75 FR 38423 - Minimum Levels of Financial Responsibility for Motor Carriers

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-02

... No. FMCSA-2006-26262] RIN 2126-AB05 Minimum Levels of Financial Responsibility for Motor Carriers... amends its regulations concerning minimum levels of financial responsibility for motor carriers to allow... principal place of business. This final rule does not change the required minimum levels of financial...

78 FR 78256 - Shared Responsibility Payment for Not Maintaining Minimum Essential Coverage; Correction

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-26

... Shared Responsibility Payment for Not Maintaining Minimum Essential Coverage; Correction AGENCY: Internal... 5000A of the Internal Revenue Code for the shared responsibility payment for not maintaining minimum... language ``for shared responsibility payment for an'' is corrected to read ``for the shared responsibility...

Investigation of Al/CuO multilayered thermite ignition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nicollet, Andréa; Lahiner, Guillaume; Belisario, Andres; Souleille, Sandrine; Djafari-Rouhani, Mehdi; Estève, Alain; Rossi, Carole

2017-01-01

The ignition of the Al/CuO multilayered material is studied experimentally to explore the effects of the heating surface area, layering, and film thickness on the ignition characteristics and reaction performances. After the description of the micro-initiator devices and ignition conditions, we show that the heating surface area must be properly calibrated to optimize the nanothermite ignition performances. We demonstrated experimentally that a heating surface area of 0.25 mm2 is sufficient to ignite a multilayered thermite film of 1.6 mm wide by a few cm long, with a success rate of 100%. A new analytical and phenomenological ignition model based on atomic diffusion across layers and thermal exchange is also proposed. This model considers that CuO first decomposes into Cu2O, and then the oxygen diffuses across the Cu2O and Al2O3 layers before reaching the Al layer, where it reacts to form Al2O3. The theoretical results in terms of ignition response times confirm the experimental observation. The increase of the heating surface area leads to an increase of the ignition response time and ignition power threshold (go/no go condition). We also provide evidence that, for any heating surface area, the ignition time rapidly decreases when the electrical power density increases until an asymptotic value. This time point is referred to as the minimum response ignition time, which is a characteristic of the multilayered thermite itself. At the stoichiometric ratio (Al thickness is half of the CuO thickness), the minimum ignition response time can be easily tuned from 59 μs to 418 ms by tuning the heating surface area. The minimum ignition response time increases when the bilayer thickness increases. This work not only provides a set of micro-initiator design rules to obtain the best ignition conditions and reaction performances but also details a reliable and robust MicroElectroMechanical Systems process to fabricate igniters and brings new understanding of phenomena governing the ignition process of Al/CuO multilayers.

Time delay between the SYMH and the solar wind energy input during intense storms determined by response function analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cao, X.; Du, A.

2014-12-01

We statistically studied the response time of the SYMH to the solar wind energy input ɛ by using the RFA approach. The average response time was 64 minutes. There was no clear trend among these events concerning to the minimum SYMH and storm type. It seems that the response time of magnetosphere to the solar wind energy input is independent on the storm intensity and the solar wind condition. The response function shows one peak even when the solar wind energy input and the SYMH have multi-peak. The response time exhibits as the intrinsic property of the magnetosphere that stands for the typical formation time of the ring current. This may be controlled by magnetospheric temperature, average number density, the oxygen abundance et al.

Multifactorial analysis of human blood cell responses to clinical total body irradiation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yuhas, J. M.; Stokes, T. R.; Lushbaugh, C. C.

1972-01-01

Multiple regression analysis techniques are used to study the effects of therapeutic radiation exposure, number of fractions, and time on such quantal responses as tumor control and skin injury. The potential of these methods for the analysis of human blood cell responses is demonstrated and estimates are given of the effects of total amount of exposure and time of protraction in determining the minimum white blood cell concentration observed after exposure of patients from four disease groups.

Evaluation of alternative model selection criteria in the analysis of unimodal response curves using CART

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ribic, C.A.; Miller, T.W.

1998-01-01

We investigated CART performance with a unimodal response curve for one continuous response and four continuous explanatory variables, where two variables were important (ie directly related to the response) and the other two were not. We explored performance under three relationship strengths and two explanatory variable conditions: equal importance and one variable four times as important as the other. We compared CART variable selection performance using three tree-selection rules ('minimum risk', 'minimum risk complexity', 'one standard error') to stepwise polynomial ordinary least squares (OLS) under four sample size conditions. The one-standard-error and minimum-risk-complexity methods performed about as well as stepwise OLS with large sample sizes when the relationship was strong. With weaker relationships, equally important explanatory variables and larger sample sizes, the one-standard-error and minimum-risk-complexity rules performed better than stepwise OLS. With weaker relationships and explanatory variables of unequal importance, tree-structured methods did not perform as well as stepwise OLS. Comparing performance within tree-structured methods, with a strong relationship and equally important explanatory variables, the one-standard-error-rule was more likely to choose the correct model than were the other tree-selection rules 1) with weaker relationships and equally important explanatory variables; and 2) under all relationship strengths when explanatory variables were of unequal importance and sample sizes were lower.

An improved algorithm for evaluating trellis phase codes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mulligan, M. G.; Wilson, S. G.

1982-01-01

A method is described for evaluating the minimum distance parameters of trellis phase codes, including CPFSK, partial response FM, and more importantly, coded CPM (continuous phase modulation) schemes. The algorithm provides dramatically faster execution times and lesser memory requirements than previous algorithms. Results of sample calculations and timing comparisons are included.

An improved algorithm for evaluating trellis phase codes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mulligan, M. G.; Wilson, S. G.

1984-01-01

A method is described for evaluating the minimum distance parameters of trellis phase codes, including CPFSK, partial response FM, and more importantly, coded CPM (continuous phase modulation) schemes. The algorithm provides dramatically faster execution times and lesser memory requirements than previous algorithms. Results of sample calculations and timing comparisons are included.

Characterization of Terahertz Bi-Material Sensors with Integrated Metamaterial Absorbers

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-09-01

Kumar, Qing Hu, and J. L. Reno, “Real-time imaging using a 4.3-THz quantum cascade laser and a 320x240 microbolometer focal-plane array ,” IEEE...responsivity, the speed of operation and the minimum detected incident power were measured using a quantum cascade laser (QCL), operating at 3.8 THz...of operation and the minimum detected incident power were measured using a quantum cascade laser (QCL), operating at 3.8 THz. The measured

Development of a real-time transport performance optimization methodology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gilyard, Glenn

1996-01-01

The practical application of real-time performance optimization is addressed (using a wide-body transport simulation) based on real-time measurements and calculation of incremental drag from forced response maneuvers. Various controller combinations can be envisioned although this study used symmetric outboard aileron and stabilizer. The approach is based on navigation instrumentation and other measurements found on state-of-the-art transports. This information is used to calculate winds and angle of attack. Thrust is estimated from a representative engine model as a function of measured variables. The lift and drag equations are then used to calculate lift and drag coefficients. An expression for drag coefficient, which is a function of parasite drag, induced drag, and aileron drag, is solved from forced excitation response data. Estimates of the parasite drag, curvature of the aileron drag variation, and minimum drag aileron position are produced. Minimum drag is then obtained by repositioning the symmetric aileron. Simulation results are also presented which evaluate the affects of measurement bias and resolution.

Establishing Minimum Flow Requirements Based on Benthic Vegetation: What are Some Issues Related to Identifying Quantity of Inflow and Tools Used to Quantify Ecosystem Response?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hunt, M. J.; Nuttle, W. K.; Cosby, B. J.; Marshall, F. E.

2005-05-01

Establishing minimum flow requirements in aquatic ecosystems is one way to stipulate controls on water withdrawals in a watershed. The basis of the determination is to identify the amount of flow needed to sustain a threshold ecological function. To develop minimum flow criteria an understanding of ecological response in relation to flow is essential. Several steps are needed including: (1) identification of important resources and ecological functions, (2) compilation of available information, (3) determination of historical conditions, (4) establishment of technical relationships between inflow and resources, and (5) identification of numeric criteria that reflect the threshold at which resources are harmed. The process is interdisciplinary requiring the integration of hydrologic and ecologic principles with quantitative assessments. The tools used quantify the ecological response and key questions related to how the quantity of flow influences the ecosystem are examined by comparing minimum flow determination in two different aquatic systems in South Florida. Each system is characterized by substantial hydrologic alteration. The first, the Caloosahatchee River is a riverine system, located on the southwest coast of Florida. The second, the Everglades- Florida Bay ecotone, is a wetland mangrove ecosystem, located on the southern tip of the Florida peninsula. In both cases freshwater submerged aquatic vegetation (Vallisneria americana or Ruppia maritima), located in areas of the saltwater- freshwater interface has been identified as a basis for minimum flow criteria. The integration of field studies, laboratory studies, and literature review was required. From this information we developed ecological modeling tools to quantify and predict plant growth in response to varying environmental variables. Coupled with hydrologic modeling tools questions relating to the quantity and timing of flow and ecological consequences in relation to normal variability are addressed.

Optimization of HTST process parameters for production of ready-to-eat potato-soy snack.

PubMed

Nath, A; Chattopadhyay, P K; Majumdar, G C

2012-08-01

Ready-to-eat (RTE) potato-soy snacks were developed using high temperature short time (HTST) air puffing process and the process was found to be very useful for production of highly porous and light texture snack. The process parameters considered viz. puffing temperature (185-255 °C) and puffing time (20-60 s) with constant initial moisture content of 36.74% and air velocity of 3.99 m.s(-1) for potato-soy blend with varying soy flour content from 5% to 25% were investigated using response surface methodology following central composite rotatable design (CCRD). The optimum product in terms of minimum moisture content (11.03% db), maximum expansion ratio (3.71), minimum hardness (2,749.4 g), minimum ascorbic acid loss (9.24% db) and maximum overall acceptability (7.35) were obtained with 10.0% soy flour blend in potato flour at the process conditions of puffing temperature (231.0 °C) and puffing time (25.0 s).

Preceding weak noise sharpens the frequency tuning and elevates the response threshold of the mouse inferior collicular neurons through GABAergic inhibition.

PubMed

Wang, Xin; Jen, Philip H-S; Wu, Fei-Jian; Chen, Qi-Cai

2007-09-05

In acoustic communication, animals must extract biologically relevant signals that are embedded in noisy environment. The present study examines how weak noise may affect the auditory sensitivity of neurons in the central nucleus of the mouse inferior colliculus (IC) which receives convergent excitatory and inhibitory inputs from both lower and higher auditory centers. Specifically, we studied the frequency sensitivity and minimum threshold of IC neurons using a pure tone probe and a weak white noise masker under forward masking paradigm. For most IC neurons, probe-elicited response was decreased by a weak white noise that was presented at a specific gap (i.e. time window). When presented within this time window, weak noise masking sharpened the frequency tuning curve and increased the minimum threshold of IC neurons. The degree of weak noise masking of these two measurements increased with noise duration. Sharpening of the frequency tuning curve and increasing of the minimum threshold of IC neurons during weak noise masking were mostly mediated through GABAergic inhibition. In addition, sharpening of frequency tuning curve by the weak noise masker was more effective at the high than at low frequency limb. These data indicate that in the real world the ambient noise may improve frequency sensitivity of IC neurons through GABAergic inhibition while inevitably decrease the frequency response range and sensitivity of IC neurons.

Dose-response association of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity with cardiovascular biomarkers and all-cause mortality: Considerations by individual sports, exercise and recreational physical activities.

PubMed

Loprinzi, Paul D

2015-12-01

Previous research demonstrates that moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) is associated with reduced all-cause mortality risk. Our understanding of whether individual physical activities are associated with all-cause mortality is less understood. Data from the 1999-2006 NHANES were employed, with follow-up through 2011. 48 different individual physical activities (e.g., swimming, running, bicycling) were assessed, and total MVPA MET-min-month was calculated based on their responses to these 48 individual physical activities. Greater engagement in MVPA was associated with more favorable cardiovascular biomarkers, particularly for men. Even after adjustment for total MVPA, different individual physical activities were associated with cardiovascular biomarkers across gender. When compared to those not meeting guidelines (0-1999 MVPA MET-min-month), a dose-response association between MVPA and mortality was observed, with those engaging in 5 times the guideline level having the lowest risk of all-cause mortality (45% reduced risk). There was no evidence of a harmful effect of very high MVPA (e.g., 20,000+ MVPA MET-min-month). Engaging in MVPA even below the minimum recommendation was associated with survival benefits, and the greatest survival effects occurred at a dose of approximately 5 times the minimum recommendation. Although very high levels (e.g., 10 times the minimum recommendation) of self-reported MVPA did not demonstrate the greatest survival effects, high levels of physical activity did not appear to have harmful effects. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The control gain region for synchronization in non-diffusively coupled complex networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gequn, Liu; Wenhui, Li; Huijie, Yang; Knowles, Gareth

2014-07-01

The control gain region for synchronization of non-diffusively coupled networks was studied with respect to three conditions: synchronization, synchronization in finite time, and synchronization in the minimum time. Based on cancellation control methodology and master stability function formalism, we found that a complete feasible control gain region may be bounded, unbounded, empty or a union of several bounded and unbounded regions, with a similar shape to the synchronized region. An interesting possibility emerged that a network could be synchronized by both negative and positive feedback control simultaneously. By bridging synchronizability and synchronizing response speeds with a settling time index, we have developed timed synchronized region (TSR) as a substitute for the classical synchronized region to study finite time synchronization. As for the last condition, a graphical method was developed to estimate control gain with the minimum synchronization time (CGMST). Each condition has examples provided for illustration and verification.

The effects of drainage basin geomorphometry on minimum low flow discharge: the study of small watershed in Kelang River Valley in Peninsular Malaysia.

PubMed

Yunus, Ahmad Jailani Muhamed; Nakagoshi, Nobukazu; Salleh, Khairulmaini Osman

2003-03-01

This study investigate the relationships between geomorphometric properties and the minimum low flow discharge of undisturbed drainage basins in the Taman Bukit Cahaya Seri Alam Forest Reserve, Peninsular Malaysia. The drainage basins selected were third-order basins so as to facilitate a common base for sampling and performing an unbiased statistical analyses. Three levels of relationships were observed in the study. Significant relationships existed between the geomorphometric properties as shown by the correlation network analysis; secondly, individual geomorphometric properties were observed to influence minimum flow discharge; and finally, the multiple regression model set up showed that minimum flow discharge (Q min) was dependent of basin area (AU), stream length (LS), maximum relief (Hmax), average relief (HAV) and stream frequency (SF). These findings further enforced other studies of this nature that drainage basins were dynamic and functional entities whose operations were governed by complex interrelationships occurring within the basins. Changes to any of the geomorphometric properties would influence their role as basin regulators thus influencing a change in basin response. In the case of the basin's minimum low flow, a change in any of the properties considered in the regression model influenced the "time to peak" of flow. A shorter time period would mean higher discharge, which is generally considered the prerequisite to flooding. This research also conclude that the role of geomorphometric properties to control the water supply within the stream through out the year even though during the drought and less precipitations months. Drainage basins are sensitive entities and any deteriorations involve will generate reciprocals and response to the water supply as well as the habitat within the areas.

12 CFR 366.12 - What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility? 366.12 Section 366.12 Banks and Banking FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION... § 366.12 What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility? (a) You and any person who...

12 CFR 366.12 - What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility? 366.12 Section 366.12 Banks and Banking FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION... § 366.12 What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility? (a) You and any person who...

12 CFR 366.12 - What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility? 366.12 Section 366.12 Banks and Banking FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION... § 366.12 What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility? (a) You and any person who...

12 CFR 366.12 - What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility? 366.12 Section 366.12 Banks and Banking FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION... § 366.12 What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility? (a) You and any person who...

12 CFR 366.12 - What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility? 366.12 Section 366.12 Banks and Banking FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION... § 366.12 What are the FDIC's minimum standards of ethical responsibility? (a) You and any person who...

Department of Defense Precise Time and Time Interval program improvement plan

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bowser, J. R.

1981-01-01

The United States Naval Observatory is responsible for ensuring uniformity in precise time and time interval operations including measurements, the establishment of overall DOD requirements for time and time interval, and the accomplishment of objectives requiring precise time and time interval with minimum cost. An overview of the objectives, the approach to the problem, the schedule, and a status report, including significant findings relative to organizational relationships, current directives, principal PTTI users, and future requirements as currently identified by the users are presented.

Evidence for impulsivity in the Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat drawn from complementary response-withholding tasks

PubMed Central

Sanabria, Federico; Killeen, Peter R

2008-01-01

Background The inability to inhibit reinforced responses is a defining feature of ADHD associated with impulsivity. The Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat (SHR) has been extolled as an animal model of ADHD, but there is no clear experimental evidence of inhibition deficits in SHR. Attempts to demonstrate these deficits may have suffered from methodological and analytical limitations. Methods We provide a rationale for using two complementary response-withholding tasks to doubly dissociate impulsivity from motivational and motor processes. In the lever-holding task (LHT), continual lever depression was required for a minimum interval. Under a differential reinforcement of low rates schedule (DRL), a minimum interval was required between lever presses. Both tasks were studied using SHR and two normotensive control strains, Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) and Long Evans (LE), over an overlapping range of intervals (1 – 5 s for LHT and 5 – 60 s for DRL). Lever-holding and DRL performance was characterized as the output of a mixture of two processes, timing and iterative random responding; we call this account of response inhibition the Temporal Regulation (TR) model. In the context of TR, impulsivity was defined as a bias toward premature termination of the timed intervals. Results The TR model provided an accurate description of LHT and DRL performance. On the basis of TR parameter estimates, SHRs were more impulsive than LE rats across tasks and target times. WKY rats produced substantially shorter timed responses in the lever-holding task than in DRL, suggesting a motivational or motor deficit. The precision of timing by SHR, as measured by the variance of their timed intervals, was excellent, flouting expectations from ADHD research. Conclusion This research validates the TR model of response inhibition and supports SHR as an animal model of ADHD-related impulsivity. It indicates, however, that SHR's impulse-control deficit is not caused by imprecise timing. The use of ad hoc impulsivity metrics and of WKY as control strain for SHR impulsivity are called into question. PMID:18261220

Thermoluminescence response of flat optical fiber subjected to 9 MeV electron irradiations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hashim, S.; Omar, S. S. Che; Ibrahim, S. A.; Hassan, W. M. S. Wan; Ung, N. M.; Mahdiraji, G. A.; Bradley, D. A.; Alzimami, K.

2015-01-01

We describe the efforts of finding a new thermoluminescent (TL) media using pure silica flat optical fiber (FF). The present study investigates the dose response, sensitivity, minimum detectable dose and glow curve of FF subjected to 9 MeV electron irradiations with various dose ranges from 0 Gy to 2.5 Gy. The above-mentioned TL properties of the FF are compared with commercially available TLD-100 rods. The TL measurements of the TL media exhibit a linear dose response over the delivered dose using a linear accelerator. We found that the sensitivity of TLD-100 is markedly 6 times greater than that of FF optical fiber. The minimum detectable dose was found to be 0.09 mGy for TLD-100 and 8.22 mGy for FF. Our work may contribute towards the development of a new dosimeter for personal monitoring purposes.

Analysis of randomly time varying systems by gaussian closure technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dash, P. K.; Iyengar, R. N.

1982-07-01

The Gaussian probability closure technique is applied to study the random response of multidegree of freedom stochastically time varying systems under non-Gaussian excitations. Under the assumption that the response, the coefficient and the excitation processes are jointly Gaussian, deterministic equations are derived for the first two response moments. It is further shown that this technique leads to the best Gaussian estimate in a minimum mean square error sense. An example problem is solved which demonstrates the capability of this technique for handling non-linearity, stochastic system parameters and amplitude limited responses in a unified manner. Numerical results obtained through the Gaussian closure technique compare well with the exact solutions.

Demonstration of a Wingless Electromagnetic Air Vehicle

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-12-20

moving parts and assures near instantaneous response time. For the first time, the aircraft structure, propulsion, energy production and storage, and...of an electromagnetically driven wingless aircraft * with no moving component that will be able to self- lift, hover and fly reliably especially...8217&)?$@&;! First successful lift-off using plasma propulsion. Main Achievement Aerogel actuators are thus far the lightest plasma actuators with minimum

Tracking of climatic niche boundaries under recent climate change.

PubMed

La Sorte, Frank A; Jetz, Walter

2012-07-01

1. Global climate has changed significantly during the past 30 years and especially in northern temperate regions which have experienced poleward shifts in temperature regimes. While there is evidence that some species have responded by moving their distributions to higher latitudes, the efficiency of this response in tracking species' climatic niche boundaries over time has yet to be addressed. 2. Here, we provide a continental assessment of the temporal structure of species responses to recent spatial shifts in climatic conditions. We examined geographic associations with minimum winter temperature for 59 species of winter avifauna at 476 Christmas Bird Count circles in North America from 1975 to 2009 under three sampling schemes that account for spatial and temporal sampling effects. 3. Minimum winter temperature associated with species occurrences showed an overall increase with a weakening trend after 1998. Species displayed highly variable responses that, on average and across sampling schemes, contained a strong lag effect that weakened in strength over time. In general, the conservation of minimum winter temperature was relevant when all species were considered together but only after an initial lag period (c. 35 years) was overcome. The delayed niche tracking observed at the combined species level was likely supported by the post1998 lull in the warming trend. 4. There are limited geographic and ecological explanations for the observed variability, suggesting that the efficiency of species' responses under climate change is likely to be highly idiosyncratic and difficult to predict. This outcome is likely to be even more pronounced and time lags more persistent for less vagile taxa, particularly during the periods of consistent or accelerating warming. Current modelling efforts and conservation strategies need to better appreciate the variation, strength and duration of lag effects and their association with climatic variability. Conservation strategies in particular will benefit through identifying and maintaining dispersal corridors that accommodate diverging dispersal strategies and timetables. © 2012 The Authors. Journal of Animal Ecology © 2012 British Ecological Society.

Leisure-time physical activity dose-response effects on obesity among US adults: results from the 1999-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

PubMed

Seo, Dong-Chul; Li, Kaigang

2010-05-01

It is not well established whether total volume of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) has dose-response effects on obesity. The dose-response relationship was examined using 12 227 non-institutionalised individuals, aged 20-64 years, drawn from the 8 years (1999-2006) of the continuous National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), a nationally representative sample of the US population. The age-adjusted prevalence of women's obesity was 41.4% for those with no LTPA in the past month; 39.1% for those who engaged in LTPA but fell short of the recommended minimum amount of LTPA (ie, <450 metabolic equivalent minutes per week (MET min/week)); 31.0% for those who met the recommended minimum guideline (ie, 450 to < 750); 28.0% for those whose LTPA exceeded the minimum guideline but less than the first quartile among the overachievers (ie, 750 to <1260); 23.4% for the overachievers between the first and third quartile (ie, 1260 to <3556); and 19.5% for the overachievers at or above the third quartile (ie, 3556 MET min/week or above). This association was maintained even after occupational physical activity (OPA) was controlled. However, this pattern was not observed for Mexican and black adults and showed a floor effect as LTPA increased. There is a crude graded inverse dose-response relationship between total volume of LTPA and obesity in US adult women, but not in men. Gender and racial/ethnic differences exist in the relationship of accumulated LTPA with obesity due, in part, to differential ratios of LTPA to OPA.

Effects of Five Nights under Normobaric Hypoxia on Sleep Quality.

PubMed

Hoshikawa, Masako; Uchida, Sunao; Osawa, Takuya; Eguchi, Kazumi; Arimitsu, Takuma; Suzuki, Yasuhiro; Kawahara, Takashi

2015-07-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of five nights' sleep under normobaric hypoxia on ventilatory acclimatization and sleep quality. Seven men initially slept for six nights under normoxia and then for five nights under normobaric hypoxia equivalent to a 2000-m altitude. Nocturnal polysomnograms (PSGs), arterial blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), and respiratory events were recorded on the first and fifth nights under both conditions. The hypoxic ventilatory response (HVR), hypercapnic ventilatory response (HCVR), and resting end-tidal CO2 (resting PETCO2) were measured three times during the experimental period. The duration of slow-wave sleep (SWS: stage N3) and the whole-night delta (1-3 Hz) power of nonrapid eye movement (NREM) sleep EEG decreased on the first night under hypoxia. This hypoxia-induced sleep quality deterioration on the first night was accompanied by a lower mean and minimum SpO2, a longer time spent with SpO2 below 90% (<90% SpO2 time), and more episodes of respiratory disturbance. On the fifth night, the SWS duration and whole-night delta power did not differ between the conditions. Although the mean SpO2 under hypoxia was still lower than under normoxia, the minimum SpO2 increased, and the <90% SpO2 time and number of episodes of respiratory disturbance decreased during the five nights under hypoxia. The HVR increased and resting PETCO2 decreased after five nights under hypoxia. The results suggest that five nights under hypoxia improves the sleep quality. This may be derived from improvements of respiratory disturbances, the minimum SpO2, and <90% SpO2 time.

Development of minimum standards for event-based data collection loggers and performance measure definitions for signalized intersections [summary].

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2017-01-01

New traffic signal controllers, which have advanced data collection abilities, offer better information about the response of traffic signal timings to traffic flows. However, traffic engineers need more than raw data. The controllers must be set up ...

75 FR 20627 - Biweekly Notice: Applications and Amendments to Facility Operating Licenses Involving No...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-20

... designed, on an RAS. Basis for proposed no significant hazards consideration determination: As required by...], Time Response Design Criteria for Safety- Related Operator Actions, 1984 guidance. Although the change... changes to the RAS Allowable Values and RWT minimum required level on the RWT structural design...

Basilar-membrane responses to broadband noise modeled using linear filters with rational transfer functions.

PubMed

Recio-Spinoso, Alberto; Fan, Yun-Hui; Ruggero, Mario A

2011-05-01

Basilar-membrane responses to white Gaussian noise were recorded using laser velocimetry at basal sites of the chinchilla cochlea with characteristic frequencies near 10 kHz and first-order Wiener kernels were computed by cross correlation of the stimuli and the responses. The presence or absence of minimum-phase behavior was explored by fitting the kernels with discrete linear filters with rational transfer functions. Excellent fits to the kernels were obtained with filters with transfer functions including zeroes located outside the unit circle, implying nonminimum-phase behavior. These filters accurately predicted basilar-membrane responses to other noise stimuli presented at the same level as the stimulus for the kernel computation. Fits with all-pole and other minimum-phase discrete filters were inferior to fits with nonminimum-phase filters. Minimum-phase functions predicted from the amplitude functions of the Wiener kernels by Hilbert transforms were different from the measured phase curves. These results, which suggest that basilar-membrane responses do not have the minimum-phase property, challenge the validity of models of cochlear processing, which incorporate minimum-phase behavior. © 2011 IEEE

Experimental evidence for real-time song frequency shift in response to urban noise in a passerine bird.

PubMed

Bermúdez-Cuamatzin, Eira; Ríos-Chelén, Alejandro A; Gil, Diego; Garcia, Constantino Macías

2011-02-23

Research has shown that bird songs are modified in different ways to deal with urban noise and promote signal transmission through noisy environments. Urban noise is composed of low frequencies, thus the observation that songs have a higher minimum frequency in noisy places suggests this is a way of avoiding noise masking. Most studies are correlative and there is as yet little experimental evidence that this is a short-term mechanism owing to individual plasticity. Here we experimentally test if house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus) can modulate the minimum frequency of their songs in response to different noise levels. We exposed singing males to three continuous treatments: low-high-low noise levels. We found a significant increase in minimum frequency from low to high and a decrement from high to low treatments. We also found that this was mostly achieved by modifying the frequency of the same low-frequency syllable types used in the different treatments. When different low-frequency syllables were used, those sung during the noisy condition were longer than the ones sang during the quiet condition. We conclude that house finches modify their songs in several ways in response to urban noise, thus providing evidence of a short-term acoustic adaptation.

Rheometry of natural sediment slurries

USGS Publications Warehouse

Major, Jon J.; ,

1993-01-01

Recent experimental analyses of natural sediment slurries yield diverse results yet exhibit broad commonality of rheological responses under a range of conditions and shear rates. Results show that the relation between shear stress and shear rate is primarily nonlinear, that the relation can display marked hysteresis, that minimum shear stress can occur following yield, that physical properties of slurries are extremely sensitive to sediment concentration, and the concept of slurry yield strength is still debated. New rheometric analyses have probed viscoelastic behavior of sediment slurries. Results show that slurries composed of particles ??? 125 ?? m exhibit viscoelastic responses, and that shear stresses are relaxed over a range of time scales rather than by a single response time.

The calibration of photographic and spectroscopic films: Reciprocity failure and thermal responses of IIaO film at liquid nitrogen temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hammond, E. C., Jr.; Peters, K. A.; Gunther, S. O.; Cunningham, L. M.; Wright, D. D.

1985-01-01

Reciprocity failure was examined for IIaO spectroscopic film. The results indicate reciprocity failure occurs at three distinct minimum points in time; 15 min, 30 min and 90 min. The results are unique because theory suggests only one minimum reciprocity failure point should occur. When incubating 70mm IIaO film for 15 and 30 min at temperatures of 30, 40, 50, and 60 C and then placing in a liquid nitrogen bath at a temperature of -190 C the film demonstrated an increase of the optical density when developed at a warm-up time of 30 min. Longer warm-up periods of 1, 2 and 3 hrs yield a decrease in optical density of the darker wedge patterns; whereas, shorter warm-up times yield an overall increase in the optical densities.

Monitoring microbial responses to ocean deoxygenation in a model oxygen minimum zone.

PubMed

Hallam, Steven J; Torres-Beltrán, Mónica; Hawley, Alyse K

2017-10-31

Today in Scientific Data, two compendia of geochemical and multi-omic sequence information (DNA, RNA, protein) generated over almost a decade of time series monitoring in a seasonally anoxic coastal marine setting are presented to the scientific community. These data descriptors introduce a model ecosystem for the study of microbial responses to ocean deoxygenation, a phenotype that is currently expanding due to climate change. Public access to this time series information is intended to promote scientific collaborations and the generation of new hypotheses relevant to microbial ecology, biogeochemistry and global change issues.

Static inverter with synchronous output waveform synthesized by time-optimal-response feedback

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kernick, A.; Stechschulte, D. L.; Shireman, D. W.

1976-01-01

Time-optimal-response 'bang-bang' or 'bang-hang' technique, using four feedback control loops, synthesizes static-inverter sinusoidal output waveform by self-oscillatory but yet synchronous pulse-frequency-modulation (SPFM). A single modular power stage per phase of ac output entails the minimum of circuit complexity while providing by feedback synthesis individual phase voltage regulation, phase position control and inherent compensation simultaneously for line and load disturbances. Clipped sinewave performance is described under off-limit load or input voltage conditions. Also, approaches to high power levels, 3-phase arraying and parallel modular connection are given.

Thermodynamic geometry of minimum-dissipation driven barrier crossing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sivak, David A.; Crooks, Gavin E.

2016-11-01

We explore the thermodynamic geometry of a simple system that models the bistable dynamics of nucleic acid hairpins in single molecule force-extension experiments. Near equilibrium, optimal (minimum-dissipation) driving protocols are governed by a generalized linear response friction coefficient. Our analysis demonstrates that the friction coefficient of the driving protocols is sharply peaked at the interface between metastable regions, which leads to minimum-dissipation protocols that drive rapidly within a metastable basin, but then linger longest at the interface, giving thermal fluctuations maximal time to kick the system over the barrier. Intuitively, the same principle applies generically in free energy estimation (both in steered molecular dynamics simulations and in single-molecule experiments), provides a design principle for the construction of thermodynamically efficient coupling between stochastic objects, and makes a prediction regarding the construction of evolved biomolecular motors.

Thermodynamic geometry of minimum-dissipation driven barrier crossing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sivak, David; Crooks, Gavin

We explore the thermodynamic geometry of a simple system that models the bistable dynamics of nucleic acid hairpins in single molecule force-extension experiments. Near equilibrium, optimal (minimum-dissipation) driving protocols are governed by a generalized linear response friction coefficient. Our analysis demonstrates that the friction coefficient of the driving protocols is sharply peaked at the interface between metastable regions, which leads to minimum-dissipation protocols that drive rapidly within a metastable basin, but then linger longest at the interface, giving thermal fluctuations maximal time to kick the system over the barrier. Intuitively, the same principle applies generically in free energy estimation (both in steered molecular dynamics simulations and in single-molecule experiments), provides a design principle for the construction of thermodynamically efficient coupling between stochastic objects, and makes a prediction regarding the construction of evolved biomolecular motors.

Resource conflict detection and removal strategy for nondeterministic emergency response processes using Petri nets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, Qingtian; Liu, Cong; Duan, Hua

2016-09-01

Correctness of an emergency response process specification is critical to emergency mission success. Therefore, errors in the specification should be detected and corrected at build-time. In this paper, we propose a resource conflict detection approach and removal strategy for emergency response processes constrained by resources and time. In this kind of emergency response process, there are two timing functions representing the minimum and maximum execution time for each activity, respectively, and many activities require resources to be executed. Based on the RT_ERP_Net, the earliest time to start each activity and the ideal execution time of the process can be obtained. To detect and remove the resource conflicts in the process, the conflict detection algorithms and a priority-activity-first resolution strategy are given. In this way, real execution time for each activity is obtained and a conflict-free RT_ERP_Net is constructed by adding virtual activities. By experiments, it is proved that the resolution strategy proposed can shorten the execution time of the whole process to a great degree.

Thermosphere Response to Geomagnetic Variability during Solar Minimum Conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Forbes, Jeffrey; Gasperini, Federico; Zhang, Xiaoli; Doornbos, Eelco; Bruinsma, Sean; Haeusler, Kathrin; Hagan, Maura

2015-04-01

The response of thermosphere mass density to variable geomagnetic activity at solar minimum is revealed as a function of height utilizing accelerometer data from GRACE near 480 km, CHAMP near 320 km, and GOCE near 260 km during the period October-December, 2009. The GOCE data at 260 km, and to some degree the CHAMP measurements at 320 km, reveal the interesting feature that the response maximum occurs at low latitudes, rather than at high latitudes where the geomagnetic energy input is presumed to be deposited. The latitude distribution of the response is opposite to what one might expect based on thermal expansion and/or increase in mean molecular weight due to vertical transport of N2 at high latitudes. We speculate that what is observed reflects the consequences of an equatorward meridional circulation with downward motion and compressional heating at low latitudes. A numerical simulation using the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) Thermosphere-Ionosphere-Mesosphere Electrodynamics General Circulation Model (TIME-GCM) is used to assist with this diagnosis. At 480 km GRACE reveals maximum density responses at high southern (winter) latitudes, consistent with recent interpretations in terms of compositional versus temperature effects near the oxygen-helium transition altitude during low solar activity.

On the timing performance of thin planar silicon sensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akchurin, N.; Ciriolo, V.; Currás, E.; Damgov, J.; Fernández, M.; Gallrapp, C.; Gray, L.; Junkes, A.; Mannelli, M.; Martin Kwok, K. H.; Meridiani, P.; Moll, M.; Nourbakhsh, S.; Pigazzini, S.; Scharf, C.; Silva, P.; Steinbrueck, G.; de Fatis, T. Tabarelli; Vila, I.

2017-07-01

We report on the signal timing capabilities of thin silicon sensors when traversed by multiple simultaneous minimum ionizing particles (MIP). Three different planar sensors, with depletion thicknesses 133, 211, and 285 μm, have been exposed to high energy muons and electrons at CERN. We describe signal shape and timing resolution measurements as well as the response of these devices as a function of the multiplicity of MIPs. We compare these measurements to simulations where possible. We achieve better than 20 ps timing resolution for signals larger than a few tens of MIPs.

Optimality and oscillations near the edge of stability in the dynamics of autonomous vehicle platoons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davis, L. C.

2013-09-01

A model that includes the mechanical response of a vehicle to a demanded change in acceleration is analyzed to determine the string stability of a platoon of autonomous vehicles. The response is characterized by a first-order time constant τ and an explicit delay td. The minimum value of the acceleration feedback control gain is found from calculations of the velocity of vehicles following a lead vehicle that decelerates sharply from high speed to low speed. Larger values of ξ (in the stable range) give larger values of deceleration for vehicles in the platoon. Optimal operation is attained close to the minimum value of ξ for stability. Small oscillations are found after the main peak in deceleration for ξ in the stable region but near the transition to instability. A theory for predicting the frequency and amplitude of the oscillations is presented.

Minimum time and fuel flight profiles for an F-15 airplane with a Highly Integrated Digital Electronic Control (HIDEC) system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haering, E. A., Jr.; Burcham, F. W., Jr.

1984-01-01

A simulation study was conducted to optimize minimum time and fuel consumption paths for an F-15 airplane powered by two F100 Engine Model Derivative (EMD) engines. The benefits of using variable stall margin (uptrim) to increase performance were also determined. This study supports the NASA Highly Integrated Digital Electronic Control (HIDEC) program. The basis for this comparison was minimum time and fuel used to reach Mach 2 at 13,716 m (45,000 ft) from the initial conditions of Mach 0.15 at 1524 m (5000 ft). Results were also compared to a pilot's estimated minimum time and fuel trajectory determined from the F-15 flight manual and previous experience. The minimum time trajectory took 15 percent less time than the pilot's estimate for the standard EMD engines, while the minimum fuel trajectory used 1 percent less fuel than the pilot's estimate for the minimum fuel trajectory. The F-15 airplane with EMD engines and uptrim, was 23 percent faster than the pilot's estimate. The minimum fuel used was 5 percent less than the estimate.

Natural migration rates of trees: Global terrestrial carbon cycle implications. Book chapter

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

Solomon, A.M.

The paper discusses the forest-ecological processes which constrain the rate of response by forests to rapid future environmental change. It establishes a minimum response time by natural tree populations which invade alien landscapes and reach the status of a mature, closed canopy forest when maximum carbon storage is realized. It considers rare long-distance and frequent short-distance seed transport, seedling and tree establishment, sequential tree and stand maturation, and spread between newly established colonies.

A helicopter handling-qualities study of the effects of engine response characteristics, height-control dynamics, and excess power on nap-of-the-Earth operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Corliss, L. D.

1982-01-01

The helicopter configuration with an rpm-governed gas-turbine engine was examined. A wide range of engine response time, vehicle damping and sensitivity, and excess power levels was studied. The data are compared with the existing handling-qualities specifications, MIL-F-83300 and AGARD 577, and in general show a need for higher minimums when performing such NOE maneuvers as a dolphin and bob-up task.

Consumer Specialty Products Association Letter and EPA Response re: Minimum Risk Pesticide Exemption Petition

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

The Consumer Specialty Products Association petitioned EPA to exclude from the minimum risk pesticide exemption pesticides claiming to control “pests of significant public health importance” and require registration. View the petition and EPA's response.

MEG source imaging method using fast L1 minimum-norm and its applications to signals with brain noise and human resting-state source amplitude images.

PubMed

Huang, Ming-Xiong; Huang, Charles W; Robb, Ashley; Angeles, AnneMarie; Nichols, Sharon L; Baker, Dewleen G; Song, Tao; Harrington, Deborah L; Theilmann, Rebecca J; Srinivasan, Ramesh; Heister, David; Diwakar, Mithun; Canive, Jose M; Edgar, J Christopher; Chen, Yu-Han; Ji, Zhengwei; Shen, Max; El-Gabalawy, Fady; Levy, Michael; McLay, Robert; Webb-Murphy, Jennifer; Liu, Thomas T; Drake, Angela; Lee, Roland R

2014-01-01

The present study developed a fast MEG source imaging technique based on Fast Vector-based Spatio-Temporal Analysis using a L1-minimum-norm (Fast-VESTAL) and then used the method to obtain the source amplitude images of resting-state magnetoencephalography (MEG) signals for different frequency bands. The Fast-VESTAL technique consists of two steps. First, L1-minimum-norm MEG source images were obtained for the dominant spatial modes of sensor-waveform covariance matrix. Next, accurate source time-courses with millisecond temporal resolution were obtained using an inverse operator constructed from the spatial source images of Step 1. Using simulations, Fast-VESTAL's performance was assessed for its 1) ability to localize multiple correlated sources; 2) ability to faithfully recover source time-courses; 3) robustness to different SNR conditions including SNR with negative dB levels; 4) capability to handle correlated brain noise; and 5) statistical maps of MEG source images. An objective pre-whitening method was also developed and integrated with Fast-VESTAL to remove correlated brain noise. Fast-VESTAL's performance was then examined in the analysis of human median-nerve MEG responses. The results demonstrated that this method easily distinguished sources in the entire somatosensory network. Next, Fast-VESTAL was applied to obtain the first whole-head MEG source-amplitude images from resting-state signals in 41 healthy control subjects, for all standard frequency bands. Comparisons between resting-state MEG sources images and known neurophysiology were provided. Additionally, in simulations and cases with MEG human responses, the results obtained from using conventional beamformer technique were compared with those from Fast-VESTAL, which highlighted the beamformer's problems of signal leaking and distorted source time-courses. © 2013.

MEG Source Imaging Method using Fast L1 Minimum-norm and its Applications to Signals with Brain Noise and Human Resting-state Source Amplitude Images

PubMed Central

Huang, Ming-Xiong; Huang, Charles W.; Robb, Ashley; Angeles, AnneMarie; Nichols, Sharon L.; Baker, Dewleen G.; Song, Tao; Harrington, Deborah L.; Theilmann, Rebecca J.; Srinivasan, Ramesh; Heister, David; Diwakar, Mithun; Canive, Jose M.; Edgar, J. Christopher; Chen, Yu-Han; Ji, Zhengwei; Shen, Max; El-Gabalawy, Fady; Levy, Michael; McLay, Robert; Webb-Murphy, Jennifer; Liu, Thomas T.; Drake, Angela; Lee, Roland R.

2014-01-01

The present study developed a fast MEG source imaging technique based on Fast Vector-based Spatio-Temporal Analysis using a L1-minimum-norm (Fast-VESTAL) and then used the method to obtain the source amplitude images of resting-state magnetoencephalography (MEG) signals for different frequency bands. The Fast-VESTAL technique consists of two steps. First, L1-minimum-norm MEG source images were obtained for the dominant spatial modes of sensor-waveform covariance matrix. Next, accurate source time-courses with millisecond temporal resolution were obtained using an inverse operator constructed from the spatial source images of Step 1. Using simulations, Fast-VESTAL’s performance of was assessed for its 1) ability to localize multiple correlated sources; 2) ability to faithfully recover source time-courses; 3) robustness to different SNR conditions including SNR with negative dB levels; 4) capability to handle correlated brain noise; and 5) statistical maps of MEG source images. An objective pre-whitening method was also developed and integrated with Fast-VESTAL to remove correlated brain noise. Fast-VESTAL’s performance was then examined in the analysis of human mediannerve MEG responses. The results demonstrated that this method easily distinguished sources in the entire somatosensory network. Next, Fast-VESTAL was applied to obtain the first whole-head MEG source-amplitude images from resting-state signals in 41 healthy control subjects, for all standard frequency bands. Comparisons between resting-state MEG sources images and known neurophysiology were provided. Additionally, in simulations and cases with MEG human responses, the results obtained from using conventional beamformer technique were compared with those from Fast-VESTAL, which highlighted the beamformer’s problems of signal leaking and distorted source time-courses. PMID:24055704

Shared responsibility for employers regarding health coverage. Final regulations.

PubMed

2014-02-12

This document contains final regulations providing guidance to employers that are subject to the shared responsibility provisions regarding employee health coverage under section 4980H of the Internal Revenue Code (Code), enacted by the Affordable Care Act. These regulations affect employers referred to as applicable large employers (generally meaning, for each year, employers that had 50 or more full-time employees, including full-time equivalent employees, during the prior year). Generally, under section 4980H an applicable large employer that, for a calendar month, fails to offer to its full-time employees health coverage that is affordable and provides minimum value may be subject to an assessable payment if a full-time employee enrolls for that month in a qualified health plan for which the employee receives a premium tax credit.

Testing of the anemometer circuit: Data report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moen, Michael J.

1992-01-01

The following text discusses results from the electronic step testing and the beginning of velocity step testing in the shock tube. It should be kept in mind that frequency response is always measured as the time from the beginning of the event to the minimum (positive inflection) of the 'bucket' that immediately follows the response. This report is not a complete account of the results from square wave testing. Some data is still in the process of being analyzed and efforts are being made to fit the data to both Freymuth's third order theory and modelled responses from SPICE circuit simulation software.

Response of discrete linear systems to forcing functions with inequality constraints.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Michalopoulos, C. D.; Riley, T. A.

1972-01-01

An analysis is made of the maximum response of discrete, linear mechanical systems to arbitrary forcing functions which lie within specified bounds. Primary attention is focused on the complete determination of the forcing function which will engender maximum displacement to any particular mass element of a multi-degree-of-freedom system. In general, the desired forcing function is found to be a bang-bang type function, i.e., a function which switches from the maximum to the minimum bound and vice-versa at certain instants of time. Examples of two-degree-of-freedom systems, with and without damping, are presented in detail. Conclusions are drawn concerning the effect of damping on the switching times and the general procedure for finding these times is discussed.

Physiological and Molecular Response of Prorocentrum minimum to Tannic Acid: An Experimental Study to Evaluate the Feasibility of Using Tannic Acid in Controling the Red Tide in a Eutrophic Coastal Water.

PubMed

Jeong, Byungkwan; Jeong, Eui-Suk; Malazarte, Jacqueline Martha; Sin, Yongsik

2016-05-14

Bioassay and gene expression experiments were conducted in order to evaluate the growth and physiology of Prorocentrum minimum isolated from a eutrophic coastal water in response to tannic acid. In the bioassay experiments, variations in abundance, chlorophyll (chl) a concentration, maximum fluorescence (in vivo Fm), and photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm) were measured over the course of a seven-day incubation. Moreover, stress-related gene expression in both the control and an experimental (2.5 ppm TA treatment) group was observed for 24 h and 48 h. The molecular markers used in this study were the heat shock proteins (Hsp70 and Hsp90) and cyclophilin (CYP). The findings show that P. minimum can thrive and grow at low concentrations (<2.5 ppm) of tannic acid, and, above this concentration, cells begin to slow down development. In addition, TA concentration of 10 ppm halted photosynthetic activity. At the molecular level, treatment with tannic acid increased the expression of Hsp70, Hsp90, and CYP, and heat shock proteins are more upregulated than the cyclophilin gene. Exposure to tannic acid increased the expression of stress factors over time (48 h) by 10- to 27-fold the expression level of the control group. These results suggest that tannic acid can be used to control harmful algal blooms such as those containing P. minimum in eutrophic coastal waters.

SB certification handout material requirements, test methods, responsibilities, and minimum classification levels for mixture-based specification for flexible base.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-10-01

A handout with tables representing the material requirements, test methods, responsibilities, and minimum classification levels mixture-based specification for flexible base and details on aggregate and test methods employed, along with agency and co...

Analyzing a bioterror attack on the food supply: the case of botulinum toxin in milk.

PubMed

Wein, Lawrence M; Liu, Yifan

2005-07-12

We developed a mathematical model of a cows-to-consumers supply chain associated with a single milk-processing facility that is the victim of a deliberate release of botulinum toxin. Because centralized storage and processing lead to substantial dilution of the toxin, a minimum amount of toxin is required for the release to do damage. Irreducible uncertainties regarding the dose-response curve prevent us from quantifying the minimum effective release. However, if terrorists can obtain enough toxin, and this may well be possible, then rapid distribution and consumption result in several hundred thousand poisoned individuals if detection from early symptomatics is not timely. Timely and specific in-process testing has the potential to eliminate the threat of this scenario at a cost of <1 cent per gallon and should be pursued aggressively. Investigation of improving the toxin inactivation rate of heat pasteurization without sacrificing taste or nutrition is warranted.

33 CFR 154.1130 - Requirements for prepositioned response equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... Additional Response Plan Requirements for a Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act (TAPAA) Facility...: (a) On-water recovery equipment with a minimum effective daily recovery rate of 30,000 barrels... of a discharge. (c) On-water recovery equipment with a minimum effective daily recovery rate of 40...

33 CFR 154.1130 - Requirements for prepositioned response equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... Additional Response Plan Requirements for a Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act (TAPAA) Facility...: (a) On-water recovery equipment with a minimum effective daily recovery rate of 30,000 barrels... of a discharge. (c) On-water recovery equipment with a minimum effective daily recovery rate of 40...

33 CFR 154.1130 - Requirements for prepositioned response equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... Additional Response Plan Requirements for a Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act (TAPAA) Facility...: (a) On-water recovery equipment with a minimum effective daily recovery rate of 30,000 barrels... of a discharge. (c) On-water recovery equipment with a minimum effective daily recovery rate of 40...

33 CFR 154.1130 - Requirements for prepositioned response equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... Additional Response Plan Requirements for a Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act (TAPAA) Facility...: (a) On-water recovery equipment with a minimum effective daily recovery rate of 30,000 barrels... of a discharge. (c) On-water recovery equipment with a minimum effective daily recovery rate of 40...

Fast-timing Capabilities of Silicon Sensors for the CMS High-Granularity Calorimeter at the High-Luminosity LHC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akchurin, Nural; CMS Collaboration

2017-11-01

We report on the signal timing capabilities of thin silicon sensors when traversed by multiple simultaneous minimum ionizing particles (MIP). Three different planar sensors, 133, 211, and 285 μm thick in depletion thickness, have been exposed to high energy muons and electrons at CERN. We describe signal shape and timing resolution measurements as well as the response of these devices as a function of the multiplicity of MIPs. We compare these measurements to simulations where possible. We achieve better than 20 ps timing resolution for signals larger than a few tens of MIPs.

Annual plants change in size over a century of observations.

PubMed

Leger, Elizabeth A

2013-07-01

Studies have documented changes in animal body sizes over the last century, but very little is known about changes in plant sizes, even though reduced plant productivity is potentially responsible for declines in size of other organisms. Here, I ask whether warming trends in the Great Basin have affected plant size by measuring specimens preserved on herbarium sheets collected between 1893 and 2011. I asked how maximum and minimum temperatures, precipitation, and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) in the year of collection affected plant height, leaf size, and flower number, and asked whether changes in climate resulted in decreasing sizes for seven annual forbs. Species had contrasting responses to climate factors, and would not necessarily be expected to respond in parallel to climatic shifts. There were generally positive relationships between plant size and increased minimum and maximum temperatures, which would have been predicted to lead to small increases in plant sizes over the observation period. While one species increased in size and flower number over the observation period, five of the seven species decreased in plant height, four of these decreased in leaf size, and one species also decreased in flower production. One species showed no change. The mechanisms behind these size changes are unknown, and the limited data available on these species (germination timing, area of occupancy, relative abundance) did not explain why some species shrank while others grew or did not change in size over time. These results show that multiple annual forbs are decreasing in size, but that even within the same functional group, species may have contrasting responses to similar environmental stimuli. Changes in plant size could have cascading effects on other members of these communities, and differential responses to directional change may change the composition of plant communities over time. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

USING RESPONSES OF OYSTERS IN ESTABLISHING MINIMUM FLOWS AND LEVELS IN THE CALOOSAHATCHEE ESTUARY, FLORIDA

EPA Science Inventory

Volety, Aswani K., S. Gregory Tolley and James T. Winstead. 2002. Using Responses of Oysters in Establishing Minimum Flows and Levels in the Caloosahatchee Estuary, Florida (Abstract). Presented at the 6th International Conference on Shellfish Restoration, 20-24 November 2002, Ch...

Higher songs of city birds may not be an individual response to noise.

PubMed

Zollinger, Sue Anne; Slater, Peter J B; Nemeth, Erwin; Brumm, Henrik

2017-08-16

It has been observed in many songbird species that populations in noisy urban areas sing with a higher minimum frequency than do matched populations in quieter, less developed areas. However, why and how this divergence occurs is not yet understood. We experimentally tested whether chronic noise exposure during vocal learning results in songs with higher minimum frequencies in great tits ( Parus major ), the first species for which a correlation between anthropogenic noise and song frequency was observed. We also tested vocal plasticity of adult great tits in response to changing background noise levels by measuring song frequency and amplitude as we changed noise conditions. We show that noise exposure during ontogeny did not result in songs with higher minimum frequencies. In addition, we found that adult birds did not make any frequency or song usage adjustments when their background noise conditions were changed after song crystallization. These results challenge the common view of vocal adjustments by city birds, as they suggest that either noise itself is not the causal force driving the divergence of song frequency between urban and forest populations, or that noise induces population-wide changes over a time scale of several generations rather than causing changes in individual behaviour. © 2017 The Author(s).

Exposure to Large-Scale Social and Behavior Change Communication Interventions Is Associated with Improvements in Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices in Ethiopia

PubMed Central

Rawat, Rahul; Mwangi, Edina M.; Tesfaye, Roman; Abebe, Yewelsew; Baker, Jean; Frongillo, Edward A.; Ruel, Marie T.; Menon, Purnima

2016-01-01

Optimal breastfeeding (BF) practices in Ethiopia are far below the government’s targets, and complementary feeding practices are poor. The Alive & Thrive initiative aimed to improve infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices through large-scale implementation of social and behavior change communication interventions in four regions of Ethiopia. The study assessed the effects of the interventions on IYCF practices and anthropometry over time in two regions–Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region and Tigray. A pre- and post-intervention adequacy evaluation design was used; repeated cross-sectional surveys of households with children aged 0–23.9 mo (n = 1481 and n = 1494) and with children aged 24–59.9 mo (n = 1481 and n = 1475) were conducted at baseline (2010) and endline (2014), respectively. Differences in outcomes over time were estimated using regression models, accounting for clustering and covariates. Plausibility analyses included tracing recall of key messages and promoted foods and dose-response analyses. We observed improvements in most WHO-recommended IYCF indicators. Early BF initiation and exclusive BF increased by 13.7 and 9.4 percentage points (pp), respectively. Differences for timely introduction of complementary foods, minimum dietary diversity (MDD), minimum meal frequency (MMF), minimum acceptable diet (MAD), and consumption of iron-rich foods were 22.2, 3.3, 26.2, 3.5, and 2.7 pp, respectively. Timely introduction and intake of foods promoted by the interventions improved significantly, but anthropometric outcomes did not. We also observed a dose-response association between health post visits and early initiation of BF (OR: 1.8); higher numbers of home visits by community volunteers and key messages recalled were associated with 1.8–4.4 times greater odds of achieving MDD, MMF, and MAD, and higher numbers of radio spots heard were associated with 3 times greater odds of achieving MDD and MAD. The interventions were associated with plausible improvements in IYCF practices, but large gaps in improving children’s diets in Ethiopia remain, particularly during complementary feeding. PMID:27755586

[Case-Mix of hospital emergencies in the Andalusian Health Service based on the 2012 Minimum Data Set. Spain].

PubMed

Goicoechea Salazar, Juan Antonio; Nieto García, María Adoración; Laguna Téllez, Antonio; Larrocha Mata, Daniel; Canto Casasola, Vicente David; Murillo Cabezas, Francisco

2013-01-01

The implementation of digital health records in emergency departments (ED) in hospitals in the Andalusian Health Service and the development of an automatic encoder for this area have allowed us to establish a Minimum Data Set for Emergencies (MDS-ED). The aim of this article is to describe the case mix of hospital EDs using various dimensions contained in the MDS-ED. 3.235.600 hospital emergency records in 2012 were classified in clinical categories from the ICD-9-CM codes generated by the automatic encoder. Operating rules to obtain response time and length of stay were defined. A descriptive analysis was carried out to obtain demographic and chronological indicators as well as hospitalization, return and death rates and response time and length of stay in the Eds. Women generated 54,26% of all occurrences and their average age (39,98 years) was higher than men's (37,61). Paediatric emergencies accounted for 21,49% of the total. The peak hours were from 10:00 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 17:00. Patients who did not undergo observation (92,67%) remained in the ED an average of 153 minutes. Injuries and poisoning, respiratory diseases, musculoskeletal diseases and symptoms and signs generated over 50% of all visits. 79.191 cases of chest pain, 28.741 episodes of heart failure and 27.989 episodes of serious infections were identified among the most relevant disorders. The MDS-ED makes it possible to address systematically the analysis of hospital emergencies by identifying the activity developed, the case-mix attended, the response times, the time spent in ED and the quality of the care.

42 CFR 84.83 - Timers; elapsed time indicators; remaining service life indicators; minimum requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Timers; elapsed time indicators; remaining service life indicators; minimum requirements. 84.83 Section 84.83 Public Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE... indicators; remaining service life indicators; minimum requirements. (a) Elapsed time indicators shall be...

42 CFR 84.83 - Timers; elapsed time indicators; remaining service life indicators; minimum requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 42 Public Health 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Timers; elapsed time indicators; remaining service life indicators; minimum requirements. 84.83 Section 84.83 Public Health PUBLIC HEALTH SERVICE... indicators; remaining service life indicators; minimum requirements. (a) Elapsed time indicators shall be...

Geophysical Inversion with Adaptive Array Processing of Ambient Noise

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Traer, James

2011-12-01

Land-based seismic observations of microseisms generated during Tropical Storms Ernesto and Florence are dominated by signals in the 0.15--0.5Hz band. Data from seafloor hydrophones in shallow water (70m depth, 130 km off the New Jersey coast) show dominant signals in the gravity-wave frequency band, 0.02--0.18Hz and low amplitudes from 0.18--0.3Hz, suggesting significant opposing wave components necessary for DF microseism generation were negligible at the site. Both storms produced similar spectra, despite differing sizes, suggesting near-coastal shallow water as the dominant region for observed microseism generation. A mathematical explanation for a sign-inversion induced to the passive fathometer response by minimum variance distortionless response (MVDR) beamforming is presented. This shows that, in the region containing the bottom reflection, the MVDR fathometer response is identical to that obtained with conventional processing multiplied by a negative factor. A model is presented for the complete passive fathometer response to ocean surface noise, interfering discrete noise sources, and locally uncorrelated noise in an ideal waveguide. The leading order term of the ocean surface noise produces the cross-correlation of vertical multipaths and yields the depth of sub-bottom reflectors. Discrete noise incident on the array via multipaths give multiple peaks in the fathometer response. These peaks may obscure the sub-bottom reflections but can be attenuated with use of Minimum Variance Distortionless Response (MVDR) steering vectors. A theory is presented for the Signal-to-Noise-Ratio (SNR) for the seabed reflection peak in the passive fathometer response as a function of seabed depth, seabed reflection coefficient, averaging time, bandwidth and spatial directivity of the noise field. The passive fathometer algorithm was applied to data from two drifting array experiments in the Mediterranean, Boundary 2003 and 2004, with 0.34s of averaging time. In the 2004 experiment, the response showed the array depth varied periodically with an amplitude of 1 m and a period of 7 s consistent with wave driven motion of the array. This introduced a destructive interference which prevents the SNR growing with averaging time, unless the motion is removed by use of a peak tracker.

Herbarium specimens, photographs, and field observations show Philadelphia area plants are responding to climate change.

PubMed

Panchen, Zoe A; Primack, Richard B; Anisko, Tomasz; Lyons, Robert E

2012-04-01

The global climate is changing rapidly and is expected to continue changing in coming decades. Studying changes in plant flowering times during a historical period of warming temperatures gives us a way to examine the impacts of climate change and allows us to predict further changes in coming decades. The Greater Philadelphia region has a long and rich history of botanical study and documentation, with abundant herbarium specimens, field observations, and botanical photographs from the mid-1800s onward. These extensive records also provide an opportunity to validate methodologies employed by other climate change researchers at a different biogeographical area and with a different group of species. Data for 2539 flowering records from 1840 to 2010 were assessed to examine changes in flowering response over time and in relation to monthly minimum temperatures of 28 Piedmont species native to the Greater Philadelphia region. Regression analysis of the date of flowering with year or with temperature showed that, on average, the Greater Philadelphia species studied are flowering 16 d earlier over the 170-yr period and 2.7 d earlier per 1°C rise in monthly minimum temperature. Of the species studied, woody plants with short flowering duration are the best indicators of a warming climate. For monthly minimum temperatures, temperatures 1 or 2 mo prior to flowering are most significantly correlated with flowering time. Studies combining herbarium specimens, photographs, and field observations are an effective method for detecting the effects of climate change on flowering times.

Response of the EIA ionosphere to the 7-8 May 2005 geomagnetic storm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aggarwal, Malini; Joshi, H. P.; Iyer, K. N.; Kwak, Y. S.

2013-08-01

In this paper, response of low latitude ionosphere to a moderate geomagnetic storm of 7-8 May 2005 (SSC: 1920 UT on 7 May with Sym-H minimum, ∼-112 nT around 1600 UT on 8 May) has been investigated using the GPS measurements from a near EIA crest region, Rajkot (Geog. 22.29°N, 70.74°E, Geomag.14°), India. We found a decrease in total electron content (TEC) in 12 h after the onset of the storm, an increase during and after 6 h of Sym-H deep minimum with a decrease below its usual-day level on the second day during the recovery phase of the storm. On 8 May, an increase of TEC is observed after sunset and during post-midnight hours (maximum up to 170%) with the formation of ionospheric plasma bubbles followed by a nearly simultaneous onset of scintillations at L-band frequencies following the time of rapid decrease in Sym-H index (-30 nT/h around 1300 UT).

The Impact of a City-Level Minimum-Wage Policy on Supermarket Food Prices in Seattle-King County.

PubMed

Otten, Jennifer J; Buszkiewicz, James; Tang, Wesley; Aggarwal, Anju; Long, Mark; Vigdor, Jacob; Drewnowski, Adam

2017-09-09

Background : Many states and localities throughout the U.S. have adopted higher minimum wages. Higher labor costs among low-wage food system workers could result in higher food prices. Methods : Using a market basket of 106 foods, food prices were collected at affected chain supermarket stores in Seattle and same-chain unaffected stores in King County (n = 12 total, six per location). Prices were collected at 1 month pre- (March 2015) and 1-month post-policy enactment (May 2015), then again 1-year post-policy enactment (May 2016). Unpaired t-tests were used to detect price differences by location at fixed time while paired t-tests were used to detect price difference across time with fixed store chain. A multi-level, linear differences-in-differences model, was used to detect the changes in the average market basket item food prices over time across regions, overall and by food group. Results : There were no significant differences in overall market basket or item-level costs at one-month (-$0.01, SE = 0.05, p = 0.884) or one-year post-policy enactment (-$0.02, SE = 0.08, p = 0.772). No significant increases were observed by food group. Conclusions : There is no evidence of change in supermarket food prices by market basket or increase in prices by food group in response to the implementation of Seattle's minimum wage ordinance.

The dynamics and control of large flexible space structures - 12, supplement 11

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bainum, Peter M.; Reddy, A. S. S. R.; Li, Feiyue; Xu, Jianke

1989-01-01

The rapid 2-D slewing and vibrational control of the unsymmetrical flexible SCOLE (Spacecraft Control Laboratory Experiment) with multi-bounded controls is considered. Pontryagin's Maximum Principle is applied to the nonlinear equations of the system to derive the necessary conditions for the optimal control. The resulting two point boundary value problem is then solved by using the quasilinearization technique, and the near minimum time is obtained by sequentially shortening the slewing time until the controls are near the bang-bang type. The tradeoff between the minimum time and the minimum flexible amplitude requirements is discussed. The numerical results show that the responses of the nonlinear system are significantly different from those of the linearized system for rapid slewing. The SCOLE station-keeping closed loop dynamics are re-examined by employing a slightly different method for developing the equations of motion in which higher order terms in the expressions for the mast modal shape functions are now included. A preliminary study on the effect of actuator mass on the closed loop dynamics of large space systems is conducted. A numerical example based on a coupled two-mass two-spring system illustrates the effect of changes caused in the mass and stiffness matrices on the closed loop system eigenvalues. In certain cases the need for redesigning control laws previously synthesized, but not accounting for actuator masses, is indicated.

49 CFR 536.9 - Use of credits with regard to the domestically manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard. 536.9 Section 536.9 Transportation Other Regulations... domestically manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard. (a) Each manufacturer is responsible for..., the domestically manufactured passenger automobile compliance category credit excess or shortfall is...

49 CFR 536.9 - Use of credits with regard to the domestically manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard. 536.9 Section 536.9 Transportation Other Regulations... domestically manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard. (a) Each manufacturer is responsible for..., the domestically manufactured passenger automobile compliance category credit excess or shortfall is...

49 CFR 536.9 - Use of credits with regard to the domestically manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard. 536.9 Section 536.9 Transportation Other Regulations... domestically manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard. (a) Each manufacturer is responsible for..., the domestically manufactured passenger automobile compliance category credit excess or shortfall is...

49 CFR 536.9 - Use of credits with regard to the domestically manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard. 536.9 Section 536.9 Transportation Other Regulations... domestically manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard. (a) Each manufacturer is responsible for..., the domestically manufactured passenger automobile compliance category credit excess or shortfall is...

49 CFR 536.9 - Use of credits with regard to the domestically manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard. 536.9 Section 536.9 Transportation Other Regulations... domestically manufactured passenger automobile minimum standard. (a) Each manufacturer is responsible for..., the domestically manufactured passenger automobile compliance category credit excess or shortfall is...

78 FR 19155 - Shared Responsibility Payment for Not Maintaining Minimum Essential Coverage

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-03-29

... DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Internal Revenue Service 26 CFR Part 1 [REG-148500-12] RIN 1545-BL36 Shared Responsibility Payment for Not Maintaining Minimum Essential Coverage Correction In proposed rule document 2013-2141 appearing on pages 7314-7331 in the issue of Monday, February 1, 2013, make the...

Temporal modulation transfer functions in auditory receptor fibres of the locust ( Locusta migratoria L.).

PubMed

Prinz, P; Ronacher, B

2002-08-01

The temporal resolution of auditory receptors of locusts was investigated by applying noise stimuli with sinusoidal amplitude modulations and by computing temporal modulation transfer functions. These transfer functions showed mostly bandpass characteristics, which are rarely found in other species at the level of receptors. From the upper cut-off frequencies of the modulation transfer functions the minimum integration times were calculated. Minimum integration times showed no significant correlation to the receptor spike rates but depended strongly on the body temperature. At 20 degrees C the average minimum integration time was 1.7 ms, dropping to 0.95 ms at 30 degrees C. The values found in this study correspond well to the range of minimum integration times found in birds and mammals. Gap detection is another standard paradigm to investigate temporal resolution. In locusts and other grasshoppers application of this paradigm yielded values of the minimum detectable gap widths that are approximately twice as large than the minimum integration times reported here.

Time trends in minimum mortality temperatures in Castile-La Mancha (Central Spain): 1975-2003

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miron, Isidro J.; Criado-Alvarez, Juan José; Diaz, Julio; Linares, Cristina; Mayoral, Sheila; Montero, Juan Carlos

2008-03-01

The relationship between air temperature and human mortality is described as non-linear, with mortality tending to rise in response to increasingly hot or cold ambient temperatures from a given minimum mortality or optimal comfort temperature, which varies from some areas to others according to their climatic and socio-demographic characteristics. Changes in these characteristics within any specific region could modify this relationship. This study sought to examine the time trend in the maximum temperature of minimum organic-cause mortality in Castile-La Mancha, from 1975 to 2003. The analysis was performed by using daily series of maximum temperatures and organic-cause mortality rates grouped into three decades (1975-1984, 1985-1994, 1995-2003) to compare confidence intervals ( p < 0.05) obtained by estimating the 10-yearly mortality rates corresponding to the maximum temperatures of minimum mortality calculated for each decade. Temporal variations in the effects of cold and heat on mortality were ascertained by means of ARIMA models (Box-Jenkins) and cross-correlation functions (CCF) at seven lags. We observed a significant decrease in comfort temperature (from 34.2°C to 27.8°C) between the first two decades in the Province of Toledo, along with a growing number of significant lags in the summer CFF (1, 3 and 5, respectively). The fall in comfort temperature is attributable to the increase in the effects of heat on mortality, due, in all likelihood, to the percentage increase in the elderly population.

Random local temporal structure of category fluency responses.

PubMed

Meyer, David J; Messer, Jason; Singh, Tanya; Thomas, Peter J; Woyczynski, Wojbor A; Kaye, Jeffrey; Lerner, Alan J

2012-04-01

The Category Fluency Test (CFT) provides a sensitive measurement of cognitive capabilities in humans related to retrieval from semantic memory. In particular, it is widely used to assess progress of cognitive impairment in patients with dementia. Previous research shows that, in the first approximation, the intensity of tested individuals' responses within a standard 60-s test period decays exponentially with time, with faster decay rates for more cognitively impaired patients. Such decay rate can then be viewed as a global (macro) diagnostic parameter of each test. In the present paper we focus on the statistical properties of the properly de-trended time intervals between consecutive responses (inter-call times) in the Category Fluency Test. In a sense, those properties reflect the local (micro) structure of the response generation process. We find that a good approximation for the distribution of the de-trended inter-call times is provided by the Weibull Distribution, a probability distribution that appears naturally in this context as a distribution of a minimum of independent random quantities and is the standard tool in industrial reliability theory. This insight leads us to a new interpretation of the concept of "navigating a semantic space" via patient responses.

Modification of Prim’s algorithm on complete broadcasting graph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dairina; Arif, Salmawaty; Munzir, Said; Halfiani, Vera; Ramli, Marwan

2017-09-01

Broadcasting is an information dissemination from one object to another object through communication between two objects in a network. Broadcasting for n objects can be solved by n - 1 communications and minimum time unit defined by ⌈2log n⌉ In this paper, weighted graph broadcasting is considered. The minimum weight of a complete broadcasting graph will be determined. Broadcasting graph is said to be complete if every vertex is connected. Thus to determine the minimum weight of complete broadcasting graph is equivalent to determine the minimum spanning tree of a complete graph. The Kruskal’s and Prim’s algorithm will be used to determine the minimum weight of a complete broadcasting graph regardless the minimum time unit ⌈2log n⌉ and modified Prim’s algorithm for the problems of the minimum time unit ⌈2log n⌉ is done. As an example case, here, the training of trainer problem is solved using these algorithms.

Doses of Nearby Nature Simultaneously Associated with Multiple Health Benefits

PubMed Central

Cox, Daniel T. C.; Shanahan, Danielle F.; Hudson, Hannah L.; Fuller, Richard A.; Anderson, Karen; Hancock, Steven; Gaston, Kevin J.

2017-01-01

Exposure to nature provides a wide range of health benefits. A significant proportion of these are delivered close to home, because this offers an immediate and easily accessible opportunity for people to experience nature. However, there is limited information to guide recommendations on its management and appropriate use. We apply a nature dose-response framework to quantify the simultaneous association between exposure to nearby nature and multiple health benefits. We surveyed ca. 1000 respondents in Southern England, UK, to determine relationships between (a) nature dose type, that is the frequency and duration (time spent in private green space) and intensity (quantity of neighbourhood vegetation cover) of nature exposure and (b) health outcomes, including mental, physical and social health, physical behaviour and nature orientation. We then modelled dose-response relationships between dose type and self-reported depression. We demonstrate positive relationships between nature dose and mental and social health, increased physical activity and nature orientation. Dose-response analysis showed that lower levels of depression were associated with minimum thresholds of weekly nature dose. Nearby nature is associated with quantifiable health benefits, with potential for lowering the human and financial costs of ill health. Dose-response analysis has the potential to guide minimum and optimum recommendations on the management and use of nearby nature for preventative healthcare. PMID:28208789

Doses of Nearby Nature Simultaneously Associated with Multiple Health Benefits.

PubMed

Cox, Daniel T C; Shanahan, Danielle F; Hudson, Hannah L; Fuller, Richard A; Anderson, Karen; Hancock, Steven; Gaston, Kevin J

2017-02-09

Exposure to nature provides a wide range of health benefits. A significant proportion of these are delivered close to home, because this offers an immediate and easily accessible opportunity for people to experience nature. However, there is limited information to guide recommendations on its management and appropriate use. We apply a nature dose-response framework to quantify the simultaneous association between exposure to nearby nature and multiple health benefits. We surveyed ca. 1000 respondents in Southern England, UK, to determine relationships between (a) nature dose type, that is the frequency and duration (time spent in private green space) and intensity (quantity of neighbourhood vegetation cover) of nature exposure and (b) health outcomes, including mental, physical and social health, physical behaviour and nature orientation. We then modelled dose-response relationships between dose type and self-reported depression. We demonstrate positive relationships between nature dose and mental and social health, increased physical activity and nature orientation. Dose-response analysis showed that lower levels of depression were associated with minimum thresholds of weekly nature dose. Nearby nature is associated with quantifiable health benefits, with potential for lowering the human and financial costs of ill health. Dose-response analysis has the potential to guide minimum and optimum recommendations on the management and use of nearby nature for preventative healthcare.

mHealth Series: Text messaging data collection of infant and young child feeding practice in rural China – a feasibility study

PubMed Central

Du, Xiaozhen; Wang, Wei; Helena van Velthoven, Michelle; Chen, Li; Scherpbier, Robert W.; Zhang, Yanfeng; Wu, Qiong; Li, Ye; Rao, Xiuqin; Car, Josip

2013-01-01

Background Face–to–face interviews by trained field workers are commonly used in household surveys. However, this data collection method is labor–intensive, time–consuming, expensive, prone to interviewer and recall bias and not easily scalable to increase sample representativeness. Objective To explore the feasibility of using text messaging to collect information on infant and young child feeding practice in rural China. Methods Our study was part of a clustered randomized controlled trial that recruited 591 mothers of children aged 12 to 29 months in rural China. We used the test–retest method: first we collected data through face–to–face interviews and then through text messages. We asked the same five questions on standard infant and young child feeding indicators for both methods and asked caregivers how they fed their children yesterday. We assessed the response rate of the text messaging method and compared data agreement of the two methods. Finding In the text messaging survey, the response rate for the first question and the completion rate were 56.5% and 48.7%, respectively. Data agreement between the two methods was excellent for whether the baby was breastfed yesterday (question 1) (kappa, κ = 0.81), moderate for the times of drinking infant formula, fresh milk or yoghurt yesterday (question 2) (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC = 0.46) and whether iron fortified food or iron supplement was consumed (question 3) (κ = 0.44), and poor for 24–hour dietary recall (question 4) (ICC = 0.13) and times of eating solid and semi–solid food yesterday (question 5) (ICC = 0.06). There was no significant difference in data agreement between the two surveys at different time intervals. For infant and young child feeding indicators from both surveys, continued breastfeeding at 1 year (P = 1.000), continued breastfeeding at 2 years (P = 0.688) and minimum meal frequency (P = 0.056) were not significantly different, whereas minimum dietary diversity, minimum accepted diet and consumption of iron–rich or iron fortified foods were significantly different (P < 0.001). Conclusions The response rate for our text messaging survey was moderate compared to response rate of other studies using text messaging method and the data agreement between the two methods varied for different survey questions and infant and young child feeding indicators. Future research is needed to increase the response rate and improve data validity of text messaging data collection. PMID:24363921

Synaptic delay in the heart: an ionophoretic study.

PubMed Central

Hill-Smith, I; Purves, R D

1978-01-01

1. Neurotransmitters were applied ionophoretically to spontaneously beating clusters of ventricular muscle cells cultured from neonatal rats. 2. Acetylcholine or its analogue carbachol produced hyperpolarization and decreased the rate of spontaneous beating. These responses had minimum latencies of about 250 msec and total durations of 6-12 sec. 3. Noradrenaline, adrenaline or isoprenaline increased the rate of spontaneous beating. The minimum latency for this effect was 3-6 sec. Following a single brief pulse the rate remained elevated for 2 min or more. 4. Chronotropic responses of intact atria from adult rats to stimulation of the autonomic nerves were of similar time course to responses of the cultured muscle cells. 5. Calculations based on the theory of diffusion showed that access of drugs to their receptors could not be rate-limiting for the observed responses, unless a diffusion barrier of rather special properties was postulated. A number of other explanations for the long latencies have been ruled out; these are most likely to be due to some physical or chemical process occurring in or under the cell membrane. 6. Attempts to mimic responses to catecholamines by intracellular application of cyclic AMP were unsuccessful, perhaps because the release of nucleotide from the pipettes was insufficient. A theoretical treatment suggests that ionophoretic efflux of anions might be greatly diminished by the opposing electro-osmotic flux. PMID:209176

The effects of general anaesthesia on nerve-motor response characteristics (rheobase and chronaxie) to peripheral nerve stimulation.

PubMed

Tsui, B C

2014-04-01

Using a simple surface nerve stimulation system, I examined the effects of general anaesthesia on rheobase (the minimum current required to stimulate nerve activity) and chronaxie (the minimum time for a stimulus twice the rheobase to elicit nerve activity). Nerve stimulation was used to elicit a motor response from the ulnar nerve at varying pulse widths before and after induction of general anaesthesia. Mean (SD) rheobase before and after general anaesthesia was 0.91 (0.37) mA (95% CI 0.77-1.04 mA) and 1.11 (0.53) mA (95% CI 0.92-1.30 mA), respectively. Mean (SD) chronaxie measured before and after general anaesthesia was 0.32 (0.17) ms (95% CI 0.26-0.38 ms) and 0.29 (0.13) ms (95% CI 0.24-0.33 ms), respectively. Under anaesthesia, rheobase values increased by an average of 20% (p = 0.05), but chronaxie values did not change significantly (p = 0.39). These results suggest that threshold currents used for motor response from nerve stimulation under general anaesthesia might be higher than those used in awake patients. © 2014 The Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland.

25 CFR 170.506 - What are the minimum qualifications for certified bridge inspectors?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 25 Indians 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false What are the minimum qualifications for certified bridge... Program Facilities Bridge Inspection § 170.506 What are the minimum qualifications for certified bridge inspectors? The person responsible for the bridge inspection team must meet the qualifications for bridge...

The Minimum Wage, Restaurant Prices, and Labor Market Structure

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Aaronson, Daniel; French, Eric; MacDonald, James

2008-01-01

Using store-level and aggregated Consumer Price Index data, we show that restaurant prices rise in response to minimum wage increases under several sources of identifying variation. We introduce a general model of employment determination that implies minimum wage hikes cause prices to rise in competitive labor markets but potentially fall in…

Grappling with Weight Cutting. The Wisconsin Wrestling Minimum Weight Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oppliger, Robert A.; And Others

1995-01-01

In response to a new state rule, the Wisconsin Minimum Weight Project curtails weight cutting among high school wrestlers. The project uses skinfold testing to determine a minimum competitive weight and nutrition education to help the wrestler diet safety. It serves as a model for other states and other sports. (Author/SM)

76 FR 38463 - SAFE Mortgage Licensing Act: Minimum Licensing Standards and Oversight Responsibilities

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-06-30

... Parts 30 and 3400 SAFE Mortgage Licensing Act: Minimum Licensing Standards and Oversight... No. FR-5271-F-03] RIN 2502-A170 SAFE Mortgage Licensing Act: Minimum Licensing Standards and... pursuant to the Secure and Fair Enforcement Mortgage Licensing Act of 2008 (SAFE Act or Act), to ensure...

Behaviour of conductivity improvers in jet fuel

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

Dacre, B.; Hetherington, J.I.

1995-05-01

Dangerous accumulation of electrostatic charge can occur due to high speed pumping and microfiltration of fuel. This can be avoided by increasing the electrical conductivity of the fuel using conductivity improver additives. However, marked variations occur in the conductivity response of different fuels when doped to the same level with conductivity improver. This has been attributed to interactions of the conductivity improver with other fuel additives or fuel contaminants. The present work concentrates on the effects of fuel contaminants, in particular polar compounds, on the performance of the conductivity improver. Conductivity is the fuel property of prime interest. The conductivitymore » response of model systems of the conductivity improver STADIS 450 in dodecane has been measured and the effect on this conductivity of additions of model polar contaminants sodium naphthenate, sodium dodecyl benzene sulphonate, and sodium phenate have been measured. The sodium salts have been found to have a complex effect on the performance of STADIS 450, reducing the conductivity at low concentrations to a minimum value and then increasing the conductivity at high concentrations of sodium salts. This work has focused on characterising this minimum in the conductivity values and on understanding the reason for its occurrence. The effects on the minimum conductivity value of the following parameters are investigated: (a) time, (b) STADIS 450 concentration, (c) sodium salt concentration, (d) mixed sodium salts, (e) experimental method, (f) a phenol, (g) individual components of STADIS 450. The complex conductivity response of the STADIS 450 to sodium salt impurities is discussed in terms of possible inter-molecular interactions.« less

Shared responsibility payment for not maintaining minimum essential coverage. Final regulations.

PubMed

2013-08-30

This document contains final regulations on the requirement to maintain minimum essential coverage enacted by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, as amended by the TRICARE Affirmation Act and Public Law 111-173. These final regulations provide guidance to individual taxpayers on the liability under section 5000A of the Internal Revenue Code for the shared responsibility payment for not maintaining minimum essential coverage and largely finalize the rules in the notice of proposed rulemaking published in the Federal Register on February 1, 2013.

Simulating future uncertainty to guide the selection of survey designs for long-term monitoring

USGS Publications Warehouse

Garman, Steven L.; Schweiger, E. William; Manier, Daniel J.; Gitzen, Robert A.; Millspaugh, Joshua J.; Cooper, Andrew B.; Licht, Daniel S.

2012-01-01

A goal of environmental monitoring is to provide sound information on the status and trends of natural resources (Messer et al. 1991, Theobald et al. 2007, Fancy et al. 2009). When monitoring observations are acquired by measuring a subset of the population of interest, probability sampling as part of a well-constructed survey design provides the most reliable and legally defensible approach to achieve this goal (Cochran 1977, Olsen et al. 1999, Schreuder et al. 2004; see Chapters 2, 5, 6, 7). Previous works have described the fundamentals of sample surveys (e.g. Hansen et al. 1953, Kish 1965). Interest in survey designs and monitoring over the past 15 years has led to extensive evaluations and new developments of sample selection methods (Stevens and Olsen 2004), of strategies for allocating sample units in space and time (Urquhart et al. 1993, Overton and Stehman 1996, Urquhart and Kincaid 1999), and of estimation (Lesser and Overton 1994, Overton and Stehman 1995) and variance properties (Larsen et al. 1995, Stevens and Olsen 2003) of survey designs. Carefully planned, “scientific” (Chapter 5) survey designs have become a standard in contemporary monitoring of natural resources. Based on our experience with the long-term monitoring program of the US National Park Service (NPS; Fancy et al. 2009; Chapters 16, 22), operational survey designs tend to be selected using the following procedures. For a monitoring indicator (i.e. variable or response), a minimum detectable trend requirement is specified, based on the minimum level of change that would result in meaningful change (e.g. degradation). A probability of detecting this trend (statistical power) and an acceptable level of uncertainty (Type I error; see Chapter 2) within a specified time frame (e.g. 10 years) are specified to ensure timely detection. Explicit statements of the minimum detectable trend, the time frame for detecting the minimum trend, power, and acceptable probability of Type I error (α) collectively form the quantitative sampling objective.

Human rights assessment in Parc Jean Marie Vincent, Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

PubMed

Cullen, Kimberly A; Ivers, Louise C

2010-12-15

Months after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit Port-au-Prince, Haiti, over one million remain homeless and living in spontaneous internally displaced person (IDP) camps. Billions of dollars from aid organizations and government agencies have been pledged toward the relief effort, yet many basic human needs, including food, shelter, and sanitation, continue to be unmet. The Sphere Project, "Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response," identifies the minimum standards to be attained in disaster response. From a human rights perspective and utilizing key indicators from the Sphere Project as benchmarks, this article reports on an assessment of the living conditions approximately 12 weeks after the earthquake in Parc Jean Marie Vincent, a spontaneous IDP camp in Port-au-Prince. A stratified random sample of households in the camp, proportionate to the number of families living in each sector, was selected. Interview questions were designed to serve as "key indicators" for the Sphere Project minimum standards. A total of 486 interviews were completed, representing approximately 5% of households in each of the five sectors of the camp. Our assessment identified the relative achievements and shortcomings in the provision of relief services in Parc Jean Marie Vincent. At the time of this survey, the Sphere Project minimum standards for access to health care and quantity of water per person per day were being met. Food, shelter, sanitation, and security were below minimum accepted standard and of major concern. The formal assessment reported here was completed by September 2010, and is necessarily limited to conditions in Haiti before the cholera outbreak in October. Copyright © 2010 Cullen and Ivers. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/3.0/), which permits unrestricted non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Development of a CFC Critical Area Response (CAR) package

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mccain, J. Wayne

1995-01-01

During the past two years, the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) has studied means to improve the transfer of technology from a major federal lab to a significant portion of an industrial segment. In the past, technology transfers had taken place with individual firms, or small groups of firms. This method of 'customized' transfer is often time consuming and can reduce the effectiveness of a response. Thus, a method was achieved to develop a standardized package on replacement of Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC's) that could be sent out to a large number of firms with minimum follow-up.

Long-term-average, solar cycle, and seasonal response of magnetospheric energetic electrons to the solar wind speed

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vassiliadis, D.; Klimas, A. J.; Kanekal, S. G.; Baker, D. N.; Weigel, R. S.

2002-11-01

Among the interplanetary activity parameters the solar wind speed is the one best correlated with the energetic electron fluxes in the inner magnetosphere. We examine the radial and temporal characteristics of the 2-6 MeV electron response, approximating it in this paper with linear filters. The filter response is parameterized by the time delay (τ), measured from the time of solar wind impact, and the L shell (L). We examine solar cycle and seasonal effects using an 8-year-long database of Solar, Anomalous, and Magnetospheric Particle Explorer (SAMPEX)/ Proton Electron Telescope (PET) measurements at the radial range L = 1.1-10. The main peak P1 of the long-term-average response is at (τ, L) = (2, 5.3) and has a simultaneous response over a wide range of radial distances, ΔL = 5. The duration of the response after the peak is inversely proportional to the L shell. The central part of the inner magnetosphere (L = 3.7-5.75) has a much more prolonged response (>10 days) than other parts. Prior to the main response, P1, a brief response, P0, of typically lower amplitude appears at (τ, L) = (0, 3), probably as a quasi-adiabatic response to the compression of the magnetosphere by the solar wind pressure. Over the solar cycle the variation in solar wind input results in a systematic change of the position, amplitude, radial extent, and duration of the two peaks: during solar wind minimum the quasi-adiabatic peak disappears, and the radial size of the responding region decreases; both are responses to low-density, high-speed streams. During solar minimum, the duration is at least 3 days (30%) longer than average, probably due to the sustained solar wind input. Systematic variations appear also as a function of season due to several magnetic and fluid effects. During equinoxes the coupling is stronger, and the duration is longer (by at least 2 days) compared to solstices. Between the two equinoxes the fall response has a significantly higher amplitude and longer duration than the spring equinox response. This is at least partly due to the higher GSE By component during the observation time, which acts to increase the effective GSM Bz component according to the Russell-McPherron effect. The seasonal modulation of the response is consistent with the variation in the fluxes themselves [, 1999]. The modulation is discussed in terms of the equinoctial and axial hypotheses [, 1970; , 1973; , 2000].

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

Maze, Grace M.

STREAM II is the aqueous transport model of the Weather Information Display (WIND) emergency response system at Savannah River Site. It is used to calculate transport in the event of a chemical or radiological spill into the waterways on the Savannah River Site. Improvements were made to the code (STREAM II V7) to include flow from all site tributaries to the Savannah River total flow and utilize a 4 digit year input. The predicted downstream concentrations using V7 were generally on the same order of magnitude as V6 with slightly lower concentrations and quicker arrival times when all onsite streammore » flows are contributing to the Savannah River flow. The downstream arrival time at the Savannah River Water Plant ranges from no change to an increase of 8.77%, with minimum changes typically in March/April and maximum changes typically in October/November. The downstream concentrations are generally no more than 15% lower using V7 with the maximum percent change in January through April and minimum changes in June/July.« less

Evaluating perceptual integration: uniting response-time- and accuracy-based methodologies.

PubMed

Eidels, Ami; Townsend, James T; Hughes, Howard C; Perry, Lacey A

2015-02-01

This investigation brings together a response-time system identification methodology (e.g., Townsend & Wenger Psychonomic Bulletin & Review 11, 391-418, 2004a) and an accuracy methodology, intended to assess models of integration across stimulus dimensions (features, modalities, etc.) that were proposed by Shaw and colleagues (e.g., Mulligan & Shaw Perception & Psychophysics 28, 471-478, 1980). The goal was to theoretically examine these separate strategies and to apply them conjointly to the same set of participants. The empirical phases were carried out within an extension of an established experimental design called the double factorial paradigm (e.g., Townsend & Nozawa Journal of Mathematical Psychology 39, 321-359, 1995). That paradigm, based on response times, permits assessments of architecture (parallel vs. serial processing), stopping rule (exhaustive vs. minimum time), and workload capacity, all within the same blocks of trials. The paradigm introduced by Shaw and colleagues uses a statistic formally analogous to that of the double factorial paradigm, but based on accuracy rather than response times. We demonstrate that the accuracy measure cannot discriminate between parallel and serial processing. Nonetheless, the class of models supported by the accuracy data possesses a suitable interpretation within the same set of models supported by the response-time data. The supported model, consistent across individuals, is parallel and has limited capacity, with the participants employing the appropriate stopping rule for the experimental setting.

13 CFR 120.473 - Procedures for determining individual minimum capital requirement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...) Decision. After the close of the SBLC's response period, the AA/CA will decide, based on a review of SBA... requirement by the specified date, either the SBLC or the AA/CA may propose to the other a change in the... determining individual minimum capital requirement. (a) Notice. When SBA determines that an individual minimum...

Proceedings of the Symposium on Minimum Competency Testing (Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, October 24-25, 1979).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mid-Atlantic Teacher Corps Network, Philadelphia, PA.

The conference's keynote address is presented by Bernard C. Watson. Papers include: Vantage from the State Department of Education, by Robert G. Scanlon (Pennsylvania); Minimum Competency: As the Public Sees the Question, by Jacqueline Grennan Wexler; Minimum Competency Testing (MCT): A Tripartite Response from the Profession, by W. James Popham;…

Neural source dynamics of brain responses to continuous stimuli: Speech processing from acoustics to comprehension.

PubMed

Brodbeck, Christian; Presacco, Alessandro; Simon, Jonathan Z

2018-05-15

Human experience often involves continuous sensory information that unfolds over time. This is true in particular for speech comprehension, where continuous acoustic signals are processed over seconds or even minutes. We show that brain responses to such continuous stimuli can be investigated in detail, for magnetoencephalography (MEG) data, by combining linear kernel estimation with minimum norm source localization. Previous research has shown that the requirement to average data over many trials can be overcome by modeling the brain response as a linear convolution of the stimulus and a kernel, or response function, and estimating a kernel that predicts the response from the stimulus. However, such analysis has been typically restricted to sensor space. Here we demonstrate that this analysis can also be performed in neural source space. We first computed distributed minimum norm current source estimates for continuous MEG recordings, and then computed response functions for the current estimate at each source element, using the boosting algorithm with cross-validation. Permutation tests can then assess the significance of individual predictor variables, as well as features of the corresponding spatio-temporal response functions. We demonstrate the viability of this technique by computing spatio-temporal response functions for speech stimuli, using predictor variables reflecting acoustic, lexical and semantic processing. Results indicate that processes related to comprehension of continuous speech can be differentiated anatomically as well as temporally: acoustic information engaged auditory cortex at short latencies, followed by responses over the central sulcus and inferior frontal gyrus, possibly related to somatosensory/motor cortex involvement in speech perception; lexical frequency was associated with a left-lateralized response in auditory cortex and subsequent bilateral frontal activity; and semantic composition was associated with bilateral temporal and frontal brain activity. We conclude that this technique can be used to study the neural processing of continuous stimuli in time and anatomical space with the millisecond temporal resolution of MEG. This suggests new avenues for analyzing neural processing of naturalistic stimuli, without the necessity of averaging over artificially short or truncated stimuli. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The relation between peak response magnitudes and agreement in diagnoses obtained from two different phallometric tests for pedophilia.

PubMed

Lykins, Amy D; Cantor, James M; Kuban, Michael E; Blak, Thomas; Dickey, Robert; Klassen, Philip E; Blanchard, Ray

2010-03-01

Phallometric testing is widely considered the best psychophysiological procedure for assessing erotic preferences in men. Researchers have differed, however, on the necessity of setting some minimum criterion of penile response for ascertaining the interpretability of a phallometric test result. Proponents of a minimum criterion have generally based their view on the intuitive notion that "more is better" rather than any formal demonstration of this. The present study was conducted to investigate whether there is any empirical evidence for this intuitive notion, by examining the relation between magnitude of penile response and the agreement in diagnoses obtained in two test sessions using different laboratory stimuli. The results showed that examinees with inconsistent diagnoses responded less on both tests and that examinees with inconsistent diagnoses responded less on the second test after controlling for their response on the first test. Results also indicated that at response levels less than 1 cm(3), diagnostic consistency was no better than chance, supporting the establishment of a minimum response level criterion.

Optimization study for Pb(II) and COD sequestration by consortium of sulphate-reducing bacteria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verma, Anamika; Bishnoi, Narsi R.; Gupta, Asha

2017-09-01

In this study, initial minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of Pb(II) ions was analysed to check optimum concentration of Pb(II) ions at which the growth of sulphate-reducing consortium (SRC) was found to be maximum. 80 ppm of Pb(II) ions was investigated as minimum inhibitory concentration for SRC. Influence of electron donors such as lactose, sucrose, glucose and sodium lactate was examined to investigate best carbon source for growth and activity of sulphate-reducing bacteria. Sodium lactate was found to be the prime carbon source for SRC. Later optimization of various parameters was executed using Box-Behnken design model of response surface methodology to explore the effectiveness of three independent operating variables, namely, pH (5.0-9.0), temperature (32-42 °C) and time (5.0-9.0 days), on dependent variables, i.e. protein content, precipitation of Pb(II) ions, and removal of COD by SRC biomass. Maximum removal of COD and Pb(II) was observed to be 91 and 98 %, respectively, at pH 7.0 and temperature 37 °C and incubation time 7 days. According to response surface analysis and analysis of variance, the experimental data were perfectly fitted to the quadratic model, and the interactive influence of pH, temperature and time on Pb(II) and COD removal was highly significant. A high regression coefficient between the variables and response ( r 2 = 0.9974) corroborate eminent evaluation of experimental data by second-order polynomial regression model. SEM and Fourier transform infrared analysis was performed to investigate morphology of PbS precipitates, sorption mechanism and involved functional groups in metal-free and metal-loaded biomass of SRC for Pb(II) binding.

Minimum-Time Consensus-Based Approach for Power System Applications

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

Yang, Tao; Wu, Di; Sun, Yannan

2016-02-01

This paper presents minimum-time consensus based distributed algorithms for power system applications, such as load shedding and economic dispatch. The proposed algorithms are capable of solving these problems in a minimum number of time steps instead of asymptotically as in most of existing studies. Moreover, these algorithms are applicable to both undirected and directed communication networks. Simulation results are used to validate the proposed algorithms.

50 CFR 259.34 - Minimum and maximum deposits; maximum time to deposit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... B objective. A time longer than 10 years, either by original scheduling or by subsequent extension... OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE AID TO FISHERIES CAPITAL CONSTRUCTION FUND...) Minimum annual deposit. The minimum annual (based on each party's taxable year) deposit required by the...

The Impact of a City-Level Minimum-Wage Policy on Supermarket Food Prices in Seattle-King County

PubMed Central

Tang, Wesley; Aggarwal, Anju; Vigdor, Jacob; Drewnowski, Adam

2017-01-01

Background: Many states and localities throughout the U.S. have adopted higher minimum wages. Higher labor costs among low-wage food system workers could result in higher food prices. Methods: Using a market basket of 106 foods, food prices were collected at affected chain supermarket stores in Seattle and same-chain unaffected stores in King County (n = 12 total, six per location). Prices were collected at 1 month pre- (March 2015) and 1-month post-policy enactment (May 2015), then again 1-year post-policy enactment (May 2016). Unpaired t-tests were used to detect price differences by location at fixed time while paired t-tests were used to detect price difference across time with fixed store chain. A multi-level, linear differences-in-differences model, was used to detect the changes in the average market basket item food prices over time across regions, overall and by food group. Results: There were no significant differences in overall market basket or item-level costs at one-month (−$0.01, SE = 0.05, p = 0.884) or one-year post-policy enactment (−$0.02, SE = 0.08, p = 0.772). No significant increases were observed by food group. Conclusions: There is no evidence of change in supermarket food prices by market basket or increase in prices by food group in response to the implementation of Seattle’s minimum wage ordinance. PMID:28891937

Patterns of Song across Natural and Anthropogenic Soundscapes Suggest That White-Crowned Sparrows Minimize Acoustic Masking and Maximize Signal Content.

PubMed

Derryberry, Elizabeth P; Danner, Raymond M; Danner, Julie E; Derryberry, Graham E; Phillips, Jennifer N; Lipshutz, Sara E; Gentry, Katherine; Luther, David A

2016-01-01

Soundscapes pose both evolutionarily recent and long-standing sources of selection on acoustic communication. We currently know more about the impact of evolutionarily recent human-generated noise on communication than we do about how natural sounds such as pounding surf have shaped communication signals over evolutionary time. Based on signal detection theory, we hypothesized that acoustic phenotypes will vary with both anthropogenic and natural background noise levels and that similar mechanisms of cultural evolution and/or behavioral flexibility may underlie this variation. We studied song characteristics of white-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys nuttalli) across a noise gradient that includes both anthropogenic and natural sources of noise in San Francisco and Marin counties, California, USA. Both anthropogenic and natural soundscapes contain high amplitude low frequency noise (traffic or surf, respectively), so we predicted that birds would produce songs with higher minimum frequencies in areas with higher amplitude background noise to avoid auditory masking. We also anticipated that song minimum frequencies would be higher than the projected lower frequency limit of hearing based on site-specific masking profiles. Background noise was a strong predictor of song minimum frequency, both within a local noise gradient of three urban sites with the same song dialect and cultural evolutionary history, and across the regional noise gradient, which encompasses 11 urban and rural sites, several dialects, and several anthropogenic and natural sources of noise. Among rural sites alone, background noise tended to predict song minimum frequency, indicating that urban sites were not solely responsible for driving the regional pattern. These findings support the hypothesis that songs vary with local and regional soundscapes regardless of the source of noise. Song minimum frequency from five core study sites was also higher than the lower frequency limit of hearing at each site, further supporting the hypothesis that songs vary to transmit through noise in local soundscapes. Minimum frequencies leveled off at noisier sites, suggesting that minimum frequencies are constrained to an upper limit, possibly to retain the information content of wider bandwidths. We found evidence that site noise was a better predictor of song minimum frequency than territory noise in both anthropogenic and natural soundscapes, suggesting that cultural evolution rather than immediate behavioral flexibility is responsible for local song variation. Taken together, these results indicate that soundscapes shape song phenotype across both evolutionarily recent and long-standing soundscapes.

Patterns of Song across Natural and Anthropogenic Soundscapes Suggest That White-Crowned Sparrows Minimize Acoustic Masking and Maximize Signal Content

PubMed Central

Derryberry, Graham E.; Phillips, Jennifer N.; Lipshutz, Sara E.; Gentry, Katherine; Luther, David A.

2016-01-01

Soundscapes pose both evolutionarily recent and long-standing sources of selection on acoustic communication. We currently know more about the impact of evolutionarily recent human-generated noise on communication than we do about how natural sounds such as pounding surf have shaped communication signals over evolutionary time. Based on signal detection theory, we hypothesized that acoustic phenotypes will vary with both anthropogenic and natural background noise levels and that similar mechanisms of cultural evolution and/or behavioral flexibility may underlie this variation. We studied song characteristics of white-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys nuttalli) across a noise gradient that includes both anthropogenic and natural sources of noise in San Francisco and Marin counties, California, USA. Both anthropogenic and natural soundscapes contain high amplitude low frequency noise (traffic or surf, respectively), so we predicted that birds would produce songs with higher minimum frequencies in areas with higher amplitude background noise to avoid auditory masking. We also anticipated that song minimum frequencies would be higher than the projected lower frequency limit of hearing based on site-specific masking profiles. Background noise was a strong predictor of song minimum frequency, both within a local noise gradient of three urban sites with the same song dialect and cultural evolutionary history, and across the regional noise gradient, which encompasses 11 urban and rural sites, several dialects, and several anthropogenic and natural sources of noise. Among rural sites alone, background noise tended to predict song minimum frequency, indicating that urban sites were not solely responsible for driving the regional pattern. These findings support the hypothesis that songs vary with local and regional soundscapes regardless of the source of noise. Song minimum frequency from five core study sites was also higher than the lower frequency limit of hearing at each site, further supporting the hypothesis that songs vary to transmit through noise in local soundscapes. Minimum frequencies leveled off at noisier sites, suggesting that minimum frequencies are constrained to an upper limit, possibly to retain the information content of wider bandwidths. We found evidence that site noise was a better predictor of song minimum frequency than territory noise in both anthropogenic and natural soundscapes, suggesting that cultural evolution rather than immediate behavioral flexibility is responsible for local song variation. Taken together, these results indicate that soundscapes shape song phenotype across both evolutionarily recent and long-standing soundscapes. PMID:27128443

Defining worthwhile and desired responses to treatment of chronic low back pain.

PubMed

Yelland, Michael J; Schluter, Philip J

2006-01-01

To describe patients' perceptions of minimum worthwhile and desired reductions in pain and disability upon commencing treatment for chronic low back pain. Descriptive study nested within a community-based randomized controlled trial on prolotherapy injections and exercises. A total of 110 participants with chronic low back pain. Interventions. Prior to treatment, participants were asked what minimum percentage reductions in pain and disability would make treatment worthwhile and what percentage reductions in pain and disability they desired with treatment. Minimum worthwhile reductions and desired reductions in pain and disability. Median (inter-quartile range) minimum worthwhile reductions were 25% (20%, 50%) for pain and 35% (20%, 50%) for disability. This compared with desired reductions of 80% (60%, 100%) for pain and 80% (50%, 100%) for disability. The internal consistency between pain and disability responses was high (Spearman's coefficient of association of 0.81 and 0.87, respectively). A significant association existed between minimum worthwhile reductions and desired reductions, but no association was found between these two factors and patient age, gender, pain severity or duration, disability, anxiety, depression, response to treatment, or treatment satisfaction. Inquiring directly about patients' expectations of reductions in pain and in disability is important in establishing realistic treatment goals and setting benchmarks for success. There is a wide disparity between the reductions that they regard as minimum worthwhile and reductions that they hope to achieve. However, there is a high internal consistency between reductions in pain and disability that they expect.

PILOT RESULTS ON FORWARD COLLISION WARNING SYSTEM EFFECTIVENESS IN OLDER DRIVERS

PubMed Central

Lester, Benjamin D.; Sager, Lauren N.; Dawson, Jeffrey; Hacker, Sarah D.; Aksan, Nazan; Rizzo, Matthew; Kitazaki, Satoshi

2016-01-01

Summary Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) have largely been developed with a “one-size-fits-all” approach. This approach neglects the large inter-individual variability in perceptual and cognitive abilities that affect aging ADAS users. We investigated the effectiveness of a forward collision warning (FCW) with fixed response parameters in young and older drivers with differing levels of cognitive functioning. Drivers responded to a pedestrian stepping into the driver’s path on a simulated urban road. Behavioral metrics included response times (RT) for pedal controls and two indices of risk penetration (e.g., maximum deceleration and minimum time-to-collision (TTC)). Older drivers showed significantly slower responses at several time points compared to younger drivers. The FCW facilitated response times (RTs) for older and younger drivers. However, older drivers still showed smaller safety gains compared to younger drivers at accelerator pedal release and initial brake application when the FCW was active. No significant differences in risk metrics were observed within the condition studied. The results demonstrate older drivers likely differ from younger drivers using a FCW with a fixed parameter set. Finally, we briefly discuss how future research should examine predictive relationships between domains of cognitive functioning and ADAS responses to develop parameter sets to fit the individual. PMID:27135061

Understanding Counterinsurgency in Democratic Settings: Counterinsurgency Success and Failure in Kashmir and Nepal

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-03-01

Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instruction ...Success Demands a Balanced Approach” (Art of War Papers, Command and General Staff College , Kansas, 2012), 1. 11 Ibid. 12 Jack L. Snyder, Voting to...friendly military operations, and information operations. According to this model, the use of military operations is also considered valid as a minimum

An Explicit Linear Filtering Solution for the Optimization of Guidance Systems with Statistical Inputs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stewart, Elwood C.

1961-01-01

The determination of optimum filtering characteristics for guidance system design is generally a tedious process which cannot usually be carried out in general terms. In this report a simple explicit solution is given which is applicable to many different types of problems. It is shown to be applicable to problems which involve optimization of constant-coefficient guidance systems and time-varying homing type systems for several stationary and nonstationary inputs. The solution is also applicable to off-design performance, that is, the evaluation of system performance for inputs for which the system was not specifically optimized. The solution is given in generalized form in terms of the minimum theoretical error, the optimum transfer functions, and the optimum transient response. The effects of input signal, contaminating noise, and limitations on the response are included. From the results given, it is possible in an interception problem, for example, to rapidly assess the effects on minimum theoretical error of such factors as target noise and missile acceleration. It is also possible to answer important questions regarding the effect of type of target maneuver on optimum performance.

Physiological and biochemical responses of Prorocentrum minimum to high light stress

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, So Yun; Choi, Eun Seok; Hwang, Jinik; Kim, Donggiun; Ryu, Tae Kwon; Lee, Taek-Kyun

2009-12-01

Prorocentrum minimum is a common bloomforming photosynthetic dinoflagellate found along the southern coast of Korea. To investigate the adaptive responses of P. minimum to high light stress, we measured growth rate, and generation of reactive oxidative species (ROS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in cultures exposed to normal (NL) and high light levels (HL). The results showed that HL (800 μmol m-2 s-1) inhibited growth of P. minimum, with maximal inhibition after 7-9 days. HL also increased the amount of ROS and MDA, suggesting that HL stress leads to oxidative damage and lipid peroxidation in this species. Under HL, we first detected superoxide on day 4 and H2O2 on day 5. We also detected SOD activity on day 5 and CAT activity on day 6. The level of lipid peroxidation, an indicator of cell death, was high on day 8. Addition of diphenyleneiodonium (DPI), an NAD(P)H inhibitor, decreased the levels of superoxide generation and lipid peroxidation. Our results indicate that the production of ROS which results from HL stress in P. minimum also induces antioxidative enzymes that counteract oxidative damage and allow P. minimum to survive.

Irreversibility and entropy production in transport phenomena, III—Principle of minimum integrated entropy production including nonlinear responses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suzuki, Masuo

2013-01-01

A new variational principle of steady states is found by introducing an integrated type of energy dissipation (or entropy production) instead of instantaneous energy dissipation. This new principle is valid both in linear and nonlinear transport phenomena. Prigogine’s dream has now been realized by this new general principle of minimum “integrated” entropy production (or energy dissipation). This new principle does not contradict with the Onsager-Prigogine principle of minimum instantaneous entropy production in the linear regime, but it is conceptually different from the latter which does not hold in the nonlinear regime. Applications of this theory to electric conduction, heat conduction, particle diffusion and chemical reactions are presented. The irreversibility (or positive entropy production) and long time tail problem in Kubo’s formula are also discussed in the Introduction and last section. This constitutes the complementary explanation of our theory of entropy production given in the previous papers (M. Suzuki, Physica A 390 (2011) 1904 and M. Suzuki, Physica A 391 (2012) 1074) and has given the motivation of the present investigation of variational principle.

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

Müller, O., E-mail: o.mueller@uni-wuppertal.de; Lützenkirchen-Hecht, D.; Frahm, R.

A fast X-ray chopper capable of producing ms long X-ray pulses with a typical rise time of few μs was realized. It is ideally suited to investigate the temporal response of X-ray detectors with response times of the order of μs to ms, in particular, any kind of ionization chambers and large area photo diodes. The drive mechanism consists of a brushless DC motor and driver electronics from a common hard disk drive, keeping the cost at an absolute minimum. Due to its simple construction and small dimensions, this chopper operates at home lab based X-ray tubes and synchrotron radiationmore » sources as well. The dynamics of the most important detectors used in time resolved X-ray absorption spectroscopy, namely, ionization chambers and Passivated Implanted Planar Silicon photodiodes, were investigated in detail. The results emphasize the applicability of this X-ray chopper.« less

Hard disk drive based microsecond X-ray chopper for characterization of ionization chambers and photodiodes.

PubMed

Müller, O; Lützenkirchen-Hecht, D; Frahm, R

2015-03-01

A fast X-ray chopper capable of producing ms long X-ray pulses with a typical rise time of few μs was realized. It is ideally suited to investigate the temporal response of X-ray detectors with response times of the order of μs to ms, in particular, any kind of ionization chambers and large area photo diodes. The drive mechanism consists of a brushless DC motor and driver electronics from a common hard disk drive, keeping the cost at an absolute minimum. Due to its simple construction and small dimensions, this chopper operates at home lab based X-ray tubes and synchrotron radiation sources as well. The dynamics of the most important detectors used in time resolved X-ray absorption spectroscopy, namely, ionization chambers and Passivated Implanted Planar Silicon photodiodes, were investigated in detail. The results emphasize the applicability of this X-ray chopper.

Statistical analysis of hydrological response in urbanising catchments based on adaptive sampling using inter-amount times

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

ten Veldhuis, Marie-Claire; Schleiss, Marc

2017-04-01

Urban catchments are typically characterised by a more flashy nature of the hydrological response compared to natural catchments. Predicting flow changes associated with urbanisation is not straightforward, as they are influenced by interactions between impervious cover, basin size, drainage connectivity and stormwater management infrastructure. In this study, we present an alternative approach to statistical analysis of hydrological response variability and basin flashiness, based on the distribution of inter-amount times. We analyse inter-amount time distributions of high-resolution streamflow time series for 17 (semi-)urbanised basins in North Carolina, USA, ranging from 13 to 238 km2 in size. We show that in the inter-amount-time framework, sampling frequency is tuned to the local variability of the flow pattern, resulting in a different representation and weighting of high and low flow periods in the statistical distribution. This leads to important differences in the way the distribution quantiles, mean, coefficient of variation and skewness vary across scales and results in lower mean intermittency and improved scaling. Moreover, we show that inter-amount-time distributions can be used to detect regulation effects on flow patterns, identify critical sampling scales and characterise flashiness of hydrological response. The possibility to use both the classical approach and the inter-amount-time framework to identify minimum observable scales and analyse flow data opens up interesting areas for future research.

Computationally-Efficient Minimum-Time Aircraft Routes in the Presence of Winds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jardin, Matthew R.

2004-01-01

A computationally efficient algorithm for minimizing the flight time of an aircraft in a variable wind field has been invented. The algorithm, referred to as Neighboring Optimal Wind Routing (NOWR), is based upon neighboring-optimal-control (NOC) concepts and achieves minimum-time paths by adjusting aircraft heading according to wind conditions at an arbitrary number of wind measurement points along the flight route. The NOWR algorithm may either be used in a fast-time mode to compute minimum- time routes prior to flight, or may be used in a feedback mode to adjust aircraft heading in real-time. By traveling minimum-time routes instead of direct great-circle (direct) routes, flights across the United States can save an average of about 7 minutes, and as much as one hour of flight time during periods of strong jet-stream winds. The neighboring optimal routes computed via the NOWR technique have been shown to be within 1.5 percent of the absolute minimum-time routes for flights across the continental United States. On a typical 450-MHz Sun Ultra workstation, the NOWR algorithm produces complete minimum-time routes in less than 40 milliseconds. This corresponds to a rate of 25 optimal routes per second. The closest comparable optimization technique runs approximately 10 times slower. Airlines currently use various trial-and-error search techniques to determine which of a set of commonly traveled routes will minimize flight time. These algorithms are too computationally expensive for use in real-time systems, or in systems where many optimal routes need to be computed in a short amount of time. Instead of operating in real-time, airlines will typically plan a trajectory several hours in advance using wind forecasts. If winds change significantly from forecasts, the resulting flights will no longer be minimum-time. The need for a computationally efficient wind-optimal routing algorithm is even greater in the case of new air-traffic-control automation concepts. For air-traffic-control automation, thousands of wind-optimal routes may need to be computed and checked for conflicts in just a few minutes. These factors motivated the need for a more efficient wind-optimal routing algorithm.

The segment as the minimal planning unit in speech production: evidence based on absolute response latencies.

PubMed

Kawamoto, Alan H; Liu, Qiang; Lee, Ria J; Grebe, Patricia R

2014-01-01

A minimal amount of information about a word must be phonologically and phonetically encoded before a person can begin to utter that word. Most researchers assume that the minimum is the complete word or possibly the initial syllable. However, there is some evidence that the initial segment is sufficient based on longer durations when the initial segment is primed. In two experiments in which the initial segment of a monosyllabic word is primed or not primed, we present additional evidence based on very short absolute response times determined on the basis of acoustic and articulatory onset relative to presentation of the complete target. We argue that the previous failures to find very short absolute response times when the initial segment is primed are due in part to the exclusive use of acoustic onset as a measure of response latency, the exclusion of responses with very short acoustic latencies, the manner of articulation of the initial segment (i.e., plosive vs. nonplosive), and individual differences. Theoretical implications of the segment as the minimal planning unit are considered.

Minimum energy control for in vitro neurons.

PubMed

Nabi, Ali; Stigen, Tyler; Moehlis, Jeff; Netoff, Theoden

2013-06-01

To demonstrate the applicability of optimal control theory for designing minimum energy charge-balanced input waveforms for single periodically-firing in vitro neurons from brain slices of Long-Evans rats. The method of control uses the phase model of a neuron and does not require prior knowledge of the neuron's biological details. The phase model of a neuron is a one-dimensional model that is characterized by the neuron's phase response curve (PRC), a sensitivity measure of the neuron to a stimulus applied at different points in its firing cycle. The PRC for each neuron is experimentally obtained by measuring the shift in phase due to a short-duration pulse injected into the periodically-firing neuron at various phase values. Based on the measured PRC, continuous-time, charge-balanced, minimum energy control waveforms have been designed to regulate the next firing time of the neuron upon application at the onset of an action potential. The designed waveforms can achieve the inter-spike-interval regulation for in vitro neurons with energy levels that are lower than those of conventional monophasic pulsatile inputs of past studies by at least an order of magnitude. They also provide the advantage of being charge-balanced. The energy efficiency of these waveforms is also shown by performing several supporting simulations that compare the performance of the designed waveforms against that of phase shuffled surrogate inputs, variants of the minimum energy waveforms obtained from suboptimal PRCs, as well as pulsatile stimuli that are applied at the point of maximum PRC. It was found that the minimum energy waveforms perform better than all other stimuli both in terms of control and in the amount of energy used. Specifically, it was seen that these charge-balanced waveforms use at least an order of magnitude less energy than conventional monophasic pulsatile stimuli. The significance of this work is that it uses concepts from the theory of optimal control and introduces a novel approach in designing minimum energy charge-balanced input waveforms for neurons that are robust to noise and implementable in electrophysiological experiments.

Minimum energy control for in vitro neurons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nabi, Ali; Stigen, Tyler; Moehlis, Jeff; Netoff, Theoden

2013-06-01

Objective. To demonstrate the applicability of optimal control theory for designing minimum energy charge-balanced input waveforms for single periodically-firing in vitro neurons from brain slices of Long-Evans rats. Approach. The method of control uses the phase model of a neuron and does not require prior knowledge of the neuron’s biological details. The phase model of a neuron is a one-dimensional model that is characterized by the neuron’s phase response curve (PRC), a sensitivity measure of the neuron to a stimulus applied at different points in its firing cycle. The PRC for each neuron is experimentally obtained by measuring the shift in phase due to a short-duration pulse injected into the periodically-firing neuron at various phase values. Based on the measured PRC, continuous-time, charge-balanced, minimum energy control waveforms have been designed to regulate the next firing time of the neuron upon application at the onset of an action potential. Main result. The designed waveforms can achieve the inter-spike-interval regulation for in vitro neurons with energy levels that are lower than those of conventional monophasic pulsatile inputs of past studies by at least an order of magnitude. They also provide the advantage of being charge-balanced. The energy efficiency of these waveforms is also shown by performing several supporting simulations that compare the performance of the designed waveforms against that of phase shuffled surrogate inputs, variants of the minimum energy waveforms obtained from suboptimal PRCs, as well as pulsatile stimuli that are applied at the point of maximum PRC. It was found that the minimum energy waveforms perform better than all other stimuli both in terms of control and in the amount of energy used. Specifically, it was seen that these charge-balanced waveforms use at least an order of magnitude less energy than conventional monophasic pulsatile stimuli. Significance. The significance of this work is that it uses concepts from the theory of optimal control and introduces a novel approach in designing minimum energy charge-balanced input waveforms for neurons that are robust to noise and implementable in electrophysiological experiments.

40 CFR 63.1257 - Test methods and compliance procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

...)(2), or 63.1256(h)(2)(i)(C) with a minimum residence time of 0.5 seconds and a minimum temperature of... temperature of the organic HAP, must consider the vent stream flow rate, and must establish the design minimum and average temperature in the combustion zone and the combustion zone residence time. (B) For a...

40 CFR 63.1257 - Test methods and compliance procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...)(2), or 63.1256(h)(2)(i)(C) with a minimum residence time of 0.5 seconds and a minimum temperature of... temperature of the organic HAP, must consider the vent stream flow rate, and must establish the design minimum and average temperature in the combustion zone and the combustion zone residence time. (B) For a...

40 CFR 63.1257 - Test methods and compliance procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

...)(2), or 63.1256(h)(2)(i)(C) with a minimum residence time of 0.5 seconds and a minimum temperature of... temperature of the organic HAP, must consider the vent stream flow rate, and must establish the design minimum and average temperature in the combustion zone and the combustion zone residence time. (B) For a...

Desensitization and recovery of phototropic responsiveness in Arabidopsis thaliana

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Janoudi, A. K.; Poff, K. L.

1993-01-01

Phototropism is induced by blue light, which also induces desensitization, a partial or total loss of phototropic responsiveness. The fluence and fluence-rate dependence of desensitization and recovery from desensitization have been measured for etiolated and red light (669-nm) preirradiated Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. The extent of desensitization increased as the fluence of the desensitizing 450-nm light was increased from 0.3 to 60 micromoles m-2 s-1. At equal fluences, blue light caused more desensitization when given at a fluence rate of 1.0 micromole m-2 s-1 than at 0.3 micromole m-2 s-1. In addition, seedlings irradiated with blue light at the higher fluence rate required a longer recovery time than seedlings irradiated at the lower fluence rate. A red light preirradiation, probably mediated via phytochrome, decreased the time required for recovery from desensitization. The minimum time for detectable recovery was about 65 s, and the maximum time observed was about 10 min. It is proposed that the descending arm of the fluence-response relationship for first positive phototropism is a consequence of desensitization, and that the time threshold for second positive phototropism establishes a period during which recovery from desensitization occurs.

Effect of morning bright light on body temperature, plasma cortisol and wrist motility measured during 24 hour of constant conditions.

PubMed

Foret, J; Aguirre, A; Touitou, Y; Clodoré, M; Benoit, O

1993-06-11

Using 24 h constant conditions, time course of body temperature, plasma cortisol and wrist motility was measured in response to a 3 day morning 2 h bright light pulse. This protocol demonstrated that a 2000 lux illumination was sufficient to elicit a shift of about 2 h of temperature minimum and cortisol peak. In reference session, actimetric recordings showed a circadian time course, closely in relation with core temperature. Bright light pulse resulted in a decrease of amplitude and a disappearance of circadian pattern of actimetry.

Thermal modelling and control of 130kw direct contact (salt/air) heat exchanger

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qureshi, Omer A.; Calvet, Nicolas; Armstrong, Peter R.

2017-06-01

This work investigates the transient response of a certain type of direct contact heat exchanger (DCHX) that consists of packing (Raschig Rings) to increase the surface area for effective heat transfer between molten salt and air. Molten salt from the hot tank enters the heat exchanger (HX) and exit after heating the air still in the molten form. Thermal capacitance of the HX, mainly due to packing and resident salt inside the HX, results in strong transient response. Pure delay from salt residence time may also impact transient response. Both phenomena have been modelled in this paper. A Proportional-Integral controller (PI control) performance has been evaluated to maintain the minimum salt temperature above avoid crystallization temperature of the salt.

Predicting the response of populations to environmental change

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

Ives, A.R.

1995-04-01

When subject to long-term directional environmental perturbations, changes in population densities depend on the positive and negative feedbacks operating through interactions within and among species in a community. This paper develops techniques to predict the long-term responses of population densities to environmental changes using data on short-term population fluctuations driven by short-term environmental variability. In addition to giving quantitative predictions, the techniques also reveal how different qualitative patterns of species interactions either buffer or accentuate population responses to environmental trends. All of the predictions are based on regression coefficients extracted from time series data, and they can therefore be appliedmore » with a minimum of mathematical and statistical gymnastics. 48 refs., 10 figs., 4 tabs.« less

Organic carbon, and not copper, controls denitrification in oxygen minimum zones of the ocean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ward, Bess B.; Tuit, Caroline B.; Jayakumar, Amal; Rich, Jeremy J.; Moffett, James; Naqvi, S. Wajih A.

2008-12-01

Incubation experiments under trace metal clean conditions and ambient oxygen concentrations were used to investigate the response of microbial assemblages in oxygen minimum zones (OMZs) to additions of organic carbon and copper, two factors that might be expected to limit denitrification in the ocean. In the OMZs of the Eastern Tropical North and South Pacific, denitrification appeared to be limited by organic carbon; exponential cell growth and rapid nitrate and nitrite depletion occurred upon the addition of small amounts of carbon, but copper had no effect. In the OMZ of the Arabian Sea, neither carbon nor copper appeared to be limiting. We hypothesize that denitrification is variable in time and space in the OMZs in ways that may be predictable based on links to the episodic supply of organic substrates from overlying productive surface waters.

Evaluation of AQUI-S(TM) (efficacy and minimum toxic concentration) as a fish anaesthetic/sedative for public aquaculture in the United States

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stehly, G.R.; Gingerich, W.H.

1999-01-01

A preliminary evaluation of efficacy and minimum toxic concentration of AQUI-S(TM), a fish anaesthetic/sedative, was determined in two size classes of six species of fish important to US public aquaculture (bluegill, channel catfish, lake trout, rainbow trout, walleye and yellow perch). In addition, efficacy and minimum toxic concentration were determined in juvenile-young adult (fish aged 1 year or older) rainbow trout acclimated to water at 7 ??C, 12 ??C and 17 ??C. Testing concentrations were based on determinations made with range-finding studies for both efficacy and minimum toxic concentration. Most of the tested juvenile-young adult fish species were induced in 3 min or less at a nominal AQUI-S(TM) concentration of 20 mg L-1. In juvenile-young adult fish, the minimum toxic concentration was at least 2.5 times the selected efficacious concentration. Three out of five species of fry-fingerlings (1.25-12.5 cm in length and < 1 year old) were induced in ??? 4.1 min at a nominal concentration of 20 mg L-1 AQUI-S(TM), with the other two species requiring nominal concentrations of 25 and 35 mg L-1 for similar times of induction. Recovery times were ??? 7.3 rain for all species in the two size classes. In fry-fingerlings, the minimum toxic concentration was at least 1.4 times the selected efficacious concentration. There appeared to be little relationship between size of fish and concentrations or times to induction, recovery times and minimum toxic concentration. The times required for induction and for recovery were increased in rainbow trout as the acclimation temperature was reduced.

78 FR 39493 - Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Exchange Functions: Eligibility for Exemptions...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-07-01

...This final rule implements certain functions of the Affordable Insurance Exchanges (``Exchanges''). These specific statutory functions include determining eligibility for and granting certificates of exemption from the individual shared responsibility payment described in section 5000A of the Internal Revenue Code. Additionally, this final rule implements the responsibilities of the Secretary of Health and Human Services, in coordination with the Secretary of the Treasury, to designate other health benefits coverage as minimum essential coverage by providing that certain coverage be designated as minimum essential coverage. It also outlines substantive and procedural requirements that other types of individual coverage must fulfill in order to be certified as minimum essential coverage.

Solar Effects on Climate and the Maunder Minimum: Minimum Certainty

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rind, David

2003-01-01

The current state of our understanding of solar effects on climate is reviewed. As an example of the relevant issues, the climate during the Maunder Minimum is compared with current conditions in GCM simulations that include a full stratosphere and parameterized ozone response to solar spectral irradiance variability and trace gas changes. The GISS Global Climate/Middle Atmosphere Model coupled to a q-flux/mixed layer model is used for the simulations, which begin in 1500 and extend to the present. Experiments were made to investigate the effect of total versus spectrally-varying solar irradiance changes; spectrally-varying solar irradiance changes on the stratospheric ozone/climate response with both pre-industrial and present trace gases; and the impact on climate and stratospheric ozone of the preindustrial trace gases and aerosols by themselves. The results showed that: (1) the Maunder Minimum cooling relative to today was primarily associated with reduced anthropogenic radiative forcing, although the solar reduction added 40% to the overall cooling. There is no obvious distinguishing surface climate pattern between the two forcings. (2)The global and tropical response was greater than 1 C, in a model with a sensitivity of 1.2 C per W m-2. To reproduce recent low-end estimates would require a sensitivity 1/4 as large. (3) The global surface temperature change was similar when using the total and spectral irradiance prescriptions, although the tropical response was somewhat greater with the former, and the stratospheric response greater with the latter. (4) Most experiments produce a relative negative phase of the NAO/AO during the Maunder Minimum, with both solar and anthropogenic forcing equally capable, associated with the tropical cooling and relative poleward EP flux refraction. (5) A full stratosphere appeared to be necessary for the negative AO/NAO phase, as was the case with this model for global warming experiments, unless the cooling was very large, while the ozone response played a minor role and did not influence surface temperature significantly. (6) Stratospheric ozone was most affected by the difference between present day and preindustrial atmospheric composition and chemistry, with increases in the upper and lower stratosphere during the Maunder Minimum. While the estimated UV reduction led to ozone decreases, this was generally less important than the anthropogenic effect except in the upper middle stratosphere, as judged by two different ozone photochemistry schemes. (7) The effect of the reduced solar irradiance on stratospheric ozone and on climate was similar in Maunder Minimum and current atmospheric conditions.

Nonlinear Control Theory for Missile Autopilot Design.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-04-24

minimum-time controller which includes constraints on both controls and angle-of-attack is developed and an example is given. -12- - - -~ *% PO PmCF E- A...constructed. In this case, some ideas from robotics on minimum-time trajectory planning under path constraints (see, e.g., Rajan (1985), Sahar and...Auto Cont., Vol. AC-29, No. 4, p. 361. Rajan, V.T. (1985), "Minimum-Time Trajectory Planning ", Proc IEEE Kobotics and Automation Conf., St. Louis. Reed

Pelletized Asphalt for Airfield Damage Repair

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-08-01

The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing...terms of resistance to rutting because the binder will dissipate less energy as permanent deformation per load cycle (7). The high pavement... Vessel ) material at 10 radian/sec oscillatory shear and 31°C, and 5) a maximum stiffness of 300 MPa and a minimum creep slope of 0.3 at -12°C for the

26 CFR 5c.168(f)(8)-4 - Minimum investment of lessor.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 14 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Minimum investment of lessor. 5c.168(f)(8)-4....168(f)(8)-4 Minimum investment of lessor. (a) Minimum investment. Under section 168(f)(8)(B)(ii), an... has a minimum at risk investment which, at the time the property is placed in service under the lease...

26 CFR 5c.168(f)(8)-4 - Minimum investment of lessor.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 26 Internal Revenue 14 2011-04-01 2010-04-01 true Minimum investment of lessor. 5c.168(f)(8)-4....168(f)(8)-4 Minimum investment of lessor. (a) Minimum investment. Under section 168(f)(8)(B)(ii), an... has a minimum at risk investment which, at the time the property is placed in service under the lease...

High-speed pressure clamp.

PubMed

Besch, Stephen R; Suchyna, Thomas; Sachs, Frederick

2002-10-01

We built a high-speed, pneumatic pressure clamp to stimulate patch-clamped membranes mechanically. The key control element is a newly designed differential valve that uses a single, nickel-plated piezoelectric bending element to control both pressure and vacuum. To minimize response time, the valve body was designed with minimum dead volume. The result is improved response time and stability with a threefold decrease in actuation latency. Tight valve clearances minimize the steady-state air flow, permitting us to use small resonant-piston pumps to supply pressure and vacuum. To protect the valve from water contamination in the event of a broken pipette, an optical sensor detects water entering the valve and increases pressure rapidly to clear the system. The open-loop time constant for pressure is 2.5 ms for a 100-mmHg step, and the closed-loop settling time is 500-600 micros. Valve actuation latency is 120 micros. The system performance is illustrated for mechanically induced changes in patch capacitance.

Adaptive Fading Memory H∞ Filter Design for Compensation of Delayed Components in Self Powered Flux Detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tamboli, Prakash Kumar; Duttagupta, Siddhartha P.; Roy, Kallol

2015-08-01

The paper deals with dynamic compensation of delayed Self Powered Flux Detectors (SPFDs) using discrete time H∞ filtering method for improving the response of SPFDs with significant delayed components such as Platinum and Vanadium SPFD. We also present a comparative study between the Linear Matrix Inequality (LMI) based H∞ filtering and Algebraic Riccati Equation (ARE) based Kalman filtering methods with respect to their delay compensation capabilities. Finally an improved recursive H∞ filter based on the adaptive fading memory technique is proposed which provides an improved performance over existing methods. The existing delay compensation algorithms do not account for the rate of change in the signal for determining the filter gain and therefore add significant noise during the delay compensation process. The proposed adaptive fading memory H∞ filter minimizes the overall noise very effectively at the same time keeps the response time at minimum values. The recursive algorithm is easy to implement in real time as compared to the LMI (or ARE) based solutions.

A Cross-sectional Analysis of Minimum USMLE Step 1 and 2 Criteria Used by Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Programs in Screening Residency Applications.

PubMed

Schrock, John B; Kraeutler, Matthew J; Dayton, Michael R; McCarty, Eric C

2017-06-01

The purpose of this study was to analyze how program directors (PDs) of orthopaedic surgery residency programs use United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 and 2 scores in screening residency applicants. A survey was sent to each allopathic orthopaedic surgery residency PD. PDs were asked if they currently use minimum Step 1 and/or 2 scores in screening residency applicants and if these criteria have changed in recent years. Responses were received from 113 of 151 PDs (75%). One program did not have the requested information and five declined participation, leaving 107 responses analyzed. Eighty-nine programs used a minimum USMLE Step 1 score (83%). Eighty-three programs (78%) required a Step 1 score ≥210, 80 (75%) required a score ≥220, 57 (53%) required a score ≥230, and 22 (21%) required a score ≥240. Multiple PDs mentioned the high volume of applications as a reason for using a minimum score and for increasing the minimum score in recent years. A large proportion of orthopaedic surgery residency PDs use a USMLE Step 1 minimum score when screening applications in an effort to reduce the number of applications to be reviewed.

Statistical Comparison of Anomalous Cosmic Rays and Galactic Cosmic Rays during the Recently Consecutive Unusual Solar Cycles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, L.; Zhang, H.

2014-12-01

Anomalous cosmic rays (ACRs) carry crucial information on the coupling between solar wind and interstellar medium, as well as cosmic ray modulation within the heliosphere. Due to the distinct origins and modulation processes, the spectra and abundance of ACRs are significantly different from that of galactic cosmic rays (GCRs). Since the launch of NASA's ACE spacecraft in 1997, its CRIS and SIS instruments have continuously recorded GCR and ACR intensities of several elemental heavy-ions, spanning the whole cycle 23 and the cycle 24 maximum. Here we present a statistical comparison of ACR and GCR observed by ACE spacecraft and their possible relation to solar activity. While the differential flux of ACR also exhibits apparent anti-correlation with solar activity level, the flux of the latest prolonged solar minimum (year 2009) is approximately 5% lower than its previous solar minimum (year 1997). And the minimal level of ACR flux appears in year 2004, instead of year 2001 with the strongest solar activities. The negative indexes of the power law spectra within the energy range from 5 to 30 MeV/nuc also vary with time. The spectra get harder during the solar minimum but softer during the solar maximum. The approaching solar minimum of cycle 24 is believed to resemble the Dalton or Gleissberg Minimum with extremely low solar activity (Zolotova and Ponyavin, 2014). Therefore, the different characteristics of ACRs between the coming solar minimum and the previous minimum are also of great interest. Finally, we will also discuss the possible solar-modulation processes which is responsible for different modulation of ACR and GCR, especially the roles played by diffusion and drifts. The comparative analysis will provide valuable insights into the physical modulation process within the heliosphere under opposite solar polarity and variable solar activity levels.

Human dopamine receptor nanovesicles for gate-potential modulators in high-performance field-effect transistor biosensors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Seon Joo; Song, Hyun Seok; Kwon, Oh Seok; Chung, Ji Hyun; Lee, Seung Hwan; An, Ji Hyun; Ahn, Sae Ryun; Lee, Ji Eun; Yoon, Hyeonseok; Park, Tai Hyun; Jang, Jyongsik

2014-03-01

The development of molecular detection that allows rapid responses with high sensitivity and selectivity remains challenging. Herein, we demonstrate the strategy of novel bio-nanotechnology to successfully fabricate high-performance dopamine (DA) biosensor using DA Receptor-containing uniform-particle-shaped Nanovesicles-immobilized Carboxylated poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (CPEDOT) NTs (DRNCNs). DA molecules are commonly associated with serious diseases, such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. For the first time, nanovesicles containing a human DA receptor D1 (hDRD1) were successfully constructed from HEK-293 cells, stably expressing hDRD1. The nanovesicles containing hDRD1 as gate-potential modulator on the conducting polymer (CP) nanomaterial transistors provided high-performance responses to DA molecule owing to their uniform, monodispersive morphologies and outstanding discrimination ability. Specifically, the DRNCNs were integrated into a liquid-ion gated field-effect transistor (FET) system via immobilization and attachment processes, leading to high sensitivity and excellent selectivity toward DA in liquid state. Unprecedentedly, the minimum detectable level (MDL) from the field-induced DA responses was as low as 10 pM in real- time, which is 10 times more sensitive than that of previously reported CP based-DA biosensors. Moreover, the FET-type DRNCN biosensor had a rapid response time (<1 s) and showed excellent selectivity in human serum.

Recent Immigrants as Labor Market Arbitrageurs: Evidence from the Minimum Wage.

PubMed

Cadena, Brian C

2014-03-01

This paper investigates the local labor supply effects of changes to the minimum wage by examining the response of low-skilled immigrants' location decisions. Canonical models emphasize the importance of labor mobility when evaluating the employment effects of the minimum wage; yet few studies address this outcome directly. Low-skilled immigrant populations shift toward labor markets with stagnant minimum wages, and this result is robust to a number of alternative interpretations. This mobility provides behavior-based evidence in favor of a non-trivial negative employment effect of the minimum wage. Further, it reduces the estimated demand elasticity using teens; employment losses among native teens are substantially larger in states that have historically attracted few immigrant residents.

Application of quadratic optimization to supersonic inlet control.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lehtinen, B.; Zeller, J. R.

1972-01-01

This paper describes the application of linear stochastic optimal control theory to the design of the control system for the air intake, the inlet, of a supersonic air-breathing propulsion system. The controls must maintain a stable inlet shock position in the presence of random airflow disturbances and prevent inlet unstart. Two different linear time invariant controllers are developed. One is designed to minimize a nonquadratic index, the expected frequency of inlet unstart, and the other is designed to minimize the mean square value of inlet shock motion. The quadratic equivalence principle is used to obtain a linear controller that minimizes the nonquadratic index. The two controllers are compared on the basis of unstart prevention, control effort requirements, and frequency response. It is concluded that while controls designed to minimize unstarts are desirable in that the index minimized is physically meaningful, computation time required is longer than for the minimum mean square shock position approach. The simpler minimum mean square shock position solution produced expected unstart frequency values which were not significantly larger than those of the nonquadratic solution.

Tolerance response of multidrug-resistant Salmonella enterica strains to habituation to Origanum vulgare L. essential oil

PubMed Central

Monte, Daniel F. M.; Tavares, Adassa G.; Albuquerque, Allan R.; Sampaio, Fábio C.; Oliveira, Tereza C. R. M.; Franco, Octavio L.; Souza, Evandro L.; Magnani, Marciane

2014-01-01

Multidrug-resistant Salmonella enterica isolates from human outbreaks or from poultry origin were investigated for their ability to develop direct-tolerance or cross-tolerance to sodium chloride, potassium chloride, lactic acid, acetic acid, and ciprofloxacin after habituation in subinhibitory amounts ( of the minimum inhibitory concentration – (MIC) and of the minimum inhibitory concentration – MIC) of Origanum vulgare L. essential oil (OVEO) at different time intervals. The habituation of S. enterica to OVEO did not induce direct-tolerance or cross-tolerance in the tested strains, as assessed by the modulation of MIC values. However, cells habituated to OVEO maintained or increased susceptibility to the tested antimicrobials agents, with up to fourfold double dilution decrease from previously determined MIC values. This study reports for the first time the non-inductive effect of OVEO on the acquisition of direct-tolerance or cross-tolerance in multidrug-resistant S. enterica strains to antimicrobial agents that are largely used in food preservation, as well as to CIP, the therapeutic drug of salmonellosis. PMID:25566231

A Method for Modeling Household Occupant Behavior to Simulate Residential Energy Consumption

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

Johnson, Brandon J; Starke, Michael R; Abdelaziz, Omar

2014-01-01

This paper presents a statistical method for modeling the behavior of household occupants to estimate residential energy consumption. Using data gathered by the U.S. Census Bureau in the American Time Use Survey (ATUS), actions carried out by survey respondents are categorized into ten distinct activities. These activities are defined to correspond to the major energy consuming loads commonly found within the residential sector. Next, time varying minute resolution Markov chain based statistical models of different occupant types are developed. Using these behavioral models, individual occupants are simulated to show how an occupant interacts with the major residential energy consuming loadsmore » throughout the day. From these simulations, the minimum number of occupants, and consequently the minimum number of multiple occupant households, needing to be simulated to produce a statistically accurate representation of aggregate residential behavior can be determined. Finally, future work will involve the use of these occupant models along side residential load models to produce a high-resolution energy consumption profile and estimate the potential for demand response from residential loads.« less

Fast computation of an optimal controller for large-scale adaptive optics.

PubMed

Massioni, Paolo; Kulcsár, Caroline; Raynaud, Henri-François; Conan, Jean-Marc

2011-11-01

The linear quadratic Gaussian regulator provides the minimum-variance control solution for a linear time-invariant system. For adaptive optics (AO) applications, under the hypothesis of a deformable mirror with instantaneous response, such a controller boils down to a minimum-variance phase estimator (a Kalman filter) and a projection onto the mirror space. The Kalman filter gain can be computed by solving an algebraic Riccati matrix equation, whose computational complexity grows very quickly with the size of the telescope aperture. This "curse of dimensionality" makes the standard solvers for Riccati equations very slow in the case of extremely large telescopes. In this article, we propose a way of computing the Kalman gain for AO systems by means of an approximation that considers the turbulence phase screen as the cropped version of an infinite-size screen. We demonstrate the advantages of the methods for both off- and on-line computational time, and we evaluate its performance for classical AO as well as for wide-field tomographic AO with multiple natural guide stars. Simulation results are reported.

Financial Implications of Half- and Full-Time Employment for Persons with Disabilities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schloss, Patrick J.; And Others

1987-01-01

Balance sheets comparing yearly income and expenses were developed for three disabled worker situations: no earned income, half-time minimum-wage job, and full-time minimum-wage job. Net disposable income was comparable for part-time and full-time disabled workers, since eligibility for Medicaid, Food Stamps, and Supplemental Security Income was…

Spotless

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2008-01-01

Everything runs in cycles and what goes up must come down. We hear that a lot these days. The topic of conversation is of course the sun. The solar cycle takes 11 years to go from sunspot minimum to maximum and back to minimum. The cycle is driven by changes in the Sun's magnetic field, and is actually a 22-year cycle: during the second 11 years the magnetic polarity of the solar field is reversed. The Solar and Heliospheric Observatory satellite (or SOHO for short), a joint ESA and NASA mission, has been watching the sun since 1995. Rarely is the sun as quiet as it was on September 27, 2008 - as shown in the visible-light image above left, there were absolutely no sunspots to be seen. If the activity stays this low, this might be the most inactive the Sun has been since the dawn of the space age. This still pales in comparison to the 17th century when for a period of 70 years (called the Maunder Minimum) there were no reported sunspots. Some scientists believe the Maunder Minimum responsible for a 'Little Ice Age' and the sound of some violins. The image on the right, taken 3 days later in extreme UV light, shows the formation of two active regions (in the circles) but both faded away before becoming full-fledged spots. So how low will it go? Only time will tell.

Barriers and dispersal surfaces in minimum-time interception. [for optimizing aircraft flight paths

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rajan, N.; Ardema, M. D.

1984-01-01

A method is proposed for mapping the barrier, dispersal, and control-level surfaces for a class of minimum-time interception and pursuit-evasion problems. Minimum-time interception of a target moving in a horizontal plane is formulated in a coordinate system whose origin is at the interceptor's terminal position and whose x-axis is along the terminal line of sight. This approach makes it possible to discuss the nature of the interceptor's extremals, using its extremal trajectory maps (ETMs), independently of target motion. The game surfaces are constructed by drawing sections of the isochrones, or constant minimum-time loci, from the interceptor and target ETMs. In this way, feedback solutions for the optimal controls are obtained. An example involving the interception of a target moving in a straight line at constant speed is presented.

34 CFR 668.3 - Academic year.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...— (1)(i) For a program offered in credit hours, a minimum of 30 weeks of instructional time; or (ii) For a program offered in clock hours, a minimum of 26 weeks of instructional time; and (2) For an undergraduate educational program, an amount of instructional time whereby a full-time student is expected to...

Performance evaluation of the inverse dynamics method for optimal spacecraft reorientation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ventura, Jacopo; Romano, Marcello; Walter, Ulrich

2015-05-01

This paper investigates the application of the inverse dynamics in the virtual domain method to Euler angles, quaternions, and modified Rodrigues parameters for rapid optimal attitude trajectory generation for spacecraft reorientation maneuvers. The impact of the virtual domain and attitude representation is numerically investigated for both minimum time and minimum energy problems. Owing to the nature of the inverse dynamics method, it yields sub-optimal solutions for minimum time problems. Furthermore, the virtual domain improves the optimality of the solution, but at the cost of more computational time. The attitude representation also affects solution quality and computational speed. For minimum energy problems, the optimal solution can be obtained without the virtual domain with any considered attitude representation.

A kernel-based novelty detection scheme for the ultra-fast detection of chirp evoked Auditory Brainstem Responses.

PubMed

Corona-Strauss, Farah I; Delb, Wolfgang; Schick, Bernhard; Strauss, Daniel J

2010-01-01

Auditory Brainstem Responses (ABRs) are used as objective method for diagnostics and quantification of hearing loss. Many methods for automatic recognition of ABRs have been developed, but none of them include the individual measurement setup in the analysis. The purpose of this work was to design a fast recognition scheme for chirp-evoked ABRs that is adjusted to the individual measurement condition using spontaneous electroencephalographic activity (SA). For the classification, the kernel-based novelty detection scheme used features based on the inter-sweep instantaneous phase synchronization as well as energy and entropy relations in the time-frequency domain. This method provided SA discrimination from stimulations above the hearing threshold with a minimum number of sweeps, i.e., 200 individual responses. It is concluded that the proposed paradigm, processing procedures and stimulation techniques improve the detection of ABRs in terms of the degree of objectivity, i.e., automation of procedure, and measurement time.

Requirements and Architecture Specification of the Joint Multi-Role (JMR) Joint Common Architecture (JCA) Demonstration System

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

response time re- quirements and in additional calibration requirements for DCFM that may create unexpected la - tency and latency jitter that can...manage the flight path of the aircraft. For more information about sensor correlation and fusion processes, the Air University New World Vistas ...request/reply actions. We specify its la - tency as a minimum and maximum of 300 ms.  SADataServiceProtocol: an abstraction of the SA data service as a

Sunspot variation and selected associated phenomena: A look at solar cycle 21 and beyond

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, R. M.

1982-01-01

Solar sunspot cycles 8 through 21 are reviewed. Mean time intervals are calculated for maximum to maximum, minimum to minimum, minimum to maximum, and maximum to minimum phases for cycles 8 through 20 and 8 through 21. Simple cosine functions with a period of 132 years are compared to, and found to be representative of, the variation of smoothed sunspot numbers at solar maximum and minimum. A comparison of cycles 20 and 21 is given, leading to a projection for activity levels during the Spacelab 2 era (tentatively, November 1984). A prediction is made for cycle 22. Major flares are observed to peak several months subsequent to the solar maximum during cycle 21 and to be at minimum level several months after the solar minimum. Additional remarks are given for flares, gradual rise and fall radio events and 2800 MHz radio emission. Certain solar activity parameters, especially as they relate to the near term Spacelab 2 time frame are estimated.

Diagnosis of Middle Atmosphere Climate Sensitivity by the Climate Feedback Response Analysis Method

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhu, Xun; Yee, Jeng-Hwa; Cai, Ming; Swartz, William H.; Coy, Lawrence; Aquila, Valentina; Talaat, Elsayed R.

2014-01-01

We present a new method to diagnose the middle atmosphere climate sensitivity by extending the Climate Feedback-Response Analysis Method (CFRAM) for the coupled atmosphere-surface system to the middle atmosphere. The Middle atmosphere CFRAM (MCFRAM) is built on the atmospheric energy equation per unit mass with radiative heating and cooling rates as its major thermal energy sources. MCFRAM preserves the CFRAM unique feature of an additive property for which the sum of all partial temperature changes due to variations in external forcing and feedback processes equals the observed temperature change. In addition, MCFRAM establishes a physical relationship of radiative damping between the energy perturbations associated with various feedback processes and temperature perturbations associated with thermal responses. MCFRAM is applied to both measurements and model output fields to diagnose the middle atmosphere climate sensitivity. It is found that the largest component of the middle atmosphere temperature response to the 11-year solar cycle (solar maximum vs. solar minimum) is directly from the partial temperature change due to the variation of the input solar flux. Increasing CO2 always cools the middle atmosphere with time whereas partial temperature change due to O3 variation could be either positive or negative. The partial temperature changes due to different feedbacks show distinctly different spatial patterns. The thermally driven globally averaged partial temperature change due to all radiative processes is approximately equal to the observed temperature change, ranging from 0.5 K near 70 km from the near solar maximum to the solar minimum.

Preparing routine health information systems for immediate health responses to disasters

PubMed Central

Aung, Eindra; Whittaker, Maxine

2013-01-01

During disaster times, we need specific information to rapidly plan a disaster response, especially in sudden-onset disasters. Due to the inadequate capacity of Routine Health Information Systems (RHIS), many developing countries face a lack of quality pre-disaster health-related data and efficient post-disaster data processes in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. Considering the significance of local capacity during the early stages of disaster response, RHIS at local, provincial/state and national levels need to be strengthened so that they provide relief personnel up-to-date information to plan, organize and monitor immediate relief activities. RHIS professionals should be aware of specific information needs in disaster response (according to the Sphere Project’s Humanitarian Minimum Standards) and requirements in data processes to fulfil those information needs. Preparing RHIS for disasters can be guided by key RHIS-strengthening frameworks; and disaster preparedness must be incorporated into countries’ RHIS. Mechanisms must be established in non-disaster times and maintained between RHIS and information systems of non-health sectors for exchanging disaster-related information and sharing technologies and cost. PMID:23002249

A Novel Method to Increase LinLog CMOS Sensors’ Performance in High Dynamic Range Scenarios

PubMed Central

Martínez-Sánchez, Antonio; Fernández, Carlos; Navarro, Pedro J.; Iborra, Andrés

2011-01-01

Images from high dynamic range (HDR) scenes must be obtained with minimum loss of information. For this purpose it is necessary to take full advantage of the quantification levels provided by the CCD/CMOS image sensor. LinLog CMOS sensors satisfy the above demand by offering an adjustable response curve that combines linear and logarithmic responses. This paper presents a novel method to quickly adjust the parameters that control the response curve of a LinLog CMOS image sensor. We propose to use an Adaptive Proportional-Integral-Derivative controller to adjust the exposure time of the sensor, together with control algorithms based on the saturation level and the entropy of the images. With this method the sensor’s maximum dynamic range (120 dB) can be used to acquire good quality images from HDR scenes with fast, automatic adaptation to scene conditions. Adaptation to a new scene is rapid, with a sensor response adjustment of less than eight frames when working in real time video mode. At least 67% of the scene entropy can be retained with this method. PMID:22164083

A novel method to increase LinLog CMOS sensors' performance in high dynamic range scenarios.

PubMed

Martínez-Sánchez, Antonio; Fernández, Carlos; Navarro, Pedro J; Iborra, Andrés

2011-01-01

Images from high dynamic range (HDR) scenes must be obtained with minimum loss of information. For this purpose it is necessary to take full advantage of the quantification levels provided by the CCD/CMOS image sensor. LinLog CMOS sensors satisfy the above demand by offering an adjustable response curve that combines linear and logarithmic responses. This paper presents a novel method to quickly adjust the parameters that control the response curve of a LinLog CMOS image sensor. We propose to use an Adaptive Proportional-Integral-Derivative controller to adjust the exposure time of the sensor, together with control algorithms based on the saturation level and the entropy of the images. With this method the sensor's maximum dynamic range (120 dB) can be used to acquire good quality images from HDR scenes with fast, automatic adaptation to scene conditions. Adaptation to a new scene is rapid, with a sensor response adjustment of less than eight frames when working in real time video mode. At least 67% of the scene entropy can be retained with this method.

Harmony search optimization in dimensional accuracy of die sinking EDM process using SS316L stainless steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deris, A. M.; Zain, A. M.; Sallehuddin, R.; Sharif, S.

2017-09-01

Electric discharge machine (EDM) is one of the widely used nonconventional machining processes for hard and difficult to machine materials. Due to the large number of machining parameters in EDM and its complicated structural, the selection of the optimal solution of machining parameters for obtaining minimum machining performance is remain as a challenging task to the researchers. This paper proposed experimental investigation and optimization of machining parameters for EDM process on stainless steel 316L work piece using Harmony Search (HS) algorithm. The mathematical model was developed based on regression approach with four input parameters which are pulse on time, peak current, servo voltage and servo speed to the output response which is dimensional accuracy (DA). The optimal result of HS approach was compared with regression analysis and it was found HS gave better result y giving the most minimum DA value compared with regression approach.

40 CFR 63.1365 - Test methods and initial compliance procedures.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... design minimum and average temperature in the combustion zone and the combustion zone residence time. (B... establish the design minimum and average flame zone temperatures and combustion zone residence time, and... carbon bed temperature after regeneration, design carbon bed regeneration time, and design service life...

Computational analysis of particle reinforced viscoelastic polymer nanocomposites - statistical study of representative volume element

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Anqi; Li, Xiaolin; Ajdari, Amin; Jiang, Bing; Burkhart, Craig; Chen, Wei; Brinson, L. Catherine

2018-05-01

The concept of representative volume element (RVE) is widely used to determine the effective material properties of random heterogeneous materials. In the present work, the RVE is investigated for the viscoelastic response of particle-reinforced polymer nanocomposites in the frequency domain. The smallest RVE size and the minimum number of realizations at a given volume size for both structural and mechanical properties are determined for a given precision using the concept of margin of error. It is concluded that using the mean of many realizations of a small RVE instead of a single large RVE can retain the desired precision of a result with much lower computational cost (up to three orders of magnitude reduced computation time) for the property of interest. Both the smallest RVE size and the minimum number of realizations for a microstructure with higher volume fraction (VF) are larger compared to those of one with lower VF at the same desired precision. Similarly, a clustered structure is shown to require a larger minimum RVE size as well as a larger number of realizations at a given volume size compared to the well-dispersed microstructures.

Does the Minimum Wage Affect Welfare Caseloads?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Page, Marianne E.; Spetz, Joanne; Millar, Jane

2005-01-01

Although minimum wages are advocated as a policy that will help the poor, few studies have examined their effect on poor families. This paper uses variation in minimum wages across states and over time to estimate the impact of minimum wage legislation on welfare caseloads. We find that the elasticity of the welfare caseload with respect to the…

Recent Immigrants as Labor Market Arbitrageurs: Evidence from the Minimum Wage*

PubMed Central

Cadena, Brian C.

2014-01-01

This paper investigates the local labor supply effects of changes to the minimum wage by examining the response of low-skilled immigrants’ location decisions. Canonical models emphasize the importance of labor mobility when evaluating the employment effects of the minimum wage; yet few studies address this outcome directly. Low-skilled immigrant populations shift toward labor markets with stagnant minimum wages, and this result is robust to a number of alternative interpretations. This mobility provides behavior-based evidence in favor of a non-trivial negative employment effect of the minimum wage. Further, it reduces the estimated demand elasticity using teens; employment losses among native teens are substantially larger in states that have historically attracted few immigrant residents. PMID:24999288

Solving constrained minimum-time robot problems using the sequential gradient restoration algorithm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lee, Allan Y.

1991-01-01

Three constrained minimum-time control problems of a two-link manipulator are solved using the Sequential Gradient and Restoration Algorithm (SGRA). The inequality constraints considered are reduced via Valentine-type transformations to nondifferential path equality constraints. The SGRA is then used to solve these transformed problems with equality constraints. The results obtained indicate that at least one of the two controls is at its limits at any instant in time. The remaining control then adjusts itself so that none of the system constraints is violated. Hence, the minimum-time control is either a pure bang-bang control or a combined bang-bang/singular control.

The impact of environmental factors on marine turtle stranding rates

PubMed Central

Flint, Mark; Limpus, Colin J.; Mills, Paul C.

2017-01-01

Globally, tropical and subtropical regions have experienced an increased frequency and intensity in extreme weather events, ranging from severe drought to protracted rain depressions and cyclones, these coincided with an increased number of marine turtles subsequently reported stranded. This study investigated the relationship between environmental variables and marine turtle stranding. The environmental variables examined in this study, in descending order of importance, were freshwater discharge, monthly mean maximum and minimum air temperatures, monthly average daily diurnal air temperature difference and rainfall for the latitudinal hotspots (-27°, -25°, -23°, -19°) along the Queensland coast as well as for major embayments within these blocks. This study found that marine turtle strandings can be linked to these environmental variables at different lag times (3–12 months), and that cumulative (months added together for maximum lag) and non-cumulative (single month only) effects cause different responses. Different latitudes also showed different responses of marine turtle strandings, both in response direction and timing.Cumulative effects of freshwater discharge in all latitudes resulted in increased strandings 10–12 months later. For latitudes -27°, -25° and -23° non-cumulative effects for discharge resulted in increased strandings 7–12 months later. Latitude -19° had different results for the non-cumulative bay with strandings reported earlier (3–6 months). Monthly mean maximum and minimum air temperatures, monthly average daily diurnal air temperature difference and rainfall had varying results for each examined latitude. This study will allow first responders and resource managers to be better equipped to deal with increased marine turtle stranding rates following extreme weather events. PMID:28771635

Unusual behavior of quiet-time zonal and vertical plasma drift velocities over Jicamarca during the recent extended solar minimum of 2008

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Santos, Ângela M.; Abdu, Mangalathayil A.; Souza, Jonas R.; Batista, Inez S.; Sobral, José H. A.

2017-11-01

The influence of the recent deep and prolonged solar minimum on the daytime zonal and vertical plasma drift velocities during quiet time is investigated in this work. Analyzing the data obtained from incoherent scatter radar from Jicamarca (11.95° S, 76.87° W) we observe an anomalous behavior of the zonal plasma drift during June 2008 characterized by lower than usual daytime westward drift and its early afternoon reversal to eastward. As a case study the zonal drift observed on 24 June 2008 is modeled using a realistic low-latitude ionosphere simulated by the Sheffield University Plasmasphere-Ionosphere Model-INPE (SUPIM-INPE). The results show that an anomalously low zonal wind was mainly responsible for the observed anomalous behavior in the zonal drift. A comparative study of the vertical plasma drifts obtained from magnetometer data for some periods of maximum (2000-2002) and minimum solar activity (1998, 2008, 2010) phases reveal a considerable decrease on the E-region conductivity and the dynamo electric field during 2008. However, we believe that the contribution of these characteristics to the unusual behavior of the zonal plasma drift is significantly smaller than that arising from the anomalously low zonal wind. The SUPIM-INPE result of the critical frequency of the F layer (foF2) over Jicamarca suggested a lower radiation flux than that predicted by solar irradiance model (SOLAR2000) for June 2008.

40 CFR Table 6 to Subpart Dddd of... - Model Rule-Emission Limitations That Apply to Incinerators on and After [Date to be specified in...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... per million dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 10... (Reapproved 2008) c. Oxides of nitrogen 53 parts per million dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample... average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 6 or 6c at 40 CFR part 60, appendix...

40 CFR Table 6 to Subpart Dddd of... - Model Rule-Emission Limitations That Apply to Incinerators on and After [Date to be specified in...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... per million dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 10... (Reapproved 2008) c. Oxides of nitrogen 53 parts per million dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample... average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 6 or 6c at 40 CFR part 60, appendix...

40 CFR Table 2 to Subpart Dddd of... - Model Rule-Emission Limitations That Apply to Incinerators Before [Date to be specified in state...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test..., appendix A-4). Oxides of nitrogen 388 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample... (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 6 or 6c of appendix A of this part) a...

40 CFR Table 2 to Subpart Dddd of... - Model Rule-Emission Limitations That Apply to Incinerators Before [Date to be specified in state...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test..., appendix A-4). Oxides of nitrogen 388 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample... (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 6 or 6c of appendix A of this part) a...

Global Distribution and Variations of NO Infrared Radiative Flux and Its Responses to Solar Activity and Geomagnetic Activity in the Thermosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tang, Chaoli; Wei, Yuanyuan; Liu, Dong; Luo, Tao; Dai, Congming; Wei, Heli

2017-12-01

The global distribution and variations of NO infrared radiative flux (NO-IRF) are presented during 2002-2016 in the thermosphere covering 100-280 km altitude based on Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) data set. For investigating the spatial variations of the mutual relationship between NO-IRF and solar activity, the altitude ranges from 100 km to 280 km are divided into 90 altitude bins, and the latitude regions of 83°S-83°N are divided into 16 latitude bins. By processing about 1.8E9 NO-IRF observation values from about 5E6 vertical nighttime profiles recorded in SABER data set, we obtained more than 4.1E8 samples of NO-IRF. The annual-mean values of NO-IRF are then calculated by all available NO-IRF samples within each latitude and altitude bin. Local latitudinal maxima in NO-IRF are found between 120 and 145 km altitude, and the maximum NO-IRF located at polar regions are 3 times more than that of the minimum at equatorial region. The influences of solar and geomagnetic activity on the spatial variations of NO-IRF are investigated. Both the NO-IRF and its response to solar and geomagnetic activity show nearly symmetric distribution between the two hemispheres. It is demonstrated that the observed changes in NO-IRF at altitudes between 100 and 225 km correlate well with the changes in solar activity. The NO-IRF at solar maximum is about 4 times than that at solar minimum, and the current maximum of NO-IRF in 2014 is less than 70% of the prior maximum in 2001. For the first time, the response ranges of the NO-IRF to solar and geomagnetic activity at different altitudes and latitudes are reported.

Ascent trajectory optimization for stratospheric airship with thermal effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Xiao; Zhu, Ming

2013-09-01

Ascent trajectory optimization with thermal effects is addressed for a stratospheric airship. Basic thermal characteristics of the stratospheric airship are introduced. Besides, the airship’s equations of motion are constructed by including the factors about aerodynamic force, added mass and wind profiles which are developed based on horizontal-wind model. For both minimum-time and minimum-energy flights during ascent, the trajectory optimization problem is described with the path and terminal constraints in different scenarios and then, is converted into a parameter optimization problem by a direct collocation method. Sparse Nonlinear OPTimizer(SNOPT) is employed as a nonlinear programming solver and two scenarios are adopted. The solutions obtained illustrate that the trajectories are greatly affected by the thermal behaviors which prolong the daytime minimum-time flights of about 20.8% compared with that of nighttime in scenario 1 and of about 10.5% in scenario 2. And there is the same trend for minimum-energy flights. For the energy consumption of minimum-time flights, 6% decrease is abstained in scenario 1 and 5% decrease in scenario 2. However, a few energy consumption reduction is achieved for minimum-energy flights. Solar radiation is the principal component and the natural wind also affects the thermal behaviors of stratospheric airship during ascent. The relationship between take-off time and performance of airship during ascent is discussed. it is found that the take-off time at dusk is best choice for stratospheric airship. And in addition, for saving energy, airship prefers to fly downwind.

An Examination of Sunspot Number Rates of Growth and Decay in Relation to the Sunspot Cycle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, Robert M.; Hathaway, David H.

2006-01-01

On the basis of annual sunspot number averages, sunspot number rates of growth and decay are examined relative to both minimum and maximum amplitudes and the time of their occurrences using cycles 12 through present, the most reliably determined sunspot cycles. Indeed, strong correlations are found for predicting the minimum and maximum amplitudes and the time of their occurrences years in advance. As applied to predicting sunspot minimum for cycle 24, the next cycle, its minimum appears likely to occur in 2006, especially if it is a robust cycle similar in nature to cycles 17-23.

The usage of phage mini-antibodies as a means of detecting ferritin concentration in animal blood serum.

PubMed

Staroverov, Sergey A; Volkov, Alexei A; Fomin, Alexander S; Laskavuy, Vladislav N; Mezhennyy, Pavel V; Kozlov, Sergey V; Larionov, Sergey V; Fedorov, Michael V; Dykman, Lev A; Guliy, Olga I

2015-01-01

Mini-antibodies that have specific ferritin response have been produced for the first time using sheep's phage libraries (Griffin.1, Medical Research Council, Cambridge, UK). Produced phage antibodies were used for the first time for the development of diagnostic test kits for ferritin detection in the blood of cattle. The immunodot assay with secondary biospecific labeling is suggested as means of ferritin detection in cow blood serum (antiferritin phage antibodies and rabbit antiphage antibodies conjugated with different labels). Сolloidal gold, gold nanoshells, and horse reddish peroxidase used as labels have shown a similar response while detecting concentration of ferritin (0.2 mg/mL). It is shown that the method of solid-phase immunoassay with a visual view of the results allows determination of the minimum concentration of ferritin in the blood of cows at 0.225 g/mL.

Broad-Band Pump-Probe Spectroscopy Quantifies Ultrafast Solvation Dynamics of Proteins and Molecules.

PubMed

Jumper, Chanelle C; Arpin, Paul C; Turner, Daniel B; McClure, Scott D; Rafiq, Shahnawaz; Dean, Jacob C; Cina, Jeffrey A; Kovac, Philip A; Mirkovic, Tihana; Scholes, Gregory D

2016-11-17

In this work, we demonstrate the use of broad-band pump-probe spectroscopy to measure femtosecond solvation dynamics. We report studies of a rhodamine dye in methanol and cryptophyte algae light-harvesting proteins in aqueous suspension. Broad-band impulsive excitation generates a vibrational wavepacket that oscillates on the excited-state potential energy surface, destructively interfering with itself at the minimum of the surface. This destructive interference gives rise to a node at a certain probe wavelength that varies with time. This reveals the Gibbs free-energy changes of the excited-state potential energy surface, which equates to the solvation time correlation function. This method captures the inertial solvent response of water (∼40 fs) and the bimodal inertial response of methanol (∼40 and ∼150 fs) and reveals how protein-buried chromophores are sensitive to the solvent dynamics inside and outside of the protein environment.

Actively Q-switched, thulium-holmium-codoped fiber laser incorporating a silicon-based, variable-optical-attenuator-based Q switch.

PubMed

Jung, Minwan; Han Lee, Ju

2013-04-20

An actively Q-switched thulium-holmium-codoped fiber laser incorporating an Si-based variable optical attenuator (VOA) is experimentally demonstrated. It has been shown that an Si-based VOA with a response time of hundreds of nanoseconds can be used as a cost-effective 2 μm Q switch due to its extremely wide operating bandwidth from 1.5 to 2 μm, and low electrical power consumption. In our study, the laser's slope efficiency was measured to be ~17% at an operating wavelength of 1.89 μm. The repetition rate tuning range was from 20 to 80 kHz, which was limited by the optical damage threshold and the response time. The minimum temporal pulsewidth was measured to be ~184 ns at a modulation frequency of 20 kHz, and the corresponding maximum peak power was ~10 W.

Surgical scrubbing: can we clean up our carbon footprints by washing our hands?

PubMed

Somner, J E A; Stone, N; Koukkoulli, A; Scott, K M; Field, A R; Zygmunt, J

2008-11-01

A growing scientific consensus states that the global climate is changing and that human activity is responsible for these changes. It folLows that each of us has a responsibility to look at how our own lives impact on the environment. This study aimed to investigate water use during surgical scrubbing. Two water delivery systems were assessed to see whether technological innovation can promote more 'environmentally friendly' scrubbing behaviour. At least 10 different individuals, comprising surgeons, assistants and scrub nurses, were observed at two sites. Twenty-five separate surgical scrubs were observed in each location and the length of time for which the tap was on recorded. The tap was on during surgical scrubbing for a mean of 2 min 23 s at Gartnavel General Hospital (maximum: 4 min 37 s; minimum: 49 s; SD: 55 s) and for a mean of 1 min 7 s at Stobhill Hospital (maximum: 2 min 25 s; minimum: 19 s; SD: 33 s). The mean 'tap on' time (in seconds) at Gartnavel was significantly greater than that at Stobhill [t(39.5)=P<0.001]. A different tap design resulted in a net saving of 5.7 L of hot water, approximately 600 kJ of energy and 80 g of carbon dioxide emitted per surgical scrub. Surgical scrubbing is a ubiquitous procedure performed daily in healthcare settings. A simple technological solution can reduce water and energy use by modifying hand-washing behaviour and thereby reduce the carbon footprint of surgical scrubbing.

Functional visual acuity in patients with successfully treated amblyopia: a pilot study.

PubMed

Hoshi, Sujin; Hiraoka, Takahiro; Kotsuka, Junko; Sato, Yumiko; Izumida, Shinya; Kato, Atsuko; Ueno, Yuta; Fukuda, Shinichi; Oshika, Tetsuro

2017-06-01

The aim of this study was to use conventional visual acuity measurements to quantify the functional visual acuity (FVA) in eyes with successfully treated amblyopia, and to compare the findings with those for contralateral normal eyes. Nineteen patients (7 boys, 12 girls; age 7.5 ± 2.2 years) with successfully treated unilateral amblyopia and the same conventional decimal visual acuity in both eyes (better than 1.0) were enrolled. FVA, the visual maintenance ratio (VMR), maximum and minimum visual acuity, and the average response time were recorded for both eyes of all patients using an FVA measurement system. The differences in FVA values between eyes were analyzed. The mean LogMAR FVA scores, VMR (p < 0.001 for both), and the LogMAR maximum (p < 0.005) and minimum visual acuity (p < 0.001) were significantly poorer for the eyes with treated amblyopia than for the contralateral normal eyes. There was no significant difference in the average response time. Our results indicate that FVA and VMR were poorer for eyes with treated amblyopia than for normal eyes, even though the treatment for amblyopia was considered successful on the basis of conventional visual acuity measurements. These results suggest that visual function is impaired in eyes with amblyopia, regardless of treatment success, and that FVA measurements can provide highly valuable diagnosis and treatment information that is not readily provided by conventional visual acuity measurements.

78 FR 7314 - Shared Responsibility Payment for Not Maintaining Minimum Essential Coverage

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-02-01

... accounting firm in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles the report of which is made... affordable coverage if the individual's required contribution (determined on an annual basis) for minimum... portion of the required contribution made through a salary reduction arrangement and excluded from gross...

Optimization of fixed-range trajectories for supersonic transport aircraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Windhorst, Robert Dennis

1999-11-01

This thesis develops near-optimal guidance laws that generate minimum fuel, time, or direct operating cost fixed-range trajectories for supersonic transport aircraft. The approach uses singular perturbation techniques to time-scale de-couple the equations of motion into three sets of dynamics, two of which are analyzed in the main body of this thesis and one of which is analyzed in the Appendix. The two-point-boundary-value-problems obtained by application of the maximum principle to the dynamic systems are solved using the method of matched asymptotic expansions. Finally, the two solutions are combined using the matching principle and an additive composition rule to form a uniformly valid approximation of the full fixed-range trajectory. The approach is used on two different time-scale formulations. The first holds weight constant, and the second allows weight and range dynamics to propagate on the same time-scale. Solutions for the first formulation are only carried out to zero order in the small parameter, while solutions for the second formulation are carried out to first order. Calculations for a HSCT design were made to illustrate the method. Results show that the minimum fuel trajectory consists of three segments: a minimum fuel energy-climb, a cruise-climb, and a minimum drag glide. The minimum time trajectory also has three segments: a maximum dynamic pressure ascent, a constant altitude cruise, and a maximum dynamic pressure glide. The minimum direct operating cost trajectory is an optimal combination of the two. For realistic costs of fuel and flight time, the minimum direct operating cost trajectory is very similar to the minimum fuel trajectory. Moreover, the HSCT has three local optimum cruise speeds, with the globally optimum cruise point at the highest allowable speed, if range is sufficiently long. The final range of the trajectory determines which locally optimal speed is best. Ranges of 500 to 6,000 nautical miles, subsonic and supersonic mixed flight, and varying fuel efficiency cases are analyzed. Finally, the payload-range curve of the HSCT design is determined.

The Physical Nature and Orbital Behavior of the Eclipsing System DK Cygni

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jae Woo; Youn, Jae-Hyuck; Park, Jang-Ho; Wolf, Marek

2015-06-01

New CCD photometry is presented for the hot overcontact binary DK Cyg together with reasonable explanations for the light and period variations. Historical light and velocity curves from 1962 to 2012 were simultaneously analyzed with the Wilson-Devinney (W-D) synthesis code. The brightness disturbances were satisfactorily modeled by applying a magnetic cool spot on the primary star. Based on 261 times of minimum light that include 116 new timings and span more than 87 years, a period study reveals that the orbital period has varied due to a periodic oscillation superimposed on an upward parabola. The period and semi-amplitude of the modulation are about 78.1 years and 0.0037 days, respectively. This detail is interpreted as a light-travel-time effect due to a circumbinary companion with a minimum mass of M3 = 0.065 M⊙, within the theoretical limit of ˜0.07 M⊙ for a brown dwarf star. The observed period increase at a fractional rate of +2.74 × 10-10 is in excellent agreement with that calculated from our W-D synthesis. Mass transfer from the secondary to the primary component is mainly responsible for the secular period change. We examined the evolutionary status of the DK Cyg system from the absolute dimensions.

Time and frequency constrained sonar signal design for optimal detection of elastic objects.

PubMed

Hamschin, Brandon; Loughlin, Patrick J

2013-04-01

In this paper, the task of model-based transmit signal design for optimizing detection is considered. Building on past work that designs the spectral magnitude for optimizing detection, two methods for synthesizing minimum duration signals with this spectral magnitude are developed. The methods are applied to the design of signals that are optimal for detecting elastic objects in the presence of additive noise and self-noise. Elastic objects are modeled as linear time-invariant systems with known impulse responses, while additive noise (e.g., ocean noise or receiver noise) and acoustic self-noise (e.g., reverberation or clutter) are modeled as stationary Gaussian random processes with known power spectral densities. The first approach finds the waveform that preserves the optimal spectral magnitude while achieving the minimum temporal duration. The second approach yields a finite-length time-domain sequence by maximizing temporal energy concentration, subject to the constraint that the spectral magnitude is close (in a least-squares sense) to the optimal spectral magnitude. The two approaches are then connected analytically, showing the former is a limiting case of the latter. Simulation examples that illustrate the theory are accompanied by discussions that address practical applicability and how one might satisfy the need for target and environmental models in the real-world.

Determination of Vertical Borehole and Geological Formation Properties using the Crossed Contour Method.

PubMed

Leyde, Brian P; Klein, Sanford A; Nellis, Gregory F; Skye, Harrison

2017-03-01

This paper presents a new method called the Crossed Contour Method for determining the effective properties (borehole radius and ground thermal conductivity) of a vertical ground-coupled heat exchanger. The borehole radius is used as a proxy for the overall borehole thermal resistance. The method has been applied to both simulated and experimental borehole Thermal Response Test (TRT) data using the Duct Storage vertical ground heat exchanger model implemented in the TRansient SYstems Simulation software (TRNSYS). The Crossed Contour Method generates a parametric grid of simulated TRT data for different combinations of borehole radius and ground thermal conductivity in a series of time windows. The error between the average of the simulated and experimental bore field inlet and outlet temperatures is calculated for each set of borehole properties within each time window. Using these data, contours of the minimum error are constructed in the parameter space of borehole radius and ground thermal conductivity. When all of the minimum error contours for each time window are superimposed, the point where the contours cross (intersect) identifies the effective borehole properties for the model that most closely represents the experimental data in every time window and thus over the entire length of the experimental data set. The computed borehole properties are compared with results from existing model inversion methods including the Ground Property Measurement (GPM) software developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and the Line Source Model.

Non-linear Min protein interactions generate harmonics that signal mid-cell division in Escherichia coli

PubMed Central

Walsh, James C.; Angstmann, Christopher N.; Duggin, Iain G.

2017-01-01

The Min protein system creates a dynamic spatial pattern in Escherichia coli cells where the proteins MinD and MinE oscillate from pole to pole. MinD positions MinC, an inhibitor of FtsZ ring formation, contributing to the mid-cell localization of cell division. In this paper, Fourier analysis is used to decompose experimental and model MinD spatial distributions into time-dependent harmonic components. In both experiment and model, the second harmonic component is responsible for producing a mid-cell minimum in MinD concentration. The features of this harmonic are robust in both experiment and model. Fourier analysis reveals a close correspondence between the time-dependent behaviour of the harmonic components in the experimental data and model. Given this, each molecular species in the model was analysed individually. This analysis revealed that membrane-bound MinD dimer shows the mid-cell minimum with the highest contrast when averaged over time, carrying the strongest signal for positioning the cell division ring. This concurs with previous data showing that the MinD dimer binds to MinC inhibiting FtsZ ring formation. These results show that non-linear interactions of Min proteins are essential for producing the mid-cell positioning signal via the generation of second-order harmonic components in the time-dependent spatial protein distribution. PMID:29040283

Response of the Asian summer monsoons to idealized precession and obliquity forcing in a set of GCMs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bosmans, J. H. C.; Erb, M. P.; Dolan, A. M.; Drijfhout, S. S.; Tuenter, E.; Hilgen, F. J.; Edge, D.; Pope, J. O.; Lourens, L. J.

2018-05-01

We examine the response of the Indian and East Asian summer monsoons to separate precession and obliquity forcing, using a set of fully coupled high-resolution models for the first time: EC-Earth, GFDL CM2.1, CESM and HadCM3. We focus on the effect of insolation changes on monsoon precipitation and underlying circulation changes, and find strong model agreement despite a range of model physics, parameterization, and resolution. Our results show increased summer monsoon precipitation at times of increased summer insolation, i.e. minimum precession and maximum obliquity, accompanied by a redistribution of precipitation and convection from ocean to land. Southerly monsoon winds over East Asia are strengthened as a consequence of an intensified land-sea pressure gradient. The response of the Indian summer monsoon is less straightforward. Over south-east Asia low surface pressure is less pronounced and winds over the northern Indian Ocean are directed more westward. An Indian Ocean Dipole pattern emerges, with increased precipitation and convection over the western Indian Ocean. Increased temperatures occur during minimum precession over the Indian Ocean, but not during maximum obliquity when insolation is reduced over the tropics and southern hemisphere during northern hemisphere summer. Evaporation is reduced over the northern Indian Ocean, which together with increased precipitation over the western Indian Ocean dampens the increase of monsoonal precipitation over the continent. The southern tropical Indian Ocean as well as the western tropical Pacific (for precession) act as a moisture source for enhanced monsoonal precipitation. The models are in closest agreement for precession-induced changes, with more model spread for obliquity-induced changes, possibly related to a smaller insolation forcing. Our results indicate that a direct response of the Indian and East Asian summer monsoons to insolation forcing is possible, in line with speleothem records but in contrast to what most marine proxy climate records suggest.

Relation between Streamflow of Swiftcurrent Creek, Montana, and the Geometry of Passage for Bull Trout (Salvelinus confluentus)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Auble, Gregor T.; Holmquist-Johnson, Christopher L.; Mogen, Jim T.; Kaeding, Lynn R.; Bowen, Zachary H.

2009-01-01

Operation of Sherburne Dam in northcentral Montana has typically reduced winter streamflow in Swiftcurrent Creek downstream of the dam and resulted in passage limitations for bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus). We defined an empirical relation between discharge in Swiftcurrent Creek between Sherburne Dam and the downstream confluence with Boulder Creek and fish passage geometry by considering how the cross-sectional area of water changed as a function of discharge at a set of cross sections likely to limit fish passage. With a minimum passage window of 15 x 45 cm, passage at the cross sections increased strongly with discharge over the range of 1.2 to 24 cfs. Most cross sections did not satisfy the minimum criteria at 1.2 cfs, 25 percent had no passage at 12.7 cfs, whereas at 24 cfs all but one of 26 cross sections had some passage and 90 percent had more than 3 m of width satisfying the minimum criteria. Sensitivity analysis suggests that the overall results are not highly dependent on exact dimensions of the minimum passage window. Combining these results with estimates of natural streamflow in the study reach further suggests that natural streamflow provided adequate passage at some times in most months and locations in the study reach, although not for all individual days and locations. Limitations of our analysis include assumptions about minimum passage geometry, measurement error, limitations of the cross-sectional model we used to characterize passage, the relation of Sherburne Dam releases to streamflow in the downstream study reach in the presence of ephemeral accretions, and the relation of passage geometry as we have measured it to fish responses of movement, stranding, and mortality, especially in the presence of ice cover.

The 2014 X-Ray Minimum of Eta Carinae as Seen by Swift

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Corcoran, M. F.; Liburd, J.; Morris, D.; Russell, C. M. P.; Hamaguchi, K.; Gull, T. R.; Madura, T. I.; Teodoro, M.; Moffat, A. F. J.; Richardson, N. D.

2017-01-01

We report on Swift X-ray Telescope observations of Eta Carinae ( Car), an extremely massive, long-period, highly eccentric binary obtained during the 2014.6 X-ray minimumperiastron passage. These observations show that Car may have been particularly bright in X-rays going into the X-ray minimum state, while the duration of the 2014 X-ray minimum was intermediate between the extended minima seen in 1998.0 and 2003.5 by Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer (RXTE), and the shorter minimum in 2009.0. The hardness ratios derived from the Swift observations showed a relatively smooth increase to a peak value occurring 40.5 days after the start of the X-ray minimum, though these observations cannot reliably measure the X-ray hardness during the deepest part of the X-ray minimum when contamination by the central constant emission component is significant. By comparing the timings of the RXTE and Swift observations near the X-ray minima, we derive an updated X-ray period of P X equals 2023.7 +/- 0.7 days, in good agreement with periods derived from observations at other wavelengths, and we compare the X-ray changes with variations in the He ii lambda 4686 emission. The middle of the Deep Minimum interval, as defined by the Swift column density variations, is in good agreement with the time of periastron passage derived from the He ii 4686 line variations.

Survey of Occupational Noise Exposure in CF Personnel in Selected High-Risk Trades

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-11-01

peak, maximum level , minimum level , average sound level , time weighted average, dose, projected 8-hour dose, and upper limit time were measured for...10 4.4.2 Maximum Sound Level ...11 4.4.3 Minimum Sound Level

Autonomous Mission Operations Roadmap

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frank, Jeremy David

2014-01-01

As light time delays increase, the number of such situations in which crew autonomy is the best way to conduct the mission is expected to increase. However, there are significant open questions regarding which functions to allocate to ground and crew as the time delays increase. In situations where the ideal solution is to allocate responsibility to the crew and the vehicle, a second question arises: should the activity be the responsibility of the crew or an automated vehicle function? More specifically, we must answer the following questions: What aspects of mission operation responsibilities (Plan, Train, Fly) should be allocated to ground based or vehicle based planning, monitoring, and control in the presence of significant light-time delay between the vehicle and the Earth?How should the allocated ground based planning, monitoring, and control be distributed across the flight control team and ground system automation? How should the allocated vehicle based planning, monitoring, and control be distributed between the flight crew and onboard system automation?When during the mission should responsibility shift from flight control team to crew or from crew to vehicle, and what should the process of shifting responsibility be as the mission progresses? NASA is developing a roadmap of capabilities for Autonomous Mission Operations for human spaceflight. This presentation will describe the current state of development of this roadmap, with specific attention to in-space inspection tasks that crews might perform with minimum assistance from the ground.

Neural activity in the posterior superior temporal region during eye contact perception correlates with autistic traits.

PubMed

Hasegawa, Naoya; Kitamura, Hideaki; Murakami, Hiroatsu; Kameyama, Shigeki; Sasagawa, Mutsuo; Egawa, Jun; Endo, Taro; Someya, Toshiyuki

2013-08-09

The present study investigated the relationship between neural activity associated with gaze processing and autistic traits in typically developed subjects using magnetoencephalography. Autistic traits in 24 typically developed college students with normal intelligence were assessed using the Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ). The Minimum Current Estimates method was applied to estimate the cortical sources of magnetic responses to gaze stimuli. These stimuli consisted of apparent motion of the eyes, displaying direct or averted gaze motion. Results revealed gaze-related brain activations in the 150-250 ms time window in the right posterior superior temporal sulcus (pSTS), and in the 150-450 ms time window in medial prefrontal regions. In addition, the mean amplitude in the 150-250 ms time window in the right pSTS region was modulated by gaze direction, and its activity in response to direct gaze stimuli correlated with AQ score. pSTS activation in response to direct gaze is thought to be related to higher-order social processes. Thus, these results suggest that brain activity linking eye contact and social signals is associated with autistic traits in a typical population. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Variability of ionospheric TEC during solar and geomagnetic minima (2008 and 2009): external high speed stream drivers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Verkhoglyadova, O. P.; Tsurutani, B. T.; Mannucci, A. J.; Mlynczak, M. G.; Hunt, L. A.; Runge, T.

2013-02-01

We study solar wind-ionosphere coupling through the late declining phase/solar minimum and geomagnetic minimum phases during the last solar cycle (SC23) - 2008 and 2009. This interval was characterized by sequences of high-speed solar wind streams (HSSs). The concomitant geomagnetic response was moderate geomagnetic storms and high-intensity, long-duration continuous auroral activity (HILDCAA) events. The JPL Global Ionospheric Map (GIM) software and the GPS total electron content (TEC) database were used to calculate the vertical TEC (VTEC) and estimate daily averaged values in separate latitude and local time ranges. Our results show distinct low- and mid-latitude VTEC responses to HSSs during this interval, with the low-latitude daytime daily averaged values increasing by up to 33 TECU (annual average of ~20 TECU) near local noon (12:00 to 14:00 LT) in 2008. In 2009 during the minimum geomagnetic activity (MGA) interval, the response to HSSs was a maximum of ~30 TECU increases with a slightly lower average value than in 2008. There was a weak nighttime ionospheric response to the HSSs. A well-studied solar cycle declining phase interval, 10-22 October 2003, was analyzed for comparative purposes, with daytime low-latitude VTEC peak values of up to ~58 TECU (event average of ~55 TECU). The ionospheric VTEC changes during 2008-2009 were similar but ~60% less intense on average. There is an evidence of correlations of filtered daily averaged VTEC data with Ap index and solar wind speed. We use the infrared NO and CO2 emission data obtained with SABER on TIMED as a proxy for the radiation balance of the thermosphere. It is shown that infrared emissions increase during HSS events possibly due to increased energy input into the auroral region associated with HILDCAAs. The 2008-2009 HSS intervals were ~85% less intense than the 2003 early declining phase event, with annual averages of daily infrared NO emission power of ~ 3.3 × 1010 W and 2.7 × 1010 W in 2008 and 2009, respectively. The roles of disturbance dynamos caused by high-latitude winds (due to particle precipitation and Joule heating in the auroral zones) and of prompt penetrating electric fields (PPEFs) in the solar wind-ionosphere coupling during these intervals are discussed. A correlation between geoeffective interplanetary electric field components and HSS intervals is shown. Both PPEF and disturbance dynamo mechanisms could play important roles in solar wind-ionosphere coupling during prolonged (up to days) external driving within HILDCAA intervals.

17 CFR 402.2e - Appendix E-Temporary minimum requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Appendix E-Temporary minimum requirements. 402.2e Section 402.2e Commodity and Securities Exchanges DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY REGULATIONS UNDER SECTION 15C OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY § 402.2e Appendix E...

17 CFR 402.2e - Appendix E-Temporary minimum requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Appendix E-Temporary minimum requirements. 402.2e Section 402.2e Commodity and Securities Exchanges DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY REGULATIONS UNDER SECTION 15C OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY § 402.2e Appendix E...

17 CFR 402.2e - Appendix E-Temporary minimum requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Appendix E-Temporary minimum requirements. 402.2e Section 402.2e Commodity and Securities Exchanges DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY REGULATIONS UNDER SECTION 15C OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY § 402.2e Appendix E...

17 CFR 402.2e - Appendix E-Temporary minimum requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 4 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Appendix E-Temporary minimum requirements. 402.2e Section 402.2e Commodity and Securities Exchanges DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY REGULATIONS UNDER SECTION 15C OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY § 402.2e Appendix E...

17 CFR 402.2e - Appendix E-Temporary minimum requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 17 Commodity and Securities Exchanges 3 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Appendix E-Temporary minimum requirements. 402.2e Section 402.2e Commodity and Securities Exchanges DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY REGULATIONS UNDER SECTION 15C OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY § 402.2e Appendix E...

Minimum Wage Effects throughout the Wage Distribution

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Neumark, David; Schweitzer, Mark; Wascher, William

2004-01-01

This paper provides evidence on a wide set of margins along which labor markets can adjust in response to increases in the minimum wage, including wages, hours, employment, and ultimately labor income. Not surprisingly, the evidence indicates that low-wage workers are most strongly affected, while higher-wage workers are little affected. Workers…

7 CFR 3570.66 - Determining the maximum grant assistance.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... maximum grant assistance. (a) Responsibility. State Directors are responsible for determining the....63(b); (2) Minimum amount sufficient to provide for economic feasibility as determined in accordance...

Experimental design and analysis of activators regenerated by electron transfer-atom transfer radical polymerization experimental conditions for grafting sodium styrene sulfonate from titanium substrates.

PubMed

Foster, Rami N; Johansson, Patrik K; Tom, Nicole R; Koelsch, Patrick; Castner, David G

2015-09-01

A 2 4 factorial design was used to optimize the activators regenerated by electron transfer-atom transfer radical polymerization (ARGET-ATRP) grafting of sodium styrene sulfonate (NaSS) films from trichlorosilane/10-undecen-1-yl 2-bromo-2-methylpropionate (ester ClSi) functionalized titanium substrates. The process variables explored were: (1) ATRP initiator surface functionalization reaction time; (2) grafting reaction time; (3) CuBr 2 concentration; and (4) reducing agent (vitamin C) concentration. All samples were characterized using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Two statistical methods were used to analyze the results: (1) analysis of variance with [Formula: see text], using average [Formula: see text] XPS atomic percent as the response; and (2) principal component analysis using a peak list compiled from all the XPS composition results. Through this analysis combined with follow-up studies, the following conclusions are reached: (1) ATRP-initiator surface functionalization reaction times have no discernable effect on NaSS film quality; (2) minimum (≤24 h for this system) grafting reaction times should be used on titanium substrates since NaSS film quality decreased and variability increased with increasing reaction times; (3) minimum (≤0.5 mg cm -2 for this system) CuBr 2 concentrations should be used to graft thicker NaSS films; and (4) no deleterious effects were detected with increasing vitamin C concentration.

The association of minimum wage change on child nutritional status in LMICs: A quasi-experimental multi-country study.

PubMed

Ponce, Ninez; Shimkhada, Riti; Raub, Amy; Daoud, Adel; Nandi, Arijit; Richter, Linda; Heymann, Jody

2017-08-02

There is recognition that social protection policies such as raising the minimum wage can favourably impact health, but little evidence links minimum wage increases to child health outcomes. We used multi-year data (2003-2012) on national minimum wages linked to individual-level data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) from 23 low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) that had least two DHS surveys to establish pre- and post-observation periods. Over a pre- and post-interval ranging from 4 to 8 years, we examined minimum wage growth and four nutritional status outcomes among children under 5 years: stunting, wasting, underweight, and anthropometric failure. Using a differences-in-differences framework with country and time-fixed effects, a 10% increase in minimum wage growth over time was associated with a 0.5 percentage point decline in stunting (-0.054, 95% CI (-0.084,-0.025)), and a 0.3 percentage point decline in failure (-0.031, 95% CI (-0.057,-0.005)). We did not observe statistically significant associations between minimum wage growth and underweight or wasting. We found similar results for the poorest households working in non-agricultural and non-professional jobs, where minimum wage growth may have the most leverage. Modest increases in minimum wage over a 4- to 8-year period might be effective in reducing child undernutrition in LMICs.

THE EFFECT OF A DYNAMIC INNER HELIOSHEATH THICKNESS ON COSMIC-RAY MODULATION

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

Manuel, R.; Ferreira, S. E. S.; Potgieter, M. S., E-mail: rexmanuel@live.com

2015-02-01

The time-dependent modulation of galactic cosmic rays in the heliosphere is studied over different polarity cycles by computing 2.5 GV proton intensities using a two-dimensional, time-dependent modulation model. By incorporating recent theoretical advances in the relevant transport parameters in the model, we showed in previous work that this approach gave realistic computed intensities over a solar cycle. New in this work is that a time dependence of the solar wind termination shock (TS) position is implemented in our model to study the effect of a dynamic inner heliosheath thickness (the region between the TS and heliopause) on the solar modulationmore » of galactic cosmic rays. The study reveals that changes in the inner heliosheath thickness, arising from a time-dependent shock position, does affect cosmic-ray intensities everywhere in the heliosphere over a solar cycle, with the smallest effect in the innermost heliosphere. A time-dependent TS position causes a phase difference between the solar activity periods and the corresponding intensity periods. The maximum intensities in response to a solar minimum activity period are found to be dependent on the time-dependent TS profile. It is found that changing the width of the inner heliosheath with time over a solar cycle can shift the time of when the maximum or minimum cosmic-ray intensities occur at various distances throughout the heliosphere, but more significantly in the outer heliosphere. The time-dependent extent of the inner heliosheath, as affected by solar activity conditions, is thus an additional time-dependent factor to be considered in the long-term modulation of cosmic rays.« less

Efficiency and large deviations in time-asymmetric stochastic heat engines

DOE PAGES

Gingrich, Todd R.; Rotskoff, Grant M.; Vaikuntanathan, Suriyanarayanan; ...

2014-10-24

In a stochastic heat engine driven by a cyclic non-equilibrium protocol, fluctuations in work and heat give rise to a fluctuating efficiency. Using computer simulations and tools from large deviation theory, we have examined these fluctuations in detail for a model two-state engine. We find in general that the form of efficiency probability distributions is similar to those described by Verley et al (2014 Nat. Commun. 5 4721), in particular featuring a local minimum in the long-time limit. In contrast to the time-symmetric engine protocols studied previously, however, this minimum need not occur at the value characteristic of a reversible Carnot engine. Furthermore, while the local minimum may reside at the global minimum of a large deviation rate function, it does not generally correspond to the least likely efficiency measured over finite time. Lastly, we introduce a general approximation for the finite-time efficiency distribution,more » $$P(\\eta )$$, based on large deviation statistics of work and heat, that remains very accurate even when $$P(\\eta )$$ deviates significantly from its large deviation form.« less

Time optimal paths for high speed maneuvering

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

Reister, D.B.; Lenhart, S.M.

1993-01-01

Recent theoretical results have completely solved the problem of determining the minimum length path for a vehicle with a minimum turning radius moving from an initial configuration to a final configuration. Time optimal paths for a constant speed vehicle are a subset of the minimum length paths. This paper uses the Pontryagin maximum principle to find time optimal paths for a constant speed vehicle. The time optimal paths consist of sequences of axes of circles and straight lines. The maximum principle introduces concepts (dual variables, bang-bang solutions, singular solutions, and transversality conditions) that provide important insight into the nature ofmore » the time optimal paths. We explore the properties of the optimal paths and present some experimental results for a mobile robot following an optimal path.« less

A recent time of minimum for and atmospheric-eclipse in the ultraviolet spectrum of the Wolf-Rayet eclipsing binary V444 Cygni

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eaton, J. E.; Cherepashchuk, A. M.; Khaliullin, K. F.

1982-01-01

The 1200-1900 angstrom region and fine error sensor observations in the optical for V444 Cyg were continuously observed. More than half of a primary minimum and almost a complete secondary minimum were observed. It is found that the time of minimum for the secondary eclipse is consistent with that for primary eclipse, and the ultraviolet times of minimum are consistent with the optical ones. The spectrum shows a considerable amount of phase dependence. The general shaps and depths of the light curves for the FES signal and the 1565-1900 angstrom continuum are similar to those for the blue continuum. The FES, however, detected an atmospheric eclipse in line absorption at about the phase the NIV absorption was strongest. It is suggested that there is a source of continuum absorption shortward of 1460 angstrom which exists throughout a large part of the extended atmosphere and which, by implication, must redden considerably the ultraviolet continuua of WN stars. A fairly high degree of ionization for the inner part of the WN star a atmosphere is implied.

The discrete prolate spheroidal filter as a digital signal processing tool

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mathews, J. D.; Breakall, J. K.; Karawas, G. K.

1983-01-01

The discrete prolate spheriodall (DPS) filter is one of the glass of nonrecursive finite impulse response (FIR) filters. The DPS filter is superior to other filters in this class in that it has maximum energy concentration in the frequency passband and minimum ringing in the time domain. A mathematical development of the DPS filter properties is given, along with information required to construct the filter. The properties of this filter were compared with those of the more commonly used filters of the same class. Use of the DPS filter allows for particularly meaningful statements of data time/frequency resolution cell values. The filter forms an especially useful tool for digital signal processing.

Real time flight simulation methodology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parrish, E. A.; Cook, G.; Mcvey, E. S.

1976-01-01

An example sensitivity study is presented to demonstrate how a digital autopilot designer could make a decision on minimum sampling rate for computer specification. It consists of comparing the simulated step response of an existing analog autopilot and its associated aircraft dynamics to the digital version operating at various sampling frequencies and specifying a sampling frequency that results in an acceptable change in relative stability. In general, the zero order hold introduces phase lag which will increase overshoot and settling time. It should be noted that this solution is for substituting a digital autopilot for a continuous autopilot. A complete redesign could result in results which more closely resemble the continuous results or which conform better to original design goals.

20 CFR 229.47 - Child's benefit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2012-04-01 2012-04-01 false Child's benefit. 229.47 Section 229.47... OVERALL MINIMUM GUARANTEE Computation of the Overall Minimum Rate § 229.47 Child's benefit. If a child is included in the computation of the overall minimum, a child's benefit of 50 percent times the Overall...

20 CFR 229.47 - Child's benefit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Child's benefit. 229.47 Section 229.47... OVERALL MINIMUM GUARANTEE Computation of the Overall Minimum Rate § 229.47 Child's benefit. If a child is included in the computation of the overall minimum, a child's benefit of 50 percent times the Overall...

20 CFR 229.47 - Child's benefit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2014-04-01 2012-04-01 true Child's benefit. 229.47 Section 229.47... OVERALL MINIMUM GUARANTEE Computation of the Overall Minimum Rate § 229.47 Child's benefit. If a child is included in the computation of the overall minimum, a child's benefit of 50 percent times the Overall...

20 CFR 229.47 - Child's benefit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2013-04-01 2012-04-01 true Child's benefit. 229.47 Section 229.47... OVERALL MINIMUM GUARANTEE Computation of the Overall Minimum Rate § 229.47 Child's benefit. If a child is included in the computation of the overall minimum, a child's benefit of 50 percent times the Overall...

20 CFR 229.47 - Child's benefit.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Child's benefit. 229.47 Section 229.47... OVERALL MINIMUM GUARANTEE Computation of the Overall Minimum Rate § 229.47 Child's benefit. If a child is included in the computation of the overall minimum, a child's benefit of 50 percent times the Overall...

Assessing the impacts of Saskatchewan's minimum alcohol pricing regulations on alcohol-related crime.

PubMed

Stockwell, Tim; Zhao, Jinhui; Sherk, Adam; Callaghan, Russell C; Macdonald, Scott; Gatley, Jodi

2017-07-01

Saskatchewan's introduction in April 2010 of minimum prices graded by alcohol strength led to an average minimum price increase of 9.1% per Canadian standard drink (=13.45 g ethanol). This increase was shown to be associated with reduced consumption and switching to lower alcohol content beverages. Police also informally reported marked reductions in night-time alcohol-related crime. This study aims to assess the impacts of changes to Saskatchewan's minimum alcohol-pricing regulations between 2008 and 2012 on selected crime events often related to alcohol use. Data were obtained from Canada's Uniform Crime Reporting Survey. Auto-regressive integrated moving average time series models were used to test immediate and lagged associations between minimum price increases and rates of night-time and police identified alcohol-related crimes. Controls were included for simultaneous crime rates in the neighbouring province of Alberta, economic variables, linear trend, seasonality and autoregressive and/or moving-average effects. The introduction of increased minimum-alcohol prices was associated with an abrupt decrease in night-time alcohol-related traffic offences for men (-8.0%, P < 0.001), but not women. No significant immediate changes were observed for non-alcohol-related driving offences, disorderly conduct or violence. Significant monthly lagged effects were observed for violent offences (-19.7% at month 4 to -18.2% at month 6), which broadly corresponded to lagged effects in on-premise alcohol sales. Increased minimum alcohol prices may contribute to reductions in alcohol-related traffic-related and violent crimes perpetrated by men. Observed lagged effects for violent incidents may be due to a delay in bars passing on increased prices to their customers, perhaps because of inventory stockpiling. [Stockwell T, Zhao J, Sherk A, Callaghan RC, Macdonald S, Gatley J. Assessing the impacts of Saskatchewan's minimum alcohol pricing regulations on alcohol-related crime. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;36:492-501]. © 2016 Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs.

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

Reister, D.B.; Lenhart, S.M.

Recent theoretical results have completely solved the problem of determining the minimum length path for a vehicle with a minimum turning radius moving from an initial configuration to a final configuration. Time optimal paths for a constant speed vehicle are a subset of the minimum length paths. This paper uses the Pontryagin maximum principle to find time optimal paths for a constant speed vehicle. The time optimal paths consist of sequences of axes of circles and straight lines. The maximum principle introduces concepts (dual variables, bang-bang solutions, singular solutions, and transversality conditions) that provide important insight into the nature ofmore » the time optimal paths. We explore the properties of the optimal paths and present some experimental results for a mobile robot following an optimal path.« less

Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia: Treatment Response and Resistance in Psychosis (TRRIP) Working Group Consensus Guidelines on Diagnosis and Terminology.

PubMed

Howes, Oliver D; McCutcheon, Rob; Agid, Ofer; de Bartolomeis, Andrea; van Beveren, Nico J M; Birnbaum, Michael L; Bloomfield, Michael A P; Bressan, Rodrigo A; Buchanan, Robert W; Carpenter, William T; Castle, David J; Citrome, Leslie; Daskalakis, Zafiris J; Davidson, Michael; Drake, Richard J; Dursun, Serdar; Ebdrup, Bjørn H; Elkis, Helio; Falkai, Peter; Fleischacker, W Wolfgang; Gadelha, Ary; Gaughran, Fiona; Glenthøj, Birte Y; Graff-Guerrero, Ariel; Hallak, Jaime E C; Honer, William G; Kennedy, James; Kinon, Bruce J; Lawrie, Stephen M; Lee, Jimmy; Leweke, F Markus; MacCabe, James H; McNabb, Carolyn B; Meltzer, Herbert; Möller, Hans-Jürgen; Nakajima, Shinchiro; Pantelis, Christos; Reis Marques, Tiago; Remington, Gary; Rossell, Susan L; Russell, Bruce R; Siu, Cynthia O; Suzuki, Takefumi; Sommer, Iris E; Taylor, David; Thomas, Neil; Üçok, Alp; Umbricht, Daniel; Walters, James T R; Kane, John; Correll, Christoph U

2017-03-01

Research and clinical translation in schizophrenia is limited by inconsistent definitions of treatment resistance and response. To address this issue, the authors evaluated current approaches and then developed consensus criteria and guidelines. A systematic review of randomized antipsychotic clinical trials in treatment-resistant schizophrenia was performed, and definitions of treatment resistance were extracted. Subsequently, consensus operationalized criteria were developed through 1) a multiphase, mixed methods approach, 2) identification of key criteria via an online survey, and 3) meetings to achieve consensus. Of 2,808 studies identified, 42 met inclusion criteria. Of these, 21 studies (50%) did not provide operationalized criteria. In the remaining studies, criteria varied considerably, particularly regarding symptom severity, prior treatment duration, and antipsychotic dosage thresholds; only two studies (5%) utilized the same criteria. The consensus group identified minimum and optimal criteria, employing the following principles: 1) current symptoms of a minimum duration and severity determined by a standardized rating scale; 2) moderate or worse functional impairment; 3) prior treatment consisting of at least two different antipsychotic trials, each for a minimum duration and dosage; 4) systematic monitoring of adherence and meeting of minimum adherence criteria; 5) ideally at least one prospective treatment trial; and 6) criteria that clearly separate responsive from treatment-resistant patients. There is considerable variation in current approaches to defining treatment resistance in schizophrenia. The authors present consensus guidelines that operationalize criteria for determining and reporting treatment resistance, adequate treatment, and treatment response, providing a benchmark for research and clinical translation.

77 FR 39774 - Self-Regulatory Organizations; The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC; Notice of Filing and Immediate...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-07-05

... orders; Chapter VI, Section 1(e)(3) to provide that Minimum Quantity Orders are treated as having a time... Intermarket Sweep Orders (``ISOs'') may have any time-in-force designation except WAIT; Chapter VI, Section 2... Chapter VI, Section 1(e)(3), to provide that Minimum Quantity Orders are treated as having a time-in...

Minimum time acceleration of aircraft turbofan engines by using an algorithm based on nonlinear programming

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Teren, F.

1977-01-01

Minimum time accelerations of aircraft turbofan engines are presented. The calculation of these accelerations was made by using a piecewise linear engine model, and an algorithm based on nonlinear programming. Use of this model and algorithm allows such trajectories to be readily calculated on a digital computer with a minimal expenditure of computer time.

Determining size and dispersion of minimum viable populations for land management planning and species conservation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lehmkuhl, John F.

1984-03-01

The concept of minimum populations of wildlife and plants has only recently been discussed in the literature. Population genetics has emerged as a basic underlying criterion for determining minimum population size. This paper presents a genetic framework and procedure for determining minimum viable population size and dispersion strategies in the context of multiple-use land management planning. A procedure is presented for determining minimum population size based on maintenance of genetic heterozygosity and reduction of inbreeding. A minimum effective population size ( N e ) of 50 breeding animals is taken from the literature as the minimum shortterm size to keep inbreeding below 1% per generation. Steps in the procedure adjust N e to account for variance in progeny number, unequal sex ratios, overlapping generations, population fluctuations, and period of habitat/population constraint. The result is an approximate census number that falls within a range of effective population size of 50 500 individuals. This population range defines the time range of short- to long-term population fitness and evolutionary potential. The length of the term is a relative function of the species generation time. Two population dispersion strategies are proposed: core population and dispersed population.

The 2014 X-Ray Minimum of η Carinae as Seen by Swift

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

Corcoran, M. F.; Hamaguchi, K.; Liburd, J.

We report on Swift X-ray Telescope observations of Eta Carinae ( η Car), an extremely massive, long-period, highly eccentric binary obtained during the 2014.6 X-ray minimum/periastron passage. These observations show that η Car may have been particularly bright in X-rays going into the X-ray minimum state, while the duration of the 2014 X-ray minimum was intermediate between the extended minima seen in 1998.0 and 2003.5 by Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer ( RXTE ), and the shorter minimum in 2009.0. The hardness ratios derived from the Swift observations showed a relatively smooth increase to a peak value occurring 40.5 days aftermore » the start of the X-ray minimum, though these observations cannot reliably measure the X-ray hardness during the deepest part of the X-ray minimum when contamination by the “central constant emission” component is significant. By comparing the timings of the RXTE and Swift observations near the X-ray minima, we derive an updated X-ray period of P {sub X} = 2023.7 ± 0.7 days, in good agreement with periods derived from observations at other wavelengths, and we compare the X-ray changes with variations in the He ii 4686 emission. The middle of the “Deep Minimum” interval, as defined by the Swift column density variations, is in good agreement with the time of periastron passage derived from the He ii λ 4686 line variations.« less

Extrasolar planet detection by binary stellar eclipse timing: evidence for a third body around CM Draconis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deeg, H. J.; Ocaña, B.; Kozhevnikov, V. P.; Charbonneau, D.; O'Donovan, F. T.; Doyle, L. R.

2008-03-01

Aims:Our objective is to elucidate the physical process that causes the observed observed-minus-calculated (O-C) behavior in the M4.5/M4.5 binary CM Dra and to test for any evidence of a third body around the CM Dra system. Methods: New eclipse minimum timings of CM Dra were obtained between the years 2000 and 2007. The O-C times of the system are fitted against several functions, representing different physical origins of the timing variations. Results: Using our observational data in conjunction with published timings going back to 1977, a clear non-linearity in O-C times is apparent. An analysis using model-selection statistics gives about equal weight to a parabolic and to a sinusoidal fitting function. Attraction from a third body, either at large distance in a quasi-constant constellation across the years of observations or from a body on a shorter orbit generating periodicities in O-C times is the most likely source of the observed O-C times. The white dwarf GJ 630.1B, a proper motion companion of CM Dra, can however be rejected as the responsible third body. Also, no further evidence of the short-periodic planet candidate described by Deeg et al. (2000, A&A, 358, L5) is found, whereas other mechanisms, such as period changes from stellar winds or Applegate's mechanism can be rejected. Conclusions: A third body, being either a few-Jupiter-mass object with a period of 18.5 ± 4.5 years or an object in the mass range of 1.5 M_jup to 0.1 M⊙ with periods of hundreds to thousands of years is the most likely origin of the observed minimum timing behavior.

Impacts of Stratospheric Dynamics on Atmospheric Behavior from the Ground to Space Solar Minimum and Solar Maximum

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-15

from the ground to space solar minimum and solar maximum 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER BAA-76-11-01 5b. GRANT NUMBER N00173-12-1G010 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT...atmospheric behavior from the ground to space under solar minimum and solar maximum conditions (Contract No.: N00173-12-1-G010 NRL) Project Summary...Dynamical response to solar radiative forcing is a crucial and poorly understood mechanisms. We propose to study the impacts of large dynamical events

Minimum essential coverage and other rules regarding the shared responsibility payment for individuals. Final regulations.

PubMed

2014-11-26

This document contains final regulations relating to the requirement to maintain minimum essential coverage enacted by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010, as amended by the TRICARE Affirmation Act and Public Law 111-173 (collectively, the Affordable Care Act). These final regulations provide individual taxpayers with guidance under section 5000A of the Internal Revenue Code on the requirement to maintain minimum essential coverage and rules governing certain types of exemptions from that requirement.

Effect of nucleation time on bending response of ionic polymer–metal composite actuators

DOE PAGES

Kim, Suran; Hong, Seungbum; Choi, Yoon-Young; ...

2013-07-02

We attempted an autocatalytic electro-less plating of nickel in order to replace an electroless impregnation-reduction (IR) method in ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC) actuators to reduce cost and processing time. Because nucleation time of Pd–Sn colloids is the determining factor of overall processing time, we used the nucleation time as our control parameter. In order to optimize nucleation time and investigate its effect on the performance of IPMC actuators, we analyzed the relationship between the nucleation time, interface morphology and electrical properties. The optimized nucleation time was 10 h. Furthermore, the trends of the performance and electrical properties as a functionmore » of nucleation time were attributed to the fact that the Ni penetration depth was determined by the minimum diffusion length of either Pd–Sn colloids or reducing agent ions. The Ni-IPMC actuators can be fabricated less than 14 h processing time without deteriorating performance of the actuators, which is comparable to Pt-IPMC prepared by IR method.« less

Sensitivity analysis of tall buildings in Semarang, Indonesia due to fault earthquakes with maximum 7 Mw

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Partono, Windu; Pardoyo, Bambang; Atmanto, Indrastono Dwi; Azizah, Lisa; Chintami, Rouli Dian

2017-11-01

Fault is one of the dangerous earthquake sources that can cause building failure. A lot of buildings were collapsed caused by Yogyakarta (2006) and Pidie (2016) fault source earthquakes with maximum magnitude 6.4 Mw. Following the research conducted by Team for Revision of Seismic Hazard Maps of Indonesia 2010 and 2016, Lasem, Demak and Semarang faults are three closest earthquake sources surrounding Semarang. The ground motion from those three earthquake sources should be taken into account for structural design and evaluation. Most of tall buildings, with minimum 40 meter high, in Semarang were designed and constructed following the 2002 and 2012 Indonesian Seismic Code. This paper presents the result of sensitivity analysis research with emphasis on the prediction of deformation and inter-story drift of existing tall building within the city against fault earthquakes. The analysis was performed by conducting dynamic structural analysis of 8 (eight) tall buildings using modified acceleration time histories. The modified acceleration time histories were calculated for three fault earthquakes with magnitude from 6 Mw to 7 Mw. The modified acceleration time histories were implemented due to inadequate time histories data caused by those three fault earthquakes. Sensitivity analysis of building against earthquake can be predicted by evaluating surface response spectra calculated using seismic code and surface response spectra calculated from acceleration time histories from a specific earthquake event. If surface response spectra calculated using seismic code is greater than surface response spectra calculated from acceleration time histories the structure will stable enough to resist the earthquake force.

Early response with dasatinib or imatinib in chronic myeloid leukemia: 3-year follow-up from a randomized phase 3 trial (DASISION)

PubMed Central

Jabbour, Elias; Saglio, Giuseppe; Steegmann, Juan Luis; Shah, Neil P.; Boqué, Concepción; Chuah, Charles; Pavlovsky, Carolina; Mayer, Jiří; Cortes, Jorge; Baccarani, Michele; Kim, Dong-Wook; Bradley-Garelik, M. Brigid; Mohamed, Hesham; Wildgust, Mark; Hochhaus, Andreas

2014-01-01

This analysis explores the impact of early cytogenetic and molecular responses on the outcomes of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase (CML-CP) in the phase 3 DASatinib versus Imatinib Study In treatment-Naive CML patients trial with a minimum follow-up of 3 years. Patients with newly diagnosed CML-CP were randomized to receive 100 mg dasatinib (n = 259) or 400 mg imatinib (n = 260) once daily. The retrospective landmark analysis included patients evaluable at the relevant time point (3, 6, or 12 months). Median time to complete cytogenetic response was 3 vs 6 months with dasatinib vs imatinib. At 3 and 6 months, the proportion of patients with BCR-ABL transcript levels ≤10% was higher in the dasatinib arm. Deeper responses at 3, 6, and 12 months were observed in a higher proportion of patients on dasatinib therapy and were associated with better 3-year progression-free survival and overall survival in both arms. First-line dasatinib resulted in faster and deeper responses compared with imatinib. The achievement of an early molecular response was predictive of improved progression-free survival and overall survival, supporting new milestones for optimal response in patients with early CML-CP treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitors. This study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00481247. PMID:24311723

Effect of reinforcer magnitude on performance maintained by progressive-ratio schedules.

PubMed

Rickard, J F; Body, S; Zhang, Z; Bradshaw, C M; Szabadi, E

2009-01-01

This experiment examined the relationship between reinforcer magnitude and quantitative measures of performance on progressive-ratio schedules. Fifteen rats were trained under a progressive-ratio schedule in seven phases of the experiment in which the volume of a 0.6-M sucrose solution reinforcer was varied within the range 6-300 microl. Overall response rates in successive ratios conformed to a bitonic equation derived from Killeen's (1994) Mathematical Principles of Reinforcement. The "specific activation" parameter, a, which is presumed to reflect the incentive value of the reinforcer, was a monotonically increasing function of reinforcer volume; the "response time" parameter, delta, which defines the minimum response time, increased as a function of reinforcer volume; the "currency" parameter, beta, which is presumed to reflect the coupling of responses to the reinforcer, declined as a function of volume. Running response rate (response rate calculated after exclusion of the postreinforcement pause) decayed monotonically as a function of ratio size; the index of curvature of this function increased as a function of reinforcer volume. Postreinforcement pause increased as a function of ratio size. Estimates of a derived from overall response rates and postreinforcement pauses showed a modest positive correlation across conditions and between animals. Implications of the results for the quantification of reinforcer value and for the use of progressive-ratio schedules in behavioral neuroscience are discussed.

12 CFR 1750.4 - Minimum capital requirement computation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... amounts: (1) 2.50 percent times the aggregate on-balance sheet assets of the Enterprise; (2) 0.45 percent times the unpaid principal balance of mortgage-backed securities and substantially equivalent... last day of the quarter just ended (or the date for which the minimum capital report is filed, if...

Desensitization and recovery of phototropic responsiveness in Arabidopsis thaliana

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

Janoudi, A.K.; Poff, K.L.

1993-04-01

Phototropism is induced by blue light, which also induces desensitization, a partial or total loss of phototropic responsiveness. The fluence and fluence-rate dependence of densensitization and recovery from desensitization have been measured for etiolated and red light (669-nm) preirradiated Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. The extent of desensitization increased as the fluence of the desensitizing 450-nm light was increased from 0.3 to 60 [mu]mol m[sup [minus]2] s[sup [minus]1]. At equal fluences, blue light caused more desensitization when given at a fluence rate of 1.0 [mu]mol m[sup [minus]2] s[sup [minus]1] than at 0.3 [mu]mol m[sup [minus]2] s[sup [minus]1]. In addition, seedlings irradiated withmore » blue light at the higher fluence rate required a longer recovery time than seedlings irradiated at the lower fluence rate. A red light preirradiation, probably mediated via phytochrome, decreased the time required for recovery from desensitization. The minimum time for detectable recovery was about 65 s, and the maximum time observed was about 10 min. It is proposed that the descending arm of the fluence-response relationship for first positive phototropism is a consequence of desensitization, and that the time threshold for second positive phototropism establishes a period during which recovery from desensitization occurs. 11 refs., 6 figs.« less

49 CFR Appendix B to Part 179 - Procedures for Simulated Pool and Torch-Fire Testing

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... thermal response of the plate. (3) Before exposure to the pool-fire simulation, none of the thermocouples... exposed to the simulated pool fire. (5) A pool-fire simulation test must run for a minimum of 100 minutes...) A minimum of three consecutive successful simulation fire tests must be performed for each thermal...

49 CFR Appendix B to Part 179 - Procedures for Simulated Pool and Torch-Fire Testing

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... thermal response of the plate. (3) Before exposure to the pool-fire simulation, none of the thermocouples... exposed to the simulated pool fire. (5) A pool-fire simulation test must run for a minimum of 100 minutes...) A minimum of three consecutive successful simulation fire tests must be performed for each thermal...

Minimum College Admission Standards for Students Entering College or University Summer or Fall 2012. [Revised Mar 2011

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Washington Higher Education Coordinating Board, 2011

2011-01-01

The Higher Education Coordinating Board (HECB) has responsibility to "Establish minimum admission standards for four-year institutions, including a requirement that coursework in American sign language or an American Indian language shall satisfy any requirement for instruction in a language other than English that the board or the…

40 CFR 122.35 - As an operator of a regulated small MS4, may I share the responsibility to implement the minimum...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

....35 Section 122.35 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS EPA ADMINISTERED PERMIT PROGRAMS: THE NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM Permit... minimum control measure(s) in your storm water management program. (For example, if a State or Tribe is...

40 CFR 122.35 - As an operator of a regulated small MS4, may I share the responsibility to implement the minimum...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

....35 Section 122.35 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) WATER PROGRAMS EPA ADMINISTERED PERMIT PROGRAMS: THE NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM Permit... minimum control measure(s) in your storm water management program. (For example, if a State or Tribe is...

Committed sea-level rise for the next century from Greenland ice sheet dynamics during the past decade

PubMed Central

Price, Stephen F.; Payne, Antony J.; Howat, Ian M.; Smith, Benjamin E.

2011-01-01

We use a three-dimensional, higher-order ice flow model and a realistic initial condition to simulate dynamic perturbations to the Greenland ice sheet during the last decade and to assess their contribution to sea level by 2100. Starting from our initial condition, we apply a time series of observationally constrained dynamic perturbations at the marine termini of Greenland’s three largest outlet glaciers, Jakobshavn Isbræ, Helheim Glacier, and Kangerdlugssuaq Glacier. The initial and long-term diffusive thinning within each glacier catchment is then integrated spatially and temporally to calculate a minimum sea-level contribution of approximately 1 ± 0.4 mm from these three glaciers by 2100. Based on scaling arguments, we extend our modeling to all of Greenland and estimate a minimum dynamic sea-level contribution of approximately 6 ± 2 mm by 2100. This estimate of committed sea-level rise is a minimum because it ignores mass loss due to future changes in ice sheet dynamics or surface mass balance. Importantly, > 75% of this value is from the long-term, diffusive response of the ice sheet, suggesting that the majority of sea-level rise from Greenland dynamics during the past decade is yet to come. Assuming similar and recurring forcing in future decades and a self-similar ice dynamical response, we estimate an upper bound of 45 mm of sea-level rise from Greenland dynamics by 2100. These estimates are constrained by recent observations of dynamic mass loss in Greenland and by realistic model behavior that accounts for both the long-term cumulative mass loss and its decay following episodic boundary forcing. PMID:21576500

Committed sea-level rise for the next century from Greenland ice sheet dynamics during the past decade.

PubMed

Price, Stephen F; Payne, Antony J; Howat, Ian M; Smith, Benjamin E

2011-05-31

We use a three-dimensional, higher-order ice flow model and a realistic initial condition to simulate dynamic perturbations to the Greenland ice sheet during the last decade and to assess their contribution to sea level by 2100. Starting from our initial condition, we apply a time series of observationally constrained dynamic perturbations at the marine termini of Greenland's three largest outlet glaciers, Jakobshavn Isbræ, Helheim Glacier, and Kangerdlugssuaq Glacier. The initial and long-term diffusive thinning within each glacier catchment is then integrated spatially and temporally to calculate a minimum sea-level contribution of approximately 1 ± 0.4 mm from these three glaciers by 2100. Based on scaling arguments, we extend our modeling to all of Greenland and estimate a minimum dynamic sea-level contribution of approximately 6 ± 2 mm by 2100. This estimate of committed sea-level rise is a minimum because it ignores mass loss due to future changes in ice sheet dynamics or surface mass balance. Importantly, > 75% of this value is from the long-term, diffusive response of the ice sheet, suggesting that the majority of sea-level rise from Greenland dynamics during the past decade is yet to come. Assuming similar and recurring forcing in future decades and a self-similar ice dynamical response, we estimate an upper bound of 45 mm of sea-level rise from Greenland dynamics by 2100. These estimates are constrained by recent observations of dynamic mass loss in Greenland and by realistic model behavior that accounts for both the long-term cumulative mass loss and its decay following episodic boundary forcing.

Interaction between maropitant and carprofen on sparing of the minimum alveolar concentration for blunting adrenergic response (MAC-BAR) of sevoflurane in dogs

PubMed Central

FUKUI, Sho; OOYAMA, Norihiko; TAMURA, Jun; UMAR, Mohammed Ahmed; ISHIZUKA, Tomohito; ITAMI, Takaharu; MIYOSHI, Kenjiro; SANO, Tadashi; YAMASHITA, Kazuto

2017-01-01

Maropitant, a neurokinin-1 receptor antagonist, may provide analgesic effects by blocking pharmacological action of substance P. Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug commonly used for pain control in dogs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a combination of maropitant and carprofen on the minimum alveolar concentration for blunting adrenergic response (MAC-BAR) of sevoflurane in dogs. Six healthy adult beagle dogs were anesthetized with sevoflurane four times with a minimum of 7-day washout period. On each occasion, maropitant (1 mg/kg) alone, carprofen (4 mg/kg) alone, a combination of maropitant (1 mg/kg) and carprofen (4 mg/kg), or saline (0.1 ml/kg) was subcutaneously administered at 1 hr prior to the first electrical stimulation for the sevoflurane MAC-BAR determination. The sevoflurane MAC-BAR was significantly reduced by maropitant alone (2.88 ± 0.73%, P=0.010), carprofen alone (2.96 ± 0.38%, P=0.016) and the combination (2.81 ± 0.51%, P=0.0003), compared with saline (3.37 ± 0.56%). There was no significant difference in the percentage of MAC-BAR reductions between maropitant alone, carprofen alone and the combination. The administration of maropitant alone and carprofen alone produced clinically significant sparing effects on the sevoflurane MAC-BAR in dogs. However, the combination of maropitant and carprofen did not produce any additive effect on the sevoflurane MAC-BAR reduction. Anesthetic premedication with a combination of maropitant and carprofen may not provide any further sparing effect on anesthetic requirement in dogs. PMID:28111373

Interaction between maropitant and carprofen on sparing of the minimum alveolar concentration for blunting adrenergic response (MAC-BAR) of sevoflurane in dogs.

PubMed

Fukui, Sho; Ooyama, Norihiko; Tamura, Jun; Umar, Mohammed Ahmed; Ishizuka, Tomohito; Itami, Takaharu; Miyoshi, Kenjiro; Sano, Tadashi; Yamashita, Kazuto

2017-03-18

Maropitant, a neurokinin-1 receptor antagonist, may provide analgesic effects by blocking pharmacological action of substance P. Carprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug commonly used for pain control in dogs. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a combination of maropitant and carprofen on the minimum alveolar concentration for blunting adrenergic response (MAC-BAR) of sevoflurane in dogs. Six healthy adult beagle dogs were anesthetized with sevoflurane four times with a minimum of 7-day washout period. On each occasion, maropitant (1 mg/kg) alone, carprofen (4 mg/kg) alone, a combination of maropitant (1 mg/kg) and carprofen (4 mg/kg), or saline (0.1 ml/kg) was subcutaneously administered at 1 hr prior to the first electrical stimulation for the sevoflurane MAC-BAR determination. The sevoflurane MAC-BAR was significantly reduced by maropitant alone (2.88 ± 0.73%, P=0.010), carprofen alone (2.96 ± 0.38%, P=0.016) and the combination (2.81 ± 0.51%, P=0.0003), compared with saline (3.37 ± 0.56%). There was no significant difference in the percentage of MAC-BAR reductions between maropitant alone, carprofen alone and the combination. The administration of maropitant alone and carprofen alone produced clinically significant sparing effects on the sevoflurane MAC-BAR in dogs. However, the combination of maropitant and carprofen did not produce any additive effect on the sevoflurane MAC-BAR reduction. Anesthetic premedication with a combination of maropitant and carprofen may not provide any further sparing effect on anesthetic requirement in dogs.

Susceptibility of Candida glabrata biofilms to echinocandins: alterations in the matrix composition.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Célia F; Rodrigues, Maria Elisa; Henriques, Mariana

2018-05-25

Candidiases are the most recurrent fungal infections, especially among immunosuppressed patients. Although Candida albicans is still the most widespread isolated species, non-Candida albicans Candida species have been increasing. The goal of this work was to determine the susceptibility of C. glabrata biofilms to echinocandins and to evaluate their effect on the biofilm matrix composition, comparing the results with other Candida species. Drug susceptibilities were assessed through the determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) and minimum biofilm eradication concentration (MBEC) of caspofungin (Csf) and micafugin (Mcf). The β-1,3 glucans content of the matrices was assessed after contact with the drugs. The data suggest that, generally, after contact with echinocandins, the concentration of β-1,3 glucans increased. These adjustments in the matrix composition of C. glabrata biofilms and the chemical differences between Csf and Mcf, seem responsible and may determine the effectivity of the drug responses.

A sense of urgency: Evaluating the link between clinical trial development time and the accrual performance of cancer therapy evaluation program (NCI-CTEP) sponsored studies.

PubMed

Cheng, Steven K; Dietrich, Mary S; Dilts, David M

2010-11-15

Postactivation barriers to oncology clinical trial accruals are well documented; however, potential barriers prior to trial opening are not. We investigate one such barrier: trial development time. National Cancer Institute Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP)-sponsored trials for all therapeutic, nonpediatric phase I, I/II, II, and III studies activated between 2000 and 2004 were investigated for an 8-year period (n = 419). Successful trials were those achieving 100% of minimum accrual goal. Time to open a study was the calendar time from initial CTEP submission to trial activation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to calculate unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (OR), controlling for study phase and size of expected accruals. Among the CTEP-approved oncology trials, 37.9% (n = 221) failed to attain the minimum accrual goals, with 70.8% (n = 14) of phase III trials resulting in poor accrual. A total of 16,474 patients (42.5% of accruals) accrued to those studies were unable to achieve the projected minimum accrual goal. Trials requiring less than 12 months of development were significantly more likely to achieve accrual goals (OR, 2.15; 95% confidence interval, 1.29-3.57, P = 0.003) than trials with the median development times of 12 to 18 months. Trials requiring a development time of greater than 24 months were significantly less likely to achieve accrual goals (OR, 0.40; 95% confidence interval, 0.20-0.78; P = 0.011) than trials with the median development time. A large percentage of oncology clinical trials do not achieve minimum projected accruals. Trial development time appears to be one important predictor of the likelihood of successfully achieving the minimum accrual goals. ©2010 AACR.

12 CFR Appendix M1 to Part 1026 - Repayment Disclosures

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... terms of a cardholder's account that will expire in a fixed period of time, as set forth by the card... estimates. (1) Minimum payment formulas. When calculating the minimum payment repayment estimate, card... calculate the minimum payment amount for special purchases, such as a “club plan purchase.” Also, assume...

12 CFR Appendix M1 to Part 1026 - Repayment Disclosures

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... terms of a cardholder's account that will expire in a fixed period of time, as set forth by the card... estimates. (1) Minimum payment formulas. When calculating the minimum payment repayment estimate, card... calculate the minimum payment amount for special purchases, such as a “club plan purchase.” Also, assume...

5 CFR 875.212 - Is there a minimum application age?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Is there a minimum application age? 875.212 Section 875.212 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE... application age? Yes, there is a minimum application age. You must be at least 18 years old at the time you...

5 CFR 875.212 - Is there a minimum application age?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Is there a minimum application age? 875.212 Section 875.212 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE... application age? Yes, there is a minimum application age. You must be at least 18 years old at the time you...

5 CFR 875.212 - Is there a minimum application age?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Is there a minimum application age? 875.212 Section 875.212 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE... application age? Yes, there is a minimum application age. You must be at least 18 years old at the time you...

5 CFR 875.212 - Is there a minimum application age?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Is there a minimum application age? 875.212 Section 875.212 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE... application age? Yes, there is a minimum application age. You must be at least 18 years old at the time you...

5 CFR 875.212 - Is there a minimum application age?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 5 Administrative Personnel 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Is there a minimum application age? 875.212 Section 875.212 Administrative Personnel OFFICE OF PERSONNEL MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED) CIVIL SERVICE... application age? Yes, there is a minimum application age. You must be at least 18 years old at the time you...

The Effect of Minimum Wage Rates on High School Completion

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Warren, John Robert; Hamrock, Caitlin

2010-01-01

Does increasing the minimum wage reduce the high school completion rate? Previous research has suffered from (1. narrow time horizons, (2. potentially inadequate measures of states' high school completion rates, and (3. potentially inadequate measures of minimum wage rates. Overcoming each of these limitations, we analyze the impact of changes in…

29 CFR 780.301 - Other pertinent statutory provisions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Employment in Agriculture That Is Exempted From the Minimum Wage and Overtime Pay Requirements Under Section... minimum wage protection (section 6(a)(5)) for agriculture workers for the first time sought to provide a minimum wage floor for the farmworkers on large farms or agri-business enterprises. The section 13(a)(6)(A...

Reactive Resonances in N+N2 Exchange Reaction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Dunyou; Huo, Winifred M.; Dateo, Christopher E.; Schwenke, David W.; Stallcop, James R.

2003-01-01

Rich reactive resonances are found in a 3D quantum dynamics study of the N + N2 exchange reaction using a recently developed ab initio potential energy surface. This surface is characterized by a feature in the interaction region called Lake Eyring , that is, two symmetric transition states with a shallow minimum between them. An L2 analysis of the quasibound states associated with the shallow minimum confirms that the quasibound states associated with oscillations in all three degrees of freedom in Lake Eyring are responsible for the reactive resonances in the state-to-state reaction probabilities. The quasibound states, mostly the bending motions, give rise to strong reasonance peaks, whereas other motions contribute to the bumps and shoulders in the resonance structure. The initial state reaction probability further proves that the bending motions are the dominating factors of the reaction probability and have longer life times than the stretching motions. This is the first observation of reactive resonances from a "Lake Eyring" feature in a potential energy surface.

Potential Seasonal Terrestrial Water Storage Monitoring from GPS Vertical Displacements: A Case Study in the Lower Three-Rivers Headwater Region, China.

PubMed

Zhang, Bao; Yao, Yibin; Fok, Hok Sum; Hu, Yufeng; Chen, Qiang

2016-09-19

This study uses the observed vertical displacements of Global Positioning System (GPS) time series obtained from the Crustal Movement Observation Network of China (CMONOC) with careful pre- and post-processing to estimate the seasonal crustal deformation in response to the hydrological loading in lower three-rivers headwater region of southwest China, followed by inferring the annual EWH changes through geodetic inversion methods. The Helmert Variance Component Estimation (HVCE) and the Minimum Mean Square Error (MMSE) criterion were successfully employed. The GPS inferred EWH changes agree well qualitatively with the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE)-inferred and the Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS)-inferred EWH changes, with a discrepancy of 3.2-3.9 cm and 4.8-5.2 cm, respectively. In the research areas, the EWH changes in the Lancang basin is larger than in the other regions, with a maximum of 21.8-24.7 cm and a minimum of 3.1-6.9 cm.

Coding for Communication Channels with Dead-Time Constraints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moision, Bruce; Hamkins, Jon

2004-01-01

Coding schemes have been designed and investigated specifically for optical and electronic data-communication channels in which information is conveyed via pulse-position modulation (PPM) subject to dead-time constraints. These schemes involve the use of error-correcting codes concatenated with codes denoted constrained codes. These codes are decoded using an interactive method. In pulse-position modulation, time is partitioned into frames of Mslots of equal duration. Each frame contains one pulsed slot (all others are non-pulsed). For a given channel, the dead-time constraints are defined as a maximum and a minimum on the allowable time between pulses. For example, if a Q-switched laser is used to transmit the pulses, then the minimum allowable dead time is the time needed to recharge the laser for the next pulse. In the case of bits recorded on a magnetic medium, the minimum allowable time between pulses depends on the recording/playback speed and the minimum distance between pulses needed to prevent interference between adjacent bits during readout. The maximum allowable dead time for a given channel is the maximum time for which it is possible to satisfy the requirement to synchronize slots. In mathematical shorthand, the dead-time constraints for a given channel are represented by the pair of integers (d,k), where d is the minimum allowable number of zeroes between ones and k is the maximum allowable number of zeroes between ones. A system of the type to which the present schemes apply is represented by a binary- input, real-valued-output channel model illustrated in the figure. At the transmitting end, information bits are first encoded by use of an error-correcting code, then further encoded by use of a constrained code. Several constrained codes for channels subject to constraints of (d,infinity) have been investigated theoretically and computationally. The baseline codes chosen for purposes of comparison were simple PPM codes characterized by M-slot PPM frames separated by d-slot dead times.

Development of a chromatographic method with multi-criteria decision making design for simultaneous determination of nifedipine and atenolol in content uniformity testing.

PubMed

Ahmed, Sameh; Alqurshi, Abdulmalik; Mohamed, Abdel-Maaboud Ismail

2018-07-01

A new robust and reliable high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method with multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) approach was developed to allow simultaneous quantification of atenolol (ATN) and nifedipine (NFD) in content uniformity testing. Felodipine (FLD) was used as an internal standard (I.S.) in this study. A novel marriage between a new interactive response optimizer and a HPLC method was suggested for multiple response optimizations of target responses. An interactive response optimizer was used as a decision and prediction tool for the optimal settings of target responses, according to specified criteria, based on Derringer's desirability. Four independent variables were considered in this study: Acetonitrile%, buffer pH and concentration along with column temperature. Eight responses were optimized: retention times of ATN, NFD, and FLD, resolutions between ATN/NFD and NFD/FLD, and plate numbers for ATN, NFD, and FLD. Multiple regression analysis was applied in order to scan the influences of the most significant variables for the regression models. The experimental design was set to give minimum retention times, maximum resolution and plate numbers. The interactive response optimizer allowed prediction of optimum conditions according to these criteria with a good composite desirability value of 0.98156. The developed method was validated according to the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines with the aid of the experimental design. The developed MCDM-HPLC method showed superior robustness and resolution in short analysis time allowing successful simultaneous content uniformity testing of ATN and NFD in marketed capsules. The current work presents an interactive response optimizer as an efficient platform to optimize, predict responses, and validate HPLC methodology with tolerable design space for assay in quality control laboratories. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Ionospheric reaction on sudden stratospheric warming events in Russiás Asia region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Polyakova, Anna; Perevalova, Natalya; Chernigovskaya, Marina

2015-12-01

The response of the ionosphere to sudden stratospheric warmings (SSWs) in the Asian region of Russia is studied. Two SSW events observed in 2008-2009 and 2012-2013 winter periods of extreme solar minimum and moderate solar maximum are considered. To detect the ionospheric effects caused by SSWs, we carried out a joint analysis of global ionospheric maps (GIM) of the total electron content (TEC), MLS (Microwave Limb Sounder, EOS Aura) measurements of temperature vertical profiles, as well as NCEP/NCAR and UKMO Reanalysis data. For the first time, it was found that during strong SSWs, in the mid-latitude ionosphere the amplitude of diurnal TEC variation decreases nearly half compared to quiet days. At the same time, the intensity of TEC deviations from the background level increases. It was also found that at SSW peak the midday TEC maximum decreases, and night/morning TEC values increase compared to quiet days. It was shown that during SSWs, TEC dynamics was identical for different geophysical conditions.The response of the ionosphere to sudden stratospheric warmings (SSWs) in the Asian region of Russia is studied. Two SSW events observed in 2008-2009 and 2012-2013 winter periods of extreme solar minimum and moderate solar maximum are considered. To detect the ionospheric effects caused by SSWs, we carried out a joint analysis of global ionospheric maps (GIM) of the total electron content (TEC), MLS (Microwave Limb Sounder, EOS Aura) measurements of temperature vertical profiles, as well as NCEP/NCAR and UKMO Reanalysis data. For the first time, it was found that during strong SSWs, in the mid-latitude ionosphere the amplitude of diurnal TEC variation decreases nearly half compared to quiet days. At the same time, the intensity of TEC deviations from the background level increases. It was also found that at SSW peak the midday TEC maximum decreases, and night/morning TEC values increase compared to quiet days. It was shown that during SSWs, TEC dynamics was identical for different geophysical conditions.

Comparison of Resource Requirements for a Wind Tunnel Test Designed with Conventional vs. Modern Design of Experiments Methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DeLoach, Richard; Micol, John R.

2011-01-01

The factors that determine data volume requirements in a typical wind tunnel test are identified. It is suggested that productivity in wind tunnel testing can be enhanced by managing the inference error risk associated with evaluating residuals in a response surface modeling experiment. The relationship between minimum data volume requirements and the factors upon which they depend is described and certain simplifications to this relationship are realized when specific model adequacy criteria are adopted. The question of response model residual evaluation is treated and certain practical aspects of response surface modeling are considered, including inference subspace truncation. A wind tunnel test plan developed by using the Modern Design of Experiments illustrates the advantages of an early estimate of data volume requirements. Comparisons are made with a representative One Factor At a Time (OFAT) wind tunnel test matrix developed to evaluate a surface to air missile.

49 CFR 238.230 - Safety appliances-new equipment.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... a minimum weld strength, based on yield, of three times the strength of the number of SAE grade 2, 1...; (v) The weld is designed for infinite fatigue life in the application that it will be placed; (vi... upon request. At a minimum, this record shall include the date, time, location, identification of the...

Recent Studies of the Behavior of the Sun's White-Light Corona Over Time

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

SaintCyr, O. C.; Young, D. E.; Pesnell, W. D.; Lecinski, A.; Eddy, J.

2008-01-01

Predictions of upcoming solar cycles are often related to the nature and dynamics of the Sun's polar magnetic field and its influence on the corona. For the past 30 years we have a more-or-less continuous record of the Sun's white-light corona from groundbased and spacebased coronagraphs. Over that interval, the large scale features of the corona have varied in what we now consider a 'predictable' fashion--complex, showing multiple streamers at all latitudes during solar activity maximum; and a simple dipolar shape aligned with the rotational pole during solar minimum. Over the past three decades the white-light corona appears to be a better indicator of 'true' solar minimum than sunspot number since sunspots disappear for months (even years) at solar minimum. Since almost all predictions of the timing of the next solar maximum depend on the timing of solar minimum, the white-light corona is a potentially important observational discriminator for future predictors. In this contribution we describe recent work quantifying the large-scale appearance of the Sun's corona to correlate it with the sunspot record, especially around solar minimum. These three decades can be expanded with the HAO archive of eclipse photographs which, although sparse compared to the coronagraphic coverage, extends back to 1869. A more extensive understanding of this proxy would give researchers confidence in using the white-light corona as an indicator of solar minimum conditions.

Robustification and Optimization in Repetitive Control For Minimum Phase and Non-Minimum Phase Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasitmeeboon, Pitcha

Repetitive control (RC) is a control method that specifically aims to converge to zero tracking error of a control systems that execute a periodic command or have periodic disturbances of known period. It uses the error of one period back to adjust the command in the present period. In theory, RC can completely eliminate periodic disturbance effects. RC has applications in many fields such as high-precision manufacturing in robotics, computer disk drives, and active vibration isolation in spacecraft. The first topic treated in this dissertation develops several simple RC design methods that are somewhat analogous to PID controller design in classical control. From the early days of digital control, emulation methods were developed based on a Forward Rule, a Backward Rule, Tustin's Formula, a modification using prewarping, and a pole-zero mapping method. These allowed one to convert a candidate controller design to discrete time in a simple way. We investigate to what extent they can be used to simplify RC design. A particular design is developed from modification of the pole-zero mapping rules, which is simple and sheds light on the robustness of repetitive control designs. RC convergence requires less than 90 degree model phase error at all frequencies up to Nyquist. A zero-phase cutoff filter is normally used to robustify to high frequency model error when this limit is exceeded. The result is stabilization at the expense of failure to cancel errors above the cutoff. The second topic investigates a series of methods to use data to make real time updates of the frequency response model, allowing one to increase or eliminate the frequency cutoff. These include the use of a moving window employing a recursive discrete Fourier transform (DFT), and use of a real time projection algorithm from adaptive control for each frequency. The results can be used directly to make repetitive control corrections that cancel each error frequency, or they can be used to update a repetitive control FIR compensator. The aim is to reduce the final error level by using real time frequency response model updates to successively increase the cutoff frequency, each time creating the improved model needed to produce convergence zero error up to the higher cutoff. Non-minimum phase systems present a difficult design challenge to the sister field of Iterative Learning Control. The third topic investigates to what extent the same challenges appear in RC. One challenge is that the intrinsic non-minimum phase zero mapped from continuous time is close to the pole of repetitive controller at +1 creating behavior similar to pole-zero cancellation. The near pole-zero cancellation causes slow learning at DC and low frequencies. The Min-Max cost function over the learning rate is presented. The Min-Max can be reformulated as a Quadratically Constrained Linear Programming problem. This approach is shown to be an RC design approach that addresses the main challenge of non-minimum phase systems to have a reasonable learning rate at DC. Although it was illustrated that using the Min-Max objective improves learning at DC and low frequencies compared to other designs, the method requires model accuracy at high frequencies. In the real world, models usually have error at high frequencies. The fourth topic addresses how one can merge the quadratic penalty to the Min-Max cost function to increase robustness at high frequencies. The topic also considers limiting the Min-Max optimization to some frequencies interval and applying an FIR zero-phase low-pass filter to cutoff the learning for frequencies above that interval.

Determination of Vertical Borehole and Geological Formation Properties using the Crossed Contour Method

PubMed Central

Leyde, Brian P.; Klein, Sanford A; Nellis, Gregory F.; Skye, Harrison

2017-01-01

This paper presents a new method called the Crossed Contour Method for determining the effective properties (borehole radius and ground thermal conductivity) of a vertical ground-coupled heat exchanger. The borehole radius is used as a proxy for the overall borehole thermal resistance. The method has been applied to both simulated and experimental borehole Thermal Response Test (TRT) data using the Duct Storage vertical ground heat exchanger model implemented in the TRansient SYstems Simulation software (TRNSYS). The Crossed Contour Method generates a parametric grid of simulated TRT data for different combinations of borehole radius and ground thermal conductivity in a series of time windows. The error between the average of the simulated and experimental bore field inlet and outlet temperatures is calculated for each set of borehole properties within each time window. Using these data, contours of the minimum error are constructed in the parameter space of borehole radius and ground thermal conductivity. When all of the minimum error contours for each time window are superimposed, the point where the contours cross (intersect) identifies the effective borehole properties for the model that most closely represents the experimental data in every time window and thus over the entire length of the experimental data set. The computed borehole properties are compared with results from existing model inversion methods including the Ground Property Measurement (GPM) software developed by Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and the Line Source Model. PMID:28785125

Use patterns among early adopters of adaptive cruise control.

PubMed

Xiong, Huimin; Boyle, Linda Ng; Moeckli, Jane; Dow, Benjamin R; Brown, Timothy L

2012-10-01

The objective of this study was to investigate use patterns among early adopters of adaptive cruise control (ACC). Extended use ofACC may influence a driver's behavior in the long-term, which can have unintended safety consequences. The authors examined the use of a motion-based simulator by 24 participants (15 males and 9 females). Cluster analysis was performed on drivers' use of ACC and was based on their gap settings, speed settings, number of warnings issued, and ACC disengaged. The data were then examined on the basis of driving performance measures and drivers' subjective responses to trust in ACC, understanding of system operations, and driving styles. Driving performance measures included minimum time headway, adjusted minimum time to collision, and drivers' reaction time to critical events. Three groups of drivers were observed on the basis of risky behavior, moderately risky behavior, and conservative behavior. Drivers in the conservative group stayed farther behind the lead vehicle than did drivers in the other two groups. Risky drivers responded later to critical events and had more ACC warnings issued. Safety consequences with ACC may be more prevalent in some driver groups than others. The findings suggest that these safety implications are related to trust in automation, driving styles, understanding of system operations, and personalities. Potential applications of this research include enhanced design for next-generation ACC systems and countermeasures to improve safe driving with ACC.

Determining minimum staffing levels during snowstorms using an integrated simulation, regression, and reliability model.

PubMed

Kunkel, Amber; McLay, Laura A

2013-03-01

Emergency medical services (EMS) provide life-saving care and hospital transport to patients with severe trauma or medical conditions. Severe weather events, such as snow events, may lead to adverse patient outcomes by increasing call volumes and service times. Adequate staffing levels during such weather events are critical for ensuring that patients receive timely care. To determine staffing levels that depend on weather, we propose a model that uses a discrete event simulation of a reliability model to identify minimum staffing levels that provide timely patient care, with regression used to provide the input parameters. The system is said to be reliable if there is a high degree of confidence that ambulances can immediately respond to a given proportion of patients (e.g., 99 %). Four weather scenarios capture varying levels of snow falling and snow on the ground. An innovative feature of our approach is that we evaluate the mitigating effects of different extrinsic response policies and intrinsic system adaptation. The models use data from Hanover County, Virginia to quantify how snow reduces EMS system reliability and necessitates increasing staffing levels. The model and its analysis can assist in EMS preparedness by providing a methodology to adjust staffing levels during weather events. A key observation is that when it is snowing, intrinsic system adaptation has similar effects on system reliability as one additional ambulance.

Financial responsibility requirements for commercial motor vehicles.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-01-01

Minimum liability insurance levels and related requirements for motor carriers to demonstrate financial responsibility in case of damages from crashes were established in the 1980s by Congressional legislation. These levels have not been changed s...

A nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist affects honey bee sucrose responsiveness and decreases waggle dancing.

PubMed

Eiri, Daren M; Nieh, James C

2012-06-15

A nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist, imidacloprid, impairs memory formation in honey bees and has general effects on foraging. However, little is known about how this agonist affects two specific aspects of foraging: sucrose responsiveness (SR) and waggle dancing (which recruits nestmates). Using lab and field experiments, we tested the effect of sublethal doses of imidacloprid on (1) bee SR with the proboscis extension response assay, and (2) free-flying foragers visiting and dancing for a sucrose feeder. Bees that ingested imidacloprid (0.21 or 2.16 ng bee(-1)) had higher sucrose response thresholds 1 h after treatment. Foragers that ingested imidacloprid also produced significantly fewer waggle dance circuits (10.5- and 4.5-fold fewer for 50% and 30% sucrose solutions, respectively) 24 h after treatment as compared with controls. However, there was no significant effect of imidacloprid on the sucrose concentrations that foragers collected at a feeder 24 h after treatment. Thus, imidacloprid temporarily increased the minimum sucrose concentration that foragers would accept (short time scale, 1 h after treatment) and reduced waggle dancing (longer time scale, 24 h after treatment). The effect of time suggests different neurological effects of imidacloprid resulting from the parent compound and its metabolites. Waggle dancing can significantly increase colony food intake, and thus a sublethal dose (0.21 ng bee(-1), 24 p.p.b.) of this commonly used pesticide may impair colony fitness.

Army Sustainability Report 2010

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-01

a vastly complex concept: it is an organizing principle that factors mission, environment, community and economic benefit into each of its...Report on a minimum of 10 performance indicators, including at least one from each of : economic , social and environmental Report on a minimum...FY09 in a partial performance baseline. It is based on a subset of the economic , environmental and social responsibility performance

Analysis of Trajectory Parameters for Probe and Round-Trip Missions to Venus

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dugan, James F., Jr.; Simsic, Carl R.

1960-01-01

For one-way transfers between Earth and Venus, charts are obtained that show velocity, time, and angle parameters as functions of the eccentricity and semilatus rectum of the Sun-focused vehicle conic. From these curves, others are obtained that are useful in planning one-way and round-trip missions to Venus. The analysis is characterized by circular coplanar planetary orbits, successive two-body approximations, impulsive velocity changes, and circular parking orbits at 1.1 planet radii. For round trips the mission time considered ranges from 65 to 788 days, while wait time spent in the parking orbit at Venus ranges from 0 to 467 days. Individual velocity increments, one-way travel times, and departure dates are presented for round trips requiring the minimum total velocity increment. For both single-pass and orbiting Venusian probes, the time span available for launch becomes appreciable with only a small increase in velocity-increment capability above the minimum requirement. Velocity-increment increases are much more effective in reducing travel time for single-pass probes than they are for orbiting probes. Round trips composed of a direct route along an ellipse tangent to Earth's orbit and an aphelion route result in the minimum total velocity increment for wait times less than 100 days and mission times ranging from 145 to 612 days. Minimum-total-velocity-increment trips may be taken along perihelion-perihelion routes for wait times ranging from 300 to 467 days. These wait times occur during missions lasting from 640 to 759 days.

Respiratory reflexes in spontaneously breathing anesthetized dogs in response to nasal administration of sevoflurane, isoflurane, or halothane.

PubMed

Mutoh, T; Kanamaru, A; Suzuki, H; Tsubone, H; Nishimura, R; Sasaki, N

2001-03-01

To characterize respiratory reflexes elicited by nasal administration of sevoflurane (Sevo), isoflurane (Iso), or halothane (Hal) in anesthetized dogs. 8 healthy Beagles. A permanent tracheostomy was created in each dog. Two to 3 weeks later, dogs were anesthetized by IV administration of thiopental and alpha-chloralose. Nasal passages were isolated such that inhalant anesthetics could be administered to the nasal passages while the dogs were breathing 100% O2 via the tracheostomy. Respiratory reflexes in response to administration of each anesthetic at 1.2 and 2.4 times the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) and the full vaporizer setting (5%) were recorded. Reflexes in response to administration of 5% of each anesthetic also were recorded following administration of lidocaine to the nasal passages. Nasal administration of Sevo, Iso, and Hal induced an immediate ventilatory response characterized by a dose-dependent increase in expiratory time and a resulting decrease in expired volume per unit of time. All anesthetics had a significant effect, but for Sevo, the changes were smaller in magnitude. Responses to administration of each anesthetic were attenuated by administration of lidocaine to the nasal passages. Nasal administration of Sevo at concentrations generally used for mask induction of anesthesia induced milder reflex inhibition of breathing, presumably via afferent neurons in the nasal passages, than that of Iso or Hal. Respiratory reflexes attributable to stimulation of the nasal passages may contribute to speed of onset and could promote a smoother induction with Sevo, compared with Iso or Hal.

How Does Definition of Minimum Break Length Affect Objective Measures of Sitting Outcomes Among Office Workers?

PubMed

Kloster, Stine; Danquah, Ida Høgstedt; Holtermann, Andreas; Aadahl, Mette; Tolstrup, Janne Schurmann

2017-01-01

Harmful health effects associated with sedentary behavior may be attenuated by breaking up long periods of sitting by standing or walking. However, studies assess interruptions in sitting time differently, making comparisons between studies difficult. It has not previously been described how the definition of minimum break duration affects sitting outcomes. Therefore, the aim was to address how definitions of break length affect total sitting time, number of sit-to-stand transitions, prolonged sitting periods and time accumulated in prolonged sitting periods among office workers. Data were collected from 317 office workers. Thigh position was assessed with an ActiGraph GT3X+ fixed on the right thigh. Data were exported with varying bout length of breaks. Afterward, sitting outcomes were calculated for the respective break lengths. Absolute numbers of sit-to-stand transitions decreased, and number of prolonged sitting periods and total time accumulated in prolonged sitting periods increased, with increasing minimum break length. Total sitting time was not influenced by varying break length. The definition of minimum break length influenced the sitting outcomes with the exception of total sitting time. A standard definition of break length is needed for comparison and interpretation of studies in the evolving research field of sedentary behavior.

Biochemical methane potential (BMP) tests: Reducing test time by early parameter estimation.

PubMed

Da Silva, C; Astals, S; Peces, M; Campos, J L; Guerrero, L

2018-01-01

Biochemical methane potential (BMP) test is a key analytical technique to assess the implementation and optimisation of anaerobic biotechnologies. However, this technique is characterised by long testing times (from 20 to >100days), which is not suitable for waste utilities, consulting companies or plants operators whose decision-making processes cannot be held for such a long time. This study develops a statistically robust mathematical strategy using sensitivity functions for early prediction of BMP first-order model parameters, i.e. methane yield (B 0 ) and kinetic constant rate (k). The minimum testing time for early parameter estimation showed a potential correlation with the k value, where (i) slowly biodegradable substrates (k≤0.1d -1 ) have a minimum testing times of ≥15days, (ii) moderately biodegradable substrates (0.1

PAVENET OS: A Compact Hard Real-Time Operating System for Precise Sampling in Wireless Sensor Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saruwatari, Shunsuke; Suzuki, Makoto; Morikawa, Hiroyuki

The paper shows a compact hard real-time operating system for wireless sensor nodes called PAVENET OS. PAVENET OS provides hybrid multithreading: preemptive multithreading and cooperative multithreading. Both of the multithreading are optimized for two kinds of tasks on wireless sensor networks, and those are real-time tasks and best-effort ones. PAVENET OS can efficiently perform hard real-time tasks that cannot be performed by TinyOS. The paper demonstrates the hybrid multithreading realizes compactness and low overheads, which are comparable to those of TinyOS, through quantitative evaluation. The evaluation results show PAVENET OS performs 100 Hz sensor sampling with 0.01% jitter while performing wireless communication tasks, whereas optimized TinyOS has 0.62% jitter. In addition, PAVENET OS has a small footprint and low overheads (minimum RAM size: 29 bytes, minimum ROM size: 490 bytes, minimum task switch time: 23 cycles).

The BUMP model of response planning: intermittent predictive control accounts for 10 Hz physiological tremor.

PubMed

Bye, Robin T; Neilson, Peter D

2010-10-01

Physiological tremor during movement is characterized by ∼10 Hz oscillation observed both in the electromyogram activity and in the velocity profile. We propose that this particular rhythm occurs as the direct consequence of a movement response planning system that acts as an intermittent predictive controller operating at discrete intervals of ∼100 ms. The BUMP model of response planning describes such a system. It forms the kernel of Adaptive Model Theory which defines, in computational terms, a basic unit of motor production or BUMP. Each BUMP consists of three processes: (1) analyzing sensory information, (2) planning a desired optimal response, and (3) execution of that response. These processes operate in parallel across successive sequential BUMPs. The response planning process requires a discrete-time interval in which to generate a minimum acceleration trajectory to connect the actual response with the predicted future state of the target and compensate for executional error. We have shown previously that a response planning time of 100 ms accounts for the intermittency observed experimentally in visual tracking studies and for the psychological refractory period observed in double stimulation reaction time studies. We have also shown that simulations of aimed movement, using this same planning interval, reproduce experimentally observed speed-accuracy tradeoffs and movement velocity profiles. Here we show, by means of a simulation study of constant velocity tracking movements, that employing a 100 ms planning interval closely reproduces the measurement discontinuities and power spectra of electromyograms, joint-angles, and angular velocities of physiological tremor reported experimentally. We conclude that intermittent predictive control through sequential operation of BUMPs is a fundamental mechanism of 10 Hz physiological tremor in movement. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Real options valuation and optimization of energy assets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thompson, Matthew

In this thesis we present algorithms for the valuation and optimal operation of natural gas storage facilities, hydro-electric power plants and thermal power generators in competitive markets. Real options theory is used to derive nonlinear partial-integro-differential equations (PIDEs) for the valuation and optimal operating strategies of all types of facilities. The equations are designed to incorporate a wide class of spot price models that can exhibit the same time-dependent, mean-reverting dynamics and price spikes as those observed in most energy markets. Particular attention is paid to the operational characteristics of real energy assets. For natural gas storage facilities these characteristics include: working gas capacities, variable deliverability and injection rates and cycling limitations. For thermal power plants relevant operational characteristics include variable start-up times and costs, control response time lags, minimum generating levels, nonlinear output functions, structural limitations on ramp rates, and minimum up/down time restrictions. For hydro-electric units, head effects and environmental constraints are addressed. We illustrate the models with numerical examples of a gas storage facility, a hydro-electric pump storage facility and a thermal power plant. This PIDE framework is the first in the literature to achieve second order accuracy in characterizing the operating states of hydro-electric and hydro-thermal power plants. The continuous state space representation derived in this thesis can therefore achieve far greater realism in terms of operating state specification than any other method in the literature to date. This thesis is also the first and only to allow for any continuous time jump diffusion processes in order to account for price spikes.

Internal and external generalizability of temporal dose-response relationships for xerostomia following IMRT for head and neck cancer

PubMed Central

Thor, Maria; Owosho, Adepitan A; Clark, Haley D; Oh, Jung Hun; Riaz, Nadeem; Hovan, Allan; Tsai, Jillian; Thomas, Steven D; Yom, Sae Hee K; Wu, Jonn S; Huryn, Joseph M; Moiseenko, Vitali; Lee, Nancy Y; Estilo, Cherry L; Deasy, Joseph O

2016-01-01

Background and Purpose To study internal and external generalizability of temporal dose-response relationships for xerostomia after intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for head and neck cancer, and to investigate potential amendments of the QUANTEC guidelines. Material and Methods Objective xerostomia was assessed in 121 patients (nCohort1=55; nCohort2=66) treated to 70Gy@2Gy in 2006–2015. Univariate and multivariate analyses (UVA, MVA with 1000 bootstrap populations) were conducted in Cohort1, and generalizability of the best-performing MVA model was investigated in Cohort2 (performance: AUC, p-values, and Hosmer-Lemeshow p-values (pHL)). Ultimately and for clinical guidance, minimum mean dose thresholds to the contralateral and the ipsilateral parotid glands (Dmeancontra, Dmeanipsi) were estimated from the generated dose-response curves. Results The observed xerostomia rate was 38%/47% (3 months) and 19%/23% (11–12 months) in Cohort1/Cohort2. Risk of xerostomia at 3 months increased for higher Dmeancontra and Dmeanipsi (Cohort1: 0.17•Dmeancontra+0.11•Dmeanipsi−8.13; AUC=0.90±0.05; p=0.0002±0.002; pHL=0.22±0.23; Cohort2: AUC=0.81; p<0.0001; pHL=0.27). The identified minimum Dmeancontra thresholds were lower than in the QUANTEC guidelines (Cohort1/Cohort2: Dmeancontra=12/19 Gy; Dmeancontra, Dmeanipsi=16, 25/20, 26 Gy). Conclusions Increased Dmeancontra and Dmeanipsi explain short-term xerostomia following IMRT. Our results also suggest decreasing Dmeancontra to below 20 Gy, while keeping Dmeanipsi to around 25 Gy. Long-term xerostomia was less frequent, and no dose-response relationship was established for this follow-up time. PMID:27890427

Internal and external generalizability of temporal dose-response relationships for xerostomia following IMRT for head and neck cancer.

PubMed

Thor, Maria; Owosho, Adepitan A; Clark, Haley D; Oh, Jung Hun; Riaz, Nadeem; Hovan, Allan; Tsai, Jillian; Thomas, Steven D; Yom, Sae Hee K; Wu, Jonn S; Huryn, Joseph M; Moiseenko, Vitali; Lee, Nancy Y; Estilo, Cherry L; Deasy, Joseph O

2017-02-01

To study internal and external generalizability of temporal dose-response relationships for xerostomia after intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) for head and neck cancer, and to investigate potential amendments of the QUANTEC guidelines. Objective xerostomia was assessed in 121 patients (n Cohort1 =55; n Cohort2 =66) treated to 70Gy@2Gy in 2006-2015. Univariate and multivariate analyses (UVA, MVA with 1000 bootstrap populations) were conducted in Cohort1, and generalizability of the best-performing MVA model was investigated in Cohort2 (performance: AUC, p-values, and Hosmer-Lemeshow p-values (p HL )). Ultimately and for clinical guidance, minimum mean dose thresholds to the contralateral and the ipsilateral parotid glands (Dmean contra , Dmean ipsi ) were estimated from the generated dose-response curves. The observed xerostomia rate was 38%/47% (3months) and 19%/23% (11-12months) in Cohort1/Cohort2. Risk of xerostomia at 3months increased for higher Dmean contra and Dmean ipsi (Cohort1: 0.17·Dmean contra +0.11·Dmean ipsi -8.13; AUC=0.90±0.05; p=0.0002±0.002; p HL =0.22±0.23; Cohort2: AUC=0.81; p<0.0001; p HL =0.27). The identified minimum Dmean contra thresholds were lower than in the QUANTEC guidelines (Cohort1/Cohort2: Dmean contra =12/19Gy; Dmean contra , Dmean ipsi =16, 25/20, 26Gy). Increased Dmean contra and Dmean ipsi explain short-term xerostomia following IMRT. Our results also suggest decreasing Dmean contra to below 20Gy, while keeping Dmean ipsi to around 25Gy. Long-term xerostomia was less frequent, and no dose-response relationship was established for this follow-up time. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Optimisation on processing parameters for minimising warpage on side arm using response surface methodology (RSM) and particle swarm optimisation (PSO)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rayhana, N.; Fathullah, M.; Shayfull, Z.; Nasir, S. M.; Hazwan, M. H. M.; Sazli, M.; Yahya, Z. R.

2017-09-01

This study presents the application of optimisation method to reduce the warpage of side arm part. Autodesk Moldflow Insight software was integrated into this study to analyse the warpage. The design of Experiment (DOE) for Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was constructed and by using the equation from RSM, Particle Swarm Optimisation (PSO) was applied. The optimisation method will result in optimised processing parameters with minimum warpage. Mould temperature, melt temperature, packing pressure, packing time and cooling time was selected as the variable parameters. Parameters selection was based on most significant factor affecting warpage stated by previous researchers. The results show that warpage was improved by 28.16% for RSM and 28.17% for PSO. The warpage improvement in PSO from RSM is only by 0.01 %. Thus, the optimisation using RSM is already efficient to give the best combination parameters and optimum warpage value for side arm part. The most significant parameters affecting warpage are packing pressure.

Maximum Kolmogorov-Sinai Entropy Versus Minimum Mixing Time in Markov Chains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mihelich, M.; Dubrulle, B.; Paillard, D.; Kral, Q.; Faranda, D.

2018-01-01

We establish a link between the maximization of Kolmogorov Sinai entropy (KSE) and the minimization of the mixing time for general Markov chains. Since the maximisation of KSE is analytical and easier to compute in general than mixing time, this link provides a new faster method to approximate the minimum mixing time dynamics. It could be interesting in computer sciences and statistical physics, for computations that use random walks on graphs that can be represented as Markov chains.

46 CFR 189.35-13 - Master's responsibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Master's responsibility. 189.35-13 Section 189.35-13... AND CERTIFICATION Weight Handling Gear § 189.35-13 Master's responsibility. (a) The master of the... permitted to operate the weight handling gear. The master shall designate the operators. (5) A minimum...

46 CFR 189.35-13 - Master's responsibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Master's responsibility. 189.35-13 Section 189.35-13... AND CERTIFICATION Weight Handling Gear § 189.35-13 Master's responsibility. (a) The master of the... permitted to operate the weight handling gear. The master shall designate the operators. (5) A minimum...

46 CFR 189.35-13 - Master's responsibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Master's responsibility. 189.35-13 Section 189.35-13... AND CERTIFICATION Weight Handling Gear § 189.35-13 Master's responsibility. (a) The master of the... permitted to operate the weight handling gear. The master shall designate the operators. (5) A minimum...

46 CFR 189.35-13 - Master's responsibility.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 7 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Master's responsibility. 189.35-13 Section 189.35-13... AND CERTIFICATION Weight Handling Gear § 189.35-13 Master's responsibility. (a) The master of the... permitted to operate the weight handling gear. The master shall designate the operators. (5) A minimum...

Fire behavior simulation in Mediterranean forests using the minimum travel time algorithm

Treesearch

Kostas Kalabokidis; Palaiologos Palaiologou; Mark A. Finney

2014-01-01

Recent large wildfires in Greece exemplify the need for pre-fire burn probability assessment and possible landscape fire flow estimation to enhance fire planning and resource allocation. The Minimum Travel Time (MTT) algorithm, incorporated as FlamMap's version five module, provide valuable fire behavior functions, while enabling multi-core utilization for the...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart III of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... determining compliance using this method Cadmium 0.004 milligrams per dry standard cubic meter 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 29 of appendix A of part 60). Carbon monoxide 157 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Eeee of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... determiningcompliance using this method 1. Cadmium 18 micrograms per dry standard cubic meter 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Method 29 of appendix A of this part. 2. Carbon monoxide 40 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run during performance test), and 12-hour...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart III of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... determining compliance using this method Cadmium 0.004 milligrams per dry standard cubic meter 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 29 of appendix A of part 60). Carbon monoxide 157 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Eeee of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... determiningcompliance using this method 1. Cadmium 18 micrograms per dry standard cubic meter 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Method 29 of appendix A of this part. 2. Carbon monoxide 40 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run during performance test), and 12-hour...

Optimal impulsive time-fixed orbital rendezvous and interception with path constraints

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taur, D.-R.; Prussing, J. E.; Coverstone-Carroll, V.

1990-01-01

Minimum-fuel, impulsive, time-fixed solutions are obtained for the problem of orbital rendezvous and interception with interior path constraints. Transfers between coplanar circular orbits in an inverse-square gravitational field are considered, subject to a circular path constraint representing a minimum or maximum permissible orbital radius. Primer vector theory is extended to incorporate path constraints. The optimal number of impulses, their times and positions, and the presence of initial or final coasting arcs are determined. The existence of constraint boundary arcs and boundary points is investigated as well as the optimality of a class of singular arc solutions. To illustrate the complexities introduced by path constraints, an analysis is made of optimal rendezvous in field-free space subject to a minimum radius constraint.

Controls for and constraints on auto-shaping

PubMed Central

Bilbrey, John; Winokur, Stephen

1973-01-01

Auto-shaping the pigeon's key-peck response was examined as a respondent conditioning procedure with the use of Rescorla's truly-random control procedure. In the first experiment, pigeons received presentations of brief light on the response key and brief presentations of food where the light and the food were independently presented. All birds failed to key peck after many light and food presentations, but explicit pairing of the light and food rapidly conditioned pecking to the light. Experiment 2 showed that even when an independent light/food presentation schedule was reduced to variable-time 30 sec, additional naive birds would not key peck and only one bird pecked when the schedules were variable-time 15 sec. A third experiment examined an explicit-unpairing control procedure, where the light and food were not only presented on independent schedules but were also separated by a minimum time, and found that auto-shaping did not occur. A fourth experiment investigated a number of control procedures and found them ineffective. A fifth experiment investigated the effects of a physical separation of the locus of the response key and the food dispenser, and a sixth experiment investigated using a tone in place of the light. It was concluded that pecking is generated by auto-shaping procedures only when an intermittently presented keylight is regularly paired with food. PMID:16811710

Implementation of optimal trajectory control of series resonant converter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oruganti, Ramesh; Yang, James J.; Lee, Fred C.

1987-01-01

Due to the presence of a high-frequency LC tank circuit, the dynamics of a resonant converter are unpredictable. There is often a large surge of tank energy during transients. Using state-plane analysis technique, an optimal trajectory control utilizing the desired solution trajectory as the control law was previously proposed for the series resonant converters. The method predicts the fastest response possible with minimum energy surge in the resonant tank. The principle of the control and its experimental implementation are described here. The dynamics of the converter are shown to be close to time-optimal.

Near-infrared diode laser based spectroscopic detection of ammonia: a comparative study of photoacoustic and direct optical absorption methods

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bozoki, Zoltan; Mohacsi, Arpad; Szabo, Gabor; Bor, Zsolt; Erdelyi, Miklos; Chen, Weidong; Tittel, Frank K.

2002-01-01

A photoacoustic spectroscopic (PAS) and a direct optical absorption spectroscopic (OAS) gas sensor, both using continuous-wave room-temperature diode lasers operating at 1531.8 nm, were compared on the basis of ammonia detection. Excellent linear correlation between the detector signals of the two systems was found. Although the physical properties and the mode of operation of both sensors were significantly different, their performances were found to be remarkably similar, with a sub-ppm level minimum detectable concentration of ammonia and a fast response time in the range of a few minutes.

[Measles are eliminated in Denmark].

PubMed

Lauridsen, Julie Aaberg; Krause, Tyra Grove; Andersen, Peter Henrik

2018-03-19

Measles vaccination has led to a significant fall in the number of measles cases and measles-related deaths worldwide. However, many countries still struggle to eliminate the disease. To obtain elimination, a minimum of 95% vaccination coverage for both of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines is necessary as well as an efficient surveillance system and timely public health response. Presenting data on reported cases and vaccination coverage in the latest 20 years, this article describes how measles are eliminated in Denmark and recommends, how the Danish measles surveillance system can be further improved to maintain the status.

The Dyad-Adaptive Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (DA-PASAT): Normative data and the effects of repeated testing, simulated malingering, and traumatic brain injury

PubMed Central

Wyma, John M.; Herron, Timothy J.; Yund, E. William; Reed, Bruce

2018-01-01

The Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) is widely used to evaluate processing speed and executive function in patients with multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, and other neurological disorders. In the PASAT, subjects listen to sequences of digits while continuously reporting the sum of the last two digits presented. Four different stimulus onset asynchronies (SOAs) are usually tested, with difficulty increasing as SOAs are reduced. Ceiling effects are common at long SOAs, while the digit delivery rate often exceeds the subject’s processing capacity at short SOAs, causing some subjects to stop performing altogether. In addition, subjects may adopt an “alternate answer” strategy at short SOAs, which reduces the test’s demands on working-memory and processing speed. Consequently, studies have shown that the number of dyads (consecutive correct answers) is a more sensitive measure of PASAT performance than the overall number of correct sums. Here, we describe a 2.5-minute computerized test, the Dyad-Adaptive PASAT (DA-PASAT), where SOAs are adjusted with a 2:1 staircase, decreasing after each pair of correct responses and increasing after misses. Processing capacity is reflected in the minimum SOA (minSOA) achieved in 54 trials. Experiment 1 gathered normative data in two large populations: 1617 subjects in New Zealand ranging in age from 18 to 65 years, and 214 Californians ranging in age from 18 to 82 years. Minimum SOAs were influenced by age, education, and daily hours of computer-use. Minimum SOA z-scores, calculated after factoring out the influence of these factors, were virtually identical in the two control groups, as were response times (RTs) and dyad ratios (the proportion of hits occurring in dyads). Experiment 2 measured the test-retest reliability of the DA-PASAT in 44 young subjects who underwent three test sessions at weekly intervals. High intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were found for minSOAs (0.87), response times (0.76), and dyad ratios (0.87). Performance improved across test sessions for all measures. Experiment 3 investigated the effects of simulated malingering in 50 subjects: 42% of simulated malingerers produced abnormal (p< 0.05) minSOA z-scores. Simulated malingerers with abnormal scores were distinguished with 87% sensitivity and 69% specificity from control subjects with abnormal scores by excessive differences between training performance and the actual test. Experiment 4 investigated patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI): patients with mild TBI performed within the normal range while patients with severe TBI showed deficits. The DA-PASAT reduces the time and stress of PASAT assessment while gathering sensitive measures of dyad processing that reveal the effects of aging, malingering, and traumatic brain injury on performance. PMID:29677192

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

Xu, H; Guerrero, M; Prado, K

Purpose: Building up a TG-71 based electron monitor-unit (MU) calculation protocol usually involves massive measurements. This work investigates a minimum data set of measurements and its calculation accuracy and measurement time. Methods: For 6, 9, 12, 16, and 20 MeV of our Varian Clinac-Series linear accelerators, the complete measurements were performed at different depth using 5 square applicators (6, 10, 15, 20 and 25 cm) with different cutouts (2, 3, 4, 6, 10, 15 and 20 cm up to applicator size) for 5 different SSD’s. For each energy, there were 8 PDD scans and 150 point measurements for applicator factors,more » cutout factors and effective SSDs that were then converted to air-gap factors for SSD 99–110cm. The dependence of each dosimetric quantity on field size and SSD was examined to determine the minimum data set of measurements as a subset of the complete measurements. The “missing” data excluded in the minimum data set were approximated by linear or polynomial fitting functions based on the included data. The total measurement time and the calculated electron MU using the minimum and the complete data sets were compared. Results: The minimum data set includes 4 or 5 PDD’s and 51 to 66 point measurements for each electron energy, and more PDD’s and fewer point measurements are generally needed as energy increases. Using only <50% of complete measurement time, the minimum data set generates acceptable MU calculation results compared to those with the complete data set. The PDD difference is within 1 mm and the calculated MU difference is less than 1.5%. Conclusion: Data set measurement for TG-71 electron MU calculations can be minimized based on the knowledge of how each dosimetric quantity depends on various setup parameters. The suggested minimum data set allows acceptable MU calculation accuracy and shortens measurement time by a few hours.« less

An eigensystem realization algorithm using data correlations (ERA/DC) for modal parameter identification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Juang, Jer-Nan; Cooper, J. E.; Wright, J. R.

1987-01-01

A modification to the Eigensystem Realization Algorithm (ERA) for modal parameter identification is presented in this paper. The ERA minimum order realization approach using singular value decomposition is combined with the philosophy of the Correlation Fit method in state space form such that response data correlations rather than actual response values are used for modal parameter identification. This new method, the ERA using data correlations (ERA/DC), reduces bias errors due to noise corruption significantly without the need for model overspecification. This method is tested using simulated five-degree-of-freedom system responses corrupted by measurement noise. It is found for this case that, when model overspecification is permitted and a minimum order solution obtained via singular value truncation, the results from the two methods are of similar quality.

29 CFR 780.620 - Minimum wage for livestock auction work.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... minimum rate required by section 6(a)(1) of the Act for the time spent in livestock auction work. The exemption does not apply unless there is payment for all hours spent in livestock auction work at not less... 29 Labor 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Minimum wage for livestock auction work. 780.620 Section...

The Age 21 Minimum Legal Drinking Age Law. Prevention Update

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Higher Education Center for Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Violence Prevention, 2011

2011-01-01

Currently, all 50 states limit alcohol purchases to people aged 21 and over. But that hasn't always been the case. In fact, it was July 17, 1984, when President Ronald Reagan signed the national 21 minimum legal drinking age (MLDA) legislation into law. At that time, only 23 states had minimum alcohol purchasing ages of 21 years old. The…

Scaling-up the minimum requirements analysis for big wilderness issues

Treesearch

David N. Cole

2007-01-01

The concept of applying a "minimum requirements" analysis to decisions about administrative actions in wilderness in the United States has been around for a long time. It comes from Section 4(c) of the Wilderness Act of 1964, which states that "except as necessary to meet minimum requirements for the administration of the area for the purposes of this...

RESPONSIVENESS OF THE ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING SCALE OF THE KNEE OUTCOME SURVEY AND NUMERIC PAIN RATING SCALE IN PATIENTS WITH PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN

PubMed Central

Piva, Sara R.; Gil, Alexandra B.; Moore, Charity G.; Fitzgerald, G. Kelley

2016-01-01

Objective To assess internal and external responsiveness of the Activity of Daily Living Scale of the Knee Outcome Survey and Numeric Pain Rating Scale on patients with patellofemoral pain. Design One group pre-post design. Subjects A total of 60 individuals with patellofemoral pain (33 women; mean age 29.9 (standard deviation 9.6) years). Methods The Activity of Daily Living Scale and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale were assessed before and after 8 weeks of physical therapy program. Patients completed a global rating of change scale at the end of therapy. The standardized effect size, Guyatt responsiveness index, and the minimum clinical important difference were calculated. Results Standardized effect size of the Activity of Daily Living Scale was 0.63, Guyatt responsiveness index was 1.4, area under the curve was 0.83 (95% confidence interval: 0.72, 0.94), and the minimum clinical important difference corresponded to an increase of 7.1 percentile points. Standardized effect size of the Numeric Pain Rating Scale was 0.72, Guyatt responsiveness index was 2.2, area under the curve was 0.80 (95% confidence interval: 0.70, 0.92), and the minimum clinical important difference corresponded to a decrease of 1.16 points. Conclusion Information from this study may be helpful to therapists when evaluating the effectiveness of rehabilitation intervention on physical function and pain, and to power future clinical trials on patients with patellofemoral pain. PMID:19229444

Responsiveness of the activities of daily living scale of the knee outcome survey and numeric pain rating scale in patients with patellofemoral pain.

PubMed

Piva, Sara R; Gil, Alexandra B; Moore, Charity G; Fitzgerald, G Kelley

2009-02-01

To assess internal and external responsiveness of the Activity of Daily Living Scale of the Knee Outcome Survey and Numeric Pain Rating Scale on patients with patellofemoral pain. One group pre-post design. A total of 60 individuals with patellofemoral pain (33 women; mean age 29.9 (standard deviation 9.6) years). The Activity of Daily Living Scale and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale were assessed before and after 8 weeks of physical therapy program. Patients completed a global rating of change scale at the end of therapy. The standardized effect size, Guyatt responsiveness index, and the minimum clinical important difference were calculated. Standardized effect size of the Activity of Daily Living Scale was 0.63, Guyatt responsiveness index was 1.4, area under the curve was 0.83 (95% confidence interval: 0.72, 0.94), and the minimum clinical important difference corresponded to an increase of 7.1 percentile points. Standardized effect size of the Numeric Pain Rating Scale was 0.72, Guyatt responsiveness index was 2.2, area under the curve was 0.80 (95% confidence interval: 0.70, 0.92), and the minimum clinical important difference corresponded to a decrease of 1.16 points. Information from this study may be helpful to therapists when evaluating the effectiveness of rehabilitation intervention on physical function and pain, and to power future clinical trials on patients with patellofemoral pain.

Optimal heliocentric trajectories for solar sail with minimum area

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Petukhov, Vyacheslav G.

2018-05-01

The fixed-time heliocentric trajectory optimization problem is considered for planar solar sail with minimum area. Necessary optimality conditions are derived, a numerical method for solving the problem is developed, and numerical examples of optimal trajectories to Mars, Venus and Mercury are presented. The dependences of the minimum area of the solar sail from the date of departure from the Earth, the time of flight and the departing hyperbolic excess of velocity are analyzed. In particular, for the rendezvous problem (approaching a target planet with zero relative velocity) with zero departing hyperbolic excess of velocity for a flight duration of 1200 days it was found that the minimum area-to-mass ratio should be about 12 m2/kg for trajectory to Venus, 23.5 m2/kg for the trajectory to Mercury and 25 m2/kg for trajectory to Mars.

Time-to-space mapping of a continuous light wave with picosecond time resolution based on an electrooptic beam deflection.

PubMed

Hisatake, S; Kobayashi, T

2006-12-25

We demonstrate a time-to-space mapping of an optical signal with a picosecond time resolution based on an electrooptic beam deflection. A time axis of the optical signal is mapped into a spatial replica by the deflection. We theoretically derive a minimum time resolution of the time-to-space mapping and confirm it experimentally on the basis of the pulse width of the optical pulses picked out from the deflected beam through a narrow slit which acts as a temporal window. We have achieved the minimum time resolution of 1.6+/-0.2 ps.

A model for estimating pathogen variability in shellfish and predicting minimum depuration times.

PubMed

McMenemy, Paul; Kleczkowski, Adam; Lees, David N; Lowther, James; Taylor, Nick

2018-01-01

Norovirus is a major cause of viral gastroenteritis, with shellfish consumption being identified as one potential norovirus entry point into the human population. Minimising shellfish norovirus levels is therefore important for both the consumer's protection and the shellfish industry's reputation. One method used to reduce microbiological risks in shellfish is depuration; however, this process also presents additional costs to industry. Providing a mechanism to estimate norovirus levels during depuration would therefore be useful to stakeholders. This paper presents a mathematical model of the depuration process and its impact on norovirus levels found in shellfish. Two fundamental stages of norovirus depuration are considered: (i) the initial distribution of norovirus loads within a shellfish population and (ii) the way in which the initial norovirus loads evolve during depuration. Realistic assumptions are made about the dynamics of norovirus during depuration, and mathematical descriptions of both stages are derived and combined into a single model. Parameters to describe the depuration effect and norovirus load values are derived from existing norovirus data obtained from U.K. harvest sites. However, obtaining population estimates of norovirus variability is time-consuming and expensive; this model addresses the issue by assuming a 'worst case scenario' for variability of pathogens, which is independent of mean pathogen levels. The model is then used to predict minimum depuration times required to achieve norovirus levels which fall within possible risk management levels, as well as predictions of minimum depuration times for other water-borne pathogens found in shellfish. Times for Escherichia coli predicted by the model all fall within the minimum 42 hours required for class B harvest sites, whereas minimum depuration times for norovirus and FRNA+ bacteriophage are substantially longer. Thus this study provides relevant information and tools to assist norovirus risk managers with future control strategies.

Using Global Total Electron Content to Understand Interminimum Changes in Solar EUV Irradiance and Thermospheric Composition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McDonald, S. E.; Emmert, J. T.; Krall, J.; Mannucci, A. J.; Vergados, P.

2017-12-01

To understand how and why the distribution of geospace plasma in the ionosphere/plasmasphere is evolving over multi-decadal time scales in response to solar, heliospheric and atmospheric forcing, it is critically important to have long-term, stable datasets. In this study, we use a newly constructed dataset of GPS-based total electron content (TEC) developed by JPL. The JPL Global Ionosphere Mapping (GIM) algorithm was used to generate a 35-station dataset spanning two solar minimum periods (1993-2014). We also use altimeter-derived TEC measurements from TOPEX-Poseidon and Jason-1 to construct a continuous dataset for the 1995-2014 time period. Both longterm datasets are compared to each other to study interminimum changes in the global TEC (during 1995-1995 and 2008-2009). We use the SAMI3 physics-based model of the ionosphere to compare the simulations of 1995-2014 with the JPL TEC and TOPEX/Jason-1 datasets. To drive SAMI3, we use the Naval Research Laboratory Solar Spectral Irradiance (NRLSSI) model to specify the EUV irradiances, and NRLMSIS to specify the thermosphere. We adjust the EUV irradiances and thermospheric constituents to match the TEC datasets and draw conclusions regarding sources of the differences between the two solar minimum periods.

Antifungal Activity of Essential Oils against Candida albicans Strains Isolated from Users of Dental Prostheses

PubMed Central

Júnior, José Klidenberg de Oliveira; Silva, Daniele de Figueredo; de Sousa, Janiere Pereira; Guerra, Felipe Queiroga Sarmento; de Oliveira Lima, Edeltrudes

2017-01-01

Objective The objective of this study was to analyze the antifungal activity of citral, selected by screening natural products, against Candida albicans isolates from subjects who use dental prostheses. Methodology Screening of essential oils, including those from Mentha piperita L. (Briq), Origanum vulgare, and Zingiber officinale L., and the phytoconstituents citral and limonene, to select an appropriate natural product. Citral, which mediated the best antifungal response, was selected for biological assays. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) and minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFCs) for citral and nystatin were determined by the microdilution method. Micromorphological analyses, time-kill curve, and modulation tests were performed. Results The MIC and MFC of citral were established as 32 μg/mL, consistent with fungicidal activity. The clinical strains were resistant to nystatin. Citral caused micromorphological alteration in the strains. In the time-kill curve, the growth of the clinical strain was reduction in growth equal to 3 log10 colony-forming units per milliliter after exposure to the MIC and MIC × 2 of citral for 2 h. Citral did not modulate the resistance of the studied strains to nystatin. Conclusion This study revealed the potential of citral as a fungicidal agent and highlighted the resistance of clinical strains of C. albicans to nystatin. PMID:29234423

Model study of the effects of gravity wave dissipation on the thermosphere and ionosphere from deep convection worldwide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vadas, Sharon; Liu, Hanli

In this paper, we discuss the methods and results of a global modeling study for the effect of deep convection on the thermosphere and ionosphere through the dissipation of atmospheric gravity waves (GWs). The selected time periods are 15-27 June 2009, during the recent extreme solar minimum, and 15-27 June 2000, during the recent solar maximum. The convective plumes which overshot the tropopause are identified from IR images obtained by 5 satellites covering the Earth during each period. We model the excitation of GWs from these plumes, and ray trace them into the thermosphere using our ray trace model which has been upgraded to span the Earth. We then calculate the forcings/heatings/coolings which result when and where these GWs dissipate in the thermosphere. We input these forcings/heatings/coolings into the global TIME-GCM, and re-run the model. In this paper, we discuss these methods and models in detail. We then discuss how the thermosphere and ionosphere responded to the dissipation of these convectively-generated GWs worldwide. We show that the responses propagate westward due to wind filtering by tides in the lower thermosphere. We also show that the neutral temperature and wind perturbations are larger during extreme solar minimum than during solar maximum.

Solar-cycle Variations of Meridional Flows in the Solar Convection Zone Using Helioseismic Methods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Chia-Hsien; Chou, Dean-Yi

2018-06-01

The solar meridional flow is an axisymmetric flow in solar meridional planes, extending through the convection zone. Here we study its solar-cycle variations in the convection zone using SOHO/MDI helioseismic data from 1996 to 2010, including two solar minima and one maximum. The travel-time difference between northward and southward acoustic waves is related to the meridional flow along the wave path. Applying the ray approximation and the SOLA inversion method to the travel-time difference measured in a previous study, we obtain the meridional flow distributions in 0.67 ≤ r ≤ 0.96R ⊙ at the minimum and maximum. At the minimum, the flow has a three-layer structure: poleward in the upper convection zone, equatorward in the middle convection zone, and poleward again in the lower convection zone. The flow speed is close to zero within the error bar near the base of the convection zone. The flow distribution changes significantly from the minimum to the maximum. The change above 0.9R ⊙ shows two phenomena: first, the poleward flow speed is reduced at the maximum; second, an additional convergent flow centered at the active latitudes is generated at the maximum. These two phenomena are consistent with the surface meridional flow reported in previous studies. The change in flow extends all the way down to the base of the convection zone, and the pattern of the change below 0.9R ⊙ is more complicated. However, it is clear that the active latitudes play a role in the flow change: the changes in flow speed below and above the active latitudes have opposite signs. This suggests that magnetic fields could be responsible for the flow change.

Evidence that one is more likely to see the aurora near Moscow than near Ann Arbor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liemohn, Michael; Immel, Thomas; Katus, Roxanne

We present a superposed epoch analysis of solar wind drivers and geomagnetic index responses during magnetic storms, categorized as a function of universal time (UT) of the storm peak, to investigate the dependency of storm intensity on UT. Storms with Dst minimum less than - 100 nT were identified in the 1970 - 2012 era (totaling 310 events), covering four solar cycles. The storms were classified into 6 groups based on the UT of the minimum Dst (36 to 82 events per bin), then each grouping was superposed on a timeline that aligns the time of the minimum Dst. Fifteen different quantities were considered, seven solar wind parameters and eight activity indices derived from ground-based magnetometers. Statistical analyses of the superposed means against each other (between the different UT groupings) were conducted to determine the mathematical significance of similarities and differences in the time series plots. It was found that most of the solar wind parameters have essentially no significant difference between the UT groupings, as expected. The exception is solar wind velocity, which appears to be bifurcated into two levels with three of the UT groupings systematically faster than the other three (although, interestingly, not three consecutive UT bins). The geomagnetic activity indices, however, all show statistically significant differences with UT during the main phase and/or early recovery phase. Specifically, the 16, 20, and 00 UT groupings are stronger storms than those in the other UT bins. That is, storms are stronger when the Asian sector is on the nightside (American sector on the dayside) during the main phase. An inference from these findings, therefore, is that one is more likely to see the aurora near Moscow in Russia than near Ann Arbor, Michigan in the United States, even though these two cities have very similar magnetic latitudes (52 degrees).

Methods, metrics and research gaps around minimum data sets for nursing practice and fundamental care: A scoping literature review.

PubMed

Muntlin Athlin, Åsa

2018-06-01

To examine and map research on minimum data sets linked to nursing practice and the fundamentals of care. Another aim was to identify gaps in the evidence to suggest future research questions to highlight the need for standardisation of terminology around nursing practice and fundamental care. Addressing fundamental care has been highlighted internationally as a response to missed nursing care. Systematic performance measurements are needed to capture nursing practice outcomes. Overview of the literature framed by the scoping study methodology. PubMed and CINAHL were searched using the following inclusion criteria: peer-reviewed empirical quantitative and qualitative studies related to minimum data sets and nursing practice published in English. No time restrictions were set. Exclusion criteria were as follows: no available full text, reviews and methodological and discursive studies. Data were categorised into one of the fundamentals of care elements. The review included 20 studies published in 1999-2016. Settings were mainly nursing homes or hospitals. Of 14 elements of the fundamentals of care, 11 were identified as measures in the included studies, but their frequency varied. The most commonly identified elements concerned safety, prevention and medication (n = 11), comfort (n = 6) and eating and drinking (n = 5). Studies have used minimum data sets and included variables linked to nursing practices and fundamentals of care. However, the relations of these variables to nursing practice were not always clearly described and the main purpose of the studies was seldom to measure the outcomes of nursing interventions. More robust studies focusing on nursing practice and patient outcomes are warranted. Using minimum data sets can highlight the nurses' work and what impact it has on direct patient care. Appropriate models, systems and standardised terminology are needed to facilitate the documentation of nursing activities. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Intravenous lipid emulsion alters the hemodynamic response to epinephrine in a rat model.

PubMed

Carreiro, Stephanie; Blum, Jared; Jay, Gregory; Hack, Jason B

2013-09-01

Intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) is an adjunctive antidote used in selected critically ill poisoned patients. These patients may also require administration of advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) drugs. Limited data is available to describe interactions of ILE with standard ACLS drugs, specifically epinephrine. Twenty rats with intra-arterial and intravenous access were sedated with isoflurane and split into ILE or normal saline (NS) pretreatment groups. All received epinephrine 15 μm/kg intravenously (IV). Continuous mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were monitored until both indices returned to baseline. Standardized t tests were used to compare peak MAP, time to peak MAP, maximum change in HR, time to maximum change in HR, and time to return to baseline MAP/HR. There was a significant difference (p = 0.023) in time to peak MAP in the ILE group (54 s, 95 % CI 44-64) versus the NS group (40 s, 95 % CI 32-48) and a significant difference (p = 0.004) in time to return to baseline MAP in ILE group (171 s, 95 % CI 148-194) versus NS group (130 s, 95 % CI 113-147). There were no significant differences in the peak change in MAP, peak change in HR, time to minimum HR, or time to return to baseline HR between groups. ILE-pretreated rats had a significant difference in MAP response to epinephrine; ILE delayed the peak effect and prolonged the duration of effect of epinephrine on MAP, but did not alter the peak increase in MAP or the HR response.

Modeling and control for a magnetic levitation system based on SIMLAB platform in real time

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yaseen, Mundher H. A.; Abd, Haider J.

2018-03-01

Magnetic Levitation system becomes a hot topic of study due to the minimum friction and low energy consumption which regards as very important issues. This paper proposed a new magnetic levitation system using real-time control simulink feature of (SIMLAB) microcontroller. The control system of the maglev transportation system is verified by simulations with experimental results, and its superiority is indicated in comparison with previous literature and conventional control strategies. In addition, the proposed system was implemented under effect of three controller types which are Linear-quadratic regulator (LQR), proportional-integral-derivative controller (PID) and Lead compensation. As well, the controller system performance was compared in term of three parameters Peak overshoot, Settling time and Rise time. The findings prove the agreement of simulation with experimental results obtained. Moreover, the LQR controller produced a great stability and homogeneous response than other controllers used. For experimental results, the LQR brought a 14.6%, 0.199 and 0.064 for peak overshoot, Setting time and Rise time respectively.

An Empirical Model of Radiation Belt Electron Pitch Angle Distributions Based On Van Allen Probes Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, H.; Friedel, R. H. W.; Chen, Y.; Reeves, G. D.; Baker, D. N.; Li, X.; Jaynes, A. N.; Kanekal, S. G.; Claudepierre, S. G.; Fennell, J. F.; Blake, J. B.; Spence, H. E.

2018-05-01

Based on over 4 years of Van Allen Probes measurements, an empirical model of radiation belt electron equatorial pitch angle distribution (PAD) is constructed. The model, developed by fitting electron PADs with Legendre polynomials, provides the statistical PADs as a function of L-shell (L = 1-6), magnetic local time, electron energy ( 30 keV to 5.2 MeV), and geomagnetic activity (represented by the Dst index) and is also the first empirical PAD model in the inner belt and slot region. For megaelectron volt electrons, model results show more significant day-night PAD asymmetry of electrons with higher energies and during disturbed times, which is caused by geomagnetic field configuration and flux radial gradient changes. Steeper PADs with higher fluxes around 90° pitch angle and lower fluxes at lower pitch angles for higher-energy electrons and during active times are also present, which could be due to electromagnetic ion cyclotron wave scattering. For hundreds of kiloelectron volt electrons, cap PADs are generally present in the slot region during quiet times and their energy-dependent features are consistent with hiss wave scattering, while during active times, cap PADs are less significant especially at outer part of slot region, which could be due to the complex energizing and transport processes. The 90°-minimum PADs are persistently present in the inner belt and appear in the slot region during active times, and minima at 90° pitch angle are more significant for electrons with higher energies, which could be a critical evidence in identifying the underlying physical processes responsible for the formation of 90°-minimum PADs.

One-year delayed effect of fog on malaria transmission: a time-series analysis in the rain forest area of Mengla County, south-west China

PubMed Central

Tian, Linwei; Bi, Yan; Ho, Suzanne C; Liu, Wenjie; Liang, Song; Goggins, William B; Chan, Emily YY; Zhou, Shuisen; Sung, Joseph JY

2008-01-01

Background Malaria is a major public health burden in the tropics with the potential to significantly increase in response to climate change. Analyses of data from the recent past can elucidate how short-term variations in weather factors affect malaria transmission. This study explored the impact of climate variability on the transmission of malaria in the tropical rain forest area of Mengla County, south-west China. Methods Ecological time-series analysis was performed on data collected between 1971 and 1999. Auto-regressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models were used to evaluate the relationship between weather factors and malaria incidence. Results At the time scale of months, the predictors for malaria incidence included: minimum temperature, maximum temperature, and fog day frequency. The effect of minimum temperature on malaria incidence was greater in the cool months than in the hot months. The fog day frequency in October had a positive effect on malaria incidence in May of the following year. At the time scale of years, the annual fog day frequency was the only weather predictor of the annual incidence of malaria. Conclusion Fog day frequency was for the first time found to be a predictor of malaria incidence in a rain forest area. The one-year delayed effect of fog on malaria transmission may involve providing water input and maintaining aquatic breeding sites for mosquitoes in vulnerable times when there is little rainfall in the 6-month dry seasons. These findings should be considered in the prediction of future patterns of malaria for similar tropical rain forest areas worldwide. PMID:18565224

Comparing effects of fire modeling methods on simulated fire patterns and succession: a case study in the Missouri Ozarks

Treesearch

Jian Yang; Hong S. He; Brian R. Sturtevant; Brian R. Miranda; Eric J. Gustafson

2008-01-01

We compared four fire spread simulation methods (completely random, dynamic percolation. size-based minimum travel time algorithm. and duration-based minimum travel time algorithm) and two fire occurrence simulation methods (Poisson fire frequency model and hierarchical fire frequency model) using a two-way factorial design. We examined these treatment effects on...

40 CFR Table 2 to Subpart Ffff of... - Model Rule-Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... micrograms per dry standard cubic meter 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Method 29 of appendix A of this part. 2. Carbon monoxide 40 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run during performance test), and 12-hour rolling averages measured using CEMS b...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Cccc of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... per dry standard cubic meter 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 29 of appendix A of this part). Carbon monoxide 157 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 10, 10A, or 10B of appendix A of this...

40 CFR Table 2 to Subpart Ffff of... - Model Rule-Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... micrograms per dry standard cubic meter 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Method 29 of appendix A of this part. 2. Carbon monoxide 40 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run during performance test), and 12-hour rolling averages measured using CEMS b...

40 CFR Table 1 to Subpart Cccc of... - Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... per dry standard cubic meter 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 29 of appendix A of this part). Carbon monoxide 157 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 10, 10A, or 10B of appendix A of this...

40 CFR Table 2 to Subpart Dddd of... - Model Rule-Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... meter 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 29 of appendix A of this part) Carbon monoxide 157 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run) Performance test (Method 10, 10A, or 10B, of appendix A of this part) Dioxins/furans...

40 CFR Table 2 to Subpart Dddd of... - Model Rule-Emission Limitations

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... part) Hydrogen chloride 62 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time...) Sulfur dioxide 20 parts per million by dry volume 3-run average (1 hour minimum sample time per run...-8) or ASTM D6784-02 (Reapproved 2008).c Opacity 10 percent Three 1-hour blocks consisting of ten 6...

Implications of Responsive Space on the Flight Software Architecture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilmot, Jonathan

2006-01-01

The Responsive Space initiative has several implications for flight software that need to be addressed not only within the run-time element, but the development infrastructure and software life-cycle process elements as well. The runtime element must at a minimum support Plug & Play, while the development and process elements need to incorporate methods to quickly generate the needed documentation, code, tests, and all of the artifacts required of flight quality software. Very rapid response times go even further, and imply little or no new software development, requiring instead, using only predeveloped and certified software modules that can be integrated and tested through automated methods. These elements have typically been addressed individually with significant benefits, but it is when they are combined that they can have the greatest impact to Responsive Space. The Flight Software Branch at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center has been developing the runtime, infrastructure and process elements needed for rapid integration with the Core Flight software System (CFS) architecture. The CFS architecture consists of three main components; the core Flight Executive (cFE), the component catalog, and the Integrated Development Environment (DE). This paper will discuss the design of the components, how they facilitate rapid integration, and lessons learned as the architecture is utilized for an upcoming spacecraft.

BK Virus-Hemorrhagic Cystitis Following Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation: Clinical Characteristics and Utility of Leflunomide Treatment

PubMed Central

Park, Young Hoon; Lim, Joo Han; Yi, Hyeon Gyu; Lee, Moon Hee; Kim, Chul Soo

2016-01-01

Objective: BK virus-hemorrhagic cystitis (BKV-HC) is a potential cause of morbidity and mortality in patients having undergone allogeneic stem cell transplantation (Allo-SCT). We analyzed the clinical features of BKV-HC following Allo-SCT and reported the utility of leflunomide therapy for BKV-HC. Materials and Methods: From January 2005 to June 2014, among the 69 patients that underwent Allo-SCT in our institution, the patients who experienced BKV-HC were investigated retrospectively. Results: HC was observed in 30 patients (43.5%), and among them, 18 of the cases (26.1%) were identified as BKV-HC. The median age of the patients (12 males and 6 females) was 45 years (minimum-maximum: 13-63). Patients received Allo-SCT for acute myeloid leukemia (n=11), aplastic anemia (n=4), myelodysplastic syndrome (n=2), and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (n=1). The donor types were human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-matched sibling donor for six patients, HLA-matched unrelated donor for nine, and haploidentical familial donor for two. The median onset and duration of BKV-HC was on day 21 after transplantation (minimum-maximum: 7-97) and 22 days (minimum-maximum: 6-107). Eleven patients (62.1%) had grade I-II HC and seven patients (38.9%) had grade III-IV (high-grade) HC. Among the seven patients who had high-grade HC, one had complete response, one had partial response, and five had no response. Among the five nonresponders, one died of BKV-HC associated complications. The remaining four patients were treated with leflunomide, achieving complete response (n=2) and partial response (n=2). The median duration from the start of leflunomide therapy to response was 13 days (minimum-maximum: 8-17 days). All patients tolerated the leflunomide treatment well, with three patients having mild gastrointestinal symptoms, including anorexia and abdominal bloating. Conclusion: BKV-HC was commonly observed in patients with HC following Allo-SCT. In high-grade BKV-HC patients who do not respond to supportive care, leflunomide may be a feasible option without significant toxicity. PMID:27094950

Recovery cycle times of inferior colliculus neurons in the awake bat measured with spike counts and latencies

PubMed Central

Sayegh, Riziq; Aubie, Brandon; Fazel-Pour, Siavosh; Faure, Paul A.

2012-01-01

Neural responses in the mammalian auditory midbrain (inferior colliculus; IC) arise from complex interactions of synaptic excitation, inhibition, and intrinsic properties of the cell. Temporally selective duration-tuned neurons (DTNs) in the IC are hypothesized to arise through the convergence of excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs offset in time. Synaptic inhibition can be inferred from extracellular recordings by presenting pairs of pulses (paired tone stimulation) and comparing the evoked responses of the cell to each pulse. We obtained single unit recordings from the IC of the awake big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus) and used paired tone stimulation to measure the recovery cycle times of DTNs and non-temporally selective auditory neurons. By systematically varying the interpulse interval (IPI) of the paired tone stimulus, we determined the minimum IPI required for a neuron's spike count or its spike latency (first- or last-spike latency) in response to the second tone to recover to within ≥50% of the cell's baseline count or to within 1 SD of it's baseline latency in response to the first tone. Recovery times of shortpass DTNs were significantly shorter than those of bandpass DTNs, and recovery times of bandpass DTNs were longer than allpass neurons not selective for stimulus duration. Recovery times measured with spike counts were positively correlated with those measured with spike latencies. Recovery times were also correlated with first-spike latency (FSL). These findings, combined with previous studies on duration tuning in the IC, suggest that persistent inhibition is a defining characteristic of DTNs. Herein, we discuss measuring recovery times of neurons with spike counts and latencies. We also highlight how persistent inhibition could determine neural recovery times and serve as a potential mechanism underlying the precedence effect in humans. Finally, we explore implications of recovery times for DTNs in the context of bat hearing and echolocation. PMID:22933992

Coral colonisation of a shallow reef flat in response to rising sea level: quantification from 35 years of remote sensing data at Heron Island, Australia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Scopélitis, J.; Andréfouët, S.; Phinn, S.; Done, T.; Chabanet, P.

2011-12-01

Observations made on Heron Island reef flat during the 1970s-1990s highlighted the importance of rapid change in hydrodynamics and accommodation space for coral development. Between the 1940s and the 1990s, the minimum reef-flat top water level varied by some tens of centimetres, successively down then up, in rapid response to local engineering works. Coral growth followed sea-level variations and was quantified here for several coral communities using horizontal two-dimensional above water remotely sensed observations. This required seven high spatial resolution aerial photographs and Quickbird satellite images spanning 35 years: 1972, 1979, 1990, 1992, 2002, 2006 and 2007. The coral growth dynamics followed four regimes corresponding to artificially induced changes in sea levels: 1972-1979 (lowest growth rate): no detectable coral development, due to high tidal currents and minimum mean low-tide water level; 1979-1991 (higher growth rate): horizontal coral development promoted by calmer hydrodynamic conditions; 1991-2001(lower growth rate): vertical coral development, induced by increased local sea level by ~12 cm due to construction of new bund walls; 2001-2007 (highest growth rate): horizontal coral development after that vertical growth had become limited by sea level. This unique time-series displays a succession of ecological stage comprising a `catch-up' dynamic in response to a rapid local sea-level rise in spite of the occurrences of the most severe bleaching events on record (1998, 2002) and the decreasing calcification rates reported in massive corals in the northern part of the Great Barrier Reef.

Determining the minimum ripening time of artisanal Minas cheese, a traditional Brazilian cheese

PubMed Central

Martins, José M.; Galinari, Éder; Pimentel-Filho, Natan J.; Ribeiro, José I.; Furtado, Mauro M.; Ferreira, Célia L.L.F.

2015-01-01

Physical, physicochemical, and microbiological changes were monitored in 256 samples of artisanal Minas cheese from eight producers from Serro region (Minas Gerais, Brazil) for 64 days of ripening to determine the minimum ripening time for the cheese to reach the safe microbiological limits established by Brazilian legislation. The cheeses were produced between dry season (April–September) and rainy season (October–March); 128 cheeses were ripened at room temperature (25 ± 4 °C), and 128 were ripened under refrigeration (8 ± 1 °C), as a control. No Listeria monocytogenes was found, but one cheese under refrigeration had Salmonella at first 15 days of ripening. However, after 22 days, the pathogen was not detected. Seventeen days was the minimum ripening time at room temperature to reduce at safe limits of total coliforms > 1000 cfu.g −1 ), Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus (> 100 cfu.g −1 ) in both periods of manufacture. Otherwise under refrigeration, as expected, the minimum ripening time was longer, 33 days in the dry season and 63 days in the rainy season. To sum up, we suggest that the ripening of artisanal Minas cheese be done at room temperature, since this condition shortens the time needed to reach the microbiological quality that falls within the safety parameters required by Brazilian law, and at the same time maintain the appearance and flavor characteristics of this traditional cheese. PMID:26221111

Method and apparatus for controlling hybrid powertrain system in response to engine temperature

DOEpatents

Martini, Ryan D; Spohn, Brian L; Lehmen, Allen J; Cerbolles, Teresa L

2014-10-07

A method for controlling a hybrid powertrain system including an internal combustion engine includes controlling operation of the hybrid powertrain system in response to a preferred minimum coolant temperature trajectory for the internal combustion engine.

23 CFR 635.116 - Subcontracting and contractor responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... TRAFFIC OPERATIONS CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE Contract Procedures § 635.116 Subcontracting and contractor responsibilities. (a) Contracts for projects shall specify the minimum percentage of work that a... total original contract price excluding any identified specialty items. Specialty items may be performed...

The Effect of Minimum Wages on Adolescent Fertility: A Nationwide Analysis.

PubMed

Bullinger, Lindsey Rose

2017-03-01

To investigate the effect of minimum wage laws on adolescent birth rates in the United States. I used a difference-in-differences approach and vital statistics data measured quarterly at the state level from 2003 to 2014. All models included state covariates, state and quarter-year fixed effects, and state-specific quarter-year nonlinear time trends, which provided plausibly causal estimates of the effect of minimum wage on adolescent birth rates. A $1 increase in minimum wage reduces adolescent birth rates by about 2%. The effects are driven by non-Hispanic White and Hispanic adolescents. Nationwide, increasing minimum wages by $1 would likely result in roughly 5000 fewer adolescent births annually.

MEMS-based flexible reflective analog modulators (FRAM) for projection displays: a technology review and scale-down study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Picard, Francis; Ilias, Samir; Asselin, Daniel; Boucher, Marc-André; Duchesne, François; Jacob, Michel; Larouche, Carl; Vachon, Carl; Niall, Keith K.; Jerominek, Hubert

2011-02-01

A MEMS based technology for projection display is reviewed. This technology relies on mechanically flexible and reflective microbridges made of aluminum alloy. A linear array of such micromirrors is combined with illumination and Schlieren optics to produce a pixels line. Each microbridge in the array is individually controlled using electrostatic actuation to adjust the pixels intensities. Results of the simulation, fabrication and characterization of these microdevices are presented. Activation voltages below 250 V with response times below 10 μs were obtained for 25 μm × 25 μm micromirrors. With appropriate actuation voltage waveforms, response times of 5 μs and less are achievable. A damage threshold of the mirrors above 8 kW/cm2 has been evaluated. Development of the technology has produced projector engines demonstrating this light modulation principle. The most recent of these engines is DVI compatible and displays VGA video streams at 60 Hz. Recently applications have emerged that impose more stringent requirements on the dimensions of the MEMS array and associated optical system. This triggered a scale down study to evaluate the minimum micromirror size achievable, the impact of this reduced size on the damage threshold and the achievable minimum size of the associated optical system. Preliminary results of this scale down study are reported. FRAM with active surface as small as 5 μm × 5 μm have been investigated. Simulations have shown that such micromirrors could be activated with 107 V to achieve f-number of 1.25. The damage threshold has been estimated for various FRAM sizes. Finally, design of a conceptual miniaturized projector based on 1000×1 array of 5 μm × 5 μm micromirrors is presented. The volume of this projector concept is about 12 cm3.

Refinement of the magnetic resonance diffusion-perfusion mismatch concept for thrombolytic patient selection: insights from the desmoteplase in acute stroke trials.

PubMed

Warach, Steven; Al-Rawi, Yasir; Furlan, Anthony J; Fiebach, Jochen B; Wintermark, Max; Lindstén, Annika; Smyej, Jamal; Bharucha, David B; Pedraza, Salvador; Rowley, Howard A

2012-09-01

The DIAS-2 study was the only large, randomized, intravenous, thrombolytic trial that selected patients based on the presence of ischemic penumbra. However, DIAS-2 did not confirm the positive findings of the smaller DEDAS and DIAS trials, which also used penumbral selection. Therefore, a reevaluation of the penumbra selection strategy is warranted. In post hoc analyses we assessed the relationships of magnetic resonance imaging-measured lesion volumes with clinical measures in DIAS-2, and the relationships of the presence and size of the diffusion-perfusion mismatch with the clinical effect of desmoteplase in DIAS-2 and in pooled data from DIAS, DEDAS, and DIAS-2. In DIAS-2, lesion volumes correlated with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) at both baseline and final time points (P<0.0001), and lesion growth was inversely related to good clinical outcome (P=0.004). In the pooled analysis, desmoteplase was associated with 47% clinical response rate (n=143) vs 34% in placebo (n=73; P=0.08). For both the pooled sample and for DIAS-2, increasing the minimum baseline mismatch volume (MMV) for inclusion increased the desmoteplase effect size. The odds ratio for good clinical response between desmoteplase and placebo treatment was 2.83 (95% confidence interval, 1.16-6.94; P=0.023) for MMV >60 mL. Increasing the minimum NIHSS score for inclusion did not affect treatment effect size. Pooled across all desmoteplase trials, desmoteplase appears beneficial in patients with large MMV and ineffective in patients with small MMV. These results support a modified diffusion-perfusion mismatch hypothesis for patient selection in later time-window thrombolytic trials. Clinical Trial Registration- URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Unique Identifiers: NCT00638781, NCT00638248, NCT00111852.

Application-oriented offloading in heterogeneous networks for mobile cloud computing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tseng, Fan-Hsun; Cho, Hsin-Hung; Chang, Kai-Di; Li, Jheng-Cong; Shih, Timothy K.

2018-04-01

Nowadays Internet applications have become more complicated that mobile device needs more computing resources for shorter execution time but it is restricted to limited battery capacity. Mobile cloud computing (MCC) is emerged to tackle the finite resource problem of mobile device. MCC offloads the tasks and jobs of mobile devices to cloud and fog environments by using offloading scheme. It is vital to MCC that which task should be offloaded and how to offload efficiently. In the paper, we formulate the offloading problem between mobile device and cloud data center and propose two algorithms based on application-oriented for minimum execution time, i.e. the Minimum Offloading Time for Mobile device (MOTM) algorithm and the Minimum Execution Time for Cloud data center (METC) algorithm. The MOTM algorithm minimizes offloading time by selecting appropriate offloading links based on application categories. The METC algorithm minimizes execution time in cloud data center by selecting virtual and physical machines with corresponding resource requirements of applications. Simulation results show that the proposed mechanism not only minimizes total execution time for mobile devices but also decreases their energy consumption.

Antioxidant response of ridgetail white prawn Exopalaemon carinicauda to harmful dinoflagellate Prorocentrum minimum exposure and its histological change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mu, Cuimin; Ren, Xianyun; Ge, Qianqian; Wang, Jiajia; Li, Jian

2017-04-01

The dinoflagellate Prorocentrum minimum, one of the most widespread red tide causing species, affects marine aquaculture and ecosystems worldwide. In this study, ridgetail white prawn Exopalaemon carinicauda were exposed to P. minimum cells (5 × 104 cells mL-1) to investigate its harmful effects on the shrimp. Antioxidant activities and histological changes were used as indicators of health status of the shrimp. In 72 hours, the mortality of E. carinicauda was not affected, but its antioxidant response and histology were statistically different from those of control. Elevated superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activities and depressed catalase (CAT) activity were observed in gill; while increased SOD, glutathione S-transferase (GST), CAT activities and modulated GPX activity were observed in hepatopancreas. Thus, antioxidant activities in gill and hepatopancreas seem to respond differentially to harmful alga exposure. Increased malondialdehyde (MDA) content in early a few hours indicates the damage of the antioxidant defense system. Although MDA content recovered to a low level thereafter, a series of histological abnormalities including accumulation or infiltration of hemocytes, tissue lesions and necrosis were discovered in gill and hepatopancreas. Exposure to P. minimum induced sublethal effects on E. carinicauda, including temporary oxidative damage and histological injury.

A proposed minimum data set for international primary care optometry: a modified Delphi study.

PubMed

Davey, Christopher J; Slade, Sarah V; Shickle, Darren

2017-07-01

To identify a minimum list of metrics of international relevance to public health, research and service development which can be extracted from practice management systems and electronic patient records in primary optometric practice. A two stage modified Delphi technique was used. Stage 1 categorised metrics that may be recorded as being part of a primary eye examination by their importance to research using the results from a previous survey of 40 vision science and public health academics. Delphi stage 2 then gauged the opinion of a panel of seven vision science academics and achieved consensus on contentious metrics and methods of grading/classification. A consensus regarding inclusion and response categories was achieved for nearly all metrics. A recommendation was made of 53 metrics which would be appropriate in a minimum data set. This minimum data set should be easily integrated into clinical practice yet allow vital data to be collected internationally from primary care optometry. It should not be mistaken for a clinical guideline and should not add workload to the optometrist. A pilot study incorporating an additional Delphi stage prior to implementation is advisable to refine some response categories. © 2017 The Authors. Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of College of Optometrists.

Forensic psychiatric expert witnessing within the criminal justice system in Germany.

PubMed

Konrad, Norbert; Völlm, Birgit

2014-01-01

In recent years, the number of occupied beds in German forensic-psychiatric hospitals has continued to rise. Diversion refers to the removal of offenders from the criminal justice system at any stage of the procedure and court proceedings. There are no specific diversion programs in Germany but diversion does in fact happen via legal regulations that are based on the construct of legal responsibility. The assessments of responsibility as well as risk are the core tasks of forensic-psychiatric expert witnessing in Germany. Recommendations of an interdisciplinary working group serve as a guide to operationalize this forensic-psychiatric task. These recommendations list formal minimum requirements for expert reports on the question of criminal responsibility and risk assessment as well as minimum standards regarding content and in writing the report. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The minimum follow-up required for radial head arthroplasty: a meta-analysis.

PubMed

Laumonerie, P; Reina, N; Kerezoudis, P; Declaux, S; Tibbo, M E; Bonnevialle, N; Mansat, P

2017-12-01

The primary aim of this study was to define the standard minimum follow-up required to produce a reliable estimate of the rate of re-operation after radial head arthroplasty (RHA). The secondary objective was to define the leading reasons for re-operation. Four electronic databases, between January 2000 and March 2017 were searched. Articles reporting reasons for re-operation (Group I) and results (Group II) after RHA were included. In Group I, a meta-analysis was performed to obtain the standard minimum follow-up, the mean time to re-operation and the reason for failure. In Group II, the minimum follow-up for each study was compared with the standard minimum follow-up. A total of 40 studies were analysed: three were Group I and included 80 implants and 37 were Group II and included 1192 implants. In Group I, the mean time to re-operation was 1.37 years (0 to 11.25), the standard minimum follow-up was 3.25 years; painful loosening was the main indication for re-operation. In Group II, 33 Group II articles (89.2%) reported a minimum follow-up of < 3.25 years. The literature does not provide a reliable estimate of the rate of re-operation after RHA. The reproducibility of results would be improved by using a minimum follow-up of three years combined with a consensus of the definition of the reasons for failure after RHA. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1561-70. ©2017 The British Editorial Society of Bone & Joint Surgery.

Proton Fluxes Measured by the PAMELA Experiment from the Minimum to the Maximum Solar Activity for Solar Cycle 24

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martucci, M.; Munini, R.; Boezio, M.; Di Felice, V.; Adriani, O.; Barbarino, G. C.; Bazilevskaya, G. A.; Bellotti, R.; Bongi, M.; Bonvicini, V.; Bottai, S.; Bruno, A.; Cafagna, F.; Campana, D.; Carlson, P.; Casolino, M.; Castellini, G.; De Santis, C.; Galper, A. M.; Karelin, A. V.; Koldashov, S. V.; Koldobskiy, S.; Krutkov, S. Y.; Kvashnin, A. N.; Leonov, A.; Malakhov, V.; Marcelli, L.; Marcelli, N.; Mayorov, A. G.; Menn, W.; Mergè, M.; Mikhailov, V. V.; Mocchiutti, E.; Monaco, A.; Mori, N.; Osteria, G.; Panico, B.; Papini, P.; Pearce, M.; Picozza, P.; Ricci, M.; Ricciarini, S. B.; Simon, M.; Sparvoli, R.; Spillantini, P.; Stozhkov, Y. I.; Vacchi, A.; Vannuccini, E.; Vasilyev, G.; Voronov, S. A.; Yurkin, Y. T.; Zampa, G.; Zampa, N.; Potgieter, M. S.; Raath, J. L.

2018-02-01

Precise measurements of the time-dependent intensity of the low-energy (<50 GeV) galactic cosmic rays (GCRs) are fundamental to test and improve the models that describe their propagation inside the heliosphere. In particular, data spanning different solar activity periods, i.e., from minimum to maximum, are needed to achieve comprehensive understanding of such physical phenomena. The minimum phase between solar cycles 23 and 24 was peculiarly long, extending up to the beginning of 2010 and followed by the maximum phase, reached during early 2014. In this Letter, we present proton differential spectra measured from 2010 January to 2014 February by the PAMELA experiment. For the first time the GCR proton intensity was studied over a wide energy range (0.08–50 GeV) by a single apparatus from a minimum to a maximum period of solar activity. The large statistics allowed the time variation to be investigated on a nearly monthly basis. Data were compared and interpreted in the context of a state-of-the-art three-dimensional model describing the GCRs propagation through the heliosphere.

Energy Minimization of Discrete Protein Titration State Models Using Graph Theory.

PubMed

Purvine, Emilie; Monson, Kyle; Jurrus, Elizabeth; Star, Keith; Baker, Nathan A

2016-08-25

There are several applications in computational biophysics that require the optimization of discrete interacting states, for example, amino acid titration states, ligand oxidation states, or discrete rotamer angles. Such optimization can be very time-consuming as it scales exponentially in the number of sites to be optimized. In this paper, we describe a new polynomial time algorithm for optimization of discrete states in macromolecular systems. This algorithm was adapted from image processing and uses techniques from discrete mathematics and graph theory to restate the optimization problem in terms of "maximum flow-minimum cut" graph analysis. The interaction energy graph, a graph in which vertices (amino acids) and edges (interactions) are weighted with their respective energies, is transformed into a flow network in which the value of the minimum cut in the network equals the minimum free energy of the protein and the cut itself encodes the state that achieves the minimum free energy. Because of its deterministic nature and polynomial time performance, this algorithm has the potential to allow for the ionization state of larger proteins to be discovered.

Energy Minimization of Discrete Protein Titration State Models Using Graph Theory

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

Purvine, Emilie AH; Monson, Kyle E.; Jurrus, Elizabeth R.

There are several applications in computational biophysics which require the optimization of discrete interacting states; e.g., amino acid titration states, ligand oxidation states, or discrete rotamer angles. Such optimization can be very time-consuming as it scales exponentially in the number of sites to be optimized. In this paper, we describe a new polynomial-time algorithm for optimization of discrete states in macromolecular systems. This algorithm was adapted from image processing and uses techniques from discrete mathematics and graph theory to restate the optimization problem in terms of maximum flow-minimum cut graph analysis. The interaction energy graph, a graph in which verticesmore » (amino acids) and edges (interactions) are weighted with their respective energies, is transformed into a flow network in which the value of the minimum cut in the network equals the minimum free energy of the protein, and the cut itself encodes the state that achieves the minimum free energy. Because of its deterministic nature and polynomial-time performance, this algorithm has the potential to allow for the ionization state of larger proteins to be discovered.« less

Energy Minimization of Discrete Protein Titration State Models Using Graph Theory

PubMed Central

Purvine, Emilie; Monson, Kyle; Jurrus, Elizabeth; Star, Keith; Baker, Nathan A.

2016-01-01

There are several applications in computational biophysics which require the optimization of discrete interacting states; e.g., amino acid titration states, ligand oxidation states, or discrete rotamer angles. Such optimization can be very time-consuming as it scales exponentially in the number of sites to be optimized. In this paper, we describe a new polynomial-time algorithm for optimization of discrete states in macromolecular systems. This algorithm was adapted from image processing and uses techniques from discrete mathematics and graph theory to restate the optimization problem in terms of “maximum flow-minimum cut” graph analysis. The interaction energy graph, a graph in which vertices (amino acids) and edges (interactions) are weighted with their respective energies, is transformed into a flow network in which the value of the minimum cut in the network equals the minimum free energy of the protein, and the cut itself encodes the state that achieves the minimum free energy. Because of its deterministic nature and polynomial-time performance, this algorithm has the potential to allow for the ionization state of larger proteins to be discovered. PMID:27089174

Finding minimum-quotient cuts in planar graphs

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

Park, J.K.; Phillips, C.A.

Given a graph G = (V, E) where each vertex v {element_of} V is assigned a weight w(v) and each edge e {element_of} E is assigned a cost c(e), the quotient of a cut partitioning the vertices of V into sets S and {bar S} is c(S, {bar S})/min{l_brace}w(S), w(S){r_brace}, where c(S, {bar S}) is the sum of the costs of the edges crossing the cut and w(S) and w({bar S}) are the sum of the weights of the vertices in S and {bar S}, respectively. The problem of finding a cut whose quotient is minimum for a graph hasmore » in recent years attracted considerable attention, due in large part to the work of Rao and Leighton and Rao. They have shown that an algorithm (exact or approximation) for the minimum-quotient-cut problem can be used to obtain an approximation algorithm for the more famous minimumb-balanced-cut problem, which requires finding a cut (S,{bar S}) minimizing c(S,{bar S}) subject to the constraint bW {le} w(S) {le} (1 {minus} b)W, where W is the total vertex weight and b is some fixed balance in the range 0 < b {le} {1/2}. Unfortunately, the minimum-quotient-cut problem is strongly NP-hard for general graphs, and the best polynomial-time approximation algorithm known for the general problem guarantees only a cut whose quotient is at mostO(lg n) times optimal, where n is the size of the graph. However, for planar graphs, the minimum-quotient-cut problem appears more tractable, as Rao has developed several efficient approximation algorithms for the planar version of the problem capable of finding a cut whose quotient is at most some constant times optimal. In this paper, we improve Rao`s algorithms, both in terms of accuracy and speed. As our first result, we present two pseudopolynomial-time exact algorithms for the planar minimum-quotient-cut problem. As Rao`s most accurate approximation algorithm for the problem -- also a pseudopolynomial-time algorithm -- guarantees only a 1.5-times-optimal cut, our algorithms represent a significant advance.« less

14 CFR 1300.20 - Lender responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 5 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Lender responsibilities. 1300.20 Section 1300.20 Aeronautics and Space AIR TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM STABILIZATION OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT AND BUDGET AVIATION DISASTER RELIEF-AIR CARRIER GUARANTEE LOAN PROGRAM Minimum Requirements and Application Procedures...

Electrocoagulation and nanofiltration integrated process application in purification of bilge water using response surface methodology.

PubMed

Akarsu, Ceyhun; Ozay, Yasin; Dizge, Nadir; Elif Gulsen, H; Ates, Hasan; Gozmen, Belgin; Turabik, Meral

Marine pollution has been considered an increasing problem because of the increase in sea transportation day by day. Therefore, a large volume of bilge water which contains petroleum, oil and hydrocarbons in high concentrations is generated from all types of ships. In this study, treatment of bilge water by electrocoagulation/electroflotation and nanofiltration integrated process is investigated as a function of voltage, time, and initial pH with aluminum electrode as both anode and cathode. Moreover, a commercial NF270 flat-sheet membrane was also used for further purification. Box-Behnken design combined with response surface methodology was used to study the response pattern and determine the optimum conditions for maximum chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal and minimum metal ion contents of bilge water. Three independent variables, namely voltage (5-15 V), initial pH (4.5-8.0) and time (30-90 min) were transformed to coded values. The COD removal percent, UV absorbance at 254 nm, pH value (after treatment), and concentration of metal ions (Ti, As, Cu, Cr, Zn, Sr, Mo) were obtained as responses. Analysis of variance results showed that all the models were significant except for Zn (P > 0.05), because the calculated F values for these models were less than the critical F value for the considered probability (P = 0.05). The obtained R(2) and Radj(2) values signified the correlation between the experimental data and predicted responses: except for the model of Zn concentration after treatment, the high R(2) values showed the goodness of fit of the model. While the increase in the applied voltage showed negative effects, the increases in time and pH showed a positive effect on COD removal efficiency; also the most effective linear term was found as time. A positive sign of the interactive coefficients of the voltage-time and pH-time systems indicated synergistic effect on COD removal efficiency, whereas interaction between voltage and pH showed an antagonistic effect.

The light ion trough.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, H. A., Jr.

1972-01-01

A distinct feature of the ion composition results from the OGO-2, 4 and 6 satellites is the light ion trough, wherein the mid-latitude concentrations of H+ and He+ decrease sharply with latitude. In contrast to the 'main trough' in electron density observed primarily as a nightside phenomenon, the light ion trough persists during both day and night. For daytime winter hemisphere conditions and for all seasons during night, the mid-latitude light ion concentration decrease is a pronounced feature. In the dayside summer and equinox hemispheres, the rate of light ion decrease with latitude is comparatively gradual, and the trough boundary is less well defined, particularly for quiet magnetic conditions. In response to magnetic storms, the light ion trough minimum moves equatorward, and deepens, consistent with earlier evidence of the contraction of the plasmasphere in response to storm time enhancements in magnetospheric plasma convection.

Exposure-Response Analysis of Micafungin in Neonatal Candidiasis: Pooled Analysis of Two Clinical Trials.

PubMed

Kovanda, Laura L; Walsh, Thomas J; Benjamin, Daniel K; Arrieta, Antonio; Kaufman, David A; Smith, P Brian; Manzoni, Paolo; Desai, Amit V; Kaibara, Atsunori; Bonate, Peter L; Hope, William W

2018-06-01

Neonatal candidiasis causes significant morbidity and mortality in high risk infants. The micafungin dosage regimen of 10 mg/kg established for the treatment of neonatal candidiasis is based on a laboratory animal model of neonatal hematogenous Candida meningoencephalitis and pharmacokinetic (PK)-pharmacodynamic (PD) bridging studies. However, little is known about the how these PK-PD data translate clinically. Micafungin plasma concentrations from infants were used to construct a population PK model using Pmetrics software. Bayesian posterior estimates for infants with invasive candidiasis were used to evaluate the relationship between drug exposure and mycologic response using logistic regression. Sixty-four infants 3-119 days of age were included, of which 29 (45%) infants had invasive candidiasis. A 2-compartment PK model fits the data well. Allometric scaling was applied to clearance and volume normalized to the mean population weight (kg). The mean (standard deviation) estimates for clearance and volume in the central compartment were 0.07 (0.05) L/h/1.8 kg and 0.61 (0.53) L/1.8 kg, respectively. No relationship between average daily area under concentration-time curve or average daily area under concentration-time curve:minimum inhibitory concentration ratio and mycologic response was demonstrated (P > 0.05). Although not statistically significant, mycologic response was numerically higher when area under concentration-time curves were at or above the PD target. While a significant exposure-response relationship was not found, PK-PD experiments support higher exposures of micafungin in infants with invasive candidiasis. More patients would clarify this relationship; however, low incidence deters the feasibility of these studies.

Dose-Response Association Between Physical Activity and Incident Hypertension: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies.

PubMed

Liu, Xuejiao; Zhang, Dongdong; Liu, Yu; Sun, Xizhuo; Han, Chengyi; Wang, Bingyuan; Ren, Yongcheng; Zhou, Junmei; Zhao, Yang; Shi, Yuanyuan; Hu, Dongsheng; Zhang, Ming

2017-05-01

Despite the inverse association between physical activity (PA) and incident hypertension, a comprehensive assessment of the quantitative dose-response association between PA and hypertension has not been reported. We performed a meta-analysis, including dose-response analysis, to quantitatively evaluate this association. We searched PubMed and Embase databases for articles published up to November 1, 2016. Random effects generalized least squares regression models were used to assess the quantitative association between PA and hypertension risk across studies. Restricted cubic splines were used to model the dose-response association. We identified 22 articles (29 studies) investigating the risk of hypertension with leisure-time PA or total PA, including 330 222 individuals and 67 698 incident cases of hypertension. The risk of hypertension was reduced by 6% (relative risk, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.92-0.96) with each 10 metabolic equivalent of task h/wk increment of leisure-time PA. We found no evidence of a nonlinear dose-response association of PA and hypertension ( P nonlinearity =0.094 for leisure-time PA and 0.771 for total PA). With the linear cubic spline model, when compared with inactive individuals, for those who met the guidelines recommended minimum level of moderate PA (10 metabolic equivalent of task h/wk), the risk of hypertension was reduced by 6% (relative risk, 0.94; 95% confidence interval, 0.92-0.97). This meta-analysis suggests that additional benefits for hypertension prevention occur as the amount of PA increases. © 2017 American Heart Association, Inc.

Computation of the target state and feedback controls for time optimal consensus in multi-agent systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mulla, Ameer K.; Patil, Deepak U.; Chakraborty, Debraj

2018-02-01

N identical agents with bounded inputs aim to reach a common target state (consensus) in the minimum possible time. Algorithms for computing this time-optimal consensus point, the control law to be used by each agent and the time taken for the consensus to occur, are proposed. Two types of multi-agent systems are considered, namely (1) coupled single-integrator agents on a plane and, (2) double-integrator agents on a line. At the initial time instant, each agent is assumed to have access to the state information of all the other agents. An algorithm, using convexity of attainable sets and Helly's theorem, is proposed, to compute the final consensus target state and the minimum time to achieve this consensus. Further, parts of the computation are parallelised amongst the agents such that each agent has to perform computations of O(N2) run time complexity. Finally, local feedback time-optimal control laws are synthesised to drive each agent to the target point in minimum time. During this part of the operation, the controller for each agent uses measurements of only its own states and does not need to communicate with any neighbouring agents.

Jobs Taken by Mothers Moving from Welfare to Work and the Effects of Minimum Wages on This Transition.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brandon, Peter D.

The potential effects of raising the minimum wage on the earnings of mothers moving from welfare to work were examined by analyzing the differences that existed in the late 1980s in the various states' minimum wage rates and data from three waves of the Survey of Income and Program Participation for the years 1985-1990 (during which time 13 states…

Daytime warming has stronger negative effects on soil nematodes than night-time warming.

PubMed

Yan, Xiumin; Wang, Kehong; Song, Lihong; Wang, Xuefeng; Wu, Donghui

2017-03-07

Warming of the climate system is unequivocal, that is, stronger warming during night-time than during daytime. Here we focus on how soil nematodes respond to the current asymmetric warming. A field infrared heating experiment was performed in the western of the Songnen Plain, Northeast China. Three warming modes, i.e. daytime warming, night-time warming and diurnal warming, were taken to perform the asymmetric warming condition. Our results showed that the daytime and diurnal warming treatment significantly decreased soil nematodes density, and night-time warming treatment marginally affected the density. The response of bacterivorous nematode and fungivorous nematode to experimental warming showed the same trend with the total density. Redundancy analysis revealed an opposite effect of soil moisture and soil temperature, and the most important of soil moisture and temperature in night-time among the measured environment factors, affecting soil nematode community. Our findings suggested that daily minimum temperature and warming induced drying are most important factors affecting soil nematode community under the current global asymmetric warming.

Daytime warming has stronger negative effects on soil nematodes than night-time warming.

PubMed

Yan, Xiumin; Wang, Kehong; Song, Lihong; Wang, Xuefeng; Wu, Donghui

2017-03-20

Warming of the climate system is unequivocal, that is, stronger warming during night-time than during daytime. Here we focus on how soil nematodes respond to the current asymmetric warming. A field infrared heating experiment was performed in the western of the Songnen Plain, Northeast China. Three warming modes, i.e. daytime warming, night-time warming and diurnal warming, were taken to perform the asymmetric warming condition. Our results showed that the daytime and diurnal warming treatment significantly decreased soil nematodes density, and night-time warming treatment marginally affected the density. The response of bacterivorous nematode and fungivorous nematode to experimental warming showed the same trend with the total density. Redundancy analysis revealed an opposite effect of soil moisture and soil temperature, and the most important of soil moisture and temperature in night-time among the measured environment factors, affecting soil nematode community. Our findings suggested that daily minimum temperature and warming induced drying are most important factors affecting soil nematode community under the current global asymmetric warming.

Daytime warming has stronger negative effects on soil nematodes than night-time warming

PubMed Central

Yan, Xiumin; Wang, Kehong; Song, Lihong; Wang, Xuefeng; Wu, Donghui

2017-01-01

Warming of the climate system is unequivocal, that is, stronger warming during night-time than during daytime. Here we focus on how soil nematodes respond to the current asymmetric warming. A field infrared heating experiment was performed in the western of the Songnen Plain, Northeast China. Three warming modes, i.e. daytime warming, night-time warming and diurnal warming, were taken to perform the asymmetric warming condition. Our results showed that the daytime and diurnal warming treatment significantly decreased soil nematodes density, and night-time warming treatment marginally affected the density. The response of bacterivorous nematode and fungivorous nematode to experimental warming showed the same trend with the total density. Redundancy analysis revealed an opposite effect of soil moisture and soil temperature, and the most important of soil moisture and temperature in night-time among the measured environment factors, affecting soil nematode community. Our findings suggested that daily minimum temperature and warming induced drying are most important factors affecting soil nematode community under the current global asymmetric warming. PMID:28317914

Daytime warming has stronger negative effects on soil nematodes than night-time warming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Xiumin; Wang, Kehong; Song, Lihong; Wang, Xuefeng; Wu, Donghui

2017-03-01

Warming of the climate system is unequivocal, that is, stronger warming during night-time than during daytime. Here we focus on how soil nematodes respond to the current asymmetric warming. A field infrared heating experiment was performed in the western of the Songnen Plain, Northeast China. Three warming modes, i.e. daytime warming, night-time warming and diurnal warming, were taken to perform the asymmetric warming condition. Our results showed that the daytime and diurnal warming treatment significantly decreased soil nematodes density, and night-time warming treatment marginally affected the density. The response of bacterivorous nematode and fungivorous nematode to experimental warming showed the same trend with the total density. Redundancy analysis revealed an opposite effect of soil moisture and soil temperature, and the most important of soil moisture and temperature in night-time among the measured environment factors, affecting soil nematode community. Our findings suggested that daily minimum temperature and warming induced drying are most important factors affecting soil nematode community under the current global asymmetric warming.

A Transmission Electron Microscope Study of Experimentally Shocked Pregraphitic Carbon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rietmeijer, Frans J. M.

1995-01-01

A transmission electron microscope study of experimental shock metamorphism in natural pre-graphitic carbon simulates the response of the most common natural carbons to increased shock pressure. The d-spacings of this carbon are insensitive to the shock pressure and have no apparent diagnostic value, but progressive comminution occurs in response to increased shock pressure up to 59.6 GPa. The function, P = 869.1 x (size(sub minimum )(exp -0.83), describes the relationship between the minimum root-mean-square subgrain size (nm) and shock pressure (GPa). While a subgrain texture of natural pregraphitic carbons carries little information when pre-shock textures are unknown, this texture may go unnoticed as a shock metamorphic feature.

The effect of methylphenidate and rearing environment on behavioral inhibition in adult male rats.

PubMed

Hill, Jade C; Covarrubias, Pablo; Terry, Joel; Sanabria, Federico

2012-01-01

The ability to withhold reinforced responses-behavioral inhibition-is impaired in various psychiatric conditions including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Methodological and analytical limitations have constrained our understanding of the effects of pharmacological and environmental factors on behavioral inhibition. To determine the effects of acute methylphenidate (MPH) administration and rearing conditions (isolated vs. pair-housed) on behavioral inhibition in adult rats. Inhibitory capacity was evaluated using two response-withholding tasks, differential reinforcement of low rates (DRL) and fixed minimum interval (FMI) schedules of reinforcement. Both tasks made sugar pellets contingent on intervals longer than 6 s between consecutive responses. Inferences on inhibitory and timing capacities were drawn from the distribution of withholding times (interresponse times, or IRTs). MPH increased the number of intervals produced in both tasks. Estimates of behavioral inhibition increased with MPH dose in FMI and with social isolation in DRL. Nonetheless, burst responding in DRL and the divergence of DRL data relative to past studies, among other limitations, undermined the reliability of DRL data as the basis for inferences on behavioral inhibition. Inhibitory capacity was more precisely estimated from FMI than from DRL performance. Based on FMI data, MPH, but not a socially enriched environment, appears to improve inhibitory capacity. The highest dose of MPH tested, 8 mg/kg, did not reduce inhibitory capacity but reduced the responsiveness to waiting contingencies. These results support the use of the FMI schedule, complemented with appropriate analytic techniques, for the assessment of behavioral inhibition in animal models.

Respiratory reflexes in response to nasal administration of halothane to anesthetized, spontaneously breathing dogs.

PubMed

Mutoh, T; Kanamaru, A; Tsubone, H; Nishimura, R; Sasaki, N

2000-03-01

To characterize and determine the sensory innervation of respiratory reflexes elicited by nasal administration of halothane to dogs. 10 healthy Beagles. Dogs underwent permanent tracheostomy and, 2 to 3 weeks later, were anesthetized with thiopental and alpha-chloralose administered IV. The nasal passages were functionally isolated so that halothane could be administered to the nasal passages while dogs were breathing 100% O2 via the tracheostomy. Respiratory reflexes in response to administration of halothane at concentrations of 1.25, 1.75, and 2.5 times the minimum alveolar concentration (MAC), and 5% (administered in 100% O2 at a flow rate of 5 L/min) were recorded. Reflexes in response to administration of 5% halothane were also recorded following transection of the infraorbital nerve, transection of the caudal nasal nerve, and nasal administration of lidocaine. Nasal administration of halothane induced an inhibition of breathing characterized by a dose-dependent increase in expiratory time and a resultant decrease in expired volume per unit time. Effects were noticeable immediately after the onset of halothane administration and lasted until its cessation. Reflex responses to halothane administration were attenuated by transection of the caudal nasal nerve and by nasal administration of lidocaine, but transection of the infraorbital nerve had no effect. Nasal administration of halothane at concentrations generally used for mask induction of anesthesia induces reflex inhibition of breathing. Afferent fibers in the caudal nasal nerve appear to play an important role in the reflex inhibition of breathing induced by halothane administration.

A Symmetric Time-Varying Cluster Rate of Descent Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, Eric S.

2015-01-01

A model of the time-varying rate of descent of the Orion vehicle was developed based on the observed correlation between canopy projected area and drag coefficient. This initial version of the model assumes cluster symmetry and only varies the vertical component of velocity. The cluster fly-out angle is modeled as a series of sine waves based on flight test data. The projected area of each canopy is synchronized with the primary fly-out angle mode. The sudden loss of projected area during canopy collisions is modeled at minimum fly-out angles, leading to brief increases in rate of descent. The cluster geometry is converted to drag coefficient using empirically derived constants. A more complete model is under development, which computes the aerodynamic response of each canopy to its local incidence angle.

Development of Pavement Temperature Contours for India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nivitha, M. R.; Krishnan, J. M.

2014-06-01

The stress-strain response of the bituminous pavements is highly sensitive to temperature. To systematically analyze the pavement performance, it is necessary that one understands the variation of pavement temperature spatially and temporally during the life time of a pavement. In this investigation, historic air temperature data for 37 locations across India was collected. Using this database, pavement temperature data was predicted by an appropriate air temperature-pavement temperature model. High and low temperature pavement temperature contours were generated for the first time for India. It was seen that the locations spanning from Srinagar to Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan to Orissa were extremely critical. The minimum temperature in these locations was 10 C and the maximum temperature was around 68 C. Clearly such information is necessary when making choice of binder grade and bituminous layer thickness.

Efficacy of a Single Dose of Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor: Clinical Observation for 1 Year.

PubMed

Suzuki, Hirotaka; Makiyama, Kiyoshi; Hirai, Ryoji; Matsuzaki, Hiroumi; Furusaka, Toru; Oshima, Takeshi

2016-11-01

Basic fibroblast growth factor promotes wound healing by accelerating healthy granulation and epithelialization. However, the duration of the effects of a single intracordal injection of basic fibroblast growth factor has not been established, and administration intervals and timing have yet to be standardized. Here, we administered a single injection to patients with insufficient glottic closure and conducted follow-up examinations with high-speed digital imaging to determine the duration of the treatment response. Case series. For treatment, 20 µg/mL recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor was injected into two vocal cords. The following examinations were performed before the procedure and at 3-month intervals for 12 months starting at 1 month postinjection: Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, and Strain (GRBAS) scale assessment, maximum phonation time, acoustic analysis, high-speed digital imaging, glottal wave analysis, and kymographic analysis. Postinjection, the GRBAS scale score decreased, and the maximum phonation time was prolonged. In addition, the mean minimum glottal area and mean minimum glottal distance decreased. These changes were significant at 12 months postinjection compared with preinjection. However, there were no significant changes in the vibrations of the vocal cord margins. The intracordal injection of basic fibroblast growth factor improved insufficient glottic closure without reducing the vibrations of the vocal cord margins. This effect remained evident at 12 months postinjection. A single injection can be expected to yield a sufficient and persistent long-term effect. Copyright © 2016 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

In-flight adaptive performance optimization (APO) control using redundant control effectors of an aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gilyard, Glenn B. (Inventor)

1999-01-01

Practical application of real-time (or near real-time) Adaptive Performance Optimization (APO) is provided for a transport aircraft in steady climb, cruise, turn descent or other flight conditions based on measurements and calculations of incremental drag from a forced response maneuver of one or more redundant control effectors defined as those in excess of the minimum set of control effectors required to maintain the steady flight condition in progress. The method comprises the steps of applying excitation in a raised-cosine form over an interval of from 100 to 500 sec. at the rate of 1 to 10 sets/sec of excitation, and data for analysis is gathered in sets of measurements made during the excitation to calculate lift and drag coefficients C.sub.L and C.sub.D from two equations, one for each coefficient. A third equation is an expansion of C.sub.D as a function of parasitic drag, induced drag, Mach and altitude drag effects, and control effector drag, and assumes a quadratic variation of drag with positions .delta..sub.i of redundant control effectors i=1 to n. The third equation is then solved for .delta..sub.iopt the optimal position of redundant control effector i, which is then used to set the control effector i for optimum performance during the remainder of said steady flight or until monitored flight conditions change by some predetermined amount as determined automatically or a predetermined minimum flight time has elapsed.

Entropy considerations applied to shock unsteadiness in hypersonic inlets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bussey, Gillian Mary Harding

The stability of curved or rectangular shocks in hypersonic inlets in response to flow perturbations can be determined analytically from the principle of minimum entropy. Unsteady shock wave motion can have a significant effect on the flow in a hypersonic inlet or combustor. According to the principle of minimum entropy, a stable thermodynamic state is one with the lowest entropy gain. A model based on piston theory and its limits has been developed for applying the principle of minimum entropy to quasi-steady flow. Relations are derived for analyzing the time-averaged entropy gain flux across a shock for quasi-steady perturbations in atmospheric conditions and angle as a perturbation in entropy gain flux from the steady state. Initial results from sweeping a wedge at Mach 10 through several degrees in AEDC's Tunnel 9 indicates the bow shock becomes unsteady near the predicted normal Mach number. Several curved shocks of varying curvature are compared to a straight shock with the same mean normal Mach number, pressure ratio, or temperature ratio. The present work provides analysis and guidelines for designing an inlet robust to off- design flight or perturbations in flow conditions an inlet is likely to face. It also suggests that inlets with curved shocks are less robust to off-design flight than those with straight shocks such as rectangular inlets. Relations for evaluating entropy perturbations for highly unsteady flow across a shock and limits on their use were also developed. The normal Mach number at which a shock could be stable to high frequency upstream perturbations increases as the speed of the shock motion increases and slightly decreases as the perturbation size increases. The present work advances the principle of minimum entropy theory by providing additional validity for using the theory for time-varying flows and applying it to shocks, specifically those in inlets. While this analytic tool is applied in the present work for evaluating the stability of shocks in hypersonic inlets, it can be used for an arbitrary application with a shock.

Potential Seasonal Terrestrial Water Storage Monitoring from GPS Vertical Displacements: A Case Study in the Lower Three-Rivers Headwater Region, China

PubMed Central

Zhang, Bao; Yao, Yibin; Fok, Hok Sum; Hu, Yufeng; Chen, Qiang

2016-01-01

This study uses the observed vertical displacements of Global Positioning System (GPS) time series obtained from the Crustal Movement Observation Network of China (CMONOC) with careful pre- and post-processing to estimate the seasonal crustal deformation in response to the hydrological loading in lower three-rivers headwater region of southwest China, followed by inferring the annual EWH changes through geodetic inversion methods. The Helmert Variance Component Estimation (HVCE) and the Minimum Mean Square Error (MMSE) criterion were successfully employed. The GPS inferred EWH changes agree well qualitatively with the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE)-inferred and the Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS)-inferred EWH changes, with a discrepancy of 3.2–3.9 cm and 4.8–5.2 cm, respectively. In the research areas, the EWH changes in the Lancang basin is larger than in the other regions, with a maximum of 21.8–24.7 cm and a minimum of 3.1–6.9 cm. PMID:27657064

Mammals' response and adaptation to static magnetic fields as a nonspecific stressor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakagawa, Masayoshi

1990-06-01

Biological effects of static magnetic fields are still unclear and sometimes contradictory, and it has not been possible to connect this situation directly to some explanations of the mechanisms of the effects of static magnetic fields at the molecular level. Some researchers have pointed out that the process through which animals respond at the whole-body level to static magnetic fields follows the same pattern as the GAS (general adaptation syndrome) described by Selye. This biological or behavioral pattern is considered to be a common process followed by animals which are affected by environmental stimulants; they are depressed first, then surpass the deteriorated conditions and recover their normal conditions, or sometimes overshoot it. When this process is observed with mammals subjected to the magnetic fields, it can be concluded that magnetism has affected the organism. In this paper, the author reviews reports in which magnetic field density and minimum exposure time were determined with certain effects produced under certain conditions, and proposes a regression model for estimating the minimum amount of exposure which produces some effect on mammals.

Phenomena of nonlinear oscillation and special resonance of a dielectric elastomer minimum energy structure rotary joint

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Jianwen; Niu, Junyang; McCoul, David; Ren, Zhi; Pei, Qibing

2015-03-01

The dielectric elastomer minimum energy structure can realize large angular deformations by a small voltage-induced strain of the dielectric elastomer, so it is a suitable candidate to make a rotary joint for a soft robot. Driven with an alternating electric field, the joint deformation vibrational frequency follows the input voltage frequency. However, the authors find that if the rotational inertia increases such that the inertial torque makes the frame deform over a negative angle, then the joint motion will become complicated and the vibrational mode will alter with the change of voltage frequency. The vibration with the largest amplitude does not occur while the voltage frequency is equal to natural response frequency of the joint. Rather, the vibrational amplitude will be quite large over a range of other frequencies at which the vibrational frequency is half of the voltage frequency. This phenomenon was analyzed by a comparison of the timing sequences between voltage and joint vibration. This vibrational mode with the largest amplitude can be applied to the generation lift in a flapping wing actuated by dielectric elastomers.

Evidence of a reverse side-chain effect of tris(pentafluoroethyl)trifluorophosphate [FAP]-based ionic liquids against pathogenic bacteria.

PubMed

Weyhing-Zerrer, Nadine; Kalb, Roland; Oßmer, Rolf; Rossmanith, Peter; Mester, Patrick

2018-02-01

Increased interest in ionic liquids (ILs) is due to their designable and tunable unique physicochemical properties, which are utilized for a wide variety of chemical and biotechnological applications. ILs containing the tris(pentafluoroethyl)trifluorophosphate ([FAP]) anion have been shown to have excellent hydrolytic, electrochemical and thermal stability and have been successfully used in various applications. In the present study the influence of the cation on the toxicity of the [FAP] anion was investigated. Due to the properties of [FAP] ILs, the IL-toxicity of seven cations with [FAP] compared to [Cl] was examined by determination of minimum inhibitory (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) on six Gram-positive and six Gram-negative clinically-relevant bacteria. For the first time, to our knowledge, the results provide evidence for a decrease in toxicity with increasing alkyl side-chain length, indicating that the combination of both ions is responsible for this 'reverse side-chain effect'. These findings could portend development of new non-toxic ILs as green alternatives to conventional organic solvents. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

How well do WHO complementary feeding indicators relate to nutritional status of children aged 6-23 months in rural Northern Ghana?

PubMed

Saaka, Mahama; Wemakor, Anthony; Abizari, Abdul-Razak; Aryee, Paul

2015-11-23

Though the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) indicators have been in use, little is known about their association with child nutritional status. The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between IYCF indicators (timing of complementary feeding, minimum dietary diversity, minimum meal frequency and minimum acceptable diet) and child growth indicators. A community-based cross-sectional survey was carried out in November 2013. The study population comprised mothers/primary caregivers and their children selected using a two-stage cluster sampling procedure. Of the 1984 children aged 6-23 months; 58.2 % met the minimum meal frequency, 34.8 % received minimum dietary diversity (≥4 food groups), 27.8 % had received minimum acceptable diet and only 15.7 % received appropriate complementary feeding. With respect to nutritional status, 20.5 %, 11.5 % and 21.1 % of the study population were stunted, wasted and underweight respectively. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that compared to children who were introduced to complementary feeding either late or early, children who started complementary feeding at six months of age were 25 % protected from chronic malnutrition (AOR = 0.75, CI = 0.50 - 0.95, P = 0.02). It was found that children whose mothers attended antenatal care (ANC) at least 4 times were 34 % protected [AOR 0.66; 95 % CI (0.50 - 0.88)] against stunted growth compared to children born to mothers who attended ANC less than 4 times. Children from households with high household wealth index were 51 % protected [AOR 0.49; 95 % CI (0.26 - 0.94)] against chronic malnutrition compared to children from households with low household wealth index. After adjusting for potential confounders, there was a significant positive association between appropriate complementary feeding index and mean WLZ (β = 0.10, p = 0.005) but was not associated with mean LAZ. The WHO IYCF indicators better explain weight-for-length Z-scores than length-for-age Z-scores of young children in rural Northern Ghana. Furthermore, a composite indicator comprising timely introduction of solid, semi-solid or soft foods at 6 months, minimum meal frequency, and minimum dietary diversity better explains weight-for-length Z-scores than each of the single indicators.

Minimum information about a single amplified genome (MISAG) and a metagenome-assembled genome (MIMAG) of bacteria and archaea

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

Bowers, Robert M.; Kyrpides, Nikos C.; Stepanauskas, Ramunas

The number of genomes from uncultivated microbes will soon surpass the number of isolate genomes in public databases (Hugenholtz, Skarshewski, & Parks, 2016). Technological advancements in high-throughput sequencing and assembly, including single-cell genomics and the computational extraction of genomes from metagenomes (GFMs), are largely responsible. Here we propose community standards for reporting the Minimum Information about a Single-Cell Genome (MIxS-SCG) and Minimum Information about Genomes extracted From Metagenomes (MIxS-GFM) specific for Bacteria and Archaea. The standards have been developed in the context of the International Genomics Standards Consortium (GSC) community (Field et al., 2014) and can be viewed as amore » supplement to other GSC checklists including the Minimum Information about a Genome Sequence (MIGS), Minimum information about a Metagenomic Sequence(s) (MIMS) (Field et al., 2008) and Minimum Information about a Marker Gene Sequence (MIMARKS) (P. Yilmaz et al., 2011). Community-wide acceptance of MIxS-SCG and MIxS-GFM for Bacteria and Archaea will enable broad comparative analyses of genomes from the majority of taxa that remain uncultivated, improving our understanding of microbial function, ecology, and evolution.« less

Phenobarbital and temperature profile during hypothermia for hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy

PubMed Central

Sant’Anna, Guilherme; Laptook, Abbot R.; Shankaran, Seetha; Bara, Rebecca; McDonald, Scott A.; Higgins, Rosemary D.; Tyson, Jon E.; Ehrenkranz, Richard A.; Das, Abhik; Goldberg, Ronald N.; Walsh, Michele C.

2012-01-01

Data from the whole body hypothermia trial was analyzed to examine the effects of phenobarbital administration prior to cooling (+PB) on the esophageal temperature (Te) profile, during the induction phase of hypothermia. A total of 98 infants were analyzed. At enrollment, +PB infants had a higher rate of severe HIE and clinical seizures and lower Te and cord pH than infants that have not received PB (−PB). There was a significant effect of PB itself and an interaction between PB and time in the Te profile. Mean Te in the +PB group was lower than in the −PB group and the differences decreased over time. In +PB infants the time to surpass target Te of 33.5°C and to reach the minimum Te during overshoot were shorter. In conclusion, the administration of PB prior to cooling was associated with changes that may reflect a reduced thermogenic response associated with barbiturates. PMID:21960671

Droplet squeezing through a narrow constriction: Minimum impulse and critical velocity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Zhifeng; Drapaca, Corina; Chen, Xiaolin; Xu, Jie

2017-07-01

Models of a droplet passing through narrow constrictions have wide applications in science and engineering. In this paper, we report our findings on the minimum impulse (momentum change) of pushing a droplet through a narrow circular constriction. The existence of this minimum impulse is mathematically derived and numerically verified. The minimum impulse happens at a critical velocity when the time-averaged Young-Laplace pressure balances the total minor pressure loss in the constriction. Finally, numerical simulations are conducted to verify these concepts. These results could be relevant to problems of energy optimization and studies of chemical and biomedical systems.

Investment Policies for College and University Endowments.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Spitz, William T.

1999-01-01

College trustees have a responsibility to institute investment policies that preserve real endowment value. The chief financial officer's responsibility varies, but at a minimum should provide the board with essential information and ensure that trustees understand the importance of policy decisions. Critical tasks include establishing and…

Arterial carboxyhemoglobin level and outcome in critically ill patients.

PubMed

Melley, Daniel D; Finney, Simon J; Elia, Androula; Lagan, Anna L; Quinlan, Gregory J; Evans, Timothy W

2007-08-01

Arterial carboxyhemoglobin is elevated in patients with critical illness. It is an indicator of the endogenous production of carbon monoxide by the enzyme heme oxygenase, which modulates the response to oxidant stress. The objective was to explore the hypothesis that arterial carboxyhemoglobin level is associated with inflammation and survival in patients requiring cardiothoracic intensive care. Prospective, observational study. A cardiothoracic intensive care unit. All patients admitted over a 15-month period. None. Arterial carboxyhemoglobin, bilirubin, and standard biochemical, hematologic, and physiologic markers of inflammation were measured in 1,267 patients. Associations were sought between levels of arterial carboxyhemoglobin, markers of the inflammatory response, and clinical outcome. Intensive care unit mortality was associated with lower minimum and greater maximal carboxyhemoglobin levels (p < .0001 and p < .001, respectively). After adjustment for age, gender, illness severity, and other relevant variables, a lower minimum arterial carboxyhemoglobin was associated with an increased risk of death from all causes (odds risk of death, 0.391; 95% confidence interval, 0.190-0.807; p = .011). Arterial carboxyhemoglobin correlated with markers of the inflammatory response. Both low minimum and high maximum levels of arterial carboxyhemoglobin were associated with increased intensive care mortality. Although the heme oxygenase system is protective, excessive induction may be deleterious. This suggests that there may be an optimal range for heme oxygenase-1 induction.

Optimization of enzymatic hydrolysis of guar gum using response surface methodology.

PubMed

Mudgil, Deepak; Barak, Sheweta; Khatkar, B S

2014-08-01

Guar gum is a polysaccharide obtained from guar seed endosperm portion. Enzymatically hydrolyzed guar gum is low in viscosity and has several health benefits as dietary fiber. In this study, response surface methodology was used to determine the optimum conditions for hydrolysis that give minimum viscosity of guar gum. Central composite was employed to investigate the effects of pH (3-7), temperature (20-60 °C), reaction time (1-5 h) and cellulase concentration (0.25-1.25 mg/g) on viscosity during enzymatic hydrolysis of guar (Cyamopsis tetragonolobus) gum. A second order polynomial model was developed for viscosity using regression analysis. Results revealed statistical significance of model as evidenced from high value of coefficient of determination (R(2) = 0.9472) and P < 0.05. Viscosity was primarily affected by cellulase concentration, pH and hydrolysis time. Maximum viscosity reduction was obtained when pH, temperature, hydrolysis time and cellulase concentration were 6, 50 °C, 4 h and 1.00 mg/g, respectively. The study is important in optimizing the enzymatic process for hydrolysis of guar gum as potential source of soluble dietary fiber for human health benefits.

Optimal apparent damping as a function of the bandwidth of an array of vibration absorbers.

PubMed

Vignola, Joseph; Glean, Aldo; Judge, John; Ryan, Teresa

2013-08-01

The transient response of a resonant structure can be altered by the attachment of one or more substantially smaller resonators. Considered here is a coupled array of damped harmonic oscillators whose resonant frequencies are distributed across a frequency band that encompasses the natural frequency of the primary structure. Vibration energy introduced to the primary structure, which has little to no intrinsic damping, is transferred into and trapped by the attached array. It is shown that, when the properties of the array are optimized to reduce the settling time of the primary structure's transient response, the apparent damping is approximately proportional to the bandwidth of the array (the span of resonant frequencies of the attached oscillators). Numerical simulations were conducted using an unconstrained nonlinear minimization algorithm to find system parameters that result in the fastest settling time. This minimization was conducted for a range of system characteristics including the overall bandwidth of the array, the ratio of the total array mass to that of the primary structure, and the distributions of mass, stiffness, and damping among the array elements. This paper reports optimal values of these parameters and demonstrates that the resulting minimum settling time decreases with increasing bandwidth.

Hot electron generation by aluminum oligomers in plasmonic ultraviolet photodetectors.

PubMed

Ahmadivand, Arash; Sinha, Raju; Vabbina, Phani Kiran; Karabiyik, Mustafa; Kaya, Serkan; Pala, Nezih

2016-06-13

We report on an integrated plasmonic ultraviolet (UV) photodetector composed of aluminum Fano-resonant heptamer nanoantennas deposited on a Gallium Nitride (GaN) active layer which is grown on a sapphire substrate to generate significant photocurrent via formation of hot electrons by nanoclusters upon the decay of nonequilibrium plasmons. Using the plasmon hybridization theory and finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method, it is shown that the generation of hot carriers by metallic clusters illuminated by UV beam leads to a large photocurrent. The induced Fano resonance (FR) minimum across the UV spectrum allows for noticeable enhancement in the absorption of optical power yielding a plasmonic UV photodetector with a high responsivity. It is also shown that varying the thickness of the oxide layer (Al₂O₃) around the nanodisks (tox) in a heptamer assembly adjusted the generated photocurrent and responsivity. The proposed plasmonic structure opens new horizons for designing and fabricating efficient opto-electronics devices with high gain and responsivity.

Movement Limitation and Immune Responses of Rhesus Monkeys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sonnenfeld, Gerald; Morton, Darla S.; Swiggett, Jeanene P.; Hakenewerth, Anne M.; Fowler, Nina A.

1993-01-01

The effects of restraint on immunological parameters was determined in an 18 day ARRT (adult rhesus restraint test). The monkeys were restrained for 18 days in the experimental station for the orbiting primate (ESOP), the chair of choice for Space Shuttle experiments. Several immunological parameters were determined using peripheral blood, bone marrow, and lymph node specimens from the monkeys. The parameters included: response of bone marrow cells to GM-CSF (granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor), leukocyte subset distribution, and production of IFN-alpha (interferon-alpha) and IFN-gamma (interferon-gamma). The only parameter changed after 18 days of restraint was the percentage of CDB+ T cells. No other immunological parameters showed changes due to restraint. Handling and changes in housing prior to the restraint period did apparently result in some restraint-independent immunological changes. Handling must be kept to a minimum and the animals allowed time to recover prior to flight. All experiments must be carefully controlled. Restraint does not appear to be a major issue regarding the effects of space flight on immune responses.

Spaceflight and immune responses of rhesus monkeys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sonnenfeld, Gerald; Morton, Darla S.; Swiggett, Jeanene P.; Hakenewerth, Anne M.; Fowler, Nina A.

1995-01-01

The effects of restraint on immunological parameters was determined in an 18 day ARRT (adult rhesus restraint test). The monkeys were restrained for 18 days in the experimental station for the orbiting primate (ESOP), the chair of choice for Space Shuttle experiments. Several immunological parameters were determined using peripheral blood, bone marrow, and lymph node specimens from the monkeys. The parameters included: response of bone marrow cells to GM-CSF (granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor), leukocyte subset distribution, and production of IFN-a (interferon-alpha) and IFN-gamma (interferon-gamma). The only parameter changed after 18 days of restraint was the percentage of CD8+ T cells. No other immunological parameters showed changes due to restraint. Handling and changes in housing prior to the restraint period did apparently result in some restraint-independent immunological changes. Handling must be kept to a minimum and the animals allowed time to recover prior to flight. All experiments must be carefully controlled. Restraint does not appear to be a major issue regarding the effects of space flight on immune responses.

[68% of Brazilians want abortion prohibited].

PubMed

1991-09-25

According to a survey, 68% of the Brazilian population want the continuation of the law banning abortion. Only 24% favor liberalization. The penal code stipulates a jail term of 2-8 years for abortion. The survey was carried out in 1991 involving 7018 persons aged 16 in 15 municipalities. 71% who approved the ban lived in the northeast north, and central-east regions. 68% in the south and 65% in the southeast were in favor of the prohibition. 74% in the small towns endorsed this law. 73% with up to 5 times the minimum monthly salary were against abortion, 65% of those with incomes between 5-10 times the minimum salary and 57% of those earning more than 10 times the minimum salary condemned abortion. 72% of women and 64% of men were against it. 73% of young people aged 16-25 wanted the continuation of the ban, compared to 66% of those aged 26-40 and 65% of people 41 or over. 72% of those with up to primary school education, 65% with secondary school education, and 48% with higher education approved the ban. Among those who favored liberalization, 27% lived in the southwest region, 31% were inhabitants of large cities, 36% earned more than 10 times the minimum income monthly, and 39% had obtained higher education.

Do the western Himalayas defy global warming?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yadav, Ram R.; Park, Won-Kyu; Singh, Jayendra; Dubey, Bhasha

2004-09-01

Observational records and reconstructions from tree rings reflect premonsoon (March to May) temperature cooling in the western Himalaya during the latter part of the 20th century. A rapid decrease of minimum temperatures at around three times higher rate, as compared to the rate of increase in maximum temperatures found in local climate records is responsible for the cooling trend in mean premonsoon temperature. The increase of the diurnal temperature range is attributed to large scale deforestation and land degradation in the area and shows the higher influence of local forcing factors on climate in contrast to the general trend found in higher latitudes of the northern Hemisphere.

25 CFR 39.214 - What is the minimum number of instructional hours required in order to be considered a full-time...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... INDIAN AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR EDUCATION THE INDIAN SCHOOL EQUALIZATION PROGRAM Administrative Procedures, Student Counts, and Verifications § 39.214 What is the minimum number of instructional...

Diffusion-weighted imaging of breast lesions: Region-of-interest placement and different ADC parameters influence apparent diffusion coefficient values.

PubMed

Bickel, Hubert; Pinker, Katja; Polanec, Stephan; Magometschnigg, Heinrich; Wengert, Georg; Spick, Claudio; Bogner, Wolfgang; Bago-Horvath, Zsuzsanna; Helbich, Thomas H; Baltzer, Pascal

2017-05-01

To investigate the influence of region-of-interest (ROI) placement and different apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) parameters on ADC values, diagnostic performance, reproducibility and measurement time in breast tumours. In this IRB-approved, retrospective study, 149 histopathologically proven breast tumours (109 malignant, 40 benign) in 147 women (mean age 53.2) were investigated. Three radiologists independently measured minimum, mean and maximum ADC, each using three ROI placement approaches:1 - small 2D-ROI, 2 - large 2D-ROI and 3 - 3D-ROI covering the whole lesion. One reader performed all measurements twice. Median ADC values, diagnostic performance, reproducibility, and measurement time were calculated and compared between all combinations of ROI placement approaches and ADC parameters. Median ADC values differed significantly between the ROI placement approaches (p < .001). Minimum ADC showed the best diagnostic performance (AUC .928-.956), followed by mean ADC obtained from 2D ROIs (.926-.94). Minimum and mean ADC showed high intra- (ICC .85-.94) and inter-reader reproducibility (ICC .74-.94). Median measurement time was significantly shorter for the 2D ROIs (p < .001). ROI placement significantly influences ADC values measured in breast tumours. Minimum and mean ADC acquired from 2D-ROIs are useful for the differentiation of benign and malignant breast lesions, and are highly reproducible, with rapid measurement. • Region of interest placement significantly influences apparent diffusion coefficient of breast tumours. • Minimum and mean apparent diffusion coefficient perform best and are reproducible. • 2D regions of interest perform best and provide rapid measurement times.

The EQ-5D-5L health status questionnaire in COPD: validity, responsiveness and minimum important difference.

PubMed

Nolan, Claire M; Longworth, Louise; Lord, Joanne; Canavan, Jane L; Jones, Sarah E; Kon, Samantha S C; Man, William D-C

2016-06-01

The EQ-5D, a generic health status questionnaire that is widely used in health economic evaluation, was recently expanded to the EQ-5D-5L to address criticisms of unresponsiveness and ceiling effect. To describe the validity, responsiveness and minimum important difference of the EQ-5D-5L in COPD. Study 1: The validity of the EQ-5D-5L utility index and visual analogue scale (EQ-VAS) was compared with four established disease-specific health status questionnaires and other measures of disease severity in 616 stable outpatients with COPD. Study 2: The EQ-5D-5L utility index and EQ-VAS were measured in 324 patients with COPD before and after 8 weeks of pulmonary rehabilitation. Distribution and anchor-based approaches were used to estimate the minimum important difference. There were moderate-to-strong correlations between utility index and EQ-VAS with disease-specific questionnaires (Pearson's r=0.47-0.72). A ceiling effect was seen in 7% and 2.6% of utility index and EQ-VAS. Utility index decreased (worsening health status) with indices of worsening disease severity. With rehabilitation, mean (95% CI) changes in utility index and EQ-VAS were 0.065 (0.047 to 0.083) and 8.6 (6.5 to 10.7), respectively, with standardised response means of 0.39 and 0.44. The mean (range) anchor estimates of the minimum important difference for utility index and EQ-VAS were 0.051 (0.037 to 0.063) and 6.9 (6.5 to 8.0), respectively. The EQ-5D-5L is a valid and responsive measure of health status in COPD and may provide useful additional cost-effectiveness data in clinical trials. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Minimum entropy density method for the time series analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jeong Won; Park, Joongwoo Brian; Jo, Hang-Hyun; Yang, Jae-Suk; Moon, Hie-Tae

2009-01-01

The entropy density is an intuitive and powerful concept to study the complicated nonlinear processes derived from physical systems. We develop the minimum entropy density method (MEDM) to detect the structure scale of a given time series, which is defined as the scale in which the uncertainty is minimized, hence the pattern is revealed most. The MEDM is applied to the financial time series of Standard and Poor’s 500 index from February 1983 to April 2006. Then the temporal behavior of structure scale is obtained and analyzed in relation to the information delivery time and efficient market hypothesis.

Fuzzy α-minimum spanning tree problem: definition and solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Jian; Chen, Lu; Wang, Ke; Yang, Fan

2016-04-01

In this paper, the minimum spanning tree problem is investigated on the graph with fuzzy edge weights. The notion of fuzzy ? -minimum spanning tree is presented based on the credibility measure, and then the solutions of the fuzzy ? -minimum spanning tree problem are discussed under different assumptions. First, we respectively, assume that all the edge weights are triangular fuzzy numbers and trapezoidal fuzzy numbers and prove that the fuzzy ? -minimum spanning tree problem can be transformed to a classical problem on a crisp graph in these two cases, which can be solved by classical algorithms such as the Kruskal algorithm and the Prim algorithm in polynomial time. Subsequently, as for the case that the edge weights are general fuzzy numbers, a fuzzy simulation-based genetic algorithm using Prüfer number representation is designed for solving the fuzzy ? -minimum spanning tree problem. Some numerical examples are also provided for illustrating the effectiveness of the proposed solutions.

High exhaust temperature, zoned, electrically-heated particulate matter filter

DOEpatents

Gonze, Eugene V.; Paratore, Jr., Michael J.; Bhatia, Garima

2015-09-22

A system includes a particulate matter (PM) filter, an electric heater, and a control circuit. The electric heater includes multiple zones, which each correspond to longitudinal zones along a length of the PM filter. A first zone includes multiple discontinuous sub-zones. The control circuit determines whether regeneration is needed based on an estimated level of loading of the PM filter and an exhaust flow rate. In response to a determination that regeneration is needed, the control circuit: controls an operating parameter of an engine to increase an exhaust temperature to a first temperature during a first period; after the first period, activates the first zone; deactivates the first zone in response to a minimum filter face temperature being reached; subsequent to deactivating the first zone, activates a second zone; and deactivates the second zone in response to the minimum filter face temperature being reached.

FRAMEWORK FOR RESPONSIBLE DECISION-MAKING (FRED): A TOOL FOR ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE PRODUCTS

EPA Science Inventory

In support of the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Program of the USEPA, a decision-making tool based on life cycle assessment has been developed. This tool, the Framework for Responsible Environmental Decision-making or FRED, streamlines LCA by choosing a minimum list of im...

30 CFR 780.4 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... MINING AND RECLAMATION OPERATIONS PERMITS AND COAL EXPLORATION SYSTEMS UNDER REGULATORY PROGRAMS SURFACE MINING PERMIT APPLICATIONS-MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR RECLAMATION AND OPERATION PLAN § 780.4...

30 CFR 784.4 - Responsibilities.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... MINING AND RECLAMATION OPERATIONS PERMITS AND COAL EXPLORATION SYSTEMS UNDER REGULATORY PROGRAMS UNDERGROUND MINING PERMIT APPLICATIONS-MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR RECLAMATION AND OPERATION PLAN § 784.4...

Trade-offs between driving nodes and time-to-control in complex networks

PubMed Central

Pequito, Sérgio; Preciado, Victor M.; Barabási, Albert-László; Pappas, George J.

2017-01-01

Recent advances in control theory provide us with efficient tools to determine the minimum number of driving (or driven) nodes to steer a complex network towards a desired state. Furthermore, we often need to do it within a given time window, so it is of practical importance to understand the trade-offs between the minimum number of driving/driven nodes and the minimum time required to reach a desired state. Therefore, we introduce the notion of actuation spectrum to capture such trade-offs, which we used to find that in many complex networks only a small fraction of driving (or driven) nodes is required to steer the network to a desired state within a relatively small time window. Furthermore, our empirical studies reveal that, even though synthetic network models are designed to present structural properties similar to those observed in real networks, their actuation spectra can be dramatically different. Thus, it supports the need to develop new synthetic network models able to replicate controllability properties of real-world networks. PMID:28054597

Trade-offs between driving nodes and time-to-control in complex networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pequito, Sérgio; Preciado, Victor M.; Barabási, Albert-László; Pappas, George J.

2017-01-01

Recent advances in control theory provide us with efficient tools to determine the minimum number of driving (or driven) nodes to steer a complex network towards a desired state. Furthermore, we often need to do it within a given time window, so it is of practical importance to understand the trade-offs between the minimum number of driving/driven nodes and the minimum time required to reach a desired state. Therefore, we introduce the notion of actuation spectrum to capture such trade-offs, which we used to find that in many complex networks only a small fraction of driving (or driven) nodes is required to steer the network to a desired state within a relatively small time window. Furthermore, our empirical studies reveal that, even though synthetic network models are designed to present structural properties similar to those observed in real networks, their actuation spectra can be dramatically different. Thus, it supports the need to develop new synthetic network models able to replicate controllability properties of real-world networks.

The effect of alcohol price on dependent drinkers' alcohol consumption.

PubMed

Falkner, Carolyn; Christie, Grant; Zhou, Lifeng; King, Julian

2015-12-18

To investigate the current purchasing behaviours of a group of dependent drinkers and their potential response to future increases in the price of alcohol. 115 clients undergoing medical detoxification completed an anonymous survey about their daily alcohol consumption, its cost, their response to potential price increases and strategies previously used when unable to afford alcohol. Mean and median number of standard drinks consumed per day was 24, at a median cost of $25 NZD (95%CI $22, $30). Thirty-six per cent (95%CI 26%, 46%) of the group bought alcohol at $1 or less per standard drink, and the median number of drinks consumed per day (30) by this group was significantly higher (p=0.0028) than the rest of the sample (22.5). The most common strategy used if no money was available to purchase alcohol was to forgo essentials. If facing a potential price rise, 77% (95%CI 69%, 85%) would switch wholly or partially to a cheaper product and 13% (95%CI 8%, 21%) would cut down their drinking. Although the majority of our group would be financially impacted by an increase in the minimum price per standard drink, any potential impacts would be most significant in those buying the cheapest alcohol (who also drink the most), suggesting that minimum pricing may be an important harm minimisation strategy in this group. A minimum price per standard drink would limit the possibility of switching to an alternate cheaper product and likely result in an overall reduction in alcohol consumption in this group. Stealing alcohol, or the use of non-beverage alcohol, were seldom reported as previous strategies used in response to unaffordable alcohol and fears of such are not valid reasons for rejecting minimum pricing to reduce general population consumption.

Development of a Transient Thrust Stand with Sub-Millisecond Resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spells, Corbin Fraser

The transient thrust stand has been developed to offer 0.1 ms time resolved thrust measurements for the characterization of mono-propellant thrusters for spacecraft applications. Results demonstrated that the system was capable of obtaining dynamic thrust profiles within 5 % and 0.1 ms. Measuring and improving the thrust performance of mono-propellant thrusters will require 1 ms time resolved forces to observe shot-to-shot variations, oscillations, and minimum impulse bits. To date, no thrust stand is capable of measuring up to 22 N forces with a time response of up to 10 kHz. Calibration forces up to 22 N with a frequency response greater than 0.1 ms were obtained using voice coil actuators. Steady state and low frequency measurements were obtained using displacement and velocity sensors and were combined with high frequency vibration modes measured using several accelerometers along the thrust stand arm. The system uses a predictor-based subspace algorithm to obtain a high order state space model of the thrust stand capable of defining the high frequency vibration modes. The high frequency vibration modes are necessary to provide the time response of 0.1 ms. Thruster forces are estimated using an augmented Kalman filter to combine sensor traces from four accelerometers, a velocity sensor, and displacement transducer. Combining low frequency displacement data with high frequency acceleration measurements provides accurate force data across a broad time domain. The transient thrust stand uses a torsional pendulum configuration to minimize influence from external vibration and achieve high force resolution independent of thruster weight.

Calculation of Appropriate Minimum Size of Isolation Rooms based on Questionnaire Survey of Experts and Analysis on Conditions of Isolation Room Use

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Won, An-Na; Song, Hae-Eun; Yang, Young-Kwon; Park, Jin-Chul; Hwang, Jung-Ha

2017-07-01

After the outbreak of the MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) epidemic, issues were raised regarding response capabilities of medical institutions, including the lack of isolation rooms at hospitals. Since then, the government of Korea has been revising regulations to enforce medical laws in order to expand the operation of isolation rooms and to strengthen standards regarding their mandatory installation at hospitals. Among general and tertiary hospitals in Korea, a total of 159 are estimated to be required to install isolation rooms to meet minimum standards. For the purpose of contributing to hospital construction plans in the future, this study conducted a questionnaire survey of experts and analysed the environment and devices necessary in isolation rooms, to determine their appropriate minimum size to treat patients. The result of the analysis is as follows: First, isolation rooms at hospitals are required to have a minimum 3,300mm minor axis and a minimum 5,000mm major axis for the isolation room itself, and a minimum 1,800mm minor axis for the antechamber where personal protective equipment is donned and removed. Second, the 15 ㎡-or-larger standard for the floor area of isolation rooms will have to be reviewed and standards for the minimum width of isolation rooms will have to be established.

Alzheimer Classification Using a Minimum Spanning Tree of High-Order Functional Network on fMRI Dataset

PubMed Central

Guo, Hao; Liu, Lei; Chen, Junjie; Xu, Yong; Jie, Xiang

2017-01-01

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is one of the most useful methods to generate functional connectivity networks of the brain. However, conventional network generation methods ignore dynamic changes of functional connectivity between brain regions. Previous studies proposed constructing high-order functional connectivity networks that consider the time-varying characteristics of functional connectivity, and a clustering method was performed to decrease computational cost. However, random selection of the initial clustering centers and the number of clusters negatively affected classification accuracy, and the network lost neurological interpretability. Here we propose a novel method that introduces the minimum spanning tree method to high-order functional connectivity networks. As an unbiased method, the minimum spanning tree simplifies high-order network structure while preserving its core framework. The dynamic characteristics of time series are not lost with this approach, and the neurological interpretation of the network is guaranteed. Simultaneously, we propose a multi-parameter optimization framework that involves extracting discriminative features from the minimum spanning tree high-order functional connectivity networks. Compared with the conventional methods, our resting-state fMRI classification method based on minimum spanning tree high-order functional connectivity networks greatly improved the diagnostic accuracy for Alzheimer's disease. PMID:29249926

Oxygen enhanced switching to combustion of lower rank fuels

DOEpatents

Kobayashi, Hisashi; Bool, III, Lawrence E.; Wu, Kuang Tsai

2004-03-02

A furnace that combusts fuel, such as coal, of a given minimum energy content to obtain a stated minimum amount of energy per unit of time is enabled to combust fuel having a lower energy content, while still obtaining at least the stated minimum energy generation rate, by replacing a small amount of the combustion air fed to the furnace by oxygen. The replacement of oxygen for combustion air also provides reduction in the generation of NOx.

Barriers and dispersal surfaces in minimum-time interception

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rajan, N.; Ardema, M. D.

1982-01-01

Minimum time interception of a target moving in a horizontal plane is analyzed as a one-player differential game. Dispersal points and points on the barrier are located for a class of pursuit evasion and interception problems. These points are determined by constructing cross sections of the isochrones and hence obtaining the barrier, dispersal, and control level surfaces. The game solution maps the controls as a function of the state within the capture region.

Theoretical study of network design methodologies for the aerial relay system. [energy consumption and air traffic control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rivera, J. M.; Simpson, R. W.

1980-01-01

The aerial relay system network design problem is discussed. A generalized branch and bound based algorithm is developed which can consider a variety of optimization criteria, such as minimum passenger travel time and minimum liner and feeder operating costs. The algorithm, although efficient, is basically useful for small size networks, due to its nature of exponentially increasing computation time with the number of variables.

Analysis of temperature trends in Northern Serbia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tosic, Ivana; Gavrilov, Milivoj; Unkašević, Miroslava; Marković, Slobodan; Petrović, Predrag

2017-04-01

An analysis of air temperature trends in Northern Serbia for the annual and seasonal time series is performed for two periods: 1949-2013 and 1979-2013. Three data sets of surface air temperatures: monthly mean temperatures, monthly maximum temperatures, and monthly minimum temperatures are analyzed at 9 stations that have altitudes varying between 75 m and 102 m. Monthly mean temperatures are obtained as the average of the daily mean temperatures, while monthly maximum (minimum) temperatures are the maximum (minimum) values of daily temperatures in corresponding month. Positive trends were found in 29 out of 30 time series, and the negative trend was found only in winter during the period 1979-2013. Applying the Mann-Kendall test, significant positive trends were found in 15 series; 7 in the period 1949-2013 and 8 in the period 1979-2013; and no significant trend was found in 15 series. Significant positive trends are dominated during the year, spring, and summer, where it was found in 14 out of 18 cases. Significant positive trends were found 7, 5, and 3 times in mean, maximum and minimum temperatures, respectively. It was found that the positive temperature trends are dominant in Northern Serbia.

Minimum Variance Distortionless Response Beamformer with Enhanced Nulling Level Control via Dynamic Mutated Artificial Immune System

PubMed Central

Kiong, Tiong Sieh; Salem, S. Balasem; Paw, Johnny Koh Siaw; Sankar, K. Prajindra

2014-01-01

In smart antenna applications, the adaptive beamforming technique is used to cancel interfering signals (placing nulls) and produce or steer a strong beam toward the target signal according to the calculated weight vectors. Minimum variance distortionless response (MVDR) beamforming is capable of determining the weight vectors for beam steering; however, its nulling level on the interference sources remains unsatisfactory. Beamforming can be considered as an optimization problem, such that optimal weight vector should be obtained through computation. Hence, in this paper, a new dynamic mutated artificial immune system (DM-AIS) is proposed to enhance MVDR beamforming for controlling the null steering of interference and increase the signal to interference noise ratio (SINR) for wanted signals. PMID:25003136

Minimum variance distortionless response beamformer with enhanced nulling level control via dynamic mutated artificial immune system.

PubMed

Kiong, Tiong Sieh; Salem, S Balasem; Paw, Johnny Koh Siaw; Sankar, K Prajindra; Darzi, Soodabeh

2014-01-01

In smart antenna applications, the adaptive beamforming technique is used to cancel interfering signals (placing nulls) and produce or steer a strong beam toward the target signal according to the calculated weight vectors. Minimum variance distortionless response (MVDR) beamforming is capable of determining the weight vectors for beam steering; however, its nulling level on the interference sources remains unsatisfactory. Beamforming can be considered as an optimization problem, such that optimal weight vector should be obtained through computation. Hence, in this paper, a new dynamic mutated artificial immune system (DM-AIS) is proposed to enhance MVDR beamforming for controlling the null steering of interference and increase the signal to interference noise ratio (SINR) for wanted signals.

A new Method for Determining the Interplanetary Current-Sheet Local Orientation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Blanco, J. J.; Rodríguez-pacheco, J.; Sequeiros, J.

2003-03-01

In this work we have developed a new method for determining the interplanetary current sheet local parameters. The method, called `HYTARO' (from Hyperbolic Tangent Rotation), is based on a modified Harris magnetic field. This method has been applied to a pool of 57 events, all of them recorded during solar minimum conditions. The model performance has been tested by comparing both, its outputs and noise response, with these of the `classic MVM' (from Minimum Variance Method). The results suggest that, despite the fact that in many cases they behave in a similar way, there are specific crossing conditions that produce an erroneous MVM response. Moreover, our method shows a lower noise level sensitivity than that of MVM.

A step-up test procedure to find the minimum effective dose.

PubMed

Wang, Weizhen; Peng, Jianan

2015-01-01

It is of great interest to find the minimum effective dose (MED) in dose-response studies. A sequence of decreasing null hypotheses to find the MED is formulated under the assumption of nondecreasing dose response means. A step-up multiple test procedure that controls the familywise error rate (FWER) is constructed based on the maximum likelihood estimators for the monotone normal means. When the MED is equal to one, the proposed test is uniformly more powerful than Hsu and Berger's test (1999). Also, a simulation study shows a substantial power improvement for the proposed test over four competitors. Three R-codes are provided in Supplemental Materials for this article. Go to the publishers online edition of Journal of Biopharmaceutical Statistics to view the files.

results obtained by the application of two different methods for the calculation of optimal coplanar orbital maneuvers with time limit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rocco, Emr; Prado, Afbap; Souza, Mlos

In this work, the problem of bi-impulsive orbital transfers between coplanar elliptical orbits with minimum fuel consumption but with a time limit for this transfer is studied. As a first method, the equations presented by Lawden (1993) were used. Those equations furnishes the optimal transfer orbit with fixed time for this transfer, between two elliptical coplanar orbits considering fixed terminal points. The method was adapted to cases with free terminal points and those equations was solved to develop a software for orbital maneuvers. As a second method, the equations presented by Eckel and Vinh (1984) were used, those equations provide the transfer orbit between non-coplanar elliptical orbits with minimum fuel and fixed time transfer, or minimum time transfer for a prescribed fuel consumption, considering free terminal points. But in this work only the problem with fixed time transfer was considered, the case of minimum time for a prescribed fuel consumption was already studied in Rocco et al. (2000). Then, the method was modified to consider cases of coplanar orbital transfer, and develop a software for orbital maneuvers. Therefore, two software that solve the same problem using different methods were developed. The first method, presented by Lawden, uses the primer vector theory. The second method, presented by Eckel and Vinh, uses the ordinary theory of maxima and minima. So, to test the methods we choose the same terminal orbits and the same time as input. We could verify that we didn't obtain exactly the same result. In this work, that is an extension of Rocco et al. (2002), these differences in the results are explored with objective of determining the reason of the occurrence of these differences and which modifications should be done to eliminate them.

A model for discriminating reinforcers in time and space.

PubMed

Cowie, Sarah; Davison, Michael; Elliffe, Douglas

2016-06-01

Both the response-reinforcer and stimulus-reinforcer relation are important in discrimination learning; differential responding requires a minimum of two discriminably-different stimuli and two discriminably-different associated contingencies of reinforcement. When elapsed time is a discriminative stimulus for the likely availability of a reinforcer, choice over time may be modeled by an extension of the Davison and Nevin (1999) model that assumes that local choice strictly matches the effective local reinforcer ratio. The effective local reinforcer ratio may differ from the obtained local reinforcer ratio for two reasons: Because the animal inaccurately estimates times associated with obtained reinforcers, and thus incorrectly discriminates the stimulus-reinforcer relation across time; and because of error in discriminating the response-reinforcer relation. In choice-based timing tasks, the two responses are usually highly discriminable, and so the larger contributor to differences between the effective and obtained reinforcer ratio is error in discriminating the stimulus-reinforcer relation. Such error may be modeled either by redistributing the numbers of reinforcers obtained at each time across surrounding times, or by redistributing the ratio of reinforcers obtained at each time in the same way. We assessed the extent to which these two approaches to modeling discrimination of the stimulus-reinforcer relation could account for choice in a range of temporal-discrimination procedures. The version of the model that redistributed numbers of reinforcers accounted for more variance in the data. Further, this version provides an explanation for shifts in the point of subjective equality that occur as a result of changes in the local reinforcer rate. The inclusion of a parameter reflecting error in discriminating the response-reinforcer relation enhanced the ability of each version of the model to describe data. The ability of this class of model to account for a range of data suggests that timing, like other conditional discriminations, is choice under the joint discriminative control of elapsed time and differential reinforcement. Understanding the role of differential reinforcement is therefore critical to understanding control by elapsed time. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The minimum record time for PIV measurement in a vessel agitated by a Rushton turbine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Šulc, Radek; Ditl, Pavel; Fořt, Ivan; Jašíkova, Darina; Kotek, Michal; Kopecký, Václav; Kysela, Bohuš

In PIV studies published in the literature focusing on the investigation of the flow field in an agitated vessel the record time is ranging from the tenths and the units of seconds. The aim of this work was to determine minimum record time for PIV measurement in a vessel agitated by a Rushton turbine that is necessary to obtain relevant results of velocity field. The velocity fields were measured in a fully baffled cylindrical flat bottom vessel 400 mm in inner diameter agitated by a Rushton turbine 133 mm in diameter using 2-D Time Resolved Particle Image Velocimetry in the impeller Reynolds number range from 50 000 to 189 000. This Re range secures the fully-developed turbulent flow of agitated liquid. Three liquids of different viscosities were used as the agitated liquid. On the basis of the analysis of the radial and axial components of the mean- and fluctuation velocities measured outside the impeller region it was found that dimensionless minimum record time is independent of impeller Reynolds number and is equalled N.tRmin = 103 ± 19.

Use of a mobile device by nursing home residents for long-term care comprehensive geriatric self-assessment: a feasibility study.

PubMed

Huang, Fanpin; Chang, Polun; Hou, I-Ching; Tu, Ming-Hsiang; Lan, Chung-Fu

2015-01-01

Long-term-care comprehensive geriatric assessments, such as the Minimum Data Set 3.0, are used to evaluate the clinical, psychological, and personal status of residents in long-term-care nursing facilities. Nursing staff conducts assessment interviews, thereby increasing the workload of nurses and the cost of patient care. This study explored the ability of nursing home residents to use two different mobile devices for a geriatric self-assessment. Study participants were residents of long-term-care nursing homes. A modified Minimum Data Set 3.0 was converted to a format for use with a 6-inch mobile pad and a 3.7-inch mobile smartphone. The survey completion rate and the response time were measured. A Technology Assessment Model questionnaire analyzed the participants' experience. All participants were able to use a 6-inch pad, with an average completion rate of 92.9% and an average time for completion of 21 minutes. Only 20% of the participants could complete the assessment with the 3.7-inch smartphone. The participants found the 6-inch pad easier to use than the 3.7-inch smartphone. This exploratory study suggests that nursing home residents are able to use a mobile device to perform a geriatric self-assessment and delineates the importance of the ergonomics of the device.

A solar cycle dependence of nonlinearity in magnetospheric activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Jay R.; Wing, Simon

2005-04-01

The nonlinear dependencies inherent to the historical Kp data stream (1932-2003) are examined using mutual information and cumulant-based cost as discriminating statistics. The discriminating statistics are compared with surrogate data streams that are constructed using the corrected amplitude adjustment Fourier transform (CAAFT) method and capture the linear properties of the original Kp data. Differences are regularly seen in the discriminating statistics a few years prior to solar minima, while no differences are apparent at the time of solar maxima. These results suggest that the dynamics of the magnetosphere tend to be more linear at solar maximum than at solar minimum. The strong nonlinear dependencies tend to peak on a timescale around 40-50 hours and are statistically significant up to 1 week. Because the solar wind driver variables, VBs, and dynamical pressure exhibit a much shorter decorrelation time for nonlinearities, the results seem to indicate that the nonlinearity is related to internal magnetospheric dynamics. Moreover, the timescales for the nonlinearity seem to be on the same order as that for storm/ring current relaxation. We suggest that the strong solar wind driving that occurs around solar maximum dominates the magnetospheric dynamics, suppressing the internal magnetospheric nonlinearity. On the other hand, in the descending phase of the solar cycle just prior to solar minimum, when magnetospheric activity is weaker, the dynamics exhibit a significant nonlinear internal magnetospheric response that may be related to increased solar wind speed.

The responsiveness of Bactrocera jarvisi (Diptera: Tephritidae) to two naturally occurring phenylbutaonids, zingerone and raspberry ketone.

PubMed

Wee, Suk-Ling; Peek, Thelma; Clarke, Anthony R

2018-06-08

The males of different species of Bactrocera and Zeugodacus fruit flies are commonly attracted to plant-derived phenylpropanoids (e.g. methyl eugenol (ME)) or phenylbutanoids (e.g. raspberry ketone (RK)) but almost never to both. However, one particular plant-derived phenylbutanoid, zingerone (ZN), which possesses an intermediate chemical structure between ME and RK, weakly attracts both ME- and RK-responding fruit fly species. Bactrocera jarvisi, an Australian fruit fly species, is weakly attracted to cue lure (an analogue of RK) but strongly attracted to ZN. Here, we investigated the minimum olfactory threshold and optimum sensitivity of B. jarvisi males to ZN and RK as a function of dose, time and sexual maturation. Our results show that B. jarvisi males had a marked preferential response to ZN, with a much lower olfactory threshold and faster response time to ZN than RK. Probit analysis demonstrated that ZN was at least >1600× more potent than RK as a male attractant to B. jarvisi. Although fruit fly male attraction to the phytochemicals is generally associated with sexual maturity, in B. jarvisi immature males were also attracted to ZN. Our results suggest that B. jarvisi males have a fine-tuned olfactory response to ZN, which appears to play a central role in the chemical ecology of this species. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Climatic variability leads to later seasonal flowering of Floridian plants.

PubMed

Von Holle, Betsy; Wei, Yun; Nickerson, David

2010-07-21

Understanding species responses to global change will help predict shifts in species distributions as well as aid in conservation. Changes in the timing of seasonal activities of organisms over time may be the most responsive and easily observable indicator of environmental changes associated with global climate change. It is unknown how global climate change will affect species distributions and developmental events in subtropical ecosystems or if climate change will differentially favor nonnative species. Contrary to previously observed trends for earlier flowering onset of plant species with increasing spring temperatures from mid and higher latitudes, we document a trend for delayed seasonal flowering among plants in Florida. Additionally, there were few differences in reproductive responses by native and nonnative species to climatic changes. We argue that plants in Florida have different reproductive cues than those from more northern climates. With global change, minimum temperatures have become more variable within the temperate-subtropical zone that occurs across the peninsula and this variation is strongly associated with delayed flowering among Florida plants. Our data suggest that climate change varies by region and season and is not a simple case of species responding to consistently increasing temperatures across the region. Research on climate change impacts need to be extended outside of the heavily studied higher latitudes to include subtropical and tropical systems in order to properly understand the complexity of regional and seasonal differences of climate change on species responses.

Minimizing the area required for time constants in integrated circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lyons, J. C.

1972-01-01

When a medium- or large-scale integrated circuit is designed, efforts are usually made to avoid the use of resistor-capacitor time constant generators. The capacitor needed for this circuit usually takes up more surface area on the chip than several resistors and transistors. When the use of this network is unavoidable, the designer usually makes an effort to see that the choice of resistor and capacitor combinations is such that a minimum amount of surface area is consumed. The optimum ratio of resistance to capacitance that will result in this minimum area is equal to the ratio of resistance to capacitance which may be obtained from a unit of surface area for the particular process being used. The minimum area required is a function of the square root of the reciprocal of the products of the resistance and capacitance per unit area. This minimum occurs when the area required by the resistor is equal to the area required by the capacitor.

Is the minimum enough? Affordability of a nutritious diet for minimum wage earners in Nova Scotia (2002-2012).

PubMed

Newell, Felicia D; Williams, Patricia L; Watt, Cynthia G

2014-05-09

This paper aims to assess the affordability of a nutritious diet for households earning minimum wage in Nova Scotia (NS) from 2002 to 2012 using an economic simulation that includes food costing and secondary data. The cost of the National Nutritious Food Basket (NNFB) was assessed with a stratified, random sample of grocery stores in NS during six time periods: 2002, 2004/2005, 2007, 2008, 2010 and 2012. The NNFB's cost was factored into affordability scenarios for three different household types relying on minimum wage earnings: a household of four; a lone mother with three children; and a lone man. Essential monthly living expenses were deducted from monthly net incomes using methods that were standardized from 2002 to 2012 to determine whether adequate funds remained to purchase a basic nutritious diet across the six time periods. A 79% increase to the minimum wage in NS has resulted in a decrease in the potential deficit faced by each household scenario in the period examined. However, the household of four and the lone mother with three children would still face monthly deficits ($44.89 and $496.77, respectively, in 2012) if they were to purchase a nutritiously sufficient diet. As a social determinant of health, risk of food insecurity is a critical public health issue for low wage earners. While it is essential to increase the minimum wage in the short term, adequately addressing income adequacy in NS and elsewhere requires a shift in thinking from a focus on minimum wage towards more comprehensive policies ensuring an adequate livable income for everyone.

Studying the start of the Maunder Minimum to understand the current situation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neuhäuser, Ralph; Neuhäuser, Dagmar L.

2016-04-01

To investigate whether we now enter a Maunder-like grand minimum, we have to compare the current situation with the time around the start of the Maunder minimum. Sunspot observations in the 1610s are of particular importance and relevance, because they are shortly before the start of the Maunder Grand Minimum. While the Maunder Minimum it is usually dated from 1645 to 1715, Vaquero & Trigo (2015) argue that what they call the "Extended Maunder Minimum" would have started in 1618 during or around a Schwabe cycle minimum around that time. We have therefore studied the sunspot record of that time in detail. Hoyt & Schatten (1998) compiled for all known telescopic observers a list of their observations; recent solar activity studies for the past four centuries are based on their compilation. In addition to 12 observers listed by Hoyt & Schatten (1998) for the 1610s, we list six more observers with datable spot observations. Furthermore, while Hoyt & Schatten (1998) argue that Simon Marius would have observed from mid 1617 to the end of 1618 almost every day, but would have never seen a spot, we can show with the original reports by Marius that he observed from Aug 1611 to spring 1619 with a lot of sunspot detections. Similar, while Hoyt & Schatten (1998) argue that Giovanni Riccioli would have observed on almost every day in 1618, but would have never seen a spot, he did not report any own observations at all that year, but quoted Argoli for that there were no spots during the periods with comets in 1618. The data base by Hoyt & Schatten (1998) has several more errors in the 1610s, as we show also for the observations by Harriot, Scheiner, Malapert, Saxonius, and Tarde. We also compare drawings from Jungius with the observations by Harriot, Galilei, and Marius. In contrast to what is specified in Hoyt & Schatten (1998), after Harriot, the two Fabricius (father and son), Scheiner and Cysat, Marius and Schmidnerus are among the earliest datable telescopic sunspot observers (1611 Aug 3, Julian). It is very important to go back to the original drawings and observational reports (written often in Latin or German). The active day fractions was high from 1611 to 1616 (1.0 to 0.9), but then dropped to much lower values 1617 to 1620. Sunspots records by Malapert from 1618 to 1621 show that the last low-latitude spot was seen in Dec 1620, while the first high-latitude spots were noticed in June and Oct 1620 (we show his drawings), so that the turnover from one Schwabe cycle to the next (minimum) took place around that time, also seen in longer periods without naked-eye and telescopic spots nor any likely true aurorae. Did the Maunder Minimum start with or right after this Schwabe cycle minimum in the second half of 1620 or one or two cycles later? We will then compare the start of the Maunder minimum with the current situation.

5 CFR 251.102 - Coverage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... ORGANIZATIONS REPRESENTING FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS General Provisions § 251.102 Coverage. To... whose constitution and bylaws indicate that it subscribes to minimum standards of fiscal responsibility...

5 CFR 251.102 - Coverage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... ORGANIZATIONS REPRESENTING FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS General Provisions § 251.102 Coverage. To... whose constitution and bylaws indicate that it subscribes to minimum standards of fiscal responsibility...

5 CFR 251.102 - Coverage.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... ORGANIZATIONS REPRESENTING FEDERAL EMPLOYEES AND OTHER ORGANIZATIONS General Provisions § 251.102 Coverage. To... whose constitution and bylaws indicate that it subscribes to minimum standards of fiscal responsibility...

Engineering risk reduction in satellite programs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dean, E. S., Jr.

1979-01-01

Methods developed in planning and executing system safety engineering programs for Lockheed satellite integration contracts are presented. These procedures establish the applicable safety design criteria, document design compliance and assess the residual risks where non-compliant design is proposed, and provide for hazard analysis of system level test, handling and launch preparations. Operations hazard analysis identifies product protection and product liability hazards prior to the preparation of operational procedures and provides safety requirements for inclusion in them. The method developed for documenting all residual hazards for the attention of program management assures an acceptable minimum level of risk prior to program deployment. The results are significant for persons responsible for managing or engineering the deployment and production of complex high cost equipment under current product liability law and cost/time constraints, have a responsibility to minimize the possibility of an accident, and should have documentation to provide a defense in a product liability suit.

Responses to the advanced notice of proposed rulemaking EPA published on June 6, 1996 regarding changes to the EPA allowance auctions and elimination of the direct sale

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

Critchfield, L.R.

1997-12-31

On June 6, 1996, EPA`s Acid Rain Program published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) in the Federal Register seeking comment on: (1) whether to change the design of the annual sulfur dioxide (SO{sub 2}) allowance auctions; (2) whether to change the timing of the allowance auctions; (3) whether to change the requirement that the minimum price of offered allowances must be in whole dollars, and (4) whether EPA should propose the ability to submit allowance transfers electronically. EPA also published on that day a proposed and direct final rule on whether to eliminate the direct sale. This papermore » documents the issues addressed in the ANPRM, the comments EPA received, and EPA`s responses to those comments. EPA received comments from 14 separate commenters.« less

Evidence of Lunar Phase Influence on Global Surface Air Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anyamba, Ebby; Susskind, Joel

2000-01-01

Intraseasonal oscillations appearing in a newly available 20-year record of satellite-derived surface air temperature are composited with respect to the lunar phase. Polar regions exhibit strong lunar phase modulation with higher temperatures occurs near full moon and lower temperatures at new moon, in agreement with previous studies. The polar response to the apparent lunar forcing is shown to be most robust in the winter months when solar influence is minimum. In addition, the response appears to be influenced by ENSO events. The highest mean temperature range between full moon and new moon in the polar region between 60 deg and 90 deg latitude was recorded in 1983, 1986/87, and 1990/91. Although the largest lunar phase signal is in the polar regions, there is a tendency for meridional equatorward progression of anomalies in both hemispheres so that the warning in the tropics occurs at the time of the new moon.

Three-Axis Time-Optimal Attitude Maneuvers of a Rigid-Body

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xijing; Li, Jisheng

With the development trends for modern satellites towards macro-scale and micro-scale, new demands are requested for its attitude adjustment. Precise pointing control and rapid maneuvering capabilities have long been part of many space missions. While the development of computer technology enables new optimal algorithms being used continuously, a powerful tool for solving problem is provided. Many papers about attitude adjustment have been published, the configurations of the spacecraft are considered rigid body with flexible parts or gyrostate-type systems. The object function always include minimum time or minimum fuel. During earlier satellite missions, the attitude acquisition was achieved by using the momentum ex change devices, performed by a sequential single-axis slewing strategy. Recently, the simultaneous three-axis minimum-time maneuver(reorientation) problems have been studied by many researchers. It is important to research the minimum-time maneuver of a rigid spacecraft within onboard power limits, because of potential space application such as surveying multiple targets in space and academic value. The minimum-time maneuver of a rigid spacecraft is a basic problem because the solutions for maneuvering flexible spacecraft are based on the solution to the rigid body slew problem. A new method for the open-loop solution for a rigid spacecraft maneuver is presented. Having neglected all perturbation torque, the necessary conditions of spacecraft from one state to another state can be determined. There is difference between single-axis with multi-axis. For single- axis analytical solution is possible and the switching line passing through the state-space origin belongs to parabolic. For multi-axis, it is impossible to get analytical solution due to the dynamic coupling between the axes and must be solved numerically. Proved by modern research, Euler axis rotations are quasi-time-optimal in general. On the basis of minimum value principles, a research for reorienting an inertial syrnmetric spacecraft with time cost function from an initial state of rest to a final state of rest is deduced. And the solution to it is stated below: Firstly, the essential condition for solving the problem is deduced with the minimum value principle. The necessary conditions for optimality yield a two point boundary-value problem (TPBVP), which, when solved, produces the control history that minimize time performance index. In the nonsingular control, the solution is the' bang-bang maneuver. The control profile is characterized by Saturated controls for the entire maneuver. The singular control maybe existed. It is only singular in mathematics. According to physical principle, the bigger the mode of the control torque is, the shorter the time is. So saturated controls are used in singular control. Secondly, the control parameters are always in maximum, so the key problem is to determine switch point thus original problem is changed to find the changing time. By the use of adjusting the switch on/off time, the genetic algorithm, which is a new robust method is optimized to determine the switch features without the gyroscopic coupling. There is improvement upon the traditional GA in this research. The homotopy method to find the nonlinear algebra is based on rigorous topology continuum theory. Based on the idea of the homotopy, the relaxation parameters are introduced, and the switch point is figured out with simulated annealing. Computer simulation results using a rigid body show that the new method is feasible and efficient. A practical method of computing approximate solutions to the time-optimal control- switch times for rigid body reorientation has been developed.

Minimum airflow reset of single-duct VAV terminal boxes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cho, Young-Hum

Single duct Variable Air Volume (VAV) systems are currently the most widely used type of HVAC system in the United States. When installing such a system, it is critical to determine the minimum airflow set point of the terminal box, as an optimally selected set point will improve the level of thermal comfort and indoor air quality (IAQ) while at the same time lower overall energy costs. In principle, this minimum rate should be calculated according to the minimum ventilation requirement based on ASHRAE standard 62.1 and maximum heating load of the zone. Several factors must be carefully considered when calculating this minimum rate. Terminal boxes with conventional control sequences may result in occupant discomfort and energy waste. If the minimum rate of airflow is set too high, the AHUs will consume excess fan power, and the terminal boxes may cause significant simultaneous room heating and cooling. At the same time, a rate that is too low will result in poor air circulation and indoor air quality in the air-conditioned space. Currently, many scholars are investigating how to change the algorithm of the advanced VAV terminal box controller without retrofitting. Some of these controllers have been found to effectively improve thermal comfort, indoor air quality, and energy efficiency. However, minimum airflow set points have not yet been identified, nor has controller performance been verified in confirmed studies. In this study, control algorithms were developed that automatically identify and reset terminal box minimum airflow set points, thereby improving indoor air quality and thermal comfort levels, and reducing the overall rate of energy consumption. A theoretical analysis of the optimal minimum airflow and discharge air temperature was performed to identify the potential energy benefits of resetting the terminal box minimum airflow set points. Applicable control algorithms for calculating the ideal values for the minimum airflow reset were developed and applied to actual systems for performance validation. The results of the theoretical analysis, numeric simulations, and experiments show that the optimal control algorithms can automatically identify the minimum rate of heating airflow under actual working conditions. Improved control helps to stabilize room air temperatures. The vertical difference in the room air temperature was lower than the comfort value. Measurements of room CO2 levels indicate that when the minimum airflow set point was reduced it did not adversely affect the indoor air quality. According to the measured energy results, optimal control algorithms give a lower rate of reheating energy consumption than conventional controls.

Warning Alert HITL Experiment Results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Monk, Kevin J.; Ferm, Lisa; Roberts, Zach

2018-01-01

Minimum Operational Performance Standards (MOPS) are being developed to support the integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) in the National Airspace (NAS). Input from subject matter experts and multiple research studies have informed display requirements for Detect-and-Avoid (DAA) systems aimed at supporting timely and appropriate pilot responses to collision hazards. Phase 1 DAA MOPS alerting is designed to inform pilots if an avoidance maneuver is necessary; the two highest alert levels - caution and warning - indicate how soon pilot action is required and whether there is adequate time to coordinate with the air traffic controller (ATC). Additional empirical support is needed to clarify the extent to which warning-level alerting impacts DAA task performance. The present study explores the differential effects of the auditory and visual cues provided by the DAA Warning alert, and performance implications compared to caution-only alerting are discussed.

CLIP-COSY: A Clean In-Phase Experiment for the Rapid Acquisition of COSY-type Correlations.

PubMed

Koos, Martin R M; Kummerlöwe, Grit; Kaltschnee, Lukas; Thiele, Christina M; Luy, Burkhard

2016-06-27

The COSY experiment is an essential homonuclear 2D NMR experiment for the assignment of resonances. Its multiplet line shape, however, is often overly complicated, potentially leads to signal intensity losses, and is responsible for long minimum overall acquisition times. Herein, we present CLIP-COSY, a COSY-type experiment yielding clean in-phase peaks. It can be recorded within a few minutes and benefits from enhanced signal intensities for most cross-peaks. In combination with non-uniform sampling, the experiment times can be further reduced, and the in-phase multiplets enable the application of modern homonuclear decoupling techniques in both dimensions. As antiphase cancelations are avoided, CLIP-COSY can also be applied to macromolecules and other samples with broadened lines. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

[Advanced Development for Space Robotics With Emphasis on Fault Tolerance Technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tesar, Delbert

1997-01-01

This report describes work developing fault tolerant redundant robotic architectures and adaptive control strategies for robotic manipulator systems which can dynamically accommodate drastic robot manipulator mechanism, sensor or control failures and maintain stable end-point trajectory control with minimum disturbance. Kinematic designs of redundant, modular, reconfigurable arms for fault tolerance were pursued at a fundamental level. The approach developed robotic testbeds to evaluate disturbance responses of fault tolerant concepts in robotic mechanisms and controllers. The development was implemented in various fault tolerant mechanism testbeds including duality in the joint servo motor modules, parallel and serial structural architectures, and dual arms. All have real-time adaptive controller technologies to react to mechanism or controller disturbances (failures) to perform real-time reconfiguration to continue the task operations. The developments fall into three main areas: hardware, software, and theoretical.

The Evolution of Universe as Splitting of the ``Non Existing'' and Space-Time Expansion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nassikas, A. A.

2010-09-01

The purpose of this paper is to show that the creation of Universe can be regarded as a splitting process of the ``non existing'', ``where'' there is no space-time and that the expansion of Universe is due to the compatibility between the stochastic-quantum space-time created and the surrounding ``non existing''. In this way it is not required that space time should pre-exist in contrast, as it can be shown, to the Universe creation from vacuum theory. The present point of view can be derived on the basis of a Minimum Contradictions Physics according to which stochastic-quantum space-time is matter itself; there are (g)-mass and (em)-charge space-time which interact-communicate through photons [(g) or (em) particles with zero rest mass]. This point of view is compatible to the present knowledge of CERN and Fermi Lab experiments as well as to the neutron synthesis according to Rutherford, experimentally verified and theoretically explained through Hadronic Mechanics by R. M. Santilli. On the basis of the Minimum Contradictions Physics a quantum gravity formula is derived which implies either positive or negative gravitational acceleration; thus, bodies can be attracted while Universe can be expanded. Minimum Contradictions Physics, under certain simplifications, is compatible to Newton Mechanics, Relativity Theory and QM. This physics is compatible to language through which it is stated. On this basis the physical laws are the principles of language i.e.: the Classical Logic, the Sufficient Reason Principle the Communication Anterior-Posterior Axiom and the Claim for Minimum Contradictions; according to a theorem contradictions cannot be vanished.

Phase-shifting response to light in older adults

PubMed Central

Kim, Seong Jae; Benloucif, Susan; Reid, Kathryn Jean; Weintraub, Sandra; Kennedy, Nancy; Wolfe, Lisa F; Zee, Phyllis C

2014-01-01

Abstract Age-related changes in circadian rhythms may contribute to the sleep disruption observed in older adults. A reduction in responsiveness to photic stimuli in the circadian timing system has been hypothesized as a possible reason for the advanced circadian phase in older adults. This project compared phase-shifting responses to 2 h of broad-spectrum white light at moderate and high intensities in younger and older adults. Subjects included 29 healthy young (25.1 ± 4.1 years; male to female ratio: 8: 21) and 16 healthy older (66.5 ± 6.0 years; male to female ratio: 5: 11) subjects, who participated in two 4-night and 3-day laboratory stays, separated by at least 3 weeks. Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three different time-points, 8 h before (−8), 3 h before (−3) or 3 h after (+3) the core body temperature minimum (CBTmin) measured on the baseline night. For each condition, subjects were exposed in a randomized order to 2 h light pulses of two intensities (2000 lux and 8000 lux) during the two different laboratory stays. Phase shifts were analysed according to the time of melatonin midpoint on the nights before and after light exposure. Older subjects in this study showed an earlier baseline phase and lower amplitude of melatonin rhythm compared to younger subjects, but there was no evidence of age-related changes in the magnitude or direction of phase shifts of melatonin midpoint in response to 2 h of light at either 2000 lux or 8000 lux. These results indicate that the acute phase-shifting response to moderate- or high-intensity broad spectrum light is not significantly affected by age. PMID:24144880

Flow cells for bioanalytical and bioprocess applications with optimized dynamic response and flow characteristics

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

Lancaster, V.R.; Modlin, D.N.

1994-12-31

In this study, the authors present a method for design and characterization of flow cells developed for minimum flow volume and optimal dynamic response with a given central observation area. The dynamic response of a circular shaped dual ported flow cell was compared to that obtained from a flow cell whose optimized shape was determined using this method. In the optimized flow cell design, the flow rate at the nominal operating pressure increased by 50% whereas the flow cell volume was reduced by 70%. In addition, the dynamic response of the new flow cell was found to be 200% fastermore » than the circular flow cell. The fluid dynamic analysis included simple graphical techniques utilizing free stream vorticity functions and Hagen-Poiseuille relationships. The flow cell dynamic response was measured using a fluorescence detection system. The fluoresce in emission from a 400{micro}m spot located at the exit port was measured as a function of time after switching the input to the flow cell between fluorescent and non-fluorescent solutions. Analysis of results revealed the system could be reasonably characterized as a first order dynamic system. Although some evidence of second order behavior was also observed, it is reasonable to assume that a first order model will provide adequate predictive capability for many real world applications. Given a set of flow cell requirements, the methods presented in this study can be used to design and characterize flow cells with lower reagent consumption and reduced purging times. These improvements can be readily translated into reduced process times and/or lower usage of high cost reagents.« less

Launching lunar missions from Space Station Freedom

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Friedlander, Alan; Young, Archie

1990-01-01

The relative orbital motion of Space Station Freedom and the moon places practical constraints on the timing of launch/return transfer trajectories. This paper describes the timing characteristics as well as the Delta-V variations over a representative cycle of launch/return opportunities. On average, the minimum-Delta-V transfer opportunities occur at intervals of 9 days. However, there is a significant nonuniform variation in this timing interval, as well as the minimum stay time at the moon, over the short cycle (51 days) and the long cycle (18.6 years). The advantage of three-impulse transfers for extending the launch window is also described.

Surface microhardness of a resin composite exposed to a "first-generation" LED curing lamp, in vitro.

PubMed

Keogh, Pauraic; Ray, Noel J; Lynch, Christopher D; Burke, Francis M; Hannigan, Ailish

2004-12-01

This investigation determined the minimum exposure times consistent with optimised surface microhardness parameters for a commercial resin composite cured using a "first-generation" light-emitting diode activation lamp. Disk specimens were exposed and surface microhardness numbers measured at the top and bottom surfaces for elapsed times of 1 hour and 24 hours. Bottom/top microhardness number ratios were also calculated. Most microhardness data increased significantly over the elapsed time interval but microhardness ratios (bottom/top) were dependent on exposure time only. A minimum exposure of 40 secs is appropriate to optimise microhardness parameters for the combination of resin composite and lamp investigated.

Real-time trajectory optimization on parallel processors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Psiaki, Mark L.

1993-01-01

A parallel algorithm has been developed for rapidly solving trajectory optimization problems. The goal of the work has been to develop an algorithm that is suitable to do real-time, on-line optimal guidance through repeated solution of a trajectory optimization problem. The algorithm has been developed on an INTEL iPSC/860 message passing parallel processor. It uses a zero-order-hold discretization of a continuous-time problem and solves the resulting nonlinear programming problem using a custom-designed augmented Lagrangian nonlinear programming algorithm. The algorithm achieves parallelism of function, derivative, and search direction calculations through the principle of domain decomposition applied along the time axis. It has been encoded and tested on 3 example problems, the Goddard problem, the acceleration-limited, planar minimum-time to the origin problem, and a National Aerospace Plane minimum-fuel ascent guidance problem. Execution times as fast as 118 sec of wall clock time have been achieved for a 128-stage Goddard problem solved on 32 processors. A 32-stage minimum-time problem has been solved in 151 sec on 32 processors. A 32-stage National Aerospace Plane problem required 2 hours when solved on 32 processors. A speed-up factor of 7.2 has been achieved by using 32-nodes instead of 1-node to solve a 64-stage Goddard problem.

Thermal effects in photomask engineering and nano-thermometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chu, Dachen

Electron Beam Lithography (EBL) in photomask fabrication results in heating of the resist films. The local heating can change the chemical properties of resist, leading to placement errors. The heating induced error has been believed to be increasingly significant as the transistor minimum feature size approaches the sub 100 nm region. A Green's function approach has been developed to calculate four-dimensional temperature profiles in complex structures such as the multi-layer work-pieces being exposed in EBL. The model is being used to characterize different ebeam writing strategies to find the optimum. To provide the parameters for the model, two independent techniques have been employed: a thin film electrode method and a laser thermal-reflectance method. Unlike earlier results from polyimide films, no appreciable anisotropy was observed in thermal conductivities for the polymeric resists tested. Gold/nickel thin film thermocouples with minimum junction area of 100nm by 100nm were fabricated and calibrated. These thermocouple demonstrated a 400ns response time when heated by a 10ns laser pulse. Using these nano thermocouples, transient resist heating temperature profiles were for the first time measured at room temperature. Experimental results showed a good agreement with the Green's function model. We also observed a tradeoff in the scaling of thermocouple sensors. The smaller thermocouples may provide higher spatial and temporal resolutions but have poorer temperature resolution. In conclusion, we both modeled and measured the resist heating in EBL. In short exposure time (˜1us or less) the resist heating is nearly adiabatic, while in longer time the heating is dominated by substrate. Nano scale metallic thermocouples were explored and tradeoff was observed in dimension scaling.

12 CFR 1710.1 - Purpose.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... minimum standards with respect to the corporate governance practices and procedures of the Enterprises. ... AND SOUNDNESS CORPORATE GOVERNANCE General § 1710.1 Purpose. OFHEO is responsible under the Federal...

40 CFR Table 2a to Subpart Ce of... - Emissions Limits for Small HMIWI Which Meet the Criteria Under § 60.33e(b)(1)

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... time 1 Method for demonstrating compliance 2 Particulate matter mg/dscm (gr/dscf) 197 (0.086) 3-run average (1-hour minimum sample time per run) EPA Reference Method 5 of appendix A-3 of part 60, or EPA Reference Method 26A or 29 of appendix A-8 of part 60. Carbon monoxide ppmv 40 3-run average (1-hour minimum...

40 CFR Table 2b to Subpart Ce of... - Emissions Limits for Small HMIWI Which Meet the Criteria Under § 60.33e(b)(2)

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... time 1 Method for demonstrating compliance 2 Particulate matter mg/dscm (gr/dscf) 87 (0.038) 3-run average (1-hour minimum sample time per run) EPA Reference Method 5 of appendix A-3 of part 60, or EPA Reference Method 26A or 29 of appendix A-8 of part 60. Carbon monoxide ppmv 20 3-run average (1-hour minimum...

Wind Observations of Anomalous Cosmic Rays from Solar Minimum to Maximum

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reames, D. V.; McDonald, F. B.

2003-01-01

We report the first observation near Earth of the time behavior of anomalous cosmic-ray N, O, and Ne ions through the period surrounding the maximum of the solar cycle. These observations were made by the Wind spacecraft during the 1995-2002 period spanning times from solar minimum through solar maximum. Comparison of anomalous and galactic cosmic rays provides a powerful tool for the study of the physics of solar modulation throughout the solar cycle.

Multi-response optimization of Artemia hatching process using split-split-plot design based response surface methodology

PubMed Central

Arun, V. V.; Saharan, Neelam; Ramasubramanian, V.; Babitha Rani, A. M.; Salin, K. R.; Sontakke, Ravindra; Haridas, Harsha; Pazhayamadom, Deepak George

2017-01-01

A novel method, BBD-SSPD is proposed by the combination of Box-Behnken Design (BBD) and Split-Split Plot Design (SSPD) which would ensure minimum number of experimental runs, leading to economical utilization in multi- factorial experiments. The brine shrimp Artemia was tested to study the combined effects of photoperiod, temperature and salinity, each with three levels, on the hatching percentage and hatching time of their cysts. The BBD was employed to select 13 treatment combinations out of the 27 possible combinations that were grouped in an SSPD arrangement. Multiple responses were optimized simultaneously using Derringer’s desirability function. Photoperiod and temperature as well as temperature-salinity interaction were found to significantly affect the hatching percentage of Artemia, while the hatching time was significantly influenced by photoperiod and temperature, and their interaction. The optimum conditions were 23 h photoperiod, 29 °C temperature and 28 ppt salinity resulting in 96.8% hatching in 18.94 h. In order to verify the results obtained from BBD-SSPD experiment, the experiment was repeated preserving the same set up. Results of verification experiment were found to be similar to experiment originally conducted. It is expected that this method would be suitable to optimize the hatching process of animal eggs. PMID:28091611

The Wait Calculation: The Broader Consequences of the Minimum Time from Now to Interstellar Destinations and its Significance to the Space Economy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kennedy, A.

This paper summarises the wait calculation [1] of interstellar voyagers which finds the minimum time to destination given exponential growth in the rate of travel available to a civilisation. The minimum time obliges stellar system colonisers to consider departure times a significant risk factor in their voyages since a departure then to a destination will beat a departure made at any other time before or after. Generalised conclusions will be drawn about the significant impact that departures to interstellar destinations before, at, or after the minimum time will have on the economic potential of missions and on the inevitability of competition between them. There will be no international law operating in interstellar space and an ability to escape predatory actions en route, or at the destination, can only be done by precise calculations of departure times. Social and economic forces affecting the factors in the growth equation are discussed with reference to the probability of accelerating growth reaching the technological Singularity and strengthening the growth incentive trap. Islamic banking practices are discussed as a credible alternative to compounding interest bearing paper for funding the space economy in the long term and for supporting stakeholder investment in such long term mission development. The paper considers the essential free productivity of the Earth's biosphere and the capital accumulations made possible by land productivity are essential components to a viable long term space economy and that research into re-creating the costless productivity of the biosphere at a destination will determine both the mission's ultimate success and provide means of returns for stakeholders during the long build up. Conclusions of these arguments suggest that the Icarus project should ignore a robotic interstellar mission concept and develop a manned colonising mission from now.

Voltage scheduling for low power/energy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manzak, Ali

2001-07-01

Power considerations have become an increasingly dominant factor in the design of both portable and desk-top systems. An effective way to reduce power consumption is to lower the supply voltage since voltage is quadratically related to power. This dissertation considers the problem of lowering the supply voltage at (i) the system level and at (ii) the behavioral level. At the system level, the voltage of the variable voltage processor is dynamically changed with the work load. Processors with limited sized buffers as well as those with very large buffers are considered. Given the task arrival times, deadline times, execution times, periods and switching activities, task scheduling algorithms that minimize energy or peak power are developed for the processors equipped with very large buffers. A relation between the operating voltages of the tasks for minimum energy/power is determined using the Lagrange multiplier method, and an iterative algorithm that utilizes this relation is developed. Experimental results show that the voltage assignment obtained by the proposed algorithm is very close (0.1% error) to that of the optimal energy assignment and the optimal peak power (1% error) assignment. Next, on-line and off-fine minimum energy task scheduling algorithms are developed for processors with limited sized buffers. These algorithms have polynomial time complexity and present optimal (off-line) and close-to-optimal (on-line) solutions. A procedure to calculate the minimum buffer size given information about the size of the task (maximum, minimum), execution time (best case, worst case) and deadlines is also presented. At the behavioral level, resources operating at multiple voltages are used to minimize power while maintaining the throughput. Such a scheme has the advantage of allowing modules on the critical paths to be assigned to the highest voltage levels (thus meeting the required timing constraints) while allowing modules on non-critical paths to be assigned to lower voltage levels (thus reducing the power consumption). A polynomial time resource and latency constrained scheduling algorithm is developed to distribute the available slack among the nodes such that power consumption is minimum. The algorithm is iterative and utilizes the slack based on the Lagrange multiplier method.

Clinical COPD Questionnaire in patients with chronic respiratory disease.

PubMed

Canavan, Jane L; Dilaver, Deniz; Clark, Amy L; Jones, Sarah E; Nolan, Claire M; Kon, Samantha S C; Man, William D-C

2014-10-01

The Clinical Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Questionnaire (CCQ) is an easy to complete, health-related quality of life questionnaire which has been well-validated in COPD. The responsiveness of the CCQ in chronic respiratory disease patients other than COPD has not been previously described. The study aims were to determine if the CCQ in chronic respiratory disease correlates with other health related quality of life questionnaires, to assess the responsiveness of the CCQ to pulmonary rehabilitation and to determine the minimum important difference. The CCQ, COPD Assessment Test (CAT), the Chronic Respiratory Questionnaire (CRQ) and St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) were measured in 138 chronic respiratory disease patients completing pulmonary rehabilitation. Change in CCQ with pulmonary rehabilitation was correlated with change in the other questionnaires. The minimum important difference of the CCQ was calculated using distribution and anchor-based approaches. The CCQ, CAT, CRQ and SGRQ improved significantly with rehabilitation with effect sizes of -0.43, -0.26, 0.62, -0.37. Change in CCQ correlated significantly with CAT, CRQ and SGRQ (r = 0.53, -0.64, 0.30, all P < 0.0001). The minimum important difference was -0.42 at the population level and -0.4 at the individual level. The CCQ is responsive to pulmonary rehabilitation in chronic respiratory disease patients, with an MID estimated at -0.4 at the individual level. © 2014 Asian Pacific Society of Respirology.

Nosepiece respiration monitor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lavery, A. L.; Long, L. E.; Rice, N. E.

1968-01-01

Comfortable, inexpensive nosepiece respiration monitor produces rapid response signals to most conventional high impedance medical signal conditioners. The monitor measures respiration in a manner that produces a large signal with minimum delay.

12 CFR 925.20 - Stock purchase.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 12 Banks and Banking 7 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Stock purchase. 925.20 Section 925.20 Banks and... BANKS Stock Requirements § 925.20 Stock purchase. (a) Minimum stock purchase. Each member shall purchase... outstanding advances. (b) Timing of minimum stock purchase. (1) Within 60 calendar days after an institution...

75 FR 6151 - Minimum Capital

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-02-08

... (FHFA) is issuing and seeking comment on a proposed rule to effect a provision of the Federal Housing... imposing a temporary increase, for rescinding such an increase and a time frame for review of such an... longer justify the temporary level.\\8\\ To effect the higher temporary minimum capital level, the Director...

14 CFR 91.1053 - Crewmember experience.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...) AIR TRAFFIC AND GENERAL OPERATING RULES GENERAL OPERATING AND FLIGHT RULES Fractional Ownership... and ratings: (1) Total flight time for all pilots: (i) Pilot in command—A minimum of 1,500 hours. (ii) Second in command—A minimum of 500 hours. (2) For multi-engine turbine-powered fixed-wing and powered...

General Requirements and Minimum Standards.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

2003

This publication provides the General Requirements and Minimum Standards developed by the National Court Reporters Association's Council on Approved Student Education (CASE). They are the same for all court reporter education programs, whether an institution is applying for approval for the first time or for a new grant of approval. The first…

Reply to Comment on ‘The cancer Warburg effect may be a testable example of the minimum entropy production rate principle’

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sabater, Bartolomé; Marín, Dolores

2018-03-01

The minimum rate principle is applied to the chemical reaction in a steady-state open cell system where, under constant supply of the glucose precursor, reference to time or to glucose consumption does not affect the conclusions.

Time-Series Evidence of the Effect of the Minimum Wage on Youth Employment and Unemployment.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Charles; And Others

1983-01-01

The study finds that a 10 percent increase in the federal minimum wage (or the coverage rate) would reduce teenage (16-19) employment by about one percent, which is at the lower end of the range of estimates from previous studies. (Author/SSH)

Dissociation of end systole from end ejection in patients with long-term mitral regurgitation.

PubMed

Brickner, M E; Starling, M R

1990-04-01

To determine whether left ventricular (LV) end systole and end ejection uncouple in patients with long-term mitral regurgitation, 59 patients (22 control patients with atypical chest pain, 21 patients with aortic regurgitation, and 16 patients with mitral regurgitation) were studied with micromanometer LV catheters and radionuclide angiograms. End systole was defined as the time of occurrence (Tmax) of the maximum time-varying elastance (Emax), and end ejection was defined as the time of occurrence of minimum ventricular volume (minV) and zero systolic flow as approximated by the aortic dicrotic notch (Aodi). The temporal relation between end systole and end ejection in the control patients was Tmax (331 +/- 42 [SD] msec), minV (336 +/- 36 msec), and then, zero systolic flow (355 +/- 23 msec). This temporal relation was maintained in the patients with aortic regurgitation. In contrast, in the patients with mitral regurgitation, the temporal relation was Tmax (266 +/- 49 msec), zero systolic flow (310 +/- 37 msec, p less than 0.01 vs. Tmax), and then, minV (355 +/- 37 msec, p less than 0.001 vs. Tmax and p less than 0.01 vs. Aodi). Additionally, the average Tmax occurred earlier in the patients with mitral regurgitation than in the control patients and patients with aortic regurgitation (p less than 0.01, for both), whereas the average time to minimum ventricular volume was similar in all three patient groups. Moreover, the average time to zero systolic flow also occurred earlier in the patients with mitral regurgitation than in the control patients (p less than 0.01) and patients with aortic regurgitation (p less than 0.05). Because of the dissociation of end systole from minimum ventricular volume in the patients with mitral regurgitation, the end-ejection pressure-volume relations calculated at minimum ventricular volume did not correlate (r = -0.09), whereas those calculated at zero systolic flow did correlate (r = 0.88) with the Emax slope values. We conclude that end ejection, defined as minimum ventricular volume, dissociates from end systole in patients with mitral regurgitation because of the shortened time to LV end systole in association with preservation of the time to LV end ejection due to the low impedance to ejection presented by the left atrium. Therefore, pressure-volume relations calculated at minimum ventricular volume might not be useful for assessing LV chamber performance in some patients with mitral regurgitation.

40 CFR 264.304 - Response actions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... into the leak detection system exceeds the action leakage rate for any sump, the owner or operator must... thereafter, as long as the flow rate in the leak detection system exceeds the action leakage rate, the owner... forth the actions to be taken if the action leakage rate has been exceeded. At a minimum, the response...

Low Streamflow Forcasting using Minimum Relative Entropy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cui, H.; Singh, V. P.

2013-12-01

Minimum relative entropy spectral analysis is derived in this study, and applied to forecast streamflow time series. Proposed method extends the autocorrelation in the manner that the relative entropy of underlying process is minimized so that time series data can be forecasted. Different prior estimation, such as uniform, exponential and Gaussian assumption, is taken to estimate the spectral density depending on the autocorrelation structure. Seasonal and nonseasonal low streamflow series obtained from Colorado River (Texas) under draught condition is successfully forecasted using proposed method. Minimum relative entropy determines spectral of low streamflow series with higher resolution than conventional method. Forecasted streamflow is compared to the prediction using Burg's maximum entropy spectral analysis (MESA) and Configurational entropy. The advantage and disadvantage of each method in forecasting low streamflow is discussed.

Optimal electrode selection for multi-channel electroencephalogram based detection of auditory steady-state responses.

PubMed

Van Dun, Bram; Wouters, Jan; Moonen, Marc

2009-07-01

Auditory steady-state responses (ASSRs) are used for hearing threshold estimation at audiometric frequencies. Hearing impaired newborns, in particular, benefit from this technique as it allows for a more precise diagnosis than traditional techniques, and a hearing aid can be better fitted at an early age. However, measurement duration of current single-channel techniques is still too long for clinical widespread use. This paper evaluates the practical performance of a multi-channel electroencephalogram (EEG) processing strategy based on a detection theory approach. A minimum electrode set is determined for ASSRs with frequencies between 80 and 110 Hz using eight-channel EEG measurements of ten normal-hearing adults. This set provides a near-optimal hearing threshold estimate for all subjects and improves response detection significantly for EEG data with numerous artifacts. Multi-channel processing does not significantly improve response detection for EEG data with few artifacts. In this case, best response detection is obtained when noise-weighted averaging is applied on single-channel data. The same test setup (eight channels, ten normal-hearing subjects) is also used to determine a minimum electrode setup for 10-Hz ASSRs. This configuration allows to record near-optimal signal-to-noise ratios for 80% of subjects.

Pulse Profiles, Accretion Column Dips and a Flare in GX 1+4 During a Faint State

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Giles, A. B.; Galloway, D. K.; Greenhill, J. G.; Storey, M. C.; Wilson, C. A.

1999-01-01

The Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer (RXTE) spacecraft observed the X-ray GX 1+4 for it period of 34 hours on July 19/20 1996. The source faded front an intensity of approximately 20 mcrab to a minimum of <= 0.7 mcrab and then partially recovered towards the end of the observation. This extended minimum lasted approximately 40,000 seconds. Phase folded light curves at a barycentric rotation period of 124.36568 +/- 0.00020 seconds show that near the center of the extended minimum the source stopped pulsing in the traditional sense but retained a weak dip feature at the rotation period. Away from the extended minimum the dips are progressively narrower at higher energies and may be interpreted as obscurations or eclipses of the hot spot by the accretion column. The pulse profile changed from leading-edge bright before the extended minimum to trailing-edge bright after it. Data from the Burst and Transient Source Experiment (BATSE) show that a torque reversal occurred < 10 days after our observation. Our data indicate that the observed rotation departs from a constant period with a P/P value of approximately -1.5% per year at a 4.5sigma significance. We infer that we may have serendipitously obtained data, with high sensitivity and temporal resolution about the time of an accretion disk spin reversal. We also observed a rapid flare which had some precursor activity close to the center of the extended minimum.

Neural self-tuning adaptive control of non-minimum phase system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ho, Long T.; Bialasiewicz, Jan T.; Ho, Hai T.

1993-01-01

The motivation of this research came about when a neural network direct adaptive control scheme was applied to control the tip position of a flexible robotic arm. Satisfactory control performance was not attainable due to the inherent non-minimum phase characteristics of the flexible robotic arm tip. Most of the existing neural network control algorithms are based on the direct method and exhibit very high sensitivity, if not unstable, closed-loop behavior. Therefore, a neural self-tuning control (NSTC) algorithm is developed and applied to this problem and showed promising results. Simulation results of the NSTC scheme and the conventional self-tuning (STR) control scheme are used to examine performance factors such as control tracking mean square error, estimation mean square error, transient response, and steady state response.

Continuous-Time Monitoring of Landau-Zener Interference in a Cooper-Pair Box

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sillanpää, Mika; Lehtinen, Teijo; Paila, Antti; Makhlin, Yuriy; Hakonen, Pertti

2006-05-01

Landau-Zener (LZ) tunneling can occur with a certain probability when crossing energy levels of a quantum two-level system are swept across the minimum energy separation. Here we present experimental evidence of quantum interference effects in solid-state LZ tunneling. We used a Cooper-pair box qubit where the LZ tunneling occurs at the charge degeneracy. By employing a weak nondemolition monitoring, we observe interference between consecutive LZ-tunneling events; we find that the average level occupancies depend on the dynamical phase. The system’s unusually strong linear response is explained by interband relaxation. Our interferometer can be used as a high-resolution Mach-Zehnder type detector for phase and charge.

Continuous-time monitoring of Landau-Zener interference in a cooper-pair box.

PubMed

Sillanpää, Mika; Lehtinen, Teijo; Paila, Antti; Makhlin, Yuriy; Hakonen, Pertti

2006-05-12

Landau-Zener (LZ) tunneling can occur with a certain probability when crossing energy levels of a quantum two-level system are swept across the minimum energy separation. Here we present experimental evidence of quantum interference effects in solid-state LZ tunneling. We used a Cooper-pair box qubit where the LZ tunneling occurs at the charge degeneracy. By employing a weak nondemolition monitoring, we observe interference between consecutive LZ-tunneling events; we find that the average level occupancies depend on the dynamical phase. The system's unusually strong linear response is explained by interband relaxation. Our interferometer can be used as a high-resolution Mach-Zehnder-type detector for phase and charge.

Rare Earth Optical Temperature Sensor

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chubb, Donald L.; Wolford, David S.

2000-01-01

A new optical temperature sensor suitable for high temperatures (greater than 1700 K) and harsh environments is introduced. The key component of the sensor is the rare earth material contained at the end of a sensor that is in contact with the sample being measured. The measured narrow wavelength band emission from the rare earth is used to deduce the sample temperature. A simplified relation between the temperature and measured radiation was verified experimentally. The upper temperature limit of the sensor is determined by material limits to be approximately 2000 C. The lower limit, determined by the minimum detectable radiation, is found to be approximately 700 K. At high temperatures 1 K resolution is predicted. Also, millisecond response times are calculated.

Preliminary design procedure for insulated structures subjected to transient heating

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adelman, H. M.

1979-01-01

Minimum-mass designs were obtained for insulated structural panels loaded by a general set of inplane forces and a time dependent temperature. Temperature and stress histories in the structure are given by closed-form solutions, and optimization of the insulation and structural thicknesses is performed by nonlinear mathematical programming techniques. Design calculations are described to evaluate the structural efficiency of eight materials under combined heating and mechanical loads: graphite/polyimide, graphite/epoxy, boron/aluminum, titanium, aluminum, Rene 41, carbon/carbon, and Lockalloy. The effect on design mass of intensity and duration of heating were assessed. Results indicate that an optimum structure may have a temperature response well below the recommended allowable temperature for the material.

Reduced size first-order subsonic and supersonic aeroelastic modeling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Karpel, Mordechay

1990-01-01

Various aeroelastic, aeroservoelastic, dynamic-response, and sensitivity analyses are based on a time-domain first-order (state-space) formulation of the equations of motion. The formulation of this paper is based on the minimum-state (MS) aerodynamic approximation method, which yields a low number of aerodynamic augmenting states. Modifications of the MS and the physical weighting procedures make the modeling method even more attractive. The flexibility of constraint selection is increased without increasing the approximation problem size; the accuracy of dynamic residualization of high-frequency modes is improved; and the resulting model is less sensitive to parametric changes in subsequent analyses. Applications to subsonic and supersonic cases demonstrate the generality, flexibility, accuracy, and efficiency of the method.

UNCOVERING THE INTRINSIC VARIABILITY OF GAMMA-RAY BURSTS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Golkhou, V. Zach; Butler, Nathaniel R

2014-08-01

We develop a robust technique to determine the minimum variability timescale for gamma-ray burst (GRB) light curves, utilizing Haar wavelets. Our approach averages over the data for a given GRB, providing an aggregate measure of signal variation while also retaining sensitivity to narrow pulses within complicated time series. In contrast to previous studies using wavelets, which simply define the minimum timescale in reference to the measurement noise floor, our approach identifies the signature of temporally smooth features in the wavelet scaleogram and then additionally identifies a break in the scaleogram on longer timescales as a signature of a true, temporally unsmooth light curve feature or features. We apply our technique to the large sample of Swift GRB gamma-ray light curves and for the first time—due to the presence of a large number of GRBs with measured redshift—determine the distribution of minimum variability timescales in the source frame. We find a median minimum timescale for long-duration GRBs in the source frame of Δtmin = 0.5 s, with the shortest timescale found being on the order of 10 ms. This short timescale suggests a compact central engine (3000 km). We discuss further implications for the GRB fireball model and present a tantalizing correlation between the minimum timescale and redshift, which may in part be due to cosmological time dilation.

X-ray Monitoring of eta Carinae: Variations on a Theme

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Corcoran, M. F.

2004-01-01

We present monitoring observations by the Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer of the 2-10 keV X-ray emission from the supermassive star eta Carinae from 1996 through late 2003. These data cover more than one of the stellar variability cycles in temporal detail and include especially detailed monitoring through two X-ray minima. We compare the current X-ray minimum which began on June 29, 2003 to the previous X-ray minimum which began on December 15, 1997, and refine the X-ray period to 2024 days. We examine the variations in the X-ray spectrum with phase and with time, and also refine our understanding of the X-ray peaks which have a quasi-period of 84 days, with significant variation. Cycle-to-cycle differences are seen in the level of X-ray intensity and in the detailed variations of the X-ray flux on the rise to maximum just prior to the X-ray minimum. Despite these differences the similarities between the decline to minimum, the duration of the minimum, and correlated variations of the X-ray flux and other measures throughout the electromagnetic spectrum leave little doubt that that the X-ray variation is strictly periodic and produced by orbital motion as the wind from eta Carinae collides with the wind of an otherwise unseen companion.

40 CFR Table 1a to Subpart Ce of... - Emissions Limits for Small, Medium, and Large HMIWI at Designated Facilities as Defined in § 60...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

...) (grains per dry standard cubic foot (gr/dscf)) 115 (0.05) 69 (0.03) 34 (0.015) 3-run average (1-hour minimum sample time per run) EPA Reference Method 5 of appendix A-3 of part 60, or EPA Reference Method...-run average (1-hour minimum sample time per run) EPA Reference Method 10 or 10B of appendix A-4 of...

40 CFR Table 1a to Subpart Ce of... - Emissions Limits for Small, Medium, and Large HMIWI at Designated Facilities as Defined in § 60...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

...) (grains per dry standard cubic foot (gr/dscf)) 115 (0.05) 69 (0.03) 34 (0.015) 3-run average (1-hour minimum sample time per run) EPA Reference Method 5 of appendix A-3 of part 60, or EPA Reference Method...-run average (1-hour minimum sample time per run) EPA Reference Method 10 or 10B of appendix A-4 of...

Passive blast pressure sensor

DOEpatents

King, Michael J.; Sanchez, Roberto J.; Moss, William C.

2013-03-19

A passive blast pressure sensor for detecting blast overpressures of at least a predetermined minimum threshold pressure. The blast pressure sensor includes a piston-cylinder arrangement with one end of the piston having a detection surface exposed to a blast event monitored medium through one end of the cylinder and the other end of the piston having a striker surface positioned to impact a contact stress sensitive film that is positioned against a strike surface of a rigid body, such as a backing plate. The contact stress sensitive film is of a type which changes color in response to at least a predetermined minimum contact stress which is defined as a product of the predetermined minimum threshold pressure and an amplification factor of the piston. In this manner, a color change in the film arising from impact of the piston accelerated by a blast event provides visual indication that a blast overpressure encountered from the blast event was not less than the predetermined minimum threshold pressure.

Involving service users in trials: developing a standard operating procedure

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background Many funding bodies require researchers to actively involve service users in research to improve relevance, accountability and quality. Current guidance to researchers mainly discusses general principles. Formal guidance about how to involve service users operationally in the conduct of trials is lacking. We aimed to develop a standard operating procedure (SOP) to support researchers to involve service users in trials and rigorous studies. Methods Researchers with experience of involving service users and service users who were contributing to trials collaborated with the West Wales Organisation for Rigorous Trials in Health, a registered clinical trials unit, to develop the SOP. Drafts were prepared in a Task and Finish Group, reviewed by all co-authors and amendments made. Results We articulated core principles, which defined equality of service users with all other research team members and collaborative processes underpinning the SOP, plus guidance on how to achieve these. We developed a framework for involving service users in research that defined minimum levels of collaboration plus additional consultation and decision-making opportunities. We recommended service users be involved throughout the life of a trial, including planning and development, data collection, analysis and dissemination, and listed tasks for collaboration. We listed people responsible for involving service users in studies and promoting an inclusive culture. We advocate actively involving service users as early as possible in the research process, with a minimum of two on all formal trial groups and committees. We propose that researchers protect at least 1% of their total research budget as a minimum resource to involve service users and allow enough time to facilitate active involvement. Conclusions This SOP provides guidance to researchers to involve service users successfully in developing and conducting clinical trials and creating a culture of actively involving service users in research at all stages. The UK Clinical Research Collaboration should encourage clinical trials units actively to involve service users and research funders should provide sufficient funds and time for this in research grants. PMID:23866730

Effect of handling characteristics on minimum time cornering with torque vectoring

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, E. N.; Velenis, E.; Tavernini, D.; Cao, D.

2018-02-01

In this paper, the effect of both passive and actively-modified vehicle handling characteristics on minimum time manoeuvring for vehicles with 4-wheel torque vectoring (TV) capability is studied. First, a baseline optimal TV strategy is sought, independent of any causal control law. An optimal control problem (OCP) is initially formulated considering 4 independent wheel torque inputs, together with the steering angle rate, as the control variables. Using this formulation, the performance benefit using TV against an electric drive train with a fixed torque distribution, is demonstrated. The sensitivity of TV-controlled manoeuvre time to the passive understeer gradient of the vehicle is then studied. A second formulation of the OCP is introduced where a closed-loop TV controller is incorporated into the system dynamics of the OCP. This formulation allows the effect of actively modifying a vehicle's handling characteristic via TV on its minimum time cornering performance of the vehicle to be assessed. In particular, the effect of the target understeer gradient as the key tuning parameter of the literature-standard steady-state linear single-track model yaw rate reference is analysed.

Optimal multi-type sensor placement for response and excitation reconstruction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, C. D.; Xu, Y. L.

2016-01-01

The need to perform dynamic response reconstruction always arises as the measurement of structural response is often limited to a few locations, especially for a large civil structure. Besides, it is usually very difficult, if not impossible, to measure external excitations under the operation condition of a structure. This study presents an algorithm for optimal placement of multi-type sensors, including strain gauges, displacement transducers and accelerometers, for the best reconstruction of responses of key structural components where there are no sensors installed and the best estimation of external excitations acting on the structure at the same time. The algorithm is developed in the framework of Kalman filter with unknown excitation, in which minimum-variance unbiased estimates of the generalized state of the structure and the external excitations are obtained by virtue of limited sensor measurements. The structural responses of key locations without sensors can then be reconstructed with the estimated generalized state and excitation. The asymptotic stability feature of the filter is utilized for optimal sensor placement. The number and spatial location of the multi-type sensors are determined by adding the optimal sensor which gains the maximal reduction of the estimation error of reconstructed responses. For the given mode number in response reconstruction and the given locations of external excitations, the optimal multi-sensor placement achieved by the proposed method is independent of the type and time evolution of external excitation. A simply-supported overhanging steel beam under multiple types of excitation is numerically studied to demonstrate the feasibility and superiority of the proposed method, and the experimental work is then carried out to testify the effectiveness of the proposed method.

Effects of tidal current phase at the junction of two straits

USGS Publications Warehouse

Warner, J.; Schoellhamer, D.; Burau, J.; Schladow, G.

2002-01-01

Estuaries typically have a monotonic increase in salinity from freshwater at the head of the estuary to ocean water at the mouth, creating a consistent direction for the longitudinal baroclinic pressure gradient. However, Mare Island Strait in San Francisco Bay has a local salinity minimum created by the phasing of the currents at the junction of Mare Island and Carquinez Straits. The salinity minimum creates converging baroclinic pressure gradients in Mare Island Strait. Equipment was deployed at four stations in the straits for 6 months from September 1997 to March 1998 to measure tidal variability of velocity, conductivity, temperature, depth, and suspended sediment concentration. Analysis of the measured time series shows that on a tidal time scale in Mare Island Strait, the landward and seaward baroclinic pressure gradients in the local salinity minimum interact with the barotropic gradient, creating regions of enhanced shear in the water column during the flood and reduced shear during the ebb. On a tidally averaged time scale, baroclinic pressure gradients converge on the tidally averaged salinity minimum and drive a converging near-bed and diverging surface current circulation pattern, forming a "baroclinic convergence zone" in Mare Island Strait. Historically large sedimentation rates in this area are attributed to the convergence zone. 

[Minimum Standards for the Spatial Accessibility of Primary Care: A Systematic Review].

PubMed

Voigtländer, S; Deiters, T

2015-12-01

Regional disparities of access to primary care are substantial in Germany, especially in terms of spatial accessibility. However, there is no legally or generally binding minimum standard for the spatial accessibility effort that is still acceptable. Our objective is to analyse existing minimum standards, the methods used as well as their empirical basis. A systematic literature review was undertaken of publications regarding minimum standards for the spatial accessibility of primary care based on a title word and keyword search using PubMed, SSCI/Web of Science, EMBASE and Cochrane Library. 8 minimum standards from the USA, Germany and Austria could be identified. All of them specify the acceptable spatial accessibility effort in terms of travel time; almost half include also distance(s). The travel time maximum, which is acceptable, is 30 min and it tends to be lower in urban areas. Primary care is, according to the identified minimum standards, part of the local area (Nahbereich) of so-called central places (Zentrale Orte) providing basic goods and services. The consideration of means of transport, e. g. public transport, is heterogeneous. The standards are based on empirical studies, consultation with service providers, practical experiences, and regional planning/central place theory as well as on legal or political regulations. The identified minimum standards provide important insights into the effort that is still acceptable regarding spatial accessibility, i. e. travel time, distance and means of transport. It seems reasonable to complement the current planning system for outpatient care, which is based on provider-to-population ratios, by a gravity-model method to identify places as well as populations with insufficient spatial accessibility. Due to a lack of a common minimum standard we propose - subject to further discussion - to begin with a threshold based on the spatial accessibility limit of the local area, i. e. 30 min to the next primary care provider for at least 90% of the regional population. The exceeding of the threshold would necessitate a discussion of a health care deficit and in line with this a potential need for intervention, e. g. in terms of alternative forms of health care provision. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Use of a wireless, inertial sensor-based system to objectively evaluate flexion tests in the horse.

PubMed

Marshall, J F; Lund, D G; Voute, L C

2012-12-01

A wireless, inertial sensor-based system has previously been validated for evaluation of equine lameness. However, threshold values have not been determined for the assessment of responses to flexion tests. The aim of this investigation was to evaluate a sensor-based system for objective assessment of the response to flexion. Healthy adult horses (n = 17) in work were recruited prospectively. Horses were instrumented with sensors on the head (accelerometer), pelvis (accelerometer) and right forelimb (gyroscope), before trotting in a straight line (minimum 25 strides) for 2 consecutive trials. Sensors measured 1) vertical pelvic movement asymmetry (PMA) for both right and left hindlimb strides and 2) average difference in maximum and minimum pelvic height (PDMax and PDMin) between right and left hindlimb strides in millimetres. A hindlimb was randomly selected for proximal flexion (60 s), after which the horse trotted a minimum of 10 strides. Response to flexion was blindly assessed as negative or positive by an experienced observer. Changes in PMA, PDMax and PDMin between baseline and flexion examinations were calculated for each test. Statistical analysis consisted of a Pearson's product moment test and linear regression on baseline trials, Mann-Whitney rank sum test for effect of flexion and receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis of test parameters. There was a strong correlation between trials for PMA, PDMin and PDMax measurements (P < 0.001). A positive flexion test resulted in a significant increase in PMA (P = 0.021) and PDMax (P = 0.05) only. Receiver-operator curve analysis established cut-off values for change in PMA and PDMax of 0.068 and 4.47 mm, respectively (sensitivity = 0.71, specificity = 0.65) to indicate a positive response to flexion. A positive response to flexion resulted in significant changes to objective measurements of pelvic symmetry. Findings support the use of inertial sensor systems to objectively assess response to flexion tests. Further investigation is warranted to establish cut-off values for objective assessment of other diagnostic procedures.

Positive dwell time algorithm with minimum equal extra material removal in deterministic optical surfacing technology.

PubMed

Li, Longxiang; Xue, Donglin; Deng, Weijie; Wang, Xu; Bai, Yang; Zhang, Feng; Zhang, Xuejun

2017-11-10

In deterministic computer-controlled optical surfacing, accurate dwell time execution by computer numeric control machines is crucial in guaranteeing a high-convergence ratio for the optical surface error. It is necessary to consider the machine dynamics limitations in the numerical dwell time algorithms. In this paper, these constraints on dwell time distribution are analyzed, and a model of the equal extra material removal is established. A positive dwell time algorithm with minimum equal extra material removal is developed. Results of simulations based on deterministic magnetorheological finishing demonstrate the necessity of considering machine dynamics performance and illustrate the validity of the proposed algorithm. Indeed, the algorithm effectively facilitates the determinacy of sub-aperture optical surfacing processes.

A Genetic Algorithm for the Bi-Level Topological Design of Local Area Networks

PubMed Central

Camacho-Vallejo, José-Fernando; Mar-Ortiz, Julio; López-Ramos, Francisco; Rodríguez, Ricardo Pedraza

2015-01-01

Local access networks (LAN) are commonly used as communication infrastructures which meet the demand of a set of users in the local environment. Usually these networks consist of several LAN segments connected by bridges. The topological LAN design bi-level problem consists on assigning users to clusters and the union of clusters by bridges in order to obtain a minimum response time network with minimum connection cost. Therefore, the decision of optimally assigning users to clusters will be made by the leader and the follower will make the decision of connecting all the clusters while forming a spanning tree. In this paper, we propose a genetic algorithm for solving the bi-level topological design of a Local Access Network. Our solution method considers the Stackelberg equilibrium to solve the bi-level problem. The Stackelberg-Genetic algorithm procedure deals with the fact that the follower’s problem cannot be optimally solved in a straightforward manner. The computational results obtained from two different sets of instances show that the performance of the developed algorithm is efficient and that it is more suitable for solving the bi-level problem than a previous Nash-Genetic approach. PMID:26102502

Minimum-variance Brownian motion control of an optically trapped probe.

PubMed

Huang, Yanan; Zhang, Zhipeng; Menq, Chia-Hsiang

2009-10-20

This paper presents a theoretical and experimental investigation of the Brownian motion control of an optically trapped probe. The Langevin equation is employed to describe the motion of the probe experiencing random thermal force and optical trapping force. Since active feedback control is applied to suppress the probe's Brownian motion, actuator dynamics and measurement delay are included in the equation. The equation of motion is simplified to a first-order linear differential equation and transformed to a discrete model for the purpose of controller design and data analysis. The derived model is experimentally verified by comparing the model prediction to the measured response of a 1.87 microm trapped probe subject to proportional control. It is then employed to design the optimal controller that minimizes the variance of the probe's Brownian motion. Theoretical analysis is derived to evaluate the control performance of a specific optical trap. Both experiment and simulation are used to validate the design as well as theoretical analysis, and to illustrate the performance envelope of the active control. Moreover, adaptive minimum variance control is implemented to maintain the optimal performance in the case in which the system is time varying when operating the actively controlled optical trap in a complex environment.

Validation of Minimum Display Requirements for a UAS Detect and Avoid System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rorie, Conrad; Fern, Lisa; Roberts, Zach; Monk, Kevin; Santiago, Confesor; Shively, Jay

2017-01-01

The full integration of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) into the National Airspace System (NAS), a prerequisite for enabling a broad range of public and commercial UAS operations, presents several technical challenges to UAS developers, operators and regulators. A primary barrier is the inability for UAS pilots (situated at a ground control station, or GCS) to comply with Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations sections 91.111 and 91.113, which require pilots to see and avoid other aircraft in order to maintain well clear. The present study is the final in a series of human-in-the-loop experiments designed to explore and test the various display and alerting requirements being incorporated into the minimum operational performance standards (MOPS) for a UAS-specific detect and avoid system that would replace the see and avoid function required of manned aircraft. Two display configurations were tested - an integrated display and a standalone display - and their impact on pilot response times and ability to maintain DAA well clear were compared. Results indicated that the current draft of the MOPS result in high-level performance and did not meaningfully differ by display configuration.

Equal status in Ultimatum Games promotes rational sharing.

PubMed

Han, Xiao; Cao, Shinan; Bao, Jian-Zhang; Wang, Wen-Xu; Zhang, Boyu; Gao, Zi-You; Sánchez, Angel

2018-01-19

Experiments on the Ultimatum Game (UG) repeatedly show that people's behaviour is far from rational. In UG experiments, a subject proposes how to divide a pot and the other can accept or reject the proposal, in which case both lose everything. While rational people would offer and accept the minimum possible amount, in experiments low offers are often rejected and offers are typically larger than the minimum, and even fair. Several theoretical works have proposed that these results may arise evolutionarily when subjects act in both roles and there is a fixed interaction structure in the population specifying who plays with whom. We report the first experiments on structured UG with subjects playing simultaneously both roles. We observe that acceptance levels of responders approach rationality and proposers accommodate their offers to their environment. More precisely, subjects keep low acceptance levels all the time, but as proposers they follow a best-response-like approach to choose their offers. We thus find that status equality promotes rational sharing while the influence of structure leads to fairer offers compared to well-mixed populations. Our results are far from what is observed in single-role UG experiments and largely different from available predictions based on evolutionary game theory.

Empirical Model of the Location of the Main Ionospheric Trough

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deminov, M. G.; Shubin, V. N.

2018-05-01

The empirical model of the location of the main ionospheric trough (MIT) is developed based on an analysis of data from CHAMP satellite measured at the altitudes of 350-450 km during 2000-2007; the model is presented in the form of the analytical dependence of the invariant latitude of the trough minimum Φm on the magnetic local time (MLT), the geomagnetic activity, and the geographical longitude for the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. The time-weighted average index Kp(τ), the coefficient of which τ = 0.6 is determined by the requirement of the model minimum deviation from experimental data, is used as an indicator of geomagnetic activity. The model has no limitations, either in local time or geomagnetic activity. However, the initial set of MIT minima mainly contains data dealing with an interval of 16-08 MLT for Kp(τ) < 6; therefore, the model is rather qualitative outside this interval. It is also established that (a) the use of solar local time (SLT) instead of MLT increases the model error no more than by 5-10%; (b) the amplitude of the longitudinal effect at the latitude of MIT minimum in geomagnetic (invariant) coordinates is ten times lower than that in geographical coordinates.

Investigating seismoionospheric effects on a long subionospheric path

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clilverd, Mark A.; Rodger, Craig J.; Thomson, Neil R.

We examine the possibility of earthquake precursors influencing the subionospheric propagation of VLF transmissions. We consider the long (12 Mm) path from northeastern United States to Faraday, Antarctica (65°S, 64°W), during 1990-1995 and investigate the subionospheric amplitude variation of signals from the NAA communication transmitter (24.0 kHz, 1 MW) in Cutler, Maine, with particular emphasis on possible changes induced by seismic events occurring in South America. We have analyzed the changes in timing of modal minima generated by the passage of the sunrise terminator over the Andes, i.e., the ``VLF terminator time'' (TT) method. The anomalous variations in timing throughout the year are of a size and occurrence frequency similar to those previously reported, i.e., +/-0.5-1 hour and 1-2 per month. However, we find that in these anomalous cases, the time of the sunrise modal minimum does not change significantly, but rather, the minimum becomes insufficiently deep to be detected, and the time of the next nearest minimum is logged. Our analysis indicates that the occurrence rate of successful earthquake predictions using the TT method cannot be distinguished from that of chance. Additionally, the level of false earthquake prediction using the TT method is high.

Dynamic stiffness of chemically and physically ageing rubber vibration isolators in the audible frequency range. Part 1: constitutive equations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kari, Leif

2017-09-01

The constitutive equations of chemically and physically ageing rubber in the audible frequency range are modelled as a function of ageing temperature, ageing time, actual temperature, time and frequency. The constitutive equations are derived by assuming nearly incompressible material with elastic spherical response and viscoelastic deviatoric response, using Mittag-Leffler relaxation function of fractional derivative type, the main advantage being the minimum material parameters needed to successfully fit experimental data over a broad frequency range. The material is furthermore assumed essentially entropic and thermo-mechanically simple while using a modified William-Landel-Ferry shift function to take into account temperature dependence and physical ageing, with fractional free volume evolution modelled by a nonlinear, fractional differential equation with relaxation time identical to that of the stress response and related to the fractional free volume by Doolittle equation. Physical ageing is a reversible ageing process, including trapping and freeing of polymer chain ends, polymer chain reorganizations and free volume changes. In contrast, chemical ageing is an irreversible process, mainly attributed to oxygen reaction with polymer network either damaging the network by scission or reformation of new polymer links. The chemical ageing is modelled by inner variables that are determined by inner fractional evolution equations. Finally, the model parameters are fitted to measurements results of natural rubber over a broad audible frequency range, and various parameter studies are performed including comparison with results obtained by ordinary, non-fractional ageing evolution differential equations.

The Influence of Noise Reduction on Speech Intelligibility, Response Times to Speech, and Perceived Listening Effort in Normal-Hearing Listeners.

PubMed

van den Tillaart-Haverkate, Maj; de Ronde-Brons, Inge; Dreschler, Wouter A; Houben, Rolph

2017-01-01

Single-microphone noise reduction leads to subjective benefit, but not to objective improvements in speech intelligibility. We investigated whether response times (RTs) provide an objective measure of the benefit of noise reduction and whether the effect of noise reduction is reflected in rated listening effort. Twelve normal-hearing participants listened to digit triplets that were either unprocessed or processed with one of two noise-reduction algorithms: an ideal binary mask (IBM) and a more realistic minimum mean square error estimator (MMSE). For each of these three processing conditions, we measured (a) speech intelligibility, (b) RTs on two different tasks (identification of the last digit and arithmetic summation of the first and last digit), and (c) subjective listening effort ratings. All measurements were performed at four signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs): -5, 0, +5, and +∞ dB. Speech intelligibility was high (>97% correct) for all conditions. A significant decrease in response time, relative to the unprocessed condition, was found for both IBM and MMSE for the arithmetic but not the identification task. Listening effort ratings were significantly lower for IBM than for MMSE and unprocessed speech in noise. We conclude that RT for an arithmetic task can provide an objective measure of the benefit of noise reduction. For young normal-hearing listeners, both ideal and realistic noise reduction can reduce RTs at SNRs where speech intelligibility is close to 100%. Ideal noise reduction can also reduce perceived listening effort.

A method for calculating minimum biodiversity offset multipliers accounting for time discounting, additionality and permanence

PubMed Central

Laitila, Jussi; Moilanen, Atte; Pouzols, Federico M

2014-01-01

Biodiversity offsetting, which means compensation for ecological and environmental damage caused by development activity, has recently been gaining strong political support around the world. One common criticism levelled at offsets is that they exchange certain and almost immediate losses for uncertain future gains. In the case of restoration offsets, gains may be realized after a time delay of decades, and with considerable uncertainty. Here we focus on offset multipliers, which are ratios between damaged and compensated amounts (areas) of biodiversity. Multipliers have the attraction of being an easily understandable way of deciding the amount of offsetting needed. On the other hand, exact values of multipliers are very difficult to compute in practice if at all possible. We introduce a mathematical method for deriving minimum levels for offset multipliers under the assumption that offsetting gains must compensate for the losses (no net loss offsetting). We calculate absolute minimum multipliers that arise from time discounting and delayed emergence of offsetting gains for a one-dimensional measure of biodiversity. Despite the highly simplified model, we show that even the absolute minimum multipliers may easily be quite large, in the order of dozens, and theoretically arbitrarily large, contradicting the relatively low multipliers found in literature and in practice. While our results inform policy makers about realistic minimal offsetting requirements, they also challenge many current policies and show the importance of rigorous models for computing (minimum) offset multipliers. The strength of the presented method is that it requires minimal underlying information. We include a supplementary spreadsheet tool for calculating multipliers to facilitate application. PMID:25821578

Defining therapy goals for major molecular remission in chronic myeloid leukemia: results of the randomized CML Study IV.

PubMed

Saussele, Susanne; Hehlmann, Rüdiger; Fabarius, Alice; Jeromin, Sabine; Proetel, Ulrike; Rinaldetti, Sebastien; Kohlbrenner, Katharina; Einsele, Hermann; Falge, Christiane; Kanz, Lothar; Neubauer, Andreas; Kneba, Michael; Stegelmann, Frank; Pfreundschuh, Michael; Waller, Cornelius F; Oppliger Leibundgut, Elisabeth; Heim, Dominik; Krause, Stefan W; Hofmann, Wolf-Karsten; Hasford, Joerg; Pfirrmann, Markus; Müller, Martin C; Hochhaus, Andreas; Lauseker, Michael

2018-05-01

Major molecular remission (MMR) is an important therapy goal in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). So far, MMR is not a failure criterion according to ELN management recommendation leading to uncertainties when to change therapy in CML patients not reaching MMR after 12 months. At monthly landmarks, for different molecular remission status Hazard ratios (HR) were estimated for patients registered to CML study IV who were divided in a learning and a validation sample. The minimum HR for MMR was found at 2.5 years with 0.28 (compared to patients without remission). In the validation sample, a significant advantage for progression-free survival (PFS) for patients in MMR could be detected (p-value 0.007). The optimal time to predict PFS in patients with MMR could be validated in an independent sample at 2.5 years. With our model we provide a suggestion when to define lack of MMR as therapy failure and thus treatment change should be considered. The optimal response time for 1% BCR-ABL at about 12-15 months was confirmed and for deep molecular remission no specific time point was detected. Nevertheless, it was demonstrated that the earlier the MMR is achieved the higher is the chance to attain deep molecular response later.

Support Minimized Inversion of Acoustic and Elastic Wave Scattering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Safaeinili, Ali

Inversion of limited data is common in many areas of NDE such as X-ray Computed Tomography (CT), Ultrasonic and eddy current flaw characterization and imaging. In many applications, it is common to have a bias toward a solution with minimum (L^2)^2 norm without any physical justification. When it is a priori known that objects are compact as, say, with cracks and voids, by choosing "Minimum Support" functional instead of the minimum (L^2)^2 norm, an image can be obtained that is equally in agreement with the available data, while it is more consistent with what is most probably seen in the real world. We have utilized a minimum support functional to find a solution with the smallest volume. This inversion algorithm is most successful in reconstructing objects that are compact like voids and cracks. To verify this idea, we first performed a variational nonlinear inversion of acoustic backscatter data using minimum support objective function. A full nonlinear forward model was used to accurately study the effectiveness of the minimized support inversion without error due to the linear (Born) approximation. After successful inversions using a full nonlinear forward model, a linearized acoustic inversion was developed to increase speed and efficiency in imaging process. The results indicate that by using minimum support functional, we can accurately size and characterize voids and/or cracks which otherwise might be uncharacterizable. An extremely important feature of support minimized inversion is its ability to compensate for unknown absolute phase (zero-of-time). Zero-of-time ambiguity is a serious problem in the inversion of the pulse-echo data. The minimum support inversion was successfully used for the inversion of acoustic backscatter data due to compact scatterers without the knowledge of the zero-of-time. The main drawback to this type of inversion is its computer intensiveness. In order to make this type of constrained inversion available for common use, work needs to be performed in three areas: (1) exploitation of state-of-the-art parallel computation, (2) improvement of theoretical formulation of the scattering process for better computation efficiency, and (3) development of better methods for guiding the non-linear inversion. (Abstract shortened by UMI.).

An improved Armstrong-Frederick-Type Plasticity Model for Stable Cyclic Stress-Strain Responses Considering Nonproportional Hardening

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Jing; Zhang, Zhong-ping; Li, Chun-wang

2018-03-01

This paper modified an Armstrong-Frederick-type plasticity model for investigating the stable cyclic deformation behavior of metallic materials with different sensitivity to nonproportional loadings. In the modified model, the nonproportionality factor and nonproportional cyclic hardening coefficient coupled with the Jiang-Sehitoglu incremental plasticity model were used to estimate the stable stress-strain responses of the two materials (1045HR steel and 304 stainless steel) under various tension-torsion strain paths. A new equation was proposed to calculate the nonproportionality factor on the basis of the minimum normal strain range. Procedures to determine the minimum normal strain range were presented for general multiaxial loadings. Then, the modified model requires only the cyclic strain hardening exponent and cyclic strength coefficient to determine the material constants. It is convenient for predicting the stable stress-strain responses of materials in engineering application. Comparisons showed that the modified model can reflect the effect of nonproportional cyclic hardening well.

Singular perturbation techniques for real time aircraft trajectory optimization and control

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Calise, A. J.; Moerder, D. D.

1982-01-01

The usefulness of singular perturbation methods for developing real time computer algorithms to control and optimize aircraft flight trajectories is examined. A minimum time intercept problem using F-8 aerodynamic and propulsion data is used as a baseline. This provides a framework within which issues relating to problem formulation, solution methodology and real time implementation are examined. Theoretical questions relating to separability of dynamics are addressed. With respect to implementation, situations leading to numerical singularities are identified, and procedures for dealing with them are outlined. Also, particular attention is given to identifying quantities that can be precomputed and stored, thus greatly reducing the on-board computational load. Numerical results are given to illustrate the minimum time algorithm, and the resulting flight paths. An estimate is given for execution time and storage requirements.

Application of QUAL2K Model to Assess Ecological Purification Technology for a Polluted River

PubMed Central

Zhu, Wenting; Niu, Qian; Zhang, Ruibin; Ye, Rui; Qian, Xin; Qian, Yu

2015-01-01

Industrialization and urbanization have caused water pollution and ecosystem degradation, especially in urban canals and rivers in China; accordingly, effective water quality improvement programs are needed. In this study, the Tianlai River in Jiangsu, China was taken as a research site, and a combination of ecological purification technologies consisting of biological rope, phytoremediation, and activated carbon were applied in a laboratory-scale study to examine degradation coefficients under dynamic water conditions. Coefficients were then input into the QUAL2K model to simulate various hypothetical scenarios and determine the minimum density of ecological purification combination and hydraulic retention time (HRT) to meet Grade V or IV of the China standard for surface water. The minimum densities for Grade V and IV were 1.6 times and 2 times the experimental density, while the minimum HRTs for Grade V and IV were 2.4 day and 3 day. The results of this study should provide a practical and efficient design method for ecological purification programs. PMID:25689997

49 CFR 178.58 - Specification 4DA welded steel cylinders for aircraft use.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... stress in pounds psi; P = test pressure prescribed for water jacket test, i.e., at least 2 times service... seamless hemispheres) or a circumferentially welded cylinder (two seamless drawn shells) with a water... the wall stress at the minimum specified test pressure may not exceed 67 percent of the minimum...

Potential impacts of a future Grand Solar Minimum on decadal regional climate change and interannual hemispherical climate variability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Spiegl, Tobias; Langematz, Ulrike

2016-04-01

The political, technical and socio-economic developments of the next decades will determine the magnitude of 21st century climate change, since they are inextricably linked to future anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. To assess the range of uncertainty that is related to these developments, it is common to assume different emission scenarios for 21st climate projections. While the uncertainties associated with the anthropogenic greenhouse gas forcing have been studied intensely, the contribution of natural climate drivers (particularly solar variability) to recent and future climate change are subject of intense debate. The past 1,000 years featured at least 5 excursions (lasting 60-100 years) of exceptionally low solar activity, induced by a weak magnetic field of the Sun, so called Grand Solar Minima. While the global temperature response to such a decrease in solar activity is assumed to be rather small, nonlinear mechanisms in the climate system might amplify the regional temperature signal. This hypothesis is supported by the last Grand Solar Minimum (the Maunder Minimum, 1645-1715) which coincides with the Little Ice Age, an epoch which is characterized by severe cold and hardship over Europe, North America and Asia. The long-lasting minimum of Solar Cycle 23 as well as the overall weak maximum of Cycle 24 reveal the possibility for a return to Grand Solar Minimum conditions within the next decades. The quantification of the implications of such a projected decrease in solar forcing is of ultimate importance, given the on-going public discussion of the role of carbon dioxide emissions for global warming, and the possible role a cooling due to decreasing solar activity could be ascribed to. Since there is still no clear consensus about the actual strength of the Maunder Minimum, we used 3 acknowledged solar reconstruction datasets that show significant differences in both, total solar irradiance (TSI) and spectral irradiance (SSI) to simulate a future Grand Solar Minimum under RCP6.0 conditions. The results obtained were compared to a RCP6.0 simulation that was carried out using the CCMI recommendations for a 21st century solar forcing. We used the ECHAM/MESSy Atmospheric Chemistry (EMAC) chemistry-climate model that incorporates interactive ozone chemistry, a high-resolution shortwave radiation scheme, a high model top (0.01 hPa) and is coupled to a 3D ocean general circulation model. We focused on the regional responses to a future Grand Solar Minimum and interannual variability patterns (i.e. the Northern and Southern Annular Mode (NAM/SAM)).

Minimum-Light Spectral Classifications for M-Type Mira Variables

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wing, Robert F.

2015-08-01

Many bright, well-known Mira variables, including most of the 378 stars for which the AAVSO publishes predicted dates of maximum and minimum in its annual Bulletins, have never been spectroscopically observed close to the time of minimum light, and consequently their catalogued ranges in spectral type are often grossly and misleadingly under-represented. In an effort to improve this situation, for the past 12 years I have been using my 6-color system of narrow-band classification photometry to observe Miras predicted to be near minimum light at the times of my biannual observing runs with the CTIO 0.9-m telescope (operated by the SMARTS consortium). The 6-color system measures the 7100 A band of TiO, which serves to classify stars in the interval K4 to M8, and the 1.06 micron band of VO, which is effective for stars of type M8 and later. To date I have made 431 observations of approximately 220 different (and mostly southern) Miras. Examples are shown of the observed 6-color spectra, and the classifications derived from them.

Finding minimum-quotient cuts in planar graphs

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

Park, J.K.; Phillips, C.A.

Given a graph G = (V, E) where each vertex v [element of] V is assigned a weight w(v) and each edge e [element of] E is assigned a cost c(e), the quotient of a cut partitioning the vertices of V into sets S and [bar S] is c(S, [bar S])/min[l brace]w(S), w(S)[r brace], where c(S, [bar S]) is the sum of the costs of the edges crossing the cut and w(S) and w([bar S]) are the sum of the weights of the vertices in S and [bar S], respectively. The problem of finding a cut whose quotient is minimummore » for a graph has in recent years attracted considerable attention, due in large part to the work of Rao and Leighton and Rao. They have shown that an algorithm (exact or approximation) for the minimum-quotient-cut problem can be used to obtain an approximation algorithm for the more famous minimumb-balanced-cut problem, which requires finding a cut (S,[bar S]) minimizing c(S,[bar S]) subject to the constraint bW [le] w(S) [le] (1 [minus] b)W, where W is the total vertex weight and b is some fixed balance in the range 0 < b [le] [1/2]. Unfortunately, the minimum-quotient-cut problem is strongly NP-hard for general graphs, and the best polynomial-time approximation algorithm known for the general problem guarantees only a cut whose quotient is at mostO(lg n) times optimal, where n is the size of the graph. However, for planar graphs, the minimum-quotient-cut problem appears more tractable, as Rao has developed several efficient approximation algorithms for the planar version of the problem capable of finding a cut whose quotient is at most some constant times optimal. In this paper, we improve Rao's algorithms, both in terms of accuracy and speed. As our first result, we present two pseudopolynomial-time exact algorithms for the planar minimum-quotient-cut problem. As Rao's most accurate approximation algorithm for the problem -- also a pseudopolynomial-time algorithm -- guarantees only a 1.5-times-optimal cut, our algorithms represent a significant advance.« less

Minimum initial service package (MISP) for sexual and reproductive health in disasters.

PubMed

Lisam, Suchitra

2014-12-01

This paper is based on a presentation given at the Evidence Aid Symposium, on 20 September 2014, at Hyderabad, India. The paper provides background about how the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) got conceived as a humanitarian health response that adopts human right approach, based on core principles driven by needs of adolescent girls and women, and having respect for their values, ethics and morals. Good practices across nations documented by Inter-Agency Working Groups (IAWGs) on Reproductive Health in Humanitarian Crisis has supported the provision of essential SRH care services to adolescent girls and women in humanitarian crisis and in disasters. Secondary desk review is used to document the lessons learnt and good practices followed and documents for SRH. These essential SRH care services are to be provided as "Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP)" for implementation at the outset of disaster. The Sphere Humanitarian Charter and Minimum Standards in Disaster Response incorporated the MISP for SRH as a minimum standard of care in disaster response with a goal to reduce mortality, morbidity and disability among populations affected by crises, particularly women and girls. Disaster prone countries are expected to roll out MISP to improve humanitarian response and emergency preparedness systems. The East Europe and Central Asia (EECA) region including India have rolled out MISP starting from 2011 (EECA) and from 2013-2014 onwards in India across cities such as Chennai, Patna, Bhubaneshwar, Kolkata, Faridabad and Calcutta. Across India, through these national and state level trainings, nearly 600 people from NGOs, institutions, and government agencies were developed as national level trainers and resource persons for MISP who could advocate for RH in emergencies, apply core techniques provided in the MISP, apply coordination skills for the implementation of MISP and develop an action plan to integrate RH and Gender Based Violence (GBV) into Disaster Management Plans of respective agencies. The way forward includes focusing on MISP distance learning module, integration of MISP in Health action plans, and integration into national disaster preparedness and contingency planning of respective agencies and departments and building capacity at various levels. © 2014 Chinese Cochrane Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.