

Comparison of field-aligned currents at ionospheric and magnetospheric altitudes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spence, H. E.; Kivelson, M. G.; Walker, R. J.

1988-01-01

Using the empirical terrestrial magnetospheric magnetic field models of Tsyganenko and Usmanov (1982) and Tsyganenko (1987) the average field-aligned currents (FACs) in the magnetosphere were determined as a function of the Kp index. Three major model FAC systems were identified, namely, the dayside region 1, the nightside region 1, and the nightside polar cap. The models provide information about the sources of the current systems. Mapped ionospheric model FACs are compared with low-altitude measurements obtained by the spacecraft. It is found that low-altitude data can reveal either classic region 1/2 or more highly structured FAC patterns. Therefore, statistical results either obtained from observations or inferred from models are expected to be averages over temporally and spatially shifting patterns.

Distributed, cooperating knowledge-based systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Truszkowski, Walt

1991-01-01

Some current research in the development and application of distributed, cooperating knowledge-based systems technology is addressed. The focus of the current research is the spacecraft ground operations environment. The underlying hypothesis is that, because of the increasing size, complexity, and cost of planned systems, conventional procedural approaches to the architecture of automated systems will give way to a more comprehensive knowledge-based approach. A hallmark of these future systems will be the integration of multiple knowledge-based agents which understand the operational goals of the system and cooperate with each other and the humans in the loop to attain the goals. The current work includes the development of a reference model for knowledge-base management, the development of a formal model of cooperating knowledge-based agents, the use of testbed for prototyping and evaluating various knowledge-based concepts, and beginning work on the establishment of an object-oriented model of an intelligent end-to-end (spacecraft to user) system. An introductory discussion of these activities is presented, the major concepts and principles being investigated are highlighted, and their potential use in other application domains is indicated.

Learning from Trending, Precursor Analysis, and System Failures

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

Youngblood, R. W.; Duffey, R. B.

2015-11-01

Models of reliability growth relate current system unreliability to currently accumulated experience. But “experience” comes in different forms. Looking back after a major accident, one is sometimes able to identify previous events or measurable performance trends that were, in some sense, signaling the potential for that major accident: potential that could have been recognized and acted upon, but was not recognized until the accident occurred. This could be a previously unrecognized cause of accidents, or underestimation of the likelihood that a recognized potential cause would actually operate. Despite improvements in the state of practice of modeling of risk and reliability,more » operational experience still has a great deal to teach us, and work has been going on in several industries to try to do a better job of learning from experience before major accidents occur. It is not enough to say that we should review operating experience; there is too much “experience” for such general advice to be considered practical. The paper discusses the following: 1. The challenge of deciding what to focus on in analysis of operating experience. 2. Comparing what different models of learning and reliability growth imply about trending and precursor analysis.« less

Radar tracking with an interacting multiple model and probabilistic data association filter for civil aviation applications.

PubMed

Jan, Shau-Shiun; Kao, Yu-Chun

2013-05-17

The current trend of the civil aviation technology is to modernize the legacy air traffic control (ATC) system that is mainly supported by many ground based navigation aids to be the new air traffic management (ATM) system that is enabled by global positioning system (GPS) technology. Due to the low receiving power of GPS signal, it is a major concern to aviation authorities that the operation of the ATM system might experience service interruption when the GPS signal is jammed by either intentional or unintentional radio-frequency interference. To maintain the normal operation of the ATM system during the period of GPS outage, the use of the current radar system is proposed in this paper. However, the tracking performance of the current radar system could not meet the required performance of the ATM system, and an enhanced tracking algorithm, the interacting multiple model and probabilistic data association filter (IMMPDAF), is therefore developed to support the navigation and surveillance services of the ATM system. The conventional radar tracking algorithm, the nearest neighbor Kalman filter (NNKF), is used as the baseline to evaluate the proposed radar tracking algorithm, and the real flight data is used to validate the IMMPDAF algorithm. As shown in the results, the proposed IMMPDAF algorithm could enhance the tracking performance of the current aviation radar system and meets the required performance of the new ATM system. Thus, the current radar system with the IMMPDAF algorithm could be used as an alternative system to continue aviation navigation and surveillance services of the ATM system during GPS outage periods.

Radar Tracking with an Interacting Multiple Model and Probabilistic Data Association Filter for Civil Aviation Applications

PubMed Central

Jan, Shau-Shiun; Kao, Yu-Chun

2013-01-01

The current trend of the civil aviation technology is to modernize the legacy air traffic control (ATC) system that is mainly supported by many ground based navigation aids to be the new air traffic management (ATM) system that is enabled by global positioning system (GPS) technology. Due to the low receiving power of GPS signal, it is a major concern to aviation authorities that the operation of the ATM system might experience service interruption when the GPS signal is jammed by either intentional or unintentional radio-frequency interference. To maintain the normal operation of the ATM system during the period of GPS outage, the use of the current radar system is proposed in this paper. However, the tracking performance of the current radar system could not meet the required performance of the ATM system, and an enhanced tracking algorithm, the interacting multiple model and probabilistic data association filter (IMMPDAF), is therefore developed to support the navigation and surveillance services of the ATM system. The conventional radar tracking algorithm, the nearest neighbor Kalman filter (NNKF), is used as the baseline to evaluate the proposed radar tracking algorithm, and the real flight data is used to validate the IMMPDAF algorithm. As shown in the results, the proposed IMMPDAF algorithm could enhance the tracking performance of the current aviation radar system and meets the required performance of the new ATM system. Thus, the current radar system with the IMMPDAF algorithm could be used as an alternative system to continue aviation navigation and surveillance services of the ATM system during GPS outage periods. PMID:23686142

Controlled ecological life support system breadboard project, 1988

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knott, W. M.

1990-01-01

The Closed Ecological Life Support System (CELSS) Breadboard Project, NASA's effort to develop the technology required to produce a functioning bioregenerative system, is discussed. The different phases of the project and its current status are described. The relationship between the project components are shown, and major project activities for fiscal years 1989 to 1993 are listed. The Biomass Production Chamber (BPC) became operational and tests of wheat as a single crop are nearing completion.

The B-747 flight control system maintenance and reliability data base for cost effectiveness tradeoff studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

Primary and automatic flight controls are combined for a total flight control reliability and maintenance cost data base using information from two previous reports and additional cost data gathered from a major airline. A comparison of the current B-747 flight control system effects on reliability and operating cost with that of a B-747 designed for an active control wing load alleviation system is provided.

Imaginable Technologies for Human Missions to Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bushnell, Dennis M.

2007-01-01

The thesis of the present discussion is that the simultaneous cost and inherent safety issues of human on-site exploration of Mars will require advanced-to-revolutionary technologies. The major crew safety issues as currently identified include reduced gravity, radiation, potentially extremely toxic dust and the requisite reliability for years-long missions. Additionally, this discussion examines various technological areas which could significantly impact Human-Mars cost and safety. Cost reductions for space access is a major metric, including approaches to significantly reduce the overall up-mass. Besides fuel, propulsion and power systems, the up-mass consists of the infrastructure and supplies required to keep humans healthy and the equipment for executing exploration mission tasks. Hence, the major technological areas of interest for potential cost reductions include propulsion, in-space and on-planet power, life support systems, materials and overall architecture, systems, and systems-of-systems approaches. This discussion is specifically offered in response to and as a contribution to goal 3 of the Presidential Exploration Vision: "Develop the Innovative Technologies Knowledge and Infrastructures both to explore and to support decisions about the destinations for human exploration".

Proceedings of the NATO Advanced Study Institute on Physics and Applications of Quantum Wells and Superlattices Held in Erice, Italy on 21 April - 1 May 1987. Series B. Volume 170

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-05-01

possibilities and the latter providing a photodetector with low dark currents . Some mention will also be made of structures devised by Nakagawa7 ,8...developments concerning the growth and the characterization of Hgl_xCdxTe-Cdte SLs and related Hg based superlattice systems. These SLs are now currently ...minority carriers in the base region. When a current is flowing, the drift velocities of minority and majority carriers are oppositely directed, and

Thalamic inhibition: diverse sources, diverse scales

PubMed Central

Halassa, Michael M.; Acsády, László

2016-01-01

The thalamus is the major source of cortical inputs shaping sensation, action and cognition. Thalamic circuits are targeted by two major inhibitory systems: the thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN) and extra-thalamic inhibitory (ETI) inputs. A unifying framework of how these systems operate is currently lacking. Here, we propose that TRN circuits are specialized to exert thalamic control at different spatiotemporal scales. Local inhibition of thalamic spike rates prevails during attentional selection whereas global inhibition more likely during sleep. In contrast, the ETI (arising from basal ganglia, zona incerta, anterior pretectum and pontine reticular formation) provides temporally-precise and focal inhibition, impacting spike timing. Together, these inhibitory systems allow graded control of thalamic output, enabling thalamocortical operations to dynamically match ongoing behavioral demands. PMID:27589879

Capacity-oriented curriculum system of optoelectronics in the context of large category cultivation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Yuan; Hu, Zhangfang; Zhang, Yi

2017-08-01

In order to cultivate the innovative talents with the comprehensive development to meet the talents demand for development of economic society, Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications implements cultivation based on broadening basic education and enrolment in large category of general education. Optoelectronic information science and engineering major belongs to the electronic engineering category. The "2 +2" mode is utilized for personnel training, where students are without major in the first and second year and assigned to a major within the major categories in the end of the second year. In the context of the comprehensive cultivation, for the changes in the demand for professionals in the global competitive environment with the currently rapid development, especially the demand for the professional engineering technology personnel suitable to industry and development of local economic society, the concept of CDIO engineering ability cultivation is used for reference. Thus the curriculum system for the three-node structure optoelectronic information science and engineering major is proposed, which attaches great importance to engineering practice and innovation cultivation under the background of the comprehensive cultivation. The conformity between the curriculum system and the personnel training objectives is guaranteed effectively, and the consistency between the teaching philosophy and the teaching behavior is enhanced. Therefore, the idea of major construction is clear with specific characteristics.

An Agent-Based Information System for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Deployment

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-08-18

The current scarcity of public charging infrastructure is one of the major barriers to mass household adoption of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs). Although most PEV drivers can recharge their vehicles at home, the limited driving range of the vehicl...

Artificial Intelligence: Underlying Assumptions and Basic Objectives.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cercone, Nick; McCalla, Gordon

1984-01-01

Presents perspectives on methodological assumptions underlying research efforts in artificial intelligence (AI) and charts activities, motivations, methods, and current status of research in each of the major AI subareas: natural language understanding; computer vision; expert systems; search, problem solving, planning; theorem proving and logic…

Lowell Observatory's Discovery Channel Telescope: Telescope and Systems Specifications and Commissioning Status

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levine, Stephen; Hall, J. C.

2012-01-01

Lowell Observatory's 4.3-meter Discovery Channel Telescope is in the process of being commissioned now. The telescope is located 40 miles southeast of Flagstaff,AZ at an elevation of 7,800 feet. On sky testing of the major subsystems began in early fall 2011, with commissioning work leading up to first light in late spring of 2012. We present a review of the design specifications of the telescope and its major subsystems. This is followed by a discussion of the commissioning time-line, and current status and performance of the telescope, and optics (including the active optics support system for the primary mirror).

Biodiversity, evolution and adaptation of cultivated crops.

PubMed

Vigouroux, Yves; Barnaud, Adeline; Scarcelli, Nora; Thuillet, Anne-Céline

2011-05-01

The human diet depends on very few crops. Current diversity in these crops is the result of a long interaction between farmers and cultivated plants, and their environment. Man largely shaped crop biodiversity from the domestication period 12,000 B.P. to the development of improved varieties during the last century. We illustrate this process through a detailed analysis of the domestication and early diffusion of maize. In smallholder agricultural systems, farmers still have a major impact on crop diversity today. We review several examples of the major impact of man on current diversity. Finally, biodiversity is considered to be an asset for adaptation to current environmental changes. We describe the evolution of pearl millet in West Africa, where average rainfall has decreased over the last forty years. Diversity in cultivated varieties has certainly helped this crop to adapt to climate variation. Copyright © 2011 Académie des sciences. Published by Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.

Advanced Manufacturing Systems in Food Processing and Packaging Industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shafie Sani, Mohd; Aziz, Faieza Abdul

2013-06-01

In this paper, several advanced manufacturing systems in food processing and packaging industry are reviewed, including: biodegradable smart packaging and Nano composites, advanced automation control system consists of fieldbus technology, distributed control system and food safety inspection features. The main purpose of current technology in food processing and packaging industry is discussed due to major concern on efficiency of the plant process, productivity, quality, as well as safety. These application were chosen because they are robust, flexible, reconfigurable, preserve the quality of the food, and efficient.

Indian Ocean Surface Circulations and Their Connection to Indian Ocean Dipole, Identified From Ocean Surface Currents Analysis Real Time (OSCAR) Data

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-06-01

31 1. Seasonal Development .......................................................................32 2. Winter Monsoon...summary of the monsoon system in the Indian Ocean. The top part indicates the wind cycle; the lower part shows the major currents that develop in...energy interests in the Indian Ocean’s waters. The rapid economic progress in developing nations, such as India and South Africa, also adds up their

Benefits of Sharing Information from Commercial Airborne Forward-Looking Sensors in the Next Generation Air Transportation System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schaffner, Philip R.; Harrah, Steven; Neece, Robert T.

2012-01-01

The air transportation system of the future will need to support much greater traffic densities than are currently possible, while preserving or improving upon current levels of safety. Concepts are under development to support a Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen) that by some estimates will need to support up to three times current capacity by the year 2025. Weather and other atmospheric phenomena, such as wake vortices and volcanic ash, constitute major constraints on airspace system capacity and can present hazards to aircraft if encountered. To support safe operations in the NextGen environment advanced systems for collection and dissemination of aviation weather and environmental information will be required. The envisioned NextGen Network Enabled Weather (NNEW) infrastructure will be a critical component of the aviation weather support services, providing access to a common weather picture for all system users. By taking advantage of Network Enabled Operations (NEO) capabilities, a virtual 4-D Weather Data Cube with aviation weather information from many sources will be developed. One new source of weather observations may be airborne forward-looking sensors, such as the X-band weather radar. Future sensor systems that are the subject of current research include advanced multi-frequency and polarimetric radar, a variety of Lidar technologies, and infrared imaging spectrometers.

A simulation system for Space Station extravehicular activity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marmolejo, Jose A.; Shepherd, Chip

1993-01-01

America's next major step into space will be the construction of a permanently manned Space Station which is currently under development and scheduled for full operation in the mid-1990's. Most of the construction of the Space Station will be performed over several flights by suited crew members during an extravehicular activity (EVA) from the Space Shuttle. Once fully operational, EVA's will be performed from the Space Station on a routine basis to provide, among other services, maintenance and repair operations of satellites currently in Earth orbit. Both voice recognition and helmet-mounted display technologies can improve the productivity of workers in space by potentially reducing the time, risk, and cost involved in performing EVA. NASA has recognized this potential and is currently developing a voice-controlled information system for Space Station EVA. Two bench-model helmet-mounted displays and an EVA simulation program have been developed to demonstrate the functionality and practicality of the system.

A Fully Redundant On-Line Mass Spectrometer System Used to Monitor Cryogenic Fuel Leaks on the Space Shuttle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Griffin, Timothy P.; Naylor, Guy R.; Haskell, William D.; Breznik, Greg S.; Mizell, Carolyn A.; Helms, William R.; Steinrock, T. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

An on-line gas monitoring system was developed to replace the older systems used to monitor for cryogenic leaks on the Space Shuttles before launch. The system uses a mass spectrometer to monitor multiple locations in the process, which allows the system to monitor all gas constituents of interest in a nearly simultaneous manner. The system is fully redundant and meets all requirements for ground support equipment (GSE). This includes ruggedness to withstand launch on the Mobile Launcher Platform (MLP), ease of operation, and minimal operator intervention. The system can be fully automated so that an operator is notified when an unusual situation or fault is detected. User inputs are through personal computer using mouse and keyboard commands. The graphical user interface is very intuitive and easy to operate. The system has successfully supported four launches to date. It is currently being permanently installed as the primary system monitoring the Space Shuttles during ground processing and launch operations. Time and cost savings will be substantial over the current systems when it is fully implemented in the field. Tests were performed to demonstrate the performance of the system. Low limits-of-detection coupled with small drift make the system a major enhancement over the current systems. Though this system is currently optimized for detecting cryogenic leaks, many other gas constituents could be monitored using the Hazardous Gas Detection System (HGDS) 2000.

CombiMotif: A new algorithm for network motifs discovery in protein-protein interaction networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, Jiawei; Li, Guanghui; Song, Dan; Liang, Cheng

2014-12-01

Discovering motifs in protein-protein interaction networks is becoming a current major challenge in computational biology, since the distribution of the number of network motifs can reveal significant systemic differences among species. However, this task can be computationally expensive because of the involvement of graph isomorphic detection. In this paper, we present a new algorithm (CombiMotif) that incorporates combinatorial techniques to count non-induced occurrences of subgraph topologies in the form of trees. The efficiency of our algorithm is demonstrated by comparing the obtained results with the current state-of-the art subgraph counting algorithms. We also show major differences between unicellular and multicellular organisms. The datasets and source code of CombiMotif are freely available upon request.

Intestinal Microbiota: Facts and Fiction.

PubMed

Kverka, Miloslav; Tlaskalová-Hogenová, Helena

2017-01-01

In humans, the gut microbiota forms a complex ecosystem consisting of a vast number of bacteria, Archaea, fungi and viruses. It represents a major stimulus to the development of the immune system and many other physiological functions, so that it may shape the individual's susceptibility to infectious and immune-mediated diseases. The emergence of new '-omics' methods recently revolutionized the way we study the host-microbe interactions, but they also raised new questions and issues. In this review, we discuss the impact of these new data on the current and future therapies for chronic inflammatory diseases. We also outline the major conceptual, technical and interpretational issues that recently led to some misleading conclusions and discuss in brief the current research directions in the field. © 2017 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Status of the Node 3 Regenerative Environmental Cpntrol& Life Support System Water Recovery & Oxygen Generation Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carrasquillo, Robyn L.

2003-01-01

NASA s Marshall Space Flight Center is providing three racks containing regenerative water recovery and oxygen generation systems (WRS and OGS) for flight on the lnternational Space Station s (ISS) Node 3 element. The major assemblies included in these racks are the Water Processor Assembly (WPA), Urine Processor Assembly (UPA), Oxygen Generation Assembly (OGA), and the Power Supply Module (PSM) supporting the OGA. The WPA and OGA are provided by Hamilton Sundstrand Space Systems lnternational (HSSSI), while the UPA and PSM are being designed and manufactured in-house by MSFC. The assemblies are currently in the manufacturing and test phase and are to be completed and integrated into flight racks this year. This paper gives an overview of the technologies and system designs, technical challenges encountered and solved, and the current status.

Feasibility of an anticipatory noncontact precrash restraint actuation system

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

Kercel, S.W.; Dress, W.B.

1995-12-31

The problem of providing an electronic warning of an impending crash to a precrash restraint system a fraction of a second before physical contact differs from more widely explored problems, such as providing several seconds of crash warning to a driver. One approach to precrash restraint sensing is to apply anticipatory system theory. This consists of nested simplified models of the system to be controlled and of the system`s environment. It requires sensory information to describe the ``current state`` of the system and the environment. The models use the sensory data to make a faster-than-real-time prediction about the near future.more » Anticipation theory is well founded but rarely used. A major problem is to extract real-time current-state information from inexpensive sensors. Providing current-state information to the nested models is the weakest element of the system. Therefore, sensors and real-time processing of sensor signals command the most attention in an assessment of system feasibility. This paper describes problem definition, potential ``showstoppers,`` and ways to overcome them. It includes experiments showing that inexpensive radar is a practical sensing element. It considers fast and inexpensive algorithms to extract information from sensor data.« less

Qumquad: a UML-based approach for remodeling of legacy systems in health care.

PubMed

Garde, Sebastian; Knaup, Petra; Herold, Ralf

2003-07-01

Health care information systems still comprise legacy systems to a certain extent. For reengineering legacy systems a thorough remodeling is inalienable. Current modeling techniques like the Unified Modeling Language (UML) do not offer a systematic and comprehensive process-oriented method for remodeling activities. We developed a systematic method for remodeling legacy systems in health care called Qumquad. Qumquad consists of three major steps: (i) modeling the actual state of the application system, (ii) systematic identification of weak points in this model and (iii) development of a target concept for the reimplementation considering the identified weak points. We applied Qumquad for remodeling a documentation and therapy planning system for pediatric oncology (DOSPO). As a result of our remodeling activities we regained an abstract model of the system, an analysis of the current weak points of DOSPO and possible (partly alternative) solutions to overcome the weak points. Qumquad proved to be very helpful in the reengineering process of DOSPO since we now have at our disposal a comprehensive model for the reimplementation of DOSPO that current users of the system agree on. Qumquad can easily be applied to other reengineering projects in health care.

Radiopharmaceuticals in nuclear medicine practice

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

Kowalsky, R.J.; Perry, J.R.

1987-01-01

This book discusses the basic principles and clinical applications of radiopharmaceuticals. Topics include atomic physics as applied to radiopharmaceuticals, radionuclide generator function, nuclear pharmacy and safety, and radiopharmaceutical use in evaluating the major organ systems of the body. For each body system the author explains rationale for use, typical procedures, current agents of choice, and interpretation of results. Images, tables, and graphs illustrate normal and abnormal studies.

TERSSE: Definition of the Total Earth Resources System for the Shuttle Era. Volume 2: An Assessment of the Current State-of-the-Art

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

Results of a state-of-the-art assessment of technology areas which affect the Earth Resources Program are presented along with a functional description of the basic earth resources system. Major areas discussed include: spacecraft flight hardware, remote sensors, data processing techniques and hardware, user models, user interfaces, and operations technology.

Major Management Challenges and Program Risks. Department of Agriculture

DTIC Science & Technology

2001-01-01

environment, ensure food safety , improve the well-being of rural America, promote domestic marketing and the export of food and farm products, conduct...meat and poultry. USDA must also determine if foreign countries have implemented equivalent food safety and inspection systems before those countries...continuing fundamental problem facing USDA, namely, that the current food safety system is highly fragmented with as many as 12 different federal

In-Firm Trainers of Young People in the Framework of the Dual Vocational Training System of the Federal Republic of Germany.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

von Gilardi, Rudiger; Schulz, Winfried

This study of the vocational training system in the Federal Republic of Germany was conducted by the European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training through site visits, seminars, research papers, and discussion. The study found that the majority of young people in the Federal Republic of Germany (currently 1.8 million) receive their…

Teacher Recruitment and Retention: A Study of Why Teachers Stay in a Suburban School District in the Southeastern United States

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Williams, Fabby Terry

2017-01-01

One of the major challenges currently facing public school systems and administrators around the country is the shortage of certified teachers in classrooms. In addition, when school systems are able to find and hire properly certified teachers, school administrators face an even greater challenge in terms of keeping or retaining them. In the…

What Lies Beyond the Online Catalog?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Matthews, Joseph R.; And Others

1985-01-01

Five prominent consultants project technological advancements that, in some cases, will enhance current library systems, and in many cases will cause them to become obsolete. Major trends include advances in mainframe and microcomputing technology, development of inexpensive local area networks and telecommunications gateways, and the advent of…

Trustee Quarterly, 1995.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Trustee Quarterly, 1995

1995-01-01

The four issues of "Trustee Quarterly" contained in this document focus on topics of current concern to community college trustees. The winter 1995 issue offers these feature articles: "Trustees Believe Focus Should Be on Major Policy Decisions," (John F. Grabowski) and "A Cost-Benefit Analysis System for Proposed Capital…

Australian defence requirements and initiatives in smart materials and structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilson, Alan R.; Galea, Stephen C.; Scala, Christine; Wong, Albert

2002-11-01

The Australian Defence Force is increasingly facing escalating costs on through-life support for major platforms (ships, aircraft and land vehicles). The application of smart materials and structures technologies in platform management systems is seen as a very promising approach to reduce these costs and to potentially achieve significant enhancement of platform capability. A new DSTO Key Initiative, 'Smart Materials and Structures', has been recently developed and funded to address these technologies. The Initiative will build on and grow the current activities within DSTO and promote collaboration with external Australian institutes and industry. This paper will present an overview of the Initiative and the generic sensor and system issues inherent in the 'whole-of-platform' and 'whole-of-life' monitoring and management of major defence platforms. Examples for some particular elements of this will be drawn from current work in DSTO. Other presentations in the conference will cover the technical and scientific aspects of these in more detail.

Oxygen tension in embryo culture: does a shift to 2% O2 in extended culture represent the most physiologic system?

PubMed

Morin, Scott J

2017-03-01

There has been much debate regarding the optimal oxygen tension in clinical embryo culture. The majority of the literature to date has compared 5% oxygen to atmospheric levels (20-21%). While the majority of modern IVF labs have accepted the superiority of 5% oxygen tension, a new debate has emerged regarding whether a further reduction after day 3 of development represents the most physiologic system. This new avenue of research is based on the premise that oxygen tension is in fact lower in the uterus than in the oviduct and that the embryo crosses the uterotubal junction sometime on day 3. While data are currently limited, recent experience with ultra-low oxygen (2%) after day 3 of development suggests that the optimal oxygen tension in embryo culture may depend on the stage of development. This review article will consider the current state of the literature and discuss ongoing efforts at studying ultra-low oxygen tension in extended culture.

Retrofit photovoltaic systems for intermediate sized applications - A design and market study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noel, G. T.; Hagely, J. R.

An assessment of the technical and economic feasibility of retrofitting a significant portion of the existing intermediate sector building/application inventory with photovoltaic systems is presented. The assessment includes the development of detailed engineering and architectural designs as well as cost estimates for 12 representative installations. Promising applications include retail stores, warehouses, office buildings, religious buildings, shopping centers, education buildings, hospitals, and industrial sites. A market study indicates that there is a national invetory of 1.5 to 2.0 million feasible intermediate sector applications, with the majority being in the 20 to 400 kW size range. The present cost of the major systems components and the cost of necessary building modifications are the primary current barriers to the realization of a large retrofit photovoltaic system market. The development of standardized modular system designs and installation techniques are feasible ways to minimize costs.

Energy use in pig production: an examination of current Iowa systems.

PubMed

Lammers, P J; Kenealy, M D; Kliebenstein, J B; Harmon, J D; Helmers, M J; Honeyman, M S

2012-03-01

This paper compares energy use for different pig production systems in Iowa, a leader in US swine production. Pig production systems include not only the growth and performance of the pigs, but also the supporting infrastructure of pig production. This supporting infrastructure includes swine housing, facility management, feedstuff provision, swine diets, and manure management. Six different facility type × diet formulation × cropping sequence scenarios were modeled and compared. The baseline system examined produces 15,600 pigs annually using confinement facilities and a corn-soybean cropping sequence. Diet formulations for the baseline system were corn-soybean meal diets that included the synthetic AA l-lysine and exogenous phytase. The baseline system represents the majority of current US pork production in the Upper Midwest, where most US swine are produced. This system was found to require 744.6 MJ per 136-kg market pig. An alternative system that uses bedded hoop barns for grow-finish pigs and gestating sows would require 3% less (720.8 MJ) energy per 136-kg market pig. When swine production systems were assessed, diet type and feed ingredient processing were the major influences on energy use, accounting for 61 and 79% of total energy in conventional and hoop barn-based systems, respectively. Improving feed efficiency and better matching the diet formulation with the thermal environment and genetic potential are thus key aspects of reducing energy use by pig production, particularly in a hoop barn-based system. The most energy-intensive aspect of provisioning pig feed is the production of synthetic N for crop production; thus, effectively recycling manure nutrients to cropland is another important avenue for future research. Almost 25% of energy use by a conventional farrow-to-finish pig production system is attributable to operation of the swine buildings. Developing strategies to minimize energy use for heating and ventilation of swine buildings while maintaining pig comfort and performance is a third critical area for future research. The hoop barn-based alternative uses 64% less energy to operate buildings but requires bedding and 2.4% more feed. Current Iowa pig production systems use energy differently but result in similar total energy use. Compared with 1975, current farrow-to-finish systems in Iowa require 80% less energy to produce live market pigs.

Automated eddy current analysis of materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Workman, Gary L.

1990-01-01

This research effort focused on the use of eddy current techniques for characterizing flaws in graphite-based filament-wound cylindrical structures. A major emphasis was on incorporating artificial intelligence techniques into the signal analysis portion of the inspection process. Developing an eddy current scanning system using a commercial robot for inspecting graphite structures (and others) has been a goal in the overall concept and is essential for the final implementation for expert system interpretation. Manual scans, as performed in the preliminary work here, do not provide sufficiently reproducible eddy current signatures to be easily built into a real time expert system. The expert systems approach to eddy current signal analysis requires that a suitable knowledge base exist in which correct decisions as to the nature of the flaw can be performed. In eddy current or any other expert systems used to analyze signals in real time in a production environment, it is important to simplify computational procedures as much as possible. For that reason, we have chosen to use the measured resistance and reactance values for the preliminary aspects of this work. A simple computation, such as phase angle of the signal, is certainly within the real time processing capability of the computer system. In the work described here, there is a balance between physical measurements and finite element calculations of those measurements. The goal is to evolve into the most cost effective procedures for maintaining the correctness of the knowledge base.

Failure Control Techniques for the SSME

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taniguchi, M. H.

1987-01-01

Since ground testing of the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) began in 1975, the detection of engine anomalies and the prevention of major damage have been achieved by a multi-faceted detection/shutdown system. The system continues the monitoring task today and consists of the following: sensors, automatic redline and other limit logic, redundant sensors and controller voting logic, conditional decision logic, and human monitoring. Typically, on the order of 300 to 500 measurements are sensed and recorded for each test, while on the order of 100 are used for control and monitoring. Despite extensive monitoring by the current detection system, twenty-seven (27) major incidents have occurred. This number would appear insignificant compared with over 1200 hot-fire tests which have taken place since 1976. However, the number suggests the requirement for and future benefits of a more advanced failure detection system.

Space Station Freedom CHeCS overview. [Crew Health Care System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boyce, Joey B.

1990-01-01

The current status, progress, and future plans for development of the Crew Health Care System (CHeCS) for the International Space Station Freedom are presented. Essential operational biomedical support requirements for the astronauts, including medical care, environmental habitat monitoring, and countermeasures for the potentially maladaptive physiological effects of space flight will be provided by the CHeCS. Three integral parts will make up the system: a health maintenance facility, an environmental health system, and the exercise countermeasures facility. Details of each of the major systems and their subsystems are presented.

Working group report on advanced high-voltage high-power and energy-storage space systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cohen, H. A.; Cooke, D. L.; Evans, R. W.; Hastings, D.; Jongeward, G.; Laframboise, J. G.; Mahaffey, D.; Mcintyre, B.; Pfizer, K. A.; Purvis, C.

1986-01-01

Space systems in the future will probably include high-voltage, high-power energy-storage and -production systems. Two such technologies are high-voltage ac and dc systems and high-power electrodynamic tethers. The working group identified several plasma interaction phenomena that will occur in the operation of these power systems. The working group felt that building an understanding of these critical interaction issues meant that several gaps in our knowledge had to be filled, and that certain aspects of dc power systems have become fairly well understood. Examples of these current collection are in quiescent plasmas and snap over effects. However, high-voltage dc and almost all ac phenomena are, at best, inadequately understood. In addition, there is major uncertainty in the knowledge of coupling between plasmas and large scale current flows in space plasmas. These gaps in the knowledge are addressed.

The Learning Healthcare System and Cardiovascular Care: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association.

PubMed

Maddox, Thomas M; Albert, Nancy M; Borden, William B; Curtis, Lesley H; Ferguson, T Bruce; Kao, David P; Marcus, Gregory M; Peterson, Eric D; Redberg, Rita; Rumsfeld, John S; Shah, Nilay D; Tcheng, James E

2017-04-04

The learning healthcare system uses health information technology and the health data infrastructure to apply scientific evidence at the point of clinical care while simultaneously collecting insights from that care to promote innovation in optimal healthcare delivery and to fuel new scientific discovery. To achieve these goals, the learning healthcare system requires systematic redesign of the current healthcare system, focusing on 4 major domains: science and informatics, patient-clinician partnerships, incentives, and development of a continuous learning culture. This scientific statement provides an overview of how these learning healthcare system domains can be realized in cardiovascular disease care. Current cardiovascular disease care innovations in informatics, data uses, patient engagement, continuous learning culture, and incentives are profiled. In addition, recommendations for next steps for the development of a learning healthcare system in cardiovascular care are presented. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

L(sub 1) Adaptive Flight Control System: Flight Evaluation and Technology Transition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Xargay, Enric; Hovakimyan, Naira; Dobrokhodov, Vladimir; Kaminer, Isaac; Gregory, Irene M.; Cao, Chengyu

2010-01-01

Certification of adaptive control technologies for both manned and unmanned aircraft represent a major challenge for current Verification and Validation techniques. A (missing) key step towards flight certification of adaptive flight control systems is the definition and development of analysis tools and methods to support Verification and Validation for nonlinear systems, similar to the procedures currently used for linear systems. In this paper, we describe and demonstrate the advantages of L(sub l) adaptive control architectures for closing some of the gaps in certification of adaptive flight control systems, which may facilitate the transition of adaptive control into military and commercial aerospace applications. As illustrative examples, we present the results of a piloted simulation evaluation on the NASA AirSTAR flight test vehicle, and results of an extensive flight test program conducted by the Naval Postgraduate School to demonstrate the advantages of L(sub l) adaptive control as a verifiable robust adaptive flight control system.

[Issues of biomedical support of explorations missions].

PubMed

Potapov, A N; Sinyak, Yu E; Petrov, V M

2013-01-01

Sine qua non for piloted exploration missions is a system of biomedical support. The future system will be considerably different from the analogous systems applied in current orbital missions. The reason is the challenging conditions in expeditions to remote space. In a mission to Mars, specifically, these are high levels of radiation, hypomagnetic environment, alternation of micro- and hypogravity, very long mission duration and autonomy. The paper scrutinizes the major issues of medical support to future explorers of space.

National Computer Security Conference (13th) Held in Washington, DC on 1-4 October, 1990. Procedings. Volume 1: Information Systems Security: Standards - The Key to the Future

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-10-04

methods Category 6: Cryptographic methods (hard/ software ) - Tested countermeasures and standard means - Acknowledgements As the number of antivirus ...Skulason), only our own antiviruses have been mentioned in the catalog. We hope to include the major antivirus packages in the future. The current...Center GTE SRI International Trusted Information Systems, Inc. Grumann Data Systems SRI International Software Engineering Institute Trusted

Wireless wearable range-of-motion sensor system for upper and lower extremity joints: a validation study.

PubMed

Kumar, Yogaprakash; Yen, Shih-Cheng; Tay, Arthur; Lee, Wangwei; Gao, Fan; Zhao, Ziyi; Li, Jingze; Hon, Benjamin; Tian-Ma Xu, Tim; Cheong, Angela; Koh, Karen; Ng, Yee-Sien; Chew, Effie; Koh, Gerald

2015-02-01

Range-of-motion (ROM) assessment is a critical assessment tool during the rehabilitation process. The conventional approach uses the goniometer which remains the most reliable instrument but it is usually time-consuming and subject to both intra- and inter-therapist measurement errors. An automated wireless wearable sensor system for the measurement of ROM has previously been developed by the current authors. Presented is the correlation and accuracy of the automated wireless wearable sensor system against a goniometer in measuring ROM in the major joints of upper (UEs) and lower extremities (LEs) in 19 healthy subjects and 20 newly disabled inpatients through intra (same) subject comparison of ROM assessments between the sensor system against goniometer measurements by physical therapists. In healthy subjects, ROM measurements using the new sensor system were highly correlated with goniometry, with 95% of differences < 20° and 10° for most movements in major joints of UE and LE, respectively. Among inpatients undergoing rehabilitation, ROM measurements using the new sensor system were also highly correlated with goniometry, with 95% of the differences being < 20° and 25° for most movements in the major joints of UE and LE, respectively.

Design document for the Surface Currents Data Base (SCDB) Management System (SCDBMS), version 1.0

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Krisnnamagaru, Ramesh; Cesario, Cheryl; Foster, M. S.; Das, Vishnumohan

1994-01-01

The Surface Currents Database Management System (SCDBMS) provides access to the Surface Currents Data Base (SCDB) which is maintained by the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO). The SCDBMS incorporates database technology in providing seamless access to surface current data. The SCDBMS is an interactive software application with a graphical user interface (GUI) that supports user control of SCDBMS functional capabilities. The purpose of this document is to define and describe the structural framework and logistical design of the software components/units which are integrated into the major computer software configuration item (CSCI) identified as the SCDBMS, Version 1.0. The preliminary design is based on functional specifications and requirements identified in the governing Statement of Work prepared by the Naval Oceanographic Office (NAVOCEANO) and distributed as a request for proposal by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).

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

Mancuso, C.A.

The INEL Database of BNCT Information and Treatment (TIDBIT) has been under development for several years. Late in 1993, a new software development team took over the project and did and assessment of the current implementation status, and determined that the user interface was unsatisfactory for the expected users and that the data structures were out of step with the current state of reality. The team evaluated several tools that would improve the user interface to make the system easier to use. Uniface turned out to be the product of choice. During 1994, TIDBIT got its name, underwent a completemore » change of appearance, had a major overhaul to the data structures that support the application, and system documentation was begun. A prototype of the system was demonstrated in September 1994.« less

Autonomous Precision Landing and Hazard Avoidance Technology (ALHAT) Project Status as of May 2010

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Striepe, Scott A.; Epp, Chirold D.; Robertson, Edward A.

2010-01-01

This paper includes the current status of NASA s Autonomous precision Landing and Hazard Avoidance Technology (ALHAT) Project. The ALHAT team has completed several flight tests and two major design analysis cycles. These tests and analyses examine terrain relative navigation sensors, hazard detection and avoidance sensors and algorithms, and hazard relative navigation algorithms, and the guidance and navigation system using these ALHAT functions. The next flight test is scheduled for July 2010. The paper contains results from completed flight tests and analysis cycles. ALHAT system status, upcoming tests and analyses is also addressed. The current ALHAT plans as of May 2010 are discussed. Application of the ALHAT system to landing on bodies other than the Moon is included

Is blunted cardiovascular reactivity in depression mood-state dependent? A comparison of major depressive disorder remitted depression and healthy controls.

PubMed

Salomon, Kristen; Bylsma, Lauren M; White, Kristi E; Panaite, Vanessa; Rottenberg, Jonathan

2013-10-01

Prior work has repeatedly demonstrated that people who have current major depression exhibit blunted cardiovascular reactivity to acute stressors (e.g., Salomon et al., 2009). A key question regards the psychobiological basis for these deficits, including whether such deficits are depressed mood-state dependent or whether these effects are trait-like and are observed outside of depression episodes in vulnerable individuals. To examine this issue, we assessed cardiovascular reactivity to a speech stressor task and a forehead cold pressor in 50 individuals with current major depressive disorder (MDD), 25 with remitted major depression (RMD), and 45 healthy controls. Heart rate (HR), blood pressure and impedance cardiography were assessed and analyses controlled for BMI and sex. Significant group effects were found for SBP, HR, and PEP for the speech preparation period and HR, CO, and PEP during the speech. For each of these parameters, only the MDD group exhibited attenuated reactivity as well as impaired SBP recovery. Reactivity and recovery in the RMD group more closely resembled the healthy controls. Speeches given by the MDD group were rated as less persuasive than the RMD or healthy controls' speeches. No significant differences were found for the cold pressor. Blunted cardiovascular reactivity and impaired recovery in current major depression may be mood-state dependent phenomena and may be more reflective of motivational deficits than deficits in the physiological integrity of the cardiovascular system. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Is blunted cardiovascular reactivity in depression mood-state dependent? A comparison of major depressive disorder remitted depression and healthy controls

PubMed Central

Salomon, Kristen; Bylsma, Lauren M.; White, Kristi E.; Panaite, Vanessa; Rottenberg, Jonathan

2015-01-01

Prior work has repeatedly demonstrated that people who have current major depression exhibit blunted cardiovascular reactivity to acute stressors (e.g., Salomon et al., 2009). A key question regards the psychobiological basis for these deficits, including whether such deficits are depressed mood-state dependent or whether these effects are trait-like and are observed outside of depression episodes invulnerable individuals. To examine this issue, we assessed cardiovascular reactivity to a speech stressor task and a forehead cold pressor in 50 individuals with current major depressive disorder (MDD), 25 with remitted major depression (RMD), and 45 healthy controls. Heart rate (HR), blood pressure and impedance cardiography were assessed and analyses controlled for BMI and sex. Significant group effects were found for SBP, HR, and PEP for the speech preparation period and HR, CO, and PEP during the speech. For each of these parameters, only the MDD group exhibited attenuated reactivity as well as impaired SBP recovery. Reactivity and recovery in the RMD group more closely resembled the healthy controls. Speeches given by the MDD group were rated as less persuasive than the RMD or healthy controls' speeches. No significant differences were found for the cold pressor. Blunted cardiovascular reactivity and impaired recovery in current major depression may be mood-state dependent phenomena and may be more reflective of motivational deficits than deficits in the physiological integrity of the cardiovascular system. PMID:23756147

Electrodynamics of the middle atmosphere: Superpressure balloon program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Holzworth, Robert H.

1987-01-01

In this experiment a comprehensive set of electrical parameters were measured during eight long duration flights in the southern hemisphere stratosphere. These flight resulted in the largest data set ever collected from the stratosphere. The stratosphere has never been electrodynamically sampled in the systematic manner before. New discoveries include short term variability in the planetary scale electric current system, the unexpected observation of stratospheric conductivity variations over thunderstorms and the observation of direct stratospheric conductivity variations following a relatively small solar flare. Major statistical studies were conducted of the large scale current systems, the stratospheric conductivity and the neutral gravity waves (from pressure and temperature data) using the entire data set.

In-Space Propulsion (ISP) Solar Sail Propulsion Technology Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Montgomery, Edward E., IV

2004-01-01

An overview of the rationale and content for Solar Sail Propulsion (SSP), the on-going project to advance solar technology from technology readiness level 3 to 6 will be provided. A descriptive summary of the major and minor component efforts underway will include identification of the technology providers and a listing of anticipated products Recent important results from major system ground demonstrators will be provided. Finally, a current status of all activities will provided along with the most recent roadmap for the SSP technology development program.

Retroperitoneal Liposarcoma: Current Insights in Diagnosis and Treatment

PubMed Central

Matthyssens, Lucas E.; Creytens, David; Ceelen, Wim P.

2015-01-01

Retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RLS) is a rare, biologically heterogeneous tumor that present considerable challenges due to its size and deep location. As a consequence, the majority of patients with high-grade RLS will develop locally recurrent disease following surgery, and this constitutes the cause of death in most patients. Here, we review current insights and controversies regarding histology, molecular biology, extent of surgery, (neo)adjuvant treatment, and systemic treatment including novel targeted agents in RLS. PMID:25713799

Natural Language Processing: Toward Large-Scale, Robust Systems.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haas, Stephanie W.

1996-01-01

Natural language processing (NLP) is concerned with getting computers to do useful things with natural language. Major applications include machine translation, text generation, information retrieval, and natural language interfaces. Reviews important developments since 1987 that have led to advances in NLP; current NLP applications; and problems…

New trial engineers immune cells to treat solid tumors | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

No existing systemic treatments can currently eradicate the great majority of metastatic solid cancers. To meet that need, Steve Rosenberg, M.D., Ph.D., is testing a new immunotherapy that targets each tumor’s unique genetic mutations in a clinical trial.

Evaluating the effect of microalgal biomass on soil-plant-water systems

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Exploring all possible applications of microalgal biomass is crucial to strengthen the current algal industry and reducing the environmental impacts of agriculture is a major global challenge. Microalgae can play a progressive role as they have the potential to improve soil structure, reduce erosion...

Vascular tumors of the choroid and retina

PubMed Central

Shanmugam, P Mahesh; Ramanjulu, Rajesh

2015-01-01

Vascular tumors of the retina and choroid can be seen occasionally. In the following article, the key clinical and diagnostic features of the major retinal and choroidal vascular tumors, their systemic associations, and the literature pertaining to the most currently available treatment strategies are reviewed. PMID:25827544

Evaluation of OSCAR ocean surface current product in the tropical Indian Ocean using in situ data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sikhakolli, Rajesh; Sharma, Rashmi; Basu, Sujit; Gohil, B. S.; Sarkar, Abhijit; Prasad, K. V. S. R.

2013-02-01

The OSCAR (ocean surface current analysis real-time), which is a product derived from various satellite observations, has been evaluated in the tropical Indian Ocean (TIO) in two different ways. First, the OSCAR-derived monthly climatology has been compared with available drifter-derived climatology in the TIO. From the comparison of the two climatologies, one can infer that OSCAR product is able to capture the variabilities of the well-known surface current systems in the TIO reasonably well. Fourier analysis of the major current systems, as reproduced by OSCAR, shows that the dominant annual and semiannual periodicities, known to exist in these systems, have been faithfully picked up by OSCAR. Next, the evaluation has been carried out by comparing the OSCAR currents with currents measured by moored buoys. The zonal component of OSCAR-current is in good agreement with corresponding component of buoy-observed current with a correlation exceeding 0.7, while the match between the meridional components is poorer. The locations of the peaks of the mean and eddy kinetic energies are matching in both the climatologies, although the peak in the drifter climatology is stronger than the same in the OSCAR product. Finally, an important feature of Indian Ocean circulation, namely the reverse Wyrtki jet, occurring during anomalous dipole years, has been well-reproduced by OSCAR currents.

Managing major chemical accidents in China: towards effective risk information.

PubMed

He, Guizhen; Zhang, Lei; Lu, Yonglong; Mol, Arthur P J

2011-03-15

Chemical industries, from their very inception, have been controversial due to the high risks they impose on safety of human beings and the environment. Recent decades have witnessed increasing impacts of the accelerating expansion of chemical industries and chemical accidents have become a major contributor to environmental and health risks in China. This calls for the establishment of an effective chemical risk management system, which requires reliable, accurate and comprehensive data in the first place. However, the current chemical accident-related data system is highly fragmented and incomplete, as different responsible authorities adopt different data collection standards and procedures for different purposes. In building a more comprehensive, integrated and effective information system, this article: (i) reviews and assesses the existing data sources and data management, (ii) analyzes data on 976 recorded major hazardous chemical accidents in China over the last 40 years, and (iii) identifies the improvements required for developing integrated risk management in China. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Design trade-offs among shunt current, pumping loss and compactness in the piping system of a multi-stack vanadium flow battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ye, Qiang; Hu, Jing; Cheng, Ping; Ma, Zhiqi

2015-11-01

Trade-off between shunt current loss and pumping loss is a major challenge in the design of the electrolyte piping network in a flow battery system. It is generally recognized that longer and thinner ducts are beneficial to reduce shunt current but detrimental to minimize pumping power. Base on the developed analog circuit model and the flow network model, we make case studies of multi-stack vanadium flow battery piping systems and demonstrate that both shunt current and electrolyte flow resistance can be simultaneously minimized by using longer and thicker ducts in the piping network. However, extremely long and/or thick ducts lead to a bulky system and may be prohibited by the stack structure. Accordingly, the intrinsic design trade-off is between system efficiency and compactness. Since multi-stack configurations bring both flexibility and complexity to the design process, we perform systematic comparisons among representative piping system designs to illustrate the complicated trade-offs among numerous parameters including stack number, intra-stack channel resistance and inter-stack pipe resistance. As the final design depends on various technical and economical requirements, this paper aims to provide guidelines rather than solutions for designers to locate the optimal trade-off points according to their specific cases.

Review of NASA short-haul studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kenyon, G. C.

1975-01-01

The paper summarizes the results of NASA-conducted technological and economic studies of low, medium, and high density short-haul transportation systems. Aircraft concepts considered included CTOL, RTOL, STOL, and general aviation aircraft. For low density systems, it was found that viable air service becomes possible if city pairs are at least 100 km apart and a two-way total travel demand of at least 200 daily passengers exists. Currently available aircraft were found suitable. The medium-density study showed that a 60-passenger twin engine turbofan was the best suited aircraft. For high density systems, STOL appears to be an economically viable means of reducing noise and congestion at major hub airports. Adequate runways 914 m in length or greater either already exist or could be added to most existing major hub airports.

Essential Nutrition and Food Systems Components for School Curricula: Views from Experts in Iran

PubMed Central

SADEGHOLVAD, Sanaz; YEATMAN, Heather; OMIDVAR, Nasrin; PARRISH, Anne-Maree; WORSLEY, Anthony

2017-01-01

Background: This study aimed to investigate food experts’ views on important nutrition and food systems knowledge issues for education purposes at schools in Iran. Methods: In 2012, semi-structured, face-to-face or telephone interviews were conducted with twenty-eight acknowledged Iranian experts in food and nutrition fields. Participants were selected from four major provinces in Iran (Tehran, Isfahan, Fars and Gilan). Open-ended interview questions were used to identify nutrition and food systems knowledge issues, which experts considered as important to be included in school education programs. Qualitative interviews were analyzed thematically using NVivo. Results: A framework of knowledge that would assist Iranian students and school-leavers to make informed decisions in food-related areas was developed, comprising five major clusters and several sub-clusters. Major knowledge clusters included nutrition basics; food production; every day food-related practices; prevalent nutritional health problems in Iran and improvement of students’ ethical attitudes in the food domain. Conclusion: These findings provide a guide to curriculum developers and policy makers to assess current education curricula in order to optimize students’ knowledge of nutrition and food systems. PMID:28845405

The Numerical Propulsion System Simulation: An Overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lytle, John K.

2000-01-01

Advances in computational technology and in physics-based modeling are making large-scale, detailed simulations of complex systems possible within the design environment. For example, the integration of computing, communications, and aerodynamics has reduced the time required to analyze major propulsion system components from days and weeks to minutes and hours. This breakthrough has enabled the detailed simulation of major propulsion system components to become a routine part of designing systems, providing the designer with critical information about the components early in the design process. This paper describes the development of the numerical propulsion system simulation (NPSS), a modular and extensible framework for the integration of multicomponent and multidisciplinary analysis tools using geographically distributed resources such as computing platforms, data bases, and people. The analysis is currently focused on large-scale modeling of complete aircraft engines. This will provide the product developer with a "virtual wind tunnel" that will reduce the number of hardware builds and tests required during the development of advanced aerospace propulsion systems.

Future Earth: Reducing Loss By Automating Response to Earthquake Shaking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allen, R. M.

2014-12-01

Earthquakes pose a significant threat to society in the U.S. and around the world. The risk is easily forgotten given the infrequent recurrence of major damaging events, yet the likelihood of a major earthquake in California in the next 30 years is greater than 99%. As our societal infrastructure becomes ever more interconnected, the potential impacts of these future events are difficult to predict. Yet, the same inter-connected infrastructure also allows us to rapidly detect earthquakes as they begin, and provide seconds, tens or seconds, or a few minutes warning. A demonstration earthquake early warning system is now operating in California and is being expanded to the west coast (www.ShakeAlert.org). In recent earthquakes in the Los Angeles region, alerts were generated that could have provided warning to the vast majority of Los Angelinos who experienced the shaking. Efforts are underway to build a public system. Smartphone technology will be used not only to issue that alerts, but could also be used to collect data, and improve the warnings. The MyShake project at UC Berkeley is currently testing an app that attempts to turn millions of smartphones into earthquake-detectors. As our development of the technology continues, we can anticipate ever-more automated response to earthquake alerts. Already, the BART system in the San Francisco Bay Area automatically stops trains based on the alerts. In the future, elevators will stop, machinery will pause, hazardous materials will be isolated, and self-driving cars will pull-over to the side of the road. In this presentation we will review the current status of the earthquake early warning system in the US. We will illustrate how smartphones can contribute to the system. Finally, we will review applications of the information to reduce future losses.

Molecular mechanisms of hypertension: role of Nox family NADPH oxidases.

PubMed

Sedeek, Mona; Hébert, Richard L; Kennedy, Chris R; Burns, Kevin D; Touyz, Rhian M

2009-03-01

Molecular mechanisms contributing to the pathoetiology of hypertension are complex, involving many interacting systems such as signaling through G protein-coupled receptors, the renin-angiotensin system, vascular inflammation and remodeling, vascular senescence and aging and developmental programming, as highlighted in the current issue of the journal. Common to these systems is NADPH oxidase-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS). This editorial highlights current concepts relating to the production of ROS in hypertension and focuses on the Nox family NADPH oxidases, major sources of free radicals in the cardiovascular and renal systems. ROS play a major role as intracellular signaling molecules to regulate normal biological cellular responses. In pathological conditions, loss of redox homeostasis contributes to vascular oxidative damage. Recent evidence indicates that specific enzymes, the Nox family of NADPH oxidases, have the sole function of generating ROS in a highly regulated fashion in physiological conditions, and that in disease states, hyperactivation of Noxes contributes to oxidative stress and consequent cardiovascular and renal injury. The Nox family comprises seven members, Nox1-Nox7. Nox1, Nox2 (gp91phox-containing NADPH oxidase), Nox4 and Nox5 have been identified in the cardiovascular-renal systems and have been implicated in the pathophysiology of cardiovascular and renal disease. Noxes, which are differentially regulated in hypertension, are major sources of cardiovascular and renal oxidative stress. This has evoked considerable interest because of the possibilities that therapies targeted against specific Nox isoforms to decrease ROS generation or to increase nitric oxide availability or both may be useful in minimizing vascular injury and renal dysfunction, and thereby prevent or regress target organ damage associated with hypertension.

Nowcasting Earthquakes and Tsunamis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rundle, J. B.; Turcotte, D. L.

2017-12-01

The term "nowcasting" refers to the estimation of the current uncertain state of a dynamical system, whereas "forecasting" is a calculation of probabilities of future state(s). Nowcasting is a term that originated in economics and finance, referring to the process of determining the uncertain state of the economy or market indicators such as GDP at the current time by indirect means. We have applied this idea to seismically active regions, where the goal is to determine the current state of a system of faults, and its current level of progress through the earthquake cycle (http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/2016EA000185/full). Advantages of our nowcasting method over forecasting models include: 1) Nowcasting is simply data analysis and does not involve a model having parameters that must be fit to data; 2) We use only earthquake catalog data which generally has known errors and characteristics; and 3) We use area-based analysis rather than fault-based analysis, meaning that the methods work equally well on land and in subduction zones. To use the nowcast method to estimate how far the fault system has progressed through the "cycle" of large recurring earthquakes, we use the global catalog of earthquakes, using "small" earthquakes to determine the level of hazard from "large" earthquakes in the region. We select a "small" region in which the nowcast is to be made, and compute the statistics of a much larger region around the small region. The statistics of the large region are then applied to the small region. For an application, we can define a small region around major global cities, for example a "small" circle of radius 150 km and a depth of 100 km, as well as a "large" earthquake magnitude, for example M6.0. The region of influence of such earthquakes is roughly 150 km radius x 100 km depth, which is the reason these values were selected. We can then compute and rank the seismic risk of the world's major cities in terms of their relative seismic risk. As another application, we can define large rectangular regions of subduction zones and shallow depths to compute the progress of the fault zone towards the next major tsunami-genic earthquake. We can then rank the relative progress of the major subduction zones of the world through their cycles of large earthquakes using this method to determine which zones are most at risk.

Assigning value to energy storage systems at multiple points in an electrical grid

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

Balducci, Patrick J.; Alam, M. Jan E.; Hardy, Trevor D.

This article presents a taxonomy for assigning benefits to the services provided by energy storage systems (ESSs), defines approaches for monetizing the value associated with these services, assigns values to major ESS applications by region based on a review of an extensive set of literature, and summarizes and evaluates the capabilities of several tools currently used to estimate value for specific ESS deployments.

Assigning value to energy storage systems at multiple points in an electrical grid

DOE PAGES

Balducci, Patrick J.; Alam, M. Jan E.; Hardy, Trevor D.; ...

2018-01-01

This article presents a taxonomy for assigning benefits to the services provided by energy storage systems (ESSs), defines approaches for monetizing the value associated with these services, assigns values to major ESS applications by region based on a review of an extensive set of literature, and summarizes and evaluates the capabilities of several tools currently used to estimate value for specific ESS deployments.

Rights of Privacy and Research Needs: A Problem Whose Time Has Arrived.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hayman, John L. Jr.

There is no more fundamental right in our system than the right of privacy--the right to be let alone. Current trends lead to a major assault on this right, and one of the great tests of the viability of our system is its ability to preserve this right in the face of increasing complexity and increasing needs for control. As part of the scientific…

Burn Enhances Toll-Like Receptor Induced Responses by Circulating Leukocytes

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-04-30

Introduction Major burn is associated with a local and sys- temic activation of the innate immune system resulting in a profound inflammatory...plications. Previous studies have shown that responses after burn differ between fixed-tissue immune cells and circulating immune cells [15]. In the current...Abstract: Burn and toll-like receptors (TLR) are associated with innate immune system activation, but the impact of burn on TLR-induced inflammation

Military Compensation: Past, Present and Future. Volume 1. Executive Summary.

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-01-01

Chapter 3 provides an overview of the current military compen- sation system -- i.e., the military pay and allowances system. The major subsystems to...research efforts produced processes for control of shrinkageof wool fabrics. In the US textile industry, wooliteis are nowtreated by these processes...led to development of .4,4continuous dyeing. Ilodern dyeing facilities of large textile • actories throughout the world trace their basic technology

Recommendation of a More Effective Alternative to the NASA Launch Services Program Mission Integration Reporting System (MIRS) and Implementation of Updates to the Mission Plan

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dunn, Michael R.

2014-01-01

Over the course of my internship in the Flight Projects Office of NASA's Launch Services Program (LSP), I worked on two major projects, both of which dealt with updating current systems to make them more accurate and to allow them to operate more efficiently. The first project dealt with the Mission Integration Reporting System (MIRS), a web-accessible database application used to manage and provide mission status reporting for the LSP portfolio of awarded missions. MIRS had not gone through any major updates since its implementation in 2005, and it was my job to formulate a recommendation for the improvement of the system. The second project I worked on dealt with the Mission Plan, a document that contains an overview of the general life cycle that is followed by every LSP mission. My job on this project was to update the information currently in the mission plan and to add certain features in order to increase the accuracy and thoroughness of the document. The outcomes of these projects have implications in the orderly and efficient operation of the Flight Projects Office, and the process of Mission Management in the Launch Services Program as a whole.

Space station systems: A bibliography with indexes (supplement 6)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

This bibliography lists 1,133 reports, articles, and other documents introduced into the NASA scientific and technical information system between July 1, 1987 and December 31, 1987. Its purpose is to provide helpful information to the researcher, manager, and designer in technology development and mission design according to system, interactive analysis and design, structural and thermal analysis and design, structural concepts and control systems, electronics, advanced materials, assembly concepts, propulsion, and solar power satellite systems. The coverage includes documents that define major systems and subsystems, servicing and support requirements, procedures and operations, and missions for the current and future Space Station.

Space station systems: A bibliography with indexes (supplement 3)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1987-01-01

This bibliography lists 780 reports, articles and other documents introduced into the NASA scientific and technical information system between January 1, 1986 and June 30, 1986. Its purpose is to provide helpful information to the researcher, manager, and designer in technology development and mission design according to system, interactive analysis and design, structural and thermal analysis and design, structural concepts and control systems, electronics, advanced materials, assembly concepts, propulsion, and solar power satellite system. The coverage includes documents that define major systems and subsystems, servicing and support requirements, procedures and operations, and missions for the current and future space station.

Space station systems: A bibliography with indexes (supplement 2)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1986-01-01

This bibliography lists 904 reports, articles and other documents introduced into the NASA scientific and technical information system between July 1, 1985 and December 31, 1985. Its purpose is to provide helpful information to the researcher, manager, and designer in technology development and mission design according to system, interactive analysis and design, structural and thermal analysis and design, structural concepts and control systems, electronics, advanced materials, assembly concepts, propulsion, and solar power satellite systems. The coverage includes documents that define major systems and subsystems, servicing and support requirements, procedures and operations, and missions for the current and future space station.

Space station systems: A bibliography with indexes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1987-01-01

This bibliography lists 967 reports, articles, and other documents introduced into the NASA scientific and technical information system between January 1, 1987 and June 30, 1987. Its purpose is to provide helpful information to the researcher, manager, and designer in technology development and mission design according to system, interactive analysis and design, structural and thermal analysis and design, structural concepts and control systems, electronics, advanced materials, assembly concepts, propulsion, and solar power satellite systems. The coverage includes documents that define major systems and subsystems, servicing and support requirements, procedures and operations, and missions for the current and future space station.

Does the NASA Constellation Architecture Offer Opportunities to Achieve Multiple Additional Goals in Space?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thronson, Harley; Lester, Daniel

2008-01-01

Every major NASA human spaceflight program in the last four decades has been modified to achieve goals in space not incorporated within the original design goals: the Apollo Applications Program, Skylab, Space Shuttle, and International Space Station. Several groups in the U.S. have been identifying major future science goals, the science facilities necessary to investigate them, as well as possible roles for augmented versions of elements of NASA's Constellation program. Specifically, teams in the astronomy community have been developing concepts for very capable missions to follow the James Webb Space Telescope that could take advantage of - or require - free-space operations by astronauts and/or robots. Taking as one example, the Single-Aperture Far-InfraRed (SAFIR) telescope with a 10+ m aperture proposed for operation in the 2020 timeframe. According to current NASA plans, the Ares V launch vehicle (or a variant) will be available about the same time, as will the capability to transport astronauts to the vicinity of the Moon via the Orion Crew Exploration Vehicle and associated systems. [As the lunar surface offers no advantages - and major disadvantages - for most major optical systems, the expensive system for landing and operating on the lunar surface is not required.] Although as currently conceived, SAFIR and other astronomical missions will operate at the Sun-Earth L2 location, it appears trivial to travel for servicing to the more accessible Earth-Moon L1,2 locations. Moreover, as the recent Orbital Express and Automated Transfer Vehicle Missions have demonstrated, future robotic capabilities should offer capabilities that would (remotely) extend human presence far beyond the vicinity of the Earth.

Energy storage and thermal control system design status

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simons, Stephen N.; Willhoite, Bryan C.; Vanommering, Gert

1989-01-01

The Space Station Freedom electric power system (EPS) will initially rely on photovoltaics for power generation and Ni/H2 batteries for electrical energy storage. The current design for and the development status of two major subsystems in the PV Power Module is discussed. The energy storage subsystem comprised of high capacity Ni/H2 batteries and the single-phase thermal control system that rejects the excess heat generated by the batteries and other components associated with power generation and storage is described.

Energy storage and thermal control system design status. [for space station power supplies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Simons, Stephen N.; Willhoite, Bryan C.; Van Ommering, Gert

1989-01-01

The Space Station Freedom electric power system (EPS) will initially rely on photovoltaics for power generation and Ni/H2 batteries for electrical energy storage. The current design for the development status of two major subsystems in the PV Power Module is discussed. The energy storage subsystem comprised of high capacity Ni/H2 batteries and the single-phase thermal control system that rejects the excess heat generated by the batteries and other components associated with power generation andstorage is described.

Preliminary design of the Space Station environmental control and life support system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reuter, J. L.; Turner, L. D.; Humphries, W. R.

1988-01-01

This paper outlines the current status of the Space Station Enrivonmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS). The seven subsystem groups which comprise the ECLSS are identified and their functional descriptions are provided. The impact that the nominal and safe haven operating requirements have on the physical distribution, sizing, and number of ECLSS subsystems is described. The role that the major ECLSS interfaces with other Space Station systems and elements play in the ECLSS design is described.

Fate and transformation of graphene oxide in marine systems

EPA Science Inventory

Graphene oxide (GO) may be released into natural waters at different phases of its life cycle. Currently, there is no study on the fate of GO in seawater, which is predicted to be a major sink for many engineered nanomaterials. In this study, the influences of salinity (0-50 &per...

International Mutual Recognition: Progress and Prospects. Working Paper.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hager, Paul

Increasing the mobility of service providers, including professionals, via mutual recognition (of regulatory systems) agreements (MRAs) has become a significant issue worldwide. Despite increasing interest in MRAs, it may be argued that MRAs are but one of a larger range of major developments that have fueled current interest in occupational…

A Review of National Security-Emergency Preparedness Telecommunications Policy.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-02-01

capable of being preempted. The major elements of this conceptual system could, for example, include: all Class 4 and higher switches and a large number of...are competing with the established carriers. 185 The monopoly structure framwork would reverse current trends and place the burden of proof with those

Ethical Issues in the Malaysian Education System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kenayathulla, Husaina Banu

2015-01-01

Malaysia is a multi-ethnic country in which the government gives preferential treatment in education, employment, and ownership to its majority ethnic group: Bumiputera. However, affirmative action policies in the current Malaysian context should work according to John Rawls' Theory of Justice by being based on income rather than ethnicity.…

Emerging Approaches to Counseling Intervention: Theory, Research, Practice, and Training

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Murdock, Nancy L.; Duan, Changming; Nilsson, Johanna E.

2012-01-01

This article provides an overview of the major contribution that presents three emerging approaches to counseling: narrative therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. The three theoretical systems were chosen because they are current, for the most part not addressed in the mainstream counseling psychology…

Instructional Technology in Brazil: A Status Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saettler, Paul

1973-01-01

A status report on the evolving conceptions of instructional technology and current applications in Brazil. A complementary purpose is to summarize those conditions which vitally influence the general characteristics of the Brazilian educational system and the nature of instructional technology in this major developing country of the world.…

Distribution and longevity of Pratylenchus penetrans in the red raspberry production system

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

One of the major production constraints on the production of red raspberries in the Pacific Northwest is the presence of the root lesion nematode Pratylenchus penetrans. Current management of this nematode relies heavily on pre-plant soil fumigation, however regulations have made the practice more d...

Distributed Learning Environment: Major Functions, Implementation, and Continuous Improvement.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Converso, Judith A.; Schaffer, Scott P.; Guerra, Ingrid J.

The content of this paper is based on a development plan currently in design for the U.S. Navy in conjunction with the Learning Systems Institute at Florida State University. Leading research (literature review) references and case study ("best practice") references are presented as supporting evidence for the results-oriented…

Field testing a mobile inelastic neutron scattering system to measure soil carbon

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Cropping history in conjunction with soil management practices can have a major impact on the amount of organic carbon (C) stored in soil. Current methods of assessing soil C based on soil coring and subsequent processing procedures prior to laboratory analysis are labor intensive and time consuming...

Mass Deacidification: An Update on Possibilities and Limitations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Porck, Henk J.

This report provides an update of the possibilities and limitations of currently available mass deacidification methods, focusing on the major developments in research and application of the main operational systems. This study is intended primarily to support the development of a well-considered preservation policy by librarians and archivists,…

Microsatellite genotypes reveal some long distance gene flow in Perkinsus marinus, a major pathogen of eastern oysters

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

As the agent of Dermo disease, Perkinsus marinus causes significant mortality and reduced fecundity in host populations. Passive dispersal of P. marinus between hosts subjects parasite movements to control by water currents in estuarine systems, potentially limiting connectivity among parasite popul...

American Reading Instruction: Pre-Revolutionary Religious Influences.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reutzel, Douglas Ray

To provide some understanding of current reading methodology, this paper traces the history of reading instruction from ancient times to pre-Revolutionary America and examines the influences exerted upon that instruction by religion. The major portion of the paper discusses the cultures, religions, and educational systems of ancient Egypt;…

An Agenda for Education for the Next Generation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldhammer, Keith

Extensive change in the current educational system is needed. The major problems are: (1) Children do not relate their school experience to life experience; (2) The basic purpose, format, and curriculum of schools have not changed fundamentally since medieval times; (3) Fragmented advocacy groups and no central educational organization…

Structural Development of Finnish Universities: Achieving Competitiveness and Academic Excellence

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tirronen, Jarkko; Nokkala, Terhi

2009-01-01

This paper discusses strategic instruments that are used to enhance the competitiveness of Finnish universities in the context of globalisation, internationalisation and commercialisation of research and education. The Finnish higher education system is currently undergoing a major policy reform, which aims to enhance the competitiveness of…

Towards the Next Generation Air Quality Modeling System: Current Progress on Implementing Chemistry into MPAS-A

EPA Science Inventory

The community multiscale air quality (CMAQ) model of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is one of the most widely used air quality model worldwide; it is employed for both research and regulatory applications at major universities and government agencies for improving under...

[The history of the public health reform in Brazil and of the Sistema Único de Saúde: changes, continuities, and the current agenda].

PubMed

Menicucci, Telma Maria Gonçalves

2014-01-01

The paper offers a historical retrospective of Brazil's Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), including its background and its legacy on its current design. It begins describing some of the system's structural problems, especially the co-existence of a public system alongside a private one. It identifies problems that have hampered a firmer solidification of SUS, while it also highlights the immense import of establishing a unified, universal system in a country the size of Brazil. The discussion includes the effects of the system, which has represented a major change in the field of social rights, introducing new actors, and internalizing the notion of health as a right. Lastly, recent developments that have put SUS on the public agenda are discussed.

Staging systems of hepatocellular carcinoma: A review of literature

PubMed Central

Maida, Marcello; Orlando, Emanuele; Cammà, Calogero; Cabibbo, Giuseppe

2014-01-01

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a major health problem with a high incidence and mortality all over the world. Natural history of HCC is severe and extremely variable, and prognostic factors influencing outcomes are incompletely defined. Over time, many staging and scoring systems have been proposed for the classification and prognosis of patients with HCC. Currently, the non-ideal predictive performance of existing prognostic systems is secondary to their inherent limitations, as well as to a non-universal reproducibility and transportability of the results in different populations. New serological and histological markers are still under evaluation with promising results, but they require further evaluation and external validation. The aim of this review is to highlight the main tools for assessing the prognosis of HCC and the main concerns, pitfalls and warnings regarding its staging systems currently in use. PMID:24764652

Scleroderma: nomenclature, etiology, pathogenesis, prognosis, and treatments: facts and controversies.

PubMed

Fett, Nicole

2013-01-01

Scleroderma refers to a heterogeneous group of autoimmune fibrosing disorders. The nomenclature of scleroderma has changed dramatically in recent years, with morphea (localized scleroderma), limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis, diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis, and systemic sclerosis sine scleroderma encompassing the currently accepted disease subtypes. Major advances have been made in the molecular studies of morphea and systemic sclerosis; however, their etiologies and pathogenesis remain incompletely understood. Although morphea and systemic sclerosis demonstrate activation of similar inflammatory and fibrotic pathways, important differences in signaling pathways and gene signatures indicate they are likely biologically distinct processes. Morphea can cause significant morbidity but does not affect mortality, whereas systemic sclerosis has the highest disease-specific mortality of all autoimmune connective tissue diseases. Treatment recommendations for morphea and systemic sclerosis are based on limited data and largely expert opinions. Current collaborative efforts in morphea and systemic sclerosis research will hopefully lead to better understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of these rare and varied diseases and improved treatment options. Published by Elsevier Inc.

[The G-DRG System 2009--relevant changes for rheumatology].

PubMed

Fiori, W; Liedtke-Dyong, A; Lakomek, H-J; Buscham, K; Lehmann, H; Liman, W; Fuchs, A-K; Bessler, F; Roeder, N

2010-05-01

The following article presents the major general and specific changes in the G-DRG system, in the classification systems for diagnoses and procedures as well as for the billing process for 2010. Since the G-DRG system is primarily a tool for the redistribution of resources, every hospital needs to analyze the economic effects of the changes by applying the G-DRG transition-grouper to its own cases. Depending on their clinical focus, rheumatological departments may experience positive or negative consequences from the adjustments. In addition, relevant current case law is considered.

Driver monitoring system for automotive safety

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lörincz, A. E.; Risteiu, M. N.; Ionica, A.; Leba, M.

2018-01-01

The lifestyle of a person is a very active one from all points of view. He travels great distance every day, with car or on foot. Tiredness and stress is found in every person. These can cause major problems when driving up and driving in small or big distances by car. A system developed to prevent the dangers we are prone to in these situations is very useful. System that can be used and implemented both in the production of current cars and the use of those not equipped with this system.

Plasmoid Instability in Forming Current Sheets

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

Comisso, L.; Lingam, M.; Huang, Y. -M.

The plasmoid instability has revolutionized our understanding of magnetic reconnection in astrophysical environments. By preventing the formation of highly elongated reconnection layers, it is crucial in enabling the rapid energy conversion rates that are characteristic of many astrophysical phenomena. Most previous studies have focused on Sweet–Parker current sheets, which are unattainable in typical astrophysical systems. Here we derive a general set of scaling laws for the plasmoid instability in resistive and visco-resistive current sheets that evolve over time. Our method relies on a principle of least time that enables us to determine the properties of the reconnecting current sheet (aspect ratio and elapsed time) and the plasmoid instability (growth rate, wavenumber, inner layer width) at the end of the linear phase. After this phase the reconnecting current sheet is disrupted and fast reconnection can occur. The scaling laws of the plasmoid instability are not simple power laws, and they depend on the Lundquist number (S), the magnetic Prandtl number (P m), the noise of the system (more » $${\\psi }_{0}$$), the characteristic rate of current sheet evolution ($$1/\\tau $$), and the thinning process. We also demonstrate that previous scalings are inapplicable to the vast majority of astrophysical systems. Furthermore, we explore the implications of the new scaling relations in astrophysical systems such as the solar corona and the interstellar medium. In both of these systems, we show that our scaling laws yield values for the growth rate, wavenumber, and aspect ratio that are much smaller than the Sweet–Parker–based scalings.« less

Plasmoid Instability in Forming Current Sheets

DOE PAGES

Comisso, L.; Lingam, M.; Huang, Y. -M.; ...

2017-11-28

The plasmoid instability has revolutionized our understanding of magnetic reconnection in astrophysical environments. By preventing the formation of highly elongated reconnection layers, it is crucial in enabling the rapid energy conversion rates that are characteristic of many astrophysical phenomena. Most previous studies have focused on Sweet–Parker current sheets, which are unattainable in typical astrophysical systems. Here we derive a general set of scaling laws for the plasmoid instability in resistive and visco-resistive current sheets that evolve over time. Our method relies on a principle of least time that enables us to determine the properties of the reconnecting current sheet (aspect ratio and elapsed time) and the plasmoid instability (growth rate, wavenumber, inner layer width) at the end of the linear phase. After this phase the reconnecting current sheet is disrupted and fast reconnection can occur. The scaling laws of the plasmoid instability are not simple power laws, and they depend on the Lundquist number (S), the magnetic Prandtl number (P m), the noise of the system (more » $${\\psi }_{0}$$), the characteristic rate of current sheet evolution ($$1/\\tau $$), and the thinning process. We also demonstrate that previous scalings are inapplicable to the vast majority of astrophysical systems. Furthermore, we explore the implications of the new scaling relations in astrophysical systems such as the solar corona and the interstellar medium. In both of these systems, we show that our scaling laws yield values for the growth rate, wavenumber, and aspect ratio that are much smaller than the Sweet–Parker–based scalings.« less

Modeling of Optical Waveguide Poling and Thermally Stimulated Discharge (TSD) Charge and Current Densities for Guest/Host Electro Optic Polymers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Watson, Michael D.; Ashley, Paul R.; Abushagur, Mustafa

2004-01-01

A charge density and current density model of a waveguide system has been developed to explore the effects of electric field electrode poling. An optical waveguide may be modeled during poling by considering the dielectric charge distribution, polarization charge distribution, and conduction charge generated by the poling field. These charge distributions are the source of poling current densities. The model shows that boundary charge current density and polarization current density are the major source of currents measured during poling and thermally stimulated discharge These charge distributions provide insight into the poling mechanisms and are directly related to E(sub A), and, alpha(sub r). Initial comparisons with experimental data show excellent correlation to the model results.

An approach to forecast major GIC events

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stauning, Peter

2013-04-01

In addition to provide fascinating auroral displays, the large and violent magnetic substorms may endanger power grids and cause problems for a variety of other important technical systems. Such substorms generally result from the build-up of excessive stresses in the magnetospheric tail region caused by imbalance between the transpolar antisunward convection of plasma and embedded magnetic fields and the sunward convection (return flow) at auroral latitudes. The stresses are subsequently released through substorm processes, which may, among other, cause rapidly varying ionospheric currents in the million-ampere range that in turn endanger power grids through the related "Geomagnetically Induced Current" (GIC) effects. The presentation will discuss the construction of a geomagnetic stress parameter based on a combination of polar cap indices and auroral electrojet monitoring to be used in the forecasting of major GIC events.

Environmental management of construction and demolition waste in Kuwait.

PubMed

Kartam, Nabil; Al-Mutairi, Nayef; Al-Ghusain, Ibrahim; Al-Humoud, Jasem

2004-01-01

There is an increasing pressure on the construction industry to reduce costs and improve the quality of our environment. The fact is that both of these goals can be achieved at the same time. Although construction and demolition (C&D) constitutes a major source of waste in terms of volume and weight, its management and recycling efforts have not yet seen the light in Kuwait. This study focuses on recycling efforts leading to the minimization of the total C&D waste that is currently landfilled in Kuwait. This paper presents the current status of C&D waste disposal system in Kuwait and identifies the potential problems to the environment, people and economy. Then, it investigates alternative solutions to manage and control this major type of waste in an economically efficient and environmentally safe manner. Next, the paper describes the feasibility of establishing a C&D waste recycling facility in Kuwait. It concludes by highlighting the major benefits and bottleneck problems with such a recycling facility.

[Current concepts in pathophysiology of CRPS I].

PubMed

Nickel, F T; Maihöfner, C

2010-02-01

Knowledge about the pathophysiology underlying the complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) has increased over the last years. Classically, CRPS has been considered to be mainly driven by sympathetic dysfunction with sympathetically maintained pain being its major pathogenetic mechanism. Currently, the disease is understood as result of a complex interplay between altered somatosensory, motor, autonomic and inflammatory systems. Peripheral and central sensitization is a common feature in CRPS as in other neuropathic pain syndromes. One important mechanism is the sensitization of spinal dorsal horn cells via activation of postsynaptic NMDA-receptors by chronic C-fiber input. Differential activity of endogenous pain modulating systems may play a pivotal role in the development of CRPS, too. Neuronal plasticity of the somatosensory cortex accounts for central sensory signs. Also the motor system is subject to central adaptive changes in patients with CRPS. Calcitonin-gene related peptide (CGRP) and substance P mediate neurogenic inflammation. Additionally other proinflammatory cytokines involved in the inflammatory response in CRPS have been identified. In terms of the sympathetic nervous system, recent evidence rather points to a sensitization of adrenergic receptors than to increased efferent sympathetic activity. Particularly the expression of alpha (1)-adrenoceptors on nociceptive C-fibers may play a major role. These pathophysiological ideas do not exclude each other. In fact they complement one another. The variety of the involved systems may explain the versatile clinical picture of CRPS. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart, New York.

Major bacterial lineages are essentially devoid of CRISPR-Cas viral defence systems

DOE PAGES

Burstein, David; Sun, Christine L.; Brown, Christopher T.; ...

2016-02-03

Here, current understanding of microorganism–virus interactions, which shape the evolution and functioning of Earth’s ecosystems, is based primarily on cultivated organisms. Here we investigate thousands of viral and microbial genomes recovered using a cultivation independent approach to study the frequency, variety and taxonomic distribution of viral defence mechanisms. CRISPR-Cas systems that confer microorganisms with immunity to viruses are present in only 10% of 1,724 sampled microorganisms, compared with previous reports of 40% occurrence in bacteria and 81% in archaea. We attribute this large difference to the lack of CRISPR-Cas systems across major bacterial lineages that have no cultivated representatives. Wemore » correlate absence of CRISPR-Cas with lack of nucleotide biosynthesis capacity and a symbiotic lifestyle. Restriction systems are well represented in these lineages and might provide both non-specific viral defence and access to nucleotides.« less

Major bacterial lineages are essentially devoid of CRISPR-Cas viral defence systems

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

Burstein, David; Sun, Christine L.; Brown, Christopher T.

Here, current understanding of microorganism–virus interactions, which shape the evolution and functioning of Earth’s ecosystems, is based primarily on cultivated organisms. Here we investigate thousands of viral and microbial genomes recovered using a cultivation independent approach to study the frequency, variety and taxonomic distribution of viral defence mechanisms. CRISPR-Cas systems that confer microorganisms with immunity to viruses are present in only 10% of 1,724 sampled microorganisms, compared with previous reports of 40% occurrence in bacteria and 81% in archaea. We attribute this large difference to the lack of CRISPR-Cas systems across major bacterial lineages that have no cultivated representatives. Wemore » correlate absence of CRISPR-Cas with lack of nucleotide biosynthesis capacity and a symbiotic lifestyle. Restriction systems are well represented in these lineages and might provide both non-specific viral defence and access to nucleotides.« less

Development of a health care systems curriculum.

PubMed

Pruitt, Zachary; Mhaskar, Rahul; Kane, Bryan G; Barraco, Robert D; DeWaay, Deborah J; Rosenau, Alex M; Bresnan, Kristin A; Greenberg, Marna Rayl

2017-01-01

There is currently no gold standard for delivery of systems-based practice in medical education, and it is challenging to incorporate into medical education. Health systems competence requires physicians to understand patient care within the broader health care system and is vital to improving the quality of care clinicians provide. We describe a health systems curriculum that utilizes problem-based learning across 4 years of systems-based practice medical education at a single institution. This case study describes the application of a problem-based learning approach to system-based practice medical education. A series of behavioral statements, called entrustable professional activities, was created to assess student health system competence. Student evaluation of course curriculum design, delivery, and assessment was provided through web-based surveys. To meet competency standards for system-based practice, a health systems curriculum was developed and delivered across 4 years of medical school training. Each of the health system lectures and problem-based learning activities are described herein. The majority of first and second year medical students stated they gained working knowledge of health systems by engaging in these sessions. The majority of the 2016 graduating students (88.24%) felt that the course content, overall, prepared them for their career. A health systems curriculum in undergraduate medical education using a problem-based learning approach is feasible. The majority of students learning health systems curriculum through this format reported being prepared to improve individual patient care and optimize the health system's value (better care and health for lower cost).

School hearing screening programme in the UK: practice and performance

PubMed Central

Fonseca, S; Forsyth, H; Neary, W

2005-01-01

Background: Paediatric audiology services and screening programmes are currently under review. Aims and Methods: To investigate current practice and performance of the school hearing screening programme (SHSP) by means of a questionnaire. Results: SHSP was found to detect previously unrecognised hearing loss at low cost. Wide variation in practice was shown, and the majority of services had no computerised system for data collection. Conclusion: There is a need for nationally agreed protocols and quality assurance procedures. PMID:15665168

Animal manure digestion systems in central Europe

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

Koeberle, E.

1996-01-01

This work provides an overview of existing plants in Europe and describes the substrates being used. It focuses on the individual farm-scale and community plants, as these are the two main types now being built. It also describes plants currently under construction, especially in Germany and Denmark, where the major efforts are focused. A description of how the technique has developed over the past few years, its current state of development, the motivation and economic balance, and the substrate characteristics, is presented.

2005 Tri-Service Infrastructure Systems Conference and Exhibition. Volume 8, Track 8 Continued

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-08-04

Dennis Mekkers and Daniel M. Katz Current Research in Fate Current Research in Fate & Transport of Chemical and Biological Contaminants in Water...past boil activity, FSg = 1 • Minor boil or heavy seepage, FSg = 1.25 • Major boil activity, FSg = 1.5 The ratio 1:1.5 approximates (Critical State...prolonging life of road – SSB performed best under heavy traffic – If heavy traffic is possible, road should include a subbase Summary • Maintenance

Comparison of the Standard of Air Leakage in Current Metal Duct Systems in the World

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di, Yuhui; Wang, Jiqian; Feng, Lu; Li, Xingwu; Hu, Chunlin; Shi, Junshe; Xu, Qingsong; Qiao, Leilei

2018-01-01

Based on the requirements of air leakage of metal ducts in Chinese design standards, technical measures and construction standards, this paper compares the development history, the classification of air pressure levels and the air tightness levels of air leakage standards of current Chinese and international metal ducts, sums up the differences, finds shortage by investigating the design and construction status and access to information, and makes recommendations, hoping to help the majority of engineering and technical personnel.

Stochastic Petri net analysis of a replicated file system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bechta Dugan, Joanne; Ciardo, Gianfranco

1989-01-01

A stochastic Petri-net model of a replicated file system is presented for a distributed environment where replicated files reside on different hosts and a voting algorithm is used to maintain consistency. Witnesses, which simply record the status of the file but contain no data, can be used in addition to or in place of files to reduce overhead. A model sufficiently detailed to include file status (current or out-of-date), as well as failure and repair of hosts where copies or witnesses reside, is presented. The number of copies and witnesses is a parameter of the model. Two different majority protocols are examined, one where a majority of all copies and witnesses is necessary to form a quorum, and the other where only a majority of the copies and witnesses on operational hosts is needed. The latter, known as adaptive voting, is shown to increase file availability in most cases.

Benefits Derived From Laser Ranging Measurements for Orbit Determination of the GPS Satellite Orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Welch, Bryan W.

2007-01-01

While navigation systems for the determination of the orbit of the Global Position System (GPS) have proven to be very effective, the current research is examining methods to lower the error in the GPS satellite ephemerides below their current level. Two GPS satellites that are currently in orbit carry retro-reflectors onboard. One notion to reduce the error in the satellite ephemerides is to utilize the retro-reflectors via laser ranging measurements taken from multiple Earth ground stations. Analysis has been performed to determine the level of reduction in the semi-major axis covariance of the GPS satellites, when laser ranging measurements are supplemented to the radiometric station keeping, which the satellites undergo. Six ground tracking systems are studied to estimate the performance of the satellite. The first system is the baseline current system approach which provides pseudo-range and integrated Doppler measurements from six ground stations. The remaining five ground tracking systems utilize all measurements from the current system and laser ranging measurements from the additional ground stations utilized within those systems. Station locations for the additional ground sites were taken from a listing of laser ranging ground stations from the International Laser Ranging Service. Results show reductions in state covariance estimates when utilizing laser ranging measurements to solve for the satellite s position component of the state vector. Results also show dependency on the number of ground stations providing laser ranging measurements, orientation of the satellite to the ground stations, and the initial covariance of the satellite's state vector.

Coherence of long-term variations of zooplankton in two sectors of the California Current System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lavaniegos, Bertha E.; Ohman, Mark D.

2007-10-01

We analyzed long-term (56-year) variations in springtime biomass of the zooplankton of the California Current System from two primary regions sampled by CalCOFI: Southern California (SC) and Central California (CC) waters. All organisms were enumerated from the plankton samples and converted to organic carbon biomass using length-carbon relationships, then aggregated into 19 major taxa. Planktonic copepods dominate the carbon biomass in both SC (59%) and CC (46%), followed by euphausiids (18% and 25% of mean biomass in SC and CC, respectively). Pelagic tunicates, especially salps and doliolids, constituted a higher fraction of the biomass in CC (13%) than in SC (5%). There was no long-term trend detectable in total zooplankton carbon biomass, in marked contrast to a decline in zooplankton displacement volume in both regions. The difference between these biomass metrics is accounted for by a long-term decline in pelagic tunicates (particularly salps), which have a relatively high ratio of biovolume:carbon. The decline in pelagic tunicates was accompanied by a long-term increase in water column density stratification. No other taxa showed a decline over the duration of the study, apart from salps and pyrosomes in SC and doliolids in CC. Some zooplankton taxa showed compensatory increases over the same time period (ostracods, large decapods, and calycophoran siphonophores in both SC and CC; appendicularians and polychaetes in SC). Two tests for ecosystem shifts, a sequential algorithm and the cumulative sum of anomalies (CuSum) approach, failed to detect changes in 1976-1977 in total carbon biomass, displacement volume, or most individual major taxa, suggesting that aggregated biomass is an insensitive indicator of climate forcing. In contrast, both techniques revealed a cluster of step-like changes associated with the La Niña of 1999. The major El Niño’s in the past half century have consistently depressed total zooplankton biomass and biomass of many major taxa in both SC and CC, although such effects are transitory. Much, but not all, of the interannual variability in zooplankton is shared between the Southern and Central California sectors of the California Current System.

Automated Eddy Current Inspection on Space Shuttle Hardware

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hartmann, John; Felker, Jeremy

2007-01-01

Over the life time of the Space Shuttle program, metal parts used for the Reusable Solid Rocket Motors (RSRMs) have been nondestructively inspected for cracks and surface breaking discontinuities using magnetic particle (steel) and penetrant methods. Although these inspections adequately screened for critical sized cracks in most regions of the hardware, it became apparent after detection of several sub-critical flaws that the processes were very dependent on operator attentiveness and training. Throughout the 1990's, eddy current inspections were added to areas that had either limited visual access or were more fracture critical. In the late 1990's. a project was initiated to upgrade NDE inspections with the overall objective of improving inspection reliability and control. An automated eddy current inspection system was installed in 2001. A figure shows one of the inspection bays with the robotic axis of the system highlighted. The system was programmed to inspect the various case, nozzle, and igniter metal components that make up an RSRM. both steel and aluminum. For the past few years, the automated inspection system has been a part of the baseline inspection process for steel components. Although the majority of the RSRM metal part inventory ts free of detectable surface flaws, a few small, sub-critical manufacturing defects have been detected with the automated system. This paper will summarize the benefits that have been realized with the current automated eddy current system, as well as the flaws that have been detected.

Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) Evolution

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Worlund, Len A.; Hastings, J. H.; McCool, Alex (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The SSME when developed in the 1970's was a technological leap in space launch propulsion system design. The engine has safely supported the space shuttle for the last two decades and will be required for at least another decade to support human space flight to the international space station. This paper discusses the continued improvements and maturing of the system to its current state and future considerations for its critical role in the nations space program. Discussed are the initiatives of the late 1980's, which lead to three major upgrades through the 1990's. The current capabilities of the propulsion system are defined in the areas of highest programmatic importance: ascent risk, in-flight abort thrust, reusability, and operability. Future initiatives for improved shuttle safety, the paramount priority of the Space Shuttle program are discussed.

Current pulse: can a production system reduce medical errors in health care?

PubMed

Printezis, Antonios; Gopalakrishnan, Mohan

2007-01-01

One of the reasons for rising health care costs is medical errors, a majority of which result from faulty systems and processes. Health care in the past has used process-based initiatives such as Total Quality Management, Continuous Quality Improvement, and Six Sigma to reduce errors. These initiatives to redesign health care, reduce errors, and improve overall efficiency and customer satisfaction have had moderate success. Current trend is to apply the successful Toyota Production System (TPS) to health care since its organizing principles have led to tremendous improvement in productivity and quality for Toyota and other businesses that have adapted them. This article presents insights on the effectiveness of TPS principles in health care and the challenges that lie ahead in successfully integrating this approach with other quality initiatives.

HIV-1 and hijacking of the host immune system: the current scenario.

PubMed

Imran, Muhammad; Manzoor, Sobia; Saalim, Muhammad; Resham, Saleha; Ashraf, Javed; Javed, Aneela; Waqar, Ahmed Bilal

2016-10-01

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is a major health burden across the world which leads to the development of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). This review article discusses the prevalence of HIV, its major routes of transmission, natural immunity, and evasion from the host immune system. HIV is mostly prevalent in Sub-Saharan Africa and low income countries. It is mostly transmitted by sharing syringe needles, blood transfusion, and sexual routes. The host immune system is categorized into three main types; the innate, the adaptive, and the intrinsic immune system. Regarding the innate immune system against HIV, the key players are mucosal membrane, dendritic cells (DCs), complement system, interferon, and host Micro RNAs. The major components of the adaptive immune system exploited by HIV are T cells mainly CD4+ T cells and B cells. The intrinsic immune system confronted by HIV involves (apolipoprotein B mRNA-editing enzyme, catalytic polypeptide-like 3G) APOBEC3G, tripartite motif 5-α (TRIM5a), terherin, and (SAM-domain HD-domain containing protein) SAMHD1. HIV-1 efficiently interacts with the host immune system, exploits the host machinery, successfully replicates and transmits from one cell to another. Further research is required to explore evasion strategies of HIV to develop novel therapeutic approaches against HIV. © 2016 APMIS. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Introduction and Highlights of the Workshop

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Noor, Ahmed K.; Venneri, Samuel L.

1997-01-01

Four generations of CAD/CAM systems can be identified, corresponding to changes in both modeling functionality and software architecture. The systems evolved from 2D and wireframes to solid modeling, to parametric/variational modelers to the current simulation-embedded systems. Recent developments have enabled design engineers to perform many of the complex analysis tasks, typically performed by analysis experts. Some of the characteristics of the current and emerging CAD/CAM/CAE systems are described in subsequent presentations. The focus of the workshop is on the potential of CAD/CAM/CAE systems for use in simulating the entire mission and life-cycle of future aerospace systems, and the needed development to realize this potential. First, the major features of the emerging computing, communication and networking environment are outlined; second, the characteristics and design drivers of future aerospace systems are identified; third, the concept of intelligent synthesis environment being planned by NASA, the UVA ACT Center and JPL is presented; and fourth, the objectives and format of the workshop are outlined.

A Hybrid Satellite-Terrestrial Approach to Aeronautical Communication Networks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kerczewski, Robert J.; Chomos, Gerald J.; Griner, James H.; Mainger, Steven W.; Martzaklis, Konstantinos S.; Kachmar, Brian A.

2000-01-01

Rapid growth in air travel has been projected to continue for the foreseeable future. To maintain a safe and efficient national and global aviation system, significant advances in communications systems supporting aviation are required. Satellites will increasingly play a critical role in the aeronautical communications network. At the same time, current ground-based communications links, primarily very high frequency (VHF), will continue to be employed due to cost advantages and legacy issues. Hence a hybrid satellite-terrestrial network, or group of networks, will emerge. The increased complexity of future aeronautical communications networks dictates that system-level modeling be employed to obtain an optimal system fulfilling a majority of user needs. The NASA Glenn Research Center is investigating the current and potential future state of aeronautical communications, and is developing a simulation and modeling program to research future communications architectures for national and global aeronautical needs. This paper describes the primary requirements, the current infrastructure, and emerging trends of aeronautical communications, including a growing role for satellite communications. The need for a hybrid communications system architecture approach including both satellite and ground-based communications links is explained. Future aeronautical communication network topologies and key issues in simulation and modeling of future aeronautical communications systems are described.

A KPI framework for process-based benchmarking of hospital information systems.

PubMed

Jahn, Franziska; Winter, Alfred

2011-01-01

Benchmarking is a major topic for monitoring, directing and elucidating the performance of hospital information systems (HIS). Current approaches neglect the outcome of the processes that are supported by the HIS and their contribution to the hospital's strategic goals. We suggest to benchmark HIS based on clinical documentation processes and their outcome. A framework consisting of a general process model and outcome criteria for clinical documentation processes is introduced.

Leveraging the Strategic Value of the U.S. Inland Waterway System

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-03-14

on the highway system. Although commercial vehicles currently account for less than 10 percent of all vehicle-miles of travel , truck traffic is...growing faster than passenger vehicle traffic and is having major effects on intercity highways. Trucks already account for more than 30 percent of...seen by the traveling public as an unwanted competitor for space on congested highways, but that same public depends on trucking to meet the

Minnesota K-12 Education: The Current Debate, the Present Condition. A Report of the CURA/College of Education Project on the Future of K-12 Public Education in Minnesota.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peek, Thomas R.; And Others

The purpose of this report is to provide an accurate picture of the nature and condition of Minnesota's K-12 public education system and the challenges it faces in the coming years. Section I describes the major concerns about Minnesota education (centering on excellence and student performance, system accountability and responsiveness, and…

Origin of the solar system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cameron, A. G. W.

1988-01-01

The current status of the classical model of solar-system formation is surveyed, reviewing the results of recent observational and theoretical investigations. Topics addressed include interstellar clouds, the collapse of interstellar gas, the primitive solar nebula, the formation of the sun, planetesimal accumulation, planetary accumulation, major planetary collisions, the development of planetary atmospheres, and comets. The relative merits of conflicting theories on many key problems are indicated, with reference to more detailed reviews in the literature.

The evolutionary development of high specific impulse electric thruster technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sovey, James S.; Hamley, John A.; Patterson, Michael J.; Rawlin, Vincent K.; Myers, Roger M.

1992-01-01

Electric propulsion flight and technology demonstrations conducted in the USA, Europe, Japan, China, and USSR are reviewed with reference to the major flight qualified electric propulsion systems. These include resistojets, ion thrusters, ablative pulsed plasma thrusters, stationary plasma thrusters, pulsed magnetoplasmic thrusters, and arcjets. Evolutionary mission applications are presented for high specific impulse electric thruster systems. The current status of arcjet, ion, and magnetoplasmadynamic thrusters and their associated power processor technologies are summarized.

New design and operating techniques and requirements for improved aircraft terminal area operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reeder, J. P.; Taylor, R. T.; Walsh, T. M.

1974-01-01

Current aircraft operating problems that must be alleviated for future high-density terminal areas are safety, dependence on weather, congestion, energy conservation, noise, and atmospheric pollution. The Microwave Landing System (MLS) under development by FAA provides increased capabilities over the current ILS. The development of the airborne system's capability to take maximum advantage of the MLS capabilities in order to solve terminal area problems are discussed. A major limiting factor in longitudinal spacing for capacity increase is the trailing vortex hazard. Promising methods for causing early dissipation of the vortices were explored. Flight procedures for avoiding the hazard were investigated. Terminal configured vehicles and their flight test development are discussed.

The neurofibromatoses.

PubMed

Ferner, Rosalie E

2010-04-01

Neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) and neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2) are inherited autosomal dominant disorders that have a significant impact on the nervous system and predispose to tumour formation. The current nomenclature makes NF1 and NF2 awkward bedfellows because they are clinically and genetically separate disorders. Neurofibromas are characteristic of NF1, a common condition with major skin involvement and many clinical complications. By contrast, schwannomas are the distinctive lesions in NF2, cutaneous signs are less prominent in this rarer disorder and clinical manifestations are largely restricted to the nervous system and eye. The current aim of neurofibromatosis specialists is to provide cohesive standards of care for everyone with neurofibromatosis and to devise standardised protocols for assessment and management within a multidisciplinary setting.

Adoption of alternative financing strategies to increase the diffusion of picture archiving and communication systems into the radiology marketplace.

PubMed

Reiner, B; Siegel, E; McKay, P

2000-05-01

The objective of the study was to evaluate current marketplace conditions and strategies employed by major picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) vendors in the creation of alternative financing strategies, to enhance the diffusion of filmless imaging. Data were collected from the major PACS vendors in the forms of survey questionnaires and review of existing leases. Topics evaluated in the survey included current financing options available, foreseeable changes in PACS financing, role of third-party financiers, and creation of risk-sharing arrangements. Generic leases were also reviewed evaluating the presence or absence of several key variables including technology obsolescence protection, hardware/software upgrades, end-of-term options, determination of fair market value, functionality/acceptance testing, uptime guarantees, and workflow management consulting. Eight of the 10 PACS vendors surveyed participated in the data collection. The vast majority of current PACS implementations (60% to 90%) occur through direct purchase, with conventional leasing (operating or capital) accounting for only 5% to 30% of PACS installations. The majority of respondents view fee-for-lease arrangements and other forms of risk sharing as increasing importance for future PACS financing. The specific targets for such risk-sharing arrangements consist of small hospital and privately owned imaging centers. Leases currently offered range in duration from 3 to 5 years and frequently offer technology obsolescence protection with upgrades, multiple end-of-term options, and some form of acceptance testing. A number of important variables frequently omitted from leases include uptime guarantees, flexibility in changing financing or vendors, and incorporation of expected productivity/operational efficiency gains. As vendors strive to increase the penetration of PACS into the radiology marketplace, there will be a shift from conventional financing (loan or purchase) to leasing. Fee-for-use leasing and other forms of risk sharing have the greatest potential in smaller hospitals, which do not have the financial resources to pursue conventional financing options. Potential PACS customers must be cautious when entering into these alternative financing strategies, to ensure that appropriate safeguards are incorporated, in order to minimize downside risk.

The LHCb trigger and its upgrade

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dziurda, A.; LHCb Trigger Group

2016-07-01

The current LHCb trigger system consists of a hardware level, which reduces the LHC inelastic collision rate of 30 MHz, at which the entire detector is read out. In a second level, implemented in a farm of 20 k parallel-processing CPUs, the event rate is reduced to about 5 kHz. We review the performance of the LHCb trigger system during Run I of the LHC. Special attention is given to the use of multivariate analyses in the High Level Trigger. The major bottleneck for hadronic decays is the hardware trigger. LHCb plans a major upgrade of the detector and DAQ system in the LHC shutdown of 2018, enabling a purely software based trigger to process the full 30 MHz of inelastic collisions delivered by the LHC. We demonstrate that the planned architecture will be able to meet this challenge.

Integration of functional safety systems on the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Williams, Timothy R.; Hubbard, Robert P.; Shimko, Steve

2016-07-01

The Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST) was envisioned from an early stage to incorporate a functional safety system to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment within the facility. Early hazard analysis showed the need for a functional safety system. The design used a distributed approach in which each major subsystem contains a PLC-based safety controller. This PLC-based system complies with the latest international standards for functional safety. The use of a programmable controller also allows for flexibility to incorporate changes in the design of subsystems without adversely impacting safety. Various subsystems were built by different contractors and project partners but had to function as a piece of the overall control system. Using distributed controllers allows project contractors and partners to build components as standalone subsystems that then need to be integrated into the overall functional safety system. Recently factory testing was concluded on the major subsystems of the facility. Final integration of these subsystems is currently underway on the site. Building on lessons learned in early factory tests, changes to the interface between subsystems were made to improve the speed and ease of integration of the entire system. Because of the distributed design each subsystem can be brought online as it is delivered and assembled rather than waiting until the entire facility is finished. This enhances safety during the risky period of integration and testing. The DKIST has implemented a functional safety system that has allowed construction of subsystems in geographically diverse locations but that function cohesively once they are integrated into the facility currently under construction.

The future of the global food system.

PubMed

Godfray, H Charles J; Crute, Ian R; Haddad, Lawrence; Lawrence, David; Muir, James F; Nisbett, Nicholas; Pretty, Jules; Robinson, Sherman; Toulmin, Camilla; Whiteley, Rosalind

2010-09-27

Although food prices in major world markets are at or near a historical low, there is increasing concern about food security-the ability of the world to provide healthy and environmentally sustainable diets for all its peoples. This article is an introduction to a collection of reviews whose authors were asked to explore the major drivers affecting the food system between now and 2050. A first set of papers explores the main factors affecting the demand for food (population growth, changes in consumption patterns, the effects on the food system of urbanization and the importance of understanding income distributions) with a second examining trends in future food supply (crops, livestock, fisheries and aquaculture, and 'wild food'). A third set explores exogenous factors affecting the food system (climate change, competition for water, energy and land, and how agriculture depends on and provides ecosystem services), while the final set explores cross-cutting themes (food system economics, food wastage and links with health). Two of the clearest conclusions that emerge from the collected papers are that major advances in sustainable food production and availability can be achieved with the concerted application of current technologies (given sufficient political will), and the importance of investing in research sooner rather than later to enable the food system to cope with both known and unknown challenges in the coming decades.

Current source enhancements in Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) to cancel unwanted capacitive effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zarafshani, Ali; Bach, Thomas; Chatwin, Chris; Xiang, Liangzhong; Zheng, Bin

2017-03-01

Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) has emerged as a non-invasive imaging modality to detect and quantify functional or electrical properties related to the suspicious tumors in cancer screening, diagnosis and prognosis assessment. A constraint on EIS systems is that the current excitation system suffers from the effects of stray capacitance having a major impact on the hardware subsystem as the EIS is an ill-posed inverse problem which depends on the noise level in EIS measured data and regularization parameter in the reconstruction algorithm. There is high complexity in the design of stable current sources, with stray capacitance reducing the output impedance and bandwidth of the system. To confront this, we have designed an EIS current source which eliminates the effect of stray capacitance and other impacts of the capacitance via a variable inductance. In this paper, we present a combination of operational CCII based on a generalized impedance converter (OCCII-GIC) with a current source. The aim of this study is to use the EIS system as a biomedical imaging technique, which is effective in the early detection of breast cancer. This article begins with the theoretical description of the EIS structure, current source topologies and proposes a current conveyor in application of a Gyrator to eliminate the current source limitations and its development followed by simulation and experimental results. We demonstrated that the new design could achieve a high output impedance over a 3MHz frequency bandwidth when compared to other types of GIC circuits combined with an improved Howland topology.

Coastal and Riverine Flood Forecast Model powered by ADCIRC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khalid, A.; Ferreira, C.

2017-12-01

Coastal flooding is becoming a major threat to increased population in the coastal areas. To protect coastal communities from tropical storms & hurricane damages, early warning systems are being developed. These systems have the capability of real time flood forecasting to identify hazardous coastal areas and aid coastal communities in rescue operations. State of the art hydrodynamic models forced by atmospheric forcing have given modelers the ability to forecast storm surge, water levels and currents. This helps to identify the areas threatened by intense storms. Study on Chesapeake Bay area has gained national importance because of its combined riverine and coastal phenomenon, which leads to greater uncertainty in flood predictions. This study presents an automated flood forecast system developed by following Advanced Circulation (ADCIRC) Surge Guidance System (ASGS) guidelines and tailored to take in riverine and coastal boundary forcing, thus includes all the hydrodynamic processes to forecast total water in the Potomac River. As studies on tidal and riverine flow interaction are very scarce in number, our forecast system would be a scientific tool to examine such area and fill the gaps with precise prediction for Potomac River. Real-time observations from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and field measurements have been used as model boundary feeding. The model performance has been validated by using major historical riverine and coastal flooding events. Hydrodynamic model ADCIRC produced promising predictions for flood inundation areas. As better forecasts can be achieved by using coupled models, this system is developed to take boundary conditions from Global WaveWatchIII for the research purposes. Wave and swell propagation will be fed through Global WavewatchIII model to take into account the effects of swells and currents. This automated forecast system is currently undergoing rigorous testing to include any missing parameters which might provide better and more reliable forecast for the flood affected communities.

NASA's In Space Manufacturing Initiatives: Conquering the Challenges of In-Space Manufacturing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clinton, R. G., Jr.

2017-01-01

Current maintenance logistics strategy will not be effective for deep space exploration missions. ISM (In Space Manufacturing) offers the potential to: Significantly reduce maintenance logistics mass requirements; Enable the use of recycled materials and in-situ resources for more dramatic reductions in mass requirements; Enable flexibility, giving systems a broad capability to adapt to unanticipated circumstances; Mitigate risks that are not covered by current approaches to maintainability. Multiple projects are underway currently to develop and validate these capabilities for infusion into ISM exploration systems. ISS is a critical testbed for demonstrating ISM technologies, proving out these capabilities, and performing operational validation of deep space ISM applications. Developing and testing FabLab is a major milestone for springboard to DSG/Cis-lunar Space applications. ISM is a necessary paradigm shift in space operations – design for repair culture must be embraced. ISM team needs to be working with exploration system designers now to identify high-value application areas and influence design.

A western boundary current east of New Caledonia: Observed characteristics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gasparin, Florent; Ganachaud, Alexandre; Maes, Christophe

2011-09-01

Waters from the South Equatorial Current (SEC), the northern branch of the South Pacific subtropical gyre, are a major supply of heat to the equatorial warm pool, and have an important contribution to climate variability and ENSO which motivated the Southwest Pacific Ocean and Climate Experiment (SPICE, CLIVAR/WCRP). Initially a broad westward current extending from the equator to 30°S, the SEC splits upon arriving at the major islands and archipelagoes of Fiji (18°S, 180°E), Vanuatu (16°S, 168°E), and New Caledonia (22°S, 165°E), resulting in a complex system of western boundary currents and zonal jets that feed the Coral and Solomon Seas. We focus here on the formation of one specific jet feeding the Coral Sea, the North Caledonian Jet (NCJ). Using a combination of recent oceanographic cruises, we describe the ocean circulation to the northeast of New Caledonia, where the SEC forms a western boundary current that ultimately becomes the NCJ. This current, which we document for the first time and propose to refer to as the East Caledonian Current (ECC), has its core located 10-100 km off the east coast of New Caledonia, and extends vertically to at least 1000 m depth. Water mass properties show continuous westward transports through the ECC, from the SEC to the NCJ in both the South Pacific Tropical Waters in the thermocline and Antarctic Intermediate Waters near 700 m depth. The ECC extends about 100 km horizontally; its average 0-1000 m transport was estimated at 14.5±3 Sv off the north tip of the New Caledonian reef, with a maximum of 20 Sv in May 2010. South of that the upstream branch of the ECC east of the Loyalty is close to 8 Sv suggesting an important additional contribution from central Pacific waters carried by the SEC at 16°S and diverted to our region through the western boundary current system east of Vanuatu.

Groupies and Loners: The Population of Multi-planet Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Van Laerhoven, Christa L.; Greenberg, Richard

2014-11-01

Observational surveys with Kepler and other telescopes have shown that multi-planet systems are very numerous. Considering the secular dynamcis of multi-planet systems provides substantial insight into the interactions between planets in those systems. Since the underlying secular structure of a multi-planet system (the secular eigenmodes) can be calculated using only the planets' masses and semi-major axes, one can elucidate the eccentricity and inclination behavior of planets in those systems even without knowing the planets' current eccentricities and inclinations. We have calculated both the eccentricity and inclination secular eigenmodes for the population of known multi-planet systems whose planets have well determined masses and periods. We will discuss the commonality of dynamically grouped planets ('groupies') vs dynamically uncoupled planets ('loners'), and compare to what would be expected from randomly generated systems with the same overall distribution of masses and semi-major axes. We will also discuss the occurrence of planets that strongly influence the behavior of other planets without being influenced by those others ('overlords'). Examples will be given and general trends will be discussed.

Computerized Management of Physical Plant Services.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hawkey, Earl W.; Kleinpeter, Joseph

Outlining the major areas to be considered when deciding whether or not to computerize physical plant services in higher education institutions, the author points out the shortcomings of manual record keeping systems. He gives five factors to consider when deciding to computerize: (1) time and money, (2) extent of operation, (3) current and future…

Recent Developments in Assessment Procedures in England and Wales.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goldstein, Harvey; Nuttall, Desmond

Focusing on technical issues, this paper critiques proposed changes in assessment procedures at the further educational level (ages 16 through 18) in England and Wales. Major structural changes are taking place at this educational level, partly because of large scale youth unemployment. The two current examination systems for the final year of…

Aesthetical Information Impact of Artworks on the Human Mind.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Malik, M. F.

The major areas of concern in this paper are the information and aesthetical impacts of artwork on the human mind, and the modes, structures, and media of artwork which influence the formulation of aesthetical impact. The analysis of aesthetical information impact follows current discoveries in the disciplines of biocybernetics, system and…

Business School Accreditation in the Changing Global Marketplace: A Comparative Study of the Agencies and Their Competitive Strategies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhao, Jun; Ferran, Carlos

2016-01-01

Purpose: This paper aims to examine current trends in business accreditation by describing and comparing the major international business accreditation agencies (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, European Quality Improvement System, Association of MBAs, Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs and International…

Paranoid Schizophrenia: Assessing the Validity of the Diagnostic Schemata.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dobbs, James Mark

This paper is concerned with changes which have been proposed in the major current diagnostic system regarding paranoid schizophrenia. It is noted that the proposed changes to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Third Edition (DSM-III) would remove paranoia as a schizophrenic subtype and institute a spectrum description of…

Agrofuels and Agrifoods: Counting the Externalities at the Major Crossroads of the 21st Century

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pengue, Walter A.

2009-01-01

The economically successful model of industrial agriculture that is currently expanding throughout Argentina is leading to deep social, economic, environmental, and logistical changes that are seriously restricting the sustainability of the rural, urban and environmental systems. The transformation of activities, the arrival of new technologies,…

A New School Board for the 80's?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jakes, Harold E.

1980-01-01

The government of Ontario (Canada) announced, in December 1979, its position on three major issues of school governance currently in dispute in the Ottawa and Carleton school systems. The first announcement (overriding recommendations made in 1974 by the Mayo Commission and again in March 1979 in the government's "Education Green Paper")…

The Work of Children: Seeking Patterns in the Design of Educational Technology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eisenberg, Michael; Jacobson-Weaver, Zack

2015-01-01

The vast majority of research in educational technology focuses, justifiably, on what might be described as "short-term" (or perhaps "medium-term") questions: how to improve an existing software system, how to assess a particular classroom innovation, how to teach some current subject matter in a more effective fashion. From…

Evaluating the Motivational Impact of CALL Systems: Current Practices and Future Directions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bodnar, Stephen; Cucchiarini, Catia; Strik, Helmer; van Hout, Roeland

2016-01-01

A major aim of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is to create computer environments that facilitate students' second language (L2) acquisition. To achieve this aim, CALL employs technological innovations to create novel types of language practice. Evaluations of the new practice types serve the important role of distinguishing effective…

From Early to Current Developments in Online Learning at Nova Southeastern University: Reflections on Historical Milestones.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dringus, Laurie P.; Scigliano, John A.

2000-01-01

Traces the major historical milestones achieved by Nova Southeastern University in its pioneering of graduate level online learning programs. Highlights include delivery systems; Web-based electronic classrooms; overview of the technology, including telecommunications through UNIX; evaluation and research; and technology used in the School of…

78 FR 1991 - Major Capital Investment Projects

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-01-09

...) published on June 3, 2010 (75 FR 31383), which posed a series of questions about the current regulation and... system in which well- justified projects are funded. At the same time, FTA seeks to ensure that it does...; to use a series of standard factors in a simple spreadsheet to calculate vehicle miles traveled (VMT...

Use of Failure in IS Development Statistics: Lessons for IS Curriculum Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Longenecker, Herbert H., Jr.; Babb, Jeffry; Waguespack, Leslie; Tastle, William; Landry, Jeff

2016-01-01

The evolution of computing education reflects the history of the professional practice of computing. Keeping computing education current has been a major challenge due to the explosive advances in technologies. Academic programs in Information Systems, a long-standing computing discipline, develop and refine the theory and practice of computing…

The World in Microcosm: From John Dewey to Global Perspectives.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peters, Richard

By tracing major ideas in the evolution of educational history between 1899 and 1985, the document takes readers from the traditional emphasis on citizenship training in social education to the current focus on teaching about the world community and the interdependence of its people and systems--cultural, ecological, economic, linguistic, racial,…

The Personnel Effectiveness Grid (PEG): A New Tool for Estimating Personnel Department Effectiveness

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Petersen, Donald J.; Malone, Robert L.

1975-01-01

Examines the difficulties inherent in attempting a formal personnel evaluation system, the major formal methods currently used for evaluating personnel department accountabilities, some parameters that should be part of a valid evaluation program, and a model for conducting the evaluation. (Available from Office of Publications, Graduate School of…

Preserving biodiversity under current and future climates: a case study

Treesearch

John W. Coulston; Kurt H. Riitters

2005-01-01

Aim The conservation of biological and genetic diversity is a major goal of reserve systems at local, regional, and national levels. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources suggests a 12% threshold (area basis) for adequate protection of biological and genetic diversity of a plant community. However,...

Raising Teacher Salaries: The Funds Are There.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haberman, Martin

2005-01-01

School districts currently spend $2.6 billion annually on maintaining a system of recruiting and hiring teachers who quit or fail. The 120 major urban districts are the primary locus of this teacher churn. The causes include the negative conditions of work in these districts, the impersonal hiring procedures which recruit and hire the wrong people…

Fair Employment and Performance Appraisal: Legal Requirements and Practical Guidelines.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Edwards, Keith J.

The use of tests in personnel decisions has become an increasing legal liability for employers. The major questions raised by the courts concerning this use of tests are described. Current federal guidelines for performance appraisal systems, as established by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, are explained and traced to Title VII of…

Learning Analytics for Supporting Seamless Language Learning Using E-Book with Ubiquitous Learning System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mouri, Kousuke; Uosaki, Noriko; Ogata, Hiroaki

2018-01-01

Seamless learning has been recognized as an effective learning approach across various dimensions including formal and informal learning contexts, individual and social learning, and physical world and cyberspace. With the emergence of seamless learning, the majority of the current research focuses on realizing a seamless learning environment at…

Affordance, Agency and Apprenticeship Learning: A Comparative Study of Small and Large Engineering Firms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bishop, Dan

2017-01-01

Amidst concerns over skills shortages, both the current British government and its coalition predecessors have, against the grain of wider austerity measures, invested heavily in the apprenticeship system. The majority of apprentices are, and have historically been, employed within small businesses. However, research suggests that, in the main,…

One World: The Union of a New Capitalism and a New Socialism.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Halal, William E.

After decades of bitter conflict between capitalism and socialism, the current technological revolution is driving these two major systems of political economy toward a unified but diverse global order. International trade is growing at twice the rate of domestic trade, competition across national borders is intense, and telecommunication networks…

Scientific approach and practical experience for reconstruction of waste water treatment plants in Russia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Makisha, Nikolay; Gogina, Elena

2017-11-01

Protection of water bodies has a strict dependence on reliable operation of engineering systems and facilities for water supply and sewage. The majority of these plants and stations has been constructed in 1970-1980's in accordance with rules and regulations of that time. So now most of them require reconstruction due to serious physical or/and technological wear. The current condition of water supply and sewage systems and facilities frequently means a hidden source of serious danger for normal life support and ecological safety of cities and towns. The article reveals an obtained experience and modern approaches for reconstruction of waste water and sludge treatment plants that proved their efficiency even if applied in limited conditions such as area limits, investments limits. The main directions of reconstruction: overhaul repair and partial modernization of existing facilities on the basis of initial project; - restoration and modernization of existing systems on the basis on the current documents and their current condition; upgrade of waste water treatment plants (WWTPs) performance on the basis of modern technologies and methods; reconstruction of sewage systems and facilities and treatment quality improvement.

The Mediating Role of Meaning in the Association between Stress and Health.

PubMed

Van Tongeren, Daryl R; Hill, Peter C; Krause, Neal; Ironson, Gail H; Pargament, Kenneth I

2017-10-01

Stress is a common feature of life and has routinely been linked with negative health outcomes. However, meaning has been identified as a possible buffer against stress. The purpose of the current study was to examine whether the relationship between stress and health was mediated by meaning in life. Drawing from Wave 1 of the Landmark Spirituality and Health Study, a nationally representative sample of adults, participants (N = 1871) reported their level of stress in the past 12 months, current meaning in life, health (measured as minor symptoms, major conditions, and overall health), and provided a blood sample for biomarker of immune system functioning (i.e., presence of Epstein-Barr virus antibodies). Results revealed an indirect effects model in which stress was inversely associated with meaning. Higher meaning was related to better self-reported health (across minor, major, and overall health measures), which, in turn, was associated with better immune system functioning. These findings suggest that part of the negative effect of stress on health is accounted for by reduced meaning.

Nanosized Drug Delivery Systems in Gastrointestinal Targeting: Interactions with Microbiota

PubMed Central

Karavolos, Michail; Holban, Alina

2016-01-01

The new age of nanotechnology has signaled a stream of entrepreneurial possibilities in various areas, form industry to medicine. Drug delivery has benefited the most by introducing nanostructured systems in the transport and controlled release of therapeutic molecules at targeted sites associated with a particular disease. As many nanosized particles reach the gastrointestinal tract by various means, their interactions with the molecular components of this highly active niche are intensively investigated. The well-characterized antimicrobial activities of numerous nanoparticles are currently being considered as a reliable and efficient alternative to the eminent world crisis in antimicrobial drug discovery. The interactions of nanosystems present in the gastrointestinal route with host microbiota is unavoidable; hence, a major research initiative is needed to explore the mechanisms and effects of these nanomaterials on microbiota and the impact that microbiota may have in the outcome of therapies entailing drug delivery nanosystems through the gastrointestinal route. These coordinated studies will provide novel techniques to replace or act synergistically with current technologies and help develop new treatments for major diseases via the discovery of unique antimicrobial molecules. PMID:27690060

Biomimetics in Tribology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gebeshuber, I. C.; Majlis, B. Y.; Stachelberger, H.

Science currently goes through a major change. Biology is evolving as new Leitwissenschaft, with more and more causation and natural laws being uncovered. The term `technoscience' denotes the field where science and technology are inseparably interconnected, the trend goes from papers to patents, and the scientific `search for truth' is increasingly replaced by search for applications with a potential economic value. Biomimetics, i.e. knowledge transfer from biology to technology, is a field that has the potential to drive major technical advances. The biomimetic approach might change the research landscape and the engineering culture dramatically, by the blending of disciplines. It might substantially support successful mastering of current tribological challenges: friction, adhesion, lubrication and wear in devices and systems from the meter to the nanometer scale. A highly successful method in biomimectics, the biomimicry innovation method, is applied in this chapter to identify nature's best practices regarding two key issues in tribology: maintenance of the physical integrity of a system, and permanent as well as temporary attachment. The best practices identified comprise highly diverse organisms and processes and are presented in a number of tables with detailed references.

International Space Station Major Constituent Analyzer On-Orbit Performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gardner, Ben D.; Erwin, Phillip M.; Thoresen, Souzan; Wiedemann, Rachel; Matty, Chris

2015-01-01

The Major Constituent Analyzer is a mass spectrometer based system that measures the major atmospheric constituents on the International Space Station. A number of limited-life components require periodic change-out, including the ORU 02 analyzer and the ORU 08 Verification Gas Assembly. Improvements to ion pump operation and ion source tuning have improved lifetime performance of the current ORU 02 design. The most recent ORU 02 analyzer assemblies, as well as ORU 08, have operated nominally. For ORU 02, the ion source filaments and ion pump lifetime continue to be key determinants of MCA performance and logistical support. Monitoring several key parameters provides the capacity to monitor ORU health and properly anticipate end of life.

The CRISPR/Cas9 system sheds new lights on the biology of protozoan parasites.

PubMed

Grzybek, Maciej; Golonko, Aleksandra; Górska, Aleksandra; Szczepaniak, Klaudiusz; Strachecka, Aneta; Lass, Anna; Lisowski, Paweł

2018-06-01

The CRISPR/Cas9 system, a natural defence system of bacterial organisms, has recently been used to modify genomes of the most important protozoa parasites. Successful genome manipulations with the CRISPR/Cas9 system are changing the present view of genetics in parasitology. The application of this system offers a major chance to overcome the current restriction in culturing, maintaining and analysing protozoan parasites, and allows dynamic analysis of parasite genes functions, leading to a better understanding of pathogenesis. CRISPR/Cas9 system will have a significant influence on the process of developing novel drugs and treatment strategies against protozoa parasites.

The management of systemic lupus erythematosus: Facts and controversies.

PubMed

Elbirt, Daniel; Sthoeger, Dalia; Asher, Ilan; Sthoeger, Zev Moshe

2010-01-01

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a multisystem disease of unknown etiology in which dysregulation of the innate and adaptive immune systems has a major effect in the pathogenesis of the disease. The treatment should be tailored for each patient according to how the disease manifests itself. Although there is no cure for systemic lupus erythematosus, the current treatment, using anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, and immunosuppressive agents, is fairly effective, but serious adverse events are possible. New biologic agents that target various components of the immune system recently have been developed for the treatment of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The use of the transition cost accounting system in health services research

PubMed Central

Azoulay, Arik; Doris, Nadine M; Filion, Kristian B; Caron, Joanna; Pilote, Louise; Eisenberg, Mark J

2007-01-01

The Transition cost accounting system integrates clinical, resource utilization, and financial information and is currently being used by several hospitals in Canada and the United States to calculate the costs of patient care. Our objectives were to review the use of hospital-based cost accounting systems to measure costs of treatment and discuss potential use of the Transition cost accounting system in health services research. Such systems provide internal reports to administrators for formulating major policies and strategic plans for future activities. Our review suggests that the Transition cost accounting information system may useful for estimating in-hospital costs of treatment. PMID:17686148

The use of the transition cost accounting system in health services research.

PubMed

Azoulay, Arik; Doris, Nadine M; Filion, Kristian B; Caron, Joanna; Pilote, Louise; Eisenberg, Mark J

2007-08-08

The Transition cost accounting system integrates clinical, resource utilization, and financial information and is currently being used by several hospitals in Canada and the United States to calculate the costs of patient care. Our objectives were to review the use of hospital-based cost accounting systems to measure costs of treatment and discuss potential use of the Transition cost accounting system in health services research. Such systems provide internal reports to administrators for formulating major policies and strategic plans for future activities. Our review suggests that the Transition cost accounting information system may useful for estimating in-hospital costs of treatment.

A simple molecular orbital treatment of current distributions in quantum transport through molecular junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jhan, Sin-Mu; Jin, Bih-Yaw

2017-11-01

A simple molecular orbital treatment of local current distributions inside single molecular junctions is developed in this paper. Using the first-order perturbation theory and nonequilibrium Green's function techniques in the framework of Hückel theory, we show that the leading contributions to local current distributions are directly proportional to the off-diagonal elements of transition density matrices. Under the orbital approximation, the major contributions to local currents come from a few dominant molecular orbital pairs which are mixed by the interactions between the molecule and electrodes. A few simple molecular junctions consisting of single- and multi-ring conjugated systems are used to demonstrate that local current distributions inside molecular junctions can be decomposed by partial sums of a few leading contributing transition density matrices.

Plant proteomics in India and Nepal: current status and challenges ahead.

PubMed

Deswal, Renu; Gupta, Ravi; Dogra, Vivek; Singh, Raksha; Abat, Jasmeet Kaur; Sarkar, Abhijit; Mishra, Yogesh; Rai, Vandana; Sreenivasulu, Yelam; Amalraj, Ramesh Sundar; Raorane, Manish; Chaudhary, Ram Prasad; Kohli, Ajay; Giri, Ashok Prabhakar; Chakraborty, Niranjan; Zargar, Sajad Majeed; Agrawal, Vishwanath Prasad; Agrawal, Ganesh Kumar; Job, Dominique; Renaut, Jenny; Rakwal, Randeep

2013-10-01

Plant proteomics has made tremendous contributions in understanding the complex processes of plant biology. Here, its current status in India and Nepal is discussed. Gel-based proteomics is predominantly utilized on crops and non-crops to analyze majorly abiotic (49 %) and biotic (18 %) stress, development (11 %) and post-translational modifications (7 %). Rice is the most explored system (36 %) with major focus on abiotic mainly dehydration (36 %) stress. In spite of expensive proteomics setup and scarcity of trained workforce, output in form of publications is encouraging. To boost plant proteomics in India and Nepal, researchers have discussed ground level issues among themselves and with the International Plant Proteomics Organization (INPPO) to act in priority on concerns like food security. Active collaboration may help in translating this knowledge to fruitful applications.

Simultaneous prenoon and postnoon observations of three field-aligned current systems from Viking and DMSP-F7

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ohtani, S.; Potemra, T. A.; Newell, P. T.; Zanetti, L. J.; Iijima, T.; Watanabe, M.; Yamauchi, M.; Elphinstone, R. D.; De La Beauijardie, O.; Blomberg, L. G.

1995-01-01

The spatial structure of dayside large-scale field-aligned current (FAC) systems is examined by using Viking and Defense Meteorological Satellite Program-F7 (DMSP-F7) data. We focus on four events in which the satellites simultaneously observed postnoon and prenoon three FAC systems: the region 2, the region 1, and the mantle (referred to as midday region O) systems, from equatorward to poleward. These events provide the most solid evidence to date that the midday region O system is a separate and unique FAC system, and is not an extension of the region 1 system from other local times. The events are examined comprehensively by making use of a mulit-instrumental data set, which includes magnetic field, particle flux, electric field, auroral UV image data from the satellites, and the Sondrestrom convection data. The results are summarized as follows: (1) Region 2 currents flow mostly in the central plasma sheet (CPS) precipitation region, often overlapping with the boundary plasma sheet (BPD) at their poleward edge. (2) The region 1 system is located in the core part of the auroral oval and is confined in a relatively narrow range in latitude which includes the convection reversal. The low-latitude boundary layer, possibly including the outer part of the plasma sheet, and the external cusp are the major source regions of dayside region 1 currents. (2) Midday region O currents flow on open field lines and are collocated with the shear of antisunward convection flows with velocites decreasing poleward. On the basis of these results we support the view that both prenoon and postnoon current systems consist of the three-sheet structure when the disctortion ofthe convection pattern associated with interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) B(sub Y) is small and both morningside and eveningside convection cells are crescent-shaped. We also propose that the midday region O and a part of the region 1 systems are closely coupled to the same source.

Prophenoloxidase system and its role in shrimp immune responses against major pathogens.

PubMed

Amparyup, Piti; Charoensapsri, Walaiporn; Tassanakajon, Anchalee

2013-04-01

The global shrimp industry still faces various serious disease-related problems that are mainly caused by pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Understanding the host defense mechanisms is likely to be beneficial in designing and implementing effective strategies to solve the current and future pathogen-related problems. Melanization, which is performed by phenoloxidase (PO) and controlled by the prophenoloxidase (proPO) activation cascade, plays an important role in the invertebrate immune system in allowing a rapid response to pathogen infection. The activation of the proPO system, by the specific recognition of microorganisms by pattern-recognition proteins (PRPs), triggers a serine proteinase cascade, eventually leading to the cleavage of the inactive proPO to the active PO that functions to produce the melanin and toxic reactive intermediates against invading pathogens. This review highlights the recent discoveries of the critical roles of the proPO system in the shrimp immune responses against major pathogens, and emphasizes the functional characterizations of four major groups of genes and proteins in the proPO cascade in penaeid shrimp, that is the PRPs, serine proteinases, proPO and inhibitors. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Collaboration, Automation, and Information Management at Hanford High Level Radioactive Waste (HLW) Tank Farms

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

Aurah, Mirwaise Y.; Roberts, Mark A.

Washington River Protection Solutions (WRPS), operator of High Level Radioactive Waste (HLW) Tank Farms at the Hanford Site, is taking an over 20-year leap in technology, replacing systems that were monitored with clipboards and obsolete computer systems, as well as solving major operations and maintenance hurdles in the area of process automation and information management. While WRPS is fully compliant with procedures and regulations, the current systems are not integrated and do not share data efficiently, hampering how information is obtained and managed.

Oil-Free Shaft Support System Rotordynamics: Past, Present, and Future Challenges and Opportunities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DellaCorte, Christopher

2011-01-01

Recent breakthroughs in Oil-Free technologies have enabled new high-speed rotor systems and turbomachinery. Such technologies can include compliant-surface gas bearings, magnetic bearings, and advanced solid lubricants and tribo-materials. This presentation briefly reviews critical technology developments and the current state-of-the-art, emerging Oil-Free rotor systems and discusses obstacles preventing more widespread use. Key examples of "best practices" for deploying Oil-Free technologies will be presented and remaining major technical questions surrounding Oil-Free technologies will be brought forward.

Space station systems: A bibliography with indexes (supplement 7)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

This bibliography lists 1,158 reports, articles, and other documents introduced into the NASA scientific and technical information system between January 1, 1988 and June 30, 1988. Its purpose is to provide helpful information to researchers, designers and managers engaged in Space Station technology development and mission design. Coverage includes documents that define major systems and subsystems related to structures and dynamic control, electronics and power supplies, propulsion, and payload integration. In addition, orbital construction methods, servicing and support requirements, procedures and operations, and missions for the current and future Space Station are included.

Space station systems: A bibliography with indexes (supplement 10)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1990-01-01

This bibliography lists 1,422 reports, articles, and other documents introduced into the NASA scientific and technical information system between July 1, 1989 and December 31, 1989. Its purpose is to provide helpful information to researchers, designers and managers engaged in Space Station technology development and mission design. Coverage includes documents that define major systems and subsystems related to structures and dynamic control, electronics and power supplies, propulsion, and payload integration. In addition, orbital construction methods, servicing and support requirements, procedures and operations, and missions for the current and future Space Station are included.

Space Station Systems: a Bibliography with Indexes (Supplement 8)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

This bibliography lists 950 reports, articles, and other documents introduced into the NASA scientific and technical information system between July 1, 1989 and December 31, 1989. Its purpose is to provide helpful information to researchers, designers and managers engaged in Space Station technology development and mission design. Coverage includes documents that define major systems and subsystems related to structures and dynamic control, electronics and power supplies, propulsion, and payload integration. In addition, orbital construction methods, servicing and support requirements, procedures and operations, and missions for the current and future Space Station are included.

Computer-Aided Modeling and Analysis of Power Processing Systems (CAMAPPS). Phase 1: Users handbook

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, S.; Lee, J.; Cho, B. H.; Lee, F. C.

1986-01-01

The EASY5 macro component models developed for the spacecraft power system simulation are described. A brief explanation about how to use the macro components with the EASY5 Standard Components to build a specific system is given through an example. The macro components are ordered according to the following functional group: converter power stage models, compensator models, current-feedback models, constant frequency control models, load models, solar array models, and shunt regulator models. Major equations, a circuit model, and a program listing are provided for each macro component.

Network Upgrade for the SLC: Control System Modifications

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

Crane, M.; Mackenzie, R.; Sass, R.

2011-09-09

Current communications between the SLAC Linear Collider control system central host and the SLCmicros is built upon the SLAC developed SLCNET communication hardware and protocols. We will describe how the Internet Suite of protocols (TCP/IP) are used to replace the SLCNET protocol interface. The major communication pathways and their individual requirements are described. A proxy server is used to reduce the number of total system TCP/IP connections. The SLCmicros were upgraded to use Ethernet and TCP/IP as well as SLCNET. Design choices and implementation experiences are addressed.

Space station systems: A bibliography with indexes (supplement 9)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1989-01-01

This bibliography lists 1,313 reports, articles, and other documents introduced into the NASA scientific and technical information system between January 1, 1989 and June 30, 1989. Its purpose is to provide helpful information to researchers, designers and managers engaged in Space Station technology development and mission design. Coverage includes documents that define major systems and subsystems related to structures and dynamic control, electronics and power supplies, propulsion, and payload integration. In addition, orbital construction methods, servicing and support requirements, procedures and operations, and missions for the current and future Space Station are included.

Solar energy in buildings: Implications for California energy policy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hirshberg, A. S.; Davis, E. S.

1977-01-01

An assessment of the potential of active solar energy systems for buildings in California is summarized. The technology used for solar heating, cooling, and water heating in buildings is discussed. The major California weather zones and the solar energy designs are described, as well as the sizing of solar energy systems and their performance. The cost of solar energy systems is given both at current prices and at prices consistent with optimistic estimates for the cost of collectors. The main institutional barriers to the wide spread use of solar energy are summarized.

Design of a neural network simulator on a transputer array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mcintire, Gary; Villarreal, James; Baffes, Paul; Rua, Monica

1987-01-01

A brief summary of neural networks is presented which concentrates on the design constraints imposed. Major design issues are discussed together with analysis methods and the chosen solutions. Although the system will be capable of running on most transputer architectures, it currently is being implemented on a 40-transputer system connected to a toroidal architecture. Predictions show a performance level equivalent to that of a highly optimized simulator running on the SX-2 supercomputer.

Customer Communication Document

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2009-01-01

This procedure communicates to the Customers of the Automation, Robotics and Simulation Division (AR&SD) Dynamics Systems Test Branch (DSTB) how to obtain services of the Six-Degrees-Of-Freedom Dynamic Test System (SDTS). The scope includes the major communication documents between the SDTS and its Customer. It established the initial communication and contact points as well as provides the initial documentation in electronic media for the customer. Contact the SDTS Manager (SM) for the names of numbers of the current contact points.

The treatment of systemic lupus proliferative nephritis.

PubMed

Punaro, Marilynn G

2013-11-01

Lupus nephritis is one of the most common and serious complications of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in childhood affecting more than 80% of patients. Treatment of this complication has undergone significant evolution in recent years. A series of randomized controlled trials has clarified the role of a variety of immunomodulating regimens including some novel biologic medications. This review touches on the major trials that have influenced practice and shaped current thinking about the treatment of proliferative lupus glomerulonephritis.

Research Technology

NASA Image and Video Library

1999-10-21

Travel to distant stars is a long-range goal of Marshall Space Flight Center's Advanced Concept Group. One of the many propulsion systems currently being studied is fusion power. The objective of this and many other alternative propulsion systems is to reduce the costs of space access and to reduce the travel time for planetary missions. One of the major factors is providing an alternate engery source for these missions. Pictured is an artist's concept of future interplanetary space flight using fusion power.

Detection and Attribution of Anthropogenic Climate Change Impacts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosenzweig, Cynthia; Neofotis, Peter

2013-01-01

Human-influenced climate change is an observed phenomenon affecting physical and biological systems across the globe. The majority of observed impacts are related to temperature changes and are located in the northern high- and midlatitudes. However, new evidence is emerging that demonstrates that impacts are related to precipitation changes as well as temperature, and that climate change is impacting systems and sectors beyond the Northern Hemisphere. In this paper, we highlight some of this new evidence-focusing on regions and sectors that the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fourth Assessment Report (IPCC AR4) noted as under-represented-in the context of observed climate change impacts, direct and indirect drivers of change (including carbon dioxide itself), and methods of detection. We also present methods and studies attributing observed impacts to anthropogenic forcing. We argue that the expansion of methods of detection (in terms of a broader array of climate variables and data sources, inclusion of the major modes of climate variability, and incorporation of other drivers of change) is key to discerning the climate sensitivities of sectors and systems in regions where the impacts of climate change currently remain elusive. Attributing such changes to human forcing of the climate system, where possible, is important for development of effective mitigation and adaptation. Current challenges in documenting adaptation and the role of indigenous knowledge in detection and attribution are described.

Modeling of the Convection and Interaction of Ring Current, Plasmaspheric and Plasma Sheet Plasmas in the Inner Magnetosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fok, Mei-Ching; Chen, Sheng-Hsien; Buzulukova, Natalia; Glocer, Alex

2010-01-01

Distinctive sources of ions reside in the plasmasphere, plasmasheet, and ring current regions at discrete energies constitute the major plasma populations in the inner/middle magnetosphere. They contribute to the electrodynamics of the ionosphere-magnetosphere system as important carriers of the global current system, in triggering; geomagnetic storm and substorms, as well as critical components of plasma instabilities such as reconnection and Kelvin-Helmholtz instability at the magnetospheric boundaries. Our preliminary analysis of in-situ measurements shoves the complexity of the plasmas pitch angle distributions at particularly the cold and warm plasmas, vary dramatically at different local times and radial distances from the Earth in response to changes in solar wind condition and Dst index. Using an MHD-ring current coupled code, we model the convection and interaction of cold, warm and energetic ions of plasmaspheric, plasmasheet, and ring current origins in the inner magnetosphere. We compare our simulation results with in-situ and remotely sensed measurements from recent instrumentation on Geotail, Cluster, THEMIS, and TWINS spacecraft.

Antenatal screening for aneuploidy--surveying the current situation and planning for non-invasive prenatal diagnosis in New Zealand.

PubMed

Eastwood, Ashley; Webster, Dianne; Taylor, Juliet; Mckay, Richard; McEwen, Alison; Sullivan, Jan; Pope-Couston, Rachel; Stone, Peter

2016-01-29

To gauge clinical opinion about the current system and possible changes as well as providing a forum for education about Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT). A series of workshops for doctors and midwives, supported by the National Screening Unit of the Ministry of Health and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, were held in the main centres of New Zealand. Following a brief education session, a structured evaluation of current screening and future possibilities was undertaken by questionnaire. One hundred and eight maternity carers participated in 5 workshops. Over 40% identified barriers to current screening. More than 60% would support NIPT in the first trimester. The majority of carers provided their own counselling support for women. The survey has shown general enthusiasm for the introduction of publically funded NIPT into prenatal screening in New Zealand. Barriers to utilisation of the current system have been identified and enhancements to screening performance with guidelines around conditions to be screened for would be supported.

Improving the in-flight security by employing seat occupancy sensors based on Fiber Bragg grating technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hongtao; Wang, Pengfei

2012-06-01

The current schemes of detecting the status of passengers in airplanes cannot satisfy the more strict regulations recently released by the United States Transportation Security Administration. In basis of investigation on the current seat occupancy sensors for vehicles, in this paper we present a novel scheme of seat occupancy sensors based on Fiber Bragg Grating technology to improve the in-flight security of airplanes. This seat occupancy sensor system can be used to detect the status of passengers and to trigger the airbags to control the inflation of air bags, which have been installed in the airplanes of some major airlines under the new law. This scheme utilizes our previous research results of Weight-In- Motion sensor system based on optical fiber Bragg grating. In contrast to the current seat occupancy sensors for vehicles, this new seat occupancy sensor has so many merits that it is very suitable to be applied in aerospace industry or high speed railway system. Moreover, combined with existing Fiber Bragg Grating strain or temperature sensor systems built in airplanes, this proposed method can construct a complete airline passenger management system.

Mathematical analysis and coordinated current allocation control in battery power module systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Weiji; Zhang, Liang

2017-12-01

As the major energy storage device and power supply source in numerous energy applications, such as solar panels, wind plants, and electric vehicles, battery systems often face the issue of charge imbalance among battery cells/modules, which can accelerate battery degradation, cause more energy loss, and even incur fire hazard. To tackle this issue, various circuit designs have been developed to enable charge equalization among battery cells/modules. Recently, the battery power module (BPM) design has emerged to be one of the promising solutions for its capability of independent control of individual battery cells/modules. In this paper, we propose a new current allocation method based on charging/discharging space (CDS) for performance control in BPM systems. Based on the proposed method, the properties of CDS-based current allocation with constant parameters are analyzed. Then, real-time external total power requirement is taken into account and an algorithm is developed for coordinated system performance control. By choosing appropriate control parameters, the desired system performance can be achieved by coordinating the module charge balance and total power efficiency. Besides, the proposed algorithm has complete analytical solutions, and thus is very computationally efficient. Finally, the efficacy of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated using simulations.

A knowledge engineering framework towards clinical support for adverse drug event prevention: the PSIP approach.

PubMed

Koutkias, Vassilis; Stalidis, George; Chouvarda, Ioanna; Lazou, Katerina; Kilintzis, Vassilis; Maglaveras, Nicos

2009-01-01

Adverse Drug Events (ADEs) are currently considered as a major public health issue, endangering patients' safety and causing significant healthcare costs. Several research efforts are currently concentrating on the reduction of preventable ADEs by employing Information Technology (IT) solutions, which aim to provide healthcare professionals and patients with relevant knowledge and decision support tools. In this context, we present a knowledge engineering approach towards the construction of a Knowledge-based System (KBS) regarded as the core part of a CDSS (Clinical Decision Support System) for ADE prevention, all developed in the context of the EU-funded research project PSIP (Patient Safety through Intelligent Procedures in Medication). In the current paper, we present the knowledge sources considered in PSIP and the implications they pose to knowledge engineering, the methodological approach followed, as well as the components defining the knowledge engineering framework based on relevant state-of-the-art technologies and representation formalisms.

Fee-for-service will remain a feature of major payment reforms, requiring more changes in Medicare physician payment.

PubMed

Ginsburg, Paul B

2012-09-01

Many health policy analysts envision provider payment reforms currently under development as replacements for the traditional fee-for-service payment system. Reforms include per episode bundled payment and elements of capitation, such as global payments or accountable care organizations. But even if these approaches succeed and are widely adopted, the core method of payment to many physicians for the services they provide is likely to remain fee-for-service. It is therefore critical to address the current shortcomings in the Medicare physician fee schedule, because it will affect physician incentives and will continue to play an important role in determining the payment amounts under payment reform. This article reviews how the current payment system developed and is applied, and it highlights areas that require careful review and modification to ensure the success of broader payment reform.

Using Human Factors Methods to Design a New Interface for an Electronic Medical Record

PubMed Central

Saleem, Jason J.; Patterson, Emily S.; Militello, Laura; Asch, Steven M.; Doebbeling, Bradley N.; Render, Marta L.

2007-01-01

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is a leader in development and use of electronic patient records and clinical decision support. The VHA is currently reengineering a somewhat dated platform for its Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS). This process affords a unique opportunity to implement major changes to the current design and function of the system. We report on two human factors studies designed to provide input and guidance during this reengineering process. One study involved a card sort to better understand how providers tend to cognitively organize clinical data, and how that understanding can help guide interface design. The other involved a simulation to assess the impact of redesign modifications on computerized clinical reminders, a form of clinical decision support in the CPRS, on the learnability of the system for first-time users. PMID:18693914

Fundamental CRISPR-Cas9 tools and current applications in microbial systems.

PubMed

Tian, Pingfang; Wang, Jia; Shen, Xiaolin; Rey, Justin Forrest; Yuan, Qipeng; Yan, Yajun

2017-09-01

Derived from the bacterial adaptive immune system, CRISPR technology has revolutionized conventional genetic engineering methods and unprecedentedly facilitated strain engineering. In this review, we outline the fundamental CRISPR tools that have been employed for strain optimization. These tools include CRISPR editing, CRISPR interference, CRISPR activation and protein imaging. To further characterize the CRISPR technology, we present current applications of these tools in microbial systems, including model- and non-model industrial microorganisms. Specially, we point out the major challenges of the CRISPR tools when utilized for multiplex genome editing and sophisticated expression regulation. To address these challenges, we came up with strategies that place emphasis on the amelioration of DNA repair efficiency through CRISPR-Cas9-assisted recombineering. Lastly, multiple promising research directions were proposed, mainly focusing on CRISPR-based construction of microbial ecosystems toward high production of desired chemicals.

Development of a health care systems curriculum

PubMed Central

Pruitt, Zachary; Mhaskar, Rahul; Kane, Bryan G; Barraco, Robert D; DeWaay, Deborah J; Rosenau, Alex M; Bresnan, Kristin A; Greenberg, Marna Rayl

2017-01-01

Background There is currently no gold standard for delivery of systems-based practice in medical education, and it is challenging to incorporate into medical education. Health systems competence requires physicians to understand patient care within the broader health care system and is vital to improving the quality of care clinicians provide. We describe a health systems curriculum that utilizes problem-based learning across 4 years of systems-based practice medical education at a single institution. Methods This case study describes the application of a problem-based learning approach to system-based practice medical education. A series of behavioral statements, called entrustable professional activities, was created to assess student health system competence. Student evaluation of course curriculum design, delivery, and assessment was provided through web-based surveys. Results To meet competency standards for system-based practice, a health systems curriculum was developed and delivered across 4 years of medical school training. Each of the health system lectures and problem-based learning activities are described herein. The majority of first and second year medical students stated they gained working knowledge of health systems by engaging in these sessions. The majority of the 2016 graduating students (88.24%) felt that the course content, overall, prepared them for their career. Conclusion A health systems curriculum in undergraduate medical education using a problem-based learning approach is feasible. The majority of students learning health systems curriculum through this format reported being prepared to improve individual patient care and optimize the health system’s value (better care and health for lower cost). PMID:29138614

Development of controlled drug delivery systems for bone fracture-targeted therapeutic delivery: A review.

PubMed

Wang, Yuchen; Newman, Maureen R; Benoit, Danielle S W

2018-06-01

Impaired fracture healing is a major clinical problem that can lead to patient disability, prolonged hospitalization, and significant financial burden. Although the majority of fractures heal using standard clinical practices, approximately 10% suffer from delayed unions or non-unions. A wide range of factors contribute to the risk for nonunions including internal factors, such as patient age, gender, and comorbidities, and external factors, such as the location and extent of injury. Current clinical approaches to treat nonunions include bone grafts and low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS), which realizes clinical success only to select patients due to limitations including donor morbidities (grafts) and necessity of fracture reduction (LIPUS), respectively. To date, therapeutic approaches for bone regeneration rely heavily on protein-based growth factors such as INFUSE, an FDA-approved scaffold for delivery of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2). Small molecule modulators and RNAi therapeutics are under development to circumvent challenges associated with traditional growth factors. While preclinical studies has shown promise, drug delivery has become a major hurdle stalling clinical translation. Therefore, this review overviews current therapies employed to stimulate fracture healing pre-clinically and clinically, including a focus on drug delivery systems for growth factors, parathyroid hormone (PTH), small molecules, and RNAi therapeutics, as well as recent advances and future promise of fracture-targeted drug delivery. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Current state of biology and diagnosis of clonal mast cell diseases in adults.

PubMed

Alvarez-Twose, I; Morgado, J M; Sánchez-Muñoz, L; García-Montero, A; Mollejo, M; Orfao, A; Escribano, L

2012-10-01

Mastocytosis comprises a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by the presence of clonal mast cells (MC) in organs such as skin, bone marrow (BM), and gastrointestinal tract, among other tissues. The clonal nature of the disease can be established in most adult patients by the demonstration of activating KIT mutations in their BM MC. When highly sensitive techniques capable of identifying cells present at very low frequencies in a sample are applied, BM MC from virtually all systemic mastocytosis patients display unique immunophenotypical features, particularly the aberrant expression of CD25. By contrast, large, multifocal BM MC aggregates (the only World Health Organization major criterion for systemic mastocytosis) are absent in a significant proportion of patients fulfilling at least three minor criteria for systemic mastocytosis, particularly in subjects studied at early stages of the disease with very low MC burden. Moreover, recent molecular and immunophenotypical investigations of BM MC from patients with indolent systemic mastocytosis have revealed a close association of some biological features (e.g., multilineage involvement of hematopoiesis by the KIT mutation and an immature mast cell immunophenotype) with an increased risk for disease progression. These observations support the fact that, although the current consensus diagnostic criteria for systemic mastocytosis have been a major advance for the diagnosis and classification of the disease, rationale usage of the most sensitive diagnostic techniques available nowadays is needed to improve the diagnosis, refine the classification, and reach objective prognostic stratification of adult mastocytosis. © 2012 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

An overview of New Zealand's trauma system.

PubMed

Paice, Rhondda

2007-01-01

Patterns of trauma and trauma systems in New Zealand are similar to those in Australia. Both countries have geographical considerations, terrain and distance, that can cause delay to definitive care. There are only 7 hospitals in New Zealand that currently manage major trauma patients, and consequently, trauma patients are often hospitalized some distance from their homes. The prehospital services are provided by one major provider throughout the country, with a high level of volunteers providing these services in the rural areas. New Zealand has a national no-fault accident insurance system, the Accident Compensation Corporation, which funds all trauma-related healthcare from the roadside to rehabilitation. This insurance system provides 24-hour no-fault personal injury insurance coverage. The Accident Compensation Corporation provides bulk funding to hospitals for resources to manage the care of trauma patients. Case managers are assigned for major trauma patients. This national system also has a rehabilitation focus. The actual funds are managed by the hospitals, and this allows hospital staff to provide optimum care for trauma patients. New Zealand works closely with Australia in the development of a national trauma registry, research, and education in trauma care for patients in Australasia (the islands of the southern Pacific Ocean, including Australia, New Zealand, and New Guinea).

In Vitro Cerebrovascular Modeling in the 21st Century: Current and Prospective Technologies

PubMed Central

Palmiotti, Christopher A.; Prasad, Shikha; Naik, Pooja; Abul, Kaisar MD; Sajja, Ravi K.; Achyuta, Anilkumar H.; Cucullo, Luca

2014-01-01

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) maintains the brain homeostasis and dynamically responds to events associated with systemic and/or rheological impairments (e.g., inflammation, ischemia) including the exposure to harmful xenobiotics. Thus, understanding the BBB physiology is crucial for the resolution of major central nervous system CNS) disorders challenging both health care providers and the pharmaceutical industry. These challenges include drug delivery to the brain, neurological disorders, toxicological studies, and biodefense. Studies aimed at advancing our understanding of CNS diseases and promoting the development of more effective therapeutics are primarily performed in laboratory animals. However, there are major hindering factors inherent to in vivo studies such as cost, limited throughput and translational significance to humans. These factors promoted the development of alternative in vitro strategies for studying the physiology and pathophysiology of the BBB in relation to brain disorders as well as screening tools to aid in the development of novel CNS drugs. Herein, we provide a detailed review including pros and cons of current and prospective technologies for modelling the BBB in vitro including ex situ, cell based and computational (in silico) models. A special section is dedicated to microfluidic systems including micro-BBB, BBB-on-a-chip, Neurovascular Unit-on-a-Chip and Synthetic Microvasculature Blood-Brain Barrier. PMID:25098812

In vitro cerebrovascular modeling in the 21st century: current and prospective technologies.

PubMed

Palmiotti, Christopher A; Prasad, Shikha; Naik, Pooja; Abul, Kaisar M D; Sajja, Ravi K; Achyuta, Anilkumar H; Cucullo, Luca

2014-12-01

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) maintains the brain homeostasis and dynamically responds to events associated with systemic and/or rheological impairments (e.g., inflammation, ischemia) including the exposure to harmful xenobiotics. Thus, understanding the BBB physiology is crucial for the resolution of major central nervous system CNS) disorders challenging both health care providers and the pharmaceutical industry. These challenges include drug delivery to the brain, neurological disorders, toxicological studies, and biodefense. Studies aimed at advancing our understanding of CNS diseases and promoting the development of more effective therapeutics are primarily performed in laboratory animals. However, there are major hindering factors inherent to in vivo studies such as cost, limited throughput and translational significance to humans. These factors promoted the development of alternative in vitro strategies for studying the physiology and pathophysiology of the BBB in relation to brain disorders as well as screening tools to aid in the development of novel CNS drugs. Herein, we provide a detailed review including pros and cons of current and prospective technologies for modelling the BBB in vitro including ex situ, cell based and computational (in silico) models. A special section is dedicated to microfluidic systems including micro-BBB, BBB-on-a-chip, Neurovascular Unit-on-a-Chip and Synthetic Microvasculature Blood-brain Barrier.

Transport across the choroid plexus epithelium.

PubMed

Praetorius, Jeppe; Damkier, Helle Hasager

2017-06-01

The choroid plexus epithelium is a secretory epithelium par excellence. However, this is perhaps not the most prominent reason for the massive interest in this modest-sized tissue residing inside the brain ventricles. Most likely, the dominant reason for extensive studies of the choroid plexus is the identification of this epithelium as the source of the majority of intraventricular cerebrospinal fluid. This finding has direct relevance for studies of diseases and conditions with deranged central fluid volume or ionic balance. While the concept is supported by the vast majority of the literature, the implication of the choroid plexus in secretion of the cerebrospinal fluid was recently challenged once again. Three newer and promising areas of current choroid plexus-related investigations are as follows: 1 ) the choroid plexus epithelium as the source of mediators necessary for central nervous system development, 2 ) the choroid plexus as a route for microorganisms and immune cells into the central nervous system, and 3 ) the choroid plexus as a potential route for drug delivery into the central nervous system, bypassing the blood-brain barrier. Thus, the purpose of this review is to highlight current active areas of research in the choroid plexus physiology and a few matters of continuous controversy. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Ocular Changes and Approaches of Ophthalmopathy in Basedow – Graves- Parry- Flajani Disease

PubMed Central

SARACI, George; TRETA, Anamaria

2011-01-01

ABSTRACT Basedow-Graves disease is an autoimmune condition with multiple local and systemic aspects. Among these, oculopathy has a major impact on patient's life from both functional and esthetic point of view. Basedow-Graves oculopathy requires an appropriate positive and differential diagnosis using clinical and imagistic approaches. Treatment is always required in moderate or severe forms and it begins with simple general points and continues with medical and surgical therapies. Current article stresses upon the most characteristic clinical signs of thyroidian ophthalmopathy and the required current therapeutic approaches. PMID:22205899

Preliminary test results of electrical charged particle generator for application to fog dispersal

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frost, W.

1982-01-01

A charged particle generator for use in fog dispersal applications was built and preliminary tests were carried out. The parameter used as a measure of performance was the current measured with a needle probe positioned in the charged jet connected to ground through an ammeter. The needle was movable and allowed the current profile throughout the jet to be determined. The measured current is referred to as the current output. The major independent parameters were liquid water injection rate, plenum pressure, and corona voltage. Optimum current output was achieved at the approximate pressure of 30 psig, corona voltage of 5600 volts, and liquid water injection rate of 6 cc/min. The results of the test with the prototype charged particle generator clearly demonstrate that a current on the order of 20 microamperes can be routinely achieved with the system. This measurement of current does not necessarily represent the total issuing from the nozzle current which is expected to be larger. From these results, confidence was established that a charged particle generator which will operate continuously and consistently can be designed, constructed, and operated. Further work is required, however, to better understand the physical mechanisms involved and to optimize the system for fog dispersal application.

Relationships between patient size, dose and image noise under automatic tube current modulation systems.

PubMed

Sookpeng, S; Martin, C J; Gentle, D J; Lopez-Gonzalez, M R

2014-03-01

Automatic tube current modulation (ATCM) systems are now used for the majority of CT scans. The principles of ATCM operation are different in CT scanners from different manufacturers. Toshiba and GE scanners base the current modulation on a target noise setting, while Philips and Siemens scanners use reference image and reference mAs concepts respectively. Knowledge of the relationships between patient size, dose and image noise are important for CT patient dose optimisation. In this study, the CT patient doses were surveyed for 14 CT scanners from four different CT scanner manufacturers. The patient cross sectional area, the tube current modulation and the image noise from the CT images were analysed using in-house software. The Toshiba and GE scanner results showed that noise levels are relatively constant but tube currents are dependent on patient size. As a result of this there is a wide range in tube current values across different patient sizes, and doses for large patients are significantly higher in these scanners. In contrast, in the Philips and Siemens scanners, tube currents are less dependent on patient size, the range in tube current is narrower, and the doses for larger patients are not as high. Image noise is more dependent on the patient size.

[Progress in the protective medicine against [correction of aganist] rocket propellents].

PubMed

Hu, W X; Tan, C Y; Tan, S J; Jiang, J

1999-12-01

To review the progress in the major assignment, the organization and implementation of protection against liquid rocket propellent. The safety detection methods of the rocket [correction of rocked] propellent in the launching field were also discussed. Three steps of the sanitation and protection of the liquid propellent, the toxicity and the toxicology of hydrazine on central nervous system, blood circulatory system, assimilation system, respiratory system, immune system, liver, kidney, eye, skin and its hereditary toxicology were described. In addition, the clinical types of poisoning, the current principle and the common ways of the prevention and treatment of hydrazine and nitrogen oxides poisoning were summarized.

Clinical challenges associated with incorporation of nonradiology images into the electronic medical record

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siegel, Eliot L.; Reiner, Bruce I.

2001-08-01

To date, the majority of Picture Archival and Communication Systems (PACS) have been utilized only for capture, storage, and display of radiology and in some cases, nuclear medicine images. Medical images for other subspecialty areas are currently stored in local, independent systems, which typically are not accessible throughout the healthcare enterprise and do not communicate with other hospital information or image management systems. It is likely that during the next few years, healthcare centers will expand PAC system capability to incorporate these multimedia data or alternatively, hospital-wide electronic patient record systems will be able to provide this function.

Prediction of thermal behaviors of an air-cooled lithium-ion battery system for hybrid electric vehicles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Yong Seok; Kang, Dal Mo

2014-12-01

Thermal management has been one of the major issues in developing a lithium-ion (Li-ion) hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) battery system since the Li-ion battery is vulnerable to excessive heat load under abnormal or severe operational conditions. In this work, in order to design a suitable thermal management system, a simple modeling methodology describing thermal behavior of an air-cooled Li-ion battery system was proposed from vehicle components designer's point of view. A proposed mathematical model was constructed based on the battery's electrical and mechanical properties. Also, validation test results for the Li-ion battery system were presented. A pulse current duty and an adjusted US06 current cycle for a two-mode HEV system were used to validate the accuracy of the model prediction. Results showed that the present model can give good estimations for simulating convective heat transfer cooling during battery operation. The developed thermal model is useful in structuring the flow system and determining the appropriate cooling capacity for a specified design prerequisite of the battery system.

Color Helmet-Mounted Display System for In-Flight Simulation on the RASCAL Research Helicopter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edwards, Tim; Barnhart, Warren; Sawyer, Kevin; Aiken, Edwin W. (Technical Monitor)

1995-01-01

A high performance color helmet mounted display (HMD) system for in-flight simulation and research has been developed for the Rotorcraft Aircrew Systems Concepts Laboratory (RASCAL). The display system consists of a programmable display generator, a display electronics unit, a head tracker, and the helmet with display optics. The system provides a maximum of 1024 x 1280 resolution, a 4:1 contrast ratio, and a brightness of 1100fL utilizing currently available technologies. This paper describes the major features and components of the system. Also discussed are the measured performance of the system and the design techniques that allowed the development of a full color HMD.

Quality control and assurance in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation data registries in Japan and other countries.

PubMed

Kuwatsuka, Yachiyo

2016-01-01

Observational studies from national and international registries with large volumes of patients are commonly performed to identify superior strategies for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Major international and national stem cell transplant registries collect outcome data using electronic data capture systems, and a systematic study support process has been developed. Statistical support for studies is available from some major international registries, and international and national registries also mutually collaborate to promote stem cell transplant outcome studies and transplant-related activities. Transplant registries additionally take measures to improve data quality to further improve the quality of outcome studies by utilizing data capture systems and manual data management. Data auditing can potentially even further improve data quality; however, human and budgetary resources can be limiting factors in system construction and audits of the Japanese transplant registry are not currently performed.

Poultry raising systems and highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks in Thailand: the situation, associations, and impacts.

PubMed

Chantong, Wasan; Kaneene, John B

2011-05-01

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), caused by the virus strain H5N1, currently occurs worldwide with the greatest burden in Southeast Asia where the disease was first reported. In Thailand where the disease was first confirmed in January 2004, the virus had been persistent as a major threat to the poultry industry and human health over the past several years. It was generally hypothesized that the main reason for the disease to circulate in Thailand was the existence of traditional backyard chickens and free-range ducks raising systems. Consequently, this study reviewed the structure of poultry raising systems, the recent outbreaks of HPAI H5N1, the disease association to the backyard and free-grazing poultry production, and consequences of the outbreaks in Thailand. Although the major outbreaks in the country had declined, the sustaining disease surveillance and prevention are still strongly recommended.

Space Qualification Issues in Acousto-optic and Electro-optic Devices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prasad, Narasimha S.; Taylor, Edward W.; Trivedi, Sudhir; Kutcher, Sue; Soos, Jolanta

2007-01-01

Satellite and space-based applications of photonic devices and systems require operational reliability in the harsh environment of space for extended periods of time. This in turn requires every component of the systems and their packaging to meet space qualifications. Acousto- and electro-optical devices form the major components of many current space based optical systems, which is the focus of this paper. The major space qualification issues are related to: mechanical stability, thermal effects and operation of the devices in the naturally occurring space radiation environment. This paper will discuss acousto- and electro-optic materials and devices with respect to their stability against mechanical vibrations, thermal cycling in operating and non-operating conditions and device responses to space ionizing and displacement radiation effects. Selection of suitable materials and packaging to meet space qualification criteria will also be discussed. Finally, a general roadmap for production and testing of acousto- and electro-optic devices will be discussed.

Western water and climate change

USGS Publications Warehouse

Dettinger, Michael; Udall, Bradley; Georgakakos, Aris P.

2015-01-01

In this context, four iconic river basins offer glimpses into specific challenges that climate change may bring to the West. The Colorado River is a system in which overuse and growing demands are projected to be even more challenging than climate-change-induced flow reductions. The Rio Grande offers the best example of how climate-change-induced flow declines might sink a major system into permanent drought. The Klamath is currently projected to face the more benign precipitation future, but fisheries and irrigation management may face dire straits due to warming air temperatures, rising irrigation demands, and warming waters in a basin already hobbled by tensions between endangered fisheries and agricultural demands. Finally, California's Bay-Delta system is a remarkably localized and severe weakness at the heart of the region's trillion-dollar economy. It is threatened by the full range of potential climate-change impacts expected across the West, along with major vulnerabilities to increased flooding and rising sea levels.

Newly Enacted Intent Changes to ADS-B MASPS: Emphasis on Operations, Compatibility, and Integrity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barhydt, Richard; Warren, Anthony W.

2002-01-01

Significant changes to the intent reporting structure in the Minimum Aviation System Performance Standards (MASPS) for Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) have recently been approved by RTCA Special Committee 186. The re-structured intent formats incorporate two major changes to the current MASPS (DO-242): addition of a Target State (TS) report that provides information on the horizontal and vertical targets for the current flight segment and replacement of the current Trajectory Change Point (TCP) and TCP+1 reports with Trajectory Change (TC) reports. TC reports include expanded information about TCPs and their connecting flight segments, in addition to making provisions for trajectory conformance elements. New intent elements are designed to accommodate a greater range of intent information, better reflect operational use and capabilities of existing and future aircraft avionics, and aid trajectory synthesis and conformance monitoring systems. These elements are expected to benefit near-term and future Air Traffic Management (ATM) applications, including separation assurance, local traffic flow management, and conformance monitoring. The current MASPS revision (DO-242A) implements those intent elements that are supported by current avionics standards and data buses. Additional elements are provisioned for inclusion in future MASPS revisions (beyond DO-242A) as avionics systems are evolved.

Dynamic behavior and deformation analysis of the fish cage system using mass-spring model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Chun Woo; Lee, Jihoon; Park, Subong

2015-06-01

Fish cage systems are influenced by various oceanic conditions, and the movements and deformation of the system by the external forces can affect the safety of the system itself, as well as the species of fish being cultivated. Structural durability of the system against environmental factors has been major concern for the marine aquaculture system. In this research, a mathematical model and a simulation method were presented for analyzing the performance of the large-scale fish cage system influenced by current and waves. The cage system consisted of netting, mooring ropes, floats, sinkers and floating collar. All the elements were modeled by use of the mass-spring model. The structures were divided into finite elements and mass points were placed at the mid-point of each element, and mass points were connected by springs without mass. Each mass point was applied to external and internal forces, and total force was calculated in every integration step. The computation method was applied to the dynamic simulation of the actual fish cage systems rigged with synthetic fiber and copper wire simultaneously influenced by current and waves. Here, we also tried to find a relevant ratio between buoyancy and sinking force of the fish cages. The simulation results provide improved understanding of the behavior of the structure and valuable information concerning optimum ratio of the buoyancy to sinking force according to current speeds.

The Changing Attractiveness of European Higher Education in the Next Decade: Current Developments, Future Challenges and Major Policy Issues

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kwiek, Marek

2009-01-01

This article focuses on the different senses of the attractiveness of European systems and institutions for students, academics, the labour market and the economy, drawing attention to emergent tensions between different university stakeholders. Universities not only need to be attractive to increasingly differentiated student populations, but…

Family Child Care Homes Need Health and Safety Training and an Emergency Rescue System.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shallcross, Mary Ann

1999-01-01

Argues that current training in child safety, health, and emergency response are not adequate for family childcare providers. Concludes that preventing sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), preventing injury, providing safe outdoor play areas, controlling the spread of illness, and being prepared for emergencies must be of major concern and ongoing…

District Court Demands More State Investment ? All Our Children Deserve an Excellent, Equitable Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Montecel, Maria Robledo

2004-01-01

Texas educators and communities have long fought for educational equity. From the earliest major school finance cases, the pressing need for equity has been at the heart of school finance litigation. And the courts have affirmed through numerous cases that equity must be addressed. Recapture provisions in Texas? current school finance system are…

Christian Teacher Education in a Culture of "Techne": Current Developments in Teacher Accreditation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schwarz, Gretchen

2014-01-01

Teacher education has long been a major mission of Christian colleges. Many Christian as well as public universities have teacher education programs accredited by CAEP, a national organization. Self-study for improvement is important. CAEP promises high standards, but when examined more closely, the CAEP system works at cross-purposes with teacher…

Learning Experiences Reuse Based on an Ontology Modeling to Improve Adaptation in E-Learning Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hadj M'tir, Riadh; Rumpler, Béatrice; Jeribi, Lobna; Ben Ghezala, Henda

2014-01-01

Current trends in e-Learning focus mainly on personalizing and adapting the learning environment and learning process. Although their increasingly number, theses researches often ignore the concepts of capitalization and reuse of learner experiences which can be exploited later by other learners. Thus, the major challenge of distance learning is…

Predicting Personal Healthcare Management: Impact of Individual Characteristics on Patient Use of Health Information Technology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sandefer, Ryan Heath

2017-01-01

The use of health information and health information technology by consumers is a major factor in the current healthcare systems' effort to address issues related to quality, cost, and access. Patient engagement in the healthcare process through access to information related to diagnoses, procedures, and treatment has the potential to improve…

Assessing Grant Capacity and Readiness: A Systematic Review of the Periodical Literature of Research Administration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Preuss, Michael

2015-01-01

The author knew of no formalized system for appraising grant capacity and readiness so, in an effort to understand the current state of knowledge regarding assessment of these institutional factors, conducted a systematic review of the research administration literature. Every article published from 1982 through 2013 by five major journals in the…

School Finance Reform: Past, Present and Future. Issuegram 26.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Odden, Allan

This paper examines past school finance reforms of the 1970's, current reforms in the 1980's, and future reforms in the 1990's. Fiscal inequities targeted in the reforms of the seventies resulted in major structural changes in the school finance systems of over 30 states. The reforms not only improved fiscal equity but helped increase…

Recovery Coaches and Substance Exposed Births: An Experiment in Child Welfare

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ryan, Joseph P.; Choi, Sam; Hong, Jun Sung; Hernandez, Pedro; Larrison, Christopher R.

2008-01-01

Objectives: Substance exposed infants present a major challenge to child welfare and public health systems. Prenatal substance exposure and continued substance abuse in the home are associated with a wide range of adverse social, emotional, and developmental outcomes. The objective of the current study is to evaluate the use of recovery coaches in…

Sandbox CCDs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janesick, James R.; Elliott, Tom S.; Winzenread, Rusty; Pinter, Jeff H.; Dyck, Rudolph H.

1995-04-01

Seven new CCDs are presented. The devices will be used in a variety of applications ranging from generating color cinema movies to adaptive optics camera systems to compensate for atmospheric turbulence at major astronomical observatories. This paper highlights areas of design, fabrication, and operation techniques to achieve state-of-the-art performance. We discuss current limitations of CCD technology for several key parameters.

Atmosphere, ocean, and land: Critical gaps in Earth system models

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prinn, Ronald G.; Hartley, Dana

1992-01-01

We briefly review current knowledge and pinpoint some of the major areas of uncertainty for the following fundamental processes: (1) convection, condensation nuclei, and cloud formation; (2) oceanic circulation and its coupling to the atmosphere and cryosphere; (3) land surface hydrology and hydrology-vegetation coupling; (4) biogeochemistry of greenhouse gases; and (5) upper atmospheric chemistry and circulation.

NASA-OAST program in photovoltaic energy conversion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mullin, J. P.; Flood, D. J.

1982-01-01

The NASA program in photovoltaic energy conversion includes research and technology development efforts on solar cells, blankets, and arrays. The overall objectives are to increase conversion efficiency, reduce mass, reduce cost, and increase operating life. The potential growth of space power requirements in the future presents a major challenge to the current state of technology in space photovoltaic systems.

MDRC's Current and Recent Projects for Disconnected and Disadvantaged Youth

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

MDRC, 2013

2013-01-01

MDRC develops and studies programs to help young people who face major barriers in finding a path to stable adult life. Their recent roster of youth-related projects mainly targets three groups: at-risk high school students; dropouts disconnected from school and work; and system-involved youth at risk of disconnection, including youth exiting…

To Teach: Discovering the Career Path from After-School to the Teaching Profession

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Klein Williams, Marcella

2012-01-01

The education system in California currently faces three major challenges--teacher shortage, lack of diversity in the teacher population in terms of gender and ethnicity, and a need for more effective teachers. After school programs have the potential of addressing all these challenges in a cost-effective manner. However, for these programs to…

Slovakia: Health System Review.

PubMed

Smatana, Martin; Pazitny, Peter; Kandilaki, Daniela; Laktisova, Michaela; Sedlakova, Darina; Paluskova, Monika; van Ginneken, Ewout; Spranger, Anne

2016-11-01

This analysis of the Slovak health system reviews recent developments in organization and governance, health financing, health-care provision, health reforms and health system performance. The health care system in Slovakia is based on universal coverage, compulsory health insurance, a basic benefit package and a competitive insurance model with selective contracting of health care providers. Containment of health spending became a major policy goal after the 2008 financial crisis. Health spending stabilized after 2010 but remains well below European averages. Some health indicators, such as life expectancy, healthy life years and avoidable deaths are worrisome. Furthermore, weak hospital management, high numbers of unused acute beds, overprescribing pharmaceuticals, and poor gatekeeping of the system all lead to over-utilization of services and system inefficiency. This suggests substantial room for improvement in delivery of care, especially for primary and long-term care. Additionally, there is inequity in the distribution of health providers, resulting in lengthy travelling distances and waiting times for patients. Given the ageing workforce, this trend is likely to continue. Current strategic documents and reform efforts aim to address the lack of efficiency and accountability. There has been a strong will to tackle these challenges but this has often been hindered by a lack of political consensus over issues such as the role of the state, the appropriate role of market mechanisms and profits, as well as the extent of out-of-pocket payments. Successive governments have taken different positions on these issues since the establishment of the current health system in 2002, and major reforms remain to be implemented. World Health Organization 2016 (acting as the host organization for, and secretariat of, the European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies).

Perspectives for Expanded Ocean Observing on the Southeast Florida Shelf and between Cuba and the Bahamas and the US

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Soloviev, A.; Dodge, R. E.; Proni, J.

2012-12-01

A long term ocean observing system was established on the Southeast Florida shelf near Ft. Lauderdale by the Nova Southeastern University Oceanographic Center (NSUOC) in late 1990s as a cooperative agreement between the NSU Oceanographic Center and USF College of Marine Science. The system has been supported and upgraded during a number of projects funded by the US federal government and private industries. Currently it consists of two ADCP moorings deployed at 240 m and 11 m isobath and coastal meteorological station and primarily serves to support the Office of Naval Research and other Federal agencies projects. During active observational phases, the area is monitored using the new generation of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) satellites (TerraSAR-X, Cosmo SkyMed, ALOS PALSAR, RADARSAT 2). The NSUOC Ocean observing system is a component of SECOORA, which has been integrating coastal and ocean observing data in the Southeast United States as a part of IOOS. In this paper we overview the results obtained during more than a decade of observations and discuss perspectives for expanded ocean observing on the Southeast Florida Shelf and between Cuba, Bahamas and US. Increased ocean observations are needed of the major western boundary current, known as the Loop Current in the Gulf of Mexico and the Florida Current in the Straits Florida. This ocean current occurs to the west and north of Cuba and along the southeast US. Observations will provide better understanding of the processes that maintain, and account for, the current variability and will be useful in myriad practical applications. A major application is the need to monitor the occurrence of, and to forecast entrainment, trajectories, and detrainment of, potential oil spills that may propagate from Cuban drilling sites located along the north coast of Cuba as well as from proposed drilling in the Bahamas. Such ocean observation information can be used as input for operational response models and result in best mitigation practices for an oil spill capable of significantly and adversely affecting US natural resources. The unique and valuable natural resources of the southeastern United States merit and need the best ocean observational system the scientific community can provide.

Waste management in the Irkutsk region, Siberia, Russia: An environmental assessment of alternative development scenarios.

PubMed

Starostina, Vlada; Damgaard, Anders; Eriksen, Marie K; Christensen, Thomas H

2018-04-01

The current waste management system, handling around 500,000 t of household, commercial, and institutional waste annually in the Irkutsk region, Siberia, is based on landfilling in an old landfill with no controls of leachate and gas. Life-cycle assessment modelling of the current system shows that it is a major load on the environment, while the simulation of seven alternative systems results in large savings in many impact categories. With respect to climate change, it is estimated that a saving of about 1200 kg CO 2 equivalents is possible per year, per inhabitant, which is a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The best alternatives involve efficient energy recovery from waste and recycling by source separation for commercial and institutional waste, the major waste type in the Irkutsk region. Recycling of household waste seems less attractive, and it is therefore recommended only to consider this option after experience has been gained with the commercial and institutional waste. Sensitivity analysis shows that recovery of energy - in particular electricity, heat, and steam - from waste is crucial to the environmental performance of the waste management system. This relates to the efficiencies of energy recovery as well as what the recovered energy substitutes, that is, the 'dirtier' the off-set energy, the higher the environmental savings for the waste management system. Since recovered energy may be utilised by only a few energy grids or industrial users, it is recommended to perform additional local assessments of the integration of the waste energy into existing systems and facilities.

Analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in the development of a health technology assessment program in Turkey.

PubMed

Kahveci, Rabia; Meads, Catherine

2008-01-01

The Turkish healthcare system is currently undergoing reform, and efficient use of resources has become a key factor in determining the allocation of resources. The objective of this study was to analyze strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) in the development of a health technology assessment (HTA) program in Turkey. A SWOT analysis was performed using a literature review and interviews with key people in the Turkish Ministry of Health and Ministry of Labor and Social Security. Regarding recent reforms in health care, investments for information network and databank are the strengths, but the traditional "expert-based" decision making, poor availability of data, and poor quality of data could be seen as some of the weaknesses. Another major weakness is lack of general awareness of HTA. Increasing demand for transparency in decision making, demand for evidence, and demand for credibility by decision makers are some of the opportunities, and current healthcare reforms, i.e., restructuring of healthcare and general health insurance, could also be seen as major opportunities. These opportunities unfortunately could be threatened by lack of funding, and resources are challenged by large, recent national investments. There is a good opportunity for Turkey to use the skills in HTA currently being developed through activities in Europe and the Americas to assist in the development of a much more cost-effective and transparent healthcare system in Turkey.

New technology for using meteorological information in forest insect pest forecast and warning systems.

PubMed

Qin, Jiang-Lin; Yang, Xiu-Hao; Yang, Zhong-Wu; Luo, Ji-Tong; Lei, Xiu-Feng

2017-12-01

Near surface air temperature and rainfall are major weather factors affecting forest insect dynamics. The recent developments in remote sensing retrieval and geographic information system spatial analysis techniques enable the utilization of weather factors to significantly enhance forest pest forecasting and warning systems. The current study focused on building forest pest digital data structures as a platform of correlation analysis between weather conditions and forest pest dynamics for better pest forecasting and warning systems using the new technologies. The study dataset contained 3 353 425 small polygons with 174 defined attributes covering 95 counties of Guangxi province of China currently registering 292 forest pest species. Field data acquisition and information transfer systems were established with four software licences that provided 15-fold improvement compared to the systems currently used in China. Nine technical specifications were established including codes of forest districts, pest species and host tree species, and standard practices of forest pest monitoring and information management. Attributes can easily be searched using ArcGIS9.3 and/or the free QGIS2.16 software. Small polygons with pest relevant attributes are a new tool of precision farming and detailed forest insect pest management that are technologically advanced. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Developing syndrome definitions based on consensus and current use

PubMed Central

Dowling, John N; Baer, Atar; Buckeridge, David L; Cochrane, Dennis; Conway, Michael A; Elkin, Peter; Espino, Jeremy; Gunn, Julia E; Hales, Craig M; Hutwagner, Lori; Keller, Mikaela; Larson, Catherine; Noe, Rebecca; Okhmatovskaia, Anya; Olson, Karen; Paladini, Marc; Scholer, Matthew; Sniegoski, Carol; Thompson, David; Lober, Bill

2010-01-01

Objective Standardized surveillance syndromes do not exist but would facilitate sharing data among surveillance systems and comparing the accuracy of existing systems. The objective of this study was to create reference syndrome definitions from a consensus of investigators who currently have or are building syndromic surveillance systems. Design Clinical condition–syndrome pairs were catalogued for 10 surveillance systems across the United States and the representatives of these systems were brought together for a workshop to discuss consensus syndrome definitions. Results Consensus syndrome definitions were generated for the four syndromes monitored by the majority of the 10 participating surveillance systems: Respiratory, gastrointestinal, constitutional, and influenza-like illness (ILI). An important element in coming to consensus quickly was the development of a sensitive and specific definition for respiratory and gastrointestinal syndromes. After the workshop, the definitions were refined and supplemented with keywords and regular expressions, the keywords were mapped to standard vocabularies, and a web ontology language (OWL) ontology was created. Limitations The consensus definitions have not yet been validated through implementation. Conclusion The consensus definitions provide an explicit description of the current state-of-the-art syndromes used in automated surveillance, which can subsequently be systematically evaluated against real data to improve the definitions. The method for creating consensus definitions could be applied to other domains that have diverse existing definitions. PMID:20819870

Developing syndrome definitions based on consensus and current use.

PubMed

Chapman, Wendy W; Dowling, John N; Baer, Atar; Buckeridge, David L; Cochrane, Dennis; Conway, Michael A; Elkin, Peter; Espino, Jeremy; Gunn, Julia E; Hales, Craig M; Hutwagner, Lori; Keller, Mikaela; Larson, Catherine; Noe, Rebecca; Okhmatovskaia, Anya; Olson, Karen; Paladini, Marc; Scholer, Matthew; Sniegoski, Carol; Thompson, David; Lober, Bill

2010-01-01

Standardized surveillance syndromes do not exist but would facilitate sharing data among surveillance systems and comparing the accuracy of existing systems. The objective of this study was to create reference syndrome definitions from a consensus of investigators who currently have or are building syndromic surveillance systems. Clinical condition-syndrome pairs were catalogued for 10 surveillance systems across the United States and the representatives of these systems were brought together for a workshop to discuss consensus syndrome definitions. Consensus syndrome definitions were generated for the four syndromes monitored by the majority of the 10 participating surveillance systems: Respiratory, gastrointestinal, constitutional, and influenza-like illness (ILI). An important element in coming to consensus quickly was the development of a sensitive and specific definition for respiratory and gastrointestinal syndromes. After the workshop, the definitions were refined and supplemented with keywords and regular expressions, the keywords were mapped to standard vocabularies, and a web ontology language (OWL) ontology was created. The consensus definitions have not yet been validated through implementation. The consensus definitions provide an explicit description of the current state-of-the-art syndromes used in automated surveillance, which can subsequently be systematically evaluated against real data to improve the definitions. The method for creating consensus definitions could be applied to other domains that have diverse existing definitions.

A Review of Major Nursing Vocabularies and the Extent to Which They Have the Characteristics Required for Implementation in Computer-based Systems

PubMed Central

Henry, Suzanne Bakken; Warren, Judith J.; Lange, Linda; Button, Patricia

1998-01-01

Building on the work of previous authors, the Computer-based Patient Record Institute (CPRI) Work Group on Codes and Structures has described features of a classification scheme for implementation within a computer-based patient record. The authors of the current study reviewed the evaluation literature related to six major nursing vocabularies (the North American Nursing Diagnosis Association Taxonomy 1, the Nursing Interventions Classification, the Nursing Outcomes Classification, the Home Health Care Classification, the Omaha System, and the International Classification for Nursing Practice) to determine the extent to which the vocabularies include the CPRI features. None of the vocabularies met all criteria. The Omaha System, Home Health Care Classification, and International Classification for Nursing Practice each included five features. Criteria not fully met by any systems were clear and non-redundant representation of concepts, administrative cross-references, syntax and grammar, synonyms, uncertainty, context-free identifiers, and language independence. PMID:9670127

Brain mechanisms that control sleep and waking

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Siegel, Jerome

This review paper presents a brief historical survey of the technological and early research that laid the groundwork for recent advances in sleep-waking research. A major advance in this field occurred shortly after the end of World War II with the discovery of the ascending reticular activating system (ARAS) as the neural source in the brain stem of the waking state. Subsequent research showed that the brain stem activating system produced cortical arousal via two pathways: a dorsal route through the thalamus and a ventral route through the hypothalamus and basal forebrain. The nuclei, pathways, and neurotransmitters that comprise the multiple components of these arousal systems are described. Sleep is now recognized as being composed of two very different states: rapid eye movements (REMs) sleep and non-REM sleep. The major findings on the neural mechanisms that control these two sleep states are presented. This review ends with a discussion of two current views on the function of sleep: to maintain the integrity of the immune system and to enhance memory consolidation.

A literature update elucidating production of Panax ginsenosides with a special focus on strategies enriching the anti-neoplastic minor ginsenosides in ginseng preparations.

PubMed

Biswas, Tanya; Mathur, A K; Mathur, Archana

2017-05-01

Ginseng, an oriental gift to the world of healthcare and preventive medicine, is among the top ten medicinal herbs globally. The constitutive triterpene saponins, ginsenosides, or panaxosides are attributed to ginseng's miraculous efficacy towards anti-aging, rejuvenating, and immune-potentiating benefits. The major ginsenosides such as Rb1, Rb2, Rc, Rd., Re, and Rg1, formed after extensive glycosylations of the aglycone "dammaranediol," dominate the chemical profile of this genus in vivo and in vitro. Elicitations have successfully led to appreciable enhancements in the production of these major ginsenosides. However, current research on ginseng biotechnology has been focusing on the enrichment or production of the minor ginsenosides (the less glycosylated precursors of the major ginsenosides) in ginseng preparations, which are either absent or are produced in very low amounts in nature or via cell cultures. The minor ginsenosides under current scientific scrutiny include diol ginsenosides such as Rg3, Rh2, compound K, and triol ginsenosides Rg2 and Rh1, which are being touted as the next "anti-neoplastic pharmacophores," with better bioavailability and potency as compared to the major ginsenosides. This review aims at describing the strategies for ginsenoside production with special attention towards production of the minor ginsenosides from the major ginsenosides via microbial biotransformation, elicitations, and from heterologous expression systems.

Solid-State Fault Current Limiter Development : Design and Testing Update of a 15kV SSCL Power Stack

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

Dr. Ram Adapa; Mr. Dante Piccone

2012-04-30

ABSTRACT The Solid-State Fault Current Limiter (SSCL) is a promising technology that can be applied to utility power delivery systems to address the problem of increasing fault currents associated with load growth. As demand continues to grow, more power is added to utility system either by increasing generator capacity or by adding distributed generators, resulting in higher available fault currents, often beyond the capabilities of the present infrastructure. The SSCL is power-electronics based equipment designed to work with the present utility system to address this problem. The SSCL monitors the line current and dynamically inserts additional impedance into the linemore » in the event of a fault being detected. The SSCL is based on a modular design and can be configured for 5kV through 69kV systems at nominal current ratings of 1000A to 4000A. Results and Findings This report provides the final test results on the development of 15kV class SSCL single phase power stack. The scope of work included the design of the modular standard building block sub-assemblies, the design and manufacture of the power stack and the testing of the power stack for the key functional tests of continuous current capability and fault current limiting action. Challenges and Objectives Solid-State Current Limiter technology impacts a wide spectrum of utility engineering and operating personnel. It addresses the problems associated with load growth both at Transmission and Distribution class networks. The design concept is pioneering in terms of developing the most efficient and compact power electronics equipment for utility use. The initial test results of the standard building blocks are promising. The independent laboratory tests of the power stack are promising. However the complete 3 phase system needs rigorous testing for performance and reliability. Applications, Values, and Use The SSCL is an intelligent power-electronics device which is modular in design and can provide current limiting or current interrupting capabilities. It can be applied to variety of applications from distribution class to transmission class power delivery grids and networks. It can also be applied to single major commercial and industrial loads and distributed generator supplies. The active switching of devices can be further utilized for protection of substation transformers. The stress on the system can be reduced substantially improving the life of the power system. It minimizes the voltage sag by speedy elimination of heavy fault currents and promises to be an important element of the utility power system. DOE Perspective This development effort is now focused on a 15kV system. This project will help mitigate the challenges of increasing available fault current. DOE has made a major contribution in providing a cost effective SSCL designed to integrate seamlessly into the Transmission and Distribution networks of today and the future. Approach SSCL development program for a 69kV SSCL was initiated which included the use of the Super GTO advanced semiconductor device which won the 2007 R&D100 Award. In the beginning, steps were identified to accomplish the economically viable design of a 69kV class Solid State Current Limiter that is extremely reliable, cost effective, and compact enough to be applied in urban transmission. The prime thrust in design and development was to encompass the 1000A and the 3000A ratings and provide a modular design to cover the wide range of applications. The focus of the project was then shifted to a 15kV class SSCL. The specifications for the 15kV power stack are reviewed. The design changes integrated into the 15kV power stack are discussed. In this Technical Update the complete project is summarized followed by a detailed test report. The power stack independent high voltage laboratory test requirements and results are presented. Keywords Solid State Current Limiter, SSCL, Fault Current Limiter, Fault Current Controller, Power electronics controller, Intelligent power-electronics Device, IED« less

Grain Handling and Transportation Policy in Canada: Implications for the United States

DOE PAGES

Nolan, James; Peterson, Steven K

2015-08-01

The grain handling and transportation system in Canada (GHTS) is currently going through a major transition, both with respect to handling and transportation. Historically, the system has pitted farmers against the railways with respect to securing individual fair shares of grain revenues. But with the removal of the single desk marketing and logistics function of the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) in late 2012, a very interesting and potentially game-changing outcome is emerging with respect to the new functionality of the grain companies in the Canadian system. While historical awareness of rail s natural monopoly position in the grain handling systemmore » has kept that sector regulated (in several ways) for close to a century, we are now starting to see the effects of a less than competitive Canadian grain handling sector on revenue sharing, along with renewed movement in the industry with respect to buyouts and potential mergers. This overview will highlight some of the changes now occurring and how they are potentially going to interact or evolve as the system moves forward. For example, the on-going regulatory instrument used to regulate grain transportation rates in Canada (called the maximum revenue entitlement (MRE) or revenue cap) is under current debate because of the introduction a few months ago of a modification to an old regulatory instrument known as extended (or reciprocal) interswitching. As opposed to the revenue cap which is a direct intervention on monopoly behavior, extended interswitching is designed to encourage the major Canadian grain carriers to compete with one another and potentially seek out new traffic (Nolan and Skotheim, 2008). But the most intriguing aspect of extended interswitching is how it might allow a major rail carrier from the U.S. to solicit grain traffic in some areas of the Canadian grain transportation system.« less

Grain Handling and Transportation Policy in Canada: Implications for the United States

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

Nolan, James; Peterson, Steven K

The grain handling and transportation system in Canada (GHTS) is currently going through a major transition, both with respect to handling and transportation. Historically, the system has pitted farmers against the railways with respect to securing individual fair shares of grain revenues. But with the removal of the single desk marketing and logistics function of the Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) in late 2012, a very interesting and potentially game-changing outcome is emerging with respect to the new functionality of the grain companies in the Canadian system. While historical awareness of rail s natural monopoly position in the grain handling systemmore » has kept that sector regulated (in several ways) for close to a century, we are now starting to see the effects of a less than competitive Canadian grain handling sector on revenue sharing, along with renewed movement in the industry with respect to buyouts and potential mergers. This overview will highlight some of the changes now occurring and how they are potentially going to interact or evolve as the system moves forward. For example, the on-going regulatory instrument used to regulate grain transportation rates in Canada (called the maximum revenue entitlement (MRE) or revenue cap) is under current debate because of the introduction a few months ago of a modification to an old regulatory instrument known as extended (or reciprocal) interswitching. As opposed to the revenue cap which is a direct intervention on monopoly behavior, extended interswitching is designed to encourage the major Canadian grain carriers to compete with one another and potentially seek out new traffic (Nolan and Skotheim, 2008). But the most intriguing aspect of extended interswitching is how it might allow a major rail carrier from the U.S. to solicit grain traffic in some areas of the Canadian grain transportation system.« less

Autonomous Mechanical Assembly on the Space Shuttle: An Overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Raibert, M. H.

1979-01-01

The space shuttle will be equipped with a pair of 50 ft. manipulators used to handle payloads and to perform mechanical assembly operations. Although current plans call for these manipulators to be operated by a human teleoperator. The possibility of using results from robotics and machine intelligence to automate this shuttle assembly system was investigated. The major components of an autonomous mechanical assembly system are examined, along with the technology base upon which they depend. The state of the art in advanced automation is also assessed.

Control system development for a 1 MW/e/ solar thermal power plant

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Daubert, E. R.; Bergthold, F. M., Jr.; Fulton, D. G.

1981-01-01

The point-focusing distributed receiver power plant considered consists of a number of power modules delivering power to a central collection point. Each power module contains a parabolic dish concentrator with a closed-cycle receiver/turbine/alternator assembly. Currently, a single-module prototype plant is under construction. The major control system tasks required are related to concentrator pointing control, receiver temperature control, and turbine speed control. Attention is given to operational control details, control hardware and software, and aspects of CRT output display.

Fiber-optic technology for transport aircraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1993-07-01

A development status evaluation is presented for fiber-optic devices that are advantageously applicable to commercial aircraft. Current developmental efforts at a major U.S. military and commercial aircraft manufacturer encompass installation techniques and data distribution practices, as well as the definition and refinement of an optical propulsion management interface system, environmental sensing systems, and component-qualification criteria. Data distribution is the most near-term implementable of fiber-optic technologies aboard commercial aircraft in the form of onboard local-area networks for intercomputer connections and passenger entertainment.

A Plan for the Development and Demonstration of Optical Communications for Deep Space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lesh, J. R.; Deutsch, L. J.; Weber, W. J.

1990-01-01

In this article, an overall plan for the development and demonstration of optical communications for deep-space applications is presented. The current state of the technology for optical communications is presented. Then, the development and demonstration plan is presented in two parts: the overall major systems activities, followed by the generic technology developments that will enable them. The plan covers the path from laboratory subsystems demonstrations out to a full-scale flight experiment system for the proposed Mars Communications Relay Orbiter mission.

Capital cost reimbursement to community hospitals under Federal health insurance programs.

PubMed

Kinney, E D; Lefkowitz, B

1982-01-01

Issues in current capital cost reimbursement to community hospitals by Medicare and Medicaid are described, and options for change analyzed. Major reforms in the way the federal government pays for capital costs--in particular substitution of other methods of payment for existing depreciation reimbursement--could have significant impact on the structure of the health care system and on government expenditures. While such reforms are likely to engender substantial political opposition, they may be facilitated by broader changes in the reimbursement system.

Computer memory power control for the Galileo spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Detwiler, R. C.

1983-01-01

The developmental history, major design drives, and final topology of the computer memory power system on the Galileo spacecraft are described. A unique method of generating memory backup power directly from the fault current drawn during a spacecraft power overload or fault condition allows this system to provide continuous memory power. This concept provides a unique solution to the problem of volatile memory loss without the use of a battery of other large energy storage elements usually associated with uninterrupted power supply designs.

Challenges to effective crisis management: using information and communication technologies to coordinate emergency medical services and emergency department teams.

PubMed

Reddy, Madhu C; Paul, Sharoda A; Abraham, Joanna; McNeese, Michael; DeFlitch, Christopher; Yen, John

2009-04-01

The purpose of this study is to identify the major challenges to coordination between emergency department (ED) teams and emergency medical services (EMS) teams. We conducted a series of focus groups involving both ED and EMS team members using a crisis scenario as the basis of the focus group discussion. We also collected organizational workflow data. We identified three major challenges to coordination between ED and EMS teams including ineffectiveness of current information and communication technologies, lack of common ground, and breakdowns in information flow. The three challenges highlight the importance of designing systems from socio-technical perspective. In particular, these inter-team coordination systems must support socio-technical issues such as awareness, context, and workflow between the two teams.

The future of the global food system

PubMed Central

Godfray, H. Charles J.; Crute, Ian R.; Haddad, Lawrence; Lawrence, David; Muir, James F.; Nisbett, Nicholas; Pretty, Jules; Robinson, Sherman; Toulmin, Camilla; Whiteley, Rosalind

2010-01-01

Although food prices in major world markets are at or near a historical low, there is increasing concern about food security—the ability of the world to provide healthy and environmentally sustainable diets for all its peoples. This article is an introduction to a collection of reviews whose authors were asked to explore the major drivers affecting the food system between now and 2050. A first set of papers explores the main factors affecting the demand for food (population growth, changes in consumption patterns, the effects on the food system of urbanization and the importance of understanding income distributions) with a second examining trends in future food supply (crops, livestock, fisheries and aquaculture, and ‘wild food’). A third set explores exogenous factors affecting the food system (climate change, competition for water, energy and land, and how agriculture depends on and provides ecosystem services), while the final set explores cross-cutting themes (food system economics, food wastage and links with health). Two of the clearest conclusions that emerge from the collected papers are that major advances in sustainable food production and availability can be achieved with the concerted application of current technologies (given sufficient political will), and the importance of investing in research sooner rather than later to enable the food system to cope with both known and unknown challenges in the coming decades. PMID:20713383

The Cannabinoid System and Pain

PubMed Central

Woodhams, Stephen G.; Chapman, Victoria; Finn, David P.; Hohmann, Andrea G.; Neugebauer, Volker

2018-01-01

Chronic pain states are highly prevalent and yet poorly controlled by currently available analgesics, representing an enormous clinical, societal, and economic burden. Existing pain medications have significant limitations and adverse effects including tolerance, dependence, gastrointestinal dysfunction, cognitive impairment, and a narrow therapeutic window, making the search for novel analgesics ever more important. In this article, we review the role of an important endogenous pain control system, the endocannabinoid (EC) system, in the sensory, emotional, and cognitive aspects of pain. Herein, we briefly cover the discovery of the EC system and its role in pain processing pathways, before concentrating on three areas of current major interest in EC pain research; 1. Pharmacological enhancement of endocannabinoid activity (via blockade of EC metabolism or allosteric modulation of CB1 receptors); 2. The EC System and stress-induced modulation of pain; and 3. The EC system & medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) dysfunction in pain states. Whilst we focus predominantly on the preclinical data, we also include extensive discussion of recent clinical failures of endocannabinoid-related therapies, the future potential of these approaches, and important directions for future research on the EC system and pain. PMID:28625720

Hybrid neuro-fuzzy approach for automatic vehicle license plate recognition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Hsi-Chieh; Jong, Chung-Shi

1998-03-01

Most currently available vehicle identification systems use techniques such as R.F., microwave, or infrared to help identifying the vehicle. Transponders are usually installed in the vehicle in order to transmit the corresponding information to the sensory system. It is considered expensive to install a transponder in each vehicle and the malfunction of the transponder will result in the failure of the vehicle identification system. In this study, novel hybrid approach is proposed for automatic vehicle license plate recognition. A system prototype is built which can be used independently or cooperating with current vehicle identification system in identifying a vehicle. The prototype consists of four major modules including the module for license plate region identification, the module for character extraction from the license plate, the module for character recognition, and the module for the SimNet neuro-fuzzy system. To test the performance of the proposed system, three hundred and eighty vehicle image samples are taken by a digital camera. The license plate recognition success rate of the prototype is approximately 91% while the character recognition success rate of the prototype is approximately 97%.

The Guide to Better Hospital Computer Decisions

PubMed Central

Dorenfest, Sheldon I.

1981-01-01

A soon-to-be-published major study of hospital computer use entitled “The Guide to Better Hospital Computer Decisions” was conducted by my firm over the past 2½ years. The study required over twenty (20) man years of effort at a cost of over $300,000, and the six (6) volume final report provides more than 1,000 pages of data about how hospitals are and will be using computerized medical and business information systems. It describes the current status and future expectations for computer use in major application areas, such as, but not limited to, finance, admitting, pharmacy, laboratory, data collection and hospital or medical information systems. It also includes profiles of over 100 companies and other types of organizations providing data processing products and services to hospitals. In this paper, we discuss the need for the study, the specific objectives of the study, the methodology and approach taken to complete the study and a few major conclusions.

The NASA Redox Storage System Development project, 1980

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

The technical accomplishments pertaining to the development of Redox systems and related technology are outlined in terms of the task elements: prototype systems development, application analyses, and supporting technology. Prototype systems development provides for a major procurement to develop an industrial capability to take the current NASA Lewis technology and go on to the design, development, and commercialization of iron-chromium Redox storage systems. Application analyses provides for the definition of application concepts and technology requirements, specific definition studies, and the identification of market sectors and their penetration potential. Supporting technology includes both in house and contractual efforts that encompass implementation of technology improvements in membranes, electrodes, reactant processing, and system design. The status of all elements is discussed.

The NASA Redox Storage System Development project, 1980

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

1982-12-01

The technical accomplishments pertaining to the development of Redox systems and related technology are outlined in terms of the task elements: prototype systems development, application analyses, and supporting technology. Prototype systems development provides for a major procurement to develop an industrial capability to take the current NASA Lewis technology and go on to the design, development, and commercialization of iron-chromium Redox storage systems. Application analyses provides for the definition of application concepts and technology requirements, specific definition studies, and the identification of market sectors and their penetration potential. Supporting technology includes both in house and contractual efforts that encompass implementation of technology improvements in membranes, electrodes, reactant processing, and system design. The status of all elements is discussed.

Inflammation in Chronic Wounds

PubMed Central

Zhao, Ruilong; Liang, Helena; Clarke, Elizabeth; Jackson, Christopher; Xue, Meilang

2016-01-01

Non-healing chronic wounds present a major biological, psychological, social, and financial burden on both individual patients and the broader health system. Pathologically extensive inflammation plays a major role in the disruption of the normal healing cascade. The causes of chronic wounds (venous, arterial, pressure, and diabetic ulcers) can be examined through a juxtaposition of normal healing and the rogue inflammatory response created by the common components within chronic wounds (ageing, hypoxia, ischaemia-reperfusion injury, and bacterial colonisation). Wound bed care through debridement, dressings, and antibiotics currently form the basic mode of treatment. Despite recent setbacks, pharmaceutical adjuncts form an interesting area of research. PMID:27973441

Inflammation in Chronic Wounds.

PubMed

Zhao, Ruilong; Liang, Helena; Clarke, Elizabeth; Jackson, Christopher; Xue, Meilang

2016-12-11

Non-healing chronic wounds present a major biological, psychological, social, and financial burden on both individual patients and the broader health system. Pathologically extensive inflammation plays a major role in the disruption of the normal healing cascade. The causes of chronic wounds (venous, arterial, pressure, and diabetic ulcers) can be examined through a juxtaposition of normal healing and the rogue inflammatory response created by the common components within chronic wounds (ageing, hypoxia, ischaemia-reperfusion injury, and bacterial colonisation). Wound bed care through debridement, dressings, and antibiotics currently form the basic mode of treatment. Despite recent setbacks, pharmaceutical adjuncts form an interesting area of research.

Global Warming Will Bring New Fungal Diseases for Mammals

PubMed Central

Garcia-Solache, Monica A.; Casadevall, Arturo

2010-01-01

ABSTRACT Fungi are major pathogens of plants, other fungi, rotifers, insects, and amphibians, but relatively few cause disease in mammals. Fungi became important human pathogens only in the late 20th century, primarily in hosts with impaired immunity as a consequence of medical interventions or HIV infection. The relatively high resistance of mammals has been attributed to a combination of a complex immune system and endothermy. Mammals maintain high body temperatures relative to environmental temperatures, creating a thermally restrictive ambient for the majority of fungi. According to this view, protection given by endothermy requires a temperature gradient between those of mammals and the environment. We hypothesize that global warming will increase the prevalence of fungal diseases in mammals by two mechanisms: (i) increasing the geographic range of currently pathogenic species and (ii) selecting for adaptive thermotolerance for species with significant pathogenic potential but currently not pathogenic by virtue of being restricted by mammalian temperatures. PMID:20689745

Status, Alert System, and Prediction of Cyanobacterial Bloom in South Korea

PubMed Central

Srivastava, Ankita; Ahn, Chi-Yong; Asthana, Ravi Kumar; Lee, Hyung-Gwan; Oh, Hee-Mock

2015-01-01

Bloom-forming freshwater cyanobacterial genera pose a major ecological problem due to their ability to produce toxins and other bioactive compounds, which can have important implications in illnesses of humans and livestock. Cyanobacteria such as Microcystis, Anabaena, Oscillatoria, Phormidium, and Aphanizomenon species producing microcystins and anatoxin-a have been predominantly documented from most South Korean lakes and reservoirs. With the increase in frequency of such blooms, various monitoring approaches, treatment processes, and prediction models have been developed in due course. In this paper we review the field studies and current knowledge on toxin producing cyanobacterial species and ecological variables that regulate toxin production and bloom formation in major rivers (Han, Geum, Nakdong, and Yeongsan) and reservoirs in South Korea. In addition, development of new, fast, and high-throughput techniques for effective monitoring is also discussed with cyanobacterial bloom advisory practices, current management strategies, and their implications in South Korean freshwater bodies. PMID:25705675

In search of a treatment for HIV--current therapies and the role of non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs).

PubMed

Reynolds, Chevonne; de Koning, Charles B; Pelly, Stephen C; van Otterlo, Willem A L; Bode, Moira L

2012-07-07

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) causes AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), a disease in which the immune system progressively deteriorates, making sufferers vulnerable to all manner of opportunistic infections. Currently, world-wide there are estimated to be 34 million people living with HIV, with the vast majority of these living in sub-Saharan Africa. Therefore, an important research focus is development of new drugs that can be used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. This review gives an overview of the disease and addresses the drugs currently used for treatment, with specific emphasis on new developments within the class of allosteric non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs).

Electric chiller handbook. Final report

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

NONE

1998-02-01

Electric chillers have dominated the market for large commercial cooling systems due to their history of reliable, economical operation. The phaseout of CFCs and deregulation of the utility industry are two factors that significantly impact the chiller market. The CFC phaseout is resulting in the upgrading or replacement of thousands of electric chillers nationwide. In a deregulated environment, utilities are finding increasing need to provide services that can win and retain new customers. Utility representatives need current information on applying and selecting cost-effective chiller systems. The objective of this report was to develop a comprehensive handbook that helps utility technicalmore » and marketing staff, their customers, and design professionals evaluate and select the best options for chilled-water systems in commercial buildings. Investigators used a variety of industry data sources to develop market-share information for electric and gas chiller systems and to determine applications according to building age, type, and region. Discussions with chiller manufacturers provided information on product availability, performance, and ownership cost. Using EPRI`s COMTECH software, investigators performed comprehensive cost analyses for placement of large and small chillers in three representative cities. Case studies of actual installations support these analyses. Electric Chiller Handbook provides a single source of current information on all major issues associated with chiller selection and application. Key issues include chiller availability and markets, rated performance, future viability of various refrigerant options, the cost-effectiveness of alternative chillers, and chilled-water system optimization. The Handbook also describes available hardware, outlines the features and costs of gas-fired competitive systems, and provides methods and comparisons of life-cycle costing of various chiller system options. Analyses of chiller features and economics show that electric chillers are preferable to gas chillers in the large majority of applications, consistent with current market trends. Furthermore, today`s chillers offer a wide range of efficiencies and refrigerant options to serve cooling system needs for the 20-year lifetime of the chiller. Finally, new higher-efficiency models of electric chillers offer very attractive paybacks.« less

Treatments for Parkinson disease--past achievements and current clinical needs.

PubMed

Poewe, Werner

2009-02-17

Although idiopathic Parkinson disease (PD) remains the only neurodegenerative disorder for which there are highly effective symptomatic therapies, there are still major unmet needs regarding its long-term management. Although levodopa continues as the gold standard for efficacy, its chronic use is associated with potentially disabling motor complications. Current evidence suggests that these are related to mode of administration, whereby multiple oral doses of levodopa generate pulsatile stimulation of striatal dopamine receptors. Current dopamine agonists, while producing more constant plasma levels, fail to match levodopa's efficacy. Strategies to treat levodopa-related motor complications are only partially effective, rarely abolishing motor fluctuations or dyskinesias. Best results are currently achieved with invasive strategies via subcutaneous (s.c.) or intraduodenal delivery of apomorphine or levodopa, or deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus. Another area of major unmet medical need is related to nondopaminergic and nonmotor symptoms of PD. Targeting transmitter systems beyond the dopamine system is an interesting approach, both for the motor and nonmotor problems of PD. So far, clinical trial evidence regarding 5-HT agonists, glutamate antagonists, adenosine A(2) antagonists and alpha-adrenergic receptor antagonists, has been inconsistent, but trials with cholinesterase inhibitors and atypical antipsychotics to treat dementia and psychosis, have been successful. However, the ultimate goal of PD medical management is modifying disease progression, thereby delaying the evolution of motor and nonmotor complications of advanced disease. As understanding of preclinical markers for PD develops, there is new hope for neuropreventive strategies to target "at risk" populations before clinical onset of disease.

Tactical lighting in special operations medicine: survey of current preferences.

PubMed

Calvano, Christopher J; Enzenauer, Robert W; Eisnor, Derek L; Laporta, Anthony J

2013-01-01

Success in Special Operations Forces medicine (SOFMED) is dependent on maximizing visual capability without compromising the provider or casualty position when under fire. There is no single ideal light source suitable for varied SOFMED environments. We present the results of an online survey of Special Operations Medical Operators in an attempt to determine strengths and weaknesses of current systems. There was no consensus ideal hue for tactical illumination. Most Operators own three or more lights, and most lights were not night vision compatible. Most importantly, nearly 25% of respondents reported that lighting issues contributed to a poor casualty outcome; conversely, a majority (50 of 74) stated their system helped prevent a poor outcome. Based on the results of this initial survey, we can affirm that the design and choice of lighting is critical to SOFMED success. We are conducting ongoing studies to further define ideal systems for tactical applications including field, aviation, and marine settings. 2013.

An object-oriented programming system for the integration of internet-based bioinformatics resources.

PubMed

Beveridge, Allan

2006-01-01

The Internet consists of a vast inhomogeneous reservoir of data. Developing software that can integrate a wide variety of different data sources is a major challenge that must be addressed for the realisation of the full potential of the Internet as a scientific research tool. This article presents a semi-automated object-oriented programming system for integrating web-based resources. We demonstrate that the current Internet standards (HTML, CGI [common gateway interface], Java, etc.) can be exploited to develop a data retrieval system that scans existing web interfaces and then uses a set of rules to generate new Java code that can automatically retrieve data from the Web. The validity of the software has been demonstrated by testing it on several biological databases. We also examine the current limitations of the Internet and discuss the need for the development of universal standards for web-based data.

Analysis of NASA communications (Nascom) II network protocols and performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Omidyar, Guy C.; Butler, Thomas E.

1991-01-01

The NASA Communications (Nascom) Division of the Mission Operations and Data Systems Directorate is to undertake a major initiative to develop the Nascom II (NII) network to achieve its long-range service objectives for operational data transport to support the Space Station Freedom Program, the Earth Observing System, and other projects. NII is the Nascom ground communications network being developed to accommodate the operational traffic of the mid-1990s and beyond. The authors describe various baseline protocol architectures based on current and evolving technologies. They address the internetworking issues suggested for reliable transfer of data over heterogeneous segments. They also describe the NII architecture, topology, system components, and services. A comparative evaluation of the current and evolving technologies was made, and suggestions for further study are described. It is shown that the direction of the NII configuration and the subsystem component design will clearly depend on the advances made in the area of broadband integrated services.

Methods for Estimating Environmental Effects and Constraints on NexGen: High Density Case Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Augustine, S.; Ermatinger, C.; Graham, M.; Thompson, T.

2010-01-01

This document provides a summary of the current methods developed by Metron Aviation for the estimate of environmental effects and constraints on the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). This body of work incorporates many of the key elements necessary to achieve such an estimate. Each section contains the background and motivation for the technical elements of the work, a description of the methods used, and possible next steps. The current methods described in this document were selected in an attempt to provide a good balance between accuracy and fairly rapid turn around times to best advance Joint Planning and Development Office (JPDO) System Modeling and Analysis Division (SMAD) objectives while also supporting the needs of the JPDO Environmental Working Group (EWG). In particular this document describes methods applied to support the High Density (HD) Case Study performed during the spring of 2008. A reference day (in 2006) is modeled to describe current system capabilities while the future demand is applied to multiple alternatives to analyze system performance. The major variables in the alternatives are operational/procedural capabilities for airport, terminal, and en route airspace along with projected improvements to airframe, engine and navigational equipment.

Linkages between the Urban Environment and Earth's Climate System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shepherd, J. Marshall; Jin, Menglin

2003-01-01

Urbanization is one of the extreme cases of land use change. Although currently only 1.2% of the land is considered urban, the spatial coverage and density of cities are expected to rapidly increase in the near future. It is estimated that by the year 2025 60% of the world s population will live in cities (UNFP, 1999). Though urban areas are local in scale, human activity in urban environments has impacts at local, to global scale by changing atmospheric composition; impacting components of the water cycle; and modifying the carbon cycle 2nd ecosystems. For example, urban dwellers are undoubtedly familiar with "high" ozone pollution days, flash flooding in city streets, or heat stress on summer days. However, our understanding of urbanization on the total Earth-climate system is incomplete. Better understanding of how the Earth s weather, oceans, and land work together and the influence of the urban environment on this climate system is critical. This paper highlights some of the major and current issues involving interactions between urban environments and the Earth's climate system. It also captures some of the most current thinking and findings of the authors and key experts in the field.

Designing display primaries with currently available light sources for UHDTV wide-gamut system colorimetry.

PubMed

Masaoka, Kenichiro; Nishida, Yukihiro; Sugawara, Masayuki

2014-08-11

The wide-gamut system colorimetry has been standardized for ultra-high definition television (UHDTV). The chromaticities of the primaries are designed to lie on the spectral locus to cover major standard system colorimetries and real object colors. Although monochromatic light sources are required for a display to perfectly fulfill the system colorimetry, highly saturated emission colors using recent quantum dot technology may effectively achieve the wide gamut. This paper presents simulation results on the chromaticities of highly saturated non-monochromatic light sources and gamut coverage of real object colors to be considered in designing wide-gamut displays with color filters for the UHDTV.

Promising personalized therapeutic options for diffuse large B-cell Lymphoma Subtypes with oncogene addictions.

PubMed

Steinhardt, James J; Gartenhaus, Ronald B

2012-09-01

Currently, two major classification systems segregate diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) into subtypes based on gene expression profiles and provide great insights about the oncogenic mechanisms that may be crucial for lymphomagenesis as well as prognostic information regarding response to current therapies. However, these current classification systems primarily look at expression and not dependency and are thus limited to inductive or probabilistic reasoning when evaluating alternative therapeutic options. The development of a deductive classification system that identifies subtypes in which all patients with a given phenotype require the same oncogenic drivers, and would therefore have a similar response to a rational therapy targeting the essential drivers, would significantly advance the treatment of DLBCL. This review highlights the putative drivers identified as well as the work done to identify potentially dependent populations. These studies integrated genomic analysis and functional screens to provide a rationale for targeted therapies within defined populations. Personalizing treatments by identifying patients with oncogenic dependencies via genotyping and specifically targeting the responsible drivers may constitute a novel approach for the treatment of DLBCL. ©2012 AACR.

Classification of ligand molecules in PDB with graph match-based structural superposition.

PubMed

Shionyu-Mitsuyama, Clara; Hijikata, Atsushi; Tsuji, Toshiyuki; Shirai, Tsuyoshi

2016-12-01

The fast heuristic graph match algorithm for small molecules, COMPLIG, was improved by adding a structural superposition process to verify the atom-atom matching. The modified method was used to classify the small molecule ligands in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) by their three-dimensional structures, and 16,660 types of ligands in the PDB were classified into 7561 clusters. In contrast, a classification by a previous method (without structure superposition) generated 3371 clusters from the same ligand set. The characteristic feature in the current classification system is the increased number of singleton clusters, which contained only one ligand molecule in a cluster. Inspections of the singletons in the current classification system but not in the previous one implied that the major factors for the isolation were differences in chirality, cyclic conformations, separation of substructures, and bond length. Comparisons between current and previous classification systems revealed that the superposition-based classification was effective in clustering functionally related ligands, such as drugs targeted to specific biological processes, owing to the strictness of the atom-atom matching.

Air core poloidal magnetic field system for a toroidal plasma producing device

DOEpatents

Marcus, Frederick B.

1978-01-01

A poloidal magnetics system for a plasma producing device of toroidal configuration is provided that reduces both the total volt-seconds requirement and the magnitude of the field change at the toroidal field coils. The system utilizes an air core transformer wound between the toroidal field (TF) coils and the major axis outside the TF coils. Electric current in the primary windings of this transformer is distributed and the magnetic flux returned by air core windings wrapped outside the toroidal field coils. A shield winding that is closely coupled to the plasma carries a current equal and opposite to the plasma current. This winding provides the shielding function and in addition serves in a fashion similar to a driven conducting shell to provide the equilibrium vertical field for the plasma. The shield winding is in series with a power supply and a decoupling coil located outside the TF coil at the primary winding locations. The present invention requires much less energy than the usual air core transformer and is capable of substantially shielding the toroidal field coils from poloidal field flux.

Extravehicular activity space suit interoperability.

PubMed

Skoog, A I; McBarron JW 2nd; Severin, G I

1995-10-01

The European Agency (ESA) and the Russian Space Agency (RKA) are jointly developing a new space suit system for improved extravehicular activity (EVA) capabilities in support of the MIR Space Station Programme, the EVA Suit 2000. Recent national policy agreements between the U.S. and Russia on planned cooperations in manned space also include joint extravehicular activity (EVA). With an increased number of space suit systems and a higher operational frequency towards the end of this century an improved interoperability for both routine and emergency operations is of eminent importance. It is thus timely to report the current status of ongoing work on international EVA interoperability being conducted by the Committee on EVA Protocols and Operations of the International Academy of Astronauts initiated in 1991. This paper summarises the current EVA interoperability issues to be harmonised and presents quantified vehicle interface requirements for the current U.S. Shuttle EMU and Russian MIR Orlan DMA and the new European/Russian EVA Suit 2000 extravehicular systems. Major critical/incompatible interfaces for suits/mother-craft of different combinations are discussed, and recommendations for standardisations given.

FLTSATCOM interoperability applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woolford, Lynn

A mobile Fleet Satellite Communications (FLTSATCOM) system called the Mobile Operational Control Center (MOCC) was developed which has demonstrated the ability to be interoperable with many of the current FLTSATCOM command and control channels. This low-cost system is secure in all its communications, is lightweight, and provides a gateway for other communications formats. The major elements of this system are made up of a personal computer, a protocol microprocessor, and off-the-shelf mobile communication components. It is concluded that with both FLTSATCOM channel protocol and data format interoperability, the MOCC has the ability provide vital information in or near real time, which significantly improves mission effectiveness.

Space Transportation Propulsion Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liou, Meng-Sing; Stewart, Mark E.; Suresh, Ambady; Owen, A. Karl

2001-01-01

This report outlines the Space Transportation Propulsion Systems for the NPSS (Numerical Propulsion System Simulation) program. Topics include: 1) a review of Engine/Inlet Coupling Work; 2) Background/Organization of Space Transportation Initiative; 3) Synergy between High Performance Computing and Communications Program (HPCCP) and Advanced Space Transportation Program (ASTP); 4) Status of Space Transportation Effort, including planned deliverables for FY01-FY06, FY00 accomplishments (HPCCP Funded) and FY01 Major Milestones (HPCCP and ASTP); and 5) a review current technical efforts, including a review of the Rocket-Based Combined-Cycle (RBCC), Scope of Work, RBCC Concept Aerodynamic Analysis and RBCC Concept Multidisciplinary Analysis.

A Gimbal sizing analysis for an IPACS rotating assembly

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burke, P. R.; Coronato, P. A.

1985-01-01

All major components of an integrated power/attitude control system (IPACS) assembly were analyzed for testing, launch, and operational stresses. The conceptual design for the outer gimbal and mounting ring structures were developed and analyzed along with preliminary designs of the pivot and torquer assemblies. Results from the system response analysis and the thermal analysis are also presented. Gimballing of this rotating assembly should present few difficulties as the maximum gimballing rate is quite low. However, the inner gimbal assembly in its current configuration must be modified to develop the system from a laboratory concept to a realistic flight hardware status.

Hospital Based Customization of a Medical Information System

PubMed Central

Rath, Marilyn A.; Ferguson, Julie C.

1983-01-01

A Medical Information System must be current if it is to be a viable adjunct to patient care within a hospital setting. Hospital-based customization provides a means of achieving this timeliness with maximum user satisfaction. It, however, requires a major commitment in personnel time as well as additional software and training expenses. The enhanced control of system modifications and overall flexibility in planning the change process result in enthusiastic support of this approach by many hospitals. The key factors for success include careful selection of local personnel with adequate vendor support, extensive QA control, thorough auditing/validation and direct user involvement.

Studies in Ambulatory Care Quality Assessment in the Indian Health Service. Volume II: Appraisal of System Performance.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nutting, Paul A.; And Others

Six Indian Health Service (IHS) units, chosen in a non-random manner, were evaluated via a quality assessment methodology currently under development by the IHS Office of Research and Development. A set of seven health problems (tracers) was selected to represent major health problems, and clinical algorithms (process maps) were constructed for…

Thematic mapper flight model preshipment review data package. Volume 3, part C: System data

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1982-01-01

Failure reports for flight model-1 of the thematic mapper are summarized showing the symptom and cause of failure as well as the corrective action taken. Each report is keyed to the major subsystem against which the failure occurred. Requests for deviation/waiver are listed by number, description, and current status. Copies of engineering proposals are included.

Financial Report of the County Colleges of the State of New Jersey for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 1978.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

New Jersey State Dept. of Higher Education, Trenton.

Financial information and an analytic narrative concerning the New Jersey community college system are presented for the following major areas: (1) enrollments and educational cost per full-time equivalent student; (2) sources of current revenue; (3) educational and general expenditures; and (4) fixed assets and capital data. The New Jersey county…

Summary of research in applied mathematics, numerical analysis, and computer sciences

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1986-01-01

The major categories of current ICASE research programs addressed include: numerical methods, with particular emphasis on the development and analysis of basic numerical algorithms; control and parameter identification problems, with emphasis on effective numerical methods; computational problems in engineering and physical sciences, particularly fluid dynamics, acoustics, and structural analysis; and computer systems and software, especially vector and parallel computers.

107 Range Commanders Council Meteorology Group Meeting (RCC-MG): NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Range Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roberts, Barry C.

2016-01-01

The following is a summary of the major meteorological/atmospheric projects and research that have been or currently are being accomplished at Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). Listed below are highlights of work done during the past 6 months in the Engineering Directorate (ED) and in the Science and Mission Systems Office (ZP).

Trophies, Treasure, and Turmoil: College Athletics at a Tipping Point

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weaver, Karen

2015-01-01

College athletics fans would be hard pressed to find a year like 2014 in college-sports history. In this year alone, the US judicial and arbitration systems have had to address four major legal actions coming from current and former student athletes. All speak to a core issue: that colleges have not done enough to protect or provide for their…

Improving Scientific Inquiry for Social Work in South Korea: The Center for Social Welfare Research at Yonsei University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Choi, Jae-Sung; Choi, Soochan; Kim, Yujin

2009-01-01

This article examines current social issues and welfare needs in South Korea and discusses societal efforts to respond to these needs through social welfare systems nationwide. It also reviews how social work scholars, major contributors to the creation of a Korean welfare state, have contributed to the conditions of social work practice by…

Estimation of real-time N load in surface water using dynamic data driven application system

Treesearch

Y. Ouyang; S.M. Luo; L.H. Cui; Q. Wang; J.E. Zhang

2011-01-01

Agricultural, industrial, and urban activities are the major sources for eutrophication of surface water ecosystems. Currently, determination of nutrients in surface water is primarily accomplished by manually collecting samples for laboratory analysis, which requires at least 24 h. In other words, little to no effort has been devoted to monitoring real-time variations...

Does stand density affect mating system and population genetic structure in coast live oak?

Treesearch

Kathryn Beals; Richard S. Dodd

2006-01-01

Coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) is a major species at risk in the current Phytophthora ramorum epidemic in California’s oak woodlands. To search effectively for resistant genotypes, it is imperative to have an understanding of the existing host population genetic structure in these forests, and how its reproductive capacity may...

Digital controls for gas turbine engines

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

Robinson, K.

1987-01-01

This paper begins by first describing the simplistic requirements of a gas turbine engine; how these requirements are best satisfied, frequently with the aid of electronic control systems; what the trade-off between integrity and reliability means; and finally, but forming a major section, this paper describes in qualitative detail a few of the current programmes for Full Authority Digital Engine Controls (FADEC).

Environmental quality

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1975-01-01

The potential use of space systems to help determine the current state of air, water, and land environments was examined; the effects of man's activities on these parameters were also examined. Data are limited to pollutants introduced into the major environmental media, environmental changes manifested by such pollutants, and the effectiveness of abatement and control methods. Data also cover land quality as related to land use and public health.

Model-Based, Noninvasive Monitoring of Intracranial Pressure

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-07-01

patients. A physiologically based model relates ICP to simultaneously measured waveforms of arterial blood pressure ( ABP ), obtained via radial... ABP and CBFV are currently measured as the clinical standard of care. The project’s major accomplishments include: assembling a suitable system for...synchronized arterial blood pressure ( ABP ) and cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) waveform measurements that can be obtained quite routinely. Our processing

Current Status of Cable Television in the Top-100 Broadcast Markets.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kaplan, Stuart J.

1978-01-01

A study of the status of cable television in the major broadcast markets suggests that the cable industry has made very little progress in penetrating the top-100 markets, that the rate of development of new cable systems in the top-100 markets has slowed in recent years, and that the primary function of cable television is to retransmit…

Implementing the work disability prevention paradigm among therapists in Hong Kong: facilitators and barriers.

PubMed

Szeto, Grace P Y; Cheng, Andy S K; Lee, Edwin W C; Schonstein, Eva; Gross, Douglas P

2011-03-01

This is a discussion paper to examine the issues surrounding management of work-related injuries by physiotherapists and occupational therapists in Hong Kong. Therapists working in public hospitals are faced with managing injured workers with limited resources and this frequently results in suboptimal outcomes. In this paper, five experienced therapists critically reviewed the current practices in the physiotherapy and occupational therapy professions in Hong Kong, with regard to managing patients with work injuries. In many hospitals, therapists still practice with a disease-based model focusing on symptom relief and restoration of general physical function. We collated information about current programs initiated by physiotherapists and occupational therapists to provide more strategic intervention strategies for early screening of high-risk patients and adaptive biopsychosocial interventions targeting return-to-work outcomes. Clinical and system-level barriers and facilitators of a major paradigm shift towards work disability prevention are discussed. Physiotherapists and occupational therapists need to develop more strategic collaborations and actively voice out the need for major systematic changes within the local healthcare system, in order to provide a more effective management approach in line with the concept of Work Disability Prevention.

Creation and utilization of a World Wide Web based space radiation effects code: SIREST

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singleterry, R. C. Jr; Wilson, J. W.; Shinn, J. L.; Tripathi, R. K.; Thibeault, S. A.; Noor, A. K.; Cucinotta, F. A.; Badavi, F. F.; Chang, C. K.; Qualls, G. D.;

Development of polyisocyanurate pour foam formulation for space shuttle external tank thermal protection system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Harvey, James A.; Butler, John M.; Chartoff, Richard P.

1988-01-01

Four commercially available polyisocyanurate polyurethane spray-foam insulation formulations are used to coat the external tank of the space shuttle. There are several problems associated with these formulations. For example, some do not perform well as pourable closeout/repair systems. Some do not perform well at cryogenic temperatures (poor adhesion to aluminum at liquid nitrogen temperatures). Their thermal stability at elevated temperatures is not adequate. A major defect in all the systems is the lack of detailed chemical information. The formulations are simply supplied to NASA and Martin Marietta, the primary contractor, as components; Part A (isocyanate) and Part B (poly(s) and additives). Because of the lack of chemical information the performance behavior data for the current system, NASA sought the development of a non-proprietary room temperature curable foam insulation. Requirements for the developed system were that it should exhibit equal or better thermal stability both at elevated and cryogenic temperatures with better adhesion to aluminum as compared to the current system. Several formulations were developed that met these requirements, i.e., thermal stability, good pourability, and good bonding to aluminum.

The Satisfaction and Use of Research Ethics Board Information Systems in Canada.

PubMed

Detlor, Brian; Wilson, Michael J

2015-10-01

This article reports findings from a national survey of Research Ethics Board (REB) personnel across Canada on the satisfaction and use of information systems that support the review and administration of research ethics protocols. Findings indicate that though a wide variety of REB systems are utilized, the majority fall short of desired characteristics. Despite these shortcomings, most respondents are satisfied with their current REB systems. Satisfaction is dependent on the volume of protocols processed in relation to the robustness of the system. Boards with higher volumes are more satisfied with full-fledged systems; however, the satisfaction of REBs with lower volumes is not affected by the robustness of the REB system used. Recommendations are provided. © The Author(s) 2015.

The opinion of Turkish cardiologists on current malpractice system and an alternative patient compensation system proposal: PCS study group.

PubMed

Olcay, Ayhan; Emren, Sadık Volkan; Babür Güler, Gamze; Güler, Ekrem; Ertunç, Vedat; Berilgen, Rida; Aslan, Abdullah; Şimşek, Ersin Çağrı; Gölcük, Şükriye Ebru; Yalın, Kıvanç

2017-10-01

Cardiologists participate in the diagnosis and interventional treatment of numerous high-risk patients. The goal of this study was to investigate how the current malpractice system in Turkey influences cardiologists' diagnostic and interventional behavior and to obtain their opinions about an alternative patient compensation system. The present cross-sectional study assessed the practice of defensive medicine among cardiologists who are actively working in various types of workplace within the Turkish healthcare system. A 24-item questionnaire was distributed to cardiology residents, specialists, and academics in Turkey in print format, by electronic mail, or via cell phone message. A total of 253 cardiologists responded to the survey. Among them, 29 (11.6%) had been sued for malpractice claims in the past. Of the cardiologists who had been sued, 2 (6.9%) had been ordered to pay financial compensation, and 1 (3.4%) was given a sentence of imprisonment due to negligence. In all, 132 (52.8%) of the surveyed cardiologists reported that they had changed their practices due to fear of litigation, and 232 (92.8%) reported that they would prefer the new proposed patient compensation system to the current malpractice system. Among the cardiologists surveyed, 78.8% indicated that malpractice fear had affected their decision-making with regard to requesting computed tomography angiography or thallium scintigraphy, 71.6% for coronary angiography, 20% for stent implantation, and 83.2% for avoiding treating high-risk patients. The results of this survey demonstrated that cardiologists may request unnecessary tests and perform unneeded interventions due to the fear of malpractice litigation fear. Many also avoid high-risk patients and interventions. The majority indicated that they would prefer the proposed alternative patient compensation system to the current malpractice system.

Catalog of selected heavy duty transport energy management models

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Colello, R. G.; Boghani, A. B.; Gardella, N. C.; Gott, P. G.; Lee, W. D.; Pollak, E. C.; Teagan, W. P.; Thomas, R. G.; Snyder, C. M.; Wilson, R. P., Jr.

1983-01-01

A catalog of energy management models for heavy duty transport systems powered by diesel engines is presented. The catalog results from a literature survey, supplemented by telephone interviews and mailed questionnaires to discover the major computer models currently used in the transportation industry in the following categories: heavy duty transport systems, which consist of highway (vehicle simulation), marine (ship simulation), rail (locomotive simulation), and pipeline (pumping station simulation); and heavy duty diesel engines, which involve models that match the intake/exhaust system to the engine, fuel efficiency, emissions, combustion chamber shape, fuel injection system, heat transfer, intake/exhaust system, operating performance, and waste heat utilization devices, i.e., turbocharger, bottoming cycle.

Decision-support for Digester-Algae IntegRation for Improved Environmental and Economic Sustainability (DAIRIEES)

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

Guillen, Donna Post

Manure management is a major concern for dairy farms, as manure emits significant quantities of greenhouse gases and contains concentrated nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus. Current manure management practices consist of spreading minimally processed manure on agricultural fields, which releases greenhouse gases directly to the atmosphere and often leads to nutrient overloading on fields and runoff to surface and groundwater. A novel manure treatment system has been proposed that mitigates many of the current environmental concerns and creates value added products from the manure including bioplastics, electricity, fertilizer, and animal bedding. DAIRIEES, an Excel based model, allows users to entermore » characteristics about a dairy farm’s manure, manure management plan, and regional market. Based on these inputs, the five main processes of the integrated system—fermenter, anaerobic digester, bioplastics reactor, algae cultivation, and hydrothermal liquefaction or fast pyrolysis system—are analyzed in detail using data from laboratory scale experiments supplemented by information on full-scale processes from the literature. The model can be used to estimate performance of the integrated manure treatment system, including: 1) carbon and nutrient sequestration, 2) quantities and market value of end products, and 3) the system’s overall economic viability. The DAIRIEES model outlines the major economic considerations for construction and operation of a full scale integrated treatment system. This information can be used to inform a more detailed pro forma analysis of the deployed system.« less

Large-scale evolution of the central-east Greenland margin: New insights to the North Atlantic glaciation history

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pérez, Lara F.; Nielsen, Tove; Knutz, Paul C.; Kuijpers, Antoon; Damm, Volkmar

2018-04-01

The continental shelf of central-east Greenland is shaped by several glacially carved transverse troughs that form the oceanward extension of the major fjord systems. The evolution of these troughs through time, and their relation with the large-scale glaciation of the Northern Hemisphere, is poorly understood. In this study seismostratigraphic analyses have been carried out to determine the morphological and structural development of this important sector of the East Greenland glaciated margin. The age of major stratigraphic discontinuities has been constrained by a direct tie to ODP site 987 drilled in the Greenland Sea basin plain off Scoresby Sund fan system. The areal distribution and internal facies of the identified seismic units reveal the large-scale depositional pattern formed by ice-streams draining a major part of the central-east Greenland ice sheet. Initial sedimentation along the margin was, however, mainly controlled by tectonic processes related to the margin construction, continental uplift, and fluvial processes. From late Miocene to present, progradational and erosional patterns point to repeated glacial advances across the shelf. The evolution of depo-centres suggests that ice sheet advances over the continental shelf have occurred since late Miocene, about 2 Myr earlier than previously assumed. This cross-shelf glaciation is more pronounced during late Miocene and early Pliocene along Blosseville Kyst and around the Pliocene/Pleistocene boundary off Scoresby Sund; indicating a northward migration of the glacial advance. The two main periods of glaciation were separated by a major retreat of the ice sheet to an inland position during middle Pliocene. Mounded-wavy deposits interpreted as current-related deposits suggest the presence of changing along-slope current dynamics in concert with the development of the modern North Atlantic oceanographic pattern.

NASA Advanced Life Support Technology Testing and Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wheeler, Raymond M.

2012-01-01

Prior to 2010, NASA's advanced life support research and development was carried out primarily under the Exploration Life Support Project of NASA's Exploration Systems Mission Directorate. In 2011, the Exploration Life Support Project was merged with other projects covering Fire Prevention/Suppression, Radiation Protection, Advanced Environmental Monitoring and Control, and Thermal Control Systems. This consolidated project was called Life Support and Habitation Systems, which was managed under the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate. In 2012, NASA re-organized major directorates within the agency, which eliminated the Exploration Systems Mission Directorate and created the Office of the Chief Technologist (OCT). Life support research and development is currently conducted within the Office of the Chief Technologist, under the Next Generation Life Support Project, and within the Human Exploration Operation Missions Directorate under several Advanced Exploration System projects. These Advanced Exploration Systems projects include various themes of life support technology testing, including atmospheric management, water management, logistics and waste management, and habitation systems. Food crop testing is currently conducted as part of the Deep Space Habitation (DSH) project within the Advanced Exploration Systems Program. This testing is focused on growing salad crops that could supplement the crew's diet during near term missions.

PREFACE: Focus section on superconducting power systems Focus section on superconducting power systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cardwell, D. A.; Amemiya, N.; Fair, R.

2012-01-01

This focus section of Superconductor Science and Technology looks at the properties, technology and applications of (RE)BCO and MgB2 based superconductors for power engineering systems. Both bulk and conductor forms of material are addressed, including elements of materials fabrication and processing, and the measurement of their applied properties for various levels of system application. The areas of research include ac losses in type II materials in power devices, cables and coated conductors, the development of high current dc cables and the application of superconductors in levitation devices, motors and fault current limiters. This focus section presents a broad cross-section of contemporary issues, that represent state-of-the-art for power applications of superconductors, and highlights the areas that require further development if commercial applications of these rapidly emerging materials are to be realised. It contains papers from some of the major groups in the field, including contributions from Europe, the USA and Japan, and describes devices that are relatively close to market.

Challenges of Future High-End Computing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bailey, David; Kutler, Paul (Technical Monitor)

1998-01-01

The next major milestone in high performance computing is a sustained rate of one Pflop/s (also written one petaflops, or 10(circumflex)15 floating-point operations per second). In addition to prodigiously high computational performance, such systems must of necessity feature very large main memories, as well as comparably high I/O bandwidth and huge mass storage facilities. The current consensus of scientists who have studied these issues is that "affordable" petaflops systems may be feasible by the year 2010, assuming that certain key technologies continue to progress at current rates. One important question is whether applications can be structured to perform efficiently on such systems, which are expected to incorporate many thousands of processors and deeply hierarchical memory systems. To answer these questions, advanced performance modeling techniques, including simulation of future architectures and applications, may be required. It may also be necessary to formulate "latency tolerant algorithms" and other completely new algorithmic approaches for certain applications. This talk will give an overview of these challenges.

Connections Between Theory and Experiment for Gold and Silver Nanoclusters.

PubMed

Weerawardene, K L Dimuthu M; Häkkinen, Hannu; Aikens, Christine M

2018-04-20

Ligand-stabilized gold and silver nanoparticles are of tremendous current interest in sensing, catalysis, and energy applications. Experimental and theoretical studies have closely interacted to elucidate properties such as the geometric and electronic structures of these fascinating systems. In this review, the interplay between theory and experiment is described; areas such as optical absorption and doping, where the theory-experiment connections are well established, are discussed in detail; and the current status of these connections in newer fields of study, such as luminescence, transient absorption, and the effects of solvent and the surrounding environment, are highlighted. Close communication between theory and experiment has been extremely valuable for developing an understanding of these nanocluster systems in the past decade and will undoubtedly continue to play a major role in future years.

Connections Between Theory and Experiment for Gold and Silver Nanoclusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weerawardene, K. L. Dimuthu M.; Häkkinen, Hannu; Aikens, Christine M.

2018-04-01

Ligand-stabilized gold and silver nanoparticles are of tremendous current interest in sensing, catalysis, and energy applications. Experimental and theoretical studies have closely interacted to elucidate properties such as the geometric and electronic structures of these fascinating systems. In this review, the interplay between theory and experiment is described; areas such as optical absorption and doping, where the theory-experiment connections are well established, are discussed in detail; and the current status of these connections in newer fields of study, such as luminescence, transient absorption, and the effects of solvent and the surrounding environment, are highlighted. Close communication between theory and experiment has been extremely valuable for developing an understanding of these nanocluster systems in the past decade and will undoubtedly continue to play a major role in future years.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the central nervous system

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

Not Available

1988-02-26

This report reviews the current applications of magnetic resonance imaging of the central nervous system. Since its introduction into the clinical environment in the early 1980's, this technology has had a major impact on the practice of neurology. It has proved to be superior to computed tomography for imaging many diseases of the brain and spine. In some instances it has clearly replaced computed tomography. It is likely that it will replace myelography for the assessment of cervicomedullary junction and spinal regions. The magnetic field strengths currently used appear to be entirely safe for clinical application in neurology except inmore » patients with cardiac pacemakers or vascular metallic clips. Some shortcomings of magnetic resonance imaging include its expense, the time required for scanning, and poor visualization of cortical bone.« less

Back Disorder Intervention Strategies for Mass Transit Operators Exposed to Whole-Body VIBRATION—COMPARISON of Two Transit System Approaches and Practices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johanning, E.

1998-08-01

Occupational long-term whole-body vibration (WBV) has been recognized as a major risk factor for low back disorders, one of the most important reasons for medical impairment and early permanent disability among mass transit operators. Although no firm health and safety vibration exposure threshold limits have been established, the available data suggests that rail vehicle operators would probably fall under the proposed WBV “action levels” of the EU directive provisions for protection from physical hazards. This provision calls for technical, administrative and medical controls. This paper examines and compares the current conditions, provisions and plans of two major mass transit systems, the New Yorker MTA and the Munich MVV. The available data, information and publications (English/German) on working conditions, vibration exposure, epidemiology and intervention strategies (primary and secondary prevention) for rail bound mass transit workers were reviewed. Results strongly suggest that the MTA transit system has currently and in the near future no effective and meaningful controls in place to significantly reduce the WBV exposure of subway operators. It appears that the MVV system has more and better control measures in place to reduce harmful effects of WBV. Results of a scientific evaluation of a participatory, collaborative project in the MVV system suggest that the MVV may have developed a successful method of a “condition prevention” (Verhältnisprävention)—and “behavioral prevention” (Verhaltensprävention) intervention strategy, which appears beneficial for WBV exposed workers with existing low back pain. Long-term outcomes and benefits need to be assessed further.

Quantitative analysis of major dibenzocyclooctane lignans in Schisandrae fructus by online TLC-DART-MS.

PubMed

Kim, Hye Jin; Oh, Myung Sook; Hong, Jongki; Jang, Young Pyo

2011-01-01

Direct analysis in real time (DART) ion source is a powerful ionising technique for the quick and easy detection of various organic molecules without any sample preparation steps, but the lack of quantitation capacity limits its extensive use in the field of phytochemical analysis. To improvise a new system which utilize DART-MS as a hyphenated detector for quantitation. A total extract of Schisandra chinensis fruit was analyzed on a TLC plate and three major lignan compounds were quantitated by three different methods of UV densitometry, TLC-DART-MS and HPLC-UV to compare the efficiency of each method. To introduce the TLC plate into the DART ion source at a constant velocity, a syringe pump was employed. The DART-MS total ion current chromatogram was recorded for the entire TLC plate. The concentration of each lignan compound was calculated from the calibration curve established with standard compound. Gomisin A, gomisin N and schisandrin were well separated on a silica-coated TLC plate and the specific ion current chromatograms were successfully acquired from the TLC-DART-MS system. The TLC-DART-MS system for the quantitation of natural products showed better linearity and specificity than TLC densitometry, and consumed less time and solvent than conventional HPLC method. A hyphenated system for the quantitation of phytochemicals from crude herbal drugs was successfully established. This system was shown to have a powerful analytical capacity for the prompt and efficient quantitation of natural products from crude drugs. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Current progress in patient-specific modeling

PubMed Central

2010-01-01

We present a survey of recent advancements in the emerging field of patient-specific modeling (PSM). Researchers in this field are currently simulating a wide variety of tissue and organ dynamics to address challenges in various clinical domains. The majority of this research employs three-dimensional, image-based modeling techniques. Recent PSM publications mostly represent feasibility or preliminary validation studies on modeling technologies, and these systems will require further clinical validation and usability testing before they can become a standard of care. We anticipate that with further testing and research, PSM-derived technologies will eventually become valuable, versatile clinical tools. PMID:19955236

Instrumentation for motor-current signature analysis using synchronous sampling

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

Castleberry, K.N.

1996-07-01

Personnel in the Instrumentation and Controls Division at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, in association with the United States Enrichment Corporation, the U.S. Navy, and various Department of Energy sponsors, have been involved in the development and application of motor-current signature analysis for several years. In that time, innovation in the field has resulted in major improvements in signal processing, analysis, and system performance and capabilities. Recent work has concentrated on industrial implementation of one of the most promising new techniques. This report describes the developed method and the instrumentation package that is being used to investigate and develop potential applications.

Spiral counter-current chromatography: Design, development, application, and challenges.

PubMed

Huang, Xin-Yi; Sun, Xiao-Ming; Pei, Dong; Di, Duo-Long

2017-01-01

Depending on the rapid growth in the radial gradient of the centrifugal force, spiral counter-current chromatography can greatly improve the retention of stationary phase, especially for the aqueous two-phase systems with ultra-polar and high viscosity that are not well retained in the conventional multilayer coils counter-current chromatography. As a result, it is an attractive and alternative technology that is suited for separation of hydrophilic compounds and has led to many exciting progress in recent years. This review presents the recent advances and applications of spiral counter-current chromatography, including its major benefits and limitations, some novel methods to improve the separation efficiency and its applications in separation of real samples. In addition, the remaining challenges and future perspectives on development of spiral counter-current chromatography also are proposed in this article. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Influence of leaf vein density and thickness on hydraulic conductance and photosynthesis in rice (Oryza sativa L.) during water stress

PubMed Central

Tabassum, Muhammad Adnan; Zhu, Guanglong; Hafeez, Abdul; Wahid, Muhammad Atif; Shaban, Muhammad; Li, Yong

2016-01-01

The leaf venation architecture is an ideal, highly structured and efficient irrigation system in plant leaves. Leaf vein density (LVD) and vein thickness are the two major properties of this system. Leaf laminae carry out photosynthesis to harvest the maximum biological yield. It is still unknown whether the LVD and/or leaf vein thickness determines the plant hydraulic conductance (Kplant) and leaf photosynthetic rate (A). To investigate this topic, the current study was conducted with two varieties under three PEG-induced water deficit stress (PEG-IWDS) levels. The results showed that PEG-IWDS significantly decreased A, stomatal conductance (gs), and Kplant in both cultivars, though the IR-64 strain showed more severe decreases than the Hanyou-3 strain. PEG-IWDS significantly decreased the major vein thickness, while it had no significant effect on LVD. A, gs and Kplant were positively correlated with each other, and they were negatively correlated with LVD. A, gs and Kplant were positively correlated with the inter-vein distance and major vein thickness. Therefore, the decreased photosynthesis and hydraulic conductance in rice plants under water deficit conditions are related to the decrease in the major vein thickness. PMID:27848980

Technology readiness levels and technology status for selected long term/high payoff technologies on the RLV program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosmait, Russell L.

1996-01-01

The development of a new space transportation system in a climate of constant budget cuts and staff reductions can be and is a difficult task. It is no secret that NASA's current launching system consumes a very large portion of NASA funding and requires a large army of people to operate & maintain the system. The new Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) project and it's programs are faced with a monumental task of making the cost of access to space dramatically lower and more efficient than NASA's current system. With pressures from congressional budget cutters and also increased competition and loss of market share from international agencies RLV's first priority is to develop a 'low-cost, reliable transportation to earth orbit.' One of the RLV's major focus in achieving low-cost, reliable transportation to earth orbit is to rely on the maturing of advanced technologies. The technologies for the RLV are numerous and varied. Trying to assess their current status, within the RLV development program is paramount. There are several ways to assess these technologies. One way is through the use of Technology Readiness Levels (TRL's). This project focused on establishing current (summer 95) 'worst case' TRL's for six selected technologies that are under consideration for use within the RLV program. The six technologies evaluated were Concurrent Engineering, Embedded Sensor Technology, Rapid Prototyping, Friction Stir Welding, Thermal Spray Coatings, and VPPA Welding.

TBIdoc: 3D content-based CT image retrieval system for traumatic brain injury

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Shimiao; Gong, Tianxia; Wang, Jie; Liu, Ruizhe; Tan, Chew Lim; Leong, Tze Yun; Pang, Boon Chuan; Lim, C. C. Tchoyoson; Lee, Cheng Kiang; Tian, Qi; Zhang, Zhuo

2010-03-01

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major cause of death and disability. Computed Tomography (CT) scan is widely used in the diagnosis of TBI. Nowadays, large amount of TBI CT data is stacked in the hospital radiology department. Such data and the associated patient information contain valuable information for clinical diagnosis and outcome prediction. However, current hospital database system does not provide an efficient and intuitive tool for doctors to search out cases relevant to the current study case. In this paper, we present the TBIdoc system: a content-based image retrieval (CBIR) system which works on the TBI CT images. In this web-based system, user can query by uploading CT image slices from one study, retrieval result is a list of TBI cases ranked according to their 3D visual similarity to the query case. Specifically, cases of TBI CT images often present diffuse or focal lesions. In TBIdoc system, these pathological image features are represented as bin-based binary feature vectors. We use the Jaccard-Needham measure as the similarity measurement. Based on these, we propose a 3D similarity measure for computing the similarity score between two series of CT slices. nDCG is used to evaluate the system performance, which shows the system produces satisfactory retrieval results. The system is expected to improve the current hospital data management in TBI and to give better support for the clinical decision-making process. It may also contribute to the computer-aided education in TBI.

Toward a new generation of agricultural system data, models, and knowledge products: State of agricultural systems science.

PubMed

Jones, James W; Antle, John M; Basso, Bruno; Boote, Kenneth J; Conant, Richard T; Foster, Ian; Godfray, H Charles J; Herrero, Mario; Howitt, Richard E; Janssen, Sander; Keating, Brian A; Munoz-Carpena, Rafael; Porter, Cheryl H; Rosenzweig, Cynthia; Wheeler, Tim R

2017-07-01

We review the current state of agricultural systems science, focusing in particular on the capabilities and limitations of agricultural systems models. We discuss the state of models relative to five different Use Cases spanning field, farm, landscape, regional, and global spatial scales and engaging questions in past, current, and future time periods. Contributions from multiple disciplines have made major advances relevant to a wide range of agricultural system model applications at various spatial and temporal scales. Although current agricultural systems models have features that are needed for the Use Cases, we found that all of them have limitations and need to be improved. We identified common limitations across all Use Cases, namely 1) a scarcity of data for developing, evaluating, and applying agricultural system models and 2) inadequate knowledge systems that effectively communicate model results to society. We argue that these limitations are greater obstacles to progress than gaps in conceptual theory or available methods for using system models. New initiatives on open data show promise for addressing the data problem, but there also needs to be a cultural change among agricultural researchers to ensure that data for addressing the range of Use Cases are available for future model improvements and applications. We conclude that multiple platforms and multiple models are needed for model applications for different purposes. The Use Cases provide a useful framework for considering capabilities and limitations of existing models and data.

Toward a New Generation of Agricultural System Data, Models, and Knowledge Products: State of Agricultural Systems Science

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, James W.; Antle, John M.; Basso, Bruno; Boote, Kenneth J.; Conant, Richard T.; Foster, Ian; Godfray, H. Charles J.; Herrero, Mario; Howitt, Richard E.; Janssen, Sander;

Toward a new generation of agricultural system data, models, and knowledge products: State of agricultural systems science

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

Jones, James W.; Antle, John M.; Basso, Bruno

We review the current state of agricultural systems science, focusing in particular on the capabilities and limitations of agricultural systems models. We discuss the state of models relative to five different Use Cases spanning field, farm, landscape, regional, and global spatial scales and engaging questions in past, current, and future time periods. Contributions from multiple disciplines have made major advances relevant to a wide range of agricultural system model applications at various spatial and temporal scales. Although current agricultural systems models have features that are needed for the Use Cases, we found that all of them have limitations and needmore » to be improved. We identified common limitations across all Use Cases, namely 1) a scarcity of data for developing, evaluating, and applying agricultural system models and 2) inadequate knowledge systems that effectively communicate model results to society. We argue that these limitations are greater obstacles to progress than gaps in conceptual theory or available methods for using system models. New initiatives on open data show promise for addressing the data problem, but there also needs to be a cultural change among agricultural researchers to ensure that data for addressing the range of Use Cases are available for future model improvements and applications. We conclude that multiple platforms and multiple models are needed for model applications for different purposes. The Use Cases provide a useful framework for considering capabilities and limitations of existing models and data.« less

Using Rollback Avoidance to Mitigate Failures in Next-Generation Extreme-Scale Systems

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

Levy, Scott N.

2016-05-01

High-performance computing (HPC) systems enable scientists to numerically model complex phenomena in many important physical systems. The next major milestone in the development of HPC systems is the construction of the rst supercomputer capable executing more than an exa op, 10 18 oating point operations per second. On systems of this scale, failures will occur much more frequently than on current systems. As a result, resilience is a key obstacle to building next-generation extremescale systems. Coordinated checkpointing is currently the most widely-used mechanism for handling failures on HPC systems. Although coordinated checkpointing remains e ective on current systems, increasing themore » scale of today's systems to build next-generation systems will increase the cost of fault tolerance as more and more time is taken away from the application to protect against or recover from failure. Rollback avoidance techniques seek to mitigate the cost of checkpoint/restart by allowing an application to continue its execution rather than rolling back to an earlier checkpoint when failures occur. These techniqes include failure prediction and preventive migration, replicated computation, fault-tolerant algorithms, and softwarebased memory fault correction. In this thesis, we examine how rollback avoidance techniques can be used to address failures on extreme-scale systems. Using a combination of analytic modeling and simulation, we evaluate the potential impact of rollback avoidance on these systems. We then present a novel rollback avoidance technique that exploits similarities in application memory. Finally, we examine the feasibility of using this technique to protect against memory faults in kernel memory.« less

Mental health care delivery system reform in Belgium: the challenge of achieving deinstitutionalisation whilst addressing fragmentation of care at the same time.

PubMed

Nicaise, Pablo; Dubois, Vincent; Lorant, Vincent

2014-04-01

Most mental health care delivery systems in welfare states currently face two major issues: deinstitutionalisation and fragmentation of care. Belgium is in the process of reforming its mental health care delivery system with the aim of simultaneously strengthening community care and improving integration of care. The new policy model attempts to strike a balance between hospitals and community services, and is based on networks of services. We carried out a content analysis of the policy blueprint for the reform and performed an ex-ante evaluation of its plan of operation, based on the current knowledge of mental health service networks. When we examined the policy's multiple aims, intermediate goals, suggested tools, and their articulation, we found that it was unclear how the new policy could achieve its goals. Indeed, deinstitutionalisation and integration of care require different network structures, and different modes of governance. Furthermore, most of the mechanisms contained within the new policy were not sufficiently detailed. Consequently, three major threats to the effectiveness of the reform were identified. These were: issues concerning the relationship between network structure and purpose, the continued influence of hospitals despite the goal of deinstitutionalisation, and the heterogeneity in the actual implementation of the new policy. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Current patents and future development underlying marker-assisted breeding in major grain crops.

PubMed

Utomo, Herry S; Linscombe, Steve D

2009-01-01

Genomics and molecular markers provide new tools to assemble and mobilize important traits from different genetic backgrounds, including breeding lines and cultivars from different parts of the world and their related wild ancestors, to improve the quality and yield of the existing commercial cultivars to meet the increasing challenges of global food demand. The basic techniques of marker-assisted breeding, such as isolating DNA, amplifying DNA of interest using publicly available primers, and visualizing DNA fragments using standard polyacrylamid gel, have been described in the literature and, therefore, are available to scientists and breeders without any restrictions. A more sophisticated high-throughput system that includes proprietary chemicals and reagents, parts and equipments, software, and methods or processes, has been a subject of intensive patents and trade secrets. The high-throughput systems offer a more efficient way to discover associated QTLs for traits of economic importance. Therefore, an increasing number of patents of highly valued genes and QTLs is expected. This paper will discuss and review current patents associated with genes and QTLs utilized in marker-assisted breeding in major grain crops. The availability of molecular markers for important agronomic traits combined with more efficient marker detection systems will help reach the full benefit of MAS in the breeding effort to reassemble potential genes and recapture critical genes among the breeding lines that were lost during domestication to help boost crop production worldwide.

The Orbiter camera payload system's large-format camera and attitude reference system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schardt, B. B.; Mollberg, B. H.

1985-01-01

The Orbiter camera payload system (OCPS) is an integrated photographic system carried into earth orbit as a payload in the Space Transportation System (STS) Orbiter vehicle's cargo bay. The major component of the OCPS is a large-format camera (LFC), a precision wide-angle cartographic instrument capable of producing high-resolution stereophotography of great geometric fidelity in multiple base-to-height ratios. A secondary and supporting system to the LFC is the attitude reference system (ARS), a dual-lens stellar camera array (SCA) and camera support structure. The SCA is a 70 mm film system that is rigidly mounted to the LFC lens support structure and, through the simultaneous acquisition of two star fields with each earth viewing LFC frame, makes it possible to precisely determine the pointing of the LFC optical axis with reference to the earth nadir point. Other components complete the current OCPS configuration as a high-precision cartographic data acquisition system. The primary design objective for the OCPS was to maximize system performance characteristics while maintaining a high level of reliability compatible with rocket launch conditions and the on-orbit environment. The full OCPS configuration was launched on a highly successful maiden voyage aboard the STS Orbiter vehicle Challenger on Oct. 5, 1984, as a major payload aboard the STS-41G mission.

Electronic approaches to restoration of sight

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goetz, G. A.; Palanker, D. V.

2016-09-01

Retinal prostheses are a promising means for restoring sight to patients blinded by the gradual atrophy of photoreceptors due to retinal degeneration. They are designed to reintroduce information into the visual system by electrically stimulating surviving neurons in the retina. This review outlines the concepts and technologies behind two major approaches to retinal prosthetics: epiretinal and subretinal. We describe how the visual system responds to electrical stimulation. We highlight major differences between direct encoding of the retinal output with epiretinal stimulation, and network-mediated response with subretinal stimulation. We summarize results of pre-clinical evaluation of prosthetic visual functions in- and ex vivo, as well as the outcomes of current clinical trials of various retinal implants. We also briefly review alternative, non-electronic, approaches to restoration of sight to the blind, and conclude by suggesting some perspectives for future advancement in the field.

Electronic Approaches to Restoration of Sight

PubMed Central

Goetz, G A; Palanker, D V

2016-01-01

Retinal prostheses are a promising means for restoring sight to patients blinded by the gradual atrophy of photoreceptors due to retinal degeneration. They are designed to reintroduce information into the visual system by electrically stimulating surviving neurons in the retina. This review outlines the concepts and technologies behind two major approaches to retinal prosthetics: epiretinal and subretinal. We describe how the visual system responds to electrical stimulation. We highlight major differences between direct encoding of the retinal output with epiretinal stimulation, and network-mediated response with subretinal stimulation. We summarize results of pre-clinical evaluation of prosthetic visual functions in- and ex-vivo, as well as the outcomes of current clinical trials of various retinal implants. We also briefly review alternative, non-electronic, approaches to restoration of sight to the blind, and conclude by suggesting some perspectives for future advancement in the field. PMID:27502748

The light-harvesting antenna of Chlorobium tepidum: interactions between the FMO protein and the major chlorosome protein CsmA studied by surface plasmon resonance.

PubMed

Pedersen, Marie Østergaard; Borch, Jonas; Højrup, Peter; Cox, Raymond P; Miller, Mette

2006-09-01

Green sulfur bacteria possess two external light-harvesting antenna systems, the chlorosome and the FMO protein, which participate in a sequential energy transfer to the reaction centers embedded in the cytoplasmic membrane. However, little is known about the physical interaction between these two antenna systems. We have studied the interaction between the major chlorosome protein, CsmA, and the FMO protein in Chlorobium tepidum using surface plasmon resonance (SPR). Our results show an interaction between the FMO protein and an immobilized synthetic peptide corresponding to 17 amino acids at the C terminal of CsmA. This interaction is dependent on the presence of a motif comprising six amino acids that are highly conserved in all the currently available CsmA protein sequences.

Very serious and non-ignorable problem: Crisis in emergency medical response in catastrophic event.

PubMed

Shen, Weifeng; Jiang, Libing; Zhang, Mao; Ma, Yuefeng; Jiang, Guanyu; He, Xiaojun

2015-12-01

The crisis of medical response caused by catastrophic events might significantly affect emergency response, and might even initiate more serious social crisis. Therefore, early identification and timely blocking the formation of crisis in the early phase after a major disaster will improve the efficiency of medical response in a major disaster and avoid serious consequences. In the present paper, we described the emergency strategy to crisis management of medical response after a major disaster. Major catastrophic events often lead to various crises, including excess demand, the crisis of response in barrier and the structural crisis in response. The corresponding emergency response strategies include: (i) shunt of catastrophic medical surge; (ii) scalability of medical surge capacity; (iii) matching of the structural elements of response; (iv) maintaining the functions of support system for medical response and maximising the operation of the integrated response system; and (v) selection of appropriate care 'standard' in extreme situations of overload of disaster medical surge. In conclusion, under the impact of a major catastrophic event, medical response is often complex and the medical surge beyond the conventional response capacity and it is easy to be in crisis. In addition to the current consensus of disaster response, three additional aspects should be considered. First, all relevant society forces led by the government and military should be linkages. Second, a powerful medical response system must be based on a strong support system. Third, countermeasures of medical surge should be applied flexibly to the special and specific disaster environment, to promote the effective medical response force. © 2015 Australasian College for Emergency Medicine and Australasian Society for Emergency Medicine.

HST Observations Reveal the Curious Geometry of Circumgalactic Gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kacprzak, Glenn G.; Muzahid, Sowgat; Churchill, Christopher W.; Nielsen, Nikole M.; Charlton, Jane C.

2016-06-01

We have discovered that warm gas flows along galaxy major and minor axes detected out to 200 kpc. Our results are derived from a sample of HST-imaged isolated galaxies with nearby background quasars used to probe their 105K CGM detected in HST/COS UV spectra (traced by OVI absorption). We constrain the geometry of the gas to reside between 20-40 degrees of the projected major axis and within 60 degrees of the projected minor axis, with little-to-no gas found in between. Furthermore, strong absorption systems tend to be found along the minor axes of star-forming galaxies. All of our results are consistent with the current view of the CGM originating from major axis-fed inflows/recycled gas and from minor axis-driven outflows.

HST Observations Reveal the Curious Geometry of Circumgalactic Gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kacprzak, Glenn G.; Muzahid, Sowgat; Churchill, Christopher W.; Nielsen, Nikole M.; Charlton, Jane C.

2017-03-01

We have discovered that warm gas flows along galaxy major and minor axes detected out to 200 kpc. Our results are derived from a sample of HST-imaged isolated galaxies with nearby background quasars used to probe their 105K CGM detected in HST/COS UV spectra (traced by Ovi absorption). We constrain the geometry of the gas to reside between 20-40 degrees of the projected major axis and within 60 degrees of the projected minor axis, with little-to-no gas found in between. Furthermore, strong absorption systems tend to be found along the minor axes of star-forming galaxies. All of our results are consistent with the current view of the CGM originating from major axis-fed inflows/recycled gas and from minor axis-driven outflows.

International Space Station Major Constituent Analyzer On-Orbit Performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gardner, Ben D.; Erwin, Phillip M.; Thoresen, Souzan; Granahan, John; Matty, Chris

2012-01-01

The Major Constituent Analyzer is a mass spectrometer based system that measures the major atmospheric constituents on the International Space Station. A number of limited-life components require periodic changeout, including the ORU 02 analyzer and the ORU 08 Verification Gas Assembly. Over the past two years, two ORU 02 analyzer assemblies have operated nominally while two others have experienced premature on-orbit failures. These failures as well as nominal performances demonstrate that ORU 02 performance remains a key determinant of MCA performance and logistical support. It can be shown that monitoring several key parameters can maximize the capacity to monitor ORU health and properly anticipate end of life. Improvements to ion pump operation and ion source tuning are expected to improve lifetime performance of the current ORU 02 design.

The POIS (Parkland On-Line Information System) Implementation of the IBM Health Care Support/Patient Care System

PubMed Central

Mishelevich, David J.; Hudson, Betty G.; Van Slyke, Donald; Mize, Elaine I.; Robinson, Anna L.; Brieden, Helen C.; Atkinson, Jack; Robertson, James

1980-01-01

The installation of major components of a comprehensive Hospital Information System (HIS) called POIS, the Parkland On-line Information System, including identified success factors is described for the Dallas County Hospital District (DCHD) known also as the Parkland Memorial Hospital. Installation of the on-line IBM Health Care Support (HCS) Registration and Admissions Packages occurred in 1976 and implementation of the HCS Patient Care System (PCS) began in 1977 which includes on-line support of health care areas such as nursing stations and ancillary areas. The Duke Hospital Information System (DHIS) is marketed as the IBM HCS/Patient Care System (PCS). DCHD was the validation site. POIS has order entry, result reporting and work management components. While most of the patient care components are currently installed for the inpatient service, the Laboratories are being installed for the outpatient and Emergency areas as well. The Clinic Appointment System developed at the University of Michigan is also installed. The HCS family of programs use DL/1 and CICS and were installed in the OS versions, currently running under MVS on an IBM 370/168 Model 3 with 8 megabytes of main memory. ImagesFigure 1-AFigure 1-B

Orbit Transfer Systems with Emphasis on Shuttle Applications, 1986-1991

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

A systems study is presented for a transportation system which will follow the interim upper stage and spinning solid upper stage. Included are concepts, concept comparisons, trends, parametric data, etc. associated with the future system. Relevant technical and programmatic information is developed. This information is intended to focus future activity to identify attractive options and to summarize the major issues associated with the future development of the system. To establish a common basis for identifying current transportation concepts, an orbit transfer vehicle (OTV) is defined as a propulsive (velocity producing) rocket or stage. When used with a crew transfer module, a manned sortie module or other payloads, the combination becomes an orbit transfer system (OTS). Standardization of OTV's and OTS's is required.

Innovation in Information Technology: Theoretical and Empirical Study in SMQR Section of Export Import in Automotive Industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Edi Nugroho Soebandrija, Khristian; Pratama, Yogi

2014-03-01

This paper has the objective to provide the innovation in information technology in both theoretical and empirical study. Precisely, both aspects relate to the Shortage Mispacking Quality Report (SMQR) Claims in Export and Import in Automotive Industry. This paper discusses the major aspects of Innovation, Information Technology, Performance and Competitive Advantage. Furthermore, In the empirical study of PT. Astra Honda Motor (AHM) refers to SMQR Claims, Communication Systems, Analysis and Design Systems. Briefly both aspects of the major aspects and its empirical study are discussed in the Introduction Session. Furthermore, the more detail discussion is conducted in the related aspects in other sessions of this paper, in particular in Literature Review in term classical and updated reference of current research. The increases of SMQR claim and communication problem at PT. Astra Daihatsu Motor (PT. ADM) which still using the email cause the time of claim settlement become longer and finally it causes the rejected of SMQR claim by supplier. With presence of this problem then performed to design the integrated communication system to manage the communication process of SMQR claim between PT. ADM with supplier. The systems was analyzed and designed is expected to facilitate the claim communication process so that can be run in accordance with the procedure and fulfill the target of claim settlement time and also eliminate the difficulties and problems on the previous manual communication system with the email. The design process of the system using the approach of system development life cycle method by Kendall & Kendall (2006)which design process covers the SMQR problem communication process, judgment process by the supplier, claim process, claim payment process and claim monitoring process. After getting the appropriate system designs for managing the SMQR claim, furthermore performed the system implementation and can be seen the improvement in claim communication process and settlement time become faster and achieve the target. The conclusion in this paper comprises two major aspects. The first one refers to the conclusion in term of theory and concept. The second one refers to the conclusion in term of the empirical study of one of automotive industries in Indonesia. Both of them are expected to have contribution in current and future research of related aspects that are discussed in this paper.

From Diagnosis to Action: An Automated Failure Advisor for Human Deep Space Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Colombano, Silvano; Spirkovska, Lilly; Baskaran, Vijayakumar; Morris, Paul; Mcdermott, William; Ossenfort, John; Bajwa, Anupa

2015-01-01

The major goal of current space system development at NASA is to enable human travel to deep space locations such as Mars and asteroids. At that distance, round trip communication with ground operators may take close to an hour, thus it becomes unfeasible to seek ground operator advice for problems that require immediate attention, either for crew safety or for activities that need to be performed at specific times for the attainment of scientific results. To achieve this goal, major reliance will need to be placed on automation systems capable of aiding the crew in detecting and diagnosing failures, assessing consequences of these failures, and providing guidance in repair activities that may be required. We report here on the most current step in the continuing development of such a system, and that is the addition of a Failure Response Advisor. In simple terms, we have a system in place the Advanced Caution and Warning System (ACAWS) to tell us what happened (failure diagnosis) and what happened because that happened (failure effects). The Failure Response Advisor will tell us what to do about it, how long until something must be done and why its important that something be done and will begin to approach the complex reasoning that is generally required for an optimal approach to automated system health management. This advice is based on the criticality and various timing elements, such as durations of activities and of component repairs, failure effects delay, and other factors. The failure advice is provided to operators (crew and mission controllers) together with the diagnostic and effects information. The operators also have the option to drill down for more information about the failure and the reasons for any suggested priorities.

Using provenance of terrigenous sediment to reconstruct the Agulhas Leakage during the Early and Late Pleistocene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pearson, B.; Franzese, A. M.

2017-12-01

The Agulhas Current, the strongest western boundary current in the southern hemisphere, is uniquely characterized by its strong retroflection. The current carries water southward from the Indian Ocean toward the cape of South Africa, before turning back on itself. At this point of retroflection, some of the current's flow escapes into the southern Atlantic Ocean. This transfer of water from the Indian Ocean to Atlantic Ocean makes up the Agulhas Leakage. The Leakage occurs in a series of eddies and rings located in the Cape Basin south of the African continent. Scientific literature demonstrates that relatively buoyant leakage water has been a determining factor varying strength of the Atlantic Meridional Ocean Current (AMOC), during glacial-interglacial cycles. It has been demonstrated that radiogenic isotope, major, and trace element concentrations serve as a proxy for terrigenous sediment provenance in the Agulhas region. Current understanding is that terrigenous sediment provenance is older during warmer periods of deposition. This corresponds to more input from southeastern African end members, and thus a stronger Agulhas Current, during warming periods in the paleoclimate record. Conversely, younger terrigenous sediment deposited during colder periods, such as the Last Glacial Maximum, suggests a weaker Agulhas Current, and less Agulhas Leakage. In 2016, on the International Ocean Discovery Program Expedition 361, sediment cores were drilled at 6 sites in the Greater Agulhas region. A major goal of the expedition was to expand knowledge of the relation between changes in the Agulhas System and changes in paleoclimate, southern African climate, and AMOC. We analyzed sediment from Expedition 361 Site U1479 (35°03.53'S; 17°24.06'E; 2615 mbsl) located where the Agulhas Leakage occurs. We measured Argon, strontium isotope ratios, ɛNd, trace and major element concentrations on the <2 micron clay fraction. Preliminary results foretell promising findings. For instance, for the Early Pleistocene ( 1.3 - 1.5 Ma), K-Ar model ages correlate with shipboard measurements of natural gamma radiation, which show approximate 41 kyr periodicity.

Whole Wafer Design and Fabrication for the Alignment of Nanostructures for Chemical Sensor Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Biaggi-Labiosa, Azlin M.; Hunter, Gary W.

2013-01-01

A major objective in aerospace sensor development is to produce sensors that are small in size, easy to batch fabricate and low in cost, and have low power consumption The fabrication of chemical sensors involving nanostructured materials can provide these properties as well as the potential for the development of sensor systems with unique properties and improved performance. However, the fabrication and processing of nanostructures for sensor applications currently is limited in the ability to control their location on the sensor. Currently, our group at NASA Glenn Research Center has demonstrated the controlled placement of nanostructures in sensors using a sawtooth patterned electrode design. With this design the nanostructures are aligned between opposing sawtooth electrodes by applying an alternating current.

A qualitative study of the current situation of elderly care in Iran: what can we do for the future?

PubMed

Goharinezhad, Salime; Maleki, Mohammadreza; Baradaran, Hamid Reza; Ravaghi, Hamid

2016-01-01

With the successful improvement of global health systems and social security in societies, the world is now advancing toward aging. All countries have to face the phenomenon of population aging sooner or later depending on their degree of development; however, elderly care is predicted to soon become a major concern for developing countries such as Iran. This study was conducted to identify the challenges of elderly care in Iran and to help policymakers develop roadmaps for the future through providing a clearer image of the current state of affairs in this area of healthcare. This study has adopted a framework approach to qualitative data analysis. For this purpose, 37 semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2015 with a number of key informants in elderly care who were familiar with the process at macro-, meso-, and micro-levels. Maximum variation purposive sampling was performed to select the study samples. A conceptual framework was designed using a review of the literature, and key issues were then identified for data analysis. The elderly care process yielded five major challenges, including policymaking, access, technical infrastructure, integrity and coordination, and health-based care services. According to the stakeholders of elderly care in Iran, the current care system is not well-suited for meeting the needs of the elderly, as the elderly tend to receive the services they need sporadically and in a non-coherent manner. Given the rapid growth of the elderly population in the coming decades, it is the authorities' job to concentrate on the challenges faced by the health system and to use foresight methods for the comprehensive and systematical management of the issue.

Current status and perspectives of interventional clinical trials for glioblastoma - analysis of ClinicalTrials.gov.

PubMed

Cihoric, Nikola; Tsikkinis, Alexandros; Minniti, Giuseppe; Lagerwaard, Frank J; Herrlinger, Ulrich; Mathier, Etienne; Soldatovic, Ivan; Jeremic, Branislav; Ghadjar, Pirus; Elicin, Olgun; Lössl, Kristina; Aebersold, Daniel M; Belka, Claus; Herrmann, Evelyn; Niyazi, Maximilian

2017-01-03

The records of 208.777 (100%) clinical trials registered at ClinicalTrials.gov were downloaded on the 19th of February 2016. Phase II and III trials including patients with glioblastoma were selected for further classification and analysis. Based on the disease settings, trials were classified into three groups: newly diagnosed glioblastoma, recurrent disease and trials with no differentiation according to disease setting. Furthermore, we categorized trials according to the experimental interventions, the primary sponsor, the source of financial support and trial design elements. Trends were evaluated using the autoregressive integrated moving average model. Two hundred sixteen (0.1%) trials were selected for further analysis. Academic centers (investigator initiated trials) were recorded as primary sponsors in 56.9% of trials, followed by industry 25.9%. Industry was the leading source of monetary support for the selected trials in 44.4%, followed by 25% of trials with primarily academic financial support. The number of newly initiated trials between 2005 and 2015 shows a positive trend, mainly through an increase in phase II trials, whereas phase III trials show a negative trend. The vast majority of trials evaluate forms of different systemic treatments (91.2%). In total, one hundred different molecular entities or biologicals were identified. Of those, 60% were involving drugs specifically designed for central nervous system malignancies. Trials that specifically address radiotherapy, surgery, imaging and other therapeutic or diagnostic methods appear to be rare. Current research in glioblastoma is mainly driven or sponsored by industry, academic medical oncologists and neuro-oncologists, with the majority of trials evaluating forms of systemic therapies. Few trials reach phase III. Imaging, radiation therapy and surgical procedures are underrepresented in current trials portfolios. Optimization in research portfolio for glioblastoma is needed.

Radiobiology of systemic radiation therapy.

PubMed

Murray, David; McEwan, Alexander J

2007-02-01

Although systemic radionuclide therapy (SRT) is effective as a palliative therapy in patients with metastatic cancer, there has been limited success in expanding patterns of utilization and in bringing novel systemic radiotherapeutic agents to routine clinical use. Although there are many factors that contribute to this situation, we hypothesize that a better understanding of the radiobiology and mechanism of action of SRT will facilitate the development of future compounds and the future designs of prospective clinical trials. If these trials can be rationalized to the biological basis of the therapy, it is likely that the long-term outcome would be enhanced therapeutic efficacy. In this review, we provide perspectives of the current state of low-dose-rate (LDR) radiation research and offer linkages where appropriate with current clinical knowledge. These include the recently described phenomena of low-dose hyper-radiosensitivity-increased radioresistance (LDH-IRR), adaptive responses, and biological bystander effects. Each of these areas require a major reconsideration of existing models for radiation action and an understanding of how this knowledge will integrate into the evolution of clinical SRT practice. Validation of a role in vivo for both LDH-IRR and biological bystander effects in SRT would greatly impact the way we would assess therapeutic response to SRT, the design of clinical trials of novel SRT radiopharmaceuticals, and risk estimates for both therapeutic and diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals. We believe that the current state of research in LDR effects offers a major opportunity to the nuclear medicine community to address the basic science of clinical SRT practice, to use this new knowledge to expand the use and roles of SRT, and to facilitate the introduction of new therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals.

Aviation Weather Information Requirements Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keel, Byron M.; Stancil, Charles E.; Eckert, Clifford A.; Brown, Susan M.; Gimmestad, Gary G.; Richards, Mark A.; Schaffner, Philip R. (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

The Aviation Safety Program (AvSP) has as its goal an improvement in aviation safety by a factor of 5 over the next 10 years and a factor of 10 over the next 20 years. Since weather has a big impact on aviation safety and is associated with 30% of all aviation accidents, Weather Accident Prevention (WxAP) is a major element under this program. The Aviation Weather Information (AWIN) Distribution and Presentation project is one of three projects under this element. This report contains the findings of a study conducted by the Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) under the Enhanced Weather Products effort, which is a task under AWIN. The study examines current aviation weather products and there application. The study goes on to identify deficiencies in the current system and to define requirements for aviation weather products that would lead to an increase in safety. The study also provides an overview the current set of sensors applied to the collection of aviation weather information. New, modified, or fused sensor systems are identified which could be applied in improving the current set of weather products and in addressing the deficiencies defined in the report. In addition, the study addresses and recommends possible sensors for inclusion in an electronic pilot reporting (EPIREP) system.

Rethinking school-based health centers as complex adaptive systems: maximizing opportunities for the prevention of teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

PubMed

Daley, Alison Moriarty

2012-01-01

This article examines school-based health centers (SBHCs) as complex adaptive systems, the current gaps that exist in contraceptive access, and the potential to maximize this community resource in teen pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection (STI) prevention efforts. Adolescent pregnancy is a major public health challenge for the United States. Existing community resources need to be considered for their potential to impact teen pregnancy and STI prevention efforts. SBHCs are one such community resource to be leveraged in these efforts. They offer adolescent-friendly primary care services and are responsive to the diverse needs of the adolescents utilizing them. However, current restrictions on contraceptive availability limit the ability of SBHCs to maximize opportunities for comprehensive reproductive care and create missed opportunities for pregnancy and STI prevention. A clinical case explores the current models of health care services related to contraceptive care provided in SBHCs and the ability to meet or miss the needs of an adolescent seeking reproductive care in a SBHC.

Voltage-gated Na+ currents in human dorsal root ganglion neurons

PubMed Central

Zhang, Xiulin; Priest, Birgit T; Belfer, Inna; Gold, Michael S

2017-01-01

Available evidence indicates voltage-gated Na+ channels (VGSCs) in peripheral sensory neurons are essential for the pain and hypersensitivity associated with tissue injury. However, our understanding of the biophysical and pharmacological properties of the channels in sensory neurons is largely based on the study of heterologous systems or rodent tissue, despite evidence that both expression systems and species differences influence these properties. Therefore, we sought to determine the extent to which the biophysical and pharmacological properties of VGSCs were comparable in rat and human sensory neurons. Whole cell patch clamp techniques were used to study Na+ currents in acutely dissociated neurons from human and rat. Our results indicate that while the two major current types, generally referred to as tetrodotoxin (TTX)-sensitive and TTX-resistant were qualitatively similar in neurons from rats and humans, there were several differences that have important implications for drug development as well as our understanding of pain mechanisms. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.23235.001 PMID:28508747