A comparison of moving object detection methods for real-time moving object detection
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Roshan, Aditya; Zhang, Yun
2014-06-01
Moving object detection has a wide variety of applications from traffic monitoring, site monitoring, automatic theft identification, face detection to military surveillance. Many methods have been developed across the globe for moving object detection, but it is very difficult to find one which can work globally in all situations and with different types of videos. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate existing moving object detection methods which can be implemented in software on a desktop or laptop, for real time object detection. There are several moving object detection methods noted in the literature, but few of them are suitable for real time moving object detection. Most of the methods which provide for real time movement are further limited by the number of objects and the scene complexity. This paper evaluates the four most commonly used moving object detection methods as background subtraction technique, Gaussian mixture model, wavelet based and optical flow based methods. The work is based on evaluation of these four moving object detection methods using two (2) different sets of cameras and two (2) different scenes. The moving object detection methods have been implemented using MatLab and results are compared based on completeness of detected objects, noise, light change sensitivity, processing time etc. After comparison, it is observed that optical flow based method took least processing time and successfully detected boundary of moving objects which also implies that it can be implemented for real-time moving object detection.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2017-06-01
The objective of this study was to develop an objective, quantitative method for evaluating damage to bridge girders by using artificial neural networks (ANNs). This evaluation method, which is a supplement to visual inspection, requires only the res...
Liu, Dinglin; Zhao, Xianglian
2013-01-01
In an effort to deal with more complicated evaluation situations, scientists have focused their efforts on dynamic comprehensive evaluation research. How to make full use of the subjective and objective information has become one of the noteworthy content. In this paper, a dynamic comprehensive evaluation method with subjective and objective information is proposed. We use the combination weighting method to determine the index weight. Analysis hierarchy process method is applied to dispose the subjective information, and criteria importance through intercriteria correlation method is used to handle the objective information. And for the time weight determination, we consider both time distance and information size to embody the principle of esteeming the present over the past. And then the linear weighted average model is constructed to make the evaluation process more practicable. Finally, an example is presented to illustrate the effectiveness of this method. Overall, the results suggest that the proposed method is reasonable and effective. PMID:24386176
A new evaluation method research for fusion quality of infrared and visible images
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ge, Xingguo; Ji, Yiguo; Tao, Zhongxiang; Tian, Chunyan; Ning, Chengda
2017-03-01
In order to objectively evaluate the fusion effect of infrared and visible image, a fusion evaluation method for infrared and visible images based on energy-weighted average structure similarity and edge information retention value is proposed for drawbacks of existing evaluation methods. The evaluation index of this method is given, and the infrared and visible image fusion results under different algorithms and environments are made evaluation experiments on the basis of this index. The experimental results show that the objective evaluation index is consistent with the subjective evaluation results obtained from this method, which shows that the method is a practical and effective fusion image quality evaluation method.
A Tool for the Automated Design and Evaluation of Habitat Interior Layouts
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Simon, Matthew A.; Wilhite, Alan W.
2013-01-01
The objective of space habitat design is to minimize mass and system size while providing adequate space for all necessary equipment and a functional layout that supports crew health and productivity. Unfortunately, development and evaluation of interior layouts is often ignored during conceptual design because of the subjectivity and long times required using current evaluation methods (e.g., human-in-the-loop mockup tests and in-depth CAD evaluations). Early, more objective assessment could prevent expensive design changes that may increase vehicle mass and compromise functionality. This paper describes a new interior design evaluation method to enable early, structured consideration of habitat interior layouts. This interior layout evaluation method features a comprehensive list of quantifiable habitat layout evaluation criteria, automatic methods to measure these criteria from a geometry model, and application of systems engineering tools and numerical methods to construct a multi-objective value function measuring the overall habitat layout performance. In addition to a detailed description of this method, a C++/OpenGL software tool which has been developed to implement this method is also discussed. This tool leverages geometry modeling coupled with collision detection techniques to identify favorable layouts subject to multiple constraints and objectives (e.g., minimize mass, maximize contiguous habitable volume, maximize task performance, and minimize crew safety risks). Finally, a few habitat layout evaluation examples are described to demonstrate the effectiveness of this method and tool to influence habitat design.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yun, Dong-Un; Lee, Sang-Kwon
2017-06-01
In this paper, we present a novel method for an objective evaluation of knocking noise emitted by diesel engines based on the temporal and frequency masking theory. The knocking sound of a diesel engine is a vibro-acoustic sound correlated with the high-frequency resonances of the engine structure and a periodic impulsive sound with amplitude modulation. Its period is related to the engine speed and includes specific frequency bands related to the resonances of the engine structure. A knocking sound with the characteristics of a high-frequency impulsive wave can be masked by low-frequency sounds correlated with the harmonics of the firing frequency and broadband noise. The degree of modulation of the knocking sound signal was used for such objective evaluations in previous studies, without considering the masking effect. However, the frequency masking effect must be considered for the objective evaluation of the knocking sound. In addition to the frequency masking effect, the temporal masking effect occurs because the period of the knocking sound changes according to the engine speed. Therefore, an evaluation method considering the temporal and frequency masking effect is required to analyze the knocking sound objectively. In this study, an objective evaluation method considering the masking effect was developed based on the masking theory of sound and signal processing techniques. The method was applied successfully for the objective evaluation of the knocking sound of a diesel engine.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zoraghi, Nima; Amiri, Maghsoud; Talebi, Golnaz; Zowghi, Mahdi
2013-12-01
This paper presents a fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (FMCDM) model by integrating both subjective and objective weights for ranking and evaluating the service quality in hotels. The objective method selects weights of criteria through mathematical calculation, while the subjective method uses judgments of decision makers. In this paper, we use a combination of weights obtained by both approaches in evaluating service quality in hotel industries. A real case study that considered ranking five hotels is illustrated. Examples are shown to indicate capabilities of the proposed method.
[Bio-objects and biological methods of space radiation effects evaluation].
Kaminskaia, E V; Nevzgodina, L V; Platova, N G
2009-01-01
The unique conditions of space experiments place austere requirements to bio-objects and biological methods of radiation effects evaluation. The paper discusses suitability of a number of bio-objects varying in stage of evolution and metabolism for space researches aimed to state common patterns of the radiation damage caused by heavy ions (HI), and character of HI-cell interaction. Physical detectors in space experiments of the BIOBLOCK series make it possible to identify bio-objects hit by space HI and to set correlation between HI track topography and biological effect. The paper provides an all-round description of the bio-objects chosen for two BIOBLOCK experiments (population of hydrophyte Wolffia arrhiza (fam. duckweed) and Lactuca sativa seeds) and the method of evaluating effects from single space radiation HI. Direct effects of heavy ions on cells can be determined by the criteria of chromosomal aberrations and delayed morphologic abnormalities. The evaluation results are compared with the data about human blood lymphocytes. Consideration is being given to the procedures of test-objects' treatment and investigation.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
shunhe, Li; jianhua, Rao; lin, Gui; weimin, Zhang; degang, Liu
2017-11-01
The result of remanufacturing evaluation is the basis for judging whether the heavy duty machine tool can remanufacture in the EOL stage of the machine tool lifecycle management.The objectivity and accuracy of evaluation is the key to the evaluation method.In this paper, the catastrophe progression method is introduced into the quantitative evaluation of heavy duty machine tools’ remanufacturing,and the results are modified by the comprehensive adjustment method,which makes the evaluation results accord with the standard of human conventional thinking.Using the catastrophe progression method to establish the heavy duty machine tools’ quantitative evaluation model,to evaluate the retired TK6916 type CNC floor milling-boring machine’s remanufacturing.The evaluation process is simple,high quantification,the result is objective.
A Method for Evaluating Competency in Assessment and Management of Suicide Risk
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Hung, Erick K.; Binder, Renee L.; Fordwood, Samantha R.; Hall, Stephen E.; Cramer, Robert J.; McNiel, Dale E.
2012-01-01
Objective: Although health professionals increasingly are expected to be able to assess and manage patients' risk for suicide, few methods are available to evaluate this competency. This report describes development of a competency-assessment instrument for suicide risk-assessment (CAI-S), and evaluates its use in an objective structured clinical…
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Sahoo, Madhumita; Sahoo, Satiprasad; Dhar, Anirban; Pradhan, Biswajeet
2016-10-01
Groundwater vulnerability assessment has been an accepted practice to identify the zones with relatively increased potential for groundwater contamination. DRASTIC is the most popular secondary information-based vulnerability assessment approach. Original DRASTIC approach considers relative importance of features/sub-features based on subjective weighting/rating values. However variability of features at a smaller scale is not reflected in this subjective vulnerability assessment process. In contrast to the subjective approach, the objective weighting-based methods provide flexibility in weight assignment depending on the variation of the local system. However experts' opinion is not directly considered in the objective weighting-based methods. Thus effectiveness of both subjective and objective weighting-based approaches needs to be evaluated. In the present study, three methods - Entropy information method (E-DRASTIC), Fuzzy pattern recognition method (F-DRASTIC) and Single parameter sensitivity analysis (SA-DRASTIC), were used to modify the weights of the original DRASTIC features to include local variability. Moreover, a grey incidence analysis was used to evaluate the relative performance of subjective (DRASTIC and SA-DRASTIC) and objective (E-DRASTIC and F-DRASTIC) weighting-based methods. The performance of the developed methodology was tested in an urban area of Kanpur City, India. Relative performance of the subjective and objective methods varies with the choice of water quality parameters. This methodology can be applied without/with suitable modification. These evaluations establish the potential applicability of the methodology for general vulnerability assessment in urban context.
A GIS-BASED METHOD FOR MULTI-OBJECTIVE EVALUATION OF PARK VEGETATION. (R824766)
In this paper we describe a method for evaluating the concordance between a set of mapped landscape attributes and a set of quantitatively expressed management priorities. The method has proved to be useful in planning urban green areas, allowing objectively d...
An objective method for a video quality evaluation in a 3DTV service
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wilczewski, Grzegorz
2015-09-01
The following article describes proposed objective method for a 3DTV video quality evaluation, a Compressed Average Image Intensity (CAII) method. Identification of the 3DTV service's content chain nodes enables to design a versatile, objective video quality metric. It is based on an advanced approach to the stereoscopic videostream analysis. Insights towards designed metric mechanisms, as well as the evaluation of performance of the designed video quality metric, in the face of the simulated environmental conditions are herein discussed. As a result, created CAII metric might be effectively used in a variety of service quality assessment applications.
Reinholz, Markus; Schwaiger, Hannah; Poetschke, Julian; Epple, Andreas; Ruzicka, Thomas; Von Braunmühl, Tanja; Gauglitz, Gerd G
2016-12-01
Currently, different types of treatments for pathological scars are available, however, to date, there is no established method of measurement to objectively assess therapeutic outcome. Treatment success is usually evaluated clinically by the physician and patient. Non-invasive imaging techniques, such as HD-OCT (high-definition optical coherence tomography), may represent a valuable diagnostic tool to objectively measure therapeutic outcome. To compare HD-OCT with ultrasound and subjective evaluation tools, such as questionnaires. In total, eight patients with pathological scars were treated in this pilot study with cryotherapy and intralesional steroid injections, and evaluated pre- and post-treatment using clinical examination, photography, sonography, and HD-OCT. The analysis of objective and subjective measuring methods was used to draw direct comparisons. HD-OCT revealed reduced epidermal and dermal thickness of the scar after four treatments with triamcinolone acetonide and cryotherapy. Based on sonography, a total reduction in scar height and reduction in scar depth was demonstrated. Both methods correlated well with the injected amount of triamcinolone acetonide. In addition, a positive correlation between well-established subjective and objective evaluation methods was found. We demonstrate that HD-OCT may be used as an objective diagnostic instrument to evaluate skin thickness under therapy for pathological scars, and serves as a valuable adjunctive device in combination with ultrasound and subjective evaluation tools. This provides additional information for the therapist concerning the quality and success of the applied treatment.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhao, Shijia; Liu, Zongwei; Wang, Yue; Zhao, Fuquan
2017-01-01
Subjectivity usually causes large fluctuations in evaluation results. Many scholars attempt to establish new mathematical methods to make evaluation results consistent with actual objective situations. An improved catastrophe progression method (ICPM) is constructed to overcome the defects of the original method. The improved method combines the merits of the principal component analysis' information coherence and the catastrophe progression method's none index weight and has the advantage of highly objective comprehensive evaluation. Through the systematic analysis of the influencing factors of the automotive industry's core technology capacity, the comprehensive evaluation model is established according to the different roles that different indices play in evaluating the overall goal with a hierarchical structure. Moreover, ICPM is developed for evaluating the automotive industry's core technology capacity for the typical seven countries in the world, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the method.
Evaluation of Moving Object Detection Based on Various Input Noise Using Fixed Camera
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kiaee, N.; Hashemizadeh, E.; Zarrinpanjeh, N.
2017-09-01
Detecting and tracking objects in video has been as a research area of interest in the field of image processing and computer vision. This paper evaluates the performance of a novel method for object detection algorithm in video sequences. This process helps us to know the advantage of this method which is being used. The proposed framework compares the correct and wrong detection percentage of this algorithm. This method was evaluated with the collected data in the field of urban transport which include car and pedestrian in fixed camera situation. The results show that the accuracy of the algorithm will decreases because of image resolution reduction.
Jha, Abhinav K; Song, Na; Caffo, Brian; Frey, Eric C
2015-04-13
Quantitative single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging is emerging as an important tool in clinical studies and biomedical research. There is thus a need for optimization and evaluation of systems and algorithms that are being developed for quantitative SPECT imaging. An appropriate objective method to evaluate these systems is by comparing their performance in the end task that is required in quantitative SPECT imaging, such as estimating the mean activity concentration in a volume of interest (VOI) in a patient image. This objective evaluation can be performed if the true value of the estimated parameter is known, i.e. we have a gold standard. However, very rarely is this gold standard known in human studies. Thus, no-gold-standard techniques to optimize and evaluate systems and algorithms in the absence of gold standard are required. In this work, we developed a no-gold-standard technique to objectively evaluate reconstruction methods used in quantitative SPECT when the parameter to be estimated is the mean activity concentration in a VOI. We studied the performance of the technique with realistic simulated image data generated from an object database consisting of five phantom anatomies with all possible combinations of five sets of organ uptakes, where each anatomy consisted of eight different organ VOIs. Results indicate that the method provided accurate ranking of the reconstruction methods. We also demonstrated the application of consistency checks to test the no-gold-standard output.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gao, Chen; Ding, Zhongan; Deng, Bofa; Yan, Shengteng
2017-10-01
According to the characteristics of electric energy data acquire system (EEDAS), considering the availability of each index data and the connection between the index integrity, establishing the performance evaluation index system of electric energy data acquire system from three aspects as master station system, communication channel, terminal equipment. To determine the comprehensive weight of each index based on triangular fuzzy number analytic hierarchy process with entropy weight method, and both subjective preference and objective attribute are taken into consideration, thus realize the performance comprehensive evaluation more reasonable and reliable. Example analysis shows that, by combination with analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and triangle fuzzy numbers (TFN) to establish comprehensive index evaluation system based on entropy method, the evaluation results not only convenient and practical, but also more objective and accurate.
Quality Evaluation of Raw Moutan Cortex Using the AHP and Gray Correlation-TOPSIS Method
Zhou, Sujuan; Liu, Bo; Meng, Jiang
2017-01-01
Background: Raw Moutan cortex (RMC) is an important Chinese herbal medicine. Comprehensive and objective quality evaluation of Chinese herbal medicine has been one of the most important issues in the modern herbs development. Objective: To evaluate and compare the quality of RMC using the weighted gray correlation- Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method. Materials and Methods: The percentage composition of gallic acid, catechin, oxypaeoniflorin, paeoniflorin, quercetin, benzoylpaeoniflorin, paeonol in different batches of RMC was determined, and then adopting MATLAB programming to construct the gray correlation-TOPSIS assessment model for quality evaluation of RMC. Results: The quality evaluation results of model evaluation and objective evaluation were consistent, reliable, and stable. Conclusion: The model of gray correlation-TOPSIS can be well applied to the quality evaluation of traditional Chinese medicine with multiple components and has broad prospect in application. SUMMARY The experiment tries to construct a model to evaluate the quality of RMC using the weighted gray correlation- Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method. Results show the model is reliable and provide a feasible way in evaluating quality of traditional Chinese medicine with multiple components. PMID:28839384
Evaluation of Low-Voltage Distribution Network Index Based on Improved Principal Component Analysis
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Fan, Hanlu; Gao, Suzhou; Fan, Wenjie; Zhong, Yinfeng; Zhu, Lei
2018-01-01
In order to evaluate the development level of the low-voltage distribution network objectively and scientifically, chromatography analysis method is utilized to construct evaluation index model of low-voltage distribution network. Based on the analysis of principal component and the characteristic of logarithmic distribution of the index data, a logarithmic centralization method is adopted to improve the principal component analysis algorithm. The algorithm can decorrelate and reduce the dimensions of the evaluation model and the comprehensive score has a better dispersion degree. The clustering method is adopted to analyse the comprehensive score because the comprehensive score of the courts is concentrated. Then the stratification evaluation of the courts is realized. An example is given to verify the objectivity and scientificity of the evaluation method.
Evaluation of temperament scoring methods for beef cattle
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
The objective of this study was to evaluate methods of temperament scoring. Crossbred (n=228) calves were evaluated for temperament by an individual evaluator at weaning by two methods of scoring: 1) pen score (1 to 5 scale, with higher scores indicating increasing degree of nervousness, aggressiven...
Deterministic object tracking using Gaussian ringlet and directional edge features
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Krieger, Evan W.; Sidike, Paheding; Aspiras, Theus; Asari, Vijayan K.
2017-10-01
Challenges currently existing for intensity-based histogram feature tracking methods in wide area motion imagery (WAMI) data include object structural information distortions, background variations, and object scale change. These issues are caused by different pavement or ground types and from changing the sensor or altitude. All of these challenges need to be overcome in order to have a robust object tracker, while attaining a computation time appropriate for real-time processing. To achieve this, we present a novel method, Directional Ringlet Intensity Feature Transform (DRIFT), which employs Kirsch kernel filtering for edge features and a ringlet feature mapping for rotational invariance. The method also includes an automatic scale change component to obtain accurate object boundaries and improvements for lowering computation times. We evaluated the DRIFT algorithm on two challenging WAMI datasets, namely Columbus Large Image Format (CLIF) and Large Area Image Recorder (LAIR), to evaluate its robustness and efficiency. Additional evaluations on general tracking video sequences are performed using the Visual Tracker Benchmark and Visual Object Tracking 2014 databases to demonstrate the algorithms ability with additional challenges in long complex sequences including scale change. Experimental results show that the proposed approach yields competitive results compared to state-of-the-art object tracking methods on the testing datasets.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Plyler, Patrick N.; Lowery, Kristy J.; Hamby, Hilary M.; Trine, Timothy D.
2007-01-01
Purpose: The effects of multichannel expansion on the objective and subjective evaluation of 20 listeners fitted binaurally with 4-channel, digital in-the-ear hearing instruments were investigated. Method: Objective evaluations were conducted in quiet using the Connected Speech Test (CST) and in noise using the Hearing in Noise Test (HINT) at 40,…
Comparison of Methods for Evaluating Urban Transportation Alternatives
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
1975-02-01
The objective of the report was to compare five alternative methods for evaluating urban transportation improvement options: unaided judgmental evaluation cost-benefit analysis, cost-effectiveness analysis based on a single measure of effectiveness, ...
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Phillips, Jonathan B.; Coppola, Stephen M.; Jin, Elaine W.; Chen, Ying; Clark, James H.; Mauer, Timothy A.
2009-01-01
Texture appearance is an important component of photographic image quality as well as object recognition. Noise cleaning algorithms are used to decrease sensor noise of digital images, but can hinder texture elements in the process. The Camera Phone Image Quality (CPIQ) initiative of the International Imaging Industry Association (I3A) is developing metrics to quantify texture appearance. Objective and subjective experimental results of the texture metric development are presented in this paper. Eight levels of noise cleaning were applied to ten photographic scenes that included texture elements such as faces, landscapes, architecture, and foliage. Four companies (Aptina Imaging, LLC, Hewlett-Packard, Eastman Kodak Company, and Vista Point Technologies) have performed psychophysical evaluations of overall image quality using one of two methods of evaluation. Both methods presented paired comparisons of images on thin film transistor liquid crystal displays (TFT-LCD), but the display pixel pitch and viewing distance differed. CPIQ has also been developing objective texture metrics and targets that were used to analyze the same eight levels of noise cleaning. The correlation of the subjective and objective test results indicates that texture perception can be modeled with an objective metric. The two methods of psychophysical evaluation exhibited high correlation despite the differences in methodology.
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Ragan, Eric D; Goodall, John R
2014-01-01
Provenance tools can help capture and represent the history of analytic processes. In addition to supporting analytic performance, provenance tools can be used to support memory of the process and communication of the steps to others. Objective evaluation methods are needed to evaluate how well provenance tools support analyst s memory and communication of analytic processes. In this paper, we present several methods for the evaluation of process memory, and we discuss the advantages and limitations of each. We discuss methods for determining a baseline process for comparison, and we describe various methods that can be used to elicit processmore » recall, step ordering, and time estimations. Additionally, we discuss methods for conducting quantitative and qualitative analyses of process memory. By organizing possible memory evaluation methods and providing a meta-analysis of the potential benefits and drawbacks of different approaches, this paper can inform study design and encourage objective evaluation of process memory and communication.« less
2011-04-01
205 RESEARCH DESIGN & METHODS Objective/Hypothesis: The objective of the study is to evaluate the utility of a short hardiness-resilience...problems. Study Design & Methods : This research will evaluate the utility of hardiness, as measured by the DRS-15R, as a screening tool for...may take a toll on defense workers. This research points the way to new approaches for early identification of military workers at risk for stress
Land management planning: a method of evaluating alternatives
Andres Weintraub; Richard Adams; Linda Yellin
1982-01-01
A method is described for developing and evaluating alternatives in land management planning. A structured set of 15 steps provides a framework for such an evaluation. when multiple objectives and uncertainty must be considered in the planning process. The method is consistent with other processes used in organizational evaluation, and allows for the interaction of...
Predicting aged pork quality using a portable raman device
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
Objectives: A need exists for a better on-line evaluation method for pork quality. Raman spectroscopy evaluates structure and composition of food samples, with advantage of being portable, non-invasive and insensitive to water. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the correlation between Ra...
Fuzzy object models for newborn brain MR image segmentation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kobashi, Syoji; Udupa, Jayaram K.
2013-03-01
Newborn brain MR image segmentation is a challenging problem because of variety of size, shape and MR signal although it is the fundamental study for quantitative radiology in brain MR images. Because of the large difference between the adult brain and the newborn brain, it is difficult to directly apply the conventional methods for the newborn brain. Inspired by the original fuzzy object model introduced by Udupa et al. at SPIE Medical Imaging 2011, called fuzzy shape object model (FSOM) here, this paper introduces fuzzy intensity object model (FIOM), and proposes a new image segmentation method which combines the FSOM and FIOM into fuzzy connected (FC) image segmentation. The fuzzy object models are built from training datasets in which the cerebral parenchyma is delineated by experts. After registering FSOM with the evaluating image, the proposed method roughly recognizes the cerebral parenchyma region based on a prior knowledge of location, shape, and the MR signal given by the registered FSOM and FIOM. Then, FC image segmentation delineates the cerebral parenchyma using the fuzzy object models. The proposed method has been evaluated using 9 newborn brain MR images using the leave-one-out strategy. The revised age was between -1 and 2 months. Quantitative evaluation using false positive volume fraction (FPVF) and false negative volume fraction (FNVF) has been conducted. Using the evaluation data, a FPVF of 0.75% and FNVF of 3.75% were achieved. More data collection and testing are underway.
Evaluating an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) Adapted for Social Work
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Bogo, Marion; Regehr, Cheryl; Katz, Ellen; Logie, Carmen; Tufford, Lea; Litvack, Andrea
2012-01-01
Objectives: To evaluate an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) adapted for social work in a lab course and examine the degree to which it predicts competence in the practicum. Method: 125 Masters students participated in a one-scenario OSCE and wrote responses to standardized reflection questions. OSCE performance and reflections were…
Contini, Erika W; Wardle, Susan G; Carlson, Thomas A
2017-10-01
Visual object recognition is a complex, dynamic process. Multivariate pattern analysis methods, such as decoding, have begun to reveal how the brain processes complex visual information. Recently, temporal decoding methods for EEG and MEG have offered the potential to evaluate the temporal dynamics of object recognition. Here we review the contribution of M/EEG time-series decoding methods to understanding visual object recognition in the human brain. Consistent with the current understanding of the visual processing hierarchy, low-level visual features dominate decodable object representations early in the time-course, with more abstract representations related to object category emerging later. A key finding is that the time-course of object processing is highly dynamic and rapidly evolving, with limited temporal generalisation of decodable information. Several studies have examined the emergence of object category structure, and we consider to what degree category decoding can be explained by sensitivity to low-level visual features. Finally, we evaluate recent work attempting to link human behaviour to the neural time-course of object processing. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Project Pride Evaluation Report.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Jennewein, Marilyn; And Others
Project PRIDE (Probe, Research, Inquire, Discover, and Evaluate) is evaluated in this report to provide data to be used as a learning tool for project staff and student participants. Major objectives of the project are to provide an inter-disciplinary, objective approach to the study of the American heritage, and to incorporate methods and…
Entrepreneur environment management behavior evaluation method derived from environmental economy.
Zhang, Lili; Hou, Xilin; Xi, Fengru
2013-12-01
Evaluation system can encourage and guide entrepreneurs, and impel them to perform well in environment management. An evaluation method based on advantage structure is established. It is used to analyze entrepreneur environment management behavior in China. Entrepreneur environment management behavior evaluation index system is constructed based on empirical research. Evaluation method of entrepreneurs is put forward, from the point of objective programming-theory to alert entrepreneurs concerned to think much of it, which means to take minimized objective function as comprehensive evaluation result and identify disadvantage structure pattern. Application research shows that overall behavior of Chinese entrepreneurs environmental management are good, specially, environment strategic behavior are best, environmental management behavior are second, cultural behavior ranks last. Application results show the efficiency and feasibility of this method. Copyright © 2013 The Research Centre for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
A Mixed-Methods Longitudinal Evaluation of a One-Day Mental Health Wellness Intervention
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Doyle, Louise; de Vries, Jan; Higgins, Agnes; Keogh, Brian; McBennett, Padraig; O'Shea, Marié T.
2017-01-01
Objectives: This study evaluated the impact of a one-day mental health Wellness Workshop on participants' mental health and attitudes towards mental health. Design: Convergent, longitudinal mixed-methods approach. Setting: The study evaluated Wellness Workshops which took place throughout the Republic of Ireland. Method: Questionnaires measuring…
Evaluation of winter pothole patching methods.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2014-01-01
The main objective of this study was to evaluate the performance and cost-effectiveness of the tow-behind combination : infrared asphalt heater/reclaimer patching method and compare it to the throw and roll and spray injection methods. To : achieve t...
Evaluating a Lecture on Cultural Competence in the Medical School Preclinical Curriculum
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Lim, Russell F.; Wegelin, Jacob; Hua, Lisa L.; Kramer, Elizabeth J.; Servis, Mark E.
2008-01-01
Objective: The authors aim to evaluate the effectiveness of a presentation designed to increase cultural competence. Methods: A measure was developed to evaluate the attainment of knowledge and attitude objectives by first-year medical students who watched a presentation on the effect of culture on the doctor-patient relationship and effective…
Laterally modulated excitation microscopy: improvement of resolution by using a diffraction grating
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Heintzmann, Rainer; Cremer, Christoph G.
1999-01-01
High spatial frequencies in the illuminating light of microscopes lead to a shift of the object spatial frequencies detectable through the objective lens. If a suitable procedure is found for evaluation of the measured data, a microscopic image with a higher resolution than under flat illumination can be obtained. A simple method for generation of a laterally modulated illumination pattern is discussed here. A specially constructed diffraction grating was inserted in the illumination beam path at the conjugate object plane (position of the adjustable aperture) and projected through the objective into the object. Microscopic beads were imaged with this method and evaluated with an algorithm based on the structure of the Fourier space. The results indicate an improvement of resolution.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2015-11-01
The objectives were to evaluate the ability of different NDE methods to detect and quantify : defects associated with corrosion of steel reinforcement and grout defects in post-tensioning : applications; and to evaluate the effectiveness of selected ...
Field Evaluation of Advanced Methods of Subsurface Exploration for Transit Tunneling
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
1980-06-01
This report presents the results of a field evaluation of advanced methods of subsurface exploration on an ongoing urban rapid transit tunneling project. The objective of this study is to evaluate, through a field demonstration project, the feasibili...
Object Detection and Classification by Decision-Level Fusion for Intelligent Vehicle Systems.
Oh, Sang-Il; Kang, Hang-Bong
2017-01-22
To understand driving environments effectively, it is important to achieve accurate detection and classification of objects detected by sensor-based intelligent vehicle systems, which are significantly important tasks. Object detection is performed for the localization of objects, whereas object classification recognizes object classes from detected object regions. For accurate object detection and classification, fusing multiple sensor information into a key component of the representation and perception processes is necessary. In this paper, we propose a new object-detection and classification method using decision-level fusion. We fuse the classification outputs from independent unary classifiers, such as 3D point clouds and image data using a convolutional neural network (CNN). The unary classifiers for the two sensors are the CNN with five layers, which use more than two pre-trained convolutional layers to consider local to global features as data representation. To represent data using convolutional layers, we apply region of interest (ROI) pooling to the outputs of each layer on the object candidate regions generated using object proposal generation to realize color flattening and semantic grouping for charge-coupled device and Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) sensors. We evaluate our proposed method on a KITTI benchmark dataset to detect and classify three object classes: cars, pedestrians and cyclists. The evaluation results show that the proposed method achieves better performance than the previous methods. Our proposed method extracted approximately 500 proposals on a 1226 × 370 image, whereas the original selective search method extracted approximately 10 6 × n proposals. We obtained classification performance with 77.72% mean average precision over the entirety of the classes in the moderate detection level of the KITTI benchmark dataset.
Object Detection and Classification by Decision-Level Fusion for Intelligent Vehicle Systems
Oh, Sang-Il; Kang, Hang-Bong
2017-01-01
To understand driving environments effectively, it is important to achieve accurate detection and classification of objects detected by sensor-based intelligent vehicle systems, which are significantly important tasks. Object detection is performed for the localization of objects, whereas object classification recognizes object classes from detected object regions. For accurate object detection and classification, fusing multiple sensor information into a key component of the representation and perception processes is necessary. In this paper, we propose a new object-detection and classification method using decision-level fusion. We fuse the classification outputs from independent unary classifiers, such as 3D point clouds and image data using a convolutional neural network (CNN). The unary classifiers for the two sensors are the CNN with five layers, which use more than two pre-trained convolutional layers to consider local to global features as data representation. To represent data using convolutional layers, we apply region of interest (ROI) pooling to the outputs of each layer on the object candidate regions generated using object proposal generation to realize color flattening and semantic grouping for charge-coupled device and Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) sensors. We evaluate our proposed method on a KITTI benchmark dataset to detect and classify three object classes: cars, pedestrians and cyclists. The evaluation results show that the proposed method achieves better performance than the previous methods. Our proposed method extracted approximately 500 proposals on a 1226×370 image, whereas the original selective search method extracted approximately 106×n proposals. We obtained classification performance with 77.72% mean average precision over the entirety of the classes in the moderate detection level of the KITTI benchmark dataset. PMID:28117742
Checking an integrated model of web accessibility and usability evaluation for disabled people.
Federici, Stefano; Micangeli, Andrea; Ruspantini, Irene; Borgianni, Stefano; Corradi, Fabrizio; Pasqualotto, Emanuele; Olivetti Belardinelli, Marta
2005-07-08
A combined objective-oriented and subjective-oriented method for evaluating accessibility and usability of web pages for students with disability was tested. The objective-oriented approach is devoted to verifying the conformity of interfaces to standard rules stated by national and international organizations responsible for web technology standardization, such as W3C. Conversely, the subjective-oriented approach allows assessing how the final users interact with the artificial system, accessing levels of user satisfaction based on personal factors and environmental barriers. Five kinds of measurements were applied as objective-oriented and subjective-oriented tests. Objective-oriented evaluations were performed on the Help Desk web page for students with disability, included in the website of a large Italian state university. Subjective-oriented tests were administered to 19 students labeled as disabled on the basis of their own declaration at the University enrolment: 13 students were tested by means of the SUMI test and six students by means of the 'Cooperative evaluation'. Objective-oriented and subjective-oriented methods highlighted different and sometimes conflicting results. Both methods have pointed out much more consistency regarding levels of accessibility than of usability. Since usability is largely affected by individual differences in user's own (dis)abilities, subjective-oriented measures underscored the fact that blind students encountered much more web surfing difficulties.
[Study on objectively evaluating skin aging according to areas of skin texture].
Shan, Gaixin; Gan, Ping; He, Ling; Sun, Lu; Li, Qiannan; Jiang, Zheng; He, Xiangqian
2015-02-01
Skin aging principles play important roles in skin disease diagnosis, the evaluation of skin cosmetic effect, forensic identification and age identification in sports competition, etc. This paper proposes a new method to evaluate the skin aging objectively and quantitatively by skin texture area. Firstly, the enlarged skin image was acquired. Then, the skin texture image was segmented by using the iterative threshold method, and the skin ridge image was extracted according to the watershed algorithm. Finally, the skin ridge areas of the skin texture were extracted. The experiment data showed that the average areas of skin ridges, of both men and women, had a good correlation with age (the correlation coefficient r of male was 0.938, and the correlation coefficient r of female was 0.922), and skin texture area and age regression curve showed that the skin texture area increased with age. Therefore, it is effective to evaluate skin aging objectively by the new method presented in this paper.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zheng, Y.; Chen, J.
2017-09-01
A modified multi-objective particle swarm optimization method is proposed for obtaining Pareto-optimal solutions effectively. Different from traditional multi-objective particle swarm optimization methods, Kriging meta-models and the trapezoid index are introduced and integrated with the traditional one. Kriging meta-models are built to match expensive or black-box functions. By applying Kriging meta-models, function evaluation numbers are decreased and the boundary Pareto-optimal solutions are identified rapidly. For bi-objective optimization problems, the trapezoid index is calculated as the sum of the trapezoid's area formed by the Pareto-optimal solutions and one objective axis. It can serve as a measure whether the Pareto-optimal solutions converge to the Pareto front. Illustrative examples indicate that to obtain Pareto-optimal solutions, the method proposed needs fewer function evaluations than the traditional multi-objective particle swarm optimization method and the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm II method, and both the accuracy and the computational efficiency are improved. The proposed method is also applied to the design of a deepwater composite riser example in which the structural performances are calculated by numerical analysis. The design aim was to enhance the tension strength and minimize the cost. Under the buckling constraint, the optimal trade-off of tensile strength and material volume is obtained. The results demonstrated that the proposed method can effectively deal with multi-objective optimizations with black-box functions.
Method and apparatus for evaluating structural weakness in polymer matrix composites
Wachter, E.A.; Fisher, W.G.
1996-01-09
A method and apparatus for evaluating structural weaknesses in polymer matrix composites is described. An object to be studied is illuminated with laser radiation and fluorescence emanating therefrom is collected and filtered. The fluorescence is then imaged and the image is studied to determine fluorescence intensity over the surface of the object being studied and the wavelength of maximum fluorescent intensity. Such images provide a map of the structural integrity of the part being studied and weaknesses, particularly weaknesses created by exposure of the object to heat, are readily visible in the image. 6 figs.
Method and apparatus for evaluating structural weakness in polymer matrix composites
Wachter, Eric A.; Fisher, Walter G.
1996-01-01
A method and apparatus for evaluating structural weaknesses in polymer matrix composites is described. An object to be studied is illuminated with laser radiation and fluorescence emanating therefrom is collected and filtered. The fluorescence is then imaged and the image is studied to determine fluorescence intensity over the surface of the object being studied and the wavelength of maximum fluorescent intensity. Such images provide a map of the structural integrity of the part being studied and weaknesses, particularly weaknesses created by exposure of the object to heat, are readily visible in the image.
Evaluation of methods of temperament scoring for beef cattle
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
Temperament can negatively affect various production traits, including live weight, ADG, DMI, conception rates and carcass weight. The objective of this research study was to evaluate temperament scoring methods in beef cattle. Crossbred (n = 228) calves were evaluated for temperament at weaning by ...
Study on process evaluation model of students' learning in practical course
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Huang, Jie; Liang, Pei; Shen, Wei-min; Ye, Youxiang
2017-08-01
In practical course teaching based on project object method, the traditional evaluation methods include class attendance, assignments and exams fails to give incentives to undergraduate students to learn innovatively and autonomously. In this paper, the element such as creative innovation, teamwork, document and reporting were put into process evaluation methods, and a process evaluation model was set up. Educational practice shows that the evaluation model makes process evaluation of students' learning more comprehensive, accurate, and fairly.
Odendaal, Willem; Atkins, Salla; Lewin, Simon
2016-12-15
Formative programme evaluations assess intervention implementation processes, and are seen widely as a way of unlocking the 'black box' of any programme in order to explore and understand why a programme functions as it does. However, few critical assessments of the methods used in such evaluations are available, and there are especially few that reflect on how well the evaluation achieved its objectives. This paper describes a formative evaluation of a community-based lay health worker programme for TB and HIV/AIDS clients across three low-income communities in South Africa. It assesses each of the methods used in relation to the evaluation objectives, and offers suggestions on ways of optimising the use of multiple, mixed-methods within formative evaluations of complex health system interventions. The evaluation's qualitative methods comprised interviews, focus groups, observations and diary keeping. Quantitative methods included a time-and-motion study of the lay health workers' scope of practice and a client survey. The authors conceptualised and conducted the evaluation, and through iterative discussions, assessed the methods used and their results. Overall, the evaluation highlighted programme issues and insights beyond the reach of traditional single methods evaluations. The strengths of the multiple, mixed-methods in this evaluation included a detailed description and nuanced understanding of the programme and its implementation, and triangulation of the perspectives and experiences of clients, lay health workers, and programme managers. However, the use of multiple methods needs to be carefully planned and implemented as this approach can overstretch the logistic and analytic resources of an evaluation. For complex interventions, formative evaluation designs including multiple qualitative and quantitative methods hold distinct advantages over single method evaluations. However, their value is not in the number of methods used, but in how each method matches the evaluation questions and the scientific integrity with which the methods are selected and implemented.
Object-based change detection method using refined Markov random field
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Peng, Daifeng; Zhang, Yongjun
2017-01-01
In order to fully consider the local spatial constraints between neighboring objects in object-based change detection (OBCD), an OBCD approach is presented by introducing a refined Markov random field (MRF). First, two periods of images are stacked and segmented to produce image objects. Second, object spectral and textual histogram features are extracted and G-statistic is implemented to measure the distance among different histogram distributions. Meanwhile, object heterogeneity is calculated by combining spectral and textual histogram distance using adaptive weight. Third, an expectation-maximization algorithm is applied for determining the change category of each object and the initial change map is then generated. Finally, a refined change map is produced by employing the proposed refined object-based MRF method. Three experiments were conducted and compared with some state-of-the-art unsupervised OBCD methods to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method obtains the highest accuracy among the methods used in this paper, which confirms its validness and effectiveness in OBCD.
Computerized quantitative evaluation of mammographic accreditation phantom images
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Lee, Yongbum; Tsai, Du-Yih; Shinohara, Norimitsu
2010-12-15
Purpose: The objective was to develop and investigate an automated scoring scheme of the American College of Radiology (ACR) mammographic accreditation phantom (RMI 156, Middleton, WI) images. Methods: The developed method consisted of background subtraction, determination of region of interest, classification of fiber and mass objects by Mahalanobis distance, detection of specks by template matching, and rule-based scoring. Fifty-one phantom images were collected from 51 facilities for this study (one facility provided one image). A medical physicist and two radiologic technologists also scored the images. The human and computerized scores were compared. Results: In terms of meeting the ACR's criteria,more » the accuracies of the developed method for computerized evaluation of fiber, mass, and speck were 90%, 80%, and 98%, respectively. Contingency table analysis revealed significant association between observer and computer scores for microcalcifications (p<5%) but not for masses and fibers. Conclusions: The developed method may achieve a stable assessment of visibility for test objects in mammographic accreditation phantom image in whether the phantom image meets the ACR's criteria in the evaluation test, although there is room left for improvement in the approach for fiber and mass objects.« less
Poirier, Jean-Nicolas; Cooley, Jeffrey R; Wessely, Michelle; Guebert, Gary M; Petrocco-Napuli, Kristina
2014-10-01
Objective : The purpose of this study was to evaluate the perceived effectiveness and learning potential of 3 Web-based educational methods in a postgraduate radiology setting. Methods : Three chiropractic radiology faculty from diverse geographic locations led mini-courses using asynchronous discussion boards, synchronous Web conferencing, and asynchronous voice-over case presentations formatted for Web viewing. At the conclusion of each course, participants filled out a 14-question survey (using a 5-point Likert scale) designed to evaluate the effectiveness of each method in achieving specified course objectives and goals and their satisfaction when considering the learning potential of each method. The mean, standard deviation, and percentage agreements were tabulated. Results : Twenty, 15, and 10 participants completed the discussion board, Web conferencing, and case presentation surveys, respectively. All educational methods demonstrated a high level of agreement regarding the course objective (total mean rating >4.1). The case presentations had the highest overall rating for achieving the course goals; however, all but one method still had total mean ratings >4.0 and overall agreement levels of 70%-100%. The strongest potential for interactive learning was found with Web conferencing and discussion boards, while case presentations rated very low in this regard. Conclusions : The perceived effectiveness in achieving the course objective and goals was high for each method. Residency-based distance education may be a beneficial adjunct to current methods of training, allowing for international collaboration. When considering all aspects tested, there does not appear to be a clear advantage to any one method. Utilizing various methods may be most appropriate.
Evaluation of bridge deck delamination investigation methods
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
1998-07-01
An objective view of the relative advantages and limitations of the nondestructive, testing and evaluation methods that currently used in the inspection of bridge decks is presented and discussed. The three main nondestructive testing technologies th...
Song, Qi; Chen, Mingqing; Bai, Junjie; Sonka, Milan; Wu, Xiaodong
2011-01-01
Multi-object segmentation with mutual interaction is a challenging task in medical image analysis. We report a novel solution to a segmentation problem, in which target objects of arbitrary shape mutually interact with terrain-like surfaces, which widely exists in the medical imaging field. The approach incorporates context information used during simultaneous segmentation of multiple objects. The object-surface interaction information is encoded by adding weighted inter-graph arcs to our graph model. A globally optimal solution is achieved by solving a single maximum flow problem in a low-order polynomial time. The performance of the method was evaluated in robust delineation of lung tumors in megavoltage cone-beam CT images in comparison with an expert-defined independent standard. The evaluation showed that our method generated highly accurate tumor segmentations. Compared with the conventional graph-cut method, our new approach provided significantly better results (p < 0.001). The Dice coefficient obtained by the conventional graph-cut approach (0.76 +/- 0.10) was improved to 0.84 +/- 0.05 when employing our new method for pulmonary tumor segmentation.
Cost analysis of objective resident cataract surgery assessments.
Nandigam, Kiran; Soh, Jonathan; Gensheimer, William G; Ghazi, Ahmed; Khalifa, Yousuf M
2015-05-01
To compare 8 ophthalmology resident surgical training tools to determine which is most cost effective. University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York, USA. Retrospective evaluation of technology. A cost-analysis model was created to compile all relevant costs in running each tool in a medium-sized ophthalmology program. Quantitative cost estimates were obtained based on cost of tools, cost of time in evaluations, and supply and maintenance costs. For wet laboratory simulation, Eyesi was the least expensive cataract surgery simulation method; however, it is only capable of evaluating simulated cataract surgery rehearsal and requires supplementation with other evaluative methods for operating room performance and for noncataract wet lab training and evaluation. The most expensive training tool was the Eye Surgical Skills Assessment Test (ESSAT). The 2 most affordable methods for resident evaluation in operating room performance were the Objective Assessment of Skills in Intraocular Surgery (OASIS) and Global Rating Assessment of Skills in Intraocular Surgery (GRASIS). Cost-based analysis of ophthalmology resident surgical training tools are needed so residency programs can implement tools that are valid, reliable, objective, and cost effective. There is no perfect training system at this time. Copyright © 2015 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Use of adjoint methods in the probabilistic finite element approach to fracture mechanics
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Liu, Wing Kam; Besterfield, Glen; Lawrence, Mark; Belytschko, Ted
1988-01-01
The adjoint method approach to probabilistic finite element methods (PFEM) is presented. When the number of objective functions is small compared to the number of random variables, the adjoint method is far superior to the direct method in evaluating the objective function derivatives with respect to the random variables. The PFEM is extended to probabilistic fracture mechanics (PFM) using an element which has the near crack-tip singular strain field embedded. Since only two objective functions (i.e., mode I and II stress intensity factors) are needed for PFM, the adjoint method is well suited.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Chibnall, John T.; Blaskiewicz, Robert J.
2008-01-01
Objective: The authors examine associations of personality characteristics, National Board of Medical Examiners subject examination performance, and Objective Structured Clinical Examination performance with clinical evaluations of third-year medical students in a psychiatry clerkship. Methods: Students completed the Revised NEO Personality…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Mills, Myron L.
1988-01-01
A system developed for more efficient evaluation of graduate medical students' progress uses numerical scoring and a microcomputer database management system as an alternative to manual methods to produce accurate, objective, and meaningful summaries of resident evaluations. (Author/MSE)
Objective Setting Materials. No. 158.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Goddu, Roland
Basic concepts of management by objectives are presented for the school principal interested in turning the idea of educational innovation into the fact of educational innovation. The difference between objectives (ideas) and outcomes (events, products, achievements) is discussed, and methods for developing, writing, and evaluating objectives are…
Assessment of Factors Resulting in Abuse Evaluations in Young Children with Minor Head Trauma
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Anderst, James D.
2008-01-01
Objective: The primary objective was to determine which of the examined factors prompted physicians to initiate a further abuse evaluation in young children with minor head injury. The recording of important historical elements in the charts of these patients was also evaluated. Methods: Charts of 349 children less than 3 years of age with minor…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Glass, Gene V.
The objective of evaluation in education is distinct from the objectives of measurement and assessment or testing. Accordingly, a synthesis of the three procedures into a single theory is not viable. Evaluation is a method of gathering empirical evidence for decision making by answering questions about the worth of educational materials,…
Systematic Evaluation of Aggressive Air Sampling for Bacillus ...
Report The primary objectives of this project were to evaluate the Aggressive Air Sampling (AAS) method compared to currently used surface sampling methods and to determine if AAS is a viable option for sampling Bacillus anthracis spores.
Evaluation of Surface Sampling for Bacillus Spores Using ...
Report The primary objectives of this project were to evaluate the Aggressive Air Sampling (AAS) method compared to currently used surface sampling methods and to determine if AAS is a viable option for sampling Bacillus anthracis spores.
Grape colour phenotyping: development of a method based on the reflectance spectrum.
Rustioni, Laura; Basilico, Roberto; Fiori, Simone; Leoni, Alessandra; Maghradze, David; Failla, Osvaldo
2013-01-01
The colour of fruit is an important quality factor for cultivar classification and phenotyping techniques. Besides the subjective visual evaluation, new instruments and techniques can be used. This work aims at developping an objective, fast, easy and non-destructive method as a useful support for evaluating grapes' colour under different cultural and environmental conditions, as well as for breeding process and germplasm evaluation, supporting the plant characterization and the biodiversity preservation. Colours of 120 grape varieties were studied using reflectance spectra. The classification was realized using cluster and discriminant analysis. Reflectance of the whole berries surface was also compared with absorption properties of single skin extracts. A phenotyping method based on the reflectance spectra was developed, producing reliable colour classifications. A cultivar-independent index for pigment content evaluation has also been obtained. This work allowed the classification of the berry colour using an objective method. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
2017-11-01
ARL-TR-8205 ● NOV 2017 US Army Research Laboratory Strategies for Characterizing the Sensory Environment: Objective and...Subjective Evaluation Methods using the VisiSonic Real Space 64/5 Audio-Visual Panoramic Camera By Joseph McArdle, Ashley Foots, Chris Stachowiak, and...return it to the originator. ARL-TR-8205 ● NOV 2017 US Army Research Laboratory Strategies for Characterizing the Sensory
Visualizing Similarity of Appearance by Arrangement of Cards
Nakatsuji, Nao; Ihara, Hisayasu; Seno, Takeharu; Ito, Hiroshi
2016-01-01
This study proposes a novel method to extract the configuration of the psychological space by directly measuring subjects' similarity rating without computational work. Although multidimensional scaling (MDS) is well-known as a conventional method for extracting the psychological space, the method requires many pairwise evaluations. The times taken for evaluations increase in proportion to the square of the number of objects in MDS. The proposed method asks subjects to arrange cards on a poster sheet according to the degree of similarity of the objects. To compare the performance of the proposed method with the conventional one, we developed similarity maps of typefaces through the proposed method and through non-metric MDS. We calculated the trace correlation coefficient among all combinations of the configuration for both methods to evaluate the degree of similarity in the obtained configurations. The threshold value of trace correlation coefficient for statistically discriminating similar configuration was decided based on random data. The ratio of the trace correlation coefficient exceeding the threshold value was 62.0% so that the configurations of the typefaces obtained by the proposed method closely resembled those obtained by non-metric MDS. The required duration for the proposed method was approximately one third of the non-metric MDS's duration. In addition, all distances between objects in all the data for both methods were calculated. The frequency for the short distance in the proposed method was lower than that of the non-metric MDS so that a relatively small difference was likely to be emphasized among objects in the configuration by the proposed method. The card arrangement method we here propose, thus serves as a easier and time-saving tool to obtain psychological structures in the fields related to similarity of appearance. PMID:27242611
Jung, HaRim; Song, MoonBae; Youn, Hee Yong; Kim, Ung Mo
2015-09-18
A content-matched (CM) rangemonitoring query overmoving objects continually retrieves the moving objects (i) whose non-spatial attribute values are matched to given non-spatial query values; and (ii) that are currently located within a given spatial query range. In this paper, we propose a new query indexing structure, called the group-aware query region tree (GQR-tree) for efficient evaluation of CMrange monitoring queries. The primary role of the GQR-tree is to help the server leverage the computational capabilities of moving objects in order to improve the system performance in terms of the wireless communication cost and server workload. Through a series of comprehensive simulations, we verify the superiority of the GQR-tree method over the existing methods.
Blank, Melissa D.; Breland, Alison B.; Cobb, Caroline O.; Spindle, Tory; Ramôa, Carolina; Eissenberg, Thomas
2017-01-01
Objective Evaluating electronic cigarettes (ECIGs) in the clinical laboratory is critical to understanding their effects. However, laboratory evaluation of ECIGs can be challenging, as they are a novel, varied, and evolving class of products. The objective of this paper is to describe some methodological challenges to the clinical laboratory evaluation of ECIGs. Methods The authors gathered information about challenges involved in the laboratory evaluation of ECIGs. Challenges were categorized and solutions provided when possible. Results Methods used to study combustible cigarettes may need to be adapted to account for ECIG novelty and differences within the class. Challenges to ECIG evaluation can include issues related to 1) identification of ECIG devices and liquids, 2) determination of short -term ECIG abstinence, 3) measurement of use behavior, and 4) assessment of dependence. These challenges are discussed, and some suggestions to inform ECIG evaluation using clinical laboratory methods are provided. Conclusions Awareness of challenges and developing, validating, and reporting methods used to address them aids interpretation of results and replication efforts, thus enhancing the rigor of science used to protect public health through appropriate, empirically-based, ECIG regulation. PMID:28819633
Do Simulations Enhance Student Learning? An Empirical Evaluation of an IR Simulation
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Shellman, Stephen M.; Turan, Kursad
2006-01-01
There is a nascent literature on the question of whether active learning methods, and in particular simulation methods, enhance student learning. In this article, the authors evaluate the utility of an international relations simulation in enhancing learning objectives. Student evaluations provide evidence that the simulation process enhances…
[Information value of "additional tasks" method to evaluate pilot's work load].
Gorbunov, V V
2005-01-01
"Additional task" method was used to evaluate pilot's work load in prolonged flight. Calculated through durations of latent periods of motor responses, quantitative criterion of work load is more informative for objective evaluation of pilot's involvement in his piloting functions rather than of other registered parameters.
ACORN's Accelerated Income Redistribution Project: A Program Evaluation
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Brooks, Fred; Russell, Daniel; Fisher, Robert
2006-01-01
Objective: This study evaluated the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now's (ACORN) efforts to increase the uptake of families claiming the earned income tax credit through door-to-door canvassing and managing free tax preparation clinics in three pilot cities. Method: The mixed-method program evaluation included administrative…
Evaluation of Professional Role Competency during Psychiatry Residency
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Grujich, Nikola N.; Razmy, Ajmal; Zaretsky, Ari; Styra, Rima G.; Sockalingam, Sanjeev
2012-01-01
Objective: The authors sought to determine psychiatry residents' perceptions on the current method of evaluating professional role competency and the use of multi-source feedback (MSF) as an assessment tool. Method: Authors disseminated a structured, anonymous survey to 128 University of Toronto psychiatry residents, evaluating the current mode of…
Learning Content and Software Evaluation and Personalisation Problems
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Kurilovas, Eugenijus; Serikoviene, Silvija
2010-01-01
The paper aims to analyse several scientific approaches how to evaluate, implement or choose learning content and software suitable for personalised users/learners needs. Learning objects metadata customisation method as well as the Method of multiple criteria evaluation and optimisation of learning software represented by the experts' additive…
Comparative analysis of autofocus functions in digital in-line phase-shifting holography.
Fonseca, Elsa S R; Fiadeiro, Paulo T; Pereira, Manuela; Pinheiro, António
2016-09-20
Numerical reconstruction of digital holograms relies on a precise knowledge of the original object position. However, there are a number of relevant applications where this parameter is not known in advance and an efficient autofocusing method is required. This paper addresses the problem of finding optimal focusing methods for use in reconstruction of digital holograms of macroscopic amplitude and phase objects, using digital in-line phase-shifting holography in transmission mode. Fifteen autofocus measures, including spatial-, spectral-, and sparsity-based methods, were evaluated for both synthetic and experimental holograms. The Fresnel transform and the angular spectrum reconstruction methods were compared. Evaluation criteria included unimodality, accuracy, resolution, and computational cost. Autofocusing under angular spectrum propagation tends to perform better with respect to accuracy and unimodality criteria. Phase objects are, generally, more difficult to focus than amplitude objects. The normalized variance, the standard correlation, and the Tenenbaum gradient are the most reliable spatial-based metrics, combining computational efficiency with good accuracy and resolution. A good trade-off between focus performance and computational cost was found for the Fresnelet sparsity method.
From fields to objects: A review of geographic boundary analysis
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Jacquez, G. M.; Maruca, S.; Fortin, M.-J.
Geographic boundary analysis is a relatively new approach unfamiliar to many spatial analysts. It is best viewed as a technique for defining objects - geographic boundaries - on spatial fields, and for evaluating the statistical significance of characteristics of those boundary objects. This is accomplished using null spatial models representative of the spatial processes expected in the absence of boundary-generating phenomena. Close ties to the object-field dialectic eminently suit boundary analysis to GIS data. The majority of existing spatial methods are field-based in that they describe, estimate, or predict how attributes (variables defining the field) vary through geographic space. Such methods are appropriate for field representations but not object representations. As the object-field paradigm gains currency in geographic information science, appropriate techniques for the statistical analysis of objects are required. The methods reviewed in this paper are a promising foundation. Geographic boundary analysis is clearly a valuable addition to the spatial statistical toolbox. This paper presents the philosophy of, and motivations for geographic boundary analysis. It defines commonly used statistics for quantifying boundaries and their characteristics, as well as simulation procedures for evaluating their significance. We review applications of these techniques, with the objective of making this promising approach accessible to the GIS-spatial analysis community. We also describe the implementation of these methods within geographic boundary analysis software: GEM.
Objective evaluation of antitussive agents under clinical conditions.
Beumer, H M; Hardonk, H J; Boter, J; van Eijnsbergen, B
1976-01-01
A new method for objective assessment of cough under normal or pathological conditions is described. Thoracic coughing can be discriminated from any other pressure wave because of its relatively high frequency. This method was applied in a double blind crossover trial in 18 patients with respiratory disease.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Hulka, Barbara S.; And Others
The objective of research in contraceptive evaluation is to improve the ability of individuals to choose contraceptive methods best suited to their needs and circumstances and to provide information that will lead to the development of safer and more effective methods. There are usually three considerations in judging the importance of a method of…
On the evaluation of segmentation editing tools
Heckel, Frank; Moltz, Jan H.; Meine, Hans; Geisler, Benjamin; Kießling, Andreas; D’Anastasi, Melvin; dos Santos, Daniel Pinto; Theruvath, Ashok Joseph; Hahn, Horst K.
2014-01-01
Abstract. Efficient segmentation editing tools are important components in the segmentation process, as no automatic methods exist that always generate sufficient results. Evaluating segmentation editing algorithms is challenging, because their quality depends on the user’s subjective impression. So far, no established methods for an objective, comprehensive evaluation of such tools exist and, particularly, intermediate segmentation results are not taken into account. We discuss the evaluation of editing algorithms in the context of tumor segmentation in computed tomography. We propose a rating scheme to qualitatively measure the accuracy and efficiency of editing tools in user studies. In order to objectively summarize the overall quality, we propose two scores based on the subjective rating and the quantified segmentation quality over time. Finally, a simulation-based evaluation approach is discussed, which allows a more reproducible evaluation without the need for human input. This automated evaluation complements user studies, allowing a more convincing evaluation, particularly during development, where frequent user studies are not possible. The proposed methods have been used to evaluate two dedicated editing algorithms on 131 representative tumor segmentations. We show how the comparison of editing algorithms benefits from the proposed methods. Our results also show the correlation of the suggested quality score with the qualitative ratings. PMID:26158063
Developing and using a rubric for evaluating evidence-based medicine point-of-care tools
Foster, Margaret J
2011-01-01
Objective: The research sought to establish a rubric for evaluating evidence-based medicine (EBM) point-of-care tools in a health sciences library. Methods: The authors searched the literature for EBM tool evaluations and found that most previous reviews were designed to evaluate the ability of an EBM tool to answer a clinical question. The researchers' goal was to develop and complete rubrics for assessing these tools based on criteria for a general evaluation of tools (reviewing content, search options, quality control, and grading) and criteria for an evaluation of clinical summaries (searching tools for treatments of common diagnoses and evaluating summaries for quality control). Results: Differences between EBM tools' options, content coverage, and usability were minimal. However, the products' methods for locating and grading evidence varied widely in transparency and process. Conclusions: As EBM tools are constantly updating and evolving, evaluation of these tools needs to be conducted frequently. Standards for evaluating EBM tools need to be established, with one method being the use of objective rubrics. In addition, EBM tools need to provide more information about authorship, reviewers, methods for evidence collection, and grading system employed. PMID:21753917
Towards standardized assessment of endoscope optical performance: geometric distortion
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, Quanzeng; Desai, Viraj N.; Ngo, Ying Z.; Cheng, Wei-Chung; Pfefer, Joshua
2013-12-01
Technological advances in endoscopes, such as capsule, ultrathin and disposable devices, promise significant improvements in safety, clinical effectiveness and patient acceptance. Unfortunately, the industry lacks test methods for preclinical evaluation of key optical performance characteristics (OPCs) of endoscopic devices that are quantitative, objective and well-validated. As a result, it is difficult for researchers and developers to compare image quality and evaluate equivalence to, or improvement upon, prior technologies. While endoscope OPCs include resolution, field of view, and depth of field, among others, our focus in this paper is geometric image distortion. We reviewed specific test methods for distortion and then developed an objective, quantitative test method based on well-defined experimental and data processing steps to evaluate radial distortion in the full field of view of an endoscopic imaging system. Our measurements and analyses showed that a second-degree polynomial equation could well describe the radial distortion curve of a traditional endoscope. The distortion evaluation method was effective for correcting the image and can be used to explain other widely accepted evaluation methods such as picture height distortion. Development of consensus standards based on promising test methods for image quality assessment, such as the method studied here, will facilitate clinical implementation of innovative endoscopic devices.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bialas, James; Oommen, Thomas; Rebbapragada, Umaa; Levin, Eugene
2016-07-01
Object-based approaches in the segmentation and classification of remotely sensed images yield more promising results compared to pixel-based approaches. However, the development of an object-based approach presents challenges in terms of algorithm selection and parameter tuning. Subjective methods are often used, but yield less than optimal results. Objective methods are warranted, especially for rapid deployment in time-sensitive applications, such as earthquake damage assessment. Herein, we used a systematic approach in evaluating object-based image segmentation and machine learning algorithms for the classification of earthquake damage in remotely sensed imagery. We tested a variety of algorithms and parameters on post-event aerial imagery for the 2011 earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. Results were compared against manually selected test cases representing different classes. In doing so, we can evaluate the effectiveness of the segmentation and classification of different classes and compare different levels of multistep image segmentations. Our classifier is compared against recent pixel-based and object-based classification studies for postevent imagery of earthquake damage. Our results show an improvement against both pixel-based and object-based methods for classifying earthquake damage in high resolution, post-event imagery.
Stochastic Methods for Aircraft Design
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Pelz, Richard B.; Ogot, Madara
1998-01-01
The global stochastic optimization method, simulated annealing (SA), was adapted and applied to various problems in aircraft design. The research was aimed at overcoming the problem of finding an optimal design in a space with multiple minima and roughness ubiquitous to numerically generated nonlinear objective functions. SA was modified to reduce the number of objective function evaluations for an optimal design, historically the main criticism of stochastic methods. SA was applied to many CFD/MDO problems including: low sonic-boom bodies, minimum drag on supersonic fore-bodies, minimum drag on supersonic aeroelastic fore-bodies, minimum drag on HSCT aeroelastic wings, FLOPS preliminary design code, another preliminary aircraft design study with vortex lattice aerodynamics, HSR complete aircraft aerodynamics. In every case, SA provided a simple, robust and reliable optimization method which found optimal designs in order 100 objective function evaluations. Perhaps most importantly, from this academic/industrial project, technology has been successfully transferred; this method is the method of choice for optimization problems at Northrop Grumman.
Principal axes estimation using the vibration modes of physics-based deformable models.
Krinidis, Stelios; Chatzis, Vassilios
2008-06-01
This paper addresses the issue of accurate, effective, computationally efficient, fast, and fully automated 2-D object orientation and scaling factor estimation. The object orientation is calculated using object principal axes estimation. The approach relies on the object's frequency-based features. The frequency-based features used by the proposed technique are extracted by a 2-D physics-based deformable model that parameterizes the objects shape. The method was evaluated on synthetic and real images. The experimental results demonstrate the accuracy of the method, both in orientation and the scaling estimations.
The main objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of sampling methods for potential use as a Federal Reference Method (FRM) capable of providing an estimate of coarse particle (PMc: particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter between 2.5 µm and 10 µm) ...
Chihara, Takanori; Seo, Akihiko
2014-03-01
Proposed here is an evaluation of multiple muscle loads and a procedure for determining optimum solutions to ergonomic design problems. The simultaneous muscle load evaluation is formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem, and optimum solutions are obtained for each participant. In addition, one optimum solution for all participants, which is defined as the compromise solution, is also obtained. Moreover, the proposed method provides both objective and subjective information to support the decision making of designers. The proposed method was applied to the problem of designing the handrail position for the sit-to-stand movement. The height and distance of the handrails were the design variables, and surface electromyograms of four muscles were measured. The optimization results suggest that the proposed evaluation represents the impressions of participants more completely than an independent use of muscle loads. In addition, the compromise solution is determined, and the benefits of the proposed method are examined. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd and The Ergonomics Society. All rights reserved.
Local and global evaluation for remote sensing image segmentation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Su, Tengfei; Zhang, Shengwei
2017-08-01
In object-based image analysis, how to produce accurate segmentation is usually a very important issue that needs to be solved before image classification or target recognition. The study for segmentation evaluation method is key to solving this issue. Almost all of the existent evaluation strategies only focus on the global performance assessment. However, these methods are ineffective for the situation that two segmentation results with very similar overall performance have very different local error distributions. To overcome this problem, this paper presents an approach that can both locally and globally quantify segmentation incorrectness. In doing so, region-overlapping metrics are utilized to quantify each reference geo-object's over and under-segmentation error. These quantified error values are used to produce segmentation error maps which have effective illustrative power to delineate local segmentation error patterns. The error values for all of the reference geo-objects are aggregated through using area-weighted summation, so that global indicators can be derived. An experiment using two scenes of very different high resolution images showed that the global evaluation part of the proposed approach was almost as effective as other two global evaluation methods, and the local part was a useful complement to comparing different segmentation results.
Whole-surface round object imaging method using line-scan hyperspectral imaging system
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
To achieve comprehensive online quality and safety inspection of fruits, whole-surface sample presentation and imaging regimes must be considered. Specifically, a round object sample presentation method is under development to achieve effective whole-surface sample evaluation based on the use of a s...
Evaluation and selection guide of method of repair for routine maintenance
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2008-09-01
The objective of this field guideline is to provide assistance for the pavement evaluation and selection of method of repair for routine maintenance relative to the extension of service life. First, a strategic overview of routine maintenance activit...
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
K. Ladwig
2005-12-31
The overall objective of this project was to evaluate the impact of key constituents captured from power plant air streams (principally arsenic and selenium) on the disposal and utilization of coal combustion products (CCPs). Specific objectives of the project were: (1) to develop a comprehensive database of field leachate concentrations at a wide range of CCP management sites, including speciation of arsenic and selenium, and low-detection limit analyses for mercury; (2) to perform detailed evaluations of the release and attenuation of arsenic species at three CCP sites; and (3) to perform detailed evaluations of the release and attenuation of seleniummore » species at three CCP sites. Each of these objectives was accomplished using a combination of field sampling and laboratory analysis and experimentation. All of the methods used and results obtained are contained in this report. For ease of use, the report is subdivided into three parts. Volume 1 contains methods and results for the field leachate characterization. Volume 2 contains methods and results for arsenic adsorption. Volume 3 contains methods and results for selenium adsorption.« less
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kamangir, H.; Momeni, M.; Satari, M.
2017-09-01
This paper presents an automatic method to extract road centerline networks from high and very high resolution satellite images. The present paper addresses the automated extraction roads covered with multiple natural and artificial objects such as trees, vehicles and either shadows of buildings or trees. In order to have a precise road extraction, this method implements three stages including: classification of images based on maximum likelihood algorithm to categorize images into interested classes, modification process on classified images by connected component and morphological operators to extract pixels of desired objects by removing undesirable pixels of each class, and finally line extraction based on RANSAC algorithm. In order to evaluate performance of the proposed method, the generated results are compared with ground truth road map as a reference. The evaluation performance of the proposed method using representative test images show completeness values ranging between 77% and 93%.
Statistical procedures for evaluating daily and monthly hydrologic model predictions
Coffey, M.E.; Workman, S.R.; Taraba, J.L.; Fogle, A.W.
2004-01-01
The overall study objective was to evaluate the applicability of different qualitative and quantitative methods for comparing daily and monthly SWAT computer model hydrologic streamflow predictions to observed data, and to recommend statistical methods for use in future model evaluations. Statistical methods were tested using daily streamflows and monthly equivalent runoff depths. The statistical techniques included linear regression, Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency, nonparametric tests, t-test, objective functions, autocorrelation, and cross-correlation. None of the methods specifically applied to the non-normal distribution and dependence between data points for the daily predicted and observed data. Of the tested methods, median objective functions, sign test, autocorrelation, and cross-correlation were most applicable for the daily data. The robust coefficient of determination (CD*) and robust modeling efficiency (EF*) objective functions were the preferred methods for daily model results due to the ease of comparing these values with a fixed ideal reference value of one. Predicted and observed monthly totals were more normally distributed, and there was less dependence between individual monthly totals than was observed for the corresponding predicted and observed daily values. More statistical methods were available for comparing SWAT model-predicted and observed monthly totals. The 1995 monthly SWAT model predictions and observed data had a regression Rr2 of 0.70, a Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency of 0.41, and the t-test failed to reject the equal data means hypothesis. The Nash-Sutcliffe coefficient and the R r2 coefficient were the preferred methods for monthly results due to the ability to compare these coefficients to a set ideal value of one.
Reliable clarity automatic-evaluation method for optical remote sensing images
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Qin, Bangyong; Shang, Ren; Li, Shengyang; Hei, Baoqin; Liu, Zhiwen
2015-10-01
Image clarity, which reflects the sharpness degree at the edge of objects in images, is an important quality evaluate index for optical remote sensing images. Scholars at home and abroad have done a lot of work on estimation of image clarity. At present, common clarity-estimation methods for digital images mainly include frequency-domain function methods, statistical parametric methods, gradient function methods and edge acutance methods. Frequency-domain function method is an accurate clarity-measure approach. However, its calculation process is complicate and cannot be carried out automatically. Statistical parametric methods and gradient function methods are both sensitive to clarity of images, while their results are easy to be affected by the complex degree of images. Edge acutance method is an effective approach for clarity estimate, while it needs picking out the edges manually. Due to the limits in accuracy, consistent or automation, these existing methods are not applicable to quality evaluation of optical remote sensing images. In this article, a new clarity-evaluation method, which is based on the principle of edge acutance algorithm, is proposed. In the new method, edge detection algorithm and gradient search algorithm are adopted to automatically search the object edges in images. Moreover, The calculation algorithm for edge sharpness has been improved. The new method has been tested with several groups of optical remote sensing images. Compared with the existing automatic evaluation methods, the new method perform better both in accuracy and consistency. Thus, the new method is an effective clarity evaluation method for optical remote sensing images.
Jung, HaRim; Song, MoonBae; Youn, Hee Yong; Kim, Ung Mo
2015-01-01
A content-matched (CM) range monitoring query over moving objects continually retrieves the moving objects (i) whose non-spatial attribute values are matched to given non-spatial query values; and (ii) that are currently located within a given spatial query range. In this paper, we propose a new query indexing structure, called the group-aware query region tree (GQR-tree) for efficient evaluation of CM range monitoring queries. The primary role of the GQR-tree is to help the server leverage the computational capabilities of moving objects in order to improve the system performance in terms of the wireless communication cost and server workload. Through a series of comprehensive simulations, we verify the superiority of the GQR-tree method over the existing methods. PMID:26393613
Speckle interferometry with temporal phase evaluation for measuring large-object deformation.
Joenathan, C; Franze, B; Haible, P; Tiziani, H J
1998-05-01
We propose a new method for measuring large-object deformations byusing temporal evolution of the speckles in speckleinterferometry. The principle of the method is that by deformingthe object continuously, one obtains fluctuations in the intensity ofthe speckle. A large number of frames of the object motion arecollected to be analyzed later. The phase data for whole-objectdeformation are then retrieved by inverse Fourier transformation of afiltered spectrum obtained by Fourier transformation of thesignal. With this method one is capable of measuring deformationsof more than 100 mum, which is not possible using conventionalelectronic speckle pattern interferometry. We discuss theunderlying principle of the method and the results of theexperiments. Some nondestructive testing results are alsopresented.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2003-09-26
This report on the Evaluation Methods and Lessons Learned for the Mn/DOT Intelligent Vehicle Initiative (IVI) Field Operational Test (FOT) documents the goals and objectives, research approach, methods, and findings of a program to measure the feasib...
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
Background: Dietary assessment methods used in overweight/obese participants have been scrutinized for underreporting energy. Objective: Evaluate the effectiveness of a computer-administered, 24-hour recall method (ASA24) to measure energy and nutrient intake in overweight/obese women and to further...
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhang, Qian; Feng, Minquan; Hao, Xiaoyan
2018-03-01
[Objective] Based on the water quality historical data from the Zhangze Reservoir from the last five years, the water quality was assessed by the integrated water quality identification index method and the Nemerow pollution index method. The results of different evaluation methods were analyzed and compared and the characteristics of each method were identified.[Methods] The suitability of the water quality assessment methods were compared and analyzed, based on these results.[Results] the water quality tended to decrease over time with 2016 being the year with the worst water quality. The sections with the worst water quality were the southern and northern sections.[Conclusion] The results produced by the traditional Nemerow index method fluctuated greatly in each section of water quality monitoring and therefore could not effectively reveal the trend of water quality at each section. The combination of qualitative and quantitative measures of the comprehensive pollution index identification method meant it could evaluate the degree of water pollution as well as determine that the river water was black and odorous. However, the evaluation results showed that the water pollution was relatively low.The results from the improved Nemerow index evaluation were better as the single indicators and evaluation results are in strong agreement; therefore the method is able to objectively reflect the water quality of each water quality monitoring section and is more suitable for the water quality evaluation of the reservoir.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2008-02-01
The objective of the proposed research project is to compare the results of two recently introduced nondestructive load test methods to the existing 24-hour load test method described in Chapter 20 of ACI 318-05. The two new methods of nondestructive...
Large-scale weakly supervised object localization via latent category learning.
Chong Wang; Kaiqi Huang; Weiqiang Ren; Junge Zhang; Maybank, Steve
2015-04-01
Localizing objects in cluttered backgrounds is challenging under large-scale weakly supervised conditions. Due to the cluttered image condition, objects usually have large ambiguity with backgrounds. Besides, there is also a lack of effective algorithm for large-scale weakly supervised localization in cluttered backgrounds. However, backgrounds contain useful latent information, e.g., the sky in the aeroplane class. If this latent information can be learned, object-background ambiguity can be largely reduced and background can be suppressed effectively. In this paper, we propose the latent category learning (LCL) in large-scale cluttered conditions. LCL is an unsupervised learning method which requires only image-level class labels. First, we use the latent semantic analysis with semantic object representation to learn the latent categories, which represent objects, object parts or backgrounds. Second, to determine which category contains the target object, we propose a category selection strategy by evaluating each category's discrimination. Finally, we propose the online LCL for use in large-scale conditions. Evaluation on the challenging PASCAL Visual Object Class (VOC) 2007 and the large-scale imagenet large-scale visual recognition challenge 2013 detection data sets shows that the method can improve the annotation precision by 10% over previous methods. More importantly, we achieve the detection precision which outperforms previous results by a large margin and can be competitive to the supervised deformable part model 5.0 baseline on both data sets.
Improved NSGA model for multi objective operation scheduling and its evaluation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Li, Weining; Wang, Fuyu
2017-09-01
Reasonable operation can increase the income of the hospital and improve the patient’s satisfactory level. In this paper, by using multi object operation scheduling method with improved NSGA algorithm, it shortens the operation time, reduces the operation costand lowers the operation risk, the multi-objective optimization model is established for flexible operation scheduling, through the MATLAB simulation method, the Pareto solution is obtained, the standardization of data processing. The optimal scheduling scheme is selected by using entropy weight -Topsis combination method. The results show that the algorithm is feasible to solve the multi-objective operation scheduling problem, and provide a reference for hospital operation scheduling.
Nondestructive evaluation of standing trees with a stress wave method.
Xiping Wang; Robert J. Ross; Michael McClellan; R. James Barbour; John R. Erickson; John W. Forsman; Gary D. McGinnis
2001-01-01
The primary objective of this study was to investigate the usefulness of a stress wave technique for evaluating wood strength and stiffness of young-growth western hemlock and Sitka spruce in standing trees. A secondary objective was to determine if the effects of silvicultural practices on wood quality can be identified using this technique. Stress wave measurements...
Objective Evaluation of Muscle Strength in Infants with Hypotonia and Muscle Weakness
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Reus, Linda; van Vlimmeren, Leo A.; Staal, J. Bart; Janssen, Anjo J. W. M.; Otten, Barto J.; Pelzer, Ben J.; Nijhuis-van der Sanden, Maria W. G.
2013-01-01
The clinical evaluation of an infant with motor delay, muscle weakness, and/or hypotonia would improve considerably if muscle strength could be measured objectively and normal reference values were available. The authors developed a method to measure muscle strength in infants and tested 81 typically developing infants, 6-36 months of age, and 17…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Collado-Rivera, Maria; Branscum, Paul; Larson, Daniel; Gao, Haijuan
2018-01-01
Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the determinants of sugary drink consumption among overweight and obese adults attempting to lose weight using the Integrative Model of Behavioural Prediction (IMB). Design: Cross-sectional design. Method: Determinants of behavioural intentions (attitudes, perceived norms and perceived…
Methodology for Evaluating Quality and Reusability of Learning Objects
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Kurilovas, Eugenijus; Bireniene, Virginija; Serikoviene, Silvija
2011-01-01
The aim of the paper is to present the scientific model and several methods for the expert evaluation of quality of learning objects (LOs) paying especial attention to LOs reusability level. The activities of eQNet Quality Network for a European Learning Resource Exchange (LRE) aimed to improve reusability of LOs of European Schoolnet's LRE…
Nonlinear Optical Phenomena in Solids
1981-02-01
December 1980, organized according to research objectives: a. Objective: Grow five crystals of Hg].Cdx.Te by the modified Bridgman (quench/anneal) method...objectives of the contract are listed below: a. Grow five 2rystals of Hgl _ ,Cd T e by the modified Bridgman (quench/anneal) method. b. Determine the...composicinn and purity profiles of the crystals . c. Prepare spin-flip Raman laser cavities from selected sections of the crystals . d. Evaluate the utility of
New England Instructional Television Research Center (NETREC).
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Friedlander, Bernard Z.; Wetstone, Harriet S.
Projects of the New England Instructional Television Research Center (NITREC) are summarized in a collection of papers. Objectives, rationale, and program of NETREC are defined, along with methods of formative evaluation during production. Seven videotest research projects cover methods of evaluating communicative effectiveness of primary-grade…
LABORATORY TOXICITY TESTS FOR EVALUATING POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF ENDOCRINE-DISRUPTING COMPOUNDS
The scope of the Laboratory Testing Work Group was to evaluate methods for testing aquatic and terrestrial invertebrates in the laboratory. Specifically, discussions focused on the following objectives: 1) assess the extent to which consensus-based standard methods and other pub...
Evaluation of design flood frequency methods for Iowa streams : final report, June 2009.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2009-06-01
The objective of this project was to assess the predictive accuracy of flood frequency estimation for small Iowa streams based : on the Rational Method, the NRCS curve number approach, and the Iowa Runoff Chart. The evaluation was based on : comparis...
[Forensic medical diagnostics of intra-vitality of the strangulation mark by morphological methods].
Bogomolov, D V; Zbrueva, Yu V; Putintsev, V A; Denisova, O P
2016-01-01
The objective of the present study WaS to overview the current domestic and foreign literature concerning the up-to-date methods employed for the expert evaluation of intra-vitality of the strangulation mark. The secondary objective was to propose the new approaches for addressing this problem. The methods of expert diagnostics with a view to determining the time of infliction of injuries as exemplified by mechanical asphyxia are discussed. It is concluded that immunohistochemical and morphometric studies provide the most promising tools for the evaluation of intra-vitality of the strangulation mark for the purpose of forensic medical expertise.
Speckle correlation method used to measure object's in-plane velocity.
Smíd, Petr; Horváth, Pavel; Hrabovský, Miroslav
2007-06-20
We present a measurement of an object's in-plane velocity in one direction by the use of the speckle correlation method. Numerical correlations of speckle patterns recorded periodically during motion of the object under investigation give information used to evaluate the object's in-plane velocity. The proposed optical setup uses a detection plane in the image field and enables one to detect the object's velocity within the interval (10-150) microm x s(-1). Simulation analysis shows a way of controlling the measuring range. The presented theory, simulation analysis, and setup are verified through an experiment of measurement of the velocity profile of an object.
Method for Evaluating Information to Solve Problems of Control, Monitoring and Diagnostics
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Vasil'ev, V. A.; Dobrynina, N. V.
2017-06-01
The article describes a method for evaluating information to solve problems of control, monitoring and diagnostics. It is necessary for reducing the dimensionality of informational indicators of situations, bringing them to relative units, for calculating generalized information indicators on their basis, ranking them by characteristic levels, for calculating the efficiency criterion of a system functioning in real time. The design of information evaluation system has been developed on its basis that allows analyzing, processing and assessing information about the object. Such object can be a complex technical, economic and social system. The method and the based system thereof can find a wide application in the field of analysis, processing and evaluation of information on the functioning of the systems, regardless of their purpose, goals, tasks and complexity. For example, they can be used to assess the innovation capacities of industrial enterprises and management decisions.
Graph drawing using tabu search coupled with path relinking.
Dib, Fadi K; Rodgers, Peter
2018-01-01
Graph drawing, or the automatic layout of graphs, is a challenging problem. There are several search based methods for graph drawing which are based on optimizing an objective function which is formed from a weighted sum of multiple criteria. In this paper, we propose a new neighbourhood search method which uses a tabu search coupled with path relinking to optimize such objective functions for general graph layouts with undirected straight lines. To our knowledge, before our work, neither of these methods have been previously used in general multi-criteria graph drawing. Tabu search uses a memory list to speed up searching by avoiding previously tested solutions, while the path relinking method generates new solutions by exploring paths that connect high quality solutions. We use path relinking periodically within the tabu search procedure to speed up the identification of good solutions. We have evaluated our new method against the commonly used neighbourhood search optimization techniques: hill climbing and simulated annealing. Our evaluation examines the quality of the graph layout (objective function's value) and the speed of layout in terms of the number of evaluated solutions required to draw a graph. We also examine the relative scalability of each method. Our experimental results were applied to both random graphs and a real-world dataset. We show that our method outperforms both hill climbing and simulated annealing by producing a better layout in a lower number of evaluated solutions. In addition, we demonstrate that our method has greater scalability as it can layout larger graphs than the state-of-the-art neighbourhood search methods. Finally, we show that similar results can be produced in a real world setting by testing our method against a standard public graph dataset.
Graph drawing using tabu search coupled with path relinking
Rodgers, Peter
2018-01-01
Graph drawing, or the automatic layout of graphs, is a challenging problem. There are several search based methods for graph drawing which are based on optimizing an objective function which is formed from a weighted sum of multiple criteria. In this paper, we propose a new neighbourhood search method which uses a tabu search coupled with path relinking to optimize such objective functions for general graph layouts with undirected straight lines. To our knowledge, before our work, neither of these methods have been previously used in general multi-criteria graph drawing. Tabu search uses a memory list to speed up searching by avoiding previously tested solutions, while the path relinking method generates new solutions by exploring paths that connect high quality solutions. We use path relinking periodically within the tabu search procedure to speed up the identification of good solutions. We have evaluated our new method against the commonly used neighbourhood search optimization techniques: hill climbing and simulated annealing. Our evaluation examines the quality of the graph layout (objective function’s value) and the speed of layout in terms of the number of evaluated solutions required to draw a graph. We also examine the relative scalability of each method. Our experimental results were applied to both random graphs and a real-world dataset. We show that our method outperforms both hill climbing and simulated annealing by producing a better layout in a lower number of evaluated solutions. In addition, we demonstrate that our method has greater scalability as it can layout larger graphs than the state-of-the-art neighbourhood search methods. Finally, we show that similar results can be produced in a real world setting by testing our method against a standard public graph dataset. PMID:29746576
Cross-Domain Multi-View Object Retrieval via Multi-Scale Topic Models.
Hong, Richang; Hu, Zhenzhen; Wang, Ruxin; Wang, Meng; Tao, Dacheng
2016-09-27
The increasing number of 3D objects in various applications has increased the requirement for effective and efficient 3D object retrieval methods, which attracted extensive research efforts in recent years. Existing works mainly focus on how to extract features and conduct object matching. With the increasing applications, 3D objects come from different areas. In such circumstances, how to conduct object retrieval becomes more important. To address this issue, we propose a multi-view object retrieval method using multi-scale topic models in this paper. In our method, multiple views are first extracted from each object, and then the dense visual features are extracted to represent each view. To represent the 3D object, multi-scale topic models are employed to extract the hidden relationship among these features with respected to varied topic numbers in the topic model. In this way, each object can be represented by a set of bag of topics. To compare the objects, we first conduct topic clustering for the basic topics from two datasets, and then generate the common topic dictionary for new representation. Then, the two objects can be aligned to the same common feature space for comparison. To evaluate the performance of the proposed method, experiments are conducted on two datasets. The 3D object retrieval experimental results and comparison with existing methods demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
[Reconstituting evaluation methods based on both qualitative and quantitative paradigms].
Miyata, Hiroaki; Okubo, Suguru; Yoshie, Satoru; Kai, Ichiro
2011-01-01
Debate about the relationship between quantitative and qualitative paradigms is often muddled and confusing and the clutter of terms and arguments has resulted in the concepts becoming obscure and unrecognizable. In this study we conducted content analysis regarding evaluation methods of qualitative healthcare research. We extracted descriptions on four types of evaluation paradigm (validity/credibility, reliability/credibility, objectivity/confirmability, and generalizability/transferability), and classified them into subcategories. In quantitative research, there has been many evaluation methods based on qualitative paradigms, and vice versa. Thus, it might not be useful to consider evaluation methods of qualitative paradigm are isolated from those of quantitative methods. Choosing practical evaluation methods based on the situation and prior conditions of each study is an important approach for researchers.
Objective quality assessment for multiexposure multifocus image fusion.
Hassen, Rania; Wang, Zhou; Salama, Magdy M A
2015-09-01
There has been a growing interest in image fusion technologies, but how to objectively evaluate the quality of fused images has not been fully understood. Here, we propose a method for objective quality assessment of multiexposure multifocus image fusion based on the evaluation of three key factors of fused image quality: 1) contrast preservation; 2) sharpness; and 3) structure preservation. Subjective experiments are conducted to create an image fusion database, based on which, performance evaluation shows that the proposed fusion quality index correlates well with subjective scores, and gives a significant improvement over the existing fusion quality measures.
Assessment of Surgical Skills and Competency.
Bhatti, Nasir I
2017-10-01
Evaluation of surgical skills and competency are important aspects of the medical education process. Measurable and reproducible methods of assessment with objective feedback are essential components of surgical training. Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) is widely used across the medical specialties and otolaryngology-specific tools have been developed and validated for sinus and mastoid surgery. Although assessment of surgical skills can be time-consuming and requires human and financial resources, new evaluation methods and emerging technology may alleviate these barriers while also improving data collection practices. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mao, Chao; Chen, Shou
2017-01-01
According to the traditional entropy value method still have low evaluation accuracy when evaluating the performance of mining projects, a performance evaluation model of mineral project founded on improved entropy is proposed. First establish a new weight assignment model founded on compatible matrix analysis of analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and entropy value method, when the compatibility matrix analysis to achieve consistency requirements, if it has differences between subjective weights and objective weights, moderately adjust both proportions, then on this basis, the fuzzy evaluation matrix for performance evaluation. The simulation experiments show that, compared with traditional entropy and compatible matrix analysis method, the proposed performance evaluation model of mining project based on improved entropy value method has higher accuracy assessment.
Resealing concrete pavement joints
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
1999-07-01
The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the relative performance of the selected joint sealant materials. Other objectives were to determine the effect of selected sealant configurations and installation methods, and to identify sealant m...
Vavalle, Nicholas A; Jelen, Benjamin C; Moreno, Daniel P; Stitzel, Joel D; Gayzik, F Scott
2013-01-01
Objective evaluation methods of time history signals are used to quantify how well simulated human body responses match experimental data. As the use of simulations grows in the field of biomechanics, there is a need to establish standard approaches for comparisons. There are 2 aims of this study. The first is to apply 3 objective evaluation methods found in the literature to a set of data from a human body finite element model. The second is to compare the results of each method, examining how they are correlated to each other and the relative strengths and weaknesses of the algorithms. In this study, the methods proposed by Sprague and Geers (magnitude and phase error, SGM and SGP), Rhule et al. (cumulative standard deviation, CSD), and Gehre et al. (CORrelation and Analysis, or CORA, size, phase, shape, corridor) were compared. A 40 kph frontal sled test presented by Shaw et al. was simulated using the Global Human Body Models Consortium midsized male full-body finite element model (v. 3.5). Mean and standard deviation experimental data (n = 5) from Shaw et al. were used as the benchmark. Simulated data were output from the model at the appropriate anatomical locations for kinematic comparison. Force data were output at the seat belts, seat pan, knee, and foot restraints. Objective comparisons from 53 time history data channels were compared to the experimental results. To compare the different methods, all objective comparison metrics were cross-plotted and linear regressions were calculated. The following ratings were found to be statistically significantly correlated (P < .01): SGM and CORrelation and Analysis (CORA) size, R (2) = 0.73; SGP and CORA shape, R (2) = 0.82; and CSD and CORA's corridor factor, R (2) = 0.59. Relative strengths of the correlated ratings were then investigated. For example, though correlated to CORA size, SGM carries a sign to indicate whether the simulated response is greater than or less than the benchmark signal. A further analysis of the advantages and drawbacks of each method is discussed. The results demonstrate that a single metric is insufficient to provide a complete assessment of how well the simulated results match the experiments. The CORA method provided the most comprehensive evaluation of the signal. Regardless of the method selected, one primary recommendation of this work is that for any comparison, the results should be reported to provide separate assessments of a signal's match to experimental variance, magnitude, phase, and shape. Future work planned includes implementing any forthcoming International Organization for Standardization standards for objective evaluations. Supplemental materials are available for this article. Go to the publisher's online edition of Traffic Injury Prevention to view the supplemental file.
Surrogate Based Uni/Multi-Objective Optimization and Distribution Estimation Methods
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Gong, W.; Duan, Q.; Huo, X.
2017-12-01
Parameter calibration has been demonstrated as an effective way to improve the performance of dynamic models, such as hydrological models, land surface models, weather and climate models etc. Traditional optimization algorithms usually cost a huge number of model evaluations, making dynamic model calibration very difficult, or even computationally prohibitive. With the help of a serious of recently developed adaptive surrogate-modelling based optimization methods: uni-objective optimization method ASMO, multi-objective optimization method MO-ASMO, and probability distribution estimation method ASMO-PODE, the number of model evaluations can be significantly reduced to several hundreds, making it possible to calibrate very expensive dynamic models, such as regional high resolution land surface models, weather forecast models such as WRF, and intermediate complexity earth system models such as LOVECLIM. This presentation provides a brief introduction to the common framework of adaptive surrogate-based optimization algorithms of ASMO, MO-ASMO and ASMO-PODE, a case study of Common Land Model (CoLM) calibration in Heihe river basin in Northwest China, and an outlook of the potential applications of the surrogate-based optimization methods.
An efficient direct method for image registration of flat objects
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Nikolaev, Dmitry; Tihonkih, Dmitrii; Makovetskii, Artyom; Voronin, Sergei
2017-09-01
Image alignment of rigid surfaces is a rapidly developing area of research and has many practical applications. Alignment methods can be roughly divided into two types: feature-based methods and direct methods. Known SURF and SIFT algorithms are examples of the feature-based methods. Direct methods refer to those that exploit the pixel intensities without resorting to image features and image-based deformations are general direct method to align images of deformable objects in 3D space. Nevertheless, it is not good for the registration of images of 3D rigid objects since the underlying structure cannot be directly evaluated. In the article, we propose a model that is suitable for image alignment of rigid flat objects under various illumination models. The brightness consistency assumptions used for reconstruction of optimal geometrical transformation. Computer simulation results are provided to illustrate the performance of the proposed algorithm for computing of an accordance between pixels of two images.
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Simons, Carl A.
1988-06-01
One major objective of this study was to compare several woodstove particulate emission sampling methods under laboratory and in-situ conditions. The laboratory work compared the EPA Method 5H, EPA Method 5G, and OMNI Automated Woodstove Emission Sampler (AWES)/Data LOG'r particulate emission sampling systems. A second major objective of the study was to evaluate the performance of two integral catalytic, two low emission non-catalytic, and two conventional technology woodstoves under in-situ conditions with AWES/Data LOG'r system. The AWES/Data LOG'r and EPA Method 5G sampling systems were also compared in an in-situ test on one of the integral catalytic woodstove models. 7more » figs., 12 tabs.« less
Frost, Anja; Renners, Eike; Hötter, Michael; Ostermann, Jörn
2013-01-01
An important part of computed tomography is the calculation of a three-dimensional reconstruction of an object from series of X-ray images. Unfortunately, some applications do not provide sufficient X-ray images. Then, the reconstructed objects no longer truly represent the original. Inside of the volumes, the accuracy seems to vary unpredictably. In this paper, we introduce a novel method to evaluate any reconstruction, voxel by voxel. The evaluation is based on a sophisticated probabilistic handling of the measured X-rays, as well as the inclusion of a priori knowledge about the materials that the object receiving the X-ray examination consists of. For each voxel, the proposed method outputs a numerical value that represents the probability of existence of a predefined material at the position of the voxel while doing X-ray. Such a probabilistic quality measure was lacking so far. In our experiment, false reconstructed areas get detected by their low probability. In exact reconstructed areas, a high probability predominates. Receiver Operating Characteristics not only confirm the reliability of our quality measure but also demonstrate that existing methods are less suitable for evaluating a reconstruction. PMID:23344378
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Uysal, Murat Pasa
2016-01-01
Various methods and tools have been proposed to overcome the learning obstacles for Object-Oriented Programming (OOP). However, it remains difficult especially for novice learners. The problem may be not only adopting an instructional method, but also an Integrated Development Environment (IDE). Learners employ IDEs as a means to solve programming…
Compositional mining of multiple object API protocols through state abstraction.
Dai, Ziying; Mao, Xiaoguang; Lei, Yan; Qi, Yuhua; Wang, Rui; Gu, Bin
2013-01-01
API protocols specify correct sequences of method invocations. Despite their usefulness, API protocols are often unavailable in practice because writing them is cumbersome and error prone. Multiple object API protocols are more expressive than single object API protocols. However, the huge number of objects of typical object-oriented programs poses a major challenge to the automatic mining of multiple object API protocols: besides maintaining scalability, it is important to capture various object interactions. Current approaches utilize various heuristics to focus on small sets of methods. In this paper, we present a general, scalable, multiple object API protocols mining approach that can capture all object interactions. Our approach uses abstract field values to label object states during the mining process. We first mine single object typestates as finite state automata whose transitions are annotated with states of interacting objects before and after the execution of the corresponding method and then construct multiple object API protocols by composing these annotated single object typestates. We implement our approach for Java and evaluate it through a series of experiments.
Compositional Mining of Multiple Object API Protocols through State Abstraction
Mao, Xiaoguang; Qi, Yuhua; Wang, Rui; Gu, Bin
2013-01-01
API protocols specify correct sequences of method invocations. Despite their usefulness, API protocols are often unavailable in practice because writing them is cumbersome and error prone. Multiple object API protocols are more expressive than single object API protocols. However, the huge number of objects of typical object-oriented programs poses a major challenge to the automatic mining of multiple object API protocols: besides maintaining scalability, it is important to capture various object interactions. Current approaches utilize various heuristics to focus on small sets of methods. In this paper, we present a general, scalable, multiple object API protocols mining approach that can capture all object interactions. Our approach uses abstract field values to label object states during the mining process. We first mine single object typestates as finite state automata whose transitions are annotated with states of interacting objects before and after the execution of the corresponding method and then construct multiple object API protocols by composing these annotated single object typestates. We implement our approach for Java and evaluate it through a series of experiments. PMID:23844378
Metal artifact reduction for CT-based luggage screening.
Karimi, Seemeen; Martz, Harry; Cosman, Pamela
2015-01-01
In aviation security, checked luggage is screened by computed tomography scanning. Metal objects in the bags create artifacts that degrade image quality. Though there exist metal artifact reduction (MAR) methods mainly in medical imaging literature, they require knowledge of the materials in the scan, or are outlier rejection methods. To improve and evaluate a MAR method we previously introduced, that does not require knowledge of the materials in the scan, and gives good results on data with large quantities and different kinds of metal. We describe in detail an optimization which de-emphasizes metal projections and has a constraint for beam hardening and scatter. This method isolates and reduces artifacts in an intermediate image, which is then fed to a previously published sinogram replacement method. We evaluate the algorithm for luggage data containing multiple and large metal objects. We define measures of artifact reduction, and compare this method against others in MAR literature. Metal artifacts were reduced in our test images, even for multiple and large metal objects, without much loss of structure or resolution. Our MAR method outperforms the methods with which we compared it. Our approach does not make assumptions about image content, nor does it discard metal projections.
Conklin, Annalijn; Nolte, Ellen; Vrijhoef, Hubertus
2013-01-01
An overview was produced of approaches currently used to evaluate chronic disease management in selected European countries. The study aims to describe the methods and metrics used in Europe as a first to help advance the methodological basis for their assessment. A common template for collection of evaluation methods and performance measures was sent to key informants in twelve European countries; responses were summarized in tables based on template evaluation categories. Extracted data were descriptively analyzed. Approaches to the evaluation of chronic disease management vary widely in objectives, designs, metrics, observation period, and data collection methods. Half of the reported studies used noncontrolled designs. The majority measure clinical process measures, patient behavior and satisfaction, cost and utilization; several also used a range of structural indicators. Effects are usually observed over 1 or 3 years on patient populations with a single, commonly prevalent, chronic disease. There is wide variation within and between European countries on approaches to evaluating chronic disease management in their objectives, designs, indicators, target audiences, and actors involved. This study is the first extensive, international overview of the area reported in the literature.
Belgiu, Mariana; Dr Guţ, Lucian
2014-10-01
Although multiresolution segmentation (MRS) is a powerful technique for dealing with very high resolution imagery, some of the image objects that it generates do not match the geometries of the target objects, which reduces the classification accuracy. MRS can, however, be guided to produce results that approach the desired object geometry using either supervised or unsupervised approaches. Although some studies have suggested that a supervised approach is preferable, there has been no comparative evaluation of these two approaches. Therefore, in this study, we have compared supervised and unsupervised approaches to MRS. One supervised and two unsupervised segmentation methods were tested on three areas using QuickBird and WorldView-2 satellite imagery. The results were assessed using both segmentation evaluation methods and an accuracy assessment of the resulting building classifications. Thus, differences in the geometries of the image objects and in the potential to achieve satisfactory thematic accuracies were evaluated. The two approaches yielded remarkably similar classification results, with overall accuracies ranging from 82% to 86%. The performance of one of the unsupervised methods was unexpectedly similar to that of the supervised method; they identified almost identical scale parameters as being optimal for segmenting buildings, resulting in very similar geometries for the resulting image objects. The second unsupervised method produced very different image objects from the supervised method, but their classification accuracies were still very similar. The latter result was unexpected because, contrary to previously published findings, it suggests a high degree of independence between the segmentation results and classification accuracy. The results of this study have two important implications. The first is that object-based image analysis can be automated without sacrificing classification accuracy, and the second is that the previously accepted idea that classification is dependent on segmentation is challenged by our unexpected results, casting doubt on the value of pursuing 'optimal segmentation'. Our results rather suggest that as long as under-segmentation remains at acceptable levels, imperfections in segmentation can be ruled out, so that a high level of classification accuracy can still be achieved.
Evaluating the Impact of Action Plans on Trainee Compliance with Learning Objectives
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Aumann, Michael J.
2013-01-01
This mixed methods research study evaluated the use of technology-based action plans as a way to help improve compliance with the learning objectives of an online training event. It explored how the action planning strategy impacted subjects in a treatment group and compared them to subjects in a control group who did not get the action plan. The…
Evaluating School Facilities in Brazil
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Ornstein, Sheila Walbe; Moreira, Nanci Saraiva
2008-01-01
Brazil's Sao Paulo Metropolitan Region is conducting a performance evaluation pilot study at three schools serving disadvantaged populations. The objective is first to test methods which can facilitate Post Occupancy Evaluations (POEs) and then to carry out the evaluations. The preliminary results are provided below.
Hou, Bin; Wang, Yunhong; Liu, Qingjie
2016-01-01
Characterizations of up to date information of the Earth’s surface are an important application providing insights to urban planning, resources monitoring and environmental studies. A large number of change detection (CD) methods have been developed to solve them by utilizing remote sensing (RS) images. The advent of high resolution (HR) remote sensing images further provides challenges to traditional CD methods and opportunities to object-based CD methods. While several kinds of geospatial objects are recognized, this manuscript mainly focuses on buildings. Specifically, we propose a novel automatic approach combining pixel-based strategies with object-based ones for detecting building changes with HR remote sensing images. A multiresolution contextual morphological transformation called extended morphological attribute profiles (EMAPs) allows the extraction of geometrical features related to the structures within the scene at different scales. Pixel-based post-classification is executed on EMAPs using hierarchical fuzzy clustering. Subsequently, the hierarchical fuzzy frequency vector histograms are formed based on the image-objects acquired by simple linear iterative clustering (SLIC) segmentation. Then, saliency and morphological building index (MBI) extracted on difference images are used to generate a pseudo training set. Ultimately, object-based semi-supervised classification is implemented on this training set by applying random forest (RF). Most of the important changes are detected by the proposed method in our experiments. This study was checked for effectiveness using visual evaluation and numerical evaluation. PMID:27618903
Hou, Bin; Wang, Yunhong; Liu, Qingjie
2016-08-27
Characterizations of up to date information of the Earth's surface are an important application providing insights to urban planning, resources monitoring and environmental studies. A large number of change detection (CD) methods have been developed to solve them by utilizing remote sensing (RS) images. The advent of high resolution (HR) remote sensing images further provides challenges to traditional CD methods and opportunities to object-based CD methods. While several kinds of geospatial objects are recognized, this manuscript mainly focuses on buildings. Specifically, we propose a novel automatic approach combining pixel-based strategies with object-based ones for detecting building changes with HR remote sensing images. A multiresolution contextual morphological transformation called extended morphological attribute profiles (EMAPs) allows the extraction of geometrical features related to the structures within the scene at different scales. Pixel-based post-classification is executed on EMAPs using hierarchical fuzzy clustering. Subsequently, the hierarchical fuzzy frequency vector histograms are formed based on the image-objects acquired by simple linear iterative clustering (SLIC) segmentation. Then, saliency and morphological building index (MBI) extracted on difference images are used to generate a pseudo training set. Ultimately, object-based semi-supervised classification is implemented on this training set by applying random forest (RF). Most of the important changes are detected by the proposed method in our experiments. This study was checked for effectiveness using visual evaluation and numerical evaluation.
Developing a Mind-Body Exercise Programme for Stressed Children
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Wang, Claudia; Seo, Dong-Chul; Geib, Roy W
2017-01-01
Objective: To describe the process of developing a Health Qigong programme for stressed children using a formative evaluation approach. Methods: A multi-step formative evaluation method was utilised. These steps included (1) identifying programme content and drafting the curriculum, (2) synthesising effective and age-appropriate pedagogies, (3)…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Morris-Paxton, Angela A.; Van Lingen, Johanna M.; Elkonin, Diane
2017-01-01
Objective: A critical evaluation of a salutogenic, wellness education programme was conducted with a group of first-year socioeconomically disadvantaged higher education students, in order to assess the value they placed on health information and wellness priorities. Methods: This study took a mixed-methods approach utilising a…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Nielsen, Karina; Randall, Raymond; Christensen, Karl B.
2017-01-01
A mixed methods approach was applied to examine the effects of a naturally occurring teamwork intervention supported with training. The first objective was to integrate qualitative process evaluation and quantitative effect evaluation to examine "how" and "why" the training influence intervention outcomes. The intervention (N =…
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yan, Fengxia; Udupa, Jayaram K.; Tong, Yubing; Xu, Guoping; Odhner, Dewey; Torigian, Drew A.
2018-03-01
The recently developed body-wide Automatic Anatomy Recognition (AAR) methodology depends on fuzzy modeling of individual objects, hierarchically arranging objects, constructing an anatomy ensemble of these models, and a dichotomous object recognition-delineation process. The parent-to-offspring spatial relationship in the object hierarchy is crucial in the AAR method. We have found this relationship to be quite complex, and as such any improvement in capturing this relationship information in the anatomy model will improve the process of recognition itself. Currently, the method encodes this relationship based on the layout of the geometric centers of the objects. Motivated by the concept of virtual landmarks (VLs), this paper presents a new one-shot AAR recognition method that utilizes the VLs to learn object relationships by training a neural network to predict the pose and the VLs of an offspring object given the VLs of the parent object in the hierarchy. We set up two neural networks for each parent-offspring object pair in a body region, one for predicting the VLs and another for predicting the pose parameters. The VL-based learning/prediction method is evaluated on two object hierarchies involving 14 objects. We utilize 54 computed tomography (CT) image data sets of head and neck cancer patients and the associated object contours drawn by dosimetrists for routine radiation therapy treatment planning. The VL neural network method is found to yield more accurate object localization than the currently used simple AAR method.
A survey on object detection in optical remote sensing images
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Cheng, Gong; Han, Junwei
2016-07-01
Object detection in optical remote sensing images, being a fundamental but challenging problem in the field of aerial and satellite image analysis, plays an important role for a wide range of applications and is receiving significant attention in recent years. While enormous methods exist, a deep review of the literature concerning generic object detection is still lacking. This paper aims to provide a review of the recent progress in this field. Different from several previously published surveys that focus on a specific object class such as building and road, we concentrate on more generic object categories including, but are not limited to, road, building, tree, vehicle, ship, airport, urban-area. Covering about 270 publications we survey (1) template matching-based object detection methods, (2) knowledge-based object detection methods, (3) object-based image analysis (OBIA)-based object detection methods, (4) machine learning-based object detection methods, and (5) five publicly available datasets and three standard evaluation metrics. We also discuss the challenges of current studies and propose two promising research directions, namely deep learning-based feature representation and weakly supervised learning-based geospatial object detection. It is our hope that this survey will be beneficial for the researchers to have better understanding of this research field.
Performance index and meta-optimization of a direct search optimization method
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Krus, P.; Ölvander, J.
2013-10-01
Design optimization is becoming an increasingly important tool for design, often using simulation as part of the evaluation of the objective function. A measure of the efficiency of an optimization algorithm is of great importance when comparing methods. The main contribution of this article is the introduction of a singular performance criterion, the entropy rate index based on Shannon's information theory, taking both reliability and rate of convergence into account. It can also be used to characterize the difficulty of different optimization problems. Such a performance criterion can also be used for optimization of the optimization algorithms itself. In this article the Complex-RF optimization method is described and its performance evaluated and optimized using the established performance criterion. Finally, in order to be able to predict the resources needed for optimization an objective function temperament factor is defined that indicates the degree of difficulty of the objective function.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Middlemas, David A.; Hensal, Carleton
2009-01-01
Objectives: To examine methods used to evaluate the clinical competence and proficiency of students in medicine and allied health professions. To identify factors that would be valuable to educators in athletic training and other medical and allied health professions in the development and use of clinical assessment methods. Data Sources: We…
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
Objective: To develop and evaluate a method for calculating the Healthy Eating Index-2005 (HEI-2005) with the widely used Nutrition Data System for Research (NDSR) based on the method developed for use with the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food and Nutrient Dietary Data System (FNDDS) and M...
Mobile medical apps for patient education: a graded review of available dermatology apps.
Masud, Aisha; Shafi, Shahram; Rao, Babar K
2018-02-01
The utilization of mobile applications (apps) as educational resources for patients highlights the need for an objective method of evaluating the quality of health care-related mobile apps. In this study, a quantified rubric was developed to objectively grade publicly available dermatology mobile apps with the primary focus of patient education. The rubric included 5 criteria thought to be most important in evaluating the adequacy of these apps in relaying health information to patients: educational objectives, content, accuracy, design, and conflict of interest. A 4-point scale was applied to each criterion. The use of this objective rubric could have implications in the evaluation and recommendation of mobile health care apps as a vital educational resource for patients.
Automatic creation of object hierarchies for ray tracing
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Goldsmith, Jeffrey; Salmon, John
1987-01-01
Various methods for evaluating generated trees are proposed. The use of the hierarchical extent method of Rubin and Whitted (1980) to find the objects that will be hit by a ray is examined. This method employs tree searching; the construction of a tree of bounding volumes in order to determine the number of objects that will be hit by a ray is discussed. A tree generation algorithm, which uses a heuristic tree search strategy, is described. The effects of shuffling and sorting on the input data are investigated. The cost of inserting an object into the hierarchy during the construction of a tree algorithm is estimated. The steps involved in estimating the number of intersection calculations are presented.
Lee, Hyun-Ho; Lee, Sang-Kwon
2009-09-01
Booming sound is one of the important sounds in a passenger car. The aim of the paper is to develop the objective evaluation method of interior booming sound. The development method is based on the sound metrics and ANN (artificial neural network). The developed method is called the booming index. Previous work maintained that booming sound quality is related to loudness and sharpness--the sound metrics used in psychoacoustics--and that the booming index is developed by using the loudness and sharpness for a signal within whole frequency between 20 Hz and 20 kHz. In the present paper, the booming sound quality was found to be effectively related to the loudness at frequencies below 200 Hz; thus the booming index is updated by using the loudness of the signal filtered by the low pass filter at frequency under 200 Hz. The relationship between the booming index and sound metric is identified by an ANN. The updated booming index has been successfully applied to the objective evaluation of the booming sound quality of mass-produced passenger cars.
Applied Pharmacokinetics: Course Description and Retrospective Evaluation.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Beck, Diane E.
1984-01-01
An applied course designed to allow students to formulate pharmacokinetic recommendations individually for actual patient data and compare their recommendations to those of a pharmacokinetic consulting service is described and evaluated, and an objective student evaluation method is outlined. (MSE)
Performance evaluation of seal coat materials and designs.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2011-01-01
"This project presents an evaluation of seal coat materials and design method. The primary objectives of this research are 1) to evaluate seal coat performance : from various combinations of aggregates and emulsions in terms of aggregate loss; 2) to ...
Evaluation method on steering for the shape-shifting robot in different configurations
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chang, Jian; Li, Bin; Wang, Chong; Zheng, Huaibing; Li, Zhiqiang
2016-01-01
The evaluation method on steering is based on qualitative manner in existence, which causes the result inaccurate and fuzziness. It reduces the efficiency of process execution. So the method by quantitative manner for the shape-shifting robot in different configurations is proposed. Comparing to traditional evaluation method, the most important aspects which can influence the steering abilities of the robot in different configurations are researched in detail, including the energy, angular velocity, time and space. In order to improve the robustness of system, the ideal and slippage conditions are all considered by mathematical model. Comparing to the traditional weighting confirming method, the extent of robot steering method is proposed by the combination of subjective and objective weighting method. The subjective weighting method can show more preferences of the experts and is based on five-grade scale. The objective weighting method is based on information entropy to determine the factors. By the sensors fixed on the robot, the contract force between track grouser and ground, the intrinsic motion characteristics of robot are obtained and the experiment is done to prove the algorithm which is proposed as the robot in different common configurations. Through the method proposed in the article, fuzziness and inaccurate of the evaluation method has been solved, so the operators can choose the most suitable configuration of the robot to fulfil the different tasks more quickly and simply.
Systems and technologies for objective evaluation of technical skills in laparoscopic surgery.
Sánchez-Margallo, Juan A; Sánchez-Margallo, Francisco M; Oropesa, Ignacio; Gómez, Enrique J
2014-01-01
Minimally invasive surgery is a highly demanding surgical approach regarding technical requirements for the surgeon, who must be trained in order to perform a safe surgical intervention. Traditional surgical education in minimally invasive surgery is commonly based on subjective criteria to quantify and evaluate surgical abilities, which could be potentially unsafe for the patient. Authors, surgeons and associations are increasingly demanding the development of more objective assessment tools that can accredit surgeons as technically competent. This paper describes the state of the art in objective assessment methods of surgical skills. It gives an overview on assessment systems based on structured checklists and rating scales, surgical simulators, and instrument motion analysis. As a future work, an objective and automatic assessment method of surgical skills should be standardized as a means towards proficiency-based curricula for training in laparoscopic surgery and its certification.
Wu, Haining; Dong, Jianfei; Qi, Gaojin; Zhang, Guoqi
2015-07-01
Enhancing the colorfulness of illuminated objects is a promising application of LED lighting for commercial, exhibiting, and scientific purposes. This paper proposes a method to enhance the color of illuminated objects for a given polychromatic lamp. Meanwhile, the light color is restricted to white. We further relax the white light constraints by introducing soft margins. Based on the spectral and electrical characteristics of LEDs and object surface properties, we determine the optimal mixing of the LED light spectrum by solving a numerical optimization problem, which is a quadratic fractional programming problem by formulation. Simulation studies show that the trade-off between the white light constraint and the level of the color enhancement can be adjusted by tuning an upper limit value of the soft margin. Furthermore, visual evaluation experiments are performed to evaluate human perception of the color enhancement. The experiments have verified the effectiveness of the proposed method.
An experimental comparison of online object-tracking algorithms
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, Qing; Chen, Feng; Xu, Wenli; Yang, Ming-Hsuan
2011-09-01
This paper reviews and evaluates several state-of-the-art online object tracking algorithms. Notwithstanding decades of efforts, object tracking remains a challenging problem due to factors such as illumination, pose, scale, deformation, motion blur, noise, and occlusion. To account for appearance change, most recent tracking algorithms focus on robust object representations and effective state prediction. In this paper, we analyze the components of each tracking method and identify their key roles in dealing with specific challenges, thereby shedding light on how to choose and design algorithms for different situations. We compare state-of-the-art online tracking methods including the IVT,1 VRT,2 FragT,3 BoostT,4 SemiT,5 BeSemiT,6 L1T,7 MILT,8 VTD9 and TLD10 algorithms on numerous challenging sequences, and evaluate them with different performance metrics. The qualitative and quantitative comparative results demonstrate the strength and weakness of these algorithms.
A Wireless Sensor Network-Based Portable Vehicle Detector Evaluation System
Yoo, Seong-eun
2013-01-01
In an upcoming smart transportation environment, performance evaluations of existing Vehicle Detection Systems are crucial to maintain their accuracy. The existing evaluation method for Vehicle Detection Systems is based on a wired Vehicle Detection System reference and a video recorder, which must be operated and analyzed by capable traffic experts. However, this conventional evaluation system has many disadvantages. It is inconvenient to deploy, the evaluation takes a long time, and it lacks scalability and objectivity. To improve the evaluation procedure, this paper proposes a Portable Vehicle Detector Evaluation System based on wireless sensor networks. We describe both the architecture and design of a Vehicle Detector Evaluation System and the implementation results, focusing on the wireless sensor networks and methods for traffic information measurement. With the help of wireless sensor networks and automated analysis, our Vehicle Detector Evaluation System can evaluate a Vehicle Detection System conveniently and objectively. The extensive evaluations of our Vehicle Detector Evaluation System show that it can measure the traffic information such as volume counts and speed with over 98% accuracy. PMID:23344388
A wireless sensor network-based portable vehicle detector evaluation system.
Yoo, Seong-eun
2013-01-17
In an upcoming smart transportation environment, performance evaluations of existing Vehicle Detection Systems are crucial to maintain their accuracy. The existing evaluation method for Vehicle Detection Systems is based on a wired Vehicle Detection System reference and a video recorder, which must be operated and analyzed by capable traffic experts. However, this conventional evaluation system has many disadvantages. It is inconvenient to deploy, the evaluation takes a long time, and it lacks scalability and objectivity. To improve the evaluation procedure, this paper proposes a Portable Vehicle Detector Evaluation System based on wireless sensor networks. We describe both the architecture and design of a Vehicle Detector Evaluation System and the implementation results, focusing on the wireless sensor networks and methods for traffic information measurement. With the help of wireless sensor networks and automated analysis, our Vehicle Detector Evaluation System can evaluate a Vehicle Detection System conveniently and objectively. The extensive evaluations of our Vehicle Detector Evaluation System show that it can measure the traffic information such as volume counts and speed with over 98% accuracy.
ATLS-stowage and deployment testing of medical supplies and pharmaceuticals
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Gosbee, John; Benz, Darren; Lloyd, Charles W.; Bueker, Richard; Orsak, Debra
1991-01-01
The objective is to evaluate stowage and deployment methods for the Health Maintenance Facility (HMF) during microgravity. The specific objectives of this experiment are: (1) to evaluate the stowage and deployment mechanisms for the medical supplies; and (2) to evaluate the procedures for performing medical scenarios. To accomplish these objectives, the HMF test mini-racks will contain medical equipment mounted in the racks; and self-contained drawers with various mechanisms for stowing and deploying items. The medical supplies and pharmaceuticals will be destowed, handled, and restowed. The in-flight test procedures and other aspects of the KC-135 parabolic flight test to simulate weightlessness are presented.
A Program Evaluation of the Basic Supervisory Development Seminar
1985-08-01
evaluation. - Hoyle , English, and Steffy (1985) describe various methods that can be used to accomplisn the appropriate objectives of the evaluation...Maynihan Figure 2 Alternative Methods of Assessing Student and Program Effectiveness ( Hoyle , English, and Steffy, 1985) 21 CHAPTER III METHODCLOGY S Design...Fiedler, Fred E. "Responses to Sergiovanni." Educational Leadership (March 1979), 394-96. Fiedler, Fred E., and Martin M. Chemers. Leadership and
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Williams, E. Belvin; Tannenbaum, Robert S.
A 1967 evaluation of New York City's Neighborhood Youth Corps (NYC) educational enrichment program presents the objectives and the methods of implementation of the Board of Education and the local community agencies which administered the project. Criticized are the diversity of the program objectives, the lack of provision for a specified…
A strategy for evaluating pathway analysis methods.
Yu, Chenggang; Woo, Hyung Jun; Yu, Xueping; Oyama, Tatsuya; Wallqvist, Anders; Reifman, Jaques
2017-10-13
Researchers have previously developed a multitude of methods designed to identify biological pathways associated with specific clinical or experimental conditions of interest, with the aim of facilitating biological interpretation of high-throughput data. Before practically applying such pathway analysis (PA) methods, we must first evaluate their performance and reliability, using datasets where the pathways perturbed by the conditions of interest have been well characterized in advance. However, such 'ground truths' (or gold standards) are often unavailable. Furthermore, previous evaluation strategies that have focused on defining 'true answers' are unable to systematically and objectively assess PA methods under a wide range of conditions. In this work, we propose a novel strategy for evaluating PA methods independently of any gold standard, either established or assumed. The strategy involves the use of two mutually complementary metrics, recall and discrimination. Recall measures the consistency of the perturbed pathways identified by applying a particular analysis method to an original large dataset and those identified by the same method to a sub-dataset of the original dataset. In contrast, discrimination measures specificity-the degree to which the perturbed pathways identified by a particular method to a dataset from one experiment differ from those identifying by the same method to a dataset from a different experiment. We used these metrics and 24 datasets to evaluate six widely used PA methods. The results highlighted the common challenge in reliably identifying significant pathways from small datasets. Importantly, we confirmed the effectiveness of our proposed dual-metric strategy by showing that previous comparative studies corroborate the performance evaluations of the six methods obtained by our strategy. Unlike any previously proposed strategy for evaluating the performance of PA methods, our dual-metric strategy does not rely on any ground truth, either established or assumed, of the pathways perturbed by a specific clinical or experimental condition. As such, our strategy allows researchers to systematically and objectively evaluate pathway analysis methods by employing any number of datasets for a variety of conditions.
The Effects of Directional Processing on Objective and Subjective Listening Effort
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Picou, Erin M.; Moore, Travis M.; Ricketts, Todd A.
2017-01-01
Purpose: The purposes of this investigation were (a) to evaluate the effects of hearing aid directional processing on subjective and objective listening effort and (b) to investigate the potential relationships between subjective and objective measures of effort. Method: Sixteen adults with mild to severe hearing loss were tested with study…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Zahid, Muhammad Ajmal; Al-Zayed, Adel; Ohaeri, Jude; Varghese, Ramani
2011-01-01
Objective: The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) was introduced in undergraduate psychiatry clerkship in 2008. The authors studied the effect of OSCE on the students' performance. Methods: The "short case" (SC) and "oral examination" (OE), two of the five components of the previous assessment format, were…
Hoseini, Bibi Leila; Mazloum, Seyed Reza; Jafarnejad, Farzaneh; Foroughipour, Mohsen
2013-03-01
The clinical evaluation, as one of the most important elements in medical education, must measure students' competencies and abilities. The implementation of any assessment tool is basically dependent on the acceptance of students. This study tried to assess midwifery students' satisfaction with Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) and current clinical evaluation methods. This quasi-experimental study was conducted in the university hospitals affiliated to Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. The subjects comprised 67 undergraduate midwifery students selected by convenience sampling and allocated to control and intervention groups according to the training transposition. Current method was performed in the control group, and DOPS was conducted in the intervention group. The applied tools included DOPS rating scales, logbook, and satisfaction questionnaires with clinical evaluation methods. Validity and reliability of these tools were approved. At the end of training, students' satisfaction with the evaluation methods was assessed by the mentioned tools. The data were analyzed by descriptive and analytical statistics. Satisfaction mean scores of midwifery students with DOPS and current methods were 76.7 ± 12.9 and 62.6 ± 14.7 (out of 100), respectively. DOPS students' satisfaction mean score was significantly higher than the score obtained in current method (P < 0.000). The most satisfactory domains in the current method were "consistence with learning objectives" (71.2 ± 14.9) and "objectiveness" in DOPS (87.9 ± 15.0). In contrast, the least satisfactory domains in the current method were "interested in applying the method" (57.8 ± 26.5) and "number of assessments for each skill" (58.8 ± 25.9) in DOPS method. This study showed that DOPS method is associated with greater students' satisfaction. Since the students' satisfaction with the current method was also acceptable, we recommend combining this new clinical evaluation method with the current method, which covers its weaknesses, to promote the students' satisfaction with clinical evaluation methods in a perfect manner.
Computer-aided analysis with Image J for quantitatively assessing psoriatic lesion area.
Sun, Z; Wang, Y; Ji, S; Wang, K; Zhao, Y
2015-11-01
Body surface area is important in determining the severity of psoriasis. However, objective, reliable, and practical method is still in need for this purpose. We performed a computer image analysis (CIA) of psoriatic area using the image J freeware to determine whether this method could be used for objective evaluation of psoriatic area. Fifteen psoriasis patients were randomized to be treated with adalimumab or placebo in a clinical trial. At each visit, the psoriasis area of each body site was estimated by two physicians (E-method), and standard photographs were taken. The psoriasis area in the pictures was assessed with CIA using semi-automatic threshold selection (T-method), or manual selection (M-method, gold standard). The results assessed by the three methods were analyzed with reliability and affecting factors evaluated. Both T- and E-method correlated strongly with M-method, and T-method had a slightly stronger correlation with M-method. Both T- and E-methods had a good consistency between the evaluators. All the three methods were able to detect the change in the psoriatic area after treatment, while the E-method tends to overestimate. The CIA with image J freeware is reliable and practicable in quantitatively assessing the lesional of psoriasis area. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Stice, Eric; Rohde, Paul; Seeley, John R.; Gau, Jeff M.
2010-01-01
Objective: Evaluate a new 5-step method for testing mediators hypothesized to account for the effects of depression prevention programs. Method: In this indicated prevention trial, at-risk teens with elevated depressive symptoms were randomized to a group cognitive-behavioral (CB) intervention, group supportive expressive intervention, CB…
Empirical research in service engineering based on AHP and fuzzy methods
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhang, Yanrui; Cao, Wenfu; Zhang, Lina
2015-12-01
Recent years, management consulting industry has been rapidly developing worldwide. Taking a big management consulting company as research object, this paper established an index system of service quality of consulting, based on customer satisfaction survey, evaluated service quality of the consulting company by AHP and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation methods.
DEVELOPMENT OF CRITERIA AND METHODS FOR EVALUATING TRAINER AIRCRAFT EFFECTIVENESS.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
KUSEWITT, J.B.
THE PURPOSE OF THIS STUDY WAS TO DEVELOP A METHOD FOR DETERMINING OBJECTIVE MEASURES OF TRAINER AIRCRAFT EFFECTIVENESS TO EVALUATE PROGRAM ALTERNATIVES FOR TRAINING PILOTS FOR FLEET FIGHTER AND ATTACK-TYPE AIRCRAFT. THE TRAINING SYLLABUS WAS BASED ON AVERAGE STUDENT ABILITY. THE BASIC PROBLEM WAS TO ESTABLISH QUANTITATIVE TIME-DIFFICULTY…
Personality and Student Performance on Evaluation Methods Used in Business Administration Courses
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Lakhal, Sawsen; Sévigny, Serge; Frenette, Éric
2015-01-01
The objective of this study was to verify whether personality (Big Five model) influences performance on the evaluation methods used in business administration courses. A sample of 169 students enrolled in two compulsory undergraduate business courses responded to an online questionnaire. As it is difficult within the same course to assess…
Process Evaluation of a Parenting Program for Low-Income Families in South Africa
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Lachman, Jamie M.; Kelly, Jane; Cluver, Lucie; Ward, Catherine L.; Hutchings, Judy; Gardner, Frances
2018-01-01
Objective: This mixed-methods process evaluation examined the feasibility of a parenting program delivered by community facilitators to reduce the risk of child maltreatment in low-income families with children aged 3-8 years in Cape Town, South Africa (N = 68). Method: Quantitative measures included attendance registers, fidelity checklists,…
34 CFR 410.21 - What selection criteria does the Secretary use for institutional support grants?
Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR
2010-07-01
... years reflecting the number and required qualifications of the teaching and administrative staff, the...; (2) The methods of evaluation are appropriate and, to the extent possible, are objective and produce data that are quantifiable; and (3) The methods of evaluation provide periodic data that can be used...
34 CFR 410.21 - What selection criteria does the Secretary use for institutional support grants?
Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR
2011-07-01
... years reflecting the number and required qualifications of the teaching and administrative staff, the...; (2) The methods of evaluation are appropriate and, to the extent possible, are objective and produce data that are quantifiable; and (3) The methods of evaluation provide periodic data that can be used...
34 CFR 410.21 - What selection criteria does the Secretary use for institutional support grants?
Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR
2014-07-01
... years reflecting the number and required qualifications of the teaching and administrative staff, the...; (2) The methods of evaluation are appropriate and, to the extent possible, are objective and produce data that are quantifiable; and (3) The methods of evaluation provide periodic data that can be used...
34 CFR 410.21 - What selection criteria does the Secretary use for institutional support grants?
Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR
2012-07-01
... years reflecting the number and required qualifications of the teaching and administrative staff, the...; (2) The methods of evaluation are appropriate and, to the extent possible, are objective and produce data that are quantifiable; and (3) The methods of evaluation provide periodic data that can be used...
34 CFR 410.21 - What selection criteria does the Secretary use for institutional support grants?
Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR
2013-07-01
... years reflecting the number and required qualifications of the teaching and administrative staff, the...; (2) The methods of evaluation are appropriate and, to the extent possible, are objective and produce data that are quantifiable; and (3) The methods of evaluation provide periodic data that can be used...
The main objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of sampling methods for potential use as a Federal Reference Method (FRM) capable of providing an estimate of coarse particle (PMc: particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter between 2.5 um and 10 um) mass con...
Integrating Prevention into Obstetrics/Gynecology.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Carey, J. Christopher
2000-01-01
Discusses formats to teach preventive medicine in obstetrics and gynecology (including learning objectives, lectures/seminars, and rounds/office practice) and evaluation methods (oral examinations, computerized question banks, objective structured clinical examinations). Offers examples from specific programs at American medical schools, including…
Asphaltic mixture compaction and density validation : research brief.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2017-02-01
Research Objectives: : Evaluate HMA longitudinal joint type, method and compaction data to produce specification recommendations to ensure the highest density at longitudinal joints : Evaluate thin lift overlay HMA and provide recommendations...
Numerical computation of gravitational field for general axisymmetric objects
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Fukushima, Toshio
2016-10-01
We developed a numerical method to compute the gravitational field of a general axisymmetric object. The method (I) numerically evaluates a double integral of the ring potential by the split quadrature method using the double exponential rules, and (II) derives the acceleration vector by numerically differentiating the numerically integrated potential by Ridder's algorithm. Numerical comparison with the analytical solutions for a finite uniform spheroid and an infinitely extended object of the Miyamoto-Nagai density distribution confirmed the 13- and 11-digit accuracy of the potential and the acceleration vector computed by the method, respectively. By using the method, we present the gravitational potential contour map and/or the rotation curve of various axisymmetric objects: (I) finite uniform objects covering rhombic spindles and circular toroids, (II) infinitely extended spheroids including Sérsic and Navarro-Frenk-White spheroids, and (III) other axisymmetric objects such as an X/peanut-shaped object like NGC 128, a power-law disc with a central hole like the protoplanetary disc of TW Hya, and a tear-drop-shaped toroid like an axisymmetric equilibrium solution of plasma charge distribution in an International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor-like tokamak. The method is directly applicable to the electrostatic field and will be easily extended for the magnetostatic field. The FORTRAN 90 programs of the new method and some test results are electronically available.
A user-friendly tool to evaluate the effectiveness of no-take marine reserves.
Villaseñor-Derbez, Juan Carlos; Faro, Caio; Wright, Melaina; Martínez, Jael; Fitzgerald, Sean; Fulton, Stuart; Mancha-Cisneros, Maria Del Mar; McDonald, Gavin; Micheli, Fiorenza; Suárez, Alvin; Torre, Jorge; Costello, Christopher
2018-01-01
Marine reserves are implemented to achieve a variety of objectives, but are seldom rigorously evaluated to determine whether those objectives are met. In the rare cases when evaluations do take place, they typically focus on ecological indicators and ignore other relevant objectives such as socioeconomics and governance. And regardless of the objectives, the diversity of locations, monitoring protocols, and analysis approaches hinder the ability to compare results across case studies. Moreover, analysis and evaluation of reserves is generally conducted by outside researchers, not the reserve managers or users, plausibly thereby hindering effective local management and rapid response to change. We present a framework and tool, called "MAREA", to overcome these challenges. Its purpose is to evaluate the extent to which any given reserve has achieved its stated objectives. MAREA provides specific guidance on data collection and formatting, and then conducts rigorous causal inference analysis based on data input by the user, providing real-time outputs about the effectiveness of the reserve. MAREA's ease of use, standardization of state-of-the-art inference methods, and ability to analyze marine reserve effectiveness across ecological, socioeconomic, and governance objectives could dramatically further our understanding and support of effective marine reserve management.
A user-friendly tool to evaluate the effectiveness of no-take marine reserves
Fitzgerald, Sean; Fulton, Stuart; Mancha-Cisneros, Maria del Mar; McDonald, Gavin; Micheli, Fiorenza; Suárez, Alvin; Torre, Jorge
2018-01-01
Marine reserves are implemented to achieve a variety of objectives, but are seldom rigorously evaluated to determine whether those objectives are met. In the rare cases when evaluations do take place, they typically focus on ecological indicators and ignore other relevant objectives such as socioeconomics and governance. And regardless of the objectives, the diversity of locations, monitoring protocols, and analysis approaches hinder the ability to compare results across case studies. Moreover, analysis and evaluation of reserves is generally conducted by outside researchers, not the reserve managers or users, plausibly thereby hindering effective local management and rapid response to change. We present a framework and tool, called “MAREA”, to overcome these challenges. Its purpose is to evaluate the extent to which any given reserve has achieved its stated objectives. MAREA provides specific guidance on data collection and formatting, and then conducts rigorous causal inference analysis based on data input by the user, providing real-time outputs about the effectiveness of the reserve. MAREA’s ease of use, standardization of state-of-the-art inference methods, and ability to analyze marine reserve effectiveness across ecological, socioeconomic, and governance objectives could dramatically further our understanding and support of effective marine reserve management. PMID:29381762
Haga, Yoshihiro; Chida, Koichi; Inaba, Yohei; Kaga, Yuji; Meguro, Taiichiro; Zuguchi, Masayuki
2016-02-01
As the use of diagnostic X-ray equipment with flat panel detectors (FPDs) has increased, so has the importance of proper management of FPD systems. To ensure quality control (QC) of FPD system, an easy method for evaluating FPD imaging performance for both stationary and moving objects is required. Until now, simple rotatable QC phantoms have not been available for the easy evaluation of the performance (spatial resolution and dynamic range) of FPD in imaging moving objects. We developed a QC phantom for this purpose. It consists of three thicknesses of copper and a rotatable test pattern of piano wires of various diameters. Initial tests confirmed its stable performance. Our moving phantom is very useful for QC of FPD images of moving objects because it enables visual evaluation of image performance (spatial resolution and dynamic range) easily.
Krityakierne, Tipaluck; Akhtar, Taimoor; Shoemaker, Christine A.
2016-02-02
This paper presents a parallel surrogate-based global optimization method for computationally expensive objective functions that is more effective for larger numbers of processors. To reach this goal, we integrated concepts from multi-objective optimization and tabu search into, single objective, surrogate optimization. Our proposed derivative-free algorithm, called SOP, uses non-dominated sorting of points for which the expensive function has been previously evaluated. The two objectives are the expensive function value of the point and the minimum distance of the point to previously evaluated points. Based on the results of non-dominated sorting, P points from the sorted fronts are selected as centersmore » from which many candidate points are generated by random perturbations. Based on surrogate approximation, the best candidate point is subsequently selected for expensive evaluation for each of the P centers, with simultaneous computation on P processors. Centers that previously did not generate good solutions are tabu with a given tenure. We show almost sure convergence of this algorithm under some conditions. The performance of SOP is compared with two RBF based methods. The test results show that SOP is an efficient method that can reduce time required to find a good near optimal solution. In a number of cases the efficiency of SOP is so good that SOP with 8 processors found an accurate answer in less wall-clock time than the other algorithms did with 32 processors.« less
Hrabovský, Miroslav
2014-01-01
The purpose of the study is to show a proposal of an extension of a one-dimensional speckle correlation method, which is primarily intended for determination of one-dimensional object's translation, for detection of general in-plane object's translation. In that view, a numerical simulation of a displacement of the speckle field as a consequence of general in-plane object's translation is presented. The translation components a x and a y representing the projections of a vector a of the object's displacement onto both x- and y-axes in the object plane (x, y) are evaluated separately by means of the extended one-dimensional speckle correlation method. Moreover, one can perform a distinct optimization of the method by reduction of intensity values representing detected speckle patterns. The theoretical relations between the translation components a x and a y of the object and the displacement of the speckle pattern for selected geometrical arrangement are mentioned and used for the testifying of the proposed method's rightness. PMID:24592180
Ingrassia, Pier Luigi; Prato, Federico; Geddo, Alessandro; Colombo, Davide; Tengattini, Marco; Calligaro, Sara; La Mura, Fabrizio; Franc, Jeffrey Michael; Della Corte, Francesco
2010-11-01
Functional exercises represent an important link between disaster planning and disaster response. Although these exercises are widely performed, no standardized method exists for their evaluation. To describe a simple and objective method to assess medical performance during functional exercise events. An evaluation tool comprising three data fields (triage, clinical maneuvers, and radio usage), accompanied by direct anecdotal observational methods, was used to evaluate a large functional mass casualty incident exercise. Seventeen medical responders managed 112 victims of a simulated building explosion. Although 81% of the patients were assigned the appropriate triage codes, evacuation from the site did not follow in priority. Required maneuvers were performed correctly in 85.2% of airway maneuvers and 78.7% of breathing maneuvers, however, significant under-treatment occurred, possibly due to equipment shortages. Extensive use of radio communication was documented. In evaluating this tool, the structured markers were informative, but further information provided by direct observation was invaluable. A three-part tool (triage, medical maneuvers, and radio usage) can provide a method to evaluate functional mass casualty incident exercises, and is easily implemented. For the best results, it should be used in conjunction with direct observation. The evaluation tool has great potential as a reproducible and internationally recognized tool for evaluating disaster management exercises. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Global Contrast Based Salient Region Detection.
Cheng, Ming-Ming; Mitra, Niloy J; Huang, Xiaolei; Torr, Philip H S; Hu, Shi-Min
2015-03-01
Automatic estimation of salient object regions across images, without any prior assumption or knowledge of the contents of the corresponding scenes, enhances many computer vision and computer graphics applications. We introduce a regional contrast based salient object detection algorithm, which simultaneously evaluates global contrast differences and spatial weighted coherence scores. The proposed algorithm is simple, efficient, naturally multi-scale, and produces full-resolution, high-quality saliency maps. These saliency maps are further used to initialize a novel iterative version of GrabCut, namely SaliencyCut, for high quality unsupervised salient object segmentation. We extensively evaluated our algorithm using traditional salient object detection datasets, as well as a more challenging Internet image dataset. Our experimental results demonstrate that our algorithm consistently outperforms 15 existing salient object detection and segmentation methods, yielding higher precision and better recall rates. We also show that our algorithm can be used to efficiently extract salient object masks from Internet images, enabling effective sketch-based image retrieval (SBIR) via simple shape comparisons. Despite such noisy internet images, where the saliency regions are ambiguous, our saliency guided image retrieval achieves a superior retrieval rate compared with state-of-the-art SBIR methods, and additionally provides important target object region information.
Evaluation of Telephone Health Coaching of German Health Insurants with Chronic Conditions
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Härter, Martin; Dwinger, Sarah; Seebauer, Laura; Simon, Daniela; Herbarth, Lutz; Siegmund-Schultze, Elisabeth; Temmert, Daniel; Bermejo, Isaac; Dirmaier, Jörg
2013-01-01
Objective: This study aimed to investigate how patients with chronic conditions evaluate telephone health coaching provided by their health insurance company. Methods: A retrospective survey was conducted among coaching participants ("n" = 834). Outcomes included the general evaluation of the coaching, the evaluation of process and…
Core-Oriented Lexical Translation Evaluation (COLTE)
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Jahangiri, A. M.
1998-01-01
Objective measurement in translation evaluation is a relatively untouched area, especially at the level of the lexis. No thoroughly worked-out method has been put forward for the scientific evaluation of a translation. Yet few translators would question the potential value of such a device. Certainly translation evaluation is not limited to the…
Probability-Based Recognition Framework for Underwater Landmarks Using Sonar Images †.
Lee, Yeongjun; Choi, Jinwoo; Ko, Nak Yong; Choi, Hyun-Taek
2017-08-24
This paper proposes a probability-based framework for recognizing underwater landmarks using sonar images. Current recognition methods use a single image, which does not provide reliable results because of weaknesses of the sonar image such as unstable acoustic source, many speckle noises, low resolution images, single channel image, and so on. However, using consecutive sonar images, if the status-i.e., the existence and identity (or name)-of an object is continuously evaluated by a stochastic method, the result of the recognition method is available for calculating the uncertainty, and it is more suitable for various applications. Our proposed framework consists of three steps: (1) candidate selection, (2) continuity evaluation, and (3) Bayesian feature estimation. Two probability methods-particle filtering and Bayesian feature estimation-are used to repeatedly estimate the continuity and feature of objects in consecutive images. Thus, the status of the object is repeatedly predicted and updated by a stochastic method. Furthermore, we develop an artificial landmark to increase detectability by an imaging sonar, which we apply to the characteristics of acoustic waves, such as instability and reflection depending on the roughness of the reflector surface. The proposed method is verified by conducting basin experiments, and the results are presented.
Impact of Data Placement on Resilience in Large-Scale Object Storage Systems
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Carns, Philip; Harms, Kevin; Jenkins, John
Distributed object storage architectures have become the de facto standard for high-performance storage in big data, cloud, and HPC computing. Object storage deployments using commodity hardware to reduce costs often employ object replication as a method to achieve data resilience. Repairing object replicas after failure is a daunting task for systems with thousands of servers and billions of objects, however, and it is increasingly difficult to evaluate such scenarios at scale on realworld systems. Resilience and availability are both compromised if objects are not repaired in a timely manner. In this work we leverage a high-fidelity discrete-event simulation model tomore » investigate replica reconstruction on large-scale object storage systems with thousands of servers, billions of objects, and petabytes of data. We evaluate the behavior of CRUSH, a well-known object placement algorithm, and identify configuration scenarios in which aggregate rebuild performance is constrained by object placement policies. After determining the root cause of this bottleneck, we then propose enhancements to CRUSH and the usage policies atop it to enable scalable replica reconstruction. We use these methods to demonstrate a simulated aggregate rebuild rate of 410 GiB/s (within 5% of projected ideal linear scaling) on a 1,024-node commodity storage system. We also uncover an unexpected phenomenon in rebuild performance based on the characteristics of the data stored on the system.« less
Life cycle cost assessment of future low heat rejection engines
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Petersen, D. R.
1986-01-01
The Adiabatic Diesel Engine Component Development (ADECD) represents a project which has the objective to accelerate the development of highway truck engines with advanced technology aimed at reduced fuel consumption. The project comprises three steps, including the synthesis of a number of engine candidate designs, the coupling of each with a number of systems for utilizing exhaust gas energy, and the evaluation of each combination in terms of desirability. Particular attention is given to the employed evaluation method and the development of this method. The objective of Life Cycle Cost (LCC) evaluation in the ADECD program was to select the best from among 42 different low heat rejection engine (LHRE)/exhaust energy recovery system configurations. The LCC model is discussed along with a maintenance cost model, the evaluation strategy, the selection of parameter ranges, and a full factorial analysis.
Ertekin, C; Aydoğdu, I; Yüceyar, N
1996-01-01
OBJECTIVE: Before the advanced evaluation of deglutition and selection of a treatment method, objective screening methods are necessary for patients with dysphagia. In this study a new electroclinical test was established to evaluate patients with dysphagia. METHODS: This test is based on determining piecemeal deglutition; which is a physiological phenomenon occurring when a bolus of a large volume is divided into two or more parts which are swallowed successively. The combined electrophysiological and mechanical method used to record laryngeal movements detected by a piezoelectric transducer, and activities of the related submental integrated EMG (SM-EMG)-and sometimes the cricopharyngeal muscle of the upper oesophageal sphincter (CP-EMG)-were performed during swallowing. Thirty normal subjects and 66 patients with overt dysphagia of neurogenic origin were investigated after detailed clinical evaluation. Twenty patients with a potential risk of dysphagia, but who were normal clinically at the time of investigation, were also evaluated to determine the specificity of the test. All subjects were instructed to swallow doses of water, gradually increasing in quantity from 1 ml to 20 ml, and any recurrence of the signals related to swallowing within the eight seconds was accepted as a sign of dysphagia limit. RESULTS: In normal subjects as well as in the patients without dysphagia, piecemeal deglutition was never seen with less than 20 ml water. This volume was therefore accepted as the lower limit of piecemeal deglutition. In patients with dysphagia, dysphagia limits were significantly lower than those of normal subjects. CONCLUSION: The method is a highly specific and sensitive test for the objective evaluation of oropharyngeal dysphagia even in patients with suspected dysphagia of neurogenic origin. It can also be safely and simply applied in any EMG laboratory. PMID:8937344
Evaluating a Model of Youth Physical Activity
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Heitzler, Carrie D.; Lytle, Leslie A.; Erickson, Darin J.; Barr-Anderson, Daheia; Sirard, John R.; Story, Mary
2010-01-01
Objective: To explore the relationship between social influences, self-efficacy, enjoyment, and barriers and physical activity. Methods: Structural equation modeling examined relationships between parent and peer support, parent physical activity, individual perceptions, and objectively measured physical activity using accelerometers among a…
Image quality evaluation of full reference algorithm
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
He, Nannan; Xie, Kai; Li, Tong; Ye, Yushan
2018-03-01
Image quality evaluation is a classic research topic, the goal is to design the algorithm, given the subjective feelings consistent with the evaluation value. This paper mainly introduces several typical reference methods of Mean Squared Error(MSE), Peak Signal to Noise Rate(PSNR), Structural Similarity Image Metric(SSIM) and feature similarity(FSIM) of objective evaluation methods. The different evaluation methods are tested by Matlab, and the advantages and disadvantages of these methods are obtained by analyzing and comparing them.MSE and PSNR are simple, but they are not considered to introduce HVS characteristics into image quality evaluation. The evaluation result is not ideal. SSIM has a good correlation and simple calculation ,because it is considered to the human visual effect into image quality evaluation,However the SSIM method is based on a hypothesis,The evaluation result is limited. The FSIM method can be used for test of gray image and color image test, and the result is better. Experimental results show that the new image quality evaluation algorithm based on FSIM is more accurate.
Jha, Abhinav K; Caffo, Brian; Frey, Eric C
2016-01-01
The objective optimization and evaluation of nuclear-medicine quantitative imaging methods using patient data is highly desirable but often hindered by the lack of a gold standard. Previously, a regression-without-truth (RWT) approach has been proposed for evaluating quantitative imaging methods in the absence of a gold standard, but this approach implicitly assumes that bounds on the distribution of true values are known. Several quantitative imaging methods in nuclear-medicine imaging measure parameters where these bounds are not known, such as the activity concentration in an organ or the volume of a tumor. We extended upon the RWT approach to develop a no-gold-standard (NGS) technique for objectively evaluating such quantitative nuclear-medicine imaging methods with patient data in the absence of any ground truth. Using the parameters estimated with the NGS technique, a figure of merit, the noise-to-slope ratio (NSR), can be computed, which can rank the methods on the basis of precision. An issue with NGS evaluation techniques is the requirement of a large number of patient studies. To reduce this requirement, the proposed method explored the use of multiple quantitative measurements from the same patient, such as the activity concentration values from different organs in the same patient. The proposed technique was evaluated using rigorous numerical experiments and using data from realistic simulation studies. The numerical experiments demonstrated that the NSR was estimated accurately using the proposed NGS technique when the bounds on the distribution of true values were not precisely known, thus serving as a very reliable metric for ranking the methods on the basis of precision. In the realistic simulation study, the NGS technique was used to rank reconstruction methods for quantitative single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) based on their performance on the task of estimating the mean activity concentration within a known volume of interest. Results showed that the proposed technique provided accurate ranking of the reconstruction methods for 97.5% of the 50 noise realizations. Further, the technique was robust to the choice of evaluated reconstruction methods. The simulation study pointed to possible violations of the assumptions made in the NGS technique under clinical scenarios. However, numerical experiments indicated that the NGS technique was robust in ranking methods even when there was some degree of such violation. PMID:26982626
Jha, Abhinav K; Caffo, Brian; Frey, Eric C
2016-04-07
The objective optimization and evaluation of nuclear-medicine quantitative imaging methods using patient data is highly desirable but often hindered by the lack of a gold standard. Previously, a regression-without-truth (RWT) approach has been proposed for evaluating quantitative imaging methods in the absence of a gold standard, but this approach implicitly assumes that bounds on the distribution of true values are known. Several quantitative imaging methods in nuclear-medicine imaging measure parameters where these bounds are not known, such as the activity concentration in an organ or the volume of a tumor. We extended upon the RWT approach to develop a no-gold-standard (NGS) technique for objectively evaluating such quantitative nuclear-medicine imaging methods with patient data in the absence of any ground truth. Using the parameters estimated with the NGS technique, a figure of merit, the noise-to-slope ratio (NSR), can be computed, which can rank the methods on the basis of precision. An issue with NGS evaluation techniques is the requirement of a large number of patient studies. To reduce this requirement, the proposed method explored the use of multiple quantitative measurements from the same patient, such as the activity concentration values from different organs in the same patient. The proposed technique was evaluated using rigorous numerical experiments and using data from realistic simulation studies. The numerical experiments demonstrated that the NSR was estimated accurately using the proposed NGS technique when the bounds on the distribution of true values were not precisely known, thus serving as a very reliable metric for ranking the methods on the basis of precision. In the realistic simulation study, the NGS technique was used to rank reconstruction methods for quantitative single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) based on their performance on the task of estimating the mean activity concentration within a known volume of interest. Results showed that the proposed technique provided accurate ranking of the reconstruction methods for 97.5% of the 50 noise realizations. Further, the technique was robust to the choice of evaluated reconstruction methods. The simulation study pointed to possible violations of the assumptions made in the NGS technique under clinical scenarios. However, numerical experiments indicated that the NGS technique was robust in ranking methods even when there was some degree of such violation.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
-Aurel Cherecheş, Ioan; -Ioana Borzan, Adela; -Laurean Băldean, Doru
2017-10-01
Study of construction and wearing process in the case of piston-rings and other significant components from internal combustion engines leads at any time to creative and useful optimizing ideas, both in designing and manufacturing phases. Main objective of the present paper is to realize an interdisciplinary research using advanced methods in piston-rings evaluation of a common vehicle on the streets which is Ford Focus FYDD. Specific objectives are a theoretical study of the idea for advanced analysis method in piston-rings evaluation and an applied research developed in at Technical University from Cluj-Napoca with the motor vehicle caught in the repairing process.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chien, Kuang-Che Chang; Tu, Han-Yen; Hsieh, Ching-Huang; Cheng, Chau-Jern; Chang, Chun-Yen
2018-01-01
This study proposes a regional fringe analysis (RFA) method to detect the regions of a target object in captured shifted images to improve depth measurement in phase-shifting fringe projection profilometry (PS-FPP). In the RFA method, region-based segmentation is exploited to segment the de-fringed image of a target object, and a multi-level fuzzy-based classification with five presented features is used to analyze and discriminate the regions of an object from the segmented regions, which were associated with explicit fringe information. Then, in the experiment, the performance of the proposed method is tested and evaluated on 26 test cases made of five types of materials. The qualitative and quantitative results demonstrate that the proposed RFA method can effectively detect the desired regions of an object to improve depth measurement in the PS-FPP system.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Grunin, A. P.; Kalinov, G. A.; Bolokhovtsev, A. V.; Sai, S. V.
2018-05-01
This article reports on a novel method to improve the accuracy of positioning an object by a low frequency hyperbolic radio navigation system like an eLoran. This method is based on the application of the standard Kalman filter. Investigations of an affection of the filter parameters and the type of the movement on accuracy of the vehicle position estimation are carried out. Evaluation of the method accuracy was investigated by separating data from the semi-empirical movement model to different types of movements.
An Objective Measure of Interconnection Usage for High Levels of Wind Integration
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Yasuda, Yoh; Gomez-Lazaro, Emilio; Holttinen, Hannele
2014-11-13
This paper analyzes selected interconnectors in Europe using several evaluation factors; capacity factor, congested time, and congestion ratio. In a quantitative and objective evaluation, the authors propose to use publically available data on maximum net transmission capacity (NTC) levels during a single year to study congestion rates, realizing that the capacity factor depends upon the chosen capacity of the selected interconnector. This value will be referred to as 'the annual maximum transmission capacity (AMTC)', which gives a transparent and objective evaluation of interconnector usage based on the published grid data. While the method is general, its initial application is motivatedmore » by transfer of renewable energy.« less
Discomfort Evaluation of Truck Ingress/Egress Motions Based on Biomechanical Analysis
Choi, Nam-Chul; Lee, Sang Hun
2015-01-01
This paper presents a quantitative discomfort evaluation method based on biomechanical analysis results for human body movement, as well as its application to an assessment of the discomfort for truck ingress and egress. In this study, the motions of a human subject entering and exiting truck cabins with different types, numbers, and heights of footsteps were first measured using an optical motion capture system and load sensors. Next, the maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) ratios of the muscles were calculated through a biomechanical analysis of the musculoskeletal human model for the captured motion. Finally, the objective discomfort was evaluated using the proposed discomfort model based on the MVC ratios. To validate this new discomfort assessment method, human subject experiments were performed to investigate the subjective discomfort levels through a questionnaire for comparison with the objective discomfort levels. The validation results showed that the correlation between the objective and subjective discomforts was significant and could be described by a linear regression model. PMID:26067194
Ren, Jingzheng
2018-01-01
This objective of this study is to develop a generic multi-attribute decision analysis framework for ranking the technologies for ballast water treatment and determine their grades. An evaluation criteria system consisting of eight criteria in four categories was used to evaluate the technologies for ballast water treatment. The Best-Worst method, which is a subjective weighting method and Criteria importance through inter-criteria correlation method, which is an objective weighting method, were combined to determine the weights of the evaluation criteria. The extension theory was employed to prioritize the technologies for ballast water treatment and determine their grades. An illustrative case including four technologies for ballast water treatment, i.e. Alfa Laval (T 1 ), Hyde (T 2 ), Unitor (T 3 ), and NaOH (T 4 ), were studied by the proposed method, and the Hyde (T 2 ) was recognized as the best technology. Sensitivity analysis was also carried to investigate the effects of the combined coefficients and the weights of the evaluation criteria on the final priority order of the four technologies for ballast water treatment. The sum weighted method and the TOPSIS was also employed to rank the four technologies, and the results determined by these two methods are consistent to that determined by the proposed method in this study. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
A new method to evaluate image quality of CBCT images quantitatively without observers
Shimizu, Mayumi; Okamura, Kazutoshi; Yoshida, Shoko; Weerawanich, Warangkana; Tokumori, Kenji; Jasa, Gainer R; Yoshiura, Kazunori
2017-01-01
Objectives: To develop an observer-free method for quantitatively evaluating the image quality of CBCT images by applying just-noticeable difference (JND). Methods: We used two test objects: (1) a Teflon (polytetrafluoroethylene) plate phantom attached to a dry human mandible; and (2) a block phantom consisting of a Teflon step phantom and an aluminium step phantom. These phantoms had holes with different depths. They were immersed in water and scanned with a CB MercuRay (Hitachi Medical Corporation, Tokyo, Japan) at tube voltages of 120 kV, 100 kV, 80 kV and 60 kV. Superimposed images of the phantoms with holes were used for evaluation. The number of detectable holes was used as an index of image quality. In detecting holes quantitatively, the threshold grey value (ΔG), which differentiated holes from the background, was calculated using a specific threshold (the JND), and we extracted the holes with grey values above ΔG. The indices obtained by this quantitative method (the extracted hole values) were compared with the observer evaluations (the observed hole values). In addition, the contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the shallowest detectable holes and the deepest undetectable holes were measured to evaluate the contribution of CNR to detectability. Results: The results of this evaluation method corresponded almost exactly with the evaluations made by observers. The extracted hole values reflected the influence of different tube voltages. All extracted holes had an area with a CNR of ≥1.5. Conclusions: This quantitative method of evaluating CBCT image quality may be more useful and less time-consuming than evaluation by observation. PMID:28045343
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of egg quality of stripped eggs from channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus) and method of incubation of fertilized hybrid catfish eggs on hatching success. Stripped eggs from 17 channel catfish females were evaluated in a 2 x 2 factorial...
The main objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of candidate sampling methods for potential use as a Federal Reference Method (FRM) capable of providing an estimate of coarse particle (PMc: particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter between 2.5 um and 10 um...
Evaluation of alternative snowplowable markers and snowplowing procedures.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2013-06-01
The objectives of this study were to investigate viable alternatives to the currently approved snowplowable raised pavement marker and alternative methods and equipment used to snowplow roadways. The study included evaluating any potential durable an...
A singular-value method for reconstruction of nonradial and lossy objects.
Jiang, Wei; Astheimer, Jeffrey; Waag, Robert
2012-03-01
Efficient inverse scattering algorithms for nonradial lossy objects are presented using singular-value decomposition to form reduced-rank representations of the scattering operator. These algorithms extend eigenfunction methods that are not applicable to nonradial lossy scattering objects because the scattering operators for these objects do not have orthonormal eigenfunction decompositions. A method of local reconstruction by segregation of scattering contributions from different local regions is also presented. Scattering from each region is isolated by forming a reduced-rank representation of the scattering operator that has domain and range spaces comprised of far-field patterns with retransmitted fields that focus on the local region. Methods for the estimation of the boundary, average sound speed, and average attenuation slope of the scattering object are also given. These methods yielded approximations of scattering objects that were sufficiently accurate to allow residual variations to be reconstructed in a single iteration. Calculated scattering from a lossy elliptical object with a random background, internal features, and white noise is used to evaluate the proposed methods. Local reconstruction yielded images with spatial resolution that is finer than a half wavelength of the center frequency and reproduces sound speed and attenuation slope with relative root-mean-square errors of 1.09% and 11.45%, respectively.
A Comparative Analysis of Three Monocular Passive Ranging Methods on Real Infrared Sequences
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bondžulić, Boban P.; Mitrović, Srđan T.; Barbarić, Žarko P.; Andrić, Milenko S.
2013-09-01
Three monocular passive ranging methods are analyzed and tested on the real infrared sequences. The first method exploits scale changes of an object in successive frames, while other two use Beer-Lambert's Law. Ranging methods are evaluated by comparing with simultaneously obtained reference data at the test site. Research is addressed on scenarios where multiple sensor views or active measurements are not possible. The results show that these methods for range estimation can provide the fidelity required for object tracking. Maximum values of relative distance estimation errors in near-ideal conditions are less than 8%.
Object detection system based on multimodel saliency maps
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Guo, Ya'nan; Luo, Chongfan; Ma, Yide
2017-03-01
Detection of visually salient image regions is extensively applied in computer vision and computer graphics, such as object detection, adaptive compression, and object recognition, but any single model always has its limitations to various images, so in our work, we establish a method based on multimodel saliency maps to detect the object, which intelligently absorbs the merits of various individual saliency detection models to achieve promising results. The method can be roughly divided into three steps: in the first step, we propose a decision-making system to evaluate saliency maps obtained by seven competitive methods and merely select the three most valuable saliency maps; in the second step, we introduce heterogeneous PCNN algorithm to obtain three prime foregrounds; and then a self-designed nonlinear fusion method is proposed to merge these saliency maps; at last, the adaptive improved and simplified PCNN model is used to detect the object. Our proposed method can constitute an object detection system for different occasions, which requires no training, is simple, and highly efficient. The proposed saliency fusion technique shows better performance over a broad range of images and enriches the applicability range by fusing different individual saliency models, this proposed system is worthy enough to be called a strong model. Moreover, the proposed adaptive improved SPCNN model is stemmed from the Eckhorn's neuron model, which is skilled in image segmentation because of its biological background, and in which all the parameters are adaptive to image information. We extensively appraise our algorithm on classical salient object detection database, and the experimental results demonstrate that the aggregation of saliency maps outperforms the best saliency model in all cases, yielding highest precision of 89.90%, better recall rates of 98.20%, greatest F-measure of 91.20%, and lowest mean absolute error value of 0.057, the value of proposed saliency evaluation EHA reaches to 215.287. We deem our method can be wielded to diverse applications in the future.
Mansoorian, Mohammad Reza; Hosseiny, Marzeih Sadat; Khosravan, Shahla; Alami, Ali; Alaviani, Mehri
2015-06-01
Despite the benefits of the objective structured assessment of technical skills (OSATS) and it appropriateness for evaluating clinical abilities of nursing students , few studies are available on the application of this method in nursing education. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of using OSATS and traditional methods on the students' learning. We also aimed to signify students' views about these two methods and their views about the scores they received in these methods in a medical emergency course. A quasi-experimental study was performed on 45 first semester students in nursing and medical emergencies passing a course on fundamentals of practice. The students were selected by a census method and evaluated by both the OSATS and traditional methods. Data collection was performed using checklists prepared based on the 'text book of nursing procedures checklists' published by Iranian nursing organization and a questionnaire containing learning rate and students' estimation of their received scores. Descriptive statistics as well as paired t-test and independent samples t-test were used in data analysis. The mean of students' score in OSATS was significantly higher than their mean score in traditional method (P = 0.01). Moreover, the mean of self-evaluation score after the traditional method was relatively the same as the score the students received in the exam. However, the mean of self-evaluation score after the OSATS was relatively lower than the scores the students received in the OSATS exam. Most students believed that OSATS can evaluate a wide range of students' knowledge and skills compared to traditional method. Results of this study indicated the better effect of OSATS on learning and its relative superiority in precise assessment of clinical skills compared with the traditional evaluation method. Therefore, we recommend using this method in evaluation of students in practical courses.
Evaluation Framework for NASA's Educational Outreach Programs
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Berg, Rick; Booker, Angela; Linde, Charlotte; Preston, Connie
1999-01-01
The objective of the proposed work is to develop an evaluation framework for NASA's educational outreach efforts. We focus on public (rather than technical or scientific) dissemination efforts, specifically on Internet-based outreach sites for children.The outcome of this work is to propose both methods and criteria for evaluation, which would enable NASA to do a more analytic evaluation of its outreach efforts. The proposed framework is based on IRL's ethnographic and video-based observational methods, which allow us to analyze how these sites are actually used.
2014-01-01
Background The fatigue that users suffer when using steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP)-based brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) can cause a number of serious problems such as signal quality degradation and system performance deterioration, users’ discomfort and even risk of photosensitive epileptic seizures, posing heavy restrictions on the applications of SSVEP-based BCIs. Towards alleviating the fatigue, a fundamental step is to measure and evaluate it but most existing works adopt self-reported questionnaire methods which are subjective, offline and memory dependent. This paper proposes an objective and real-time approach based on electroencephalography (EEG) spectral analysis to evaluate the fatigue in SSVEP-based BCIs. Methods How the EEG indices (amplitudes in δ, θ, α and β frequency bands), the selected ratio indices (θ/α and (θ + α)/β), and SSVEP properties (amplitude and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)) changes with the increasing fatigue level are investigated through two elaborate SSVEP-based BCI experiments, one validates mainly the effectiveness and another considers more practical situations. Meanwhile, a self-reported fatigue questionnaire is used to provide a subjective reference. ANOVA is employed to test the significance of the difference between the alert state and the fatigue state for each index. Results Consistent results are obtained in two experiments: the significant increases in α and (θ + α)/β, as well as the decrease in θ/α are found associated with the increasing fatigue level, indicating that EEG spectral analysis can provide robust objective evaluation of the fatigue in SSVEP-based BCIs. Moreover, the results show that the amplitude and SNR of the elicited SSVEP are significantly affected by users’ fatigue. Conclusions The experiment results demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method as an objective and real-time evaluation of the fatigue in SSVEP-based BCIs. This method would be helpful in understanding the fatigue problem and optimizing the system design to alleviate the fatigue in SSVEP-based BCIs. PMID:24621009
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yue, Kang; Wang, Danli; Yang, Xinpan; Hu, Haichen; Liu, Yuqing; Zhu, Xiuqing
2016-10-01
To date, as the different application fields, most VR-based training systems have been different. Therefore, we should take the characteristics of application field into consideration and adopt different evaluation methods when evaluate the user experience of these training systems. In this paper, we propose a method to evaluate the user experience of virtual astronauts training system. Also, we design an experiment based on the proposed method. The proposed method takes learning performance as one of the evaluation dimensions, also combines with other evaluation dimensions such as: presence, immersion, pleasure, satisfaction and fatigue to evaluation user experience of the System. We collect subjective and objective data, the subjective data are mainly from questionnaire designed based on the evaluation dimensions and user interview conducted before and after the experiment. While the objective data are consisted of Electrocardiogram (ECG), reaction time, numbers of reaction error and the video data recorded during the experiment. For the analysis of data, we calculate the integrated score of each evaluation dimension by using factor analysis. In order to improve the credibility of the assessment, we use the ECG signal and reaction test data before and after experiment to validate the changes of fatigue during the experiment, and the typical behavioral features extracted from the experiment video to explain the result of subjective questionnaire. Experimental results show that the System has a better user experience and learning performance, but slight visual fatigue exists after experiment.
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Krityakierne, Tipaluck; Akhtar, Taimoor; Shoemaker, Christine A.
This paper presents a parallel surrogate-based global optimization method for computationally expensive objective functions that is more effective for larger numbers of processors. To reach this goal, we integrated concepts from multi-objective optimization and tabu search into, single objective, surrogate optimization. Our proposed derivative-free algorithm, called SOP, uses non-dominated sorting of points for which the expensive function has been previously evaluated. The two objectives are the expensive function value of the point and the minimum distance of the point to previously evaluated points. Based on the results of non-dominated sorting, P points from the sorted fronts are selected as centersmore » from which many candidate points are generated by random perturbations. Based on surrogate approximation, the best candidate point is subsequently selected for expensive evaluation for each of the P centers, with simultaneous computation on P processors. Centers that previously did not generate good solutions are tabu with a given tenure. We show almost sure convergence of this algorithm under some conditions. The performance of SOP is compared with two RBF based methods. The test results show that SOP is an efficient method that can reduce time required to find a good near optimal solution. In a number of cases the efficiency of SOP is so good that SOP with 8 processors found an accurate answer in less wall-clock time than the other algorithms did with 32 processors.« less
Extracting Objects for Aerial Manipulation on UAVs Using Low Cost Stereo Sensors.
Ramon Soria, Pablo; Bevec, Robert; Arrue, Begoña C; Ude, Aleš; Ollero, Aníbal
2016-05-14
Giving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) the possibility to manipulate objects vastly extends the range of possible applications. This applies to rotary wing UAVs in particular, where their capability of hovering enables a suitable position for in-flight manipulation. Their manipulation skills must be suitable for primarily natural, partially known environments, where UAVs mostly operate. We have developed an on-board object extraction method that calculates information necessary for autonomous grasping of objects, without the need to provide the model of the object's shape. A local map of the work-zone is generated using depth information, where object candidates are extracted by detecting areas different to our floor model. Their image projections are then evaluated using support vector machine (SVM) classification to recognize specific objects or reject bad candidates. Our method builds a sparse cloud representation of each object and calculates the object's centroid and the dominant axis. This information is then passed to a grasping module. Our method works under the assumption that objects are static and not clustered, have visual features and the floor shape of the work-zone area is known. We used low cost cameras for creating depth information that cause noisy point clouds, but our method has proved robust enough to process this data and return accurate results.
Assessment methods for the evaluation of vitiligo.
Alghamdi, K M; Kumar, A; Taïeb, A; Ezzedine, K
2012-12-01
There is no standardized method for assessing vitiligo. In this article, we review the literature from 1981 to 2011 on different vitiligo assessment methods. We aim to classify the techniques available for vitiligo assessment as subjective, semi-objective or objective; microscopic or macroscopic; and as based on morphometry or colorimetry. Macroscopic morphological measurements include visual assessment, photography in natural or ultraviolet light, photography with computerized image analysis and tristimulus colorimetry or spectrophotometry. Non-invasive micromorphological methods include confocal laser microscopy (CLM). Subjective methods include clinical evaluation by a dermatologist and a vitiligo disease activity score. Semi-objective methods include the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI) and point-counting methods. Objective methods include software-based image analysis, tristimulus colorimetry, spectrophotometry and CLM. Morphometry is the measurement of the vitiliginous surface area, whereas colorimetry quantitatively analyses skin colour changes caused by erythema or pigment. Most methods involve morphometry, except for the chromameter method, which assesses colorimetry. Some image analysis software programs can assess both morphometry and colorimetry. The details of these programs (Corel Draw, Image Pro Plus, AutoCad and Photoshop) are discussed in the review. Reflectance confocal microscopy provides real-time images and has great potential for the non-invasive assessment of pigmentary lesions. In conclusion, there is no single best method for assessing vitiligo. This review revealed that VASI, the rule of nine and Wood's lamp are likely to be the best techniques available for assessing the degree of pigmentary lesions and measuring the extent and progression of vitiligo in the clinic and in clinical trials. © 2012 The Authors. Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology © 2012 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Wang, Zhanjun; Qiao, Weifeng; Li, Jiangbo
2016-01-01
Higher education monitoring evaluation is a process that uses modern information technology to continually collect and deeply analyze relevant data, visually present the state of higher education, and provide an objective basis for value judgments and scientific decision making by diverse bodies Higher education monitoring evaluation is…
Program Evaluation of Community College Learning Assistance Centers: What Do LAC Directors Think?
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Franklin, Doug; Blankenberger, Bob
2016-01-01
Objective: This study seeks to determine the nature of current program evaluation practices for learning assistance centers (LACs), the practices being used for program evaluation, and whether LAC directors believe their practices are appropriate for evaluating program effectiveness. Method: We conducted a survey (n = 61) of community college LAC…
Teaching Research and Practice Evaluation Skills to Graduate Social Work Students
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Wong, Stephen E.; Vakharia, Sheila P.
2012-01-01
Objective: The authors examined outcomes of a graduate course on evaluating social work practice that required students to use published research, quantitative measures, and single-system designs in a simulated practice evaluation project. Method: Practice evaluation projects from a typical class were analyzed for the number of research references…
A Novel Unsupervised Segmentation Quality Evaluation Method for Remote Sensing Images
Tang, Yunwei; Jing, Linhai; Ding, Haifeng
2017-01-01
The segmentation of a high spatial resolution remote sensing image is a critical step in geographic object-based image analysis (GEOBIA). Evaluating the performance of segmentation without ground truth data, i.e., unsupervised evaluation, is important for the comparison of segmentation algorithms and the automatic selection of optimal parameters. This unsupervised strategy currently faces several challenges in practice, such as difficulties in designing effective indicators and limitations of the spectral values in the feature representation. This study proposes a novel unsupervised evaluation method to quantitatively measure the quality of segmentation results to overcome these problems. In this method, multiple spectral and spatial features of images are first extracted simultaneously and then integrated into a feature set to improve the quality of the feature representation of ground objects. The indicators designed for spatial stratified heterogeneity and spatial autocorrelation are included to estimate the properties of the segments in this integrated feature set. These two indicators are then combined into a global assessment metric as the final quality score. The trade-offs of the combined indicators are accounted for using a strategy based on the Mahalanobis distance, which can be exhibited geometrically. The method is tested on two segmentation algorithms and three testing images. The proposed method is compared with two existing unsupervised methods and a supervised method to confirm its capabilities. Through comparison and visual analysis, the results verified the effectiveness of the proposed method and demonstrated the reliability and improvements of this method with respect to other methods. PMID:29064416
Water Quality Evaluation of the Yellow River Basin Based on Gray Clustering Method
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Fu, X. Q.; Zou, Z. H.
2018-03-01
Evaluating the water quality of 12 monitoring sections in the Yellow River Basin comprehensively by grey clustering method based on the water quality monitoring data from the Ministry of environmental protection of China in May 2016 and the environmental quality standard of surface water. The results can reflect the water quality of the Yellow River Basin objectively. Furthermore, the evaluation results are basically the same when compared with the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. The results also show that the overall water quality of the Yellow River Basin is good and coincident with the actual situation of the Yellow River basin. Overall, gray clustering method for water quality evaluation is reasonable and feasible and it is also convenient to calculate.
A Multi-level Fuzzy Evaluation Method for Smart Distribution Network Based on Entropy Weight
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Li, Jianfang; Song, Xiaohui; Gao, Fei; Zhang, Yu
2017-05-01
Smart distribution network is considered as the future trend of distribution network. In order to comprehensive evaluate smart distribution construction level and give guidance to the practice of smart distribution construction, a multi-level fuzzy evaluation method based on entropy weight is proposed. Firstly, focus on both the conventional characteristics of distribution network and new characteristics of smart distribution network such as self-healing and interaction, a multi-level evaluation index system which contains power supply capability, power quality, economy, reliability and interaction is established. Then, a combination weighting method based on Delphi method and entropy weight method is put forward, which take into account not only the importance of the evaluation index in the experts’ subjective view, but also the objective and different information from the index values. Thirdly, a multi-level evaluation method based on fuzzy theory is put forward. Lastly, an example is conducted based on the statistical data of some cites’ distribution network and the evaluation method is proved effective and rational.
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Abdel-Kareem, O.; Ghoneim, M.; Harith, M. A.
2011-09-22
Analysis of metal objects is a necessary step for establishing an appropriate conservation treatment of an object or to follow up the application's result of the suggested treatments. The main considerations on selecting a method that can be used in investigation and analysis of metal objects are based on the diagnostic power, representative sampling, reproducibility, destructive nature/invasiveness of analysis and accessibility to the appropriate instrument. This study aims at evaluating the usefulness of the use of Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Technique for analysis of historical metal objects. In this study various historical metal objects collected from different museums andmore » excavations in Egypt were investigated using (LIBS) technique. For evaluating usefulness of the suggested analytical protocol of this technique, the same investigated metal objects were investigated by other methods such as Scanning Electron Microscope with energy-dispersive x-ray analyzer (SEM-EDX) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). This study confirms that Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) Technique is considered very useful technique that can be used safely for investigating historical metal objects. LIBS analysis can quickly provide information on the qualitative and semi-quantitative elemental content of different metal objects and their characterization and classification. It is practically non-destructive technique with the critical advantage of being applicable in situ, thereby avoiding sampling and sample preparations. It is can be dependable, satisfactory and effective method for low cost study of archaeological and historical metals. But we have to take into consideration that the corrosion of metal leads to material alteration and possible loss of certain metals in the form of soluble salts. Certain corrosion products are known to leach out of the object and therefore, their low content does not necessarily reflect the composition of the metal at the time of the object manufacture. Another point should be taken into consideration that the heterogeneity of a metal alloy object that often result from poor mixing of the different metal alloy composition.There is a necessity to carry out further research to investigate and determine the most appropriate and effective approaches and methods for conservation of these metal objects.« less
Methods and apparatus for extraction and tracking of objects from multi-dimensional sequence data
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Hill, Matthew L. (Inventor); Chang, Yuan-Chi (Inventor); Li, Chung-Sheng (Inventor); Castelli, Vittorio (Inventor); Bergman, Lawrence David (Inventor)
2008-01-01
An object tracking technique is provided which, given: (i) a potentially large data set; (ii) a set of dimensions along which the data has been ordered; and (iii) a set of functions for measuring the similarity between data elements, a set of objects are produced. Each of these objects is defined by a list of data elements. Each of the data elements on this list contains the probability that the data element is part of the object. The method produces these lists via an adaptive, knowledge-based search function which directs the search for high-probability data elements. This serves to reduce the number of data element combinations evaluated while preserving the most flexibility in defining the associations of data elements which comprise an object.
Methods and apparatus for extraction and tracking of objects from multi-dimensional sequence data
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Hill, Matthew L. (Inventor); Chang, Yuan-Chi (Inventor); Li, Chung-Sheng (Inventor); Castelli, Vittorio (Inventor); Bergman, Lawrence David (Inventor)
2005-01-01
An object tracking technique is provided which, given: (i) a potentially large data set; (ii) a set of dimensions along which the data has been ordered; and (iii) a set of functions for measuring the similarity between data elements, a set of objects are produced. Each of these objects is defined by a list of data elements. Each of the data elements on this list contains the probability that the data element is part of the object. The method produces these lists via an adaptive, knowledge-based search function which directs the search for high-probability data elements. This serves to reduce the number of data element combinations evaluated while preserving the most flexibility in defining the associations of data elements which comprise an object.
Neves, Justin; Lavis, John N; Ranson, M Kent
2012-08-02
Large multi-day conferences have often been criticized as ineffective ways to improve social outcomes and to influence policy or practice. Unfortunately, many conference evaluations have also been inadequate in determining the impact of a conference on its associated social sector, with little evidence gathered or analyzed to substantiate or refute these criticisms. The aim of this scoping review is to investigate and report stakeholders' objectives for planning or participating in large multi-day conferences and how these objectives are being evaluated. We conducted a scoping review supplemented by a small number of key informant interviews. Eight bibliographic databases were systematically searched to identify papers describing conference objectives and/or evaluations. We developed a conference evaluation framework based on theoretical models and empirical findings, which structured the descriptive synthesis of the data. We identified 3,073 potential papers for review, of which 44 were included in this study. Our evaluation framework connects five key elements in planning a conference and its evaluation (number in brackets refers to number of themes identified): conference objectives (8), purpose of evaluation (7), evaluation methods (5), indicators of success (9) and theories/models (8). Further analysis of indicators of success identified three categories of indicators with differing scopes (i.e. immediate, prospective or follow-up) as well as empirical links between the purpose of evaluations and these indicators. Conference objectives and evaluations were largely correlated with the type of conference (i.e. academic, political/governmental or business) but diverse overall. While much can be done to improve the quality and usefulness of conference evaluations, there are innovative assessments that are currently being utilized by some conferences and warrant further investigation. This review provides conference evaluators and organizers a simple resource to improve their own assessments by highlighting and categorizing potential objectives and evaluation strategies.
2012-01-01
Large multi-day conferences have often been criticized as ineffective ways to improve social outcomes and to influence policy or practice. Unfortunately, many conference evaluations have also been inadequate in determining the impact of a conference on its associated social sector, with little evidence gathered or analyzed to substantiate or refute these criticisms. The aim of this scoping review is to investigate and report stakeholders’ objectives for planning or participating in large multi-day conferences and how these objectives are being evaluated. We conducted a scoping review supplemented by a small number of key informant interviews. Eight bibliographic databases were systematically searched to identify papers describing conference objectives and/or evaluations. We developed a conference evaluation framework based on theoretical models and empirical findings, which structured the descriptive synthesis of the data. We identified 3,073 potential papers for review, of which 44 were included in this study. Our evaluation framework connects five key elements in planning a conference and its evaluation (number in brackets refers to number of themes identified): conference objectives (8), purpose of evaluation (7), evaluation methods (5), indicators of success (9) and theories/models (8). Further analysis of indicators of success identified three categories of indicators with differing scopes (i.e. immediate, prospective or follow-up) as well as empirical links between the purpose of evaluations and these indicators. Conference objectives and evaluations were largely correlated with the type of conference (i.e. academic, political/governmental or business) but diverse overall. While much can be done to improve the quality and usefulness of conference evaluations, there are innovative assessments that are currently being utilized by some conferences and warrant further investigation. This review provides conference evaluators and organizers a simple resource to improve their own assessments by highlighting and categorizing potential objectives and evaluation strategies. PMID:22857399
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Liu, Ruihua; Wang, Rong; Liu, Qunying; Yang, Li; Xi, Chuan; Wang, Wei; Li, Lingzhou; Zhao, Zhoufang; Zhou, Ying
2018-02-01
With China’s new energy generation grid connected capacity being in the forefront of the world and the uncertainty of new energy sources, such as wind energy and solar energy, it is be of great significance to study scientific and comprehensive assessment of power quality. On the foundation of analysizing the current power quality index systematically and objectively, the new energy grid power quality analysis method and comprehensive evaluation method, this paper tentatively explored the trend of the new generation of energy system power quality comprehensive evaluation.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
New York State Education Dept., Albany. Bureau of Occupational and Career Curriculum Development.
Each of the 32 curriculum modules in this packet for ornamental horticulture instruction contains a brief description of the module content, a list of the major division or units, the overall objectives, objectives by units, content outline and suggested teaching methods, student application activities, and evaluation procedures. A listing of…
Computerized Analysis of Digital Photographs for Evaluation of Tooth Movement
Toodehzaeim, Mohammad Hossein; Karandish, Maryam; Karandish, Mohammad Nabi
2015-01-01
Objectives: Various methods have been introduced for evaluation of tooth movement in orthodontics. The challenge is to adopt the most accurate and most beneficial method for patients. This study was designed to introduce analysis of digital photographs with AutoCAD software as a method to evaluate tooth movement and assess the reliability of this method. Materials and Methods: Eighteen patients were evaluated in this study. Three intraoral digital images from the buccal view were captured from each patient in half an hour interval. All the photos were sent to AutoCAD software 2011, calibrated and the distance between canine and molar hooks were measured. The data was analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficient. Results: Photographs were found to have high reliability coefficient (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The introduced method is an accurate, efficient and reliable method for evaluation of tooth movement. PMID:26622272
Issues in evaluation: evaluating assessments of elderly people using a combination of methods.
McEwan, R T
1989-02-01
In evaluating a health service, individuals will give differing accounts of its performance, according to their experiences of the service, and the evaluative perspective they adopt. The value of a service may also change through time, and according to the particular part of the service studied. Traditional health care evaluations have generally not accounted for this variability because of the approaches used. Studies evaluating screening or assessment programmes for the elderly have focused on programme effectiveness and efficiency, using relatively inflexible quantitative methods. Evaluative approaches must reflect the complexity of health service provision, and methods must vary to suit the particular research objective. Under these circumstances, this paper presents the case for the use of multiple triangulation in evaluative research, where differing methods and perspectives are combined in one study. Emphasis is placed on the applications and benefits of subjectivist approaches in evaluation. An example of combined methods is provided in the form of an evaluation of the Newcastle Care Plan for the Elderly.
Development of delineator testing standard.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2015-02-01
The objective of this project was to develop a new test method for evaluating the impact performance : of delineators for given applications. The researchers focused on developing a test method that was : reproducible and attempted to reproduce failu...
Duman, Nilay; Duman, Reşat; Yavaş, Güliz Fatma; Doğruk Kaçar, Seval; Özuğuz, Pınar; Çetinkaya, Ersan
2017-03-01
Although topical prostaglandin analogs (PGAs) have been previously associated with periocular skin hyperpigmentation, studies using objective clinical methods are lacking. Furthermore changes in periocular skin erythema indexes associated with topical PGAs have not been reported previously. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate periocular melanin and erythema indexes in patients treated with topical PGA using an objective clinical method - Mexameter. About 45 glaucoma patients treated with topical PGA therapy, and 30 age-, and sex-matched controls were enrolled in the study. Demographic data, medical history including duration of therapy, PGA type, involved eye (unilateral, bilateral) were noted, and skin phototypes were evaluated. Melanin and erythema indexes on medial and lateral upper and lower eyelids, and normal skin from the upper cheeks were measured using Mexameter MX-18. The index of difference for lower/upper eyelid was calculated. Reading results of patients and controls were compared. Melanin and erythema indexes of upper/lower eyelids, and the index of differences for upper/lower eyelids were significantly higher in patients despite similar clinical findings (p < 0.05). Duration of therapy and type of PGA were not associated with skin changes (p > 0.05). Both periocular melanin and erythema indexes increased in both upper and lower eyelids due to PGA therapy compared to controls, despite similar clinical findings. Mexametric evaluation is more sensitive than clinical evaluation, and may be used as an objective, sensitive clinical method to evaluate periocular skin changes, even smallest changes, in such patients.
Active Prior Tactile Knowledge Transfer for Learning Tactual Properties of New Objects
Feng, Di
2018-01-01
Reusing the tactile knowledge of some previously-explored objects (prior objects) helps us to easily recognize the tactual properties of new objects. In this paper, we enable a robotic arm equipped with multi-modal artificial skin, like humans, to actively transfer the prior tactile exploratory action experiences when it learns the detailed physical properties of new objects. These experiences, or prior tactile knowledge, are built by the feature observations that the robot perceives from multiple sensory modalities, when it applies the pressing, sliding, and static contact movements on objects with different action parameters. We call our method Active Prior Tactile Knowledge Transfer (APTKT), and systematically evaluated its performance by several experiments. Results show that the robot improved the discrimination accuracy by around 10% when it used only one training sample with the feature observations of prior objects. By further incorporating the predictions from the observation models of prior objects as auxiliary features, our method improved the discrimination accuracy by over 20%. The results also show that the proposed method is robust against transferring irrelevant prior tactile knowledge (negative knowledge transfer). PMID:29466300
Support for Alzheimer's Caregivers: Psychometric Evaluation of Familial and Friend Support Measures
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Wilks, Scott E.
2009-01-01
Objective: Information on the shortened, 20-item version of the Perceived Social Support Scale (S-PSSS) is scarce. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the psychometric properties of the S-PSSS Family (SSfa) and Friends (SSfr) subscales. Method: Because of their common coping method of social support, a cross-sectional sample of Alzheimer's…
The Evaluation of the Studies Related to the New Curriculum of Physics Course: The Case of Turkey
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Ergin, Ismet
2013-01-01
The aim of this study is to state the points when choosing a method in studies concerning physics course new curriculum by evaluating researches whose topics are secondary physics course curriculum (in Turkey) in terms of subject, objective, method and consequences. 24 researches conducted within the lines of secondary physics course curriculum…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Golovachyova, Viktoriya N.; Menlibekova, Gulbakhyt Zh.; Abayeva, Nella F.; Ten, Tatyana L.; Kogaya, Galina D.
2016-01-01
Using computer-based monitoring systems that rely on tests could be the most effective way of knowledge evaluation. The problem of objective knowledge assessment by means of testing takes on a new dimension in the context of new paradigms in education. The analysis of the existing test methods enabled us to conclude that tests with selected…
Geoengineering as a design problem
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Kravitz, Ben; MacMartin, Douglas G.; Wang, Hailong
2016-01-01
Understanding the climate impacts of solar geoengineering is essential for evaluating its benefits and risks. Most previous simulations have prescribed a particular strategy and evaluated its modeled effects. Here we turn this approach around by first choosing example climate objectives and then designing a strategy to meet those objectives in climate models. There are four essential criteria for designing a strategy: (i) an explicit specification of the objectives, (ii) defining what climate forcing agents to modify so the objectives are met, (iii) a method for managing uncertainties, and (iv) independent verification of the strategy in an evaluation model. We demonstrate this design perspective throughmore » two multi-objective examples. First, changes in Arctic temperature and the position of tropical precipitation due to CO 2 increases are offset by adjusting high-latitude insolation in each hemisphere independently. Second, three different latitude-dependent patterns of insolation are modified to offset CO 2-induced changes in global mean temperature, interhemispheric temperature asymmetry, and the Equator-to-pole temperature gradient. In both examples, the "design" and "evaluation" models are state-of-the-art fully coupled atmosphere–ocean general circulation models.« less
Laser interference effect evaluation method based on character of laser-spot and image feature
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tang, Jianfeng; Luo, Xiaolin; Wu, Lingxia
2016-10-01
Evaluating the laser interference effect to CCD objectively and accurately has great research value. Starting from the change of the image's feature before and after interference, meanwhile, considering the influence of the laser-spot distribution character on the masking degree of the image feature information, a laser interference effect evaluation method based on character of laser-spot and image feature was proposed. It reflected the laser-spot distribution character using the distance between the center of the laser-spot and center of the target. It reflected the change of the global image feature using the changes of image's sparse coefficient matrix, which was obtained by the SSIM-inspired orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) sparse coding algorithm. What's more, the assessment method reflected the change of the local image feature using the changes of the image's edge sharpness, which could be obtained by the change of the image's gradient magnitude. Taken together, the laser interference effect can be evaluated accurately. In terms of the laser interference experiment results, the proposed method shows good rationality and feasibility under the disturbing condition of different laser powers, and it can also overcome the inaccuracy caused by the change of the laser-spot position, realizing the evaluation of the laser interference effect objectively and accurately.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2010-03-01
Objectives: Evaluate the usefulness of the dynamic modulus and flow number tests in moisture-susceptibility evaluation, Compare the results to those achieved using the AASHTO T 283 test, Study the effect of different methods of sample conditioning an...
Final Evaluation for the Neighborhood Educational Cultural Centerette.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Frost, Patricia
Contained in this report is the final evaluation for the Neighborhood Educational Cultural Centerette Project. Objectives of the research project were to: (1) investigate, experiment with, create, and evaluate methods of instruction curriculum, and materials; analyze pupil learning styles and teacher-teaching styles; and to provide staff growth…
An Approach to Integrating Interprofessional Education in Collaborative Mental Health Care
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Curran, Vernon; Heath, Olga; Adey, Tanis; Callahan, Terrance; Craig, David; Hearn, Taryn; White, Hubert; Hollett, Ann
2012-01-01
Objective: This article describes an evaluation of a curriculum approach to integrating interprofessional education (IPE) in collaborative mental health practice across the pre- to post-licensure continuum of medical education. Methods: A systematic evaluation of IPE activities was conducted, utilizing a combination of evaluation study designs,…
A Technical Evaluation of the First Stage of the Mediterranean Regional Project.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Hollister, Robinson
Objectives of this technical evaluation concerning the transfer of experience in the development of human resources were to develop educational plans based upon comprehensive estimates of manpower requirements and to evaluate the methods used in estimating manpower requirements for educational planning. The methodology involved estimates of the…
Food and Drug Administration Evaluation and Cigarette Smoking Risk Perceptions
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Kaufman, Annette R.; Waters, Erika A.; Parascandola, Mark; Augustson, Erik M.; Bansal-Travers, Maansi; Hyland, Andrew; Cummings, K. Michael
2011-01-01
Objectives: To examine the relationship between a belief about Food and Drug Administration (FDA) safety evaluation of cigarettes and smoking risk perceptions. Methods: A nationally representative, random-digit-dialed telephone survey of 1046 adult current cigarette smokers. Results: Smokers reporting that the FDA does not evaluate cigarettes for…
Teledynamic Evaluation of Oropharyngeal Swallowing
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Malandraki, Georgia A.; McCullough, Gary; He, Xuming; McWeeny, Elizabeth; Perlman, Adrienne L.
2011-01-01
Purpose: The objective of the present investigation was to test the feasibility and clinical utility of a real-time Internet-based protocol for remote, telefluoroscopic evaluation of oropharyngeal swallowing. Method: In this prospective cohort study, the authors evaluated 32 patients with a primary diagnosis of stroke or head/neck cancer. All…
Flexible methods for segmentation evaluation: Results from CT-based luggage screening
Karimi, Seemeen; Jiang, Xiaoqian; Cosman, Pamela; Martz, Harry
2017-01-01
BACKGROUND Imaging systems used in aviation security include segmentation algorithms in an automatic threat recognition pipeline. The segmentation algorithms evolve in response to emerging threats and changing performance requirements. Analysis of segmentation algorithms’ behavior, including the nature of errors and feature recovery, facilitates their development. However, evaluation methods from the literature provide limited characterization of the segmentation algorithms. OBJECTIVE To develop segmentation evaluation methods that measure systematic errors such as oversegmentation and undersegmentation, outliers, and overall errors. The methods must measure feature recovery and allow us to prioritize segments. METHODS We developed two complementary evaluation methods using statistical techniques and information theory. We also created a semi-automatic method to define ground truth from 3D images. We applied our methods to evaluate five segmentation algorithms developed for CT luggage screening. We validated our methods with synthetic problems and an observer evaluation. RESULTS Both methods selected the same best segmentation algorithm. Human evaluation confirmed the findings. The measurement of systematic errors and prioritization helped in understanding the behavior of each segmentation algorithm. CONCLUSIONS Our evaluation methods allow us to measure and explain the accuracy of segmentation algorithms. PMID:24699346
METHODS FOR EVALUATING THE SUSTAINABILITY OF GREEN PROCESSES
A methodology, called GREENSCOPE (Gauging Reaction Effectiveness for the ENvironmental Sustainability of Chemistries with a multi-Objective Process Evaluator), has been developed in the U.S. EPA's Office of Research and Development to directly compare the sustainability of proces...
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
Objectives: Objectives of this study were to 1) evaluate growth performance and carcass characteristics, and 2) determine environmental and economic impacts of cattle raised with different levels of growth promoting technology. Materials and Methods: Angus' Simmental,and crossbred steer calves (n =...
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
Hydrologic models are essential tools for environmental assessment of agricultural non-point source pollution. The automatic calibration of hydrologic models, though efficient, demands significant computational power, which can limit its application. The study objective was to investigate a cost e...
Applications of AN OO Methodology and Case to a Daq System
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bee, C. P.; Eshghi, S.; Jones, R.; Kolos, S.; Magherini, C.; Maidantchik, C.; Mapelli, L.; Mornacchi, G.; Niculescu, M.; Patel, A.; Prigent, D.; Spiwoks, R.; Soloviev, I.; Caprini, M.; Duval, P. Y.; Etienne, F.; Ferrato, D.; Le van Suu, A.; Qian, Z.; Gaponenko, I.; Merzliakov, Y.; Ambrosini, G.; Ferrari, R.; Fumagalli, G.; Polesello, G.
The RD13 project has evaluated the use of the Object Oriented Information Engineering (OOIE) method during the development of several software components connected to the DAQ system. The method is supported by a sophisticated commercial CASE tool (Object Management Workbench) and programming environment (Kappa) which covers the full life-cycle of the software including model simulation, code generation and application deployment. This paper gives an overview of the method, CASE tool, DAQ components which have been developed and we relate our experiences with the method and tool, its integration into our development environment and the spiral lifecycle it supports.
Evaluation of Service and Methods Demonstration Projects : Philosophy and Approach
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
1976-05-01
The Urban Mass Transportation Administration's Service and Methods Demonstration (SMD) Program has the objective of improving existing transit operations by sponsoring the development and implementation of new techniques and services on a nation-wide...
Numerical Approximation of Elasticity Tensor Associated With Green-Naghdi Rate.
Liu, Haofei; Sun, Wei
2017-08-01
Objective stress rates are often used in commercial finite element (FE) programs. However, deriving a consistent tangent modulus tensor (also known as elasticity tensor or material Jacobian) associated with the objective stress rates is challenging when complex material models are utilized. In this paper, an approximation method for the tangent modulus tensor associated with the Green-Naghdi rate of the Kirchhoff stress is employed to simplify the evaluation process. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated through the implementation of two user-defined fiber-reinforced hyperelastic material models. Comparisons between the approximation method and the closed-form analytical method demonstrate that the former can simplify the material Jacobian evaluation with satisfactory accuracy while retaining its computational efficiency. Moreover, since the approximation method is independent of material models, it can facilitate the implementation of complex material models in FE analysis using shell/membrane elements in abaqus.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Mothe, Jean-Claude
1981-01-01
Discusses the various aspects of tests based on the concepts of communicative competence and formative evaluation where the objective of the evaluation is to verify whether the learner is capable of using the language in actual communication. Takes most of the examples discussed from the text "Methode Orange 2." (MES)
Utility of Follow-Up Skeletal Surveys in Suspected Child Physical Abuse Evaluations
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Zimmerman, Stephanie; Makoroff, Kathi; Care, Marguerite; Thomas, Amy; Shapiro, Robert
2005-01-01
Objective: To evaluate the utility of a follow-up skeletal survey in suspected child physical abuse evaluations. Methods: In this prospective study, follow-up skeletal surveys were recommended for 74 children who, after an initial skeletal survey and evaluation by the Child Abuse Team, were suspected victims of physical abuse. The number and…
Toward a Web Based Environment for Evaluation and Design of Pedagogical Hypermedia
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Trigano, Philippe C.; Pacurar-Giacomini, Ecaterina
2004-01-01
We are working on a method, called CEPIAH. We propose a web based system used to help teachers to design multimedia documents and to evaluate their prototypes. Our current research objectives are to create a methodology to sustain the educational hypermedia design and evaluation. A module is used to evaluate multimedia software applied in…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Page, Ellis B.
One of a series of research reports examining objective principles successfully used in other fields which can lend integrity and legitimacy to evaluation, this report presents an overview of operations research (OR) as a potential source of evaluation methodology. The nature of the methods common to this discipline are summarized and the…
Success in the TACP Training Program An Objective Method for Selecting Battlefield Airmen
2009-12-23
rationale and evaluation of the physical training doctrine. J Strength Cond Res. 2009 Jul;23(4):1353-62. Interventions used to improve retention...week training programs on military physical performance. J Strength Cond Res. 2008 Mar;22(2):524-34. Muza SR. Military applications of hypoxic...1 Success in the TACP Training Program An Objective Method for Selecting Battlefield Airmen FINAL REPORT December 23, 2009
System and algorithm for evaluation of human auditory analyzer state
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Bachynskiy, Mykhaylo V.; Azarkhov, Oleksandr Yu.; Shtofel, Dmytro Kh.; Horbatiuk, Svitlana M.; Ławicki, Tomasz; Kalizhanova, Aliya; Smailova, Saule; Askarova, Nursanat
2017-08-01
The paper discusses questions of human auditory state evaluation with technical means. It considers the disadvantages of existing clinical audiometry methods and systems. It is proposed to use method for evaluating of auditory analyzer state by means of pulsometry to get the medical study more objective and efficient. It provides for use of two optoelectronic sensors located on the carotid artery and ear lobe, Using this method the biotechnical system for evaluation and stimulation of human auditory analyzer stare wad developed. Its hardware and software were substantiated. Different modes of simulation in the designed system were tested and the influence of the procedure on a patient was studied.
Rueda, Sylvia; Fathima, Sana; Knight, Caroline L; Yaqub, Mohammad; Papageorghiou, Aris T; Rahmatullah, Bahbibi; Foi, Alessandro; Maggioni, Matteo; Pepe, Antonietta; Tohka, Jussi; Stebbing, Richard V; McManigle, John E; Ciurte, Anca; Bresson, Xavier; Cuadra, Meritxell Bach; Sun, Changming; Ponomarev, Gennady V; Gelfand, Mikhail S; Kazanov, Marat D; Wang, Ching-Wei; Chen, Hsiang-Chou; Peng, Chun-Wei; Hung, Chu-Mei; Noble, J Alison
2014-04-01
This paper presents the evaluation results of the methods submitted to Challenge US: Biometric Measurements from Fetal Ultrasound Images, a segmentation challenge held at the IEEE International Symposium on Biomedical Imaging 2012. The challenge was set to compare and evaluate current fetal ultrasound image segmentation methods. It consisted of automatically segmenting fetal anatomical structures to measure standard obstetric biometric parameters, from 2D fetal ultrasound images taken on fetuses at different gestational ages (21 weeks, 28 weeks, and 33 weeks) and with varying image quality to reflect data encountered in real clinical environments. Four independent sub-challenges were proposed, according to the objects of interest measured in clinical practice: abdomen, head, femur, and whole fetus. Five teams participated in the head sub-challenge and two teams in the femur sub-challenge, including one team who tackled both. Nobody attempted the abdomen and whole fetus sub-challenges. The challenge goals were two-fold and the participants were asked to submit the segmentation results as well as the measurements derived from the segmented objects. Extensive quantitative (region-based, distance-based, and Bland-Altman measurements) and qualitative evaluation was performed to compare the results from a representative selection of current methods submitted to the challenge. Several experts (three for the head sub-challenge and two for the femur sub-challenge), with different degrees of expertise, manually delineated the objects of interest to define the ground truth used within the evaluation framework. For the head sub-challenge, several groups produced results that could be potentially used in clinical settings, with comparable performance to manual delineations. The femur sub-challenge had inferior performance to the head sub-challenge due to the fact that it is a harder segmentation problem and that the techniques presented relied more on the femur's appearance.
The research on the mean shift algorithm for target tracking
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
CAO, Honghong
2017-06-01
The traditional mean shift algorithm for target tracking is effective and high real-time, but there still are some shortcomings. The traditional mean shift algorithm is easy to fall into local optimum in the tracking process, the effectiveness of the method is weak when the object is moving fast. And the size of the tracking window never changes, the method will fail when the size of the moving object changes, as a result, we come up with a new method. We use particle swarm optimization algorithm to optimize the mean shift algorithm for target tracking, Meanwhile, SIFT (scale-invariant feature transform) and affine transformation make the size of tracking window adaptive. At last, we evaluate the method by comparing experiments. Experimental result indicates that the proposed method can effectively track the object and the size of the tracking window changes.
[Assessment of an Evaluation System for Psychiatry Learning].
Campo-Cabal, Gerardo
2012-01-01
Through the analysis of a teaching evaluation system for a Psychiatry course aimed at Medicine students, the author reviews the basic elements taken into account in a teaching assessment process. Analysis was carried out of the assessment methods used as well as of the grades obtained by the students from four groups into which the they were divided. The selected assessment methods are appropriate to evaluate educational objectives; the contents are selected by means of a specification matrix; there is a high correlation coefficient between the grades obtained in previous academic periods and the ones obtained in the course, thus demonstrating the validity of the results (both considering the whole exam or just a part of it). Most of the students are on the right side of the grading curve, which means that the majority of them acquire the knowledge expected. The assessment system used in the Psychopathology course is fair, valid and reliable, specifically concerning the objective methods used, but the conceptual evaluation should be improved or, preferably, eliminated as a constituernt part of the evaluation system. Copyright © 2012 Asociación Colombiana de Psiquiatría. Publicado por Elsevier España. All rights reserved.
Rao, Jinmeng; Qiao, Yanjun; Ren, Fu; Wang, Junxing; Du, Qingyun
2017-01-01
The purpose of this study was to develop a robust, fast and markerless mobile augmented reality method for registration, geovisualization and interaction in uncontrolled outdoor environments. We propose a lightweight deep-learning-based object detection approach for mobile or embedded devices; the vision-based detection results of this approach are combined with spatial relationships by means of the host device’s built-in Global Positioning System receiver, Inertial Measurement Unit and magnetometer. Virtual objects generated based on geospatial information are precisely registered in the real world, and an interaction method based on touch gestures is implemented. The entire method is independent of the network to ensure robustness to poor signal conditions. A prototype system was developed and tested on the Wuhan University campus to evaluate the method and validate its results. The findings demonstrate that our method achieves a high detection accuracy, stable geovisualization results and interaction. PMID:28837096
Rao, Jinmeng; Qiao, Yanjun; Ren, Fu; Wang, Junxing; Du, Qingyun
2017-08-24
The purpose of this study was to develop a robust, fast and markerless mobile augmented reality method for registration, geovisualization and interaction in uncontrolled outdoor environments. We propose a lightweight deep-learning-based object detection approach for mobile or embedded devices; the vision-based detection results of this approach are combined with spatial relationships by means of the host device's built-in Global Positioning System receiver, Inertial Measurement Unit and magnetometer. Virtual objects generated based on geospatial information are precisely registered in the real world, and an interaction method based on touch gestures is implemented. The entire method is independent of the network to ensure robustness to poor signal conditions. A prototype system was developed and tested on the Wuhan University campus to evaluate the method and validate its results. The findings demonstrate that our method achieves a high detection accuracy, stable geovisualization results and interaction.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
1980-06-01
Volume 5 evaluates empirical methods in tunneling. Empirical methods that avoid the use of an explicit model by relating ground conditions to observed prototype behavior have played a major role in tunnel design. The main objective of this volume is ...
Study on cognitive impairment in diabetic rats by different behavioral experiments
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yu-bin, Ji; Zeng-yi, Li; Guo-song, Xin; Chi, Wei; Hong-jian, Zhu
2017-12-01
Object recognition test and Y maze test are widely used in learning and memory behavior evaluation techniques and methods. It was found that in the new object recognition experiment, the diabetic rats did more slowly than the normal rats in the discrimination of the old and new objects, and the learning and memory of the rats in the diabetic rats were injured. And the ratio of retention time and the number of errors in the Y maze test was much higher than that in the blank control group. These two methods can reflect the cognitive impairment in diabetic rats.
2018-01-01
Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) is one of the main methods of reducing NOX emissions and has been widely used in marine diesel engines. This paper proposes an optimized comprehensive assessment method based on multi-objective grey situation decision theory, grey relation theory and grey entropy analysis to evaluate the performance and optimize rate determination of EGR, which currently lack clear theoretical guidance. First, multi-objective grey situation decision theory is used to establish the initial decision-making model according to the main EGR parameters. The optimal compromise between diesel engine combustion and emission performance is transformed into a decision-making target weight problem. After establishing the initial model and considering the characteristics of EGR under different conditions, an optimized target weight algorithm based on grey relation theory and grey entropy analysis is applied to generate the comprehensive evaluation and decision-making model. Finally, the proposed method is successfully applied to a TBD234V12 turbocharged diesel engine, and the results clearly illustrate the feasibility of the proposed method for providing theoretical support and a reference for further EGR optimization. PMID:29377956
Zu, Xianghuan; Yang, Chuanlei; Wang, Hechun; Wang, Yinyan
2018-01-01
Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) is one of the main methods of reducing NOX emissions and has been widely used in marine diesel engines. This paper proposes an optimized comprehensive assessment method based on multi-objective grey situation decision theory, grey relation theory and grey entropy analysis to evaluate the performance and optimize rate determination of EGR, which currently lack clear theoretical guidance. First, multi-objective grey situation decision theory is used to establish the initial decision-making model according to the main EGR parameters. The optimal compromise between diesel engine combustion and emission performance is transformed into a decision-making target weight problem. After establishing the initial model and considering the characteristics of EGR under different conditions, an optimized target weight algorithm based on grey relation theory and grey entropy analysis is applied to generate the comprehensive evaluation and decision-making model. Finally, the proposed method is successfully applied to a TBD234V12 turbocharged diesel engine, and the results clearly illustrate the feasibility of the proposed method for providing theoretical support and a reference for further EGR optimization.
Study on evaluation methods for Rayleigh wave dispersion characteristic
Shi, L.; Tao, X.; Kayen, R.; Shi, H.; Yan, S.
2005-01-01
The evaluation of Rayleigh wave dispersion characteristic is the key step for detecting S-wave velocity structure. By comparing the dispersion curves directly with the spectra analysis of surface waves (SASW) method, rather than comparing the S-wave velocity structure, the validity and precision of microtremor-array method (MAM) can be evaluated more objectively. The results from the China - US joint surface wave investigation in 26 sites in Tangshan, China, show that the MAM has the same precision with SASW method in 83% of the 26 sites. The MAM is valid for Rayleigh wave dispersion characteristic testing and has great application potentiality for site S-wave velocity structure detection.
Evaluation of a modified method to measure total starch in animal feeds
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
The AOAC method 996.11 has been recognized as an accurate, repeatable, and efficient method to measure total starch in animal feeds. However, analyzing starch using the AOAC method can be expensive and associated with technical challenges. The objective of this study was to determine if an alternati...
Accelerated iterative beam angle selection in IMRT
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Bangert, Mark, E-mail: m.bangert@dkfz.de; Unkelbach, Jan
2016-03-15
Purpose: Iterative methods for beam angle selection (BAS) for intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) planning sequentially construct a beneficial ensemble of beam directions. In a naïve implementation, the nth beam is selected by adding beam orientations one-by-one from a discrete set of candidates to an existing ensemble of (n − 1) beams. The best beam orientation is identified in a time consuming process by solving the fluence map optimization (FMO) problem for every candidate beam and selecting the beam that yields the largest improvement to the objective function value. This paper evaluates two alternative methods to accelerate iterative BAS based onmore » surrogates for the FMO objective function value. Methods: We suggest to select candidate beams not based on the FMO objective function value after convergence but (1) based on the objective function value after five FMO iterations of a gradient based algorithm and (2) based on a projected gradient of the FMO problem in the first iteration. The performance of the objective function surrogates is evaluated based on the resulting objective function values and dose statistics in a treatment planning study comprising three intracranial, three pancreas, and three prostate cases. Furthermore, iterative BAS is evaluated for an application in which a small number of noncoplanar beams complement a set of coplanar beam orientations. This scenario is of practical interest as noncoplanar setups may require additional attention of the treatment personnel for every couch rotation. Results: Iterative BAS relying on objective function surrogates yields similar results compared to naïve BAS with regard to the objective function values and dose statistics. At the same time, early stopping of the FMO and using the projected gradient during the first iteration enable reductions in computation time by approximately one to two orders of magnitude. With regard to the clinical delivery of noncoplanar IMRT treatments, we could show that optimized beam ensembles using only a few noncoplanar beam orientations often approach the plan quality of fully noncoplanar ensembles. Conclusions: We conclude that iterative BAS in combination with objective function surrogates can be a viable option to implement automated BAS at clinically acceptable computation times.« less
Probabilistic structural analysis by extremum methods
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Nafday, Avinash M.
1990-01-01
The objective is to demonstrate discrete extremum methods of structural analysis as a tool for structural system reliability evaluation. Specifically, linear and multiobjective linear programming models for analysis of rigid plastic frames under proportional and multiparametric loadings, respectively, are considered. Kinematic and static approaches for analysis form a primal-dual pair in each of these models and have a polyhedral format. Duality relations link extreme points and hyperplanes of these polyhedra and lead naturally to dual methods for system reliability evaluation.
Khameneh, Bahman; Halimi, Vahid; Jaafari, Mahmoud Reza; Golmohammadzadeh, Shiva
2015-01-01
Objective(s): In the current study, sunscreen and moisturizing properties of solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN)-safranal formulations were evaluated. Materials and Methods: Series of SLN were prepared using glyceryl monostearate, Tween 80 and different amounts of safranal by high shear homogenization, and ultrasound and high-pressure homogenization (HPH) methods. SLN formulations were characterized for size, zeta potential, morphology, thermal properties, and encapsulation efficacy. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of the products was determined in vitro using transpore tape. The moisturizing activity of the products was also evaluated by corneometer. Results: The SPF of SLN-safranal formulations was increased when the amount of safranal increased. Mean particle size for all formulas was approximately 106 nm by probe sonication and 233 nm using HPH method. The encapsulation efficiency of safranal was around 70% for all SLN-safranal formulations. Conclusion: The results conclude that SLN-safranal formulations were found to be effective for topical delivery of safranal and succeeded in providing appropriate sunscreen properties. PMID:25810877
Sheikhbardsiri, Hojjat; Yarmohammadian, Mohammad H; Khankeh, Hamid Reza; Nekoei-Moghadam, Mahmoud; Raeisi, Ahmad Reza
2018-01-01
OBJECTIVE: Exercise evaluation is one of the most important steps and sometimes neglected in designing and taking exercises, in this stage of exercise, it systematically identifying, gathering, and interpreting related information to indicate how an exercise has fulfilled its objectives. The present study aimed to assess the most important evaluation techniques applied in evaluating health exercises for emergencies and disasters. METHODS: This was meta-evaluation study through a systematic review. In this research, we searched papers based on specific and relevant keywords in research databases including ISI web of science, PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, Ovid, ProQuest, Wiley, Google Scholar, and Persian database such as ISC and SID. The search keywords and strategies are followed; “simulation,” “practice,” “drill,” “exercise,” “instrument,” “tool,” “questionnaire,” “ measurement,” “checklist,” “scale,” “test,” “inventory,” “battery,” “evaluation,” “assessment,” “appraisal,” “emergency,” “disaster,” “cricise,” “hazard,” “catastrophe,: “hospital”, “prehospital,” “health centers,” “treatment centers,” were used in combination with Boolean operators OR and AND. RESULTS: The research findings indicate that there are different techniques and methods for data collection to evaluate performance exercises of health centers and affiliated organizations in disasters and emergencies including debriefing inventories, self-report, questionnaire, interview, observation, shooting video, and photographing, electronic equipment which can be individually or collectively used depending on exercise objectives or purposes. CONCLUSION: Taking exercise in the health sector is one of the important steps in preparation and implementation of disaster risk management programs. This study can be thus utilized to improve preparedness of different sectors of health system according to the latest available evaluation techniques and methods for better implementation of disaster exercise evaluation stages. PMID:29417075
WisDOT asphaltic mixture new specifications implementation : field compaction and density.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2016-06-01
The main research objectives of this study were to evaluate HMA Longitudinal Joint type, method and compaction data to produce specification recommendations that will ensure the highest density longitudinal joint, as well as evaluate and produce a sp...
Modules in Agricultural Education for Forestry.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
New York State Education Dept., Albany. Bureau of Occupational and Career Curriculum Development.
Each of the seven curriculum modules in this packet for forestry instruction contains a brief description of the module content, a list of the major divisions or units, the overall objectives, objectives by unit, content outline and suggested teaching methods, student application activities, and evaluation procedures. Module titles are Forest Fire…
West Bloomfield Schools Social Studies Curriculum K-12.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Morse, James E.; And Others
The curriculum guide outlines behavioral objectives, learning activities, evaluation methods, and resources to help K-12 classroom teachers develop and implement social studies programs. Major objectives are to extend knowledge, develop skills to make effective use of this knowledge, and to facilitate the socialization process. The first section…
Modules in Agricultural Education for Agricultural Resources.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
New York State Education Dept., Albany. Bureau of Occupational and Career Curriculum Development.
Each of the 31 curriculum modules in this packet for agricultural resources instruction contains a brief description of the module content, a list of the major division or units, the overall objective, objectives by units, content outline and suggested teaching methods, student application activities, and evaluation procedures. A list of resource…
Comparative Methods of Program Planning.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Palinchak, Robert S.
All planning techniques and models concern themselves with four basic tasks: (1) the determination of the objectives or purpose of the activity, (2) the development of programs likely to attain the objectives, (3) the organization of experiences into a coherent, meaningful unit, and (4) the evaluation of the extent to which programs meet the…
Modules in Agricultural Education for Agricultural Mechanics.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
New York State Education Dept., Albany. Bureau of Occupational and Career Curriculum Development.
Each of the 38 curriculum modules in this packet for agricultural mechanics instruction contains a brief description of the module content, a list of the major divisions or units, the overall objectives, objectives by unit, content outline and suggested teaching methods, student application activities, and evaluation procedures. A listing of…
The OSCE Has Landed: One Small Step for British Psychiatry?
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Sauer, Justin; Hodges, Brian; Santhouse, Alastair; Blackwood, Nigel
2005-01-01
Objective: In the United Kingdom (UK), an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) has replaced the individual patient assessment (IPA) for part 1 of the membership examination of the Royal College of Psychiatrists (MRCPsych). The authors' assessment of the OSCE was conducted. Method: Residents completed and evaluated an OSCE designed…
Waist Circumference and Objectively Measured Sedentary Behavior in Rural School Adolescents
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Machado-Rodrigues, Aristides M.; Coelho e Silva, Manuel J.; Ribeiro, Luís P.; Fernandes, Romulo; Mota, Jorge; Malina, Robert M.
2016-01-01
Background: Research on relationships between lifestyle behaviors and adiposity in school youth is potentially important for identifying subgroups at risk. This study evaluates the associations between waist circumference (WC) and objective measures of sedentary behavior (SB) in a sample of rural school adolescents. Methods: The sample included…
A quantitative method for evaluating alternatives. [aid to decision making
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Forthofer, M. J.
1981-01-01
When faced with choosing between alternatives, people tend to use a number of criteria (often subjective, rather than objective) to decide which is the best alternative for them given their unique situation. The subjectivity inherent in the decision-making process can be reduced by the definition and use of a quantitative method for evaluating alternatives. This type of method can help decision makers achieve degree of uniformity and completeness in the evaluation process, as well as an increased sensitivity to the factors involved. Additional side-effects are better documentation and visibility of the rationale behind the resulting decisions. General guidelines for defining a quantitative method are presented and a particular method (called 'hierarchical weighted average') is defined and applied to the evaluation of design alternatives for a hypothetical computer system capability.
Extracting Objects for Aerial Manipulation on UAVs Using Low Cost Stereo Sensors
Ramon Soria, Pablo; Bevec, Robert; Arrue, Begoña C.; Ude, Aleš; Ollero, Aníbal
2016-01-01
Giving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) the possibility to manipulate objects vastly extends the range of possible applications. This applies to rotary wing UAVs in particular, where their capability of hovering enables a suitable position for in-flight manipulation. Their manipulation skills must be suitable for primarily natural, partially known environments, where UAVs mostly operate. We have developed an on-board object extraction method that calculates information necessary for autonomous grasping of objects, without the need to provide the model of the object’s shape. A local map of the work-zone is generated using depth information, where object candidates are extracted by detecting areas different to our floor model. Their image projections are then evaluated using support vector machine (SVM) classification to recognize specific objects or reject bad candidates. Our method builds a sparse cloud representation of each object and calculates the object’s centroid and the dominant axis. This information is then passed to a grasping module. Our method works under the assumption that objects are static and not clustered, have visual features and the floor shape of the work-zone area is known. We used low cost cameras for creating depth information that cause noisy point clouds, but our method has proved robust enough to process this data and return accurate results. PMID:27187413
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
Our objective was to evaluate the Kids Café Program (KCP) nutrition education intervention and assess its impact on children's diet quality and body mass index (BMI) percentile. An experimental design consisting of pretest-posttest comparison groups using mixed methods was used to evaluate the 6-ses...
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Wyker, Brett A.; Jordan, Patricia; Quigley, Danielle L.
2012-01-01
Objective: Application of the Transtheoretical Model (TTM) to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) evaluation and development and validation of an evaluation tool used to measure TTM constructs is described. Methods: Surveys were collected from parents of children receiving food at Summer Food Service Program sites prior…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Heffernan, Bernadette M.
1998-01-01
Describes work done to provide staff of the Sandy Point Discovery Center with methods for evaluating exhibits and interpretive programming. Quantitative and qualitative evaluation measures were designed to assess the program's objective of estuary education. Pretest-posttest questionnaires and interviews are used to measure subjects' knowledge and…
International Dimensions in American Education: Evaluative Criteria for Precollegiate Programs.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Slouka, Z. J.; Slouka, O.
The purposes of the project described in this document are to identify and evaluate factors which encourage a global perspective in students in grades K-12. The document is presented in three major sections. Section one introduces the scope of the study, discusses objectives, and describes evaluation methods, including reviewing written materials,…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Freedman, Marjorie R.
2010-01-01
Objective: To develop, evaluate, and validate 2 nutrition environment assessment tools (surveys), for specific use in combating overweight on college/university campuses. Participants and Methods: Invitations to complete surveys were e-mailed to food service and health center directors at 47 universities, Winter 2008. Overall response rate was…
"Evaluation as Illumination: A New Approach to the Study of Innovatory Programs". Occasional Paper.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Parlett, Malcolm; Hamilton, David
Conventional approaches to program evaluation have followed the experimental and psychometric traditions dominant in educational research. Their aim (unfulfilled) of achieving fully objective methods had led to studies that are artificial and restricted in scope. Illuminative evaluation is introduced as a total re-appraisal of the rationale and…
The Power of Why: Engaging the Goal Paradox in Program Evaluation
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Friedman, Victor J.; Rothman, Jay; Withers, Bill
2006-01-01
Clearly defined and measurable goals are commonly considered prerequisites for effective evaluation. Goal setting, however, presents a paradox to evaluators because it takes place at the interface of rationality and values. The objective of this article is to demonstrate a method for unlocking this paradox by making goal setting a process of…
Bae, Youngwoo; Son, Taeyoon; Nelson, J. Stuart; Kim, Jae-Hong; Choi, Eung Ho; Jung, Byungjo
2010-01-01
Background/Purpose Digital color image analysis is currently considered as a routine procedure in dermatology. In our previous study, a multimodal facial color imaging modality (MFCIM), which provides a conventional, parallel- and cross-polarization, and fluorescent color image, was introduced for objective evaluation of various facial skin lesions. This study introduces a commercial version of MFCIM, DermaVision-PRO, for routine clinical use in dermatology and demonstrates its dermatological feasibility for cross-evaluation of skin lesions. Methods/Results Sample images of subjects with actinic keratosis or non-melanoma skin cancers were obtained at four different imaging modes. Various image analysis methods were applied to cross-evaluate the skin lesion and, finally, extract valuable diagnostic information. DermaVision-PRO is potentially a useful tool as an objective macroscopic imaging modality for quick prescreening and cross-evaluation of facial skin lesions. Conclusion DermaVision-PRO may be utilized as a useful tool for cross-evaluation of widely distributed facial skin lesions and an efficient database management of patient information. PMID:20923462
Comparative evaluation of ultrasound scanner accuracy in distance measurement
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Branca, F. P.; Sciuto, S. A.; Scorza, A.
2012-10-01
The aim of the present study is to develop and compare two different automatic methods for accuracy evaluation in ultrasound phantom measurements on B-mode images: both of them give as a result the relative error e between measured distances, performed by 14 brand new ultrasound medical scanners, and nominal distances, among nylon wires embedded in a reference test object. The first method is based on a least squares estimation, while the second one applies the mean value of the same distance evaluated at different locations in ultrasound image (same distance method). Results for both of them are proposed and explained.
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
Cryopreservation methods for poultry semen are not reliable for germplasm preservation, especially for turkeys, where fertility rates from frozen/thawed semen are particularly low. The objective was to evaluate cryopreservation methods for effectiveness in promoting cryosurvival and post-thaw funct...
[Automated procedure for volumetric measurement of metastases: estimation of tumor burden].
Fabel, M; Bolte, H
2008-09-01
Cancer is a common and increasing disease worldwide. Therapy monitoring in oncologic patient care requires accurate and reliable measurement methods for evaluation of the tumor burden. RECIST (response evaluation criteria in solid tumors) and WHO criteria are still the current standards for therapy response evaluation with inherent disadvantages due to considerable interobserver variation of the manual diameter estimations. Volumetric analysis of e.g. lung, liver and lymph node metastases, promises to be a more accurate, precise and objective method for tumor burden estimation.
A hybrid method for evaluating enterprise architecture implementation.
Nikpay, Fatemeh; Ahmad, Rodina; Yin Kia, Chiam
2017-02-01
Enterprise Architecture (EA) implementation evaluation provides a set of methods and practices for evaluating the EA implementation artefacts within an EA implementation project. There are insufficient practices in existing EA evaluation models in terms of considering all EA functions and processes, using structured methods in developing EA implementation, employing matured practices, and using appropriate metrics to achieve proper evaluation. The aim of this research is to develop a hybrid evaluation method that supports achieving the objectives of EA implementation. To attain this aim, the first step is to identify EA implementation evaluation practices. To this end, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was conducted. Second, the proposed hybrid method was developed based on the foundation and information extracted from the SLR, semi-structured interviews with EA practitioners, program theory evaluation and Information Systems (ISs) evaluation. Finally, the proposed method was validated by means of a case study and expert reviews. This research provides a suitable foundation for researchers who wish to extend and continue this research topic with further analysis and exploration, and for practitioners who would like to employ an effective and lightweight evaluation method for EA projects. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Stereoscopic visual fatigue assessment and modeling
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, Danli; Wang, Tingting; Gong, Yue
2014-03-01
Evaluation of stereoscopic visual fatigue is one of the focuses in the user experience research. It is measured in either subjective or objective methods. Objective measures are more preferred for their capability to quantify the degree of human visual fatigue without being affected by individual variation. However, little research has been conducted on the integration of objective indicators, or the sensibility of each objective indicator in reflecting subjective fatigue. The paper proposes a simply effective method to evaluate visual fatigue more objectively. The stereoscopic viewing process is divided into series of sessions, after each of which viewers rate their visual fatigue with subjective scores (SS) according to a five-grading scale, followed by tests of the punctum maximum accommodation (PMA) and visual reaction time (VRT). Throughout the entire viewing process, their eye movements are recorded by an infrared camera. The pupil size (PS) and percentage of eyelid closure over the pupil over time (PERCLOS) are extracted from the videos processed by the algorithm. Based on the method, an experiment with 14 subjects was conducted to assess visual fatigue induced by 3D images on polarized 3D display. The experiment consisted of 10 sessions (5min per session), each containing the same 75 images displayed randomly. The results show that PMA, VRT and PERCLOS are the most efficient indicators of subjective visual fatigue and finally a predictive model is derived from the stepwise multiple regressions.
Expedient Spall Repair Methods and Equipment for Airfield Pavements Preprint
2009-08-01
placement (3). RESEACH OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE The objective of this research was to develop one or more methods that will allow field personnel to...cores were used to perform in-situ tensile pull-off tests to evaluate the bond between the repair material and the substrate. Also, a series of 4...inch diameters cores were cut, and direct shear tests were performed on the repair material/substrate interface. Finally, all spalls were trafficked for
Foreign object detection and removal to improve automated analysis of chest radiographs
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Hogeweg, Laurens; Sanchez, Clara I.; Melendez, Jaime
2013-07-15
Purpose: Chest radiographs commonly contain projections of foreign objects, such as buttons, brassier clips, jewellery, or pacemakers and wires. The presence of these structures can substantially affect the output of computer analysis of these images. An automated method is presented to detect, segment, and remove foreign objects from chest radiographs.Methods: Detection is performed using supervised pixel classification with a kNN classifier, resulting in a probability estimate per pixel to belong to a projected foreign object. Segmentation is performed by grouping and post-processing pixels with a probability above a certain threshold. Next, the objects are replaced by texture inpainting.Results: The methodmore » is evaluated in experiments on 257 chest radiographs. The detection at pixel level is evaluated with receiver operating characteristic analysis on pixels within the unobscured lung fields and an A{sub z} value of 0.949 is achieved. Free response operator characteristic analysis is performed at the object level, and 95.6% of objects are detected with on average 0.25 false positive detections per image. To investigate the effect of removing the detected objects through inpainting, a texture analysis system for tuberculosis detection is applied to images with and without pathology and with and without foreign object removal. Unprocessed, the texture analysis abnormality score of normal images with foreign objects is comparable to those with pathology. After removing foreign objects, the texture score of normal images with and without foreign objects is similar, while abnormal images, whether they contain foreign objects or not, achieve on average higher scores.Conclusions: The authors conclude that removal of foreign objects from chest radiographs is feasible and beneficial for automated image analysis.« less
Low-complexity object detection with deep convolutional neural network for embedded systems
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tripathi, Subarna; Kang, Byeongkeun; Dane, Gokce; Nguyen, Truong
2017-09-01
We investigate low-complexity convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for object detection for embedded vision applications. It is well-known that consolidation of an embedded system for CNN-based object detection is more challenging due to computation and memory requirement comparing with problems like image classification. To achieve these requirements, we design and develop an end-to-end TensorFlow (TF)-based fully-convolutional deep neural network for generic object detection task inspired by one of the fastest framework, YOLO.1 The proposed network predicts the localization of every object by regressing the coordinates of the corresponding bounding box as in YOLO. Hence, the network is able to detect any objects without any limitations in the size of the objects. However, unlike YOLO, all the layers in the proposed network is fully-convolutional. Thus, it is able to take input images of any size. We pick face detection as an use case. We evaluate the proposed model for face detection on FDDB dataset and Widerface dataset. As another use case of generic object detection, we evaluate its performance on PASCAL VOC dataset. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed network can predict object instances of different sizes and poses in a single frame. Moreover, the results show that the proposed method achieves comparative accuracy comparing with the state-of-the-art CNN-based object detection methods while reducing the model size by 3× and memory-BW by 3 - 4× comparing with one of the best real-time CNN-based object detectors, YOLO. Our 8-bit fixed-point TF-model provides additional 4× memory reduction while keeping the accuracy nearly as good as the floating-point model. Moreover, the fixed- point model is capable of achieving 20× faster inference speed comparing with the floating-point model. Thus, the proposed method is promising for embedded implementations.
Klußmann, André; Gebhardt, Hansjürgen; Rieger, Monika; Liebers, Falk; Steinberg, Ulf
2012-01-01
Upper extremity musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders are common in the working population. The economic and social impact of such disorders is considerable. Long-time, dynamic repetitive exposure of the hand-arm system during manual handling operations (MHO) alone or in combination with static and postural effort are recognised as causes of musculoskeletal symptoms and disorders. The assessment of these manual work tasks is crucial to estimate health risks of exposed employees. For these work tasks, a new method for the assessment of the working conditions was developed and a validation study was performed. The results suggest satisfying criterion validity and moderate objectivity of the KIM-MHO draft 2007. The method was modified and evaluated again. It is planned to release a new version of KIM-MHO in spring 2012.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Erener, A.
2013-04-01
Automatic extraction of urban features from high resolution satellite images is one of the main applications in remote sensing. It is useful for wide scale applications, namely: urban planning, urban mapping, disaster management, GIS (geographic information systems) updating, and military target detection. One common approach to detecting urban features from high resolution images is to use automatic classification methods. This paper has four main objectives with respect to detecting buildings. The first objective is to compare the performance of the most notable supervised classification algorithms, including the maximum likelihood classifier (MLC) and the support vector machine (SVM). In this experiment the primary consideration is the impact of kernel configuration on the performance of the SVM. The second objective of the study is to explore the suitability of integrating additional bands, namely first principal component (1st PC) and the intensity image, for original data for multi classification approaches. The performance evaluation of classification results is done using two different accuracy assessment methods: pixel based and object based approaches, which reflect the third aim of the study. The objective here is to demonstrate the differences in the evaluation of accuracies of classification methods. Considering consistency, the same set of ground truth data which is produced by labeling the building boundaries in the GIS environment is used for accuracy assessment. Lastly, the fourth aim is to experimentally evaluate variation in the accuracy of classifiers for six different real situations in order to identify the impact of spatial and spectral diversity on results. The method is applied to Quickbird images for various urban complexity levels, extending from simple to complex urban patterns. The simple surface type includes a regular urban area with low density and systematic buildings with brick rooftops. The complex surface type involves almost all kinds of challenges, such as high dense build up areas, regions with bare soil, and small and large buildings with different rooftops, such as concrete, brick, and metal. Using the pixel based accuracy assessment it was shown that the percent building detection (PBD) and quality percent (QP) of the MLC and SVM depend on the complexity and texture variation of the region. Generally, PBD values range between 70% and 90% for the MLC and SVM, respectively. No substantial improvements were observed when the SVM and MLC classifications were developed by the addition of more variables, instead of the use of only four bands. In the evaluation of object based accuracy assessment, it was demonstrated that while MLC and SVM provide higher rates of correct detection, they also provide higher rates of false alarms.
Magnetic sensor for nondestructive evaluation of deteriorated prestressing strand : phase II.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2011-08-01
This report gives an account of the execution and achievements in Phase II of the project completed through August 2011. The main objective of this project is to advance the practical development of a nondestructive testing and evaluation method usin...
Toolbox for Evaluating Residents as Teachers
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Coverdale, John H.; Ismail, Nadia; Mian, Ayesha; Dewey, Charlene
2010-01-01
Objective: The authors review existing assessment tools related to evaluating residents' teaching skills and teaching effectiveness. Methods: PubMed and PsycInfo databases were searched using combinations of keywords including "residents," "residents as teachers," "teaching skills," and "assessments" or "rating scales." Results: Eleven evaluation…
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2004-07-01
The main objective of this study was to evaluate the current interpretation methods for their capability to reasonably predict the consolidation parameters needed to estimate the magnitude and time rate of consolidation settlement in fine-grained soi...
Removal of brownish-black tarnish on silver-copper alloy objects with sodium glycinate
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
de Figueiredo, João Cura D.'Ars; Asevedo, Samara Santos; Barbosa, João Henrique Ribeiro
2014-10-01
This article has the principal aim of presenting a new method of chemical cleaning of tarnished silver-copper alloy objects. The chemical cleaning must be harmless to the health, selective to tarnish removal, and easy to use. Sodium glycinate was selected for the study. The reactions of sodium glycinate with tarnish and the silver-copper alloy were evaluated. Products of the reaction, the lixiviated material, and the esthetics of silver-copper alloy coins (used as prototypes) were studied to evaluate if the proposed method can be applied to the cleaning of silver objects. Silver-copper alloys can be deteriorated through a uniform and superficial corrosion process that produces brownish-black tarnish. This tarnish alters the esthetic of the object. The cleaning of artistic and archeological objects requires more caution than regular cleaning, and it must take into account the procedures for the conservation and restoration of cultural heritage. There are different methods for cleaning silver-copper alloy objects, chemical cleaning is one of them. We studied two chemical cleaning methods that use sodium glycinate and sodium acetylglycinate solutions. Silver-copper alloy coins were artificially corroded in a basic thiourea solution and immersed in solutions of sodium glycinate and sodium acetylglycinate. After immersion, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy of the surfaces were studied. The sodium glycinate solution was shown to be very efficient in removing the brownish-black tarnish. Absorption spectroscopy measured the percentage of silver and copper lixiviated in immersion baths, and very small quantities of these metals were detected. Infrared absorption spectroscopy and X-ray fluorescence characterized the obtained products. The greater efficiency of the sodium glycinate solution compared to the sodium acetylglycinate solution was explained by chelation and Hard-Soft Acid-Base Theory with the aid of quantum chemical calculations.
[Medical expert assessment, objectivity and justice in disability pension cases. ].
Solli, Hans Magnus
2003-08-14
The formal principle of justice is often interpreted as the requirement of objectivity when a person's situation is to be evaluated in the light of social justice. The aim of this article is to analyse whether or not the formal principle of justice is fulfilled by the ontological and the epistemological concept of objectivity when disability claims are evaluated medically in relation to the Norwegian legislation on disability benefits. material is legal and medical texts about medical disability evaluation. The method is text analysis. The main result is that the concept of ontological objectivity functions as the criterion of objectivity when the causal relations between sickness, impairment and disability are explained. This criterion is, however, problematic because it is based on the assumption that there is a linear causal model of these relations, which precludes the explanation of many cases of disability. The ontological concept of objectivity is not a necessary condition for impartiality and formal justice in relation to the causal relation between sickness and disability. In some situations this concept is a sufficient condition. The epistemological concept of objectivity is a sufficient condition, but it is not a necessary condition. Some cases must be reviewed on a discretionary basis.
Chenais, Erika; Sternberg-Lewerin, Susanna; Boqvist, Sofia; Emanuelson, Ulf; Aliro, Tonny; Tejler, Emma; Cocca, Giampaolo; Masembe, Charles; Ståhl, Karl
2015-01-01
Animal diseases impact negatively on households and on national economies. In low-income countries, this pertains especially to socio-economic effects on household level. To control animal diseases and mitigate their impact, it is necessary to understand the epidemiology of the disease in its local context. Such understanding, gained through disease surveillance, is often lacking in resource-poor settings. Alternative surveillance methods have been developed to overcome some of the hurdles obstructing surveillance. The objective of this study was to evaluate and qualitatively compare three methods for surveillance of acute infectious diseases using African swine fever in northern Uganda as an example. Report-driven outbreak investigations, participatory rural appraisals (PRAs), and a household survey using a smartphone application were evaluated. All three methods had good disease-detecting capacity, and each of them detected many more outbreaks compared to those reported to the World Organization for Animal Health during the same time period. Apparent mortality rates were similar for the three methods although highest for the report-driven outbreak investigations, followed by the PRAs, and then the household survey. The three methods have different characteristics and the method of choice will depend on the surveillance objective. The optimal situation might be achieved by a combination of the methods: outbreak detection via smartphone-based real-time surveillance, outbreak investigation for collection of biological samples, and a PRA for a better understanding of the epidemiology of the specific outbreak. All three methods require initial investments and continuous efforts. The sustainability of the surveillance system should, therefore, be carefully evaluated before making such investments.
Subjective and objective evaluation of visual fatigue on viewing 3D display continuously
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, Danli; Xie, Yaohua; Yang, Xinpan; Lu, Yang; Guo, Anxiang
2015-03-01
In recent years, three-dimensional (3D) displays become more and more popular in many fields. Although they can provide better viewing experience, they cause extra problems, e.g., visual fatigue. Subjective or objective methods are usually used in discrete viewing processes to evaluate visual fatigue. However, little research combines subjective indicators and objective ones in an entirely continuous viewing process. In this paper, we propose a method to evaluate real-time visual fatigue both subjectively and objectively. Subjects watch stereo contents on a polarized 3D display continuously. Visual Reaction Time (VRT), Critical Flicker Frequency (CFF), Punctum Maximum Accommodation (PMA) and subjective scores of visual fatigue are collected before and after viewing. During the viewing process, the subjects rate the visual fatigue whenever it changes, without breaking the viewing process. At the same time, the blink frequency (BF) and percentage of eye closure (PERCLOS) of each subject is recorded for comparison to a previous research. The results show that the subjective visual fatigue and PERCLOS increase with time and they are greater in a continuous process than a discrete one. The BF increased with time during the continuous viewing process. Besides, the visual fatigue also induced significant changes of VRT, CFF and PMA.
Probability-Based Recognition Framework for Underwater Landmarks Using Sonar Images †
Choi, Jinwoo; Choi, Hyun-Taek
2017-01-01
This paper proposes a probability-based framework for recognizing underwater landmarks using sonar images. Current recognition methods use a single image, which does not provide reliable results because of weaknesses of the sonar image such as unstable acoustic source, many speckle noises, low resolution images, single channel image, and so on. However, using consecutive sonar images, if the status—i.e., the existence and identity (or name)—of an object is continuously evaluated by a stochastic method, the result of the recognition method is available for calculating the uncertainty, and it is more suitable for various applications. Our proposed framework consists of three steps: (1) candidate selection, (2) continuity evaluation, and (3) Bayesian feature estimation. Two probability methods—particle filtering and Bayesian feature estimation—are used to repeatedly estimate the continuity and feature of objects in consecutive images. Thus, the status of the object is repeatedly predicted and updated by a stochastic method. Furthermore, we develop an artificial landmark to increase detectability by an imaging sonar, which we apply to the characteristics of acoustic waves, such as instability and reflection depending on the roughness of the reflector surface. The proposed method is verified by conducting basin experiments, and the results are presented. PMID:28837068
Erosion control study : final report : Part II : roadside channels.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
1971-04-01
The objective of the study were: : 1) To evaluate present methods and develop new methods for establishing a permanent vegetative cover. : 2) To develop erosion control practices for existing highway drains and ditches. : 3) To develop highway bank s...
WATER CHEMISTRY ASSESSMENT METHODS
This section summarizes and evaluates the surfce water column chemistry assessment methods for USEPA/EMAP-SW, USGS-NAQA, USEPA-RBP, Oho EPA, and MDNR-MBSS. The basic objective of surface water column chemistry assessment is to characterize surface water quality by measuring a sui...
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Botter Martins, Samuel; Vallin Spina, Thiago; Yasuda, Clarissa; Falcão, Alexandre X.
2017-02-01
Statistical Atlases have played an important role towards automated medical image segmentation. However, a challenge has been to make the atlas more adaptable to possible errors in deformable registration of anomalous images, given that the body structures of interest for segmentation might present significant differences in shape and texture. Recently, deformable registration errors have been accounted by a method that locally translates the statistical atlas over the test image, after registration, and evaluates candidate objects from a delineation algorithm in order to choose the best one as final segmentation. In this paper, we improve its delineation algorithm and extend the model to be a multi-object statistical atlas, built from control images and adaptable to anomalous images, by incorporating a texture classifier. In order to provide a first proof of concept, we instantiate the new method for segmenting, object-by-object and all objects simultaneously, the left and right brain hemispheres, and the cerebellum, without the brainstem, and evaluate it on MRT1-images of epilepsy patients before and after brain surgery, which removed portions of the temporal lobe. The results show efficiency gain with statistically significant higher accuracy, using the mean Average Symmetric Surface Distance, with respect to the original approach.
Mitcham, M D; Vericella, B J
1985-11-01
Results from a two-year study of the individualized contract plan (ICP) approach to faculty evaluation indicate this is a workable method of performance evaluation for allied health faculty. The ICP was found to be individualized, systematic, flexible, and objective. Faculty members and department chairpersons differed in their perception of the effectiveness of the ICP, but both groups supported its continued use. Five major recommendations were made regarding the continued use of the ICP as a method of faculty performance evaluation: (1) separate evaluation and professional development aspects, (2) link results to the institutional reward structure, (3) administer the ICP uniformly among departments, (4) develop a monitoring mechanism, and (5) foster open communication among all participants in the system.
Computation of the acoustic radiation force using the finite-difference time-domain method.
Cai, Feiyan; Meng, Long; Jiang, Chunxiang; Pan, Yu; Zheng, Hairong
2010-10-01
The computational details related to calculating the acoustic radiation force on an object using a 2-D grid finite-difference time-domain method (FDTD) are presented. The method is based on propagating the stress and velocity fields through the grid and determining the energy flow with and without the object. The axial and radial acoustic radiation forces predicted by FDTD method are in excellent agreement with the results obtained by analytical evaluation of the scattering method. In particular, the results indicate that it is possible to trap the steel cylinder in the radial direction by optimizing the width of Gaussian source and the operation frequency. As the sizes of the relating objects are smaller than or comparable to wavelength, the algorithm presented here can be easily extended to 3-D and include torque computation algorithms, thus providing a highly flexible and universally usable computation engine.
Reynolds, Heidi W; Atuahene, Kyeremeh; Sutherland, Elizabeth; Amenyah, Richard; Kwao, Isaiah Doe; Larbi, Emmanuel Tettey
2015-01-01
Objective Just as HIV prevention programs need to be tailored to the local epidemic, so should evaluations be country-owned and country-led to ensure use of those results in decision making and policy. The objective of this paper is to describe the process undertaken in Ghana to develop a national evaluation plan for the Ghana national strategy for key populations. Methods This was a participatory process that involved meetings between the Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC), other partners in Ghana working to prevent HIV among key populations, and MEASURE Evaluation. The process included three two-day, highly structured yet participatory meetings over the course of 12 months during which participants shared information about on-going and planned data and identified research questions and methods. Results An evaluation plan was prepared to inform stakeholders about which data collection activities need to be prioritized for funding, who would implement the study, the timing of data collection, the research question the data will help answer, and the analysis methods. The plan discusses various methods that can be used including the recommendation for the study design using multiple data sources. It has an evaluation conceptual model, proposed analyses, proposed definition of independent variables, estimated costs for filling data gaps, roles and responsibilities of stakeholders to carry out the plan, and considerations for ethics, data sharing and authorship. Conclusion The experience demonstrates that it is possible to design an evaluation responsive to national strategies and priorities with country leadership, regardless of stakeholders' experiences with evaluations. This process may be replicable elsewhere, where stakeholders want to plan and implement an evaluation of a large-scale program at the national or subnational level that is responsive to national priorities and part of a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation system. PMID:26120495
Applying the Multiple Signal Classification Method to Silent Object Detection Using Ambient Noise
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Mori, Kazuyoshi; Yokoyama, Tomoki; Hasegawa, Akio; Matsuda, Minoru
2004-05-01
The revolutionary concept of using ocean ambient noise positively to detect objects, called acoustic daylight imaging, has attracted much attention. The authors attempted the detection of a silent target object using ambient noise and a wide-band beam former consisting of an array of receivers. In experimental results obtained in air, using the wide-band beam former, we successfully applied the delay-sum array (DSA) method to detect a silent target object in an acoustic noise field generated by a large number of transducers. This paper reports some experimental results obtained by applying the multiple signal classification (MUSIC) method to a wide-band beam former to detect silent targets. The ocean ambient noise was simulated by transducers decentralized to many points in air. Both MUSIC and DSA detected a spherical target object in the noise field. The relative power levels near the target obtained with MUSIC were compared with those obtained by DSA. Then the effectiveness of the MUSIC method was evaluated according to the rate of increase in the maximum and minimum relative power levels.
Formal implementation of a performance evaluation model for the face recognition system.
Shin, Yong-Nyuo; Kim, Jason; Lee, Yong-Jun; Shin, Woochang; Choi, Jin-Young
2008-01-01
Due to usability features, practical applications, and its lack of intrusiveness, face recognition technology, based on information, derived from individuals' facial features, has been attracting considerable attention recently. Reported recognition rates of commercialized face recognition systems cannot be admitted as official recognition rates, as they are based on assumptions that are beneficial to the specific system and face database. Therefore, performance evaluation methods and tools are necessary to objectively measure the accuracy and performance of any face recognition system. In this paper, we propose and formalize a performance evaluation model for the biometric recognition system, implementing an evaluation tool for face recognition systems based on the proposed model. Furthermore, we performed evaluations objectively by providing guidelines for the design and implementation of a performance evaluation system, formalizing the performance test process.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chu, J.; Zhang, C.; Fu, G.; Li, Y.; Zhou, H.
2015-08-01
This study investigates the effectiveness of a sensitivity-informed method for multi-objective operation of reservoir systems, which uses global sensitivity analysis as a screening tool to reduce computational demands. Sobol's method is used to screen insensitive decision variables and guide the formulation of the optimization problems with a significantly reduced number of decision variables. This sensitivity-informed method dramatically reduces the computational demands required for attaining high-quality approximations of optimal trade-off relationships between conflicting design objectives. The search results obtained from the reduced complexity multi-objective reservoir operation problems are then used to pre-condition the full search of the original optimization problem. In two case studies, the Dahuofang reservoir and the inter-basin multi-reservoir system in Liaoning province, China, sensitivity analysis results show that reservoir performance is strongly controlled by a small proportion of decision variables. Sensitivity-informed dimension reduction and pre-conditioning are evaluated in their ability to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of multi-objective evolutionary optimization. Overall, this study illustrates the efficiency and effectiveness of the sensitivity-informed method and the use of global sensitivity analysis to inform dimension reduction of optimization problems when solving complex multi-objective reservoir operation problems.
Qualitative evaluations and comparisons of six night-vision colorization methods
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zheng, Yufeng; Reese, Kristopher; Blasch, Erik; McManamon, Paul
2013-05-01
Current multispectral night vision (NV) colorization techniques can manipulate images to produce colorized images that closely resemble natural scenes. The colorized NV images can enhance human perception by improving observer object classification and reaction times especially for low light conditions. This paper focuses on the qualitative (subjective) evaluations and comparisons of six NV colorization methods. The multispectral images include visible (Red-Green- Blue), near infrared (NIR), and long wave infrared (LWIR) images. The six colorization methods are channel-based color fusion (CBCF), statistic matching (SM), histogram matching (HM), joint-histogram matching (JHM), statistic matching then joint-histogram matching (SM-JHM), and the lookup table (LUT). Four categries of quality measurements are used for the qualitative evaluations, which are contrast, detail, colorfulness, and overall quality. The score of each measurement is rated from 1 to 3 scale to represent low, average, and high quality, respectively. Specifically, high contrast (of rated score 3) means an adequate level of brightness and contrast. The high detail represents high clarity of detailed contents while maintaining low artifacts. The high colorfulness preserves more natural colors (i.e., closely resembles the daylight image). Overall quality is determined from the NV image compared to the reference image. Nine sets of multispectral NV images were used in our experiments. For each set, the six colorized NV images (produced from NIR and LWIR images) are concurrently presented to users along with the reference color (RGB) image (taken at daytime). A total of 67 subjects passed a screening test ("Ishihara Color Blindness Test") and were asked to evaluate the 9-set colorized images. The experimental results showed the quality order of colorization methods from the best to the worst: CBCF < SM < SM-JHM < LUT < JHM < HM. It is anticipated that this work will provide a benchmark for NV colorization and for quantitative evaluation using an objective metric such as objective evaluation index (OEI).
ANATOMICAL RECONSTRUCTION OF ANTERIOR CRUCIATE LIGAMENT OF THE KNEE: DOUBLE BAND OR SINGLE BAND?
Zanella, Luiz Antonio Zanotelli; Junior, Adair Bervig; Badotti, Augusto Alves; Michelin, Alexandre Froes; Algarve, Rodrigo Ilha; de Quadros Martins, Cesar Antonio
2015-01-01
Objective: To evaluate the double-band and single-band techniques for anatomical reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament of the knee and demonstrate that the double-band technique not only provides greater anterior stability but also causes less pain and a better subjective patient response. Methods: We selected 42 patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, by means of either the single-band anatomical reconstruction technique, using flexor tendon grafts with two tunnels, or the double-band anatomical reconstruction technique, using four tunnels and grafts from the semitendinosus and gracilis tendons. All fixations were performed using interference screws. There was no variation in the sample. Before the operation, the objective and subjective IKDC scores, Lysholm score and length of time with the injury were evaluated. All these variables were reassessed six months later, and the KT-1000 correlation with the contralateral knee was also evaluated. Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in subjective evaluations, but the single-band group showed better results in relation to range of motion and objective evaluations including KT-1000 (with statistical significance). Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that there was no difference between the two groups in subjective evaluations, but better results were found using the single-band anatomical technique, in relation to objective evaluations. PMID:27042621
Python package for model STructure ANalysis (pySTAN)
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Van Hoey, Stijn; van der Kwast, Johannes; Nopens, Ingmar; Seuntjens, Piet
2013-04-01
The selection and identification of a suitable hydrological model structure is more than fitting parameters of a model structure to reproduce a measured hydrograph. The procedure is highly dependent on various criteria, i.e. the modelling objective, the characteristics and the scale of the system under investigation as well as the available data. Rigorous analysis of the candidate model structures is needed to support and objectify the selection of the most appropriate structure for a specific case (or eventually justify the use of a proposed ensemble of structures). This holds both in the situation of choosing between a limited set of different structures as well as in the framework of flexible model structures with interchangeable components. Many different methods to evaluate and analyse model structures exist. This leads to a sprawl of available methods, all characterized by different assumptions, changing conditions of application and various code implementations. Methods typically focus on optimization, sensitivity analysis or uncertainty analysis, with backgrounds from optimization, machine-learning or statistics amongst others. These methods also need an evaluation metric (objective function) to compare the model outcome with some observed data. However, for current methods described in literature, implementations are not always transparent and reproducible (if available at all). No standard procedures exist to share code and the popularity (and amount of applications) of the methods is sometimes more dependent on the availability than the merits of the method. Moreover, new implementations of existing methods are difficult to verify and the different theoretical backgrounds make it difficult for environmental scientists to decide about the usefulness of a specific method. A common and open framework with a large set of methods can support users in deciding about the most appropriate method. Hence, it enables to simultaneously apply and compare different methods on a fair basis. We developed and present pySTAN (python framework for STructure Analysis), a python package containing a set of functions for model structure evaluation to provide the analysis of (hydrological) model structures. A selected set of algorithms for optimization, uncertainty and sensitivity analysis is currently available, together with a set of evaluation (objective) functions and input distributions to sample from. The methods are implemented model-independent and the python language provides the wrapper functions to apply administer external model codes. Different objective functions can be considered simultaneously with both statistical metrics and more hydrology specific metrics. By using so-called reStructuredText (sphinx documentation generator) and Python documentation strings (docstrings), the generation of manual pages is semi-automated and a specific environment is available to enhance both the readability and transparency of the code. It thereby enables a larger group of users to apply and compare these methods and to extend the functionalities.
Evaluation of Time Domain EM Coupling Techniques. Volume II.
1980-08-01
tool for the analysis of elec- tromangetic coupling and shielding problems: the finite-difference, time-domain (FD- TD ) solution of Maxwell’s equations...The objective of the program was to evaluate the suitability of the FD- TD method to determine the amount of electromagnetic coupling through an...specific questfiowwere addressed during this program: 1. Can the FD- TD method accurately model electromagnetic coupling into a conducting structure for
Effect of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate on Sleep in Children with ADHD
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Giblin, John M.; Strobel, Aaron L.
2011-01-01
Objective: This study evaluated the potential effects of short-term treatment with lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) on both subjective and objective sleep characteristics in children aged 6 to 12 years (n = 24) with ADHD. Method: Polysomnography (PSG) and actigraph measures as well as assessments of subjective sleep parameters were examined in…
The Physician Pipeline to Rural and Underserved Areas in Pennsylvania
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Schwartz, Myron R.
2008-01-01
Context: An implicit objective of a state's investments in medical education is to promote in-state practice of state educated physicians. Purpose: To present a tool for evaluating this objective by analyzing the "pipeline" from medical education to patient care, primary care, rural areas, and underserved areas in Pennsylvania. Methods:…
Modules in Agricultural Education for Agricultural Production.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
New York State Education Dept., Albany. Bureau of Occupational and Career Curriculum Development.
Each of the 61 modules in this packet contains a brief description of the module contents, a list of the major division of units, the overall objectives, objectives by units, content outline, and suggested teaching method, student application activities, and evaluation procedures. A list of resource materials is also included for each. Some of the…
Landscape silviculture for late-successional reserve management
S Hummel; R.J. Barbour
2007-01-01
The effects of different combinations of multiple, variable-intensity silvicultural treatments on fire and habitat management objectives were evaluated for a ±6,000 ha forest reserve using simulation models and optimization techniques. Our methods help identify areas within the reserve where opportunities exist to minimize conflict between the dual landscape objectives...
Modules in Agricultural Education for Agricultural Supplies and Services.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
New York State Education Dept., Albany. Bureau of Occupational and Career Curriculum Development.
Each of the 22 curriculum modules in this packet for instruction in agricultural supplies and services contains a brief description of the module content, a list of the major division or units, the overall objectives, objectives by units, content outline, and suggested teaching methods, student application activities, and evaluation procedures. A…
[Application of optical flow dynamic texture in land use/cover change detection].
Yan, Li; Gong, Yi-Long; Zhang, Yi; Duan, Wei
2014-11-01
In the present study, a novel change detection approach for high resolution remote sensing images is proposed based on the optical flow dynamic texture (OFDT), which could achieve the land use & land cover change information automatically with a dynamic description of ground-object changes. This paper describes the ground-object gradual change process from the principle using optical flow theory, which breaks the ground-object sudden change hypothesis in remote sensing change detection methods in the past. As the steps of this method are simple, it could be integrated in the systems and software such as Land Resource Management and Urban Planning software that needs to find ground-object changes. This method takes into account the temporal dimension feature between remote sensing images, which provides a richer set of information for remote sensing change detection, thereby improving the status that most of the change detection methods are mainly dependent on the spatial dimension information. In this article, optical flow dynamic texture is the basic reflection of changes, and it is used in high resolution remote sensing image support vector machine post-classification change detection, combined with spectral information. The texture in the temporal dimension which is considered in this article has a smaller amount of data than most of the textures in the spatial dimensions. The highly automated texture computing has only one parameter to set, which could relax the onerous manual evaluation present status. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is evaluated with the 2011 and 2012 QuickBird datasets covering Duerbert Mongolian Autonomous County of Daqing City, China. Then, the effects of different optical flow smooth coefficient and the impact on the description of the ground-object changes in the method are deeply analyzed: The experiment result is satisfactory, with an 87.29% overall accuracy and an 0.850 7 Kappa index, and the method achieves better performance than the post-classification change detection methods using spectral information only.
Object detection via eye tracking and fringe restraint
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Pan, Fei; Zhang, Hanming; Zeng, Ying; Tong, Li; Yan, Bin
2017-07-01
Object detection is a computer vision problem which caught a large amount of attention. But the candidate boundingboxes extracted from only image features may end up with false-detection due to the semantic gap between the top-down and the bottom up information. In this paper, we propose a novel method for generating object bounding-boxes proposals using the combination of eye fixation point, saliency detection and edges. The new method obtains a fixation orientated Gaussian map, optimizes the map through single-layer cellular automata, and derives bounding-boxes from the optimized map on three levels. Then we score the boxes by combining all the information above, and choose the box with the highest score to be the final box. We perform an evaluation of our method by comparing with previous state-ofthe art approaches on the challenging POET datasets, the images of which are chosen from PASCAL VOC 2012. Our method outperforms them on small scale objects while comparable to them in general.
A SHORT-TERM REPRODUCTION TEST WITH THE FATHEAD MINNOW PIMEPHALES PROMELAS: II. METHOD EVALUATION
The objective of these studies was to evaluate a short-term test that assesses alterations in reproduction and endocrine function in the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) as a basis for identifying endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Methoxychlor and methyltestosterone were select...
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Holzinger, Andreas; Stickel, Christian; Fassold, Markus; Ebner, Martin
Interface consistency is an important basic concept in web design and has an effect on performance and satisfaction of end users. Consistency also has significant effects on the learning performance of both expert and novice end users. Consequently, the evaluation of consistency within a e-learning system and the ensuing eradication of irritating discrepancies in the user interface redesign is a big issue. In this paper, we report of our experiences with the Shadow Expert Technique (SET) during the evaluation of the consistency of the user interface of a large university learning management system. The main objective of this new usability evaluation method is to understand the interaction processes of end users with a specific system interface. Two teams of usability experts worked independently from each other in order to maximize the objectivity of the results. The outcome of this SET method is a list of recommended changes to improve the user interaction processes, hence to facilitate high consistency.
Assessing sufficient capability: A new approach to economic evaluation.
Mitchell, Paul Mark; Roberts, Tracy E; Barton, Pelham M; Coast, Joanna
2015-08-01
Amartya Sen's capability approach has been discussed widely in the health economics discipline. Although measures have been developed to assess capability in economic evaluation, there has been much less attention paid to the decision rules that might be applied alongside. Here, new methods, drawing on the multidimensional poverty and health economics literature, are developed for conducting economic evaluation within the capability approach and focusing on an objective of achieving "sufficient capability". This objective more closely reflects the concern with equity that pervades the capability approach and the method has the advantage of retaining the longitudinal aspect of estimating outcome that is associated with quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), whilst also drawing on notions of shortfall associated with assessments of poverty. Economic evaluation from this perspective is illustrated in an osteoarthritis patient group undergoing joint replacement, with capability wellbeing assessed using ICECAP-O. Recommendations for taking the sufficient capability approach forward are provided. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Surgeon-tool force/torque signatures--evaluation of surgical skills in minimally invasive surgery.
Rosen, J; MacFarlane, M; Richards, C; Hannaford, B; Sinanan, M
1999-01-01
The best method of training for laparoscopic surgical skills is controversial. Some advocate observation in the operating room, while others promote animal and simulated models or a combination of surgical related tasks. The mode of proficiency evaluation common to all of these methods has been subjective evaluation by a skilled surgeon. In order to define an objective means of evaluating performance, an instrumented laparoscopic grasper was developed measuring the force/torque at the surgeon hand/tool interface. The measured database demonstrated substantial differences between experienced and novice surgeon groups. Analyzing forces and torques combined with the state transition during surgical procedures allows an objective measurement of skill in MIS. Teaching the novice surgeon to limit excessive loads and improve movement efficiency during surgical procedures can potentially result in less injury to soft tissues and less wasted time during laparoscopic surgery. Moreover the force/torque database measured in this study may be used for developing realistic virtual reality simulators and optimization of medical robots performance.
Magnetic resonance imaging of articular cartilage: trauma, degeneration, and repair.
Potter, Hollis G; Foo, Li F
2006-04-01
The assessment of articular cartilage using magnetic resonance imaging has seen considerable advances in recent years. Cartilage morphologic characteristics can now be evaluated with a high degree of accuracy and reproducibility using dedicated pulse sequences, which are becoming standard at many institutions. These techniques detect clinically unsuspected traumatic cartilage lesions, allowing the physician to study their natural history with longitudinal evaluation and also to assess disease status in degenerative osteoarthritis. Magnetic resonance imaging also provides a more objective assessment of cartilage repair to augment the information obtained from more subjective clinical outcome instruments. Newly developed methods that provide detail at an ultrastructural level offer an important addition to cartilage evaluation, particularly in the detection of early alterations in the extracellular matrix. These methods have created an undeniably important role for magnetic resonance imaging in the reproducible, noninvasive, and objective evaluation and monitoring of cartilage. An overview of the advances, current techniques, and impact of magnetic resonance imaging in the setting of trauma, degenerative arthritides, and surgical treatment for cartilage injury is presented.
Automated robot-assisted surgical skill evaluation: Predictive analytics approach.
Fard, Mahtab J; Ameri, Sattar; Darin Ellis, R; Chinnam, Ratna B; Pandya, Abhilash K; Klein, Michael D
2018-02-01
Surgical skill assessment has predominantly been a subjective task. Recently, technological advances such as robot-assisted surgery have created great opportunities for objective surgical evaluation. In this paper, we introduce a predictive framework for objective skill assessment based on movement trajectory data. Our aim is to build a classification framework to automatically evaluate the performance of surgeons with different levels of expertise. Eight global movement features are extracted from movement trajectory data captured by a da Vinci robot for surgeons with two levels of expertise - novice and expert. Three classification methods - k-nearest neighbours, logistic regression and support vector machines - are applied. The result shows that the proposed framework can classify surgeons' expertise as novice or expert with an accuracy of 82.3% for knot tying and 89.9% for a suturing task. This study demonstrates and evaluates the ability of machine learning methods to automatically classify expert and novice surgeons using global movement features. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Automatic detection and classification of obstacles with applications in autonomous mobile robots
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ponomaryov, Volodymyr I.; Rosas-Miranda, Dario I.
2016-04-01
Hardware implementation of an automatic detection and classification of objects that can represent an obstacle for an autonomous mobile robot using stereo vision algorithms is presented. We propose and evaluate a new method to detect and classify objects for a mobile robot in outdoor conditions. This method is divided in two parts, the first one is the object detection step based on the distance from the objects to the camera and a BLOB analysis. The second part is the classification step that is based on visuals primitives and a SVM classifier. The proposed method is performed in GPU in order to reduce the processing time values. This is performed with help of hardware based on multi-core processors and GPU platform, using a NVIDIA R GeForce R GT640 graphic card and Matlab over a PC with Windows 10.
Göhler, Daniel; Wessely, Benno; Stintz, Michael; Lazzerini, Giovanni Mattia; Yacoot, Andrew
2017-01-01
Dimensional measurements on nano-objects by atomic force microscopy (AFM) require samples of safely fixed and well individualized particles with a suitable surface-specific particle number on flat and clean substrates. Several known and proven particle preparation methods, i.e., membrane filtration, drying, rinsing, dip coating as well as electrostatic and thermal precipitation, were performed by means of scanning electron microscopy to examine their suitability for preparing samples for dimensional AFM measurements. Different suspensions of nano-objects (with varying material, size and shape) stabilized in aqueous solutions were prepared therefore on different flat substrates. The drop-drying method was found to be the most suitable one for the analysed suspensions, because it does not require expensive dedicated equipment and led to a uniform local distribution of individualized nano-objects. Traceable AFM measurements based on Si and SiO2 coated substrates confirmed the suitability of this technique. PMID:28904839
Fiala, Petra; Göhler, Daniel; Wessely, Benno; Stintz, Michael; Lazzerini, Giovanni Mattia; Yacoot, Andrew
2017-01-01
Dimensional measurements on nano-objects by atomic force microscopy (AFM) require samples of safely fixed and well individualized particles with a suitable surface-specific particle number on flat and clean substrates. Several known and proven particle preparation methods, i.e., membrane filtration, drying, rinsing, dip coating as well as electrostatic and thermal precipitation, were performed by means of scanning electron microscopy to examine their suitability for preparing samples for dimensional AFM measurements. Different suspensions of nano-objects (with varying material, size and shape) stabilized in aqueous solutions were prepared therefore on different flat substrates. The drop-drying method was found to be the most suitable one for the analysed suspensions, because it does not require expensive dedicated equipment and led to a uniform local distribution of individualized nano-objects. Traceable AFM measurements based on Si and SiO 2 coated substrates confirmed the suitability of this technique.
Daud-Gallotti, Renata Mahfuz; Morinaga, Christian Valle; Arlindo-Rodrigues, Marcelo; Velasco, Irineu Tadeu; Arruda Martins, Milton; Tiberio, Iolanda Calvo
2011-01-01
INTRODUCTION: Patient safety is seldom assessed using objective evaluations during undergraduate medical education. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the performance of fifth-year medical students using an objective structured clinical examination focused on patient safety after implementation of an interactive program based on adverse events recognition and disclosure. METHODS: In 2007, a patient safety program was implemented in the internal medicine clerkship of our hospital. The program focused on human error theory, epidemiology of incidents, adverse events, and disclosure. Upon completion of the program, students completed an objective structured clinical examination with five stations and standardized patients. One station focused on patient safety issues, including medical error recognition/disclosure, the patient-physician relationship and humanism issues. A standardized checklist was completed by each standardized patient to assess the performance of each student. The student's global performance at each station and performance in the domains of medical error, the patient-physician relationship and humanism were determined. The correlations between the student performances in these three domains were calculated. RESULTS: A total of 95 students participated in the objective structured clinical examination. The mean global score at the patient safety station was 87.59±1.24 points. Students' performance in the medical error domain was significantly lower than their performance on patient-physician relationship and humanistic issues. Less than 60% of students (n = 54) offered the simulated patient an apology after a medical error occurred. A significant correlation was found between scores obtained in the medical error domains and scores related to both the patient-physician relationship and humanistic domains. CONCLUSIONS: An objective structured clinical examination is a useful tool to evaluate patient safety competencies during the medical student clerkship. PMID:21876976
CART V: recent advancements in computer-aided camouflage assessment
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Müller, Thomas; Müller, Markus
2011-05-01
In order to facilitate systematic, computer aided improvements of camouflage and concealment assessment methods, the software system CART (Camouflage Assessment in Real-Time) was built up for the camouflage assessment of objects in multispectral image sequences (see contributions to SPIE 2007-2010 [1], [2], [3], [4]). It comprises a semi-automatic marking of target objects (ground truth generation) including their propagation over the image sequence and the evaluation via user-defined feature extractors as well as methods to assess the object's movement conspicuity. In this fifth part in an annual series at the SPIE conference in Orlando, this paper presents the enhancements over the recent year and addresses the camouflage assessment of static and moving objects in multispectral image data that can show noise or image artefacts. The presented methods fathom the correlations between image processing and camouflage assessment. A novel algorithm is presented based on template matching to assess the structural inconspicuity of an object objectively and quantitatively. The results can easily be combined with an MTI (moving target indication) based movement conspicuity assessment function in order to explore the influence of object movement to a camouflage effect in different environments. As the results show, the presented methods contribute to a significant benefit in the field of camouflage assessment.
Craft, David
2010-10-01
A discrete set of points and their convex combinations can serve as a sparse representation of the Pareto surface in multiple objective convex optimization. We develop a method to evaluate the quality of such a representation, and show by example that in multiple objective radiotherapy planning, the number of Pareto optimal solutions needed to represent Pareto surfaces of up to five dimensions grows at most linearly with the number of objectives. The method described is also applicable to the representation of convex sets. Copyright © 2009 Associazione Italiana di Fisica Medica. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Estimation of muscle strength during motion recognition using multichannel surface EMG signals.
Nagata, Kentaro; Nakano, Takemi; Magatani, Kazushige; Yamada, Masafumi
2008-01-01
The use of kinesiological electromyography is established as an evaluation tool for various kinds of applied research, and surface electromyogram (SEMG) has been widely used as a control source for human interfaces such as in a myoelectric prosthetic hand (we call them 'SEMG interfaces'). It is desirable to be able to control the SEMG interfaces with the same feeling as body movement. The existing SEMG interface mainly focuses on how to achieve accurate recognition of the intended movement. However, detecting muscular strength and reduced number of electrodes are also an important factor in controlling them. Therefore, our objective in this study is the development of and the estimation method for muscular strength that maintains the accuracy of hand motion recognition to reflect the result of measured power in a controlled object. Although the muscular strength can be evaluated by various methods, in this study a grasp force index was applied to evaluate the muscular strength. In order to achieve our objective, we directed our attention to measuring all valuable information for SEMG. This work proposes an application method of two simple linear models, and the selection method of an optimal electrode configuration to use them effectively. Our system required four SEMG measurement electrodes in which locations differed for every subject depending on the individual's characteristics, and those were selected from a 96ch multi electrode using the Monte Carlo method. From the experimental results, the performance in six normal subjects indicated that the recognition rate of four motions were perfect and the grasp force estimated result fit well with the actual measurement result.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chen, Tien-Li; Pan, Fang-Ming; Tsai, Jen-Hui
2013-03-01
This study aimed to investigate the correlation of the image associated by the design Co-Brand (Jimmy S.P.A. and STRAUSS) and the impression perceived by subject of viewers. Visual images were used to examine the merit of the evaluation. The best result is provided using an object as an appropriate evaluation method. There are a lot of factors which influence to evaluation of a design. This study is limited to distinguish the appearance from Jimmy's picture books transform furniture and so on. Co-Brand of Jimmy S.P.A. and STRAUSS is not easy because there are not from the same cultural, and industry background and applying different marketing strategy, it is a way to combine the two brands by designing, used questionnaire of SD (Semantic differential evaluation) evaluation method to test out the perception of viewers, the objective of this study is to investigate and appraised the Co-Brands use by of the image in furniture from patrons. SD evaluation result showed, if design cannot understand the perception image of Jimmy S.P.A and STRAUSS with viewers mind, furniture design also can't transmit feeling with design.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Lou, Vivian W. Q.; Zhang, Yiqi
2006-01-01
Objective: This study evaluated the effectiveness of a Participatory Empowerment Group (PEG) for Chinese type 2 diabetes patients in Shanghai. Method: A randomized waiting list control and pretest and posttest comparisons were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention by comparing blood sugar level and health-related quality of life.…
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Boyd, J.L.
1996-08-01
As of December 1995, the manufacture of Freon, along with many other chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), was prohibited by the Clean Air Act of 1990 (CAA). The ban of CFC solvents has forced manufacturers across the country to search for alternative metal cleaning techniques. The objective of this study was to develop a thorough, scientific based approach for resolving one specific manufacturer`s problem of removing organic contamination from a stainless steel part. This objective was accomplished with an approach that involved: (1) defining the problem, (2) identifying the process constraints, (3) researching alternate cleaning methods, (4) researching applicable government regulations, (5) performingmore » a scientific evaluation and (6) drawing conclusions.« less
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Ramchandani, Dilip
2011-01-01
Background/Objective: The author analyzed and compared various assessment methods for assessment of medical students; these methods included clinical assessment and the standardized National Board of Medical Education (NBME) subject examination. Method: Students were evaluated on their 6-week clerkship in psychiatry by both their clinical…
Objective measurement of bread crumb texture
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, Jian; Coles, Graeme D.
1995-01-01
Evaluation of bread crumb texture plays an important role in judging bread quality. This paper discusses the application of image analysis methods to the objective measurement of the visual texture of bread crumb. The application of Fast Fourier Transform and mathematical morphology methods have been discussed by the authors in their previous work, and a commercial bread texture measurement system has been developed. Based on the nature of bread crumb texture, we compare the advantages and disadvantages of the two methods, and a third method based on features derived directly from statistics of edge density in local windows of the bread image. The analysis of various methods and experimental results provides an insight into the characteristics of the bread texture image and interconnection between texture measurement algorithms. The usefulness of the application of general stochastic process modelling of texture is thus revealed; it leads to more reliable and accurate evaluation of bread crumb texture. During the development of these methods, we also gained useful insights into how subjective judges form opinions about bread visual texture. These are discussed here.
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Syroid, Noah (Inventor); Westinskow, Dwayne (Inventor); Agutter, James (Inventor); Albert, Robert (Inventor); Strayer, David (Inventor); Wachter, S. Blake (Inventor); Drews, Frank (Inventor)
2010-01-01
A method, system, apparatus and device for the monitoring, diagnosis and evaluation of the state of a dynamic pulmonary system is disclosed. This method and system provides the processing means for receiving sensed and/or simulated data, converting such data into a displayable object format and displaying such objects in a manner such that the interrelationships between the respective variables can be correlated and identified by a user. This invention provides for the rapid cognitive grasp of the overall state of a pulmonary critical function with respect to a dynamic system.
A Framework for Usability Evaluation in EHR Procurement.
Tyllinen, Mari; Kaipio, Johanna; Lääveri, Tinja
2018-01-01
Usability should be considered already by the procuring organizations when selecting future systems. In this paper, we present a framework for usability evaluation during electronic health record (EHR) system procurement. We describe the objectives of the evaluation, the procedure, selected usability attributes and the evaluation methods to measure them. We also present the emphasis usability had in the selection process. We do not elaborate on the details of the results, the application of methods or gathering of data. Instead we focus on the components of the framework to inform and give an example to other similar procurement projects.
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Toro, Javier, E-mail: jjtoroca@unal.edu.co; Requena, Ignacio, E-mail: requena@decsai.ugr.es; Duarte, Oscar, E-mail: ogduartev@unal.edu.co
In environmental impact assessment, qualitative methods are used because they are versatile and easy to apply. This methodology is based on the evaluation of the strength of the impact by grading a series of qualitative attributes that can be manipulated by the evaluator. The results thus obtained are not objective, and all too often impacts are eliminated that should be mitigated with corrective measures. However, qualitative methodology can be improved if the calculation of Impact Importance is based on the characteristics of environmental factors and project activities instead on indicators assessed by evaluators. In this sense, this paper proposes themore » inclusion of the vulnerability of environmental factors and the potential environmental impact of project activities. For this purpose, the study described in this paper defined Total Impact Importance and specified a quantification procedure. The results obtained in the case study of oil drilling in Colombia reflect greater objectivity in the evaluation of impacts as well as a positive correlation between impact values, the environmental characteristics at and near the project location, and the technical characteristics of project activities. -- Highlights: • Concept of vulnerability has been used to calculate the importance impact assessment. • This paper defined Total Impact Importance and specified a quantification procedure. • The method includes the characteristics of environmental and project activities. • The application has shown greater objectivity in the evaluation of impacts. • Better correlation between impact values, environment and the project has been shown.« less
Remote Evaluation of Rotational Velocity Using a Quadrant Photo-Detector and a DSC Algorithm
Zeng, Xiangkai; Zhu, Zhixiong; Chen, Yang
2016-01-01
This paper presents an approach to remotely evaluate the rotational velocity of a measured object by using a quadrant photo-detector and a differential subtraction correlation (DSC) algorithm. The rotational velocity of a rotating object is determined by two temporal-delay numbers at the minima of two DSCs that are derived from the four output signals of the quadrant photo-detector, and the sign of the calculated rotational velocity directly represents the rotational direction. The DSC algorithm does not require any multiplication operations. Experimental calculations were performed to confirm the proposed evaluation method. The calculated rotational velocity, including its amplitude and direction, showed good agreement with the given one, which had an amplitude error of ~0.3%, and had over 1100 times the efficiency of the traditional cross-correlation method in the case of data number N > 4800. The confirmations have shown that the remote evaluation of rotational velocity can be done without any circular division disk, and that it has much fewer error sources, making it simple, accurate and effective for remotely evaluating rotational velocity. PMID:27120607
Evaluation of Individuals With Pulmonary Nodules: When Is It Lung Cancer?
Donington, Jessica; Lynch, William R.; Mazzone, Peter J.; Midthun, David E.; Naidich, David P.; Wiener, Renda Soylemez
2013-01-01
Objectives: The objective of this article is to update previous evidence-based recommendations for evaluation and management of individuals with solid pulmonary nodules and to generate new recommendations for those with nonsolid nodules. Methods: We updated prior literature reviews, synthesized evidence, and formulated recommendations by using the methods described in the “Methodology for Development of Guidelines for Lung Cancer” in the American College of Chest Physicians Lung Cancer Guidelines, 3rd ed. Results: We formulated recommendations for evaluating solid pulmonary nodules that measure > 8 mm in diameter, solid nodules that measure ≤ 8 mm in diameter, and subsolid nodules. The recommendations stress the value of assessing the probability of malignancy, the utility of imaging tests, the need to weigh the benefits and harms of different management strategies (nonsurgical biopsy, surgical resection, and surveillance with chest CT imaging), and the importance of eliciting patient preferences. Conclusions: Individuals with pulmonary nodules should be evaluated and managed by estimating the probability of malignancy, performing imaging tests to better characterize the lesions, evaluating the risks associated with various management alternatives, and eliciting their preferences for management. PMID:23649456
Yang, Yushi
2015-01-01
Background Eye-tracking technology has been used to measure human cognitive processes and has the potential to improve the usability of health information technology (HIT). However, it is still unclear how the eye-tracking method can be integrated with other traditional usability methodologies to achieve its full potential. Objective The objective of this study was to report on HIT evaluation studies that have used eye-tracker technology, and to envision the potential use of eye-tracking technology in future research. Methods We used four reference databases to initially identify 5248 related papers, which resulted in only 9 articles that met our inclusion criteria. Results Eye-tracking technology was useful in finding usability problems in many ways, but is still in its infancy for HIT usability evaluation. Limited types of HITs have been evaluated by eye trackers, and there has been a lack of evaluation research in natural settings. Conclusions More research should be done in natural settings to discover the real contextual-based usability problems of clinical and mobile HITs using eye-tracking technology with more standardized methodologies and guidance. PMID:27026079
Li, Liyuan; Huang, Weimin; Gu, Irene Yu-Hua; Luo, Ruijiang; Tian, Qi
2008-10-01
Efficiency and robustness are the two most important issues for multiobject tracking algorithms in real-time intelligent video surveillance systems. We propose a novel 2.5-D approach to real-time multiobject tracking in crowds, which is formulated as a maximum a posteriori estimation problem and is approximated through an assignment step and a location step. Observing that the occluding object is usually less affected by the occluded objects, sequential solutions for the assignment and the location are derived. A novel dominant color histogram (DCH) is proposed as an efficient object model. The DCH can be regarded as a generalized color histogram, where dominant colors are selected based on a given distance measure. Comparing with conventional color histograms, the DCH only requires a few color components (31 on average). Furthermore, our theoretical analysis and evaluation on real data have shown that DCHs are robust to illumination changes. Using the DCH, efficient implementations of sequential solutions for the assignment and location steps are proposed. The assignment step includes the estimation of the depth order for the objects in a dispersing group, one-by-one assignment, and feature exclusion from the group representation. The location step includes the depth-order estimation for the objects in a new group, the two-phase mean-shift location, and the exclusion of tracked objects from the new position in the group. Multiobject tracking results and evaluation from public data sets are presented. Experiments on image sequences captured from crowded public environments have shown good tracking results, where about 90% of the objects have been successfully tracked with the correct identification numbers by the proposed method. Our results and evaluation have indicated that the method is efficient and robust for tracking multiple objects (>or= 3) in complex occlusion for real-world surveillance scenarios.
A computer analysis of reflex eyelid motion in normal subjects and in facial neuropathy.
Somia, N N; Rash, G S; Epstein, E E; Wachowiak, M; Sundine, M J; Stremel, R W; Barker, J H; Gossman, D
2000-12-01
To demonstrate how computerized eyelid motion analysis can quantify the human reflex blink. Seventeen normal subjects and 10 patients with unilateral facial nerve paralysis were analyzed. Eyelid closure is currently evaluated by systems primarily designed to assess lower/midfacial movements. The methods are subjective, difficult to reproduce, and measure only volitional closure. Reflex closure is responsible for eye hydration, and its evaluation demands dynamic analysis. A 60Hz video camera incorporated into a helmet was used to analyze blinking. Reflective markers on the forehead and eyelids allowed for the dynamic measurement of the reflex blink. Eyelid displacement, velocity and acceleration were calculated. The degree of synchrony between bilateral blinks was also determined. This study demonstrates that video motion analysis can describe normal and altered eyelid motions in a quantifiable manner. To our knowledge, this is the first study to measure dynamic reflex blinks. Eyelid closure may now be evaluated in kinematic terms. This technique could increase understanding of eyelid motion and permit more accurate evaluation of eyelid function. Dynamic eyelid evaluation has immediate applications in the treatment of facial palsy affecting the reflex blink. Relevance No method has been developed that objectively quantifies dynamic eyelid closure. Methods currently in use evaluate only volitional eyelid closure, and are based on direct and indirect observer assessments. These methods are subjective and are incapable of analyzing dynamic eyelid movements, which are critical to maintenance of corneal hydration and comfort. A system that quantifies eyelid kinematics can provide a functional analysis of blink disorders and an objective evaluation of their treatment(s).
Grey Comprehensive Evaluation of Biomass Power Generation Project Based on Group Judgement
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Xia, Huicong; Niu, Dongxiao
2017-06-01
The comprehensive evaluation of benefit is an important task needed to be carried out at all stages of biomass power generation projects. This paper proposed an improved grey comprehensive evaluation method based on triangle whiten function. To improve the objectivity of weight calculation result of only reference comparison judgment method, this paper introduced group judgment to the weighting process. In the process of grey comprehensive evaluation, this paper invited a number of experts to estimate the benefit level of projects, and optimized the basic estimations based on the minimum variance principle to improve the accuracy of evaluation result. Taking a biomass power generation project as an example, the grey comprehensive evaluation result showed that the benefit level of this project was good. This example demonstrates the feasibility of grey comprehensive evaluation method based on group judgment for benefit evaluation of biomass power generation project.
Findings of the District English Program Evaluation Committee.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Price, A. Rae; And Others
In summer 1990, the English Department of the Metropolitan Community College District (MCCD) in Missouri conducted a self-study to determine whether the English program's subject matter, academic standards, and methods of instruction were consistent with objectives. An Evaluation Committee, consisting of three English instructors representing each…
EVALUATION OF FADROZOLE AS AN ENDOCRINE DISRUPTOR IN FATHEAD MINNOW (PIMEPHALES PROMELAS)
The EPA has received a legislative mandate to develop and implement standardized screening and testing methods to identify and assess potential endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). The objective of this research was to evaluate a short-term EDC screening/testing assay which ass...
A SHORT TERM REPRODUCTION TEST WITH THE FATHEAD MINNOW (PIMEPHALES PROMELAS): LL. METHOD EVALUATION
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is required to develop, validate, and implement a screening program for identifying potential endocrine-disrupting chemicals. The objective of this research was to evaluate the recommended short term test which assesses alterations in repr...
Mental Health Issues among College Students: Who Gets Referred for Psychopharmacology Evaluation?
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Kirsch, Daniel J.; Doerfler, Leonard A.; Truong, Debbie
2015-01-01
Objective: To describe diagnostic and psychotropic medication prescription characteristics among college students referred by college counseling centers for psychopharmacologic evaluation. Participants: Participants were 540 college students referred by 6 college counseling centers in Massachusetts between November 2005 and May 2011. Methods:…
Comparison of RCS prediction techniques, computations and measurements
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Brand, M. G. E.; Vanewijk, L. J.; Klinker, F.; Schippers, H.
1992-07-01
Three calculation methods to predict radar cross sections (RCS) of three dimensional objects are evaluated by computing the radar cross sections of a generic wing inlet configuration. The following methods are applied: a three dimensional high frequency method, a three dimensional boundary element method, and a two dimensional finite difference time domain method. The results of the computations are compared with the data of measurements.
Multi-criteria evaluation methods in the production scheduling
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Kalinowski, K.; Krenczyk, D.; Paprocka, I.; Kempa, W.; Grabowik, C.
2016-08-01
The paper presents a discussion on the practical application of different methods of multi-criteria evaluation in the process of scheduling in manufacturing systems. Among the methods two main groups are specified: methods based on the distance function (using metacriterion) and methods that create a Pareto set of possible solutions. The basic criteria used for scheduling were also described. The overall procedure of evaluation process in production scheduling was presented. It takes into account the actions in the whole scheduling process and human decision maker (HDM) participation. The specified HDM decisions are related to creating and editing a set of evaluation criteria, selection of multi-criteria evaluation method, interaction in the searching process, using informal criteria and making final changes in the schedule for implementation. According to need, process scheduling may be completely or partially automated. Full automatization is possible in case of metacriterion based objective function and if Pareto set is selected - the final decision has to be done by HDM.
Objective measures of situation awareness in a simulated medical environment
Wright, M; Taekman, J; Endsley, M
2004-01-01
One major limitation in the use of human patient simulators is a lack of objective, validated measures of human performance. Objective measures are necessary if simulators are to be used to evaluate the skills and training of medical practitioners and teams or to evaluate the impact of new processes or equipment design on overall system performance. Situation awareness (SA) refers to a person's perception and understanding of their dynamic environment. This awareness and comprehension is critical in making correct decisions that ultimately lead to correct actions in medical care settings. An objective measure of SA may be more sensitive and diagnostic than traditional performance measures. This paper reviews a theory of SA and discusses the methods required for developing an objective measure of SA within the context of a simulated medical environment. Analysis and interpretation of SA data for both individual and team performance in health care are also presented. PMID:15465958
Magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of clinical treatment of otospongiosis: a pilot study.
de Oliveira Vicente, Andy; Chandrasekhar, Sujana S; Yamashita, Helio K; Cruz, Oswaldo Laercio M; Barros, Flavia A; Penido, Norma O
2015-06-01
To evaluate the applicability of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a method for monitoring the activity of otospongiotic lesions before and after clinical treatment. Prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blind study. One single tertiary care institution in a large, cosmopolitan city. Twenty-six patients (n = 42 ears) with clinical, audiometric, and tomographic diagnosis of otosclerosis were enrolled. If computed tomography (CT) demonstrated active lesions, these patients underwent MRI to detect otospongiotic foci, seen as areas of gadolinium enhancement. Patients were divided into 3 groups and received treatment with placebo, sodium alendronate, or sodium fluoride for 6 months. After this period, clinical and audiometric evaluations and a second MRI were performed. Each MRI was evaluated by both a neuroradiologist and an otolaryngologist in a subjective (visual) and objective (using specific eFilm Workstation software) manner. Otospongiosis was most predominantly identified in the region anterior to the oval window, and this site was reliable for comparing pre- and posttreatment scans. The patients in the alendronate and sodium fluoride groups had MRI findings that suggested a decrease in activity of otospongiotic lesions, more relevant in the alendronate group. These findings were statistically significant for both subjective and objective MRI evaluations. MRI shows higher sensitivity than clinical or audiometric assessment for detecting reduction in activity of otospongiosis. The objective MRI evaluation based on software analysis was the most accurate method of monitoring clinical treatment response in otospongiosis. © American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation 2015.
Hölzer, Henrike; Freytag, Julia; Sonntag, Ulrike
2017-01-01
Objective: The introduction of innovative teaching formats and methods in medical education requires a specific didactic training for teachers to use complicated formats effectively. This paper describes preliminary considerations, design, implementation and evaluation of a skills-based workshop (7,5 hours long) for teaching with simulated patients. The aim is to describe the essential components for a lasting effect of the workshop so that the concept can be adapted to other contexts. Method: We present the theoretical framework, the objectives, the didactic methodology and the implementation of the workshop. The evaluation of the workshop was carried out using questionnaires. First the participants (teachers of the faculty of medicine, clinical and science subjects) were asked to estimate how well they felt prepared for small group teaching immediately after workshop. Later, after some teaching experience of their own, they gave feedback again as a part of the general evaluation of the semester. Results: In the course of three years 27 trainings were conducted and evaluated with a total of 275 participants. In the context of semester evaluation 452 questionnaires were evaluated on the quality of training. Conclusion: The evaluation shows that participants appreciate the concept of the workshop and also feel sufficiently well prepared. As a limitation it must be said that this is so far only the lecturers' self-assessment. Nevertheless, it can be stated that even a one-day workshop with a stringent teaching concept shows long term results regarding innovative teaching methods.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
de Azevedo, Samara C.; Singh, Ramesh P.; da Silva, Erivaldo A.
2017-04-01
Finer spatial resolution of areas with tall objects within urban environment causes intense shadows that lead to wrong information in urban mapping. Due to the shadows, automatic detection of objects (such as buildings, trees, structures, towers) and to estimate the surface coverage from high spatial resolution is difficult. Thus, automatic shadow detection is the first necessary preprocessing step to improve the outcome of many remote sensing applications, particularly for high spatial resolution images. Efforts have been made to explore spatial and spectral information to evaluate such shadows. In this paper, we have used morphological attribute filtering to extract contextual relations in an efficient multilevel approach for high resolution images. The attribute selected for the filtering was the area estimated from shadow spectral feature using the Normalized Saturation-Value Difference Index (NSVDI) derived from pan-sharpening images. In order to assess the quality of fusion products and the influence on shadow detection algorithm, we evaluated three pan-sharpening methods - Intensity-Hue-Saturation (IHS), Principal Components (PC) and Gran-Schmidt (GS) through the image quality measures: Correlation Coefficient (CC), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Relative Dimensionless Global Error in Synthesis (ERGAS) and Universal Image Quality Index (UIQI). Experimental results over Worldview II scene from São Paulo city (Brazil) show that GS method provides good correlation with original multispectral bands with no radiometric and contrast distortion. The automatic method using GS method for NSDVI generation clearly provide a clear distinction of shadows and non-shadows pixels with an overall accuracy more than 90%. The experimental results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed approach which could be used for further shadow removal and reliable for object recognition, land-cover mapping, 3D reconstruction, etc. especially in developing countries where land use and land cover are rapidly changing with tall objects within urban areas.
Development of new test procedures for measuring fine and coarse aggregates specific gravity.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2009-09-01
The objective of the research is to develop and evaluate new test methods at determining the specific gravity and absorption of both fine and coarse aggregates. Current methods at determining the specific gravity and absorption of fine and coarse agg...
Chemical databases evaluated by order theoretical tools.
Voigt, Kristina; Brüggemann, Rainer; Pudenz, Stefan
2004-10-01
Data on environmental chemicals are urgently needed to comply with the future chemicals policy in the European Union. The availability of data on parameters and chemicals can be evaluated by chemometrical and environmetrical methods. Different mathematical and statistical methods are taken into account in this paper. The emphasis is set on a new, discrete mathematical method called METEOR (method of evaluation by order theory). Application of the Hasse diagram technique (HDT) of the complete data-matrix comprising 12 objects (databases) x 27 attributes (parameters + chemicals) reveals that ECOTOX (ECO), environmental fate database (EFD) and extoxnet (EXT)--also called multi-database databases--are best. Most single databases which are specialised are found in a minimal position in the Hasse diagram; these are biocatalysis/biodegradation database (BID), pesticide database (PES) and UmweltInfo (UMW). The aggregation of environmental parameters and chemicals (equal weight) leads to a slimmer data-matrix on the attribute side. However, no significant differences are found in the "best" and "worst" objects. The whole approach indicates a rather bad situation in terms of the availability of data on existing chemicals and hence an alarming signal concerning the new and existing chemicals policies of the EEC.
Subjective and objective scales to assess the development of children cerebral palsy.
Pietrzak, S; Jóźwiak, M
2001-01-01
Many scoring systems hale been constructed to assess the motor development of cerebral palsy children and to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. According to the purposes they fulfill, these instruments may be divided into three types: discriminative, evaluative and predictive. The design and measurement methodology are the criteria that determine whether a given scale is quantitative or qualitative in nature, and whether is should be considered to be objective or subjective. The article presents the "reaching, losing and regaining" scale (constructed by the authors to assess functional development and its changes in certain periods of time), the Munich Functional Development Diagnostics, and the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM). Special attention is given to the GMFM, its methods, evaluation of results, and application. A comparison of subjective and objective assessment of two cerebral palsy children is included.
Optimal Information Extraction of Laser Scanning Dataset by Scale-Adaptive Reduction
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zang, Y.; Yang, B.
2018-04-01
3D laser technology is widely used to collocate the surface information of object. For various applications, we need to extract a good perceptual quality point cloud from the scanned points. To solve the problem, most of existing methods extract important points based on a fixed scale. However, geometric features of 3D object come from various geometric scales. We propose a multi-scale construction method based on radial basis function. For each scale, important points are extracted from the point cloud based on their importance. We apply a perception metric Just-Noticeable-Difference to measure degradation of each geometric scale. Finally, scale-adaptive optimal information extraction is realized. Experiments are undertaken to evaluate the effective of the proposed method, suggesting a reliable solution for optimal information extraction of object.
2015-10-01
AIR COMMAND AND STAFF COLLEGE DISTANCE LEARNING AIR UNIVERSITY CYBER WARFARE GOVERNANCE: EVALUATION OF CURRENT INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS ON THE...order to prevent catastrophic second and third order effects. Rule 43 “prohibits means or methods of cyber warfare that indiscriminate by nature...Means and methods of cyber warfare are indiscriminate by nature if they cannot be: directed at a specific military objective, or limited in their
Crowdsourcing: a valid alternative to expert evaluation of robotic surgery skills.
Polin, Michael R; Siddiqui, Nazema Y; Comstock, Bryan A; Hesham, Helai; Brown, Casey; Lendvay, Thomas S; Martino, Martin A
2016-11-01
Robotic-assisted gynecologic surgery is common, but requires unique training. A validated assessment tool for evaluating trainees' robotic surgery skills is Robotic-Objective Structured Assessments of Technical Skills. We sought to assess whether crowdsourcing can be used as an alternative to expert surgical evaluators in scoring Robotic-Objective Structured Assessments of Technical Skills. The Robotic Training Network produced the Robotic-Objective Structured Assessments of Technical Skills, which evaluate trainees across 5 dry lab robotic surgical drills. Robotic-Objective Structured Assessments of Technical Skills were previously validated in a study of 105 participants, where dry lab surgical drills were recorded, de-identified, and scored by 3 expert surgeons using the Robotic-Objective Structured Assessments of Technical Skills checklist. Our methods-comparison study uses these previously obtained recordings and expert surgeon scores. Mean scores per participant from each drill were separated into quartiles. Crowdworkers were trained and calibrated on Robotic-Objective Structured Assessments of Technical Skills scoring using a representative recording of a skilled and novice surgeon. Following this, 3 recordings from each scoring quartile for each drill were randomly selected. Crowdworkers evaluated the randomly selected recordings using Robotic-Objective Structured Assessments of Technical Skills. Linear mixed effects models were used to derive mean crowdsourced ratings for each drill. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to assess the correlation between crowdsourced and expert surgeons' ratings. In all, 448 crowdworkers reviewed videos from 60 dry lab drills, and completed a total of 2517 Robotic-Objective Structured Assessments of Technical Skills assessments within 16 hours. Crowdsourced Robotic-Objective Structured Assessments of Technical Skills ratings were highly correlated with expert surgeon ratings across each of the 5 dry lab drills (r ranging from 0.75-0.91). Crowdsourced assessments of recorded dry lab surgical drills using a validated assessment tool are a rapid and suitable alternative to expert surgeon evaluation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Object-graphs for context-aware visual category discovery.
Lee, Yong Jae; Grauman, Kristen
2012-02-01
How can knowing about some categories help us to discover new ones in unlabeled images? Unsupervised visual category discovery is useful to mine for recurring objects without human supervision, but existing methods assume no prior information and thus tend to perform poorly for cluttered scenes with multiple objects. We propose to leverage knowledge about previously learned categories to enable more accurate discovery, and address challenges in estimating their familiarity in unsegmented, unlabeled images. We introduce two variants of a novel object-graph descriptor to encode the 2D and 3D spatial layout of object-level co-occurrence patterns relative to an unfamiliar region and show that by using them to model the interaction between an image’s known and unknown objects, we can better detect new visual categories. Rather than mine for all categories from scratch, our method identifies new objects while drawing on useful cues from familiar ones. We evaluate our approach on several benchmark data sets and demonstrate clear improvements in discovery over conventional purely appearance-based baselines.
Object Classification in Semi Structured Enviroment Using Forward-Looking Sonar
dos Santos, Matheus; Ribeiro, Pedro Otávio; Núñez, Pedro; Botelho, Silvia
2017-01-01
The submarine exploration using robots has been increasing in recent years. The automation of tasks such as monitoring, inspection, and underwater maintenance requires the understanding of the robot’s environment. The object recognition in the scene is becoming a critical issue for these systems. On this work, an underwater object classification pipeline applied in acoustic images acquired by Forward-Looking Sonar (FLS) are studied. The object segmentation combines thresholding, connected pixels searching and peak of intensity analyzing techniques. The object descriptor extract intensity and geometric features of the detected objects. A comparison between the Support Vector Machine, K-Nearest Neighbors, and Random Trees classifiers are presented. An open-source tool was developed to annotate and classify the objects and evaluate their classification performance. The proposed method efficiently segments and classifies the structures in the scene using a real dataset acquired by an underwater vehicle in a harbor area. Experimental results demonstrate the robustness and accuracy of the method described in this paper. PMID:28961163
An Evaluation of the Validity and Reliability of a Food Behavior Checklist Modified for Children
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Branscum, Paul; Sharma, Manoj; Kaye, Gail; Succop, Paul
2010-01-01
Objective: The objective of this study was to report the construct validity and internal consistency reliability of the Food Behavior Checklist modified for children (FBC-MC), with low-income, Youth Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)-eligible children. Methods: Using a cross-sectional research design, construct validity was…
Combining Primary Prevention and Risk Reduction Approaches in Sexual Assault Protection Programming
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Menning, Chadwick; Holtzman, Mellisa
2015-01-01
Objective: The object of this study is to extend prior evaluations of Elemental, a sexual assault protection program that combines primary prevention and risk reduction strategies within a single program. Participants and Methods: During 2012 and 2013, program group and control group students completed pretest, posttest, and 6-week and 6-month…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Rehberg, Robb S.; Gazzillo Diaz, Linda; Middlemas, David A.
2009-01-01
Objective: The objective of this study was to determine whether computer-based CPR training is comparable to traditional classroom training. Design and Setting: This study was quantitative in design. Data was gathered from a standardized examination and skill performance evaluation which yielded numerical scores. Subjects: The subjects were 64…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Hantson, Julie; Wang, Pan Pan; Grizenko-Vida, Michael; Ter-Stepanian, Marina; Harvey, William; Joober, Ridha; Grizenko, Natalie
2012-01-01
Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a 2-week therapeutic summer day camp for children with ADHD, which included a social skills training program and parent psychoeducation and training program. This was an open-label, nonrandomized Phase I Clinical Intervention Trial. Method: Parents completed the Weiss…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Langberg, Joshua M.; Molitor, Stephen J.; Oddo, Lauren E.; Eadeh, Hana-May; Dvorsky, Melissa R.; Becker, Stephen P.
2017-01-01
Objective: The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of multiple types of sleep problems in young adolescents with ADHD. Method: 262 adolescents comprehensively diagnosed with ADHD and their caregivers completed well-validated measures of sleep problems and daytime sleepiness. Participants also completed measures related…
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Hyder, Imran; Schaefer, Joseph; Justusson, Brian; Wanthal, Steve; Leone, Frank; Rose, Cheryl
2017-01-01
Reducing the timeline for development and certification for composite structures has been a long standing objective of the aerospace industry. This timeline can be further exacerbated when attempting to integrate new fiber-reinforced composite materials due to the large number of testing required at every level of design. computational progressive damage and failure analysis (PDFA) attempts to mitigate this effect; however, new PDFA methods have been slow to be adopted in industry since material model evaluation techniques have not been fully defined. This study presents an efficient evaluation framework which uses a piecewise verification and validation (V&V) approach for PDFA methods. Specifically, the framework is applied to evaluate PDFA research codes within the context of intralaminar damage. Methods are incrementally taken through various V&V exercises specifically tailored to study PDFA intralaminar damage modeling capability. Finally, methods are evaluated against a defined set of success criteria to highlight successes and limitations.
Dalum, Peter; Schaalma, Herman; Kok, Gerjo
2012-02-01
The objective of this project was to develop a theory- and evidence-based adolescent smoking cessation intervention using both new and existing materials. We used the Intervention Mapping framework for planning health promotion programmes. Based on a needs assessment, we identified important and changeable determinants of cessation behaviour, specified change objectives for the intervention programme, selected theoretical change methods for accomplishing intervention objectives and finally operationalized change methods into practical intervention strategies. We found that guided practice, modelling, self-monitoring, coping planning, consciousness raising, dramatic relief and decisional balance were suitable methods for adolescent smoking cessation. We selected behavioural journalism, guided practice and Motivational Interviewing as strategies in our intervention. Intervention Mapping helped us to develop as systematic adolescent smoking cessation intervention with a clear link between behavioural goals, theoretical methods, practical strategies and materials and with a strong focus on implementation and recruitment. This paper does not present evaluation data.
Characterization of Laser Cleaning of Artworks
Marczak, Jan; Koss, Andrzej; Targowski, Piotr; Góra, Michalina; Strzelec, Marek; Sarzyński, Antoni; Skrzeczanowski, Wojciech; Ostrowski, Roman; Rycyk, Antoni
2008-01-01
The main tasks of conservators of artworks and monuments are the estimation and analysis of damages (present condition), object conservation (cleaning process), and the protection of an object against further degradation. One of the physical methods that is becoming more and more popular for dirt removal is the laser cleaning method. This method is non-contact, selective, local, controlled, self-limiting, gives immediate feedback and preserves even the gentlest of relief - the trace of a paintbrush. Paper presents application of different, selected physical sensing methods to characterize condition of works of art as well as laser cleaning process itself. It includes, tested in our laboratories, optical surface measurements (e.g. colorimetry, scatterometry, interferometry), infrared thermography, optical coherent tomography and acoustic measurements for “on-line” evaluation of cleaning progress. Results of laser spectrometry analyses (LIBS, Raman) will illustrate identification and dating of objects superficial layers. PMID:27873884
Reches, A.; Kutcher, J.; Elbin, R. J.; Or-Ly, H.; Sadeh, B.; Greer, J.; McAllister, D. J.; Geva, A.; Kontos, A. P.
2017-01-01
ABSTRACT Background: The clinical diagnosis and management of patients with sport-related concussion is largely dependent on subjectively reported symptoms, clinical examinations, cognitive, balance, vestibular and oculomotor testing. Consequently, there is an unmet need for objective assessment tools that can identify the injury from a physiological perspective and add an important layer of information to the clinician’s decision-making process. Objective: The goal of the study was to evaluate the clinical utility of the EEG-based tool named Brain Network Activation (BNA) as a longitudinal assessment method of brain function in the management of young athletes with concussion. Methods: Athletes with concussion (n = 86) and age-matched controls (n = 81) were evaluated at four time points with symptom questionnaires and BNA. BNA scores were calculated by comparing functional networks to a previously defined normative reference brain network model to the same cognitive task. Results: Subjects above 16 years of age exhibited a significant decrease in BNA scores immediately following injury, as well as notable changes in functional network activity, relative to the controls. Three representative case studies of the tested population are discussed in detail, to demonstrate the clinical utility of BNA. Conclusion: The data support the utility of BNA to augment clinical examinations, symptoms and additional tests by providing an effective method for evaluating objective electrophysiological changes associated with sport-related concussions. PMID:28055228
A methodology for decisionmaking in project evaluation in land management planning
A. Weintraub
1978-01-01
In order to evaluate alternative plans, wildland management planners must consider many objectives, such as timber production, recreational use, and community stability. The method presented utilizes the type of qualitative and intuitive information widely available to wildland management planners, and structures this information into a format suitable for...
Truancy Interventions: A Review of the Research Literature
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Sutphen, Richard D.; Ford, Janet P.; Flaherty, Chris
2010-01-01
Objectives: This article presents a systematic review of the literature on evaluative studies of truancy interventions. Method: Included studies evaluating truancy interventions appearing in peer-reviewed academic journals from 1990 to 2007. Findings: In total, 16 studies were assessed. Eight studies used group comparison designs and eight studies…
ASSESSMENT OF VAPOR INTRUSION USING INDOOR AND SUB-SLAB AIR SAMPLING
The objective of this investigation was to develop a method for evaluating vapor intrusion using indoor and sub-slab air measurement and at the same time directly assist EPA’s New England Regional Office in evaluating vapor intrusion in 15 homes and one business near the former R...
Evaluation of the accuracy of GPS as a method of locating traffic collisions.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2004-06-01
The objective of this study were to determine the accuracy of GPS units as a traffic crash location tool, evaluate the accuracy of the location data obtained using the GPS units, and determine the largest sources of any errors found. : The analysis s...
Oasis Connections: Results from an Evaluation Study
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Czaja, Sara J.; Lee, Chin Chin; Branham, Janice; Remis, Peggy
2012-01-01
Purpose of the Study: The objectives of this study were to evaluate a community-based basic computer and Internet training program designed for older adults, provide recommendations for program refinement, and gather preliminary information on program sustainability. Design and Methods: The program was developed by the OASIS Institute, a nonprofit…
Diet and Colorectal Cancer Risk: Evaluation of a Nutrition Education Leaflet
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Dyer, K. J.; Fearon, K. C. H.; Buckner, K.; Richardson, R. A.
2005-01-01
Objective: To evaluate the effect of a needs-based, nutrition education leaflet on nutritional knowledge. Design: Comparison of nutritional knowledge levels before and after exposure to a nutrition education leaflet. Setting: A regional colorectal out-patient clinic in Edinburgh. Method: A nutrition education leaflet, based on an earlier…
Psychometric Evaluation of the Simplified Chinese Version of Flourishing Scale
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Tang, Xiaoqing; Duan, Wenjie; Wang, Zhizhang; Liu, Tianyuan
2016-01-01
Objectives: The Flourishing Scale (FS) was developed to measure psychological well-being from the eudaimonic perspective, highlighting the flourishing of human functioning. This article evaluated the psychometric characteristics of the simplified Chinese version of FS among a Chinese community population. Method: A total of 433 participants from…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Lewy, Colleen; Sells, C. Wayne; Gilhooly, Jennifer; McKelvey, Robert
2009-01-01
Objective: The authors aim to determine whether pediatric residents used DSM-IV criteria to diagnose major depressive disorder and how this related to residents' confidence in diagnosis and treatment skills before and after clinical training with depressed adolescents. Methods: Pediatric residents evaluated two different standardized patients…
Marital Distress and Mental Health Care Service Utilization
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Schonbrun, Yael Chatav; Whisman, Mark A.
2010-01-01
Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the association between marital distress and mental health service utilization in a population-based sample of men and women (N = 1,601). Method: The association between marital distress and mental health care service utilization was evaluated for overall mental health service utilization and for…
Do Social Workers Make Better Child Welfare Workers than Non-Social Workers?
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Perry, Robin E.
2006-01-01
Objective: To empirically examine whether the educational background of child welfare workers in Florida impacts on performance evaluations of their work. Method: A proportionate, stratified random sample of supervisor and peer evaluations of child protective investigators and child protective service workers is conducted. ANOVA procedures are…
Parents Questioning Immunization: Evaluation of an Intervention
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Gust, Deborah A.; Kennedy, Allison; Weber, Deanne; Evans, Geoff; Kong, Yuan; Salmon, Daniel
2009-01-01
Objectives: To compare attitudes of parents who filed or considered filing an exemption to school immunization requirements and/or would not have their child immunized if it were not required by law (cases) to controls. To develop and evaluate a brochure intervention for parents considering an exemption. Methods: Interviews, focus groups, mailed…
Behavioral Evaluation of Preference for Game-Based Teaching Procedures
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Marques, Leonardo Brandão; das Graças de Souza, Deisy
2013-01-01
Recent research has evaluated the motivational functions of educational games and its potential role for the teaching of reading skills. Educational games must maintain their educational function retaining clear definitions of the teaching objectives and instructional methods. Reading skills can be broken down into more basic behavioral units.…
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Billica, Roger; Krupa, Debra T.; Stonestreet, Robert; Kizzee, Victor D.
1991-01-01
The purpose is to investigate and demonstrate equipment and techniques proposed for minor surgery on Space Station Freedom (SSF). The objectives are: (1) to test and evaluate methods of surgical instrument packaging and deployment; (2) to test and evaluate methods of surgical site preparation and draping; (3) to evaluate techniques of sterile procedure and maintaining sterile field; (4) to evaluate methods of trash management during medical/surgical procedures; and (4) to gain experience in techniques for performing surgery in microgravity. A KC-135 parabolic flight test was performed on March 30, 1990 with the goal of investigating and demonstrating surgical equipment and techniques under consideration for use on SSF. The flight followed the standard 40 parabola profile with 20 to 25 seconds of near-zero gravity in each parabola.
Diameter effect on stress-wave evaluation of modulus of elasticity of logs
Xiping Wang; Robert J. Ross; Brian K. Brashaw; John Punches; John R. Erickson; John W. Forsman; Roy E. Pellerin
2004-01-01
Recent studies on nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of logs have shown that a longitudinal stress-wave method can be used to nondestructively evaluate the modulus of elasticity (MOE) of logs. A strong relationship has been found between stress-wave MOE and static MOE of logs, but a significant deviation was observed between stress-wave and static values. The objective of...
Diameter effect on stress-wave evaluation of modulus of elasticity of logs
Xiping Wang; Robert J. Ross; Brian K. Brashaw; John R. Erickson; John W. Forsman; Roy Pellerin
2003-01-01
Recent studies on nondestructive evaluation (NDE) of logs have shown that a longitudinal stress-wave method can be used to nondestructively evaluate the modulus of elasticity (MOE) of logs. A strong relationship has been found between stress-wave MOE and static MOE of logs, but a significant deviation was observed between stress-wave and static values. The objective of...
Qualitative Evaluation of Emotional Intelligence In-Service Program for Secondary School Teachers
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Fer, Seval
2004-01-01
This paper is an attempt to evaluate the Emotional Intelligence (EQ) In-Service Program on the basis of experiences of 20 secondary school teachers who attended the program in a private school in Turkey. A phenomenological approach, with a focus group method was used. The first objective of this study was to evaluate EQ program on the basis of…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Tobias, Earole; And Others
Designed for faculty members at Beaufort Technical College (BTC) in South Carolina, this handbook describes the college's faculty evaluation process and procedures. The first sections of the handbook explain the rationale and method for the faculty evaluation process, state the purposes and objectives of the system, and offer a model which breaks…
Evaluating Journal Quality: Is the H-Index a Better Measure than Impact Factors?
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Hodge, David R.; Lacasse, Jeffrey R.
2011-01-01
Objectives: This study evaluates the utility of a new measure--the h-index--that may provide a more valid approach to evaluating journal quality in the social work profession. Method: H-index values are compared with Thomson ISI 5-year impact factors and expert opinion. Results: As hypothesized, the h-index correlates highly with ISI 5-year impact…
Math and Science Academy: Year 4 Evaluation Report. CSE Technical Report 648
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Osmundson, Ellen; Herman, Joan
2005-01-01
This evaluation report summarizes Year 4 of the Math and Science Academy (MSA), an initiative of the Northern New Mexico Council on Excellence in Education (NNMCEE). The report begins with an overview of the project and its objectives, and then outlines the research questions and methods used to carry out the evaluation. Findings from the Year 4…
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Pagliarulo, V., E-mail: v.pagliarulo@isasi.cnr.it; Ferraro, P.; Lopresto, V.
2016-06-28
The aim of this paper is to investigate the ability of two different interferometric NDT techniques to detect and evaluate barely visible impact damage on composite laminates. The interferometric techniques allow to investigate large and complex structures. Electronic Speckle Pattern Interferometry (ESPI) works through real-time surface illumination by visible laser (i.e. 532 nm) and the range and the accuracy are related to the wavelength. While the ESPI works with the “classic” holographic configuration, that is reference beam and object beam, the Shearography uses the object image itself as reference: two object images are overlapped creating a shear image. This makes themore » method much less sensitive to external vibrations and noise but with one difference, it measures the first derivative of the displacement. In this work, different specimens at different impact energies have been investigated by means of both methods. The delaminated areas have been estimated and compared.« less
Performance analysis and evaluation of direct phase measuring deflectometry
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Zhao, Ping; Gao, Nan; Zhang, Zonghua; Gao, Feng; Jiang, Xiangqian
2018-04-01
Three-dimensional (3D) shape measurement of specular objects plays an important role in intelligent manufacturing applications. Phase measuring deflectometry (PMD)-based methods are widely used to obtain the 3D shapes of specular surfaces because they offer the advantages of a large dynamic range, high measurement accuracy, full-field and noncontact operation, and automatic data processing. To enable measurement of specular objects with discontinuous and/or isolated surfaces, a direct PMD (DPMD) method has been developed to build a direct relationship between phase and depth. In this paper, a new virtual measurement system is presented and is used to optimize the system parameters and evaluate the system's performance in DPMD applications. Four system parameters are analyzed to obtain accurate measurement results. Experiments are performed using simulated and actual data and the results confirm the effects of these four parameters on the measurement results. Researchers can therefore select suitable system parameters for actual DPMD (including PMD) measurement systems to obtain the 3D shapes of specular objects with high accuracy.
Robotics and Automation for Flight Deck Aircraft Servicing
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Chesser, J.B.; Draper, J.V.; Pin, F.G.
1999-03-01
One of the missions of the Future Aircraft Carriers Program is to investigate methods that would improve aircraft turnaround servicing activities on carrier decks. The major objectives and criteria for evaluating alternative aircraft servicing methods are to reduce workload requirements, turnaround times (TAT), and life-cycle costs (LCC). Technologies in the field of Robotics and Automation (R and A) have the potential to significantly contribute to these objectives. The objective of this study was to investigate aircraft servicing functions on carrier decks which would offer the potentially most significant payoff if improved by various R and A technologies. Improvement in thismore » case means reducing workload, time and LCC. This objective was accomplished using a ''bottom-up'' formalized approach as described in the following.« less
Roles and methods of performance evaluation of hospital academic leadership.
Zhou, Ying; Yuan, Huikang; Li, Yang; Zhao, Xia; Yi, Lihua
2016-01-01
The rapidly advancing implementation of public hospital reform urgently requires the identification and classification of a pool of exceptional medical specialists, corresponding with incentives to attract and retain them, providing a nucleus of distinguished expertise to ensure public hospital preeminence. This paper examines the significance of academic leadership, from a strategic management perspective, including various tools, methods and mechanisms used in the theory and practice of performance evaluation, and employed in the selection, training and appointment of academic leaders. Objective methods of assessing leadership performance are also provided for reference.
Quantitative method of medication system interface evaluation.
Pingenot, Alleene Anne; Shanteau, James; Pingenot, James D F
2007-01-01
The objective of this study was to develop a quantitative method of evaluating the user interface for medication system software. A detailed task analysis provided a description of user goals and essential activity. A structural fault analysis was used to develop a detailed description of the system interface. Nurses experienced with use of the system under evaluation provided estimates of failure rates for each point in this simplified fault tree. Means of estimated failure rates provided quantitative data for fault analysis. Authors note that, although failures of steps in the program were frequent, participants reported numerous methods of working around these failures so that overall system failure was rare. However, frequent process failure can affect the time required for processing medications, making a system inefficient. This method of interface analysis, called Software Efficiency Evaluation and Fault Identification Method, provides quantitative information with which prototypes can be compared and problems within an interface identified.
Using a fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method to determine product usability: A test case
Zhou, Ronggang; Chan, Alan H. S.
2016-01-01
BACKGROUND: In order to take into account the inherent uncertainties during product usability evaluation, Zhou and Chan [1] proposed a comprehensive method of usability evaluation for products by combining the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy evaluation methods for synthesizing performance data and subjective response data. This method was designed to provide an integrated framework combining the inevitable vague judgments from the multiple stages of the product evaluation process. OBJECTIVE AND METHODS: In order to illustrate the effectiveness of the model, this study used a summative usability test case to assess the application and strength of the general fuzzy usability framework. To test the proposed fuzzy usability evaluation framework [1], a standard summative usability test was conducted to benchmark the overall usability of a specific network management software. Based on the test data, the fuzzy method was applied to incorporate both the usability scores and uncertainties involved in the multiple components of the evaluation. Then, with Monte Carlo simulation procedures, confidence intervals were used to compare the reliabilities among the fuzzy approach and two typical conventional methods combining metrics based on percentages. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: This case study showed that the fuzzy evaluation technique can be applied successfully for combining summative usability testing data to achieve an overall usability quality for the network software evaluated. Greater differences of confidence interval widths between the method of averaging equally percentage and weighted evaluation method, including the method of weighted percentage averages, verified the strength of the fuzzy method. PMID:28035942
Virdi, Mandeep S; Sood, Meenakshi
2011-11-01
This study conducted at the PDM Dental College and Research Institute, Haryana, India, had the purpose of developing a teaching method based upon a five-step method for teaching clinical skills to students proposed by the American College of Surgeons. This five-step teaching method was used to place fissure sealants as an initial procedure by dental students in clinics. The sealant retention was used as an objective evaluation of the skill learnt by the students. The sealant retention was 92 percent at six- and twelve-month evaluations and 90 percent at the eighteen-month evaluation. These results indicate that simple methods can be devised for teaching clinical skills and achieve high success rates in clinical procedures requiring multiple steps.
Hologram repositioning by an interferometric technique.
Soares, O D
1979-11-15
An interferometric technique for hologram repositioning is described where the hologram is compared with the interference pattern of the reference and object waves. Analytical expressions to evaluate the accuracy of the repositioning are presented for the method. Two applications of the method in metrology for micromovement measurements are proposed.
COMMUNITY-ORIENTED DESIGN AND EVALUATION PROCESS FOR SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE
We met our first objective by completing the physical infrastructure of the La Fortuna-Tule water and sanitation project using the CODE-PSI method. This physical component of the project was important in providing a real, relevant, community-scale test case for the methods ...
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Blanchette, Judith
2012-01-01
The purpose of this empirical study was to determine the extent to which three different objective analytical methods--sequence analysis, surface cohesion analysis, and lexical cohesion analysis--can most accurately identify specific characteristics of online interaction. Statistically significant differences were found in all points of…
Reference-free ground truth metric for metal artifact evaluation in CT images.
Kratz, Bärbel; Ens, Svitlana; Müller, Jan; Buzug, Thorsten M
2011-07-01
In computed tomography (CT), metal objects in the region of interest introduce data inconsistencies during acquisition. Reconstructing these data results in an image with star shaped artifacts induced by the metal inconsistencies. To enhance image quality, the influence of the metal objects can be reduced by different metal artifact reduction (MAR) strategies. For an adequate evaluation of new MAR approaches a ground truth reference data set is needed. In technical evaluations, where phantoms can be measured with and without metal inserts, ground truth data can easily be obtained by a second reference data acquisition. Obviously, this is not possible for clinical data. Here, an alternative evaluation method is presented without the need of an additionally acquired reference data set. The proposed metric is based on an inherent ground truth for metal artifacts as well as MAR methods comparison, where no reference information in terms of a second acquisition is needed. The method is based on the forward projection of a reconstructed image, which is compared to the actually measured projection data. The new evaluation technique is performed on phantom and on clinical CT data with and without MAR. The metric results are then compared with methods using a reference data set as well as an expert-based classification. It is shown that the new approach is an adequate quantification technique for artifact strength in reconstructed metal or MAR CT images. The presented method works solely on the original projection data itself, which yields some advantages compared to distance measures in image domain using two data sets. Beside this, no parameters have to be manually chosen. The new metric is a useful evaluation alternative when no reference data are available.
Multiscale Medical Image Fusion in Wavelet Domain
Khare, Ashish
2013-01-01
Wavelet transforms have emerged as a powerful tool in image fusion. However, the study and analysis of medical image fusion is still a challenging area of research. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a multiscale fusion of multimodal medical images in wavelet domain. Fusion of medical images has been performed at multiple scales varying from minimum to maximum level using maximum selection rule which provides more flexibility and choice to select the relevant fused images. The experimental analysis of the proposed method has been performed with several sets of medical images. Fusion results have been evaluated subjectively and objectively with existing state-of-the-art fusion methods which include several pyramid- and wavelet-transform-based fusion methods and principal component analysis (PCA) fusion method. The comparative analysis of the fusion results has been performed with edge strength (Q), mutual information (MI), entropy (E), standard deviation (SD), blind structural similarity index metric (BSSIM), spatial frequency (SF), and average gradient (AG) metrics. The combined subjective and objective evaluations of the proposed fusion method at multiple scales showed the effectiveness and goodness of the proposed approach. PMID:24453868
Song, Misoon; Choi, Suyoung; Kim, Se-An; Seo, Kyoungsan; Lee, Soo Jin
2015-01-01
Development of behavior theory-based health promotion programs is encouraged with the paradigm shift from contents to behavior outcomes. This article describes the development process of the diabetes self-management program for older Koreans (DSME-OK) using intervention mapping (IM) protocol. The IM protocol includes needs assessment, defining goals and objectives, identifying theory and determinants, developing a matrix to form change objectives, selecting strategies and methods, structuring the program, and planning for evaluation and pilot testing. The DSME-OK adopted seven behavior objectives developed by the American Association of Diabetes Educators as behavioral outcomes. The program applied an information-motivation-behavioral skills model, and interventions were targeted to 3 determinants to change health behaviors. Specific methods were selected to achieve each objective guided by IM protocol. As the final step, program evaluation was planned including a pilot test. The DSME-OK was structured as the 3 determinants of the IMB model were intervened to achieve behavior objectives in each session. The program has 12 weekly 90-min sessions tailored for older adults. Using the IM protocol in developing a theory-based self-management program was beneficial in terms of providing a systematic guide to developing theory-based and behavior outcome-focused health education programs.
Polychromatic wave-optics models for image-plane speckle. 2. Unresolved objects.
Van Zandt, Noah R; Spencer, Mark F; Steinbock, Michael J; Anderson, Brian M; Hyde, Milo W; Fiorino, Steven T
2018-05-20
Polychromatic laser light can reduce speckle noise in many wavefront-sensing and imaging applications. To help quantify the achievable reduction in speckle noise, this study investigates the accuracy of three polychromatic wave-optics models under the specific conditions of an unresolved object. Because existing theory assumes a well-resolved object, laboratory experiments are used to evaluate model accuracy. The three models use Monte-Carlo averaging, depth slicing, and spectral slicing, respectively, to simulate the laser-object interaction. The experiments involve spoiling the temporal coherence of laser light via a fiber-based, electro-optic modulator. After the light scatters off of the rough object, speckle statistics are measured. The Monte-Carlo method is found to be highly inaccurate, while depth-slicing error peaks at 7.8% but is generally much lower in comparison. The spectral-slicing method is the most accurate, always producing results within the error bounds of the experiment.
Deccache, A
1997-06-01
Health promotion and health education have often been limited to evaluation of the effectiveness of actions and programmes. However, since 1996 with the Third European Conference on Health Promotion and Education Effectiveness, many researchers have become interested in "quality assessment" and new ways of thinking have emerged. Quality assurance is a concept and activity developed in industry with the objective of increasing production efficiency. There are two distinct approaches: External Standard Inspection (ESI) and Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI). ESI involves establishing criteria of quality, evaluating them and improving whatever needs improvement. CQI views the activity or service as a process and includes the quality assessment as part of the process. This article attempts to answer the questions of whether these methods are sufficient and suitable for operationalising the concepts of evaluation, effectiveness and quality in health promotion and education, whether it is necessary to complement them with other methods, and whether the ESI approach is appropriate. The first section of the article explains that health promotion is based on various paradigms from epidemiology to psychology and anthropology. Many authors warn against the exclusive use of public health disciplines for understanding, implementing and evaluating health promotion. The author argues that in practice, health promotion: -integrates preventive actions with those aiming to maintain and improve health, a characteristic which widens the actions of health promotion from those of classic public health which include essentially an epidemiological or "risk" focus; -aims to replace vertical approaches to prevention with a global approach based on educational sciences; -involves a community approach which includes the individual in a "central position of power" as much in the definition of needs as in the evaluation of services; -includes the participation and socio-political actions which necessitate the use of varied and specific instruments for action and evaluation. With the choice of health promotion ideology, there exist corresponding theories, concepts of quality, and therefore methods and techniques that differ from those used until now. The educational sciences have led to a widening of the definition of process to include both "throughput and input", which has meant that the methods of needs analysis, objective and priority setting and project development in health promotion have become objects of quality assessment. Also, the modes of action and interaction among actors are included, which has led to evaluation of ethical and ideological aspects of projects. The second section of the article discusses quality assessment versus evaluation of effectiveness. Different paradigms of evaluation such as the public health approach based on the measurement of (epidemiological) effectiveness, social marketing and communication, and the anthropological approach are briefly discussed, pointing out that there are many approaches which can both complement and contradict one another. The author explains the difference between impact (the intermediate effects, direct or indirect, planned or not planned, changes in practical or theoretical knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes) and results (final effects of mid to long term changes such as changes in morbidity, mortality, or access to services or cost of health care). He argues that by being too concerned with results of programmes, we have often ignored the issue of impact. Also, by limiting ourselves to evaluating effectiveness (i.e. that the expected effects were obtained), we ignore other possible unexpected, unplanned and positive and negative secondary effects. There are therefore many reasons to: -evaluate all possible effects rather than only those lined to objectives; -evaluate the entire process rather than only the resources, procedures and costs; -evaluate the impact rather than results; -evalu
Digital learning objects in nursing consultation: technology assessment by undergraduate students.
Silveira, DeniseTolfo; Catalan, Vanessa Menezes; Neutzling, Agnes Ludwig; Martinato, Luísa Helena Machado
2010-01-01
This study followed the teaching-learning process about the nursing consultation, based on digital learning objects developed through the active Problem Based Learning method. The goals were to evaluate the digital learning objects about nursing consultation, develop cognitive skills on the subject using problem based learning and identify the students' opinions on the use of technology. This is an exploratory and descriptive study with a quantitative approach. The sample consisted of 71 students in the sixth period of the nursing program at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul. The data was collected through a questionnaire to evaluate the learning objects. The results showed positive agreement (58%) on the content, usability and didactics of the proposed computer-mediated activity regarding the nursing consultation. The application of materials to the students is considered positive.
A multiple-point spatially weighted k-NN method for object-based classification
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Tang, Yunwei; Jing, Linhai; Li, Hui; Atkinson, Peter M.
2016-10-01
Object-based classification, commonly referred to as object-based image analysis (OBIA), is now commonly regarded as able to produce more appealing classification maps, often of greater accuracy, than pixel-based classification and its application is now widespread. Therefore, improvement of OBIA using spatial techniques is of great interest. In this paper, multiple-point statistics (MPS) is proposed for object-based classification enhancement in the form of a new multiple-point k-nearest neighbour (k-NN) classification method (MPk-NN). The proposed method first utilises a training image derived from a pre-classified map to characterise the spatial correlation between multiple points of land cover classes. The MPS borrows spatial structures from other parts of the training image, and then incorporates this spatial information, in the form of multiple-point probabilities, into the k-NN classifier. Two satellite sensor images with a fine spatial resolution were selected to evaluate the new method. One is an IKONOS image of the Beijing urban area and the other is a WorldView-2 image of the Wolong mountainous area, in China. The images were object-based classified using the MPk-NN method and several alternatives, including the k-NN, the geostatistically weighted k-NN, the Bayesian method, the decision tree classifier (DTC), and the support vector machine classifier (SVM). It was demonstrated that the new spatial weighting based on MPS can achieve greater classification accuracy relative to the alternatives and it is, thus, recommended as appropriate for object-based classification.
Holistic rubric vs. analytic rubric for measuring clinical performance levels in medical students.
Yune, So Jung; Lee, Sang Yeoup; Im, Sun Ju; Kam, Bee Sung; Baek, Sun Yong
2018-06-05
Task-specific checklists, holistic rubrics, and analytic rubrics are often used for performance assessments. We examined what factors evaluators consider important in holistic scoring of clinical performance assessment, and compared the usefulness of applying holistic and analytic rubrics respectively, and analytic rubrics in addition to task-specific checklists based on traditional standards. We compared the usefulness of a holistic rubric versus an analytic rubric in effectively measuring the clinical skill performances of 126 third-year medical students who participated in a clinical performance assessment conducted by Pusan National University School of Medicine. We conducted a questionnaire survey of 37 evaluators who used all three evaluation methods-holistic rubric, analytic rubric, and task-specific checklist-for each student. The relationship between the scores on the three evaluation methods was analyzed using Pearson's correlation. Inter-rater agreement was analyzed by Kappa index. The effect of holistic and analytic rubric scores on the task-specific checklist score was analyzed using multiple regression analysis. Evaluators perceived accuracy and proficiency to be major factors in objective structured clinical examinations evaluation, and history taking and physical examination to be major factors in clinical performance examinations evaluation. Holistic rubric scores were highly related to the scores of the task-specific checklist and analytic rubric. Relatively low agreement was found in clinical performance examinations compared to objective structured clinical examinations. Meanwhile, the holistic and analytic rubric scores explained 59.1% of the task-specific checklist score in objective structured clinical examinations and 51.6% in clinical performance examinations. The results show the usefulness of holistic and analytic rubrics in clinical performance assessment, which can be used in conjunction with task-specific checklists for more efficient evaluation.
A robust collagen scoring method for human liver fibrosis by second harmonic microscopy.
Guilbert, Thomas; Odin, Christophe; Le Grand, Yann; Gailhouste, Luc; Turlin, Bruno; Ezan, Frédérick; Désille, Yoann; Baffet, Georges; Guyader, Dominique
2010-12-06
Second Harmonic Generation (SHG) microscopy offers the opportunity to image collagen of type I without staining. We recently showed that a simple scoring method, based on SHG images of histological human liver biopsies, correlates well with the Metavir assessment of fibrosis level (Gailhouste et al., J. Hepatol., 2010). In this article, we present a detailed study of this new scoring method with two different objective lenses. By using measurements of the objectives point spread functions and of the photomultiplier gain, and a simple model of the SHG intensity, we show that our scoring method, applied to human liver biopsies, is robust to the objective's numerical aperture (NA) for low NA, the choice of the reference sample and laser power, and the spatial sampling rate. The simplicity and robustness of our collagen scoring method may open new opportunities in the quantification of collagen content in different organs, which is of main importance in providing diagnostic information and evaluation of therapeutic efficiency.
Herrmann-Lingen, Christoph; Brunner, Edgar; Hildenbrand, Sibylle; Loew, Thomas H.; Raupach, Tobias; Spies, Claudia; Treede, Rolf-Detlef; Vahl, Christian-Friedrich; Wenz, Hans-Jürgen
2014-01-01
Objective: The evaluation of medical research performance is a key prerequisite for the systematic advancement of medical faculties, research foci, academic departments, and individual scientists’ careers. However, it is often based on vaguely defined aims and questionable methods and can thereby lead to unwanted regulatory effects. The current paper aims at defining the position of German academic medicine toward the aims, methods, and consequences of its evaluation. Methods: During the Berlin Forum of the Association of the Scientific Medical Societies in Germany (AWMF) held on 18 October 2013, international experts presented data on methods for evaluating medical research performance. Subsequent discussions among representatives of relevant scientific organizations and within three ad-hoc writing groups led to a first draft of this article. Further discussions within the AWMF Committee for Evaluation of Performance in Research and Teaching and the AWMF Executive Board resulted in the final consented version presented here. Results: The AWMF recommends modifications to the current system of evaluating medical research performance. Evaluations should follow clearly defined and communicated aims and consist of both summative and formative components. Informed peer reviews are valuable but feasible in longer time intervals only. They can be complemented by objective indicators. However, the Journal Impact Factor is not an appropriate measure for evaluating individual publications or their authors. The scientific “impact” rather requires multidimensional evaluation. Indicators of potential relevance in this context may include, e.g., normalized citation rates of scientific publications, other forms of reception by the scientific community and the public, and activities in scientific organizations, research synthesis and science communication. In addition, differentiated recommendations are made for evaluating the acquisition of third-party funds and the promotion of junior scientists. Conclusions: With the explicit recommendations presented in the current position paper, the AWMF suggests enhancements to the practice of evaluating medical research performance by faculties, ministries and research funding organizations. PMID:24971044
Visual saliency detection based on modeling the spatial Gaussianity
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ju, Hongbin
2015-04-01
In this paper, a novel salient object detection method based on modeling the spatial anomalies is presented. The proposed framework is inspired by the biological mechanism that human eyes are sensitive to the unusual and anomalous objects among complex background. It is supposed that a natural image can be seen as a combination of some similar or dissimilar basic patches, and there is a direct relationship between its saliency and anomaly. Some patches share high degree of similarity and have a vast number of quantity. They usually make up the background of an image. On the other hand, some patches present strong rarity and specificity. We name these patches "anomalies". Generally, anomalous patch is a reflection of the edge or some special colors and textures in an image, and these pattern cannot be well "explained" by their surroundings. Human eyes show great interests in these anomalous patterns, and will automatically pick out the anomalous parts of an image as the salient regions. To better evaluate the anomaly degree of the basic patches and exploit their nonlinear statistical characteristics, a multivariate Gaussian distribution saliency evaluation model is proposed. In this way, objects with anomalous patterns usually appear as the outliers in the Gaussian distribution, and we identify these anomalous objects as salient ones. Experiments are conducted on the well-known MSRA saliency detection dataset. Compared with other recent developed visual saliency detection methods, our method suggests significant advantages.
Evaluation of Electrochemical Methods for Electrolyte Characterization
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Heidersbach, Robert H.
2001-01-01
This report documents summer research efforts in an attempt to develop an electrochemical method of characterizing electrolytes. The ultimate objective of the characterization would be to determine the composition and corrosivity of Martian soil. Results are presented using potentiodynamic scans, Tafel extrapolations, and resistivity tests in a variety of water-based electrolytes.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2011-01-01
The objective of network screening should ideally be to not only identify sites for safety : investigation but also to prioritize those sites efficiently. Using roadway, intersection, and : collision data from California, this study compared the perf...
Evaluating the Impact of Teaching Methods on Student Motivation
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Cudney, Elizabeth A.; Ezzell, Julie M.
2017-01-01
Educational institutions are consistently looking for ways to prepare students for the competitive workforce. Various methods have been utilized to interpret human differences, such as learning preferences and motivation, in order to make the curriculum more valuable. The objective of this research was to determine the impact of new teaching…
Evaluation of using a depth sensor to estimate the weight of finishing pigs
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
A method of continuously monitoring weight would aid producers by ensuring all pigs are healthy (gaining weight) and increasing precision of marketing. Therefore, the objective was to develop an electronic method of obtaining pig weights through depth images. Seven hundred and seventy-two images and...
One step linear reconstruction method for continuous wave diffuse optical tomography
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ukhrowiyah, N.; Yasin, M.
2017-09-01
The method one step linear reconstruction method for continuous wave diffuse optical tomography is proposed and demonstrated for polyvinyl chloride based material and breast phantom. Approximation which used in this method is selecting regulation coefficient and evaluating the difference between two states that corresponding to the data acquired without and with a change in optical properties. This method is used to recovery of optical parameters from measured boundary data of light propagation in the object. The research is demonstrated by simulation and experimental data. Numerical object is used to produce simulation data. Chloride based material and breast phantom sample is used to produce experimental data. Comparisons of results between experiment and simulation data are conducted to validate the proposed method. The results of the reconstruction image which is produced by the one step linear reconstruction method show that the image reconstruction almost same as the original object. This approach provides a means of imaging that is sensitive to changes in optical properties, which may be particularly useful for functional imaging used continuous wave diffuse optical tomography of early diagnosis of breast cancer.
Fuzzy Logic Approaches to Multi-Objective Decision-Making in Aerospace Applications
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Hardy, Terry L.
1994-01-01
Fuzzy logic allows for the quantitative representation of multi-objective decision-making problems which have vague or fuzzy objectives and parameters. As such, fuzzy logic approaches are well-suited to situations where alternatives must be assessed by using criteria that are subjective and of unequal importance. This paper presents an overview of fuzzy logic and provides sample applications from the aerospace industry. Applications include an evaluation of vendor proposals, an analysis of future space vehicle options, and the selection of a future space propulsion system. On the basis of the results provided in this study, fuzzy logic provides a unique perspective on the decision-making process, allowing the evaluator to assess the degree to which each option meets the evaluation criteria. Future decision-making should take full advantage of fuzzy logic methods to complement existing approaches in the selection of alternatives.
Saw, Anna E; Main, Luana C; Gastin, Paul B
2016-01-01
Background Monitoring athlete well-being is essential to guide training and to detect any progression towards negative health outcomes and associated poor performance. Objective (performance, physiological, biochemical) and subjective measures are all options for athlete monitoring. Objective We systematically reviewed objective and subjective measures of athlete well-being. Objective measures, including those taken at rest (eg, blood markers, heart rate) and during exercise (eg, oxygen consumption, heart rate response), were compared against subjective measures (eg, mood, perceived stress). All measures were also evaluated for their response to acute and chronic training load. Methods The databases Academic search complete, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus and PubMed were searched in May 2014. Fifty-six original studies reported concurrent subjective and objective measures of athlete well-being. The quality and strength of findings of each study were evaluated to determine overall levels of evidence. Results Subjective and objective measures of athlete well-being generally did not correlate. Subjective measures reflected acute and chronic training loads with superior sensitivity and consistency than objective measures. Subjective well-being was typically impaired with an acute increase in training load, and also with chronic training, while an acute decrease in training load improved subjective well-being. Summary This review provides further support for practitioners to use subjective measures to monitor changes in athlete well-being in response to training. Subjective measures may stand alone, or be incorporated into a mixed methods approach to athlete monitoring, as is current practice in many sport settings. PMID:26423706
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Bliss, Leonard B.; Tashakkori, Abbas
This paper discusses the objectives that would be appropriate for statistics classes for students who are not majoring in statistics, evaluation, or quantitative research design. These "non-majors" should be able to choose appropriate analytical methods for specific sets of data based on the research question and the nature of the data, and they…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Counts, Jacqueline M.; Buffington, Elenor S.; Chang-Rios, Karin; Rasmussen, Heather N.; Preacher, Kristopher J.
2010-01-01
Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the internal structure of a self-report measure of multiple family-level protective factors against abuse and neglect and explore the relationship of this instrument to other measures of child maltreatment. Methods: For the exploratory factor analysis, 11 agencies from 4 states administered…
Pain Perception: Computerized versus Traditional Local Anesthesia in Pediatric Patients.
Mittal, M; Kumar, A; Srivastava, D; Sharma, P; Sharma, S
2015-01-01
Local anesthetic injection is one of the most anxiety- provoking procedure for both children and adult patients in dentistry. A computerized system for slow delivery of local anesthetic has been developed as a possible solution to reduce the pain related to the local anesthetic injection. The present study was conducted to evaluate and compare pain perception rates in pediatric patients with computerized system and traditional methods, both objectively and subjectively. It was a randomized controlled study in one hundred children aged 8-12 years in healthy physical and mental state, assessed as being cooperative, requiring extraction of maxillary primary molars. Children were divided into two groups by random sampling - Group A received buccal and palatal infiltration injection using Wand, while Group B received buccal and palatal infiltration using traditional syringe. Visual Analog scale (VAS) was used for subjective evaluation of pain perception by patient. Sound, Eye, Motor (SEM) scale was used as an objective method where sound, eye and motor reactions of patient were observed and heart rate measurement using pulse oximeter was used as the physiological parameter for objective evaluation. Patients experienced significantly less pain of injection with the computerized method during palatal infiltration, while less pain was not statistically significant during buccal infiltration. Heart rate increased during both buccal and palatal infiltration in traditional and computerized local anesthesia, but difference between traditional and computerized method was not statistically significant. It was concluded that pain perception was significantly more during traditional palatal infiltration injection as compared to computerized palatal infiltration, while there was no difference in pain perception during buccal infiltration in both the groups.
Providing a Science Base for the Evaluation of Tobacco Products
Berman, Micah L.; Connolly, Greg; Cummings, K. Michael; Djordjevic, Mirjana V.; Hatsukami, Dorothy K.; Henningfield, Jack E.; Myers, Matthew; O'Connor, Richard J.; Parascandola, Mark; Rees, Vaughan; Rice, Jerry M.
2015-01-01
Objective Evidence-based tobacco regulation requires a comprehensive scientific framework to guide the evaluation of new tobacco products and health-related claims made by product manufacturers. Methods The Tobacco Product Assessment Consortium (TobPRAC) employed an iterative process involving consortia investigators, consultants, a workshop of independent scientists and public health experts, and written reviews in order to develop a conceptual framework for evaluating tobacco products. Results The consortium developed a four-phased framework for the scientific evaluation of tobacco products. The four phases addressed by the framework are: (1) pre-market evaluation, (2) pre-claims evaluation, (3) post-market activities, and (4) monitoring and re-evaluation. For each phase, the framework proposes the use of validated testing procedures that will evaluate potential harms at both the individual and population level. Conclusions While the validation of methods for evaluating tobacco products is an ongoing and necessary process, the proposed framework need not wait for fully validated methods to be used in guiding tobacco product regulation today. PMID:26665160
Wang, Karen E; Fitzpatrick, Caroline; George, David; Lane, Lindsey
2012-01-01
Summative evaluation of medical students is a critical component of the educational process. Despite extensive literature on evaluation, few studies have centered on affiliate faculty members' attitudes toward summative evaluation of students, though it has been suggested that these attitudes influence their effectiveness as evaluators. The objective is to examine affiliate faculty members' attitudes toward clinical clerkship evaluation using primarily qualitative research methods. The study used a nonexperimental research design and employed mixed methods. Data were collected through interviews, focus groups, and a questionnaire from 11 affiliate faculty members. Themes emerging from the data fell into three broad categories: (a) factors that influence grading, (b) consequences of negative evaluations, and (c) disconnections in the grading process. The quantitative portion of the study revealed important discrepancies supporting the use of qualitative methods. The study highlights faculty members' struggles with the evaluative process and emphasizes the need for improvements in evaluation tools and faculty development.
Implicit Shape Models for Object Detection in 3d Point Clouds
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Velizhev, A.; Shapovalov, R.; Schindler, K.
2012-07-01
We present a method for automatic object localization and recognition in 3D point clouds representing outdoor urban scenes. The method is based on the implicit shape models (ISM) framework, which recognizes objects by voting for their center locations. It requires only few training examples per class, which is an important property for practical use. We also introduce and evaluate an improved version of the spin image descriptor, more robust to point density variation and uncertainty in normal direction estimation. Our experiments reveal a significant impact of these modifications on the recognition performance. We compare our results against the state-of-the-art method and get significant improvement in both precision and recall on the Ohio dataset, consisting of combined aerial and terrestrial LiDAR scans of 150,000 m2 of urban area in total.
Saliency detection by conditional generative adversarial network
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Cai, Xiaoxu; Yu, Hui
2018-04-01
Detecting salient objects in images has been a fundamental problem in computer vision. In recent years, deep learning has shown its impressive performance in dealing with many kinds of vision tasks. In this paper, we propose a new method to detect salient objects by using Conditional Generative Adversarial Network (GAN). This type of network not only learns the mapping from RGB images to salient regions, but also learns a loss function for training the mapping. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that Conditional GAN has been used in salient object detection. We evaluate our saliency detection method on 2 large publicly available datasets with pixel accurate annotations. The experimental results have shown the significant and consistent improvements over the state-of-the-art method on a challenging dataset, and the testing speed is much faster.
Kramer, Desré M; Wells, Richard P; Carlan, Nicolette; Aversa, Theresa; Bigelow, Philip P; Dixon, Shane M; McMillan, Keith
2013-01-01
Few evaluation tools are available to assess knowledge-transfer and exchange interventions. The objective of this paper is to develop and demonstrate a theory-based knowledge-transfer and exchange method of evaluation (KEME) that synthesizes 3 theoretical frameworks: the promoting action on research implementation of health services (PARiHS) model, the transtheoretical model of change, and a model of knowledge use. It proposes a new term, keme, to mean a unit of evidence-based transferable knowledge. The usefulness of the evaluation method is demonstrated with 4 occupational health and safety knowledge transfer and exchange (KTE) implementation case studies that are based upon the analysis of over 50 pre-existing interviews. The usefulness of the evaluation model has enabled us to better understand stakeholder feedback, frame our interpretation, and perform a more comprehensive evaluation of the knowledge use outcomes of our KTE efforts.
Spook, Jorinde E; Paulussen, Theo; Paulissen, Rosie; Visschedijk, Gillian; Kok, Gerjo; van Empelen, Pepijn
2015-10-01
This article describes the design rationale behind a serious self-regulation game intervention. The aim of the game is to promote healthy dietary intake and physical activity among secondary vocational educational students in The Netherlands (approximately 16-20 years of age). The game "Balance It" was developed according to an intervention mapping (IM) protocol. Following IM, we specified health promotion and usability objectives and linked these objectives to selected behavior change and persuasive methods. Accordingly, these methods were translated into a coherent intervention program. The health behavior change objectives were derived from the determinants of the behavior and from Self-Regulation Theory (e.g., students are asked to set goals, monitor and evaluate their behavior, and create coping plans). Usability objectives were derived from the RE-AIM model (i.e., Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance). Next, behavior change and persuasive techniques were selected (e.g., goal setting and prompting, respectively) that did fit with the targeted change objectives and were translated in the design of a (mobile) serious self-regulation game intervention. Subsequently, three concept and usability tests were performed to improve intervention usability, and an evaluation plan was developed. The aim of this study was to provide a design rationale for game interventions targeting health-related behaviors. We developed a coherent program design in which both health behavior change and usability factors are addressed. The IM protocol can serve as a useful guide for decision making in program development and evaluation.
Subjective and objective voice evaluation in Sjögren's syndrome.
Saltürk, Ziya; Özdemir, Erdi; Kumral, Tolgar Lütfi; Karabacakoğlu, Zeynep; Kumral, Esra; Yildiz, Hatice Elvin; Mersinlioğlu, Gökhan; Atar, Yavuz; Berkiten, Güler; Yildirim, Güven; Uyar, Yavuz
2017-04-01
Objective The aim of this study is to assess the subjective and objective aspects of voice in Sjögren's syndrome. Methods The study enrolled 10 women with Sjögren's syndrome and 12 healthy women. Maximum phonation time, fundamental frequency, jitter, shimmer, and noise-to-harmonics ratio were determined during acoustic voice analysis. The Stroboscopy Evaluation Rating Form was used for the laryngostroboscopic evaluation. A subjective evaluation was performed using the Turkish version of Voice Handicap Index-10. Results The mean age of the Sjögren's syndrome and control groups was 46 ± 13.89 and 41.27 ± 6.99 years, respectively, and did not differ (P = 0.131). In the laryngostroboscopic evaluation, the smoothness and straightness of vocal folds, regularity, and glottal closure differed significantly. In the acoustic and aerodynamic analyses, none of the parameters differed statistically, while the Sjögren's syndrome group had significantly higher Voice Handicap Index-10 scores than the controls. Conclusion Sjögren's syndrome affects the voice and voice quality.
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Szoka de Valladares, M.R.; Mack, S.
The DOE Hydrogen Program needs to develop criteria as part of a systematic evaluation process for proposal identification, evaluation and selection. The H Scan component of this process provides a framework in which a project proposer can fully describe their candidate technology system and its components. The H Scan complements traditional methods of capturing cost and technical information. It consists of a special set of survey forms designed to elicit information so expert reviewers can assess the proposal relative to DOE specified selection criteria. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) component of the decision process assembles the management defined evaluation andmore » selection criteria into a coherent multi-level decision construct by which projects can be evaluated in pair-wise comparisons. The AHP model will reflect management`s objectives and it will assist in the ranking of individual projects based on the extent to which each contributes to management`s objectives. This paper contains a detailed description of the products and activities associated with the planning and evaluation process: The objectives or criteria; the H Scan; and The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP).« less
Heat and Moisture transport of socks
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Komárková, P.; Glombíková, V.; Havelka, A.
2017-10-01
Investigating the liquid moisture transport and thermal properties is essential for understanding physiological comfort of clothes. This study reports on an experimental investigation of moisture management transport and thermal transport on the physiological comfort of commercially available socks. There are subjective evaluation and objective measurements. Subjective evaluation of the physiological comfort of socks is based on individual sensory perception of probands during and after physical exertion. Objective measurements were performed according to standardized methods using Moisture Management tester for measuring the humidity parameters and C-term TCi analyzer for thermal conductivity and thermal effusivity. The obtained values of liquid moisture transport and thermal properties were related to the material composition and structure of the tested socks. In summary, these results show that objective measurement corresponds with probands feelings.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Starets, Moshe
1983-01-01
A television series for Acadians was evaluated by the Ministry of Education according to its stated objectives of vocabulary development and strengthening of ethnic appreciation in the Acadian community. The series was found to be an effective method of both teaching Acadian culture and reinforcing students' competence in French. (MSE)
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Wagner, Graham, Ed.
These proceedings begin with opening remarks that discuss seminar concerns and objectives. These remarks define two concerns: (1) evaluation of the methods of curriculum development and evaluation appropriate for vocational education in New Zealand; and (2) development of guidelines to assist educators to meet the requirements for competency-based…
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Chu, J. G.; Zhang, C.; Fu, G. T.; Li, Y.; Zhou, H. C.
2015-04-01
This study investigates the effectiveness of a sensitivity-informed method for multi-objective operation of reservoir systems, which uses global sensitivity analysis as a screening tool to reduce the computational demands. Sobol's method is used to screen insensitive decision variables and guide the formulation of the optimization problems with a significantly reduced number of decision variables. This sensitivity-informed problem decomposition dramatically reduces the computational demands required for attaining high quality approximations of optimal tradeoff relationships between conflicting design objectives. The search results obtained from the reduced complexity multi-objective reservoir operation problems are then used to pre-condition the full search of the original optimization problem. In two case studies, the Dahuofang reservoir and the inter-basin multi-reservoir system in Liaoning province, China, sensitivity analysis results show that reservoir performance is strongly controlled by a small proportion of decision variables. Sensitivity-informed problem decomposition and pre-conditioning are evaluated in their ability to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of multi-objective evolutionary optimization. Overall, this study illustrates the efficiency and effectiveness of the sensitivity-informed method and the use of global sensitivity analysis to inform problem decomposition when solving the complex multi-objective reservoir operation problems.
Creation and Delphi-method refinement of pediatric disaster triage simulations.
Cicero, Mark X; Brown, Linda; Overly, Frank; Yarzebski, Jorge; Meckler, Garth; Fuchs, Susan; Tomassoni, Anthony; Aghababian, Richard; Chung, Sarita; Garrett, Andrew; Fagbuyi, Daniel; Adelgais, Kathleen; Goldman, Ran; Parker, James; Auerbach, Marc; Riera, Antonio; Cone, David; Baum, Carl R
2014-01-01
There is a need for rigorously designed pediatric disaster triage (PDT) training simulations for paramedics. First, we sought to design three multiple patient incidents for EMS provider training simulations. Our second objective was to determine the appropriate interventions and triage level for each victim in each of the simulations and develop evaluation instruments for each simulation. The final objective was to ensure that each simulation and evaluation tool was free of bias toward any specific PDT strategy. We created mixed-methods disaster simulation scenarios with pediatric victims: a school shooting, a school bus crash, and a multiple-victim house fire. Standardized patients, high-fidelity manikins, and low-fidelity manikins were used to portray the victims. Each simulation had similar acuity of injuries and 10 victims. Examples include children with special health-care needs, gunshot wounds, and smoke inhalation. Checklist-based evaluation tools and behaviorally anchored global assessments of function were created for each simulation. Eight physicians and paramedics from areas with differing PDT strategies were recruited as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) for a modified Delphi iterative critique of the simulations and evaluation tools. The modified Delphi was managed with an online survey tool. The SMEs provided an expected triage category for each patient. The target for modified Delphi consensus was ≥85%. Using Likert scales and free text, the SMEs assessed the validity of the simulations, including instances of bias toward a specific PDT strategy, clarity of learning objectives, and the correlation of the evaluation tools to the learning objectives and scenarios. After two rounds of the modified Delphi, consensus for expected triage level was >85% for 28 of 30 victims, with the remaining two achieving >85% consensus after three Delphi iterations. To achieve consensus, we amended 11 instances of bias toward a specific PDT strategy and corrected 10 instances of noncorrelation between evaluations and simulation. The modified Delphi process, used to derive novel PDT simulation and evaluation tools, yielded a high degree of consensus among the SMEs, and eliminated biases toward specific PDT strategies in the evaluations. The simulations and evaluation tools may now be tested for reliability and validity as part of a prehospital PDT curriculum.
Evaluating the role of landscape in the spread of invasive species: the case of the biomass crop
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
As the development and cultivation of new bioeconomy crops and in particular biofuel feedstocks expands there is a pressing need for objective and quantitative methods to evaluate risks and benefits of their production. In particular, the traits being selected for in biofuel crops are highly aligned...
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Williams, Nathaniel J.
2009-01-01
Objective: This article introduces and evaluates children's psychosocial rehabilitation, a home- and community-based treatment for children with serious emotional disturbance. Method: In an open-trial design, the author used repeated-measures analysis of variance and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests to assess pre-post outcome ratings for 218…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Liao, Minli; Testa, Mark
2016-01-01
Objectives: This study evaluated the effects of the Adoption Preservation, Assessment, and Linkage (APAL) postpermanency program. Method: A quasi-experimental, posttest-only design was used to estimate the program's effects on youth discharged from foster care to adoption or legal guardianship. A random sample was surveyed (female = 44.7%; African…
Forensic Child Sexual Abuse Evaluations: Assessing Subjectivity and Bias in Professional Judgements
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Everson, Mark D.; Sandoval, Jose Miguel
2011-01-01
Objectives: Evaluators examining the same evidence often arrive at substantially different conclusions in forensic assessments of child sexual abuse (CSA). This study attempts to identify and quantify subjective factors that contribute to such disagreements so that interventions can be devised to improve the reliability of case decisions. Methods:…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Jackson, Jami; Carpenter, Shannon; Anderst, Jim
2012-01-01
Objectives: To describe children with congenital bleeding disorders that present in a manner that may be concerning for non-accidental trauma (NAT), and to evaluate associations with disease and demographic characteristics. Methods: Ten year retrospective charts of subjects were reviewed at a Hemophilia Treatment Center. Demographic, historical,…
A Controlled Evaluation of the Distress Criterion for Binge Eating Disorder
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Grilo, Carlos M.; White, Marney A.
2011-01-01
Objective: Research has examined various aspects of the validity of the research criteria for binge eating disorder (BED) but has yet to evaluate the utility of Criterion C, "marked distress about binge eating." This study examined the significance of the marked distress criterion for BED using 2 complementary comparison groups. Method:…
Beyond the Google Search Bar: Evaluating Source Credibility in Contemporary Research
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Sorenson, Mary E.
2016-01-01
Courses: Research Methods, Public Speaking, Communication Theory, any other course that requires college students to engage in a formal research process. Can be conducted in traditional, online, or hybrid courses. Objectives: In this original single-class activity, students will be able to evaluate source credibility for resources that extend…
Pilot Evaluation of a Home Visit Parent Training Program in Disadvantaged Families
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Leung, Cynthia; Tsang, Sandra; Heung, Kitty
2013-01-01
Objectives: The study reported the pilot evaluation of the Healthy Start Home Visit Program for disadvantaged Chinese parents with preschool children, delivered by trained parent assistants. Home visiting was used to make services more accessible to disadvantaged families. Method: The participants included 21 parent-child dyads. Outcome measures…
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Scheeres, Korine; Wensing, Michel; Knoop, Hans; Bleijenberg, Gijs
2008-01-01
Objective: This study evaluated the success of implementing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) in a representative clinical practice setting and compared the patient outcomes with those of previously published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of CBT for CFS. Method: The implementation interventions were the…
Evaluating Psychiatry Residents as Physician-Managers: Development of an Assessment Tool
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Sockalingam, Sanjeev; Stergiopoulos, Vicky; Maggi, Julie D.; Zaretsky, Ari; Stovel, Laura; Hodges, Brian
2013-01-01
Objectives: With the emergence of physician-manager (PM) curricula in medical education, more effective assessment tools are needed to evaluate psychiatry trainees in this role. The aim of this study was to determine psychiatry residents', program directors', and PM educators' perceptions about PM role-assessment. Methods: Psychiatry residents at…
Assessing Statistical Change Indices in Selected Social Work Intervention Research Studies
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Ham, Amanda D.; Huggins-Hoyt, Kimberly Y.; Pettus, Joelle
2016-01-01
Objectives: This study examined how evaluation and intervention research (IR) studies assessed statistical change to ascertain effectiveness. Methods: Studies from six core social work journals (2009-2013) were reviewed (N = 1,380). Fifty-two evaluation (n= 27) and intervention (n = 25) studies met the inclusion criteria. These studies were…
The next Stages in Researching Water Fluoridation: Evaluation and Surveillance
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Downer, Martin C.; Blinkhorn, Anthony S.
2007-01-01
Objective: (1) to provide a commentary on a conference held at the University of Manchester entitled Researching Water Fluoridation: Evaluation and Surveillance; (2) to synthesize from the proceedings of the meeting suggestions for future research and public health surveillance. Method: The main points and problematic issues raised by the speakers…
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
Research is needed over a wide geographic range of soil and weather scenarios to evaluate methods and tools for corn N fertilizer applications. The objectives of this research were to conduct standardized corn N rate response field studies to evaluate the performance of multiple public-domain N deci...
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Al Sayah, Fatima; Williams, Beverly; Johnson, Jeffrey A.
2013-01-01
Objective: To identify instruments used to measure health literacy and numeracy in people with diabetes; evaluate their use, measurement scope, and properties; discuss their strengths and weaknesses; and propose the most useful, reliable, and applicable measure for use in research and practice settings. Methods" A systematic literature review…
The Abuse-Related Beliefs Questionnaire for Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Ginzburg, Karni; Arnow, Bruce; Hart, Stacey; Gardner, William; Koopman, Cheryl; Classen, Catherine C.; Giese-Davis, Janine; Spiegel, David
2006-01-01
Objective: To evaluate the psychometric properties of a new measure, the Abuse-Related Beliefs Questionnaire (ARBQ), designed to assess abuse-related beliefs among adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse (CSA). Study 1 examined the structure of the scale, and Study 2 evaluated its reliability and validity. Method: One hundred and seventy female…
Outcome Evaluation of a Community Center-Based Program for Mothers at High Psychosocial Risk
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Rodrigo, Maria Jose; Maiquez, Maria Luisa; Correa, Ana Delia; Martin, Juan Carlos; Rodriguez, Guacimara
2006-01-01
Objective: This study reported the outcome evaluation of the "Apoyo Personal y Familiar" (APF) program for poorly-educated mothers from multi-problem families, showing inadequate behavior with their children. APF is a community-based multi-site program delivered through weekly group meetings in municipal resource centers. Method: A total…
Education and Child Welfare Supervisor Performance: Does a Social Work Degree Matter?
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Perry, Robin E.
2006-01-01
Objective: To empirically examine whether the educational background of child welfare supervisors in Florida affects performance evaluations of their work. Method: A complete population sample (yielding a 58.5% response rate) of administrator and peer evaluations of child welfare workers' supervisors. ANOVA procedures were utilized to test if…
Psychiatric Comorbidity in Learning Disorder: Analysis of Family Variables
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Capozzi, Flavia; Casini, Maria Pia; Romani, Maria; De Gennaro, Luigi; Nicolais, Giampaolo; Solano, Luigi
2008-01-01
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the role of parental relational styles on the development of psychopathological disturbances in children with Learning Disability (LD). Method: Fifty-six children aged 7-12 diagnosed with LD were evaluated on the basis of the Children Behaviour Check List (CBCL) completed by parents. Parents completed an…
Controlled Multivariate Evaluation of Open Education: Application of a Critical Model.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Sewell, Alan F.; And Others
This paper continues previous reports of a controlled multivariate evaluation of a junior high school open-education program. A new method of estimating program objectives and implementation is presented, together with the nature and degree of obtained student outcomes. Open-program students were found to approve more highly of their learning…
Behavioral Treatment of Menopausal Hot Flashes: Evaluation by Objective Methods.
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Germaine, Leonard M.; Freedman, Robert R.
1984-01-01
Used latency to hot flash onset under heat stress to evaluate the effects of relaxation treatment or a control procedure in 14 menopausal women. Following treatment, the latency to hot flash onset during heat stress was increased in relaxation subjects. Reported symptom frequency was significantly reduced in relaxation subjects. (BH)
Evaluating Predictors of Program Attrition among Women Mandated into Batterer Intervention Treatment
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Buttell, Frederick P.; Powers, Dolores; Wong, Asia
2012-01-01
Objective: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate pretreatment differences between treatment completers and dropouts among a large sample of women ordered into a 26-week batterer intervention program (BIP). Method: The study employed a nonequivalent, control-group design (comparing program completers to dropouts) in a secondary analysis…
New knowledge network evaluation method for design rationale management
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Jing, Shikai; Zhan, Hongfei; Liu, Jihong; Wang, Kuan; Jiang, Hao; Zhou, Jingtao
2015-01-01
Current design rationale (DR) systems have not demonstrated the value of the approach in practice since little attention is put to the evaluation method of DR knowledge. To systematize knowledge management process for future computer-aided DR applications, a prerequisite is to provide the measure for the DR knowledge. In this paper, a new knowledge network evaluation method for DR management is presented. The method characterizes the DR knowledge value from four perspectives, namely, the design rationale structure scale, association knowledge and reasoning ability, degree of design justification support and degree of knowledge representation conciseness. The DR knowledge comprehensive value is also measured by the proposed method. To validate the proposed method, different style of DR knowledge network and the performance of the proposed measure are discussed. The evaluation method has been applied in two realistic design cases and compared with the structural measures. The research proposes the DR knowledge evaluation method which can provide object metric and selection basis for the DR knowledge reuse during the product design process. In addition, the method is proved to be more effective guidance and support for the application and management of DR knowledge.
Objectification of perceptual image quality for mobile video
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Lee, Seon-Oh; Sim, Dong-Gyu
2011-06-01
This paper presents an objective video quality evaluation method for quantifying the subjective quality of digital mobile video. The proposed method aims to objectify the subjective quality by extracting edgeness and blockiness parameters. To evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithms, we carried out subjective video quality tests with the double-stimulus continuous quality scale method and obtained differential mean opinion score values for 120 mobile video clips. We then compared the performance of the proposed methods with that of existing methods in terms of the differential mean opinion score with 120 mobile video clips. Experimental results showed that the proposed methods were approximately 10% better than the edge peak signal-to-noise ratio of the J.247 method in terms of the Pearson correlation.
Object and event recognition for stroke rehabilitation
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Ghali, Ahmed; Cunningham, Andrew S.; Pridmore, Tony P.
2003-06-01
Stroke is a major cause of disability and health care expenditure around the world. Existing stroke rehabilitation methods can be effective but are costly and need to be improved. Even modest improvements in the effectiveness of rehabilitation techniques could produce large benefits in terms of quality of life. The work reported here is part of an ongoing effort to integrate virtual reality and machine vision technologies to produce innovative stroke rehabilitation methods. We describe a combined object recognition and event detection system that provides real time feedback to stroke patients performing everyday kitchen tasks necessary for independent living, e.g. making a cup of coffee. The image plane position of each object, including the patient"s hand, is monitored using histogram-based recognition methods. The relative positions of hand and objects are then reported to a task monitor that compares the patient"s actions against a model of the target task. A prototype system has been constructed and is currently undergoing technical and clinical evaluation.
Estimation of Wheat Plant Density at Early Stages Using High Resolution Imagery
Liu, Shouyang; Baret, Fred; Andrieu, Bruno; Burger, Philippe; Hemmerlé, Matthieu
2017-01-01
Crop density is a key agronomical trait used to manage wheat crops and estimate yield. Visual counting of plants in the field is currently the most common method used. However, it is tedious and time consuming. The main objective of this work is to develop a machine vision based method to automate the density survey of wheat at early stages. RGB images taken with a high resolution RGB camera are classified to identify the green pixels corresponding to the plants. Crop rows are extracted and the connected components (objects) are identified. A neural network is then trained to estimate the number of plants in the objects using the object features. The method was evaluated over three experiments showing contrasted conditions with sowing densities ranging from 100 to 600 seeds⋅m-2. Results demonstrate that the density is accurately estimated with an average relative error of 12%. The pipeline developed here provides an efficient and accurate estimate of wheat plant density at early stages. PMID:28559901
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wesemann, Johannes; Burgholzer, Reinhard; Herrnegger, Mathew; Schulz, Karsten
2017-04-01
In recent years, a lot of research in hydrological modelling has been invested to improve the automatic calibration of rainfall-runoff models. This includes for example (1) the implementation of new optimisation methods, (2) the incorporation of new and different objective criteria and signatures in the optimisation and (3) the usage of auxiliary data sets apart from runoff. Nevertheless, in many applications manual calibration is still justifiable and frequently applied. The hydrologist performing the manual calibration, with his expert knowledge, is able to judge the hydrographs simultaneously concerning details but also in a holistic view. This integrated eye-ball verification procedure available to man can be difficult to formulate in objective criteria, even when using a multi-criteria approach. Comparing the results of automatic and manual calibration is not straightforward. Automatic calibration often solely involves objective criteria such as Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency Coefficient or the Kling-Gupta-Efficiency as a benchmark during the calibration. Consequently, a comparison based on such measures is intrinsically biased towards automatic calibration. Additionally, objective criteria do not cover all aspects of a hydrograph leaving questions concerning the quality of a simulation open. This contribution therefore seeks to examine the quality of manually and automatically calibrated hydrographs by interactively involving expert knowledge in the evaluation. Simulations have been performed for the Mur catchment in Austria with the rainfall-runoff model COSERO using two parameter sets evolved from a manual and an automatic calibration. A subset of resulting hydrographs for observation and simulation, representing the typical flow conditions and events, will be evaluated in this study. In an interactive crowdsourcing approach experts attending the session can vote for their preferred simulated hydrograph without having information on the calibration method that produced the respective hydrograph. Therefore, the result of the poll can be seen as an additional quality criterion for the comparison of the two different approaches and help in the evaluation of the automatic calibration method.
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
TECHNICAL ABSTRACT Advantages of air chilling (AC) methods over immersion chilling (IC) methods in quality retention and improvement of deboned chicken breast meat depends on experimental conditions, such as deboning time. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a dry-AC method on ...
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Boyle, Cathy; McCann, John; Miyamoto, Sheridan; Rogers, Kristen
2008-01-01
Objective: To compare the effectiveness of three different examination methods in their ability to help the examiner detect both acute and non-acute genital injuries in prepubertal and pubertal girls suspected of having been sexually abused. Methods: Forty-six prepubertal and 74 pubertal girls, whose ages ranged from 4 months to 18 years, were…
Structural optimization of large structural systems by optimality criteria methods
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Berke, Laszlo
1992-01-01
The fundamental concepts of the optimality criteria method of structural optimization are presented. The effect of the separability properties of the objective and constraint functions on the optimality criteria expressions is emphasized. The single constraint case is treated first, followed by the multiple constraint case with a more complex evaluation of the Lagrange multipliers. Examples illustrate the efficiency of the method.
Mountain pine beetle attack in ponderosa pine: Comparing methods for rating susceptibility
David C. Chojnacky; Barbara J. Bentz; Jesse A. Logan
2000-01-01
Two empirical methods for rating susceptibility of mountain pine beetle attack in ponderosa pine were evaluated. The methods were compared to stand data modeled to objectively rate each sampled stand for susceptibly to bark-beetle attack. Data on bark-beetle attacks, from a survey of 45 sites throughout the Colorado Plateau, were modeled using logistic regression to...
Stream Clustering of Growing Objects
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Siddiqui, Zaigham Faraz; Spiliopoulou, Myra
We study incremental clustering of objects that grow and accumulate over time. The objects come from a multi-table stream e.g. streams of
Montakab, H; Langel, G
1994-01-01
The sleep-wake cycle is the most important circadian rhythm in man and thus constitutes an excellent indicator of internal equilibrium and of health. Sleep disorders, and particularly insomnia, affect a great percentage of the population. In daily practice, an inappropriate treatment may transform a bad sleeper into an insomniac dependent on pharmaceuticals for life. It is therefore necessary to give priority to non-chemical treatments in the management of insomnia. Acupuncture, which offers a personalized treatment, is particularly indicated for reharmonizing a disturbed sleep-wake cycle. Furthermore, there is an interesting similarity between the 5000-year-old theoretical basis of Chinese medicine and the recent scientific discoveries about man's internal rhythms. Clinical and statistical studies of the effects of acupuncture on insomnia are rare and evaluate only the subjective appreciation of sleep. Objective analysis of sleep by polysomnography permits evaluation of sleep architecture and visualizes the site and depth of action of the therapeutic method. Such studies have only been conducted in relation to pharmaceutical treatments. No such study has been carried out for acupuncture. A scientific and objective evaluation of the effects of acupuncture on insomnia by polysomnography could be not only of academic but mainly of great practical interest. If the efficiency of acupuncture is thus verified, this method could be integrated and proposed along with other classical therapeutic technics.
A benchmark for comparison of dental radiography analysis algorithms.
Wang, Ching-Wei; Huang, Cheng-Ta; Lee, Jia-Hong; Li, Chung-Hsing; Chang, Sheng-Wei; Siao, Ming-Jhih; Lai, Tat-Ming; Ibragimov, Bulat; Vrtovec, Tomaž; Ronneberger, Olaf; Fischer, Philipp; Cootes, Tim F; Lindner, Claudia
2016-07-01
Dental radiography plays an important role in clinical diagnosis, treatment and surgery. In recent years, efforts have been made on developing computerized dental X-ray image analysis systems for clinical usages. A novel framework for objective evaluation of automatic dental radiography analysis algorithms has been established under the auspices of the IEEE International Symposium on Biomedical Imaging 2015 Bitewing Radiography Caries Detection Challenge and Cephalometric X-ray Image Analysis Challenge. In this article, we present the datasets, methods and results of the challenge and lay down the principles for future uses of this benchmark. The main contributions of the challenge include the creation of the dental anatomy data repository of bitewing radiographs, the creation of the anatomical abnormality classification data repository of cephalometric radiographs, and the definition of objective quantitative evaluation for comparison and ranking of the algorithms. With this benchmark, seven automatic methods for analysing cephalometric X-ray image and two automatic methods for detecting bitewing radiography caries have been compared, and detailed quantitative evaluation results are presented in this paper. Based on the quantitative evaluation results, we believe automatic dental radiography analysis is still a challenging and unsolved problem. The datasets and the evaluation software will be made available to the research community, further encouraging future developments in this field. (http://www-o.ntust.edu.tw/~cweiwang/ISBI2015/). Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Zhou, Ronggang; Chan, Alan H. S.
2016-01-01
BACKGROUND: In order to compare existing usability data to ideal goals or to that for other products, usability practitioners have tried to develop a framework for deriving an integrated metric. However, most current usability methods with this aim rely heavily on human judgment about the various attributes of a product, but often fail to take into account of the inherent uncertainties in these judgments in the evaluation process. OBJECTIVE: This paper presents a universal method of usability evaluation by combining the analytic hierarchical process (AHP) and the fuzzy evaluation method. By integrating multiple sources of uncertain information during product usability evaluation, the method proposed here aims to derive an index that is structured hierarchically in terms of the three usability components of effectiveness, efficiency, and user satisfaction of a product. METHODS: With consideration of the theoretical basis of fuzzy evaluation, a two-layer comprehensive evaluation index was first constructed. After the membership functions were determined by an expert panel, the evaluation appraisals were computed by using the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation technique model to characterize fuzzy human judgments. Then with the use of AHP, the weights of usability components were elicited from these experts. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Compared to traditional usability evaluation methods, the major strength of the fuzzy method is that it captures the fuzziness and uncertainties in human judgments and provides an integrated framework that combines the vague judgments from multiple stages of a product evaluation process. PMID:28035943
Evaluation of experimental methods for assessing safety for ultrasound radiation force elastography.
Skurczynski, M J; Duck, F A; Shipley, J A; Bamber, J C; Melodelima, D
2009-08-01
Standard test tools have been evaluated for the assessment of safety associated with a prototype transducer intended for a novel radiation force elastographic imaging system. In particular, safety has been evaluated by direct measurement of temperature rise, using a standard thermal test object, and detection of inertial cavitation from acoustic emission. These direct measurements have been compared with values of the thermal index and mechanical index, calculated from acoustic measurements in water using standard formulae. It is concluded that measurements using a thermal test object can be an effective alternative to the calculation of thermal index for evaluating thermal hazard. Measurement of the threshold for cavitation was subject to considerable variability, and it is concluded that the mechanical index still remains the preferred standard means for assessing cavitation hazard.
Orthoclinostatic test as one of the methods for evaluating the human functional state
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Doskin, V. A.; Gissen, L. D.; Bomshteyn, O. Z.; Merkin, E. N.; Sarychev, S. B.
1980-01-01
The possible use of different methods to evaluate the autonomic regulation in hygienic studies were examined. The simplest and most objective tests were selected. It is shown that the use of the optimized standards not only makes it possible to detect earlier unfavorables shifts, but also permits a quantitative characterization of the degree of impairment in the state of the organism. Precise interpretation of the observed shifts is possible. Results indicate that the standards can serve as one of the criteria for evaluating the state and can be widely used in hygienic practice.
Choi, Inyong; Koo, Ja-Won; Lee, Kyogu
2016-01-01
Objective Although vascular pulsatile tinnitus (VPT) has been classified as “objective”, VPT is not easily recognizable or documentable in most cases. In response to this, we have developed transcanal sound recording (TSR) and spectro-temporal analysis (STA) for the objective diagnosis of VPT. By refining our initial method, we were able to apply TSR/STA to post-treatment outcome evaluation, as well as pre-treatment objective diagnosis. Methods TSR was performed on seven VPT patients and five normal controls before and after surgical or interventional treatment. VPT was recorded using an inserted microphone with the subjects placed in both upright and supine positions with 1) a neutral head position, 2) head rotated to the tinnitus side, 3) head rotated to the non-tinnitus side, and 4) a neutral position with ipsi-lesional manual cervical compression. The recorded signals were analyzed in both time and time-frequency domains by performing a short-time Fourier transformation. Results The pre-treatment ear canal signals of all VPT patients demonstrated pulse-synchronous periodic structures and acoustic characteristics that were representative of their presumptive vascular pathologies, whereas those the controls exhibited smaller peaks and weak periodicities. Compared with the pre-treatment signals, the post-treatment signals exhibited significantly reduced peak- and root mean square amplitudes upon time domain analysis. Additionally, further sub-band analysis confirmed that the pulse-synchronous signal of all subjects was not identifiable after treatment and, in particular, that the signal decrement was statistically significant at low frequencies. Moreover, the post-treatment signals of the VPT subjects revealed no significant differences when compared to those of the control group. Conclusion We reconfirmed that the TSR/STA method is an effective modality to objectify VPT. In addition, the potential role of the TSR/STA method in the objective evaluation of treatment outcomes in patients with VPT was proven. Further studies incorporating a larger sample size and more refined recording techniques are warranted. PMID:27351198
Video conference quality assessment based on cooperative sensing of video and audio
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Wang, Junxi; Chen, Jialin; Tian, Xin; Zhou, Cheng; Zhou, Zheng; Ye, Lu
2015-12-01
This paper presents a method to video conference quality assessment, which is based on cooperative sensing of video and audio. In this method, a proposed video quality evaluation method is used to assess the video frame quality. The video frame is divided into noise image and filtered image by the bilateral filters. It is similar to the characteristic of human visual, which could also be seen as a low-pass filtering. The audio frames are evaluated by the PEAQ algorithm. The two results are integrated to evaluate the video conference quality. A video conference database is built to test the performance of the proposed method. It could be found that the objective results correlate well with MOS. Then we can conclude that the proposed method is efficiency in assessing video conference quality.
Aerodynamic Optimization of Rocket Control Surface Geometry Using Cartesian Methods and CAD Geometry
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Nelson, Andrea; Aftosmis, Michael J.; Nemec, Marian; Pulliam, Thomas H.
2004-01-01
Aerodynamic design is an iterative process involving geometry manipulation and complex computational analysis subject to physical constraints and aerodynamic objectives. A design cycle consists of first establishing the performance of a baseline design, which is usually created with low-fidelity engineering tools, and then progressively optimizing the design to maximize its performance. Optimization techniques have evolved from relying exclusively on designer intuition and insight in traditional trial and error methods, to sophisticated local and global search methods. Recent attempts at automating the search through a large design space with formal optimization methods include both database driven and direct evaluation schemes. Databases are being used in conjunction with surrogate and neural network models as a basis on which to run optimization algorithms. Optimization algorithms are also being driven by the direct evaluation of objectives and constraints using high-fidelity simulations. Surrogate methods use data points obtained from simulations, and possibly gradients evaluated at the data points, to create mathematical approximations of a database. Neural network models work in a similar fashion, using a number of high-fidelity database calculations as training iterations to create a database model. Optimal designs are obtained by coupling an optimization algorithm to the database model. Evaluation of the current best design then gives either a new local optima and/or increases the fidelity of the approximation model for the next iteration. Surrogate methods have also been developed that iterate on the selection of data points to decrease the uncertainty of the approximation model prior to searching for an optimal design. The database approximation models for each of these cases, however, become computationally expensive with increase in dimensionality. Thus the method of using optimization algorithms to search a database model becomes problematic as the number of design variables is increased.
Slab replacement maturity guidelines.
DOT National Transportation Integrated Search
2014-04-01
This study investigated the use of maturity method to determine early age strength of concrete in slab : replacement application. Specific objectives were (1) to evaluate effects of various factors on the compressive : maturity-strength relationship ...
Ultrasound – A new approach for non-woven scaffolds investigation
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Khramtsova, E. A.; Morokov, E. S.; Levin, V. M.
2016-05-18
In this study we verified the method of impulse acoustic microscopy as a tool for scaffold evaluation in tissue engineering investigation. Cellulose diacetate (CDA) non-woven 3D scaffold was used as a model object. Scanning electron microscopy and optical microscopy were used as reference methods in order to realize feasibility of acoustic microscopy method in a regenerative medicine field. Direct comparison of the different methods was carried out.
Review of digital holography reconstruction methods
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Dovhaliuk, Rostyslav Yu.
2018-01-01
Development of digital holography opened new ways of both transparent and opaque objects non-destructive study. In this paper, a digital hologram reconstruction process is investigated. The advantages and limitations of common wave propagation methods are discussed. The details of a software implementation of a digital hologram reconstruction methods are presented. Finally, the performance of each wave propagation method is evaluated, and recommendations about possible use cases for each of them are given.
Availability Control for Means of Transport in Decisive Semi-Markov Models of Exploitation Process
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Migawa, Klaudiusz
2012-12-01
The issues presented in this research paper refer to problems connected with the control process for exploitation implemented in the complex systems of exploitation for technical objects. The article presents the description of the method concerning the control availability for technical objects (means of transport) on the basis of the mathematical model of the exploitation process with the implementation of the decisive processes by semi-Markov. The presented method means focused on the preparing the decisive for the exploitation process for technical objects (semi-Markov model) and after that specifying the best control strategy (optimal strategy) from among possible decisive variants in accordance with the approved criterion (criteria) of the activity evaluation of the system of exploitation for technical objects. In the presented method specifying the optimal strategy for control availability in the technical objects means a choice of a sequence of control decisions made in individual states of modelled exploitation process for which the function being a criterion of evaluation reaches the extreme value. In order to choose the optimal control strategy the implementation of the genetic algorithm was chosen. The opinions were presented on the example of the exploitation process of the means of transport implemented in the real system of the bus municipal transport. The model of the exploitation process for the means of transports was prepared on the basis of the results implemented in the real transport system. The mathematical model of the exploitation process was built taking into consideration the fact that the model of the process constitutes the homogenous semi-Markov process.
Sweet Sorghum Alternative Fuel and Feed Pilot Project
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)
Slack, Donald C.; Kaltenbach, C. Colin
The University of Arizona undertook a “pilot” project to grow sweet sorghum on a field scale (rather than a plot scale), produce juice from the sweet sorghum, deliver the juice to a bio-refinery and process it to fuel-grade ethanol. We also evaluated the bagasse for suitability as a livestock feed and as a fuel. In addition to these objectives we evaluated methods of juice preservation, ligno-cellulosic conversion of the bagasse to fermentable sugars and alternative methods of juice extraction.
Airframe noise prediction evaluation
NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
Yamamoto, Kingo J.; Donelson, Michael J.; Huang, Shumei C.; Joshi, Mahendra C.
1995-01-01
The objective of this study is to evaluate the accuracy and adequacy of current airframe noise prediction methods using available airframe noise measurements from tests of a narrow body transport (DC-9) and a wide body transport (DC-10) in addition to scale model test data. General features of the airframe noise from these aircraft and models are outlined. The results of the assessment of two airframe prediction methods, Fink's and Munson's methods, against flight test data of these aircraft and scale model wind tunnel test data are presented. These methods were extensively evaluated against measured data from several configurations including clean, slat deployed, landing gear-deployed, flap deployed, and landing configurations of both DC-9 and DC-10. They were also assessed against a limited number of configurations of scale models. The evaluation was conducted in terms of overall sound pressure level (OASPL), tone corrected perceived noise level (PNLT), and one-third-octave band sound pressure level (SPL).
The State of Evaluation in Internal Medicine Residency
Holmboe, Eric; Beasley, Brent W.
2008-01-01
Background There are no nationwide data on the methods residency programs are using to assess trainee competence. The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) has recommended tools that programs can use to evaluate their trainees. It is unknown if programs are adhering to these recommendations. Objective To describe evaluation methods used by our nation’s internal medicine residency programs and assess adherence to ACGME methodological recommendations for evaluation. Design Nationwide survey. Participants All internal medicine programs registered with the Association of Program Directors of Internal Medicine (APDIM). Measurements Descriptive statistics of programs and tools used to evaluate competence; compliance with ACGME recommended evaluative methods. Results The response rate was 70%. Programs were using an average of 4.2–6.0 tools to evaluate their trainees with heavy reliance on rating forms. Direct observation and practice and data-based tools were used much less frequently. Most programs were using at least 1 of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)’s “most desirable” methods of evaluation for all 6 measures of trainee competence. These programs had higher support staff to resident ratios than programs using less desirable evaluative methods. Conclusions Residency programs are using a large number and variety of tools for evaluating the competence of their trainees. Most are complying with ACGME recommended methods of evaluation especially if the support staff to resident ratio is high. PMID:18612734
Rapp, David E; Lyon, Mark B; Orvieto, Marcelo A; Zagaja, Gregory P
2005-10-01
The classical approach to the undergraduate medical clerkship has several limitations, including variability of clinical exposure and method of examination. As a result, the clerkship experience does not ensure exposure to and reinforcement of the fundamental concepts of a given specialty. This article reviews the classic approach to clerkship education within the undergraduate medical education. Specific attention is placed on clinical exposure and clerkship examination. We describe the introduction of the Core Learning Objective (CLO) educational model at the University of Chicago Section of Urology. This model is designed to provide an efficient exposure to and evaluation of core clerkship learning objectives. The CLO model has been successfully initiated, focusing on both technical and clinical skill sets. The proposed model has been introduced with positive initial results and should allow for an efficient approach to the teaching and evaluation of core objectives in clerkship education.
NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)
Yang, Y.; Tenenbaum, D. E.
2009-12-01
The process of urbanization has major effects on both human and natural systems. In order to monitor these changes and better understand how urban ecological systems work, urban spatial structure and the variation needs to be first quantified at a fine scale. Because the land-use and land-cover (LULC) in urbanizing areas is highly heterogeneous, the classification of urbanizing environments is the most challenging field in remote sensing. Although a pixel-based method is a common way to do classification, the results are not good enough for many research objectives which require more accurate classification data in fine scales. Transect sampling and object-oriented classification methods are more appropriate for urbanizing areas. Tenenbaum used a transect sampling method using a computer-based facility within a widely available commercial GIS in the Glyndon Catchment and the Upper Baismans Run Catchment, Baltimore, Maryland. It was a two-tiered classification system, including a primary level (which includes 7 classes) and a secondary level (which includes 37 categories). The statistical information of LULC was collected. W. Zhou applied an object-oriented method at the parcel level in Gwynn’s Falls Watershed which includes the two previously mentioned catchments and six classes were extracted. The two urbanizing catchments are located in greater Baltimore, Maryland and drain into Chesapeake Bay. In this research, the two different methods are compared for 6 classes (woody, herbaceous, water, ground, pavement and structure). The comparison method uses the segments in the transect method to extract LULC information from the results of the object-oriented method. Classification results were compared in order to evaluate the difference between the two methods. The overall proportions of LULC classes from the two studies show that there is overestimation of structures in the object-oriented method. For the other five classes, the results from the two methods are similar, except for a difference in the proportions of the woody class. The segment to segment comparison shows that the resolution of the light detection and ranging (LIDAR) data used in the object-oriented method does affect the accuracy of the classification. Shadows of trees and structures are still a big problem in the object-oriented method. For classes that make up a small proportion of the catchments, such as water, neither method was capable of detecting them.
Mine safety assessment using gray relational analysis and bow tie model
2018-01-01
Mine safety assessment is a precondition for ensuring orderly and safety in production. The main purpose of this study was to prevent mine accidents more effectively by proposing a composite risk analysis model. First, the weights of the assessment indicators were determined by the revised integrated weight method, in which the objective weights were determined by a variation coefficient method and the subjective weights determined by the Delphi method. A new formula was then adopted to calculate the integrated weights based on the subjective and objective weights. Second, after the assessment indicator weights were determined, gray relational analysis was used to evaluate the safety of mine enterprises. Mine enterprise safety was ranked according to the gray relational degree, and weak links of mine safety practices identified based on gray relational analysis. Third, to validate the revised integrated weight method adopted in the process of gray relational analysis, the fuzzy evaluation method was used to the safety assessment of mine enterprises. Fourth, for first time, bow tie model was adopted to identify the causes and consequences of weak links and allow corresponding safety measures to be taken to guarantee the mine’s safe production. A case study of mine safety assessment was presented to demonstrate the effectiveness and rationality of the proposed composite risk analysis model, which can be applied to other related industries for safety evaluation. PMID:29561875
Heinrich, Andreas; Teichgräber, Ulf K; Güttler, Felix V
2015-12-01
The standard ASTM F2119 describes a test method for measuring the size of a susceptibility artifact based on the example of a passive implant. A pixel in an image is considered to be a part of an image artifact if the intensity is changed by at least 30% in the presence of a test object, compared to a reference image in which the test object is absent (reference value). The aim of this paper is to simplify and accelerate the test method using a histogram-based reference value. Four test objects were scanned parallel and perpendicular to the main magnetic field, and the largest susceptibility artifacts were measured using two methods of reference value determination (reference image-based and histogram-based reference value). The results between both methods were compared using the Mann-Whitney U-test. The difference between both reference values was 42.35 ± 23.66. The difference of artifact size was 0.64 ± 0.69 mm. The artifact sizes of both methods did not show significant differences; the p-value of the Mann-Whitney U-test was between 0.710 and 0.521. A standard-conform method for a rapid, objective, and reproducible evaluation of susceptibility artifacts could be implemented. The result of the histogram-based method does not significantly differ from the ASTM-conform method.
Dos Santos, Wellington P; de Assis, Francisco M; de Souza, Ricardo E; Dos Santos Filho, Plinio B
2008-01-01
Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, yet hard to diagnose precisely without invasive techniques, particularly at the onset of the disease. This work approaches image analysis and classification of synthetic multispectral images composed by diffusion-weighted (DW) magnetic resonance (MR) cerebral images for the evaluation of cerebrospinal fluid area and measuring the advance of Alzheimer's disease. A clinical 1.5 T MR imaging system was used to acquire all images presented. The classification methods are based on Objective Dialectical Classifiers, a new method based on Dialectics as defined in the Philosophy of Praxis. A 2-degree polynomial network with supervised training is used to generate the ground truth image. The classification results are used to improve the usual analysis of the apparent diffusion coefficient map.
Della, Lindsay J.; DeJoy, David M.; Goetzel, Ron Z.; Ozminkowski, Ronald J.; Wilson, Mark G.
2009-01-01
Objective This paper describes the development of the Leading by Example (LBE) instrument. Methods Exploratory factor analysis was used to obtain an initial factor structure. Factor validity was evaluated using confirmatory factor analysis methods. Cronbach’s alpha and item-total correlations provided information on the reliability of the factor subscales. Results Four subscales were identified: business alignment with health promotion objectives; awareness of the health-productivity link; worksite support for health promotion; leadership support for health promotion. Factor by group comparisons revealed that the initial factor structure is effective in detecting differences in organizational support for health promotion across different employee groups Conclusions Management support for health promotion can be assessed using the LBE, a brief, self-report questionnaire. Researchers can use the LBE to diagnose, track, and evaluate worksite health promotion programs. PMID:18517097
Milenin, V V; Ostreĭkov, I F; Vasil'ev, Ia I
2014-01-01
The article deals with results of comparative evaluation of system of assessment of children's fear and anxiety in dentistry (SDS test) and other objective and subjective methods for assessing anxiety in pediatric patients. We studied 381 pediatric patients aged from 3 to 7 years. The aim of the study was to prove validity mathematical derived FCD test as a technique of anxiety detection in dentistry. During the study following subjective test were used: MAS, DAS, mYPAS, VAS, STAI, STAIC, EASI, PHBQ, and some history data and stress factors were also considered. Objective data used were vital signs (hemodynamics and respiratory rate). Test SDS has strong correlation with YALE, MAS, DAS, STAIlich, VAS and other parameters such as age, sex, person which is responsible for bringing up a child and so on.
Estimation of shrub leaf biomass available to white-tailed deer.
Lynn L. Rogers; Ronald E. McRoberts
1992-01-01
Describes an objective method for using shrub height to estimate leaf biomass within reach of deer. The method can be used in conjunction with surveys of shrub height, shrub density, and shrub species composition to evaluate deer habitat over large areas and to predict trends in forage availability with further forest growth.
Development of an Interactive Social Media Tool for Parents with Concerns about Vaccines
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Shoup, Jo Ann; Wagner, Nicole M.; Kraus, Courtney R.; Narwaney, Komal J.; Goddard, Kristin S.; Glanz, Jason M.
2015-01-01
Objective: Describe a process for designing, building, and evaluating a theory-driven social media intervention tool to help reduce parental concerns about vaccination. Method: We developed an interactive web-based tool using quantitative and qualitative methods (e.g., survey, focus groups, individual interviews, and usability testing). Results:…
The effect of pre-enrichment media on the recovery and detection of Salmonella in feed
USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database
Current methodology for detecting Salmonella in feeds and feed ingredients are adapted from food safety methods. These methods do not take into account the stressed state of Salmonella in feed, presence of competing microorganisms nor the sample matrix. The objective was to evaluate four pre-enrichm...
Cost-Effectiveness of Social Work Services in Aging: An Updated Systematic Review
ERIC Educational Resources Information Center
Rizzo, Victoria M.; Rowe, Jeannine M.
2016-01-01
Objectives: This study examines the impact of social work interventions in aging on quality of life (QOL) and cost outcomes in four categories (health, mental health, geriatric evaluation and management, and caregiving). Methods: Systematic review methods are employed. Databases were searched for articles published in English between 2004 and 2012…