Staff Perspectives on the Use of a Computer-Based Concept for Lifestyle Intervention Implemented in Primary Health Care

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carlfjord, Siw; Johansson, Kjell; Bendtsen, Preben; Nilsen, Per; Andersson, Agneta

2010-01-01

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate staff experiences of the use of a computer-based concept for lifestyle testing and tailored advice implemented in routine primary health care (PHC). Design: The design of the study was a cross-sectional, retrospective survey. Setting: The study population consisted of staff at nine PHC units in the…

Improving Awareness of Health Hazards Associated with Air Pollution in Primary School Children: Design and Test of Didactic Tools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carducci, Annalaura; Casini, Beatrice; Donzelli, Gabriele; Verani, Marco; Bruni, Beatrice; Ceretti, Elisabetta; Zani, Claudia; Carraro, Elisabetta; Bonetta, Sara; Bagordo, Francesco; Grassi, Tiziana; Villarini, Milena; Bonizzoni, Silvia; Zagni, Licia; Gelatti, Umberto

2016-01-01

One of the objectives of the MAPEC-Life project is raising children's awareness on air quality and its health effects. To achieve this goal, we designed didactic tools for primary school students, including leaflets with more information for teachers, a cartoon, and three educational videogames. The tools were then tested with 266 children who…

The design-build contracting methodology for transportation projects : a review of practice and evaluation for Connecticut applications.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-06-10

Two primary contracting methods are used by most state transportation agencies to : design and build infrastructure: design-bid-build and design-build. The objective : of this study is to conduct a literature review to identify how ConnDOTs use of...

Engine Tune-Up Service. Unit 3: Primary Circuit. Posttests. Automotive Mechanics Curriculum.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morse, David T.

This book of posttests is designed to accompany the Engine Tune-Up Service Student Guide for Unit 3, Primary Circuit, available separately as CE 031 211. Focus of the posttests is setting the primary ignition circuit. One multiple choice posttest is provided, covering the eight performance objectives contained in the unit. (No answer key is…

Direct coal liquefaction baseline design and system analysis. Quarterly report, January--March 1991

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

Not Available

1991-04-01

The primary objective of the study is to develop a computer model for a base line direct coal liquefaction design based on two stage direct coupled catalytic reactors. This primary objective is to be accomplished by completing the following: a base line design based on previous DOE/PETC results from Wilsonville pilot plant and other engineering evaluations; a cost estimate and economic analysis; a computer model incorporating the above two steps over a wide range of capacities and selected process alternatives; a comprehensive training program for DOE/PETC Staff to understand and use the computer model; a thorough documentation of all underlyingmore » assumptions for baseline economics; and a user manual and training material which will facilitate updating of the model in the future.« less

Direct coal liquefaction baseline design and system analysis

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

Not Available

1991-04-01

The primary objective of the study is to develop a computer model for a base line direct coal liquefaction design based on two stage direct coupled catalytic reactors. This primary objective is to be accomplished by completing the following: a base line design based on previous DOE/PETC results from Wilsonville pilot plant and other engineering evaluations; a cost estimate and economic analysis; a computer model incorporating the above two steps over a wide range of capacities and selected process alternatives; a comprehensive training program for DOE/PETC Staff to understand and use the computer model; a thorough documentation of all underlyingmore » assumptions for baseline economics; and a user manual and training material which will facilitate updating of the model in the future.« less

Phase I Final Scientific Report

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

Lu, Xijia; Fetvedt, Jeremy; Dimmig, Walker

This Final Scientific Report addresses the accomplishments achieved during Phase I of DE- FE0023985, Coal Syngas Combustor Development for Supercritical CO 2 Power Cycles. The primary objective of the project was to develop a coal syngas-fueled combustor design for use with high-pressure, high-temperature, oxy-fuel, supercritical CO 2 power cycles, with particular focus given to the conditions required by the Allam Cycle. The primary goals, from the Statement of Project Objectives, were to develop: (1) a conceptual design of a syngas-fueled combustor-turbine block for a 300MWe high-pressure, oxy-fuel, sCO2 power plant; (2) the preliminary design of a 5MWt test combustor; andmore » (3) the definition of a combustor test program. Accomplishments for each of these goals are discussed in this report.« less

Seismic design of passive tuned mass damper parameters using active control algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Chia-Ming; Shia, Syuan; Lai, Yong-An

2018-07-01

Tuned mass dampers are a widely-accepted control method to effectively reduce the vibrations of tall buildings. A tuned mass damper employs a damped harmonic oscillator with specific dynamic characteristics, thus the response of structures can be regulated by the additive dynamics. The additive dynamics are, however, similar to the feedback control system in active control. Therefore, the objective of this study is to develop a new tuned mass damper design procedure based on the active control algorithm, i.e., the H2/LQG control. This design facilitates the similarity of feedback control in the active control algorithm to determine the spring and damper in a tuned mass damper. Given a mass ratio between the damper and structure, the stiffness and damping coefficient of the tuned mass damper are derived by minimizing the response objective function of the primary structure, where the structural properties are known. Varying a single weighting in this objective function yields the optimal TMD design when the minimum peak in the displacement transfer function of the structure with the TMD is met. This study examines various objective functions as well as derives the associated equations to compute the stiffness and damping coefficient. The relationship between the primary structure and optimal tuned mass damper is parametrically studied. Performance is evaluated by exploring the h2-and h∞-norms of displacements and accelerations of the primary structure. In time-domain analysis, the damping effectiveness of the tune mass damper controlled structures is investigated under impulse excitation. Structures with the optimal tuned mass dampers are also assessed under seismic excitation. As a result, the proposed design procedure produces an effective tuned mass damper to be employed in a structure against earthquakes.

Considerations for the Optimal Design of a Two-Way Interactive Distance Education Classroom.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gregg, Joe; Persichitte, Kay

To make effective use of a two-way interactive distance education system, classroom design should be a primary consideration. A properly designed classroom will enhance content objectives and increase acceptance of this type of instructional delivery. This paper describes key considerations for optimal design. Construction considerations include…

Rock ramp design guidelines

USGS Publications Warehouse

Mooney, David M.; Holmquist-Johnson, Christopher L.; Broderick, Susan

2007-01-01

Rock ramps or roughened channels consist of steep reaches stabilized by large immobile material (riprap). Primary objectives for rock ramps include: Create adequate head for diversionMaintain fish passage during low-flow conditionsMaintain hydraulic conveyance during high-flow conditionsSecondary objectives for rock ramp design include:Emulate natural systemsMinimize costsThe rock ramp consists of a low-flow channel designed to maintain biologically adequate depth and velocity conditions during periods of small discharges. The remainder of the ramp is designed to withstand and pass large flows with minimal structural damage. The following chapters outline a process for designing rock ramps.

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 ...

An analysis of characteristics of post-authorisation studies registered on the ENCePP EU PAS Register

PubMed Central

Carroll, Robert; Ramagopalan, Sreeram V.; Cid-Ruzafa, Javier; Lambrelli, Dimitra; McDonald, Laura

2017-01-01

Background: The objective of this study was to investigate the study design characteristics of Post-Authorisation Studies (PAS) requested by the European Medicines Agency which were recorded on the European Union (EU) PAS Register held by the European Network of Centres for Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance (ENCePP). Methods: We undertook a cross-sectional descriptive analysis of all studies registered on the EU PAS Register as of 18 th October 2016. Results: We identified a total of 314 studies on the EU PAS Register, including 81 (26%) finalised, 160 (51%) ongoing and 73 (23%) planned. Of those studies identified, 205 (65%) included risk assessment in their scope, 133 (42%) included drug utilisation and 94 (30%) included effectiveness evaluation. Just over half of the studies (175; 56%) used primary data capture, 135 (43%) used secondary data and 4 (1%) used a hybrid design combining both approaches. Risk assessment and effectiveness studies were more likely to use primary data capture (60% and 85% respectively as compared to 39% and 14% respectively for secondary). The converse was true for drug utilisation studies where 59% were secondary vs. 39% for primary. For type 2 diabetes mellitus, database studies were more commonly used (80% vs 3% chart review, 3% hybrid and 13% primary data capture study designs) whereas for studies in oncology, primary data capture were more likely to be used (85% vs 4% chart review, and 11% database study designs). Conclusions: Results of this analysis show that PAS design varies according to study objectives and therapeutic area. PMID:29188016

Design Standards for Children's Environments.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ruth, Linda Cain

This three-part book addresses the design or maintenance of spaces where children are the primary users, covering both commercial and residential designs and products. Part 1 provides anthropometric data of children from birth to age 18; offers dimensions for typical objects within the child's built environment; synthesizes the Consumer Product…

Health Education: Effects on Classroom Climate and Physical Activity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Efstathiou, Nicholas T.; Risvas, Grigorios S.; Theodoraki, Eleni-Maria M.; Galanaki, Evangelia P.; Zampelas, Antonios D.

2016-01-01

Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between classroom psychological climate and the physical and sedentary behaviour of primary school students after the implementation of an innovative education programme regarding nutrition and physical activity. Design: Randomised controlled trial. Setting: Study…

Digital implementation of a neural network for imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wood, Richard; McGlashan, Alex; Yatulis, Jay; Mascher, Peter; Bruce, Ian

2012-10-01

This paper outlines the design and testing of a digital imaging system that utilizes an artificial neural network with unsupervised and supervised learning to convert streaming input (real time) image space into parameter space. The primary objective of this work is to investigate the effectiveness of using a neural network to significantly reduce the information density of streaming images so that objects can be readily identified by a limited set of primary parameters and act as an enhanced human machine interface (HMI). Many applications are envisioned including use in biomedical imaging, anomaly detection and as an assistive device for the visually impaired. A digital circuit was designed and tested using a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) and an off the shelf digital camera. Our results indicate that the networks can be readily trained when subject to limited sets of objects such as the alphabet. We can also separate limited object sets with rotational and positional invariance. The results also show that limited visual fields form with only local connectivity.

Digital Based Media Design: The Innovative Contribution of Design Graduates from Vocational and Higher Education Sectors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Doloswala, Kalika Navin; Thompson, Darrall; Toner, Phillip

2013-01-01

Design is increasingly being recognised as a key source of competitive advantage in the innovation economy of many countries. The key objective of this research was to understand the contribution by design graduates to creative industries innovative activities. Primary research was conducted to understand barriers and limitations of graduate…

Career Development in Primary School Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nazli, Serap

2007-01-01

Purpose: This paper has three objectives. The first is to determine the level of primary school students' career development, the second is to test Super's childhood years career development model, and the third is to determine the level of Turkish children's career development. Design/methodology/approach: Employing qualitative research models,…

Life and Utilization Criteria Identification in Design (LUCID). Volume II

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-10-01

AFWAL-.TR.412101 VOLUME Iff LIFE AND UTILIZATION CRITERIA IDENTIFICATION oIN DESIGN , VOLUME I[ SMcDonnell Aircraft Company SMcDonnell Douglas... design , a complexinteractive air- craft/engine design effort is conducted. The primary objective of the Life and Utilization Criteria Identification in... Design (LUCID) Program was to develop and demonstrate techniques which will aid in identifying, during conceptual design , balanced and consistent

Design of MSR primary circuit with minimum pressure losses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noga, Tomáš; Žitek, Pavel; Valenta, Václav

This article describes a design of a MSR primary circuit with minimum pressure losses. It includes a brief description of this type of a reactor and its integral layout, properties, purpose, etc. The objective of this paper is to define problems of pressure losses calculation and to design a proper device for a primary circuit of MSR reactor, including its basic dimensions. Thanks to this, it can become an initial project for a construction of a real piece of work. This is the main contribution of the carried out study. Of course, this article is not a detailed solution, but it points out facts and problems, which future designers may have to face. The further step of our work will be a reconstruction of the current experiment for a two-stage flowing.

Bilevel formulation of a policy design problem considering multiple objectives and incomplete preferences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hawthorne, Bryant; Panchal, Jitesh H.

2014-07-01

A bilevel optimization formulation of policy design problems considering multiple objectives and incomplete preferences of the stakeholders is presented. The formulation is presented for Feed-in-Tariff (FIT) policy design for decentralized energy infrastructure. The upper-level problem is the policy designer's problem and the lower-level problem is a Nash equilibrium problem resulting from market interactions. The policy designer has two objectives: maximizing the quantity of energy generated and minimizing policy cost. The stakeholders decide on quantities while maximizing net present value and minimizing capital investment. The Nash equilibrium problem in the presence of incomplete preferences is formulated as a stochastic linear complementarity problem and solved using expected value formulation, expected residual minimization formulation, and the Monte Carlo technique. The primary contributions in this article are the mathematical formulation of the FIT policy, the extension of computational policy design problems to multiple objectives, and the consideration of incomplete preferences of stakeholders for policy design problems.

Test plan. GCPS task 7, subtask 7.1: IHM development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Greenberg, H. S.

1994-01-01

The overall objective of Task 7 is to identify cost-effective life cycle integrated health management (IHM) approaches for a reusable launch vehicle's primary structure. Acceptable IHM approaches must: eliminate and accommodate faults through robust designs, identify optimum inspection/maintenance periods, automate ground and on-board test and check-out, and accommodate and detect structural faults by providing wide and localized area sensor and test coverage as required. These requirements are elements of our targeted primary structure low cost operations approach using airline-like maintenance by exception philosophies. This development plan will follow an evolutionary path paving the way to the ultimate development of flight-quality production, operations, and vehicle systems. This effort will be focused on maturing the recommended sensor technologies required for localized and wide area health monitoring to a technology readiness level (TRL) of 6 and to establish flight ready system design requirements. The following is a brief list of IHM program objectives: design out faults by analyzing material properties, structural geometry, and load and environment variables and identify failure modes and damage tolerance requirements; design in system robustness while meeting performance objectives (weight limitations) of the reusable launch vehicle primary structure; establish structural integrity margins to preclude the need for test and checkout and predict optimum inspection/maintenance periods through life prediction analysis; identify optimum fault protection system concept definitions combining system robustness and integrity margins established above with cost effective health monitoring technologies; and use coupons, panels, and integrated full scale primary structure test articles to identify, evaluate, and characterize the preferred NDE/NDI/IHM sensor technologies that will be a part of the fault protection system.

Maternal weight in the postpartum: results from the Delta Healthy Sprouts trial

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Objective: The primary objective was to determine if women enrolled in a lifestyle enhanced maternal, infant, and early childhood home visiting (MIECHV) program had more favorable weight outcomes through 12 months postpartum compared to women randomized to a standard MIECHV program. Design: Delta...

Presentation Annotated

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ditto, Thomas

2017-01-01

This Report is not the latest word on an old idea but the first word on a new one. The new idea reverses the old one, the axiom that the best primary objective for an astronomical telescope exhibits the least chromatic aberration. That axiomatic distinction goes back to a young Isaac Newton who knew from experiments with prisms and mirrors in the 1660's that magnification with a reflection primary was completely free of the dispersion he saw with refraction. The superiority of reflection primary objectives for eyeball or photographic viewing is now considered obvious. It was this piece of wisdom on achromatic primary objectives that led to the dominance of the parabolic mirror as the means to collect star light. Newton was aware of the problem when he introduced his telescope to the scientific world in 1670.This Report is not the latest word on an old idea but the first word on a new one. The new idea reverses the old one, the axiom that the best primary objective for an astronomical telescope exhibits the least chromatic aberration. That axiomatic distinction goes back to a young Isaac Newton who knew from experiments with prisms and mirrors in the 1660's that magnification with a reflection primary was completely free of the dispersion he saw with refraction. The superiority of reflection primary objectives for eyeball or photographic viewing is now considered obvious. Actually, Newton's design innovation was in a secondary mirror, a plane mirror far more easily fabricated than Gregory's embodiment of 1663 which required two curved mirrors.

LIFE CYCLE DESIGN OF A FUEL TANK SYSTEM

EPA Science Inventory

This life cycle design (LCD) project was a collaborative effort between the National Pollution Prevention Center at the University of Michigan, General Motors (GM), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The primary objective of this project was to apply life cyc...

Design and evaluation of a single-span bridge using ultra-high performance concrete.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-09-01

"Research presented herein describes an application of a newly developed material called Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) to a : single-span bridge. The two primary objectives of this research were to develop a shear design procedure for possib...

Design and evaluation of a single-span bridge using ultra-high performance concrete.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-09-01

Research presented herein describes an application of a newly developed material called Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) to a : single-span bridge. The two primary objectives of this research were to develop a shear design procedure for possibl...

Calibration of the AASHTO pavement design guide to South Carolina conditions - phase I : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-07-20

The primary objective of this research was to identify existing historical data (i.e., climate, traffic, : pavement design information, material properties, and pavement performance) within the SCDOT for use : in the local calibration of the Mechanis...

Review and assessment of designated driver programs as an alcohol countermeasure approach

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1987-02-01

Many drinking establishments have instituted designated driver programs (DDPs) which encourage one person in a group of patrons to remain sober and drive the others home. The primary objectives of this exploratory study were to: 1) identify DDPs thro...

Proof testing a bridge deck design with glass fiber reinforced polymer bars as top mat of reinforcement.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-01-01

The primary objective of this project was to test a full-scale prototype of a bridge deck design containing glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars as the top mat of reinforcement. The test deck mimics the design of the deck of one span of the new...

Evaluating Effects of Developmental Education for College Students Using a Regression Discontinuity Design

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moss, Brian G.; Yeaton, William H.

2013-01-01

Background: Annually, American colleges and universities provide developmental education (DE) to millions of underprepared students; however, evaluation estimates of DE benefits have been mixed. Objectives: Using a prototypic exemplar of DE, our primary objective was to investigate the utility of a replicative evaluative framework for assessing…

13 CFR 124.402 - How does a Participant develop a business plan?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... Participant must develop a comprehensive business plan setting forth its business targets, objectives, and... future plans to enter into one or more new markets; (2) The applicant's designation of its primary... the concern from receiving and performing non-8(a) contracts; (5) Specific targets, objectives, and...

13 CFR 124.402 - How does a Participant develop a business plan?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... Participant must develop a comprehensive business plan setting forth its business targets, objectives, and... future plans to enter into one or more new markets; (2) The applicant's designation of its primary... the concern from receiving and performing non-8(a) contracts; (5) Specific targets, objectives, and...

13 CFR 124.402 - How does a Participant develop a business plan?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Participant must develop a comprehensive business plan setting forth its business targets, objectives, and... future plans to enter into one or more new markets; (2) The applicant's designation of its primary... the concern from receiving and performing non-8(a) contracts; (5) Specific targets, objectives, and...

13 CFR 124.402 - How does a Participant develop a business plan?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... Participant must develop a comprehensive business plan setting forth its business targets, objectives, and... future plans to enter into one or more new markets; (2) The applicant's designation of its primary... the concern from receiving and performing non-8(a) contracts; (5) Specific targets, objectives, and...

Neptune aerocapture mission and spacecraft design overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bailey, Robert W.; Hall, Jeff L.; Spliker, Tom R.; O'Kongo, Nora

2004-01-01

A detailed Neptune aerocapture systems analysis and spacecraft design study was performed as part of NASA's In-Space Propulsion Program. The primary objectives were to assess the feasibility of a spacecraft point design for a Neptune/Triton science mission. That uses aerocapture as the Neptune orbit insertion mechanism. This paper provides an overview of the science, mission and spacecraft design resulting from that study.

Methodology of phase II clinical trials in metastatic elderly breast cancer: a literature review.

PubMed

Cabarrou, B; Mourey, L; Dalenc, F; Balardy, L; Kanoun, D; Roché, H; Boher, J M; Rougé-Bugat, M E; Filleron, Thomas

2017-08-01

As the incidence of invasive breast cancer will increase with age, the number of elderly patients with a diagnosis metastatic breast cancer will also rise. But the use of cytotoxic drugs in elderly metastatic breast cancer patients is not systematic and is dreaded by medical oncologists. The need for prospective oncologic data from this population seems increasingly obvious. The main objective of this review is to investigate design and characteristics of phase II trials that assess activity and feasibility of chemotherapies in elderly advanced/metastatic breast cancer patients. An electronic search in PUBMED allowed us to retrieve articles published in English language on phase II trials in elderly metastatic breast cancer between January 2002 and May 2016. Sixteen publications were finally included in this review. The primary endpoint was a simple, a composite, and a co-primary endpoints in 11, three, and two studies, respectively. Efficacy was the primary objective in 15 studies: simple (n = 10), composite (n = 3), co-primary endpoints (n = 2). Composite or co-primary endpoints combined efficacy and toxicity. Thirteen studies used multistage designs. Only five studies evaluated the feasibility, i.e., to jointly assess efficacy and tolerance to treatment (toxicity, quality of life, etc) as primary endpoint. Development of elderly specific phase III clinical trials might be challenging, it therefore seems essential to conduct phase II clinical trials evaluating jointly efficacy and toxicity in a well-defined geriatric population. Use of multistage designs that take into account heterogeneity would allow to identify a subpopulation at interim analysis and to reduce the number of patients exposed to an inefficient or a toxic treatment regimen. It is crucial to evaluate new therapies (targeted therapies, immunotherapies) using adequate methodologies (Study design, endpoint).

Physical Education in Primary Schools: Classroom Teachers' Perceptions of Benefits and Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morgan, Philip J.; Hansen, Vibeke

2008-01-01

Objective: The aim of the current study was to examine the perceptions of classroom teachers regarding the benefits and outcomes of their PE programs. Design: Cross-sectional. Setting: Thirty eight randomly selected primary schools in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Method: A mixed-mode methodology was utilized, incorporating semi-structured…

Parental Views of Food-Safety Education in a Japanese Primary School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Horikawa, Haruka; Akamatsu, Rie; Horiguchi, Itsuko; Marui, Eiji

2013-01-01

Objective: This study examined Japanese mothers' satisfaction with food-safety education in primary schools, compared the characteristics of mothers who were not satisfied, and identified topics that should be included in food-safety education, according to mothers. Design: An online survey was conducted in March 2011 in Japan. The questionnaire…

Evaluating the Implementation of an Emotional Wellbeing Programme for Primary School Children Using Participatory Approaches

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clarke, Aleisha M.; Sixsmith, Jane; Barry, Margaret M.

2015-01-01

Objective: This paper reports on the use of child participatory approaches to evaluate the implementation and impact of the "Zippy's Friends" emotional wellbeing programme on children in disadvantaged primary schools in Ireland. Design: As part of the overall evaluation study, which comprised a clustered randomised controlled trial,…

Design development of graphite primary structures enables SSTO success

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biagiotti, V. A.; Yahiro, J. S.; Suh, Daniel E.; Hodges, Eric R.; Prior, Donald J.

1997-01-01

This paper describes the development of a graphite composite wing and a graphite composite intertank primary structure for application toward Single-Stage to Orbit space vehicles such as those under development in NASA's X-33/Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Program. The trade study and designs are based on a Rockwell vertical take-off and horizontal landing (VTHL) wing-body RLV vehicle. Northrop Grumman's approach using a building block development technique is described. Composite Graphite/Bismaleimide (Gr/BMI) material characterization test results are presented. Unique intertank and wing composite subcomponent test article designs are described and test results to date are presented. Wing and intertank Full Scale Section Test Article (FSTA) objectives and designs are outlined. Trade studies, supporting building block testing, and FSTA demonstrations combine to develop graphite primary structure composite technology that enables developing X-33/RLV design programs to meet critical SSTO structural weight and operations performance criteria.

An overview of current Navy programs to develop thrust augmenting ejectors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Green, K. A.

1979-01-01

The primary objective of Navy sponsored research in thrust augmentation is the development of an improved augmenter for V/STOL application. In support of this goal, a data base is being established to provide an accurate prediction capability for use in ejector design. A general technology development of ejectors and associated effects presently is split into the more specific areas of lift and control, since thrust augmenting ejectors may be suitable for both. Research areas examined include advanced diffuser and end wall design; advanced primary nozzles; analytic studies; augmenting reaction controls; and nozzle design.

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

NONE

The primary objective of this project is to establish the commercial readiness of MW-class IMHEX Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell power plants. Progress is described on marketing, systems design and analysis, product options and manufacturing.

Infant growth outcomes from birth to 12 months of age: findings from the Delta Healthy Sprouts comparative impact trial

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Objective: Multicomponent lifestyle modification interventions designed for gestational and early postnatal periods may be key to preventing obesity in children. The primary objective of the study was to determine if infant growth outcomes differed between treatment arms of an 18-month, maternal, i...

Teacher Preparation: A High Intensity Integrated Social Studies Summer Program in a Clinical Setting.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Van Cleaf, David W.; And Others

This paper describes and evaluates a summer program in teacher education--Summer Adventure in Learning (SAIL). The project's major objective was to help preservice teachers design educational materials which would improve the reading accuracy and comprehension of their students. Primary objectives of project SAIL were to provide field-based…

Cluster Supervision Practices in Primary School of Jimma Zone

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Afework, E. A.; Frew, A. T.; Abeya, G. G.

2017-01-01

The main objective of this study was to assess the supervisory practice of cluster resource centre (CRC) supervisors in Jimma Zone primary schools. To achieve this purpose, the descriptive survey design was employed. Data were collected from 238 randomly selected teachers, and 60 school principals with a response rate of 98.6%. Moreover, 12 CRC…

Developing Strategic and Reasoning Abilities with Computer Games at Primary School Level

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bottino, R. M.; Ferlino, L.; Ott, M.; Tavella, M.

2007-01-01

The paper reports a small-scale, long-term pilot project designed to foster strategic and reasoning abilities in young primary school pupils by engaging them in a number of computer games, mainly those usually called mind games (brainteasers, puzzlers, etc.). In this paper, the objectives, work methodology, experimental setting, and tools used in…

Contemporary Primary Science Curricula in the United Kingdom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henry, John A.

1976-01-01

Following a review of the impact of Piaget's theories of cognitive development on science curriculum design, the evolution and development of the Science 5/13 Project, designed to extend the work of Nuffield Junior Science Project, is described. Evaluation studies assessing the aims and objectives of this project are detailed. (BT)

Introducing the Pressure-Sensing Palatograph--The Next Frontier in Electropalatography

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Murdoch, Bruce; Goozee, Justine; Veidt, Martin; Scott, Dion; Meyers, Ian

2004-01-01

Primary Objective. To extend the capabilities of current electropalatography (EPG) systems by developing a pressure-sensing EPG system. An initial trial of a prototype pressure-sensing palate will be presented. Research Design. The processes involved in designing the pressure sensors are outlined, with Hall effect transistors being selected. These…

Redesign and Evaluation of a Patient Assessment Course

PubMed Central

Sobieraj, Diana M.; McCaffrey, Desmond; Lee, Jennifer J.

2009-01-01

Objectives To redesign a patient assessment course using a structured instructional design process and evaluate student learning. Design Course coordinators collaborated with an instructional design and development expert to incorporate new pedagogical approaches (eg, Web-based self-tests), create new learning activities (eg, peer collaboration on worksheets, SOAP note writing), and develop grading rubrics. Assessment Formative and summative surveys were administered for student self-assessment and course evaluation. Seventy-six students (78%) completed the summative survey. The mean course grade was 91.8% ± 3.6%, with more than 75% of students reporting achievement of primary course learning objectives. All of the additional learning activities helped students meet the learning objectives with the exception of the written drug information response. Conclusion The use of a structured instructional design process to redesign a patient assessment course was successful in creating a curriculum that succeeded in teaching students the specified learning objectives. Other colleges and schools are encouraged to collaborate with an instructional design and development expert to improve the pharmacy curriculum. PMID:19960090

Exploration Technology Developments Program's Radiation Hardened Electronics for Space Environments (RHESE) Project Overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keys, Andrew S.; Adams, James H.; Darty, Ronald C.; Patrick, Marshall C.; Johnson, Michael A.; Cressler, John D.

2008-01-01

Primary Objective: 1) A computational tool to accurately predict electronics performance in the presence of space radiation in support of spacecraft design: a) Total dose; b) Single Event Effects; and c) Mean Time Between Failure. (Developed as successor to CR ME96.) Secondary Objectives: 2) To provide a detailed description of the natural radiation environment in support of radiation health and instrument design: a) In deep space; b) Inside the magnetosphere; and c) Behind shielding.

LUTE primary mirror materials and design study report

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruthven, Greg

1993-02-01

The major objective of the Lunar Ultraviolet Telescope Experiment (LUTE) Primary Mirror Materials and Design Study is to investigate the feasibility of the LUTE telescope primary mirror. A systematic approach to accomplish this key goal was taken by first understanding the optical, thermal, and structural requirements and then deriving the critical primary mirror-level requirements for ground testing, launch, and lunar operations. After summarizing the results in those requirements which drove the selection of material and the design for the primary mirror are discussed. Most important of these are the optical design which was assumed to be the MSFC baseline (i.e. 3 mirror optical system), telescope wavefront error (WFE) allocations, the telescope weight budget, and the LUTE operational temperature ranges. Mechanical load levels, reflectance and microroughness issues, and options for the LUTE metering structure were discussed and an outline for the LUTE telescope sub-system design specification was initiated. The primary mirror analysis and results are presented. The six material substrate candidates are discussed and four distinct mirror geometries which are considered are shown. With these materials and configurations together with varying the location of the mirror support points, a total of 42 possible primary mirror designs resulted. The polishability of each substrate candidate was investigated and a usage history of 0.5 meter and larger precision cryogenic mirrors (the operational low end LUTE temperature of 60 K is the reason we feel a survey of cryogenic mirrors is appropriate) that were flown or tested are presented.

LUTE primary mirror materials and design study report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ruthven, Greg

1993-01-01

The major objective of the Lunar Ultraviolet Telescope Experiment (LUTE) Primary Mirror Materials and Design Study is to investigate the feasibility of the LUTE telescope primary mirror. A systematic approach to accomplish this key goal was taken by first understanding the optical, thermal, and structural requirements and then deriving the critical primary mirror-level requirements for ground testing, launch, and lunar operations. After summarizing the results in those requirements which drove the selection of material and the design for the primary mirror are discussed. Most important of these are the optical design which was assumed to be the MSFC baseline (i.e. 3 mirror optical system), telescope wavefront error (WFE) allocations, the telescope weight budget, and the LUTE operational temperature ranges. Mechanical load levels, reflectance and microroughness issues, and options for the LUTE metering structure were discussed and an outline for the LUTE telescope sub-system design specification was initiated. The primary mirror analysis and results are presented. The six material substrate candidates are discussed and four distinct mirror geometries which are considered are shown. With these materials and configurations together with varying the location of the mirror support points, a total of 42 possible primary mirror designs resulted. The polishability of each substrate candidate was investigated and a usage history of 0.5 meter and larger precision cryogenic mirrors (the operational low end LUTE temperature of 60 K is the reason we feel a survey of cryogenic mirrors is appropriate) that were flown or tested are presented.

Adherence to a Depression Self-Care Intervention among Primary Care Patients with Chronic Physical Conditions: A Randomised Controlled Trial

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McCusker, Jane; Cole, Martin G.; Yaffe, Mark; Strumpf, Erin; Sewitch, Maida; Sussman, Tamara; Ciampi, Antonio; Lavoie, Kim; Belzile, Eric

2016-01-01

Objective: Among primary care patients with chronic physical conditions and comorbid depressive symptoms, to assess (1) the effect of lay telephone coaching on adherence to a psycho-educational intervention for depression, (2) demographic characteristics that predict adherence and (3) the association between adherence and 6-month outcomes. Design:…

An Experimental Project on Energy Education for Rural Women, Primary School Children and Teachers Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pathak, Yogini; Mankodi, Hina

One of the University of Baroda's (India) Rural/Tribal Block Placement Program's major aims during the year 1988-89 was to develop energy consciousness in women, primary school children and teachers. An experimental project was designed for a rural Indian village. The objectives were to obtain information on rural energy resources; assess the role…

Teacher's Guide to Canal. The Middlesex Canal: A Role Playing Exercise.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holmes, Cary W.; Tedesco, Paul H.

The document consists of a role-playing game and related teacher's guide designed to illustrate decision-making processes leading to the building of the Middlesex Canal in Massachusetts in 1793. The primary educational objective is to involve students in the decision-making process through role play. The game is designed to facilitate…

Design of a Personnel and Training Information System for Educational R&D Personnel. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hood, Paul D.; McCutchan, Nancy A.

The primary objective of this project was to design a system to provide information services that would fulfill the information requirements of federal planners, instructional material developers, training program directors and instructors, students, interns, employers, and practitioners concerned with problems relating to personnel and training…

24 CFR 1003.208 - Criteria for compliance with the primary objective.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... considered is the creation or retention of jobs except as provided in paragraph (b)(4) of this section.) To... households. (d) Job creation or retention activities. An activity designed to create or retain permanent jobs.... (4) An activity designed to provide job training and placement and/or other employment support...

Evaluation Design, 1978-1979. Local/State Bilingual Education Evaluation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weibly, Gary; And Others

The evaluation design of the 1978-79 local/state bilingual education program of Austin Independent School District is presented. The primary focus of the evaluation is the assessment of the objectives in language development and concept development submitted to the Texas Education Agency. A secondary focus is the collection of information related…

Automated biowaste sampling system urine subsystem operating model, part 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fogal, G. L.; Mangialardi, J. K.; Rosen, F.

1973-01-01

The urine subsystem automatically provides for the collection, volume sensing, and sampling of urine from six subjects during space flight. Verification of the subsystem design was a primary objective of the current effort which was accomplished thru the detail design, fabrication, and verification testing of an operating model of the subsystem.

Design development of graphite primary structures enables SSTO success

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

Biagiotti, V.A.; Yahiro, J.S.; Suh, D.E.

1997-01-01

This paper describes the development of a graphite composite wing and a graphite composite intertank primary structure for application toward Single-Stage to Orbit space vehicles such as those under development in NASA{close_quote}s X-33/Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) Program. The trade study and designs are based on a Rockwell vertical take-off and horizontal landing (VTHL) wing-body RLV vehicle. Northrop Grumman{close_quote}s approach using a building block development technique is described. Composite Graphite/Bismaleimide (Gr/BMI) material characterization test results are presented. Unique intertank and wing composite subcomponent test article designs are described and test results to date are presented. Wing and intertank Full Scale Sectionmore » Test Article (FSTA) objectives and designs are outlined. Trade studies, supporting building block testing, and FSTA demonstrations combine to develop graphite primary structure composite technology that enables developing X-33/RLV design programs to meet critical SSTO structural weight and operations performance criteria. {copyright} {ital 1997 American Institute of Physics.}« less

Design and Development of High Voltage Direct Current (DC) Sources for the Solar Array Module Plasma Interaction Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bibyk, Irene K.; Wald, Lawrence W.

1995-01-01

Two programmable, high voltage DC power supplies were developed as part of the flight electronics for the Solar Array Module Plasma Interaction Experiment (SAMPIE). SAMPIE's primary objectives were to study and characterize the high voltage arcing and parasitic current losses of various solar cells and metal samples within the space plasma of low earth orbit (LEO). High voltage arcing can cause large discontinuous changes in spacecraft potential which lead to damage of the power system materials and significant Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). Parasitic currents cause a change in floating potential which lead to reduced power efficiency. These primary SAMPIE objectives were accomplished by applying artificial biases across test samples over a voltage range from -600 VDC to +300 VDC. This paper chronicles the design, final development, and test of the two programmable high voltage sources for SAMPIE. The technical challenges to the design for these power supplies included vacuum, space plasma effects, thermal protection, Shuttle vibrations and accelerations.

Conceptual design of a lunar oxygen pilot plant Lunar Base Systems Study (LBSS) task 4.2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

The primary objective was to develop conceptual designs of two pilot plants to produce oxygen from lunar materials. A lunar pilot plant will be used to generate engineering data necessary to support an optimum design of a larger scale production plant. Lunar oxygen would be of primary value as spacecraft propellant oxidizer. In addition, lunar oxygen would be useful for servicing nonregenerative fuel cell power systems, providing requirements for life support, and to make up oxygen losses from leakage and airlock cycling. Thirteen different lunar oxygen production methods are described. Hydrogen reduction of ilmenite and extraction of solar-wind hydrogen from bulk lunar soil were selected for conceptual design studies. Trades and sensitivity analyses were performed with these models.

Historical trend in the research and development of aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spearman, M. L.

1981-01-01

Results are presented from a study of aircraft design trends undertaken to determine the relationship between research, development, test and evaluation and aircraft mission capability, requirements and objectives. It is shown that while in some cases a performance objective was the primary research driver, research was the driver in the formulation of objectives in others. Among the topics discussed are: (1) speed considerations such as compressibility, propulsion and test techniques; (2) airframe considerations such as swept, delta, trapezoidal and variable-sweep planforms and mission commonality; (3) research aircraft; (4) the recent impact of computer-aided design; (5) Soviet aircraft development approaches and (6) a comparison of Soviet and U.S. military aircraft design trends. Attention is given to experimental and prototype aircraft programs which, although cancelled, anticipated significant subsequent developments.

Design principles and algorithms for automated air traffic management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Erzberger, Heinz

1995-01-01

This paper presents design principles and algorithm for building a real time scheduler. The primary objective of the scheduler is to assign arrival aircraft to a favorable landing runway and schedule them to land at times that minimize delays. A further objective of the scheduler is to allocate delays between high altitude airspace far from the airport and low altitude airspace near the airport. A method of delay allocation is described that minimizes the average operating cost in the presence of errors in controlling aircraft to a specified landing time.

Small Schools Mathematics Curriculum, K-3: Reading, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies. Scope, Objectives, Activities, Resources, Monitoring Procedures.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hartl, David, Ed.; And Others

Developed during 1975-76 by 40 primary teachers and 10 elementary principals from 12 small school districts in 2 Washington counties and first used during 1976-77 in more than 20 districts, this K-3 mathematics curriculum is designed to assist district compliance with Washington's Student Learning Objectives (SLO) Law, which requires…

Small Schools Student Learning Objectives, K-8: Reading, Language Arts, Mathematics. K-3; Science, Social Studies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hartl, David, Ed.; And Others

Developed by 40 primary teachers and 10 elementary principals from small school districts in Washington, this handbook contains sequenced student learning objectives for grades K-3 in science and social studies and for grades K-8 in reading, language arts, and mathematics. The handbook is designed to assist teachers with the improvement of…

"If Michael Owen Drinks It, Why Can't I? "--9 and 10 Year Olds' Perceptions of Physical Activity and Healthy Eating

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gosling, Rachael; Stanistreet, Debbi; Swami, Viren

2008-01-01

Objective: To explore the perceptions of physical activity and healthy eating among children from two north west of England primary schools, with the ultimate aim of improving healthy lifestyle choices. Design: A qualitative study in which each child participated in two focus groups. Setting: Two primary schools in a deprived ward of Warrington,…

An Educational Resource on Water and Health as a Teaching Aid in French Primary Schools--Part II: Design and Validation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Savanovitch, Chantal; Sauvant-Rochat, Marie-Pierre

2013-01-01

An educational resource on water and health, using an approach focused on health education and environmental health education, was developed to help teachers in the classroom. The implementation of health education programs in French primary schools is explained. Three specific objectives were identified, targeting 3rd, 4th, and 5th year pupils:…

Applying a Participatory Design Approach to Define Objectives and Properties of a “Data Profiling” Tool for Electronic Health Data

PubMed Central

Estiri, Hossein; Lovins, Terri; Afzalan, Nader; Stephens, Kari A.

2016-01-01

We applied a participatory design approach to define the objectives, characteristics, and features of a “data profiling” tool for primary care Electronic Health Data (EHD). Through three participatory design workshops, we collected input from potential tool users who had experience working with EHD. We present 15 recommended features and characteristics for the data profiling tool. From these recommendations we derived three overarching objectives and five properties for the tool. A data profiling tool, in Biomedical Informatics, is a visual, clear, usable, interactive, and smart tool that is designed to inform clinical and biomedical researchers of data utility and let them explore the data, while conveniently orienting the users to the tool’s functionalities. We suggest that developing scalable data profiling tools will provide new capacities to disseminate knowledge about clinical data that will foster translational research and accelerate new discoveries. PMID:27570651

[Primary Health Care in Austria - Tu Felix Austria nube - Concept for networking in the primary care of Upper Austria].

PubMed

Kriegel, Johannes; Rebhandl, Erwin; Hockl, Wolfgang; Stöbich, Anna-Maria

2017-10-01

The primary health care in rural areas in Austria is currently determined by challenges such as ageing of the population, the shift towards chronic and age-related illnesses, the specialist medical and hospital-related education and training of physicians' as well growing widespread difficulty of staffing doctor's office. The objective is to realize a general practitioner centered and team-oriented primary health care (PHC) approach by establishing networked primary health care in rural areas of Austria. Using literature research, online survey, expert interviews and expert workshops, we identified different challenges in terms of primary health care in rural areas. Further, current resources and capacities of primary health care in rural areas were identified using the example of the district of Rohrbach. Twelve design dimensions and 51 relevant measurement indicators of a PHC network were delineated and described. Based on this, 12 design approaches of PHC concept for the GP-centered and team-oriented primary health care in rural areas have been developed.

Children's Perceptions of Illness and Health: An Analysis of Drawings

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mouratidi, Paraskevi-Stavroula; Bonoti, Fotini; Leondari, Angeliki

2016-01-01

Objective: The purpose of this study was to explore possible age differences in children's perceptions of illness and health and to what extent these differ from adults' perceptions. Design: Cross-sectional design. Setting: Selected nursery and primary schools in Greece. Method: The sample consisted of 347 children aged 5-11 years and 114…

Design of a Slotted, Natural-Laminar-Flow Airfoil for Business-Jet Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Somers, Dan M.

2012-01-01

A 14-percent-thick, slotted, natural-laminar-flow airfoil, the S204, for light business-jet applications has been designed and analyzed theoretically. The two primary objectives of high maximum lift, relatively insensitive to roughness, and low profile drag have been achieved. The drag-divergence Mach number is predicted to be greater than 0.70.

HEALTHY study rationale, design and methods: Moderating risk of type 2 diabetes in multi-ethnic middle school students

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The HEALTHY primary prevention trial was designed and implemented in response to the growing numbers of children and adolescents being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The objective was to moderate risk factors for type 2 diabetes. Modifiable risk factors measured were indicators of adiposity and gly...

Enhancing Engineering Computer-Aided Design Education Using Lectures Recorded on the PC

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McGrann, Roy T. R.

2006-01-01

Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) is a course that is required during the third year in the mechanical engineering curriculum at Binghamton University. The primary objective of the course is to educate students in the procedures of computer-aided engineering design. The solid modeling and analysis program Pro/Engineer[TM] (PTC[R]) is used as the…

Algorithmic Mechanism Design of Evolutionary Computation.

PubMed

Pei, Yan

2015-01-01

We consider algorithmic design, enhancement, and improvement of evolutionary computation as a mechanism design problem. All individuals or several groups of individuals can be considered as self-interested agents. The individuals in evolutionary computation can manipulate parameter settings and operations by satisfying their own preferences, which are defined by an evolutionary computation algorithm designer, rather than by following a fixed algorithm rule. Evolutionary computation algorithm designers or self-adaptive methods should construct proper rules and mechanisms for all agents (individuals) to conduct their evolution behaviour correctly in order to definitely achieve the desired and preset objective(s). As a case study, we propose a formal framework on parameter setting, strategy selection, and algorithmic design of evolutionary computation by considering the Nash strategy equilibrium of a mechanism design in the search process. The evaluation results present the efficiency of the framework. This primary principle can be implemented in any evolutionary computation algorithm that needs to consider strategy selection issues in its optimization process. The final objective of our work is to solve evolutionary computation design as an algorithmic mechanism design problem and establish its fundamental aspect by taking this perspective. This paper is the first step towards achieving this objective by implementing a strategy equilibrium solution (such as Nash equilibrium) in evolutionary computation algorithm.

Algorithmic Mechanism Design of Evolutionary Computation

PubMed Central

2015-01-01

We consider algorithmic design, enhancement, and improvement of evolutionary computation as a mechanism design problem. All individuals or several groups of individuals can be considered as self-interested agents. The individuals in evolutionary computation can manipulate parameter settings and operations by satisfying their own preferences, which are defined by an evolutionary computation algorithm designer, rather than by following a fixed algorithm rule. Evolutionary computation algorithm designers or self-adaptive methods should construct proper rules and mechanisms for all agents (individuals) to conduct their evolution behaviour correctly in order to definitely achieve the desired and preset objective(s). As a case study, we propose a formal framework on parameter setting, strategy selection, and algorithmic design of evolutionary computation by considering the Nash strategy equilibrium of a mechanism design in the search process. The evaluation results present the efficiency of the framework. This primary principle can be implemented in any evolutionary computation algorithm that needs to consider strategy selection issues in its optimization process. The final objective of our work is to solve evolutionary computation design as an algorithmic mechanism design problem and establish its fundamental aspect by taking this perspective. This paper is the first step towards achieving this objective by implementing a strategy equilibrium solution (such as Nash equilibrium) in evolutionary computation algorithm. PMID:26257777

Optimizing DER Participation in Inertial and Primary-Frequency Response

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

Dall-Anese, Emiliano; Zhao, Changhong; Guggilam, Swaroop

This paper develops an approach to enable the optimal participation of distributed energy resources (DERs) in inertial and primary-frequency response alongside conventional synchronous generators. Leveraging a reduced-order model description of frequency dynamics, DERs' synthetic inertias and droop coefficients are designed to meet time-domain performance objectives of frequency overshoot and steady-state regulation. Furthermore, an optimization-based method centered around classical economic dispatch is developed to ensure that DERs share the power injections for inertial- and primary-frequency response in proportion to their power ratings. Simulations for a modified New England test-case system composed of ten synchronous generators and six instances of the IEEEmore » 37-node test feeder with frequency-responsive DERs validate the design strategy.« less

Effects of aggregate angularity on mix design characteristics and pavement performance.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-12-01

This research targeted two primary purposes: to estimate current aggregate angularity test methods and to evaluate current : aggregate angularity requirements in the Nebraska asphalt mixture/pavement specification. To meet the first research : object...

Concrete crosstie fastener sub-system testing and modeling.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-02-10

The primary objective of this project is to identify methods of improving concrete railroad crosstie fastening system design and performance by conducting a thorough investigation of the behavior of the fastening system using Finite Element Analysis ...

Development of an Object-Oriented Turbomachinery Analysis Code within the NPSS Framework

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, Scott M.

2014-01-01

During the preliminary or conceptual design phase of an aircraft engine, the turbomachinery designer has a need to estimate the effects of a large number of design parameters such as flow size, stage count, blade count, radial position, etc. on the weight and efficiency of a turbomachine. Computer codes are invariably used to perform this task however, such codes are often very old, written in outdated languages with arcane input files, and rarely adaptable to new architectures or unconventional layouts. Given the need to perform these kinds of preliminary design trades, a modern 2-D turbomachinery design and analysis code has been written using the Numerical Propulsion System Simulation (NPSS) framework. This paper discusses the development of the governing equations and the structure of the primary objects used in OTAC.

Affordable Design: A Methodolgy to Implement Process-Based Manufacturing Cost into the Traditional Performance-Focused Multidisciplinary Design Optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bao, Han P.; Samareh, J. A.

2000-01-01

The primary objective of this paper is to demonstrate the use of process-based manufacturing and assembly cost models in a traditional performance-focused multidisciplinary design and optimization process. The use of automated cost-performance analysis is an enabling technology that could bring realistic processbased manufacturing and assembly cost into multidisciplinary design and optimization. In this paper, we present a new methodology for incorporating process costing into a standard multidisciplinary design optimization process. Material, manufacturing processes, and assembly processes costs then could be used as the objective function for the optimization method. A case study involving forty-six different configurations of a simple wing is presented, indicating that a design based on performance criteria alone may not necessarily be the most affordable as far as manufacturing and assembly cost is concerned.

Perceptions of Teachers Regarding Technology Integration in Classrooms: A Comparative Analysis of Elite and Mediocre Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zehra, Rida; Bilwani, Anam

2016-01-01

The primary purpose and objective of this study was to examine and compare the perceptions of teachers in elite and mediocre schools in Karachi. The secondary objectives included comparing the use of technology in classrooms by teachers and the challenges and barriers that they face in the integration of technology. This study was designed as a…

Energy performance evaluation of AAC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aybek, Hulya

The U.S. building industry constitutes the largest consumer of energy (i.e., electricity, natural gas, petroleum) in the world. The building sector uses almost 41 percent of the primary energy and approximately 72 percent of the available electricity in the United States. As global energy-generating resources are being depleted at exponential rates, the amount of energy consumed and wasted cannot be ignored. Professionals concerned about the environment have placed a high priority on finding solutions that reduce energy consumption while maintaining occupant comfort. Sustainable design and the judicious combination of building materials comprise one solution to this problem. A future including sustainable energy may result from using energy simulation software to accurately estimate energy consumption and from applying building materials that achieve the potential results derived through simulation analysis. Energy-modeling tools assist professionals with making informed decisions about energy performance during the early planning phases of a design project, such as determining the most advantageous combination of building materials, choosing mechanical systems, and determining building orientation on the site. By implementing energy simulation software to estimate the effect of these factors on the energy consumption of a building, designers can make adjustments to their designs during the design phase when the effect on cost is minimal. The primary objective of this research consisted of identifying a method with which to properly select energy-efficient building materials and involved evaluating the potential of these materials to earn LEED credits when properly applied to a structure. In addition, this objective included establishing a framework that provides suggestions for improvements to currently available simulation software that enhance the viability of the estimates concerning energy efficiency and the achievements of LEED credits. The primary objective was accomplished by using conducting several simulation models to determine the relative energy efficiency of wood-framed, metal-framed, and Aerated Autoclaved Concrete (AAC) wall structures for both commercial and residential buildings.

READING DIAGNOSTIC APPROACHES.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

PURDY, ROBERT J.; AND OTHERS

A DIAGNOSTIC KIT DESIGNED TO HELP CLASSROOM TEACHERS DIAGNOSE READING DIFFICULTIES MORE ADEQUATELY AND MOTIVATE PUPILS MORE EFFECTIVELY IS PRESENTED. SUGGESTIONS ARE APPLICABLE TO LOWER PRIMARY CHILDREN. DIAGNOSTIC TECHNIQUES ARE OUTLINED FOR SUBJECTIVE AND OBJECTIVE OBSERVATION OF LANGUAGE ABILITY, VISUAL PERCEPTION SKILLS, AUDITORY…

Developing a Decision Support System for Tobacco Use Counseling Using Primary Care Physicians

PubMed Central

Marcy, Theodore W.; Kaplan, Bonnie; Connolly, Scott W.; Michel, George; Shiffman, Richard N.; Flynn, Brian S.

2009-01-01

Background Clinical decision support systems (CDSS) have the potential to improve adherence to guidelines, but only if they are designed to work in the complex environment of ambulatory clinics as otherwise physicians may not use them. Objective To gain input from primary care physicians in designing a CDSS for smoking cessation to ensure that the design is appropriate to a clinical environment before attempts to test this CDSS in a clinical trial. This approach is of general interest to those designing similar systems. Design and Approach We employed an iterative ethnographic process that used multiple evaluation methods to understand physician preferences and workflow integration. Using results from our prior survey of physicians and clinic managers, we developed a prototype CDSS, validated content and design with an expert panel, and then subjected it to usability testing by physicians, followed by iterative design changes based on their feedback. We then performed clinical testing with individual patients, and conducted field tests of the CDSS in two primary care clinics during which four physicians used it for routine patient visits. Results The CDSS prototype was substantially modified through these cycles of usability and clinical testing, including removing a potentially fatal design flaw. During field tests in primary care clinics, physicians incorporated the final CDSS prototype into their workflow, and used it to assist in smoking cessation interventions up to eight times daily. Conclusions A multi-method evaluation process utilizing primary care physicians proved useful for developing a CDSS that was acceptable to physicians and patients, and feasible to use in their clinical environment. PMID:18713526

Optimization-based scatter estimation using primary modulation for computed tomography

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

Chen, Yi; Ma, Jingchen; Zhao, Jun, E-mail: junzhao

Purpose: Scatter reduces the image quality in computed tomography (CT), but scatter correction remains a challenge. A previously proposed primary modulation method simultaneously obtains the primary and scatter in a single scan. However, separating the scatter and primary in primary modulation is challenging because it is an underdetermined problem. In this study, an optimization-based scatter estimation (OSE) algorithm is proposed to estimate and correct scatter. Methods: In the concept of primary modulation, the primary is modulated, but the scatter remains smooth by inserting a modulator between the x-ray source and the object. In the proposed algorithm, an objective function ismore » designed for separating the scatter and primary. Prior knowledge is incorporated in the optimization-based framework to improve the accuracy of the estimation: (1) the primary is always positive; (2) the primary is locally smooth and the scatter is smooth; (3) the location of penumbra can be determined; and (4) the scatter-contaminated data provide knowledge about which part is smooth. Results: The simulation study shows that the edge-preserving weighting in OSE improves the estimation accuracy near the object boundary. Simulation study also demonstrates that OSE outperforms the two existing primary modulation algorithms for most regions of interest in terms of the CT number accuracy and noise. The proposed method was tested on a clinical cone beam CT, demonstrating that OSE corrects the scatter even when the modulator is not accurately registered. Conclusions: The proposed OSE algorithm improves the robustness and accuracy in scatter estimation and correction. This method is promising for scatter correction of various kinds of x-ray imaging modalities, such as x-ray radiography, cone beam CT, and the fourth-generation CT.« less

Qualitative Evaluation of the Design Variables of a Teaching Intervention to Expose Accounting Students to Pervasive Skills

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Viviers, Herman Albertus

2016-01-01

The primary objective of this article is to evaluate the design variables of a newly developed teaching intervention, "The Amazing Tax Race". It comprises a race against time in which accounting students participate within teams in multiple tax-related activities so that they are exposed to pervasive skills. The findings provide…

Demand for Agricultural Extension Services among Small-Scale Maize Farmers: Micro-Level Evidence from Kenya

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gido, Eric O.; Sibiko, Kenneth W.; Ayuya, Oscar I.; Mwangi, Joseph K.

2015-01-01

Purpose: The objective of the study was to determine the level and determinants of demand for extension services among small-scale maize farmers in Kenya. Design/methodology/approach: Based on an exploratory research design, primary data were collected from a sample of 352 households through face-to-face interviews. Focus group discussions were…

Solar System Science with the Twinkle Space Mission

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bowles, N.; Lindsay, S.; Tessenyi, M.; Tinetti, G.; Savini, G.; Tennyson, J.; Pascale, E.; Jason, S.; Vora, A.

2017-09-01

Twinkle is a space-based telescope mission designed for the spectroscopic observation (0.4 to 4.5 μm) of exoplanet atmospheres and Solar System objects. The system design and mission implementation are based on existing, well studied concepts pioneered by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd for low-Earth orbit Earth Observation satellites, supported by a novel international access model to allow facility access to researchers worldwide. Whilst Twinkle's primary science goal is the observation of exoplanet atmospheres its wide spectroscopic range and photometric stability also make it a unique platform for the observation of Solar system objects.

An Exploratory Investigation of a Slotted, Natural-Laminar-Flow Airfoil

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Somers, Dan M.

2012-01-01

A 15-percent-thick, slotted, natural-laminar-flow (SNLF) airfoil, the S103, for general aviation applications has been designed and analyzed theoretically and verified experimentally in the Langley Low-Turbulence Pressure Tunnel. The two primary objectives of high maximum lift and low profile drag have been achieved. The constraints on the pitching moment and the airfoil thickness have been satisfied. The airfoil exhibits a rapid stall, which does not meet the design goal. Comparisons of the theoretical and experimental results show good agreement. Comparison with the baseline, NASA NLF(1)-0215F airfoil confirms the achievement of the objectives.

Challenges Facing Early Phase Trials Sponsored by the National Cancer Institute: An Analysis of Corrective Action Plans to Improve Accrual

PubMed Central

Massett, Holly A.; Mishkin, Grace; Rubinstein, Larry; Ivy, S. Percy; Denicoff, Andrea; Godwin, Elizabeth; DiPiazza, Kate; Bolognese, Jennifer; Zwiebel, James A.; Abrams, Jeffrey S.

2016-01-01

Accruing patients in a timely manner represents a significant challenge to early phase cancer clinical trials. The NCI Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program analyzed 19 months of corrective action plans (CAPs) received for slow-accruing Phase 1 and 2 trials to identify slow accrual reasons, evaluate whether proposed corrective actions matched these reasons, and assess the CAP impact on trial accrual, duration, and likelihood of meeting primary scientific objectives. Of the 135 CAPs analyzed, 69 were for Phase 1 trials and 66 for Phase 2 trials. Primary reasons cited for slow accrual were safety/toxicity (Phase 1: 48%), design/protocol concerns (Phase 1: 42%, Phase 2: 33%), and eligibility criteria (Phase 1: 41%, Phase 2: 35%). The most commonly proposed corrective actions were adding institutions (Phase 1: 43%, Phase 2: 85%) and amending the trial to change eligibility or design (Phase 1: 55%, Phase 2: 44%). Only 40% of CAPs provided proposed corrective actions that matched the reasons given for slow accrual. Seventy percent of trials were closed to accrual at time of analysis (Phase 1=48; Phase 2=46). Of these, 67% of Phase 1 and 70% of Phase 2 trials met their primary objectives, but they were active three times longer than projected. Among closed trials, 24% had an accrual rate increase associated with a greater likelihood of meeting their primary scientific objectives. Ultimately, trials receiving CAPs saw improved accrual rates. Future trials may benefit from implementing CAPs early in trial lifecycles, but it may be more beneficial to invest in earlier accrual planning. PMID:27401246

Aircraft Engine Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Veres, Joseph

2001-01-01

This report outlines the detailed simulation of Aircraft Turbofan Engine. The objectives were to develop a detailed flow model of a full turbofan engine that runs on parallel workstation clusters overnight and to develop an integrated system of codes for combustor design and analysis to enable significant reduction in design time and cost. The model will initially simulate the 3-D flow in the primary flow path including the flow and chemistry in the combustor, and ultimately result in a multidisciplinary model of the engine. The overnight 3-D simulation capability of the primary flow path in a complete engine will enable significant reduction in the design and development time of gas turbine engines. In addition, the NPSS (Numerical Propulsion System Simulation) multidisciplinary integration and analysis are discussed.

Evaluation of safe performance secondary school driver education curriculum demonstration project

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1983-06-01

The primary objective of this Project was to determine the crash reduction potential of a quality, competency-based driver training program known as the Safe Performance Curriculum (SPC). The experimental design called for the random assignment of 18...

GROUND WATER ISSUE: DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR CONVENTIONAL PUMP-AND-TREAT SySTEMS

EPA Science Inventory

Containment and cleanup of contaminated ground water are among the primary objectives of the CERCLA (Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act; also known as Superfund) and RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) remediation programs. Ground-...

Study of elastomeric bearings for superelevated U-Beam bridges.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-10-01

The primary objective of this research was to determine the best way to consider the effects of transverse : superelevation on uniform-height steel-reinforced elastomeric bearing pads for U-Beam bridges. Existing TxDOT : design provisions did not spe...

Verification and implementation of set-up empirical models in pile design : research project capsule.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-08-01

The primary objectives of this research include: performing static and dynamic load tests on : newly instrumented test piles to better understand the set-up mechanism for individual soil : layers, verifying or recalibrating previously developed empir...

Improving Health-care Delivery for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: An Interrelated Approach Leveraging Systems Engineering and Optimization

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-01

AND EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN ..........................................................................................................31   1...PRIMARY RESERCH QUESTION ............................................................41   C.   OBJECTIVE ACHIEVEMENT...Based Outpatient Clinic CPT Cognitive Processing Therapy DISE Distributed Information Systems Experimentation EBT Evidence-Based Treatment GMC

Locomotive Crash Energy Management Coupling Tests

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2018-04-18

This paper describes the results of the CEM equipped locomotive coupling tests. In this set of tests, a moving CEM locomotive was coupled to a standing cab car. The primary objective was to demonstrate the robustness of the PBC design and determine t...

Sporadic Jakob-Creutzfeldt Disease Presenting as Primary Progressive Aphasia

PubMed Central

Johnson, David Y.; Dunkelberger, Diana L.; Henry, Maya; Haman, Aissatou; Greicius, Michael D.; Wong, Katherine; DeArmond, Stephen J.; Miller, Bruce L.; Gorno-Tempini, Maria Luisa; Geschwind, Michael D.

2015-01-01

Objective To report the clinical, neuropsychological, linguistic, imaging, and neuropathological features of a unique case of sporadic Jakob-Creutzfeldt disease in which the patient presented with a logopenic variant of primary progressive aphasia. Design Case report. Setting Large referral center for atypical memory and aging disorders, particularly Jakob-Creutzfeldt disease. Patient Patient presenting with logopenic variant primary progressive aphasia initially thought to be due to Alzheimer disease. Results Despite the long, slow 3.5-year course, the patient was shown to have pathology-proven sporadic Jakob-Creutzfeldt disease. Conclusions These findings expand the differential of primary progressive aphasia to include prion disease. PMID:23400721

SSBRP User Operations Facility (UOF) Overview and Development Strategy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Picinich, Lou; Stone, Thom; Sun, Charles; Windrem, May; Givens, John J. (Technical Monitor)

1995-01-01

This paper will present the Space Station Biological Research Project (SSBRP) User Operations Facility (UOF) architecture and development strategy. A major element of the UOF at NASA Ames Research Center, the Communication and Data System (CDS) will be the primary focus of the discussions. CDS operational, telescience, security, and development objectives will be discussed along with CDS implementation strategy. The implementation strategy discussions will include: Object Oriented Analysis & Design, System & Software Prototyping, and Technology Utilization. A CDS design overview that includes: CDS Context Diagram, CDS Architecture, Object Models, Use Cases, and User Interfaces will also be presented. CDS development brings together "cutting edge" technologies and techniques such as: object oriented development, network security, multimedia networking, web-based data distribution, JAVA, and graphical user interfaces. Use of these "cutting edge" technologies and techniques translates directly to lower development and operations costs.

Titan/Centaur D-1TTC-5 Helios B flight data report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adams, K. A.

1976-01-01

The fourth operational flight of the newest NASA unmanned launch vehicle is reported. The spacecraft was the Helios B, the second of two solar probes designed and built by the Federal Republic of Germany. The primary mission objective, to place the Helios spacecraft on a heliocentric orbit in the ecliptic plane with a perihelion distance of 0.29 AU, was successfully accomplished. After successful injection of the Helios spacecraft, a series of experiments were performed with the Centaur stage to demonstrate its operational capabilities. All objectives of the extended mission phase were successfully met. This report presents the analysis of the launch vehicle flight data for the primary mission phase of the TC-5 flight.

Large Advanced Space Systems (LASS) computer-aided design program additions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Farrell, C. E.

1982-01-01

The LSS preliminary and conceptual design requires extensive iteractive analysis because of the effects of structural, thermal, and control intercoupling. A computer aided design program that will permit integrating and interfacing of required large space system (LSS) analyses is discussed. The primary objective of this program is the implementation of modeling techniques and analysis algorithms that permit interactive design and tradeoff studies of LSS concepts. Eight software modules were added to the program. The existing rigid body controls module was modified to include solar pressure effects. The new model generator modules and appendage synthesizer module are integrated (interfaced) to permit interactive definition and generation of LSS concepts. The mass properties module permits interactive specification of discrete masses and their locations. The other modules permit interactive analysis of orbital transfer requirements, antenna primary beam n, and attitude control requirements.

Dynamic/Jitter Assessment of Multiple Potential HabEx Structural Designs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Knight, J. Brent; Stahl, H. Philip; Singleton, Andy; Hunt, Ron; Therrell, Melissa; Caldwell, Kate; Garcia, Jay; Baysinger, Mike

2017-01-01

One of the driving structural requirements of the Habitable Exo-Planet (HabEx) telescope is to maintain Line Of Sight (LOS) stability between the Primary Mirror (PM) and Secondary Mirror (SM) of = 5 mas. Dynamic analyses of two configurations of a proposed (HabEx) 4 meter off-axis telescope structure were performed to predict effects of jitter on primary/secondary mirror alignment. The dynamic disturbance used as the forcing function was the James Webb Space Telescope reaction wheel assembly vibration emission specification level. The objective of these analyses was to predict "order-of-magnitude" performance for various structural configurations which will roll into efforts to define the HabEx structural design's global architecture. Two variations of the basic architectural design were analyzed. Relative motion between the PM and the SM for each design configuration are reported.

Dynamic/jitter assessment of multiple potential HabEx structural designs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knight, J. Brent; Stahl, H. Philip; Singleton, Andy; Hunt, Ron; Therrell, Melissa; Caldwell, Kate; Garcia, Jay; Baysinger, Mike

2017-09-01

One of the driving structural requirements of the Habitable Exo-Planet (HabEx) telescope is to maintain Line Of Sight (LOS) stability between the Primary Mirror (PM) and Secondary Mirror (SM) of <= 5 milli-arc seconds (mas). Dynamic analyses of two configurations of a proposed HabEx 4 meter off-axis telescope structure were performed to predict effects of a vibration input on primary/secondary mirror alignment. The dynamic disturbance used as the forcing function was the James Webb Space Telescope reaction wheel assembly vibration emission specification level. The objective of these analyses was to predict "order-of-magnitude" performance for various structural configurations which contribute to efforts in defining the HabEx structural design's global architecture. Two variations of the basic architectural design were analyzed. Relative motion between the PM and the SM for each design configuration are reported.

Design and fabrication of metallic thermal protection systems for aerospace vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Varisco, A.; Bell, P.; Wolter, W.

1978-01-01

A program was conducted to develop a lightweight, efficient metallic thermal protection system (TPS) for application to future shuttle-type reentry vehicles, advanced space transports, and hypersonic cruise vehicles. Technical requirements were generally derived from the space shuttle. A corrugation-stiffened beaded-skin TPS design was used as a baseline. The system was updated and modified to incorporate the latest technology developments and design criteria. The primary objective was to minimize mass for the total system.

Afro-Caribbean and African American Students, Family Factors, and the Influence on Science Performance in the United States: The Untold Story

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pinder, Patrice Juliet

2012-01-01

The primary objectives of this research were to explore achievement pattern differences and the influence of family factors on the achievement patterns of Afro-Caribbean and African American students within the United States (U.S.). The study utilized two research designs; a causal-comparative and a correlational design. A student family…

Understanding Adherence to 5 Servings of Fruits and Vegetables per Day: A Theory of Planned Behavior Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blanchard, Chris M.; Fisher, Janet; Sparling, Phillip B.; Shanks, Tiffany Hunt; Nehl, Eric; Rhodes, Ryan E.; Courneya, Kerry S.; Baker, Frank

2009-01-01

Objective: The primary purpose of the present study was to examine the utility of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in explaining the 5-A-Day intentions and behavior of college students. A secondary purpose was to determine whether any of the TPB relationships were moderated by gender or ethnicity. Design: A prospective design that asked…

Optical design of free-form surface two-mirror telescopic objective with ultrawide field of view

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Qinghan; Zhou, Zhengping; Jin, Yangming; Shen, Weimin

2016-10-01

Compact off-axial two-mirror fore objective with an ultra wide ground coverage and for spaceborne pushbroom imaging spectrometers is studied and designed. Based on Gaussian optics and Young's formulas, the approach to determine its initial structural parameters is presented. In order to meet the required performance, freeform surfaces are used to increase the degree of freedom of our optimization. And the impact of various X-Y polynomials on its pupil aberration is analyzed for elimination of too large smile effect. As an example, an off-axis two-mirror fore telescopic objective with field of view of 108° across-pushbroom direction, F number of 10, focal length of 34 mm and working wavelength range from 0.27 to 2.4 μm is optimally designed, which both the primary and the secondary mirrors have freeform surface. The designed lens has many advantages of simple and compact structure, imagery telecentricity, near diffraction-limited imaging quality, and small smile effect.

Bearing capacity analysis and design of highway base materials reinforced with geofabrics.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2005-06-01

The primary objective of this study was to develop and implement mathematical bearing capacity models originally proposed by Hopkins (1988, 1991) and Slepak and Hopkins (1993; 1995). These advanced models, which are based on limit equilibrium and are...

Direct RF A-O Processor Spectrum Analyzer.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-08-01

The primary objective was to develop and demonstrate design approach, along with the associated processing technologies, for a wideband acousto optic Bragg...cell spectrum analyzer. The signal processor used to demonstrate feasibility of the technical approach consisted of two bulk wave acousto optic deflectors

Evaluation of the gyratory compactor for use in designing asphaltic concrete mixtures : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1966-12-01

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the gyratory kneading compactor and to investigate the possibilities and capabilities of this type of equipment. : Curves were developed for six different asphaltic concrete mixes with varying compa...

APT-ALF testing at LTRC in Louisiana : summary report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-09-01

As an integral part of Study 0-6132, the primary objectives of this task included the following: : 1) To validate the new generation mix-design procedure (balanced) under APT testing using the ALF machine. : 2) To compare the HMA mix performance desi...

Alternative and cost-effective bridge approach slabs.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2010-10-01

The primary objectives of the proposed project are to investigate the causes for any bumps at the end of the bridge approach slab : and to develop remedial measures or alternative designs for a replacement. It is clear that the problem stems from geo...

Wrap-Attack Pack: Product Packaging Exercise

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, Seung Hwan; Hoffman, K. Douglas

2016-01-01

Although many marketing courses discuss traditional concepts pertaining to product strategy, concepts specifically relating to packaging are often glossed over. This exercise, "Wrap-Attack Pack," teaches students about the utilitarian and hedonic design elements of packaging. More specifically, the primary objective is to creatively…

Nuclear density evaluation on asphaltic concrete: final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1967-04-01

This study was one of two studies designated as Research Project 62-1SB to evaluate the use of nuclear devices in highway construction. (1) The primary objective of this study was to evaluate a nuclear density device for obtaining densities on asphal...

Design and Development of the Observation and Analysis of Smectic Islands in Space Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, Nancy Rabel; Tin, Padetha; Sheehan, C. C.; Stannarius, R.; Trittel, T.; Clark, N.; Maclennan, J.; Glaser, M.; Park, C.

2012-01-01

The primary objective of Observation and Analysis of Smectic Islands in Space (OASIS) experiment is to exploit the unique characteristics of freely suspended liquid crystals in a microgravity environment to advance the understanding of fluid state physics

Evaluation of waste concrete road materials for use in oyster aquaculture.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-02-01

The primary objective of this study was to determine the suitability of recycled concrete : aggregate (RCA) from road projects as bottom conditioning material for on-bottom oyster : aquaculture in the Chesapeake Bay. The testing was designed to (1) e...

[Educational project for raising awareness of food hygiene in infant schools].

PubMed

Kempf, Dimitri; Malinic, Caroline; Menoud, Mathilde; Rousseau, Aurore; Savoy, Camille

2018-01-01

Five students from a nursing training institute designed an educational initiative aimed at infant school pupils. The objective of this primary prevention intervention was to raise children's awareness of food hygiene. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

STS-45 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1992-01-01

The STS-45 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the vehicle subsystem operations during the forty-sixth flight of the Space Shuttle Program and the eleventh flight of the Orbiter Vehicle Atlantis (OV-104). In addition to the Atlantis vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of the following: an External Tank (ET) designated as ET-44 (LWT-37); three Space Shuttle main engines (SSME's), which were serial numbers 2024, 2012, and 2028 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB's) designated as BI-049. The lightweight redesigned Solid Rocket Motors (RSRM's) installed in each of the SRB's were designated as 360L021A for the left SRM and 360W021B for the right SRM. The primary objective of this mission was to successfully perform the planned operations of the Atmospheric Laboratory for Applications and Science-1 (ATLAS-1) and the Shuttle Solar Backscatter Ultraviolet Instrument (SSBUV) payloads. The secondary objectives were to successfully perform all operations necessary to support the requirements of the following: the Space Tissue Loss-01 (STL-01) experiment; the Radiation Monitoring Equipment-3 (RME-3) experiment; the Visual Function Tester-2 (VFT-2) experiment; the Cloud Logic to Optimize use of Defense System (CLOUDS-1A) experiment; the Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment 2 (SAREX-2) Configuration B; the Investigation into Polymer Membranes Processing experiment; and the Get-Away Special (GAS) payload G-229. The Ultraviolet Plume Instrument (UVPI) was a payload of opportunity that required no special maneuvers. In addition to the primary and secondary objectives, the crew was tasked to perform as many as 10 Development Test Objectives (DTO'S) and 14 Detailed Supplementary Objectives (DSO's).

STS-45 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1992-05-01

The STS-45 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the vehicle subsystem operations during the forty-sixth flight of the Space Shuttle Program and the eleventh flight of the Orbiter Vehicle Atlantis (OV-104). In addition to the Atlantis vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of the following: an External Tank (ET) designated as ET-44 (LWT-37); three Space Shuttle main engines (SSME's), which were serial numbers 2024, 2012, and 2028 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB's) designated as BI-049. The lightweight redesigned Solid Rocket Motors (RSRM's) installed in each of the SRB's were designated as 360L021A for the left SRM and 360W021B for the right SRM. The primary objective of this mission was to successfully perform the planned operations of the Atmospheric Laboratory for Applications and Science-1 (ATLAS-1) and the Shuttle Solar Backscatter Ultraviolet Instrument (SSBUV) payloads. The secondary objectives were to successfully perform all operations necessary to support the requirements of the following: the Space Tissue Loss-01 (STL-01) experiment; the Radiation Monitoring Equipment-3 (RME-3) experiment; the Visual Function Tester-2 (VFT-2) experiment; the Cloud Logic to Optimize use of Defense System (CLOUDS-1A) experiment; the Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment 2 (SAREX-2) Configuration B; the Investigation into Polymer Membranes Processing experiment; and the Get-Away Special (GAS) payload G-229. The Ultraviolet Plume Instrument (UVPI) was a payload of opportunity that required no special maneuvers. In addition to the primary and secondary objectives, the crew was tasked to perform as many as 10 Development Test Objectives (DTO'S) and 14 Detailed Supplementary Objectives (DSO's).

Primary care physicians' perceived barriers and facilitators to conservative care for older adults with chronic kidney disease: design of a mixed methods study.

PubMed

Tam-Tham, Helen; Hemmelgarn, Brenda; Campbell, David; Thomas, Chandra; Quinn, Robert; Fruetel, Karen; King-Shier, Kathryn

2016-01-01

Guideline committees have identified the need for research to inform the provision of conservative care for older adults with stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) who have a high burden of comorbidity or functional impairment. We will use both qualitative and quantitative methodologies to provide a comprehensive understanding of barriers and facilitators to care for these patients in primary care. Our objectives are to (1) interview primary care physicians to determine their perspectives of conservative care for older adults with stage 5 CKD and (2) survey primary care physicians to determine the prevalence of key barriers and facilitators to provision of conservative care for older adults with stage 5 CKD. A sequential exploratory mixed methods design was adopted for this study. The first phase of the study will involve fundamental qualitative description and the second phase will be a cross-sectional population-based survey. The research is conducted in Alberta, Canada. The participants are primary care physicians with experience in providing care for older adults with stage 5 CKD not planning on initiating dialysis. The first objective will be achieved by undertaking interviews with primary care physicians from southern Alberta. Participants will be selected purposively to include physicians with a range of characteristics (e.g., age, gender, and location of clinical practice). Interviews will be recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using conventional content analysis to generate themes. The second objective will be achieved by undertaking a population-based survey of primary care physicians in Alberta. The questionnaire will be developed based on the findings from the qualitative interviews and pilot tested for face and content validity. Physicians will be provided multiple options to complete the questionnaire including mail, fax, and online methods. Descriptive statistics and associations between demographic factors and barriers and facilitators to care will be analyzed using regression models. A potential limitation of this mixed methods study is its cross-sectional nature. This work will inform development of clinical resources and tools for care of older adults with stage 5 CKD, to address barriers and enable facilitators to community-based conservative care.

Thermal optimum design for tracking primary mirror of Space Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, Hai-jun; Ruan, Ping; Li, Fu; Wang, Hong-Wei

2011-08-01

In the conventional method, the structural parameters of primary mirror are usually optimized just by the requirement of mechanical performance. Because the influences of structural parameters on thermal stability are not taken fully into account in this simple method, the lightweight optimum design of primary mirror usually brings the bad thermal stability, especially in the complex environment. In order to obtain better thermal stability, a new method about structure-thermal optimum design of tracking primary mirror is discussed. During the optimum process, both the lightweight ratio and thermal stability will be taken into account. The structure-thermal optimum is introduced into the analysis process and commenced after lightweight design as the secondary optimum. Using the engineering analysis of software ANSYS, a parameter finite element analysis (FEA) model of mirror is built. On the premise of appropriate lightweight ratio, the RMS of structure-thermal deformation of mirror surface and lightweight ratio are assigned to be state variables, and the maximal RMS of temperature gradient load to be object variable. The results show that certain structural parameters of tracking primary mirror have different influences on mechanical performance and thermal stability, even they are opposite. By structure-thermal optimizing, the optimized mirror model discussed in this paper has better thermal stability than the old one under the same thermal loads, which can drastically reduce difficulty in thermal control.

First flush reactor for stormwater treatment for elevated linear transportation projects : technical summary.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-06-01

The primary objective of this study was to design and test a first flush-based stormwater treatment device for elevated linear transportation projects/roadways that is capable of complying with MS4 regulations. The innovative idea behind the device i...

Federal Aviation Administration Small Business Innovation Research 5- Year Project Summaries

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-02-01

Completed Project: The project’s two primary objectives were to further develop the technology base for the Slaved Tandem Freewing (STF) Airplance and...margins than conventional airplances , and can meet all applicable airworthiness requirements. Adaitionally, basic design parameters were developed

Comprehensive Career Education Curriculum Guide for the Trainable.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mulligan, Robert E.; And Others

Designed for use by teachers of the trainable mentally retarded, primary through postsecondary levels, this curriculum guide integrates development of verbal and written communication skills with the student's career development. The guide contains instructional objectives, suggested learning activities and teaching techniques, and information on…

[Design of an educational tool for Primary Care patients with chronic non-specific low back pain].

PubMed

Díaz-Cerrillo, Juan Luis; Rondón-Ramos, Antonio

2015-02-01

Current scientific evidence on the management of chronic non-specific low back pain highlights the benefits of physical exercise. This goal is frequently undermined due to lack of education of the subjects on the multifactorial, benign, and non-specific nature of low back pain, which can lead to a chronic disease with genuine psychosocial risk factors. Its influence may not only interfere with individual decision to adopt more adaptive coping behaviors, but also with the endogenous mechanisms of pain neuromodulation. Thus, the educational strategies and control of these factors have become important objectives to be incorporated into the management of the disorder and research guidelines. This paper presents the theoretical models and the scientific basis on which it has based the design of an educational tool for patients with chronic non-specific low back pain treated in Primary Care physiotherapy. Structure, content and objectives are also presented. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Breastfeeding-Friendly Erie County: Establishing the New York State Breastfeeding Friendly Practice Designation.

PubMed

Gregg, Deborah J; Prokorym, Megan; Dennison, Barbara A; Waniewski, Patricia

2015-11-01

Primary care providers play an important role in encouraging and counseling pregnant and postpartum women to successfully breastfeed. One objective of this 1-year grant was to establish the Breastfeeding Friendly Practice Designation criteria and process to identify and designate at least 5 primary care practices as New York State Breastfeeding Friendly Practices in a high-need, racially/ethnically diverse, urban county in New York with very low prevalence of breastfeeding initiation, exclusivity, and duration. A partnership between the New York State Department of Health and the P(2) Collaborative of Western New York and United Way of Buffalo & Erie County's Healthy Start Healthy Future for All Coalition facilitated the development of the New York State Ten Steps to a Breastfeeding Friendly Practice, accompanying implementation guide, designation criteria, and model office policies. Practice staff and providers received on-site training and materials and participated in a virtual learning network to share their experiences, celebrate successes, and overcome challenges in implementing system changes. Practice staff completed a self-assessment survey at baseline and after implementation of the Ten Steps and submitted their written office breastfeeding policy for review. Fourteen practices met the criteria for designation and were recognized by the New York State Health Commissioner. The number of practices designated as Breastfeeding Friendly far exceeded the grant objective. Future efforts are directed at expanding this initiative statewide and determining the impact of the designation on breastfeeding outcomes. © The Author(s) 2015.

Measuring primary care practice performance within an integrated delivery system: a case study.

PubMed

Stewart, Louis J; Greisler, David

2002-01-01

This article examines the use of an integrated performance measurement system to plan and control primary care service delivery within an integrated delivery system. We review a growing body of literature that focuses on the development and implementation of management reporting systems among healthcare providers. Our study extends the existing literature by examining the use of performance information generated by an integrated performance measurement system within a healthcare organization. We conduct our examination through a case study of the WMG Primary Care Medicine Group, the primary care medical group practice of WellSpan Health System. WellSpan Health System is an integrated delivery system that serves south central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. Our study examines the linkage between WellSpan Health's strategic objectives and its primary care medicine group's integrated performance measurement system. The conceptual design of this integrated performance measurement system combines financial metrics with practice management and clinical operating metrics to provide a more complete picture of medical group performance. Our findings demonstrate that WellSpan Health was able to achieve superior financial results despite a weak linkage between its integrated performance measurement system and its strategic objectives. WellSpan Health achieved this objective for its primary care medicine group by linking clinical performance information to physician compensation and reporting practice management performance through the use of statistical process charts. They found that the combined mechanisms of integrated performance measurement and statistical process control charts improved organizational learning and communications between organizational stakeholders.

A Clinical Nutrition Course to Improve Pharmacy Students' Skills and Confidence in Counseling Patients

PubMed Central

Popovich, Nicholas G.; Iramaneerat, Cherdsak; Smith, Everett V.; Lutfiyya, M. Nawal

2008-01-01

Objective To create, implement, and evaluate a PharmD course on primary care nutrition. Design A 2-credit hour elective course was offered to second- and third-year pharmacy students. It was informed by the Socratic method using a minimum number of formal lecture presentations and featured problem-based learning exercises, case-based scenarios, and scientific literature to fuel informed debate. A single group posttest design with a retrospective pretest was used to assess students' self-efficacy. Assessment There was a significant overall improvement in students' self-efficacy in their ability to practice primary care nutrition. Conclusion Completion of a nutrition course improved students' confidence in providing primary care nutrition and empowered them to speak more comfortably about the role of nutrition in the prevention of chronic diseases. PMID:18698396

Integrated system design report

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

Not Available

1989-07-01

The primary objective of the integrated system test phase is to demonstrate the commercial potential of a coal fueled diesel engine in its actual operating environment. The integrated system in this project is defined as a coal fueled diesel locomotive. This locomotive, shown on drawing 41D715542, is described in the separate Concept Design Report. The test locomotive will be converted from an existing oil fueled diesel locomotive in three stages, until it nearly emulates the concept locomotive. Design drawings of locomotive components (diesel engine, locomotive, flatcar, etc.) are included.

STARPROBE: A design study for an X-ray imaging instrument

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1981-01-01

The primary objective of the X-ray imaging telescope on STARPROBE is the acquisition of very high spacial resolution observations during the spacecraft's perihelion passage. Design parameters, telescope prefilters, and structural and thermal analyses of the equipment are described and discussed. It is believed that the spatial resolution of the information recorded by the baseline design would be at least a factor of 10 better than can be reasonably expected from Earth orbit. Thermal models used in the study are also discussed.

Challenges Facing Early Phase Trials Sponsored by the National Cancer Institute: An Analysis of Corrective Action Plans to Improve Accrual.

PubMed

Massett, Holly A; Mishkin, Grace; Rubinstein, Larry; Ivy, S Percy; Denicoff, Andrea; Godwin, Elizabeth; DiPiazza, Kate; Bolognese, Jennifer; Zwiebel, James A; Abrams, Jeffrey S

2016-11-15

Accruing patients in a timely manner represents a significant challenge to early phase cancer clinical trials. The NCI Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program analyzed 19 months of corrective action plans (CAP) received for slow-accruing phase I and II trials to identify slow accrual reasons, evaluate whether proposed corrective actions matched these reasons, and assess the CAP impact on trial accrual, duration, and likelihood of meeting primary scientific objectives. Of the 135 CAPs analyzed, 69 were for phase I trials and 66 for phase II trials. Primary reasons cited for slow accrual were safety/toxicity (phase I: 48%), design/protocol concerns (phase I: 42%, phase II: 33%), and eligibility criteria (phase I: 41%, phase II: 35%). The most commonly proposed corrective actions were adding institutions (phase I: 43%, phase II: 85%) and amending the trial to change eligibility or design (phase I: 55%, phase II: 44%). Only 40% of CAPs provided proposed corrective actions that matched the reasons given for slow accrual. Seventy percent of trials were closed to accrual at time of analysis (phase I = 48; phase II = 46). Of these, 67% of phase I and 70% of phase II trials met their primary objectives, but they were active three times longer than projected. Among closed trials, 24% had an accrual rate increase associated with a greater likelihood of meeting their primary scientific objectives. Ultimately, trials receiving CAPs saw improved accrual rates. Future trials may benefit from implementing CAPs early in trial life cycles, but it may be more beneficial to invest in earlier accrual planning. Clin Cancer Res; 22(22); 5408-16. ©2016 AACRSee related commentary by Mileham and Kim, p. 5397. ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Real-time tracking of objects for a KC-135 microgravity experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Littlefield, Mark L.

1994-01-01

The design of a visual tracking system for use on the Extra-Vehicular Activity Helper/Retriever (EVAHR) is discussed. EVAHR is an autonomous robot designed to perform numerous tasks in an orbital microgravity environment. Since the ability to grasp a freely translating and rotating object is vital to the robot's mission, the EVAHR must analyze range image generated by the primary sensor. This allows EVAHR to locate and focus its sensors so that an accurate set of object poses can be determined and a grasp strategy planned. To test the visual tracking system being developed, a mathematical simulation was used to model the space station environment and maintain dynamics on the EVAHR and any other free floating objects. A second phase of the investigation consists of a series of experiments carried out aboard a KC-135 aircraft flying a parabolic trajectory to simulate microgravity.

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

McDonald, J R; Murray, R

High winds tend to pick up and transport various objects and debris, which are referred to as wind-borne missiles or tornado missiles, depending on the type of storm. Missiles cause damage by perforating the building envelope or by collapsing structural elements such as walls, columns or frames. The primary objectives of this study are as follows: (1) to provide a basis for wind-borne or tornado missile criteria for the design and evaluation of DOE facilities, and (2) to provide guidelines for the design and evaluation of impact-resistant missile barriers for DOE facilities The first objective is accomplished through a synthesismore » of information from windstorm damage documentation experience and computer simulation of missile trajectories. The second objective is accomplished by reviewing the literature, which describes various missile impact tests, and by conducting a series of impact tests at a Texas Tech University facility to fill in missing information.« less

The Effect of a Computer Program Designed with Constructivist Principles for College Non-Science Majors on Understanding of Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wielard, Valerie Michelle

2013-01-01

The primary objective of this project was to learn what effect a computer program would have on academic achievement and attitude toward science of college students enrolled in a biology class for non-science majors. It became apparent that the instructor also had an effect on attitudes toward science. The researcher designed a computer program,…

Flat-field anastigmatic mirror objective for high-magnification extreme ultraviolet microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toyoda, Mitsunori

2015-08-01

To apply high-definition microscopy to the extreme ultraviolet (EUV) region in practice, i.e. to enable in situ observation of living tissue and the at-wavelength inspection of lithography masks, we constructed a novel reflective objective made of three multilayer mirrors. This objective is configured as a two-stage imaging system made of a Schwarzschild two-mirror system as the primary objective and an additional magnifier with a single curved mirror. This two-stage configuration can provide a high magnification of 1500, which is suitable for real-time observation with an EUV charge coupled device (CCD) camera. Besides, since off-axis aberrations can be corrected by the magnifier, which provides field flattener optics, we are able to configure the objective as a flat-field anastigmatic system, in which we will have a diffraction-limited spatial resolution over a large field-of-view. This paper describes in detail the optical design of the present objective. After calculating the closed-form equations representing the third-order aberrations of the objective, we apply these equations to practical design examples with a numerical aperture of 0.25 and an operation wavelength of 13.5 nm. We also confirm the imaging performances of this novel design by using the numerical ray-tracing method.

Design and Test of Fan/Nacelle Models Quiet High-Speed Fan Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Christopher J. (Technical Monitor); Repp, Russ; Gentile, David; Hanson, David; Chunduru, Srinivas

2003-01-01

The primary objective of the Quiet High-Speed Fan (QHSF) program was to develop an advanced high-speed fan design that will achieve a 6 dB reduction in overall fan noise over a baseline configuration while maintaining similar performance. The program applies and validates acoustic, aerodynamic, aeroelastic, and mechanical design tools developed by NASA, US industry, and academia. The successful fan design will be used in an AlliedSignal Engines (AE) advanced regional engine to be marketed in the year 2000 and beyond. This technology is needed to maintain US industry leadership in the regional turbofan engine market.

OPTIMIZING BIOVENTING IN SHALLOW VADOSE ZONES AND COLD CLIMATES

EPA Science Inventory

This paper describes a bioventing study design and initial activities applied to a JP-4 jet fuel spill at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The primary objectives of the project were to investigate the feasibility of using bioventing technology to remediate JP-4 jet fuel contaminat...

Intelligent Transportation Systems, The National Architecture, A Framework For Integrated Transportation Into The 21St Century

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1985-08-01

The primary objective of this study was to determine if freeway lighting can be reduced or eliminated during nighttime periods when traffic volume is much lower than design capacity without causing significant reductions in the ability of drivers to ...

Prototype design of a collision protection system for cab car engineers.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-03-01

The objective of this project was to develop and analyze a passive system to protect a cab car engineer from secondary impact injuries that might be experienced due to impact with the cab console. The primary requirement for the system was the abilit...

Life Education for Mentally Impaired Persons: A Curriculum Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Koscierzynski, Sandy, Ed.; Karpen, Mary Lou, Ed.

The curriculum manual is designed to develop positive and healthy sexuality for mentally impaired individuals. Information on goals, objectives, special notes, suggested vocabulary, suggested activities, and resources is presented for units in primary education (realistic body image, toilet habits, sex differences, families, emotional self and…

Monitoring of in-service geosynthetic reinforced soil (GRS) bridge abutments in Louisiana : research project capsule.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-09-01

The primary objectives of this research are to monitor the : short-term and long-term behavior and performance of inservice : GRS-IBS abutments in the state of Louisiana, and to : verify important design factors and parameters for GRS-IBS : abutment,...

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Cataclysmic Binaries, LMXBs, and related objects (Ritter+, 2003)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ritter, H.; Kolb, U.

2004-03-01

Cataclysmic Binaries are semi-detached binaries consisting of a white dwarf or a white dwarf precursor primary and a low-mass secondary which is filling its critical Roche lobe. The secondary is not necessarily unevolved, it may even be a highly evolved star as for example in the case of the AM CVn-type stars. Low-Mass X-Ray Binaries are semi-detached binaries consisting of either a neutron star or a black hole primary, and a low-mass secondary which is filling its critical Roche lobe. Related Objects are detached binaries consisting of either a white dwarf or a white dwarf precursor primary and of a low-mass secondary. The secondary may also be a highly evolved star. The catalogue lists coordinates, apparent magnitudes, orbital parameters, stellar parameters of the components and other characteristic properties of 522 cataclysmic binaries, 75 low-mass X-ray binaries and 117 related objects with known or suspected orbital periods together with a comprehensive selection of the relevant recent literature. In addition the catalogue contains a list of references to published finding charts for 695 of the 714 objects. A cross-reference list of alias object designations concludes the catalogue. Literature published before 31 December 2003 has, as far as possible, been taken into account. This catalogue supersedes the 5th edition (catalogue ) and the updated lists by Ritter and Kolb (1995; catalogue ) (1998; catalogue ). (10 data files).

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Cataclysmic Binaries, LMXBs, and related objects (Ritter+, 2003)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ritter, H.; Kolb, U.

2005-03-01

Cataclysmic Binaries are semi-detached binaries consisting of a white dwarf or a white dwarf precursor primary and a low-mass secondary which is filling its critical Roche lobe. The secondary is not necessarily unevolved, it may even be a highly evolved star as for example in the case of the AM CVn-type stars. Low-Mass X-Ray Binaries are semi-detached binaries consisting of either a neutron star or a black hole primary, and a low-mass secondary which is filling its critical Roche lobe. Related Objects are detached binaries consisting of either a white dwarf or a white dwarf precursor primary and of a low-mass secondary. The secondary may also be a highly evolved star. The catalogue lists coordinates, apparent magnitudes, orbital parameters, stellar parameters of the components and other characteristic properties of 572 cataclysmic binaries, 80 low-mass X-ray binaries and 142 related objects with known or suspected orbital periods together with a comprehensive selection of the relevant recent literature. In addition the catalogue contains a list of references to published finding charts for 761 of the 794 objects. A cross-reference list of alias object designations concludes the catalogue. Literature published before 31 December 2004 has, as far as possible, been taken into account. This catalogue supersedes the 5th edition (catalogue ) and the updated lists by Ritter and Kolb (1995; catalogue ) (1998; catalogue ). (10 data files).

Design and analysis of aspherical multilayer imaging X-ray microscope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shealy, David L.; Jiang, WU; Hoover, Richard B.

1991-01-01

Spherical Schwarzschild microscopes for soft X-ray applications in microscopy and projection lithography employ two concentric spherical mirrors that are configured such that the third-order spherical aberration and coma are zero. Based on incoherent, sine-wave MTF calculations, the object-plane resolution of a magnification-factor-20 microscope is presently analyzed as a function of object height and numerical aperture of the primary for several spherical Schwarzschild, conic, and aspherical two-mirror microscope configurations.

Physician Interactions with Electronic Health Records in Primary Care

PubMed Central

Montague, Enid; Asan, Onur

2013-01-01

Objective It is essential to design technologies and systems that promote appropriate interactions between physicians and patients. This study explored how physicians interact with Electronic Health Records (EHRs) to understand the qualities of the interaction between the physician and the EHR that may contribute to positive physician-patient interactions. Study Design Video-taped observations of 100 medical consultations were used to evaluate interaction patterns between physicians and EHRs. Quantified observational methods were used to contribute to ecological validity. Methods Ten primary care physicians and 100 patients from five clinics participated in the study. Clinical encounters were recorded with video cameras and coded using a validated objective coding methodology in order to examine how physicians interact with electronic health records. Results Three distinct styles were identified that characterize physician interactions with the EHR: technology-centered, human-centered, and mixed. Physicians who used a technology-centered style spent more time typing and gazing at the computer during the visit. Physicians who used a mixed style shifted their attention and body language between their patients and the technology throughout the visit. Physicians who used the human-centered style spent the least amount of time typing and focused more on the patient. Conclusion A variety of EHR interaction styles may be effective in facilitating patient-centered care. However, potential drawbacks of each style exist and are discussed. Future research on this topic and design strategies for effective health information technology in primary care are also discussed. PMID:24009982

Expanding Children's Food Experiences: The Impact of a School-Based Kitchen Garden Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gibbs, Lisa; Staiger, Petra K.; Johnson, Britt; Block, Karen; Macfarlane, Susie; Gold, Lisa; Kulas, Jenny; Townsend, Mardie; Long, Caroline; Ukoumunne, Obioha

2013-01-01

Objective: Evaluate achievement of the "Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program" in increasing child appreciation of diverse, healthy foods. Design: Comparative 2-year study. Setting: Six program and 6 comparison primary schools in rural and metropolitan Victoria, Australia, matched for socioeconomic status and size. Participants: A…

Water jetting for the mitigation of defects in drilled shafts : a laboratory investigation of jetting effectiveness in different deleterious materials.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2012-09-01

Presented in this report are results of a laboratory investigation designed to examine the effectiveness of water : jetting as a means for mitigating defects in drilled shaft foundations. The primary objective of this research was : to establish an e...

A Flipped First-Year Digital Circuits Course for Engineering and Technology Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yelamarthi, Kumar; Drake, Eron

2015-01-01

This paper describes a flipped and improved first-year digital circuits (DC) course that incorporates several active learning strategies. With the primary objective of increasing student interest and learning, an integrated instructional design framework is proposed to provide first-year engineering and technology students with practical knowledge…

A Qualitative Assessment of Weight Control among Rural Kansas Women

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ely, Andrea C.; Befort, Christie; Banitt, Angela; Gibson, Cheryl; Sullivan, Debra

2009-01-01

Objective: To explore weight control beliefs, attitudes, knowledge, and practices among rural Kansas women, and to characterize the relationship of these women with their primary-care providers around weight control. Design: Qualitative research using focus groups. Setting: Three separate communities of rural Kansas. Participants: Six focus groups…

Primary Treatment and Sludge Digestion Workshop.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Toronto.

This manual was developed for use at workshops designed to upgrade the knowledge of experienced wastewater treatment plant operators. Each of the sixteen lessons has clearly stated behavioral objectives to tell the trainee what he should know or do after completing that topic. Areas covered in this manual include: sewage characteristics;…

SOFTWARE SYSTEM DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL MODELING: A MOU WORKING GROUP

EPA Science Inventory

A workgroup was formed in conjunction with a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) among six Federal Agencies to pursue collaborative research in technical areas related to environmental modeling. Among the primary objectives of the MOU are to 1) provide a mechanism for the c...

Farm-to-School Programs: Perspectives of School Food Service Professionals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Izumi, Betty T.; Alaimo, Katherine; Hamm, Michael W.

2010-01-01

Objective: This qualitative study used a case study approach to explore the potential of farm-to-school programs to simultaneously improve children's diets and provide farmers with viable market opportunities. Design: Semistructured interviews were the primary data collection strategy. Setting: Seven farm-to-school programs in the Upper Midwest…

Neighborhood Perceptions Affect Dietary Behaviors and Diet Quality

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Keita, Akilah Dulin; Casazza, Krista; Thomas, Olivia; Fernandez, Jose R.

2011-01-01

Objective: The primary purpose of this study was to determine if perceived neighborhood disorder affected dietary quality within a multiethnic sample of children. Design: Children were recruited through the use of fliers, wide-distribution mailers, parent magazines, and school presentations from June 2005 to December 2008. Setting:…

Cross-Cultural School-Based Encounters as Global Health Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bruselius-Jensen, Maria; Renwick, Kerry; Aagaard-Hansen, Jens

2017-01-01

Objective: Drawing on the concepts of the cosmopolitan person and democratic health education, this article explores the merits of primary school-based, cross-cultural dialogues for global health education. Design: A qualitative study of the learning outcomes of the Move/Eat/Learn (MEL) project. MEL facilitates cultural meetings, primarily…

Rite of Passage: A Visit to a University Library.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tabar, Margaret

2002-01-01

Describes a research project in the social studies curriculum at St. Paul Academy and Summit School (Minnesota) during which students visit a university library. Objectives for student research are: to select a topic, design a thesis statement, locate pertinent primary and secondary resources, and write a well-documented, analytical research…

13 CFR 124.402 - How does a Participant develop a business plan?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... Participant must develop a comprehensive business plan setting forth its business targets, objectives, and... future plans to enter into one or more new markets; (2) The applicant's designation of its primary industry classification, as defined in § 124.3; (3) An analysis of market potential, competitive...

A methodology for determining economic impacts of raised medians : data analysis on additional case studies

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-10-01

The objective of this four-year research effort is to develop and test a methodology to estimate the economic impacts of median design. This report summarizes the activities performed in the third year of this project. The primary task in the third y...

Basic Understanding of Earth Tunneling by Melting : Volume 2. Earth Structure and Design Solutions.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1974-07-01

A novel technique, which employs the melting of rocks and soils as a means of excavating or tunneling while simultaneously generating a glass tunnel lining and/or primary support, was studied. The object of the study was to produce a good basic under...

42 CFR Appendix C to Part 75 - Standards for Accreditation of Dental Radiography Training for Dental Assistants

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... curriculum in terms of program goals, instructional objectives, learning experiences designed to achieve... must be provided during a student's radiographic technique experience. Students must demonstrate... provide opportunity to make a variety of radiographs and radiographic surveys, including primary, mixed...

42 CFR Appendix C to Part 75 - Standards for Accreditation of Dental Radiography Training for Dental Assistants

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... curriculum in terms of program goals, instructional objectives, learning experiences designed to achieve... must be provided during a student's radiographic technique experience. Students must demonstrate... provide opportunity to make a variety of radiographs and radiographic surveys, including primary, mixed...

42 CFR Appendix C to Part 75 - Standards for Accreditation of Dental Radiography Training for Dental Assistants

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... curriculum in terms of program goals, instructional objectives, learning experiences designed to achieve... must be provided during a student's radiographic technique experience. Students must demonstrate... provide opportunity to make a variety of radiographs and radiographic surveys, including primary, mixed...

42 CFR Appendix C to Part 75 - Standards for Accreditation of Dental Radiography Training for Dental Assistants

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... curriculum in terms of program goals, instructional objectives, learning experiences designed to achieve... must be provided during a student's radiographic technique experience. Students must demonstrate... provide opportunity to make a variety of radiographs and radiographic surveys, including primary, mixed...

DESIGN OF A DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR SELECTION AND PLACEMENT OF BMPS IN URBAN WATERSHEDS

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has funded the development of a decision support system for selection and placement of best management practices (BMPs) at strategic locations in urban watersheds. The primary objective of the system is to provide stormwater manag...

Security of Personal Computer Systems: A Management Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Steinauer, Dennis D.

This report describes management and technical security considerations associated with the use of personal computer systems as well as other microprocessor-based systems designed for use in a general office environment. Its primary objective is to identify and discuss several areas of potential vulnerability and associated protective measures. The…

Physical Activity Based Professional Development for Teachers: The Importance of Whole School Involvement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Till, Jude; Ferkins, Lesley; Handcock, Phil

2011-01-01

Objective: This study sought to investigate teachers' perceptions of a physical activity-related professional development intervention. Design: Interview-based qualitative approach founded on the interpretive paradigm. Setting: Purposive selection of one high-rated independent, and one low-rated public primary school from Auckland, New Zealand.…

Design and development of FZU-32/B bomb fuze initiator. Final report 23 Jun 72--15 Nov 73

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

Miazza, J.

1974-05-01

The primary objective of this program was to develop a cost effective, production engineered FZU-24/B Bomb Fuze Initiator. The initiator is an electric generating device which, when installed in the fuze charging well of general purpose bombs, is capable of deriving energy from the airstream passing the bomb in free fall and converting the energy into electric energy suitable for powering a bomb fuze. The objective was to be accomplished by means of a production engineering effort carried through the evolution of design, fabrication, assembly, test, and evaluation. The baseline for the design was Harry Diamond Laboratories' Drawing No. 11716160.more » A quantity of 60 units was fabricated and tested, in accordance with the production engineered design. After some additional redesign to correct identified deficiencies, 220 units were fabricated. These units were subjected to environmental, wind tunnel, and flight testing and performance requirements were met. The final unit design was designated the FZU-32/B Bomb Fuze Initiator.« less

Life sciences payload definition and integration study, task C and D. Volume 1: Management summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

The findings of a study to define the required payloads for conducting life science experiments in space are presented. The primary objectives of the study are: (1) identify research functions to be performed aboard life sciences spacecraft laboratories and necessary equipment, (2) develop conceptual designs of potential payloads, (3) integrate selected laboratory designs with space shuttle configurations, and (4) establish cost analysis of preliminary program planning.

Opto-mechanical design and gravity-deformation analysis on optical telescope in laser communication system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Sen; Du, Jindan; Song, Yiwei; Gao, Tianyu; Zhang, Daqing; Wang, Yongzhi

2017-11-01

In space laser communication, optical antennas are one of the main components and the precision of optical antennas is very high. In this paper, it is based on the R-C telescope and it is carried out that the design and simulation of optical lens and supporting truss, according to the parameters of the systems. And a finite element method (FEM) was used to analyze the deformation of the optical lens. Finally, the Zernike polynomial was introduced to fit the primary mirror with a diameter of 250mm. The objective of this study is to determine whether the wave-front aberration of the primary mirror can meet the imaging quality. The results show that the deterioration of the imaging quality caused by the gravity deformation of primary and secondary mirrors. At the same time, the optical deviation of optical antenna increase with the diameter of the pupil.

The automated ground network system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Miles T.; Militch, Peter N.

1993-01-01

The primary goal of the Automated Ground Network System (AGNS) project is to reduce Ground Network (GN) station life-cycle costs. To accomplish this goal, the AGNS project will employ an object-oriented approach to develop a new infrastructure that will permit continuous application of new technologies and methodologies to the Ground Network's class of problems. The AGNS project is a Total Quality (TQ) project. Through use of an open collaborative development environment, developers and users will have equal input into the end-to-end design and development process. This will permit direct user input and feedback and will enable rapid prototyping for requirements clarification. This paper describes the AGNS objectives, operations concept, and proposed design.

A knowledge-based system design/information tool for aircraft flight control systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mackall, Dale A.; Allen, James G.

1991-01-01

Research aircraft have become increasingly dependent on advanced electronic control systems to accomplish program goals. These aircraft are integrating multiple disciplines to improve performance and satisfy research objective. This integration is being accomplished through electronic control systems. Systems design methods and information management have become essential to program success. The primary objective of the system design/information tool for aircraft flight control is to help transfer flight control system design knowledge to the flight test community. By providing all of the design information and covering multiple disciplines in a structured, graphical manner, flight control systems can more easily be understood by the test engineers. This will provide the engineers with the information needed to thoroughly ground test the system and thereby reduce the likelihood of serious design errors surfacing in flight. The secondary object is to apply structured design techniques to all of the design domains. By using the techniques in the top level system design down through the detailed hardware and software designs, it is hoped that fewer design anomalies will result. The flight test experiences are reviewed of three highly complex, integrated aircraft programs: the X-29 forward swept wing; the advanced fighter technology integration (AFTI) F-16; and the highly maneuverable aircraft technology (HiMAT) program. Significant operating technologies, and the design errors which cause them, is examined to help identify what functions a system design/informatin tool should provide to assist designers in avoiding errors.

Teaching students to read the primary literature using POGIL activities.

PubMed

Murray, Tracey Arnold

2014-01-01

The ability to read, interpret, and evaluate articles in the primary literature are important skills that science majors will use in graduate school and professional life. Because of this, it is important that students are not only exposed to the primary literature in undergraduate education, but also taught how to read and interpret these articles. To achieve this objective, POGIL activities were designed to use the primary literature in a majors biochemistry sequence. Data show that students were able to learn content from the literature without separate activities or lecture. Students also reported an increase in comfort and confidence in approaching the literature as a result of the activities. Copyright © 2013 The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

Structural design optimization with survivability dependent constraints application: Primary wing box of a multi-role fighter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dolvin, Douglas J.

1992-01-01

The superior survivability of a multirole fighter is dependent upon balanced integration of technologies for reduced vulnerability and susceptability. The objective is to develop a methodology for structural design optimization with survivability dependent constraints. The design criteria for optimization will be survivability in a tactical laser environment. The following analyses are studied to establish a dependent design relationship between structural weight and survivability: (1) develop a physically linked global design model of survivability variables; and (2) apply conventional constraints to quantify survivability dependent design. It was not possible to develop an exact approach which would include all aspects of survivability dependent design, therefore guidelines are offered for solving similar problems.

A Treatment Stage Specific Approach to Improving Quality of Life for Women with Ovarian Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-10-01

This study focuses on quality of life among women with ovarian cancer. The primary objective of the study is to identify the issues that are of...repeated measures design will be used to assess changes in problem areas and quality of life from diagnosis to recurrence among women newly diagnosed with...objectives are of the study are as follows: (1) to assess changes in quality of life (as quantified by the FACT-O questionnaire) across the different

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

Bacon, L. D.

Hybrid Band{trademark} (H-band) is a Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control (LMMFC) designation for a specific RF modulation that causes disruption of select electronic components and circuits. H-Band enables conventional high-power microwave (HPM) effects (with a center frequency of 1 to 2 GHz, for example) using a higher frequency carrier signal. The primary technical objective of this project was to understand the fundamental physics of Hybrid Band{trademark} Radio Frequency effects on electronic systems. The follow-on objective was to develop and validate a Hybrid Band{trademark} effects analysis process.

Mariner 9 mapping science sequence design.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldman, A. M., Jr.

1973-01-01

The primary mission of Mariner 9 was to map the Martian surface. This paper discusses in detail the design of the mapping science sequences which were executed by the spacecraft in sixty days and during which over eighty percent of the surface was photographed. The sequence design was influenced by many factors: experimenter scientific objectives, instrument capabilities, spacecraft capabilities, orbit characteristics, and data return rates, which are illustrated graphically. Typical orbits are depicted for each of the three different mapping phases lasting twenty days. Examples of typical orbital sequence plans prepared daily during mission operations are given.

Fetal omphalocele ratios predict outcomes in prenatally diagnosed omphalocele.

PubMed

Montero, Freddy J; Simpson, Lynn L; Brady, Paula C; Miller, Russell S

2011-09-01

The objective of the study was to evaluate whether ratios considering omphalocele diameter relative to fetal biometric measurements perform better than giant omphalocele designation at predicting inability to achieve neonatal primary surgical closure. Cases of fetal omphalocele that underwent evaluation between May 2003 and July 2010 were identified. Inclusion was restricted to live births with plan for postnatal repair. Omphalocele diameter upon antenatal ultrasound was compared with abdominal circumference, femur length, and head circumference, yielding the respective omphalocele (O)/abdominal circumference (AC), O/femur length (FL), and O/head circumference (HC) ratios. The absolute measurements were used to classify giant lesions. Omphalocele ratios and giant omphalocele designations were evaluated as predictors of inability to achieve primary repair. Among 25 included cases, staged or delayed closure occurred in 52%. With an optimal cutoff of 0.21 or greater, O/HC best predicted the primary outcome (sensitivity, 84.6%; specificity, 58.3%; odds ratio, 7.7). The O/HC of 0.21 or greater outperformed giant designations. The O/HC of 0.21 or greater best predicted staged or delayed omphalocele closure. Giant omphalocele designation, regardless of definition, poorly predicted outcome. Copyright © 2011 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Large Deployable Reflector (LDR) - Plans and progress

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Swanson, Paul N.

1987-01-01

The program history, scientific aims, design, and projected performance of the LDR, a 20-m-primary two-stage four-mirror orbiting sub-mm/FIR astronomical observatory under NASA development, are reviewed. It is shown that the LDR would provide capabilities complementary to those of IRAS, the Kuiper Airborne Observatory, the IRTF, the Hubble Space Telescope, and the planned Space IR Telescope Facility for observations of small-scale background anisotropies, high-redshift galaxies, and objects at temperatures of a few times 10 K or lower. The current design concept is illustrated with extensive drawings, diagrams, and tables of instrument parameters. Particular attention is given to the graphite-epoxy facing and Al-honeycomb core of the primary structure, the focal-plane instruments, and outstanding technological problems.

Space transfer vehicle concepts and requirements, volume 2, book 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1991-01-01

The objective of the systems engineering task was to develop and implement an approach that would generate the required study products as defined by program directives. This product list included a set of system and subsystem requirements, a complete set of optimized trade studies and analyses resulting in a recommended system configuration, and the definition of an integrated system/technology and advanced development growth path. A primary ingredient in the approach was the TQM philosophy stressing job quality from the inception. Included throughout the Systems Engineering, Programmatics, Concepts, Flight Design, and Technology sections are data supporting the original objectives as well as supplemental information resulting from program activities. The primary result of the analyses and studies was the recommendation of a single propulsion stage Lunar Transportation System (LTS) configuration that supports several different operations scenarios with minor element changes. This concept has the potential to support two additional scenarios with complex element changes. The space based LTS concept consists of three primary configurations--Piloted, Reusable Cargo, and Expendable Cargo.

Objects of temporary contraception: an exploratory study of women's perspectives in Karachi, Pakistan

PubMed Central

Marvi, Kamyla; Howard, Natasha

2013-01-01

Objectives To explore perspectives of three modern contraceptive objects, using an emic approach, among women in a low-income community in Karachi, Pakistan. Design A qualitative interview study design was employed, using qualitative content analysis with an inductive approach and manual thematic coding. Setting Shah Faisal Colony, Karachi. Participants 20 women, potential contraceptive users of reproductive age and living within a health centre catchment, were purposively selected to provide a similar number of non-users (n=5), contraceptive injection users (n=7), pill users (n=4), and intrauterine device users (n=4). One interview was excluded because it was not recorded. No other exclusion criteria were used. Primary and secondary outcome measures The primary outcome was interpretation of potency and effects of selected family planning objects. Secondary outcome measures were knowledge of family planning and description of therapeutic approaches used and preferred. Results Awareness of family planning was high. Women described different therapeutic approaches, stating they generally preferred modern medicine for contraception as it was fastest and most powerful. They reported that fear of some contraceptive objects, particularly injections and intrauterine contraceptive devices, influenced their choices. Women explained their perceptions of how the heating effects of contraceptives could cause unwanted side effects including menstrual irregularities, weight gain and weakness, leading to disease. Conclusions Most women wanted family planning, but remained dissatisfied with the available contraceptives and their effects. While women reported that they relied on modern medicine for contraception, their descriptions of how contraceptives affected their health relied on the hot–cold explanatory idiom of traditional medicine. PMID:23906959

Impact of sleep deprivation and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome on daytime vigilance and driving performance: a laboratory perspective.

PubMed

Pizza, F; Contardi, S; Mondini, S; Cirignotta, F

2012-01-01

To study the impact of sleepiness, a well-established cause of car accidents, on driving ability, we designed a 30-min monotonous simulated driving task. Our simulated driving task encompasses both primary vehicle control (standard deviation of lane position, crash occurrence) and secondary tasks (type and reaction times to divided attention tasks). Driving simulator data were correlated to subjective (state/trait) and objective (MSLT/MWT) sleepiness measures in healthy subjects undergoing sleep deprivation (SD) and in obstructive sleep apnea (OSAS) patients. SD induced severe sleepiness during nighttime, when state sleepiness increased while primary vehicle control ability worsened. After SD, driving ability decreased and was inversely correlated to subjective and objective sleepiness at MSLT. OSAS patients driving ability was well correlated to objective sleepiness, with inverse correlation to sleep propensity at the MSLT and even more strict relation with the ability to maintain wakefulness at the MWT. Sleepiness worsens driving ability in healthy subjects after SD and in OSAS patients. Driving ability correlates with subjective and objective sleepiness measures, in particular to the ability to maintain wakefulness.

Integrating mHealth Mobile Applications to Reduce High Risk Drinking among Underage Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kazemi, Donna M.; Cochran, Allyson R.; Kelly, John F.; Cornelius, Judith B.; Belk, Catherine

2014-01-01

Objective: College students embrace mobile cell phones (MCPs) as a primary communication and entertainment device. The aim of this study was to investigate college students' perceptions toward using mHealth technology to deliver interventions to prevent high-risk drinking and associated consequences. Design/setting: Four focus group interviews…

A supply chain approach to biochar systems [Chapter 2

Treesearch

Nathaniel M. Anderson; Richard D. Bergman; Deborah S. Page-Dumroese

2017-01-01

Biochar systems are designed to meet four related primary objectives: improve soils, manage waste, generate renewable energy, and mitigate climate change. Supply chain models provide a holistic framework for examining biochar systems with an emphasis on product life cycle and end use. Drawing on concepts in supply chain management and engineering, this chapter presents...

Celebrating the Constitution: An Instructional Unit for Elementary Grades.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McClain, Janet; And Others

Because attaining citizenship skills remains the principal goal of social studies, this unit was designed to highlight the founding of the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights in a manner appropriate to both primary and intermediate elementary children. Each lesson includes objectives, materials, and procedures, as well as supplementary…

Eco-Logic: Logic-Based Approaches to Ecological Modelling

Treesearch

Daniel L. Schmoldt

1991-01-01

This paper summarizes the simulation research carried out during 1984-1989 at the University of Edinburgh. Two primary objectives of their research are 1) to provide tools for manipulating simulation models (i.e., implementation tools) and 2) to provide advice on conceptualizing real-world phenomena into an idealized representation for simulation (i.e., model design...

Beliefs Regarding Classroom Management Style: Relationships to Particular Teacher Personality Characteristics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Nancy K.; And Others

This study was a continuation of an in-process research effort to further refine the Inventory of Classroom Management Styles (ICMS), an instrument designed to measure teachers' perceptions of their classroom management beliefs and practices. Using preliminary data analysis based on partial data collection, the primary objective of this study was…

Development of a Scale to Measure Lifelong Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kirby, John R.; Knapper, Christopher; Lamon, Patrick; Egnatoff, William J.

2010-01-01

Primary objective: to develop a scale to measure students' disposition to engage in lifelong learning. Research design, methods and procedures: using items that reflected the components of lifelong learning, we constructed a 14-item scale that was completed by 309 university and vocational college students, who also completed a measure of deep and…

Applied Mathematics, Tenth Grade. A Resource Manual.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baltimore County Public Schools, Towson, MD.

This resource manual is designed for use with tenth grade boys whose main interest lies in the shop and industrial arts areas. The course emphasizes mathematical problems inherent in various trades and industries. The primary objective is to motivate the student to apply, improve, and increase his computational skills. The manual is divided into…

A Comparative Study of Taoism and American Transcendentalism: A Humanities Teaching Unit.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Womack, Nancy

This teaching unit, designed for advanced high school students and average junior college students in a humanities oriented literature course, has one primary objective: to correlate similar thinking in two different time periods and locales. The philosophy of Taoism in ancient China and the philosophy of transcendentalism in nineteenth century…

Primary Treatment and Sludge Digestion Workshop. Second Edition (Revised).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Toronto.

This manual was developed for use at workshops designed to upgrade the knowledge of experienced wastewater treatment plant operators. Each of the sixteen lessons has clearly stated behavioral objectives to tell the trainee what he should know or do after completing that topic. The body of the text provides content information, procedure outlines,…

Signal Frequency Spectra with Audacity®

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gailey, Alycia

2015-01-01

The primary objective of the activity presented here is to allow students to explore the frequency components of various simple signals, with the ultimate goal of teaching them how to remove unwanted noise from a voice signal. Analysis of the frequency components of a signal allows students to design filters that remove unwanted components of a…

Effects of Earthworm (Eisenia fetida) and Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Straw Additions on Selected Properties of Petroleum-Contaminated Soils

Treesearch

Mac A. Callaham; Arthur J. Stewart; Clara Alarcon; Sara J. McMillen

2002-01-01

Current bioremediation techniques for petroleum-contaminated soils are designed to remove contaminants as quickly and efficiently as possible, but not necessarily with postremediation soil biological quality as a primary objective. To test a simple postbioremediation technique, we added earthworms (Eisenia fetida) or wheat (Triticum aestivum...

Examination of the Psychometric Properties of the Measurement Skills Assessment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vasilyeva, Marina; Ludlow, Larry H.; Casey, Beth M.; Onge, Caroline St.

2009-01-01

This article introduces the Measurement Skills Assessment (MeSA), which was designed to evaluate the mastery of measurement in elementary school students. The primary objectives for the MeSA include covering a broad range of measurement concepts, distinguishing between major subtypes of measurement, and constructing a continuum of items varying in…

An Integrated Design and Development System for Graphics Simulation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Richardson, J. Jeffrey

In the training of maintenance and operations technicians, three enhancements to a basic, straightforward, fixed-sequence simulation system can be useful. The primary advantage of the resultant system is that the principal object of simulation is the task to be performed, which includes both the planning knowledge and the equipment actions…

Associations between Beliefs about Medicines and Medicines Education: A Survey among Finnish Comprehensive School Teachers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Siitonen, Piia; Vainio, Kirsti; Keinonen, Tuula; Kiviniemi, Vesa; Hämeen-Anttila, Katri

2015-01-01

Objective: To describe the association between teachers' beliefs about medicines and teaching about illnesses and medicines-related topics by Finnish comprehensive school teachers. Design: A nationwide postal survey. Setting: Finnish primary and lower secondary school teachers. Method: Data were collected using a nationwide postal survey from a…

Reducing Situational Violence in Low-Income Couples by Fostering Healthy Relationships

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cleary Bradley, Renay P.; Gottman, John M.

2012-01-01

This work evaluated a psycho-educational intervention designed to reduce intimate partner violence (IPV) in low-income situationally violent couples. The primary objective was to evaluate the mechanism through which violence was reduced. It was hypothesized that IPV would be reduced via use of therapeutic skills taught during the intervention…

Children's After-School Physical Activity Participation in Hong Kong: Does Family Socioeconomic Status Matter?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cheung, Peggy PY

2017-01-01

Objective: This study aimed to examine the association between parental socioeconomic status (SES) and children's physical activity (PA) behaviour during after-school hours. Design: Cross-sectional study. Methods: Participants included 663 schoolchildren (aged between 10 and 13 years) and their parents from nine primary schools in Hong Kong.…

Immunising Children in Primary Care in the UK--What Are the Concerns of Principal Immunisers?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maconachie, Moira; Lewendon, Gill

2004-01-01

Objective: To determine the levels of concern about risks associated with childhood immunisations among principal immunisers in general practice. Design: Self-administered postal questionnaire survey. Setting: South & West Devon Health Authority. Participants: Eighty-eight/102 general practices: 78 practice nurses, 7 general practitioners, 3…

Ohio Social Studies Curriculum Guide: Washington Middle School. 1984-1989.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taylor, John P.

Designed for use in a one-semester seventh-grade Ohio social studies class, this curriculum guide is divided into teaching, testing, and activity units. The primary purposes of this guide are to teach participatory citizenship and to emphasize self-learning. Twelve broad instructional objectives include the ability to: (1) interpret Article I of…

Asynchronous CMC, Collaboration and the Development of Critical Thinking in a Graduate Seminar in Applied Linguistics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abrams, Zsuzsanna I.

2005-01-01

A primary objective of graduate education, and often promoted by peer collaboration tasks, is the development of critical thinking skills. The present study compares how graduate students enrolled in a qualitative research design course in applied linguistics utilized asynchronous computer-mediated communication (ACMC) and face-to-face…

Unified Database Development Program. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thomas, Everett L., Jr.; Deem, Robert N.

The objective of the unified database (UDB) program was to develop an automated information system that would be useful in the design, development, testing, and support of new Air Force aircraft weapon systems. Primary emphasis was on the development of: (1) a historical logistics data repository system to provide convenient and timely access to…

Identity and Philanthropy: Designing a Survey Instrument to Operationalize Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Alumni Giving

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garvey, Jason C.

2013-01-01

This study investigated philanthropic giving to higher education among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) alumni. The primary purpose was to create a multi-institutional survey instrument that operationalizes philanthropic involvement and motivation among LGBTQ alumni. Additional objectives included creating factors and items…

Excerpts: Proceedings of the FHWA/NCEER Workshop on the National Representation of Seismic Ground Motion for New and Existing Highway Facilities

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-09-22

The primary objective of the FHWA/NCEER Workshop was to recommend future directions for a national representation of the seismic ground shaking hazard for the design of new highway facilities and the evaluation and retrofit of existing highway facili...

Evaluation of a Web-Based Malaria Risk Reduction Game for Study Abroad Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hartjes, Laurie B.; Baumann, Linda C.

2012-01-01

Objective: Compare feedback strategies in 3 versions of an educational game. Participants: Study abroad students (N = 482) participated by playing the game and completing pregame/postgame surveys January-March 2010. Methods: This study employed an experimental design. Primary outcome measures were knowledge gain, player satisfaction, and risk…

Calcium montmorillonite clay for the reduction of aflatoxin residues in milk and dairy products

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

In this study, dairy cows were treated with calcium montmorillonite clay (NovaSil Plus (NSP); BASF Corp., Ludwigshaven, Germany) in a replicated 5x5 Latin square design. The primary objectives were to determine if milk composition was altered following ingestion of NSP, and to investigate the abili...

Generation 3 treatment technology for diluted swine wastewater using high-rate solid-liquid separation and nutrient removal processes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The primary objective for this project was to construct and evaluate a third generation, innovative swine manure treatment system. The system was designed to: separate solids and liquids with the aid of settling and polymer flocculants; biologically remove ammonia nitrogen with bacteria adapted to h...

An Evaluation Model for Competency Based Teacher Preparatory Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Denton, Jon J.

This discussion describes an evaluation model designed to complement a curriculum development project, the primary goal of which is to structure a performance based program for preservice teachers. Data collected from the implementation of this four-phase model can be used to make decisions for developing and changing performance objectives and…

DESIGN OF THE DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM FOR PLACEMENT AND SELECTION OF BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPS) FOR STORMWATER CONTROL IN URBAN WATERSHEDS

EPA Science Inventory

A decision support system for selection and placement of best management practices (BMPs) at strategic locations in urban watersheds is being developed. The primary objective of the system is to assist stormwater management practioners and decision makers in developing effective...

Slovenian: Non-Resident Language Refresher Course. 210 Hour Course, Volume VI.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Defense Language Inst., Washington, DC.

Volume 6 of this refresher course, designed for use by United States Armed Forces Intelligence Units, consists of 10 area-background, situation lessons. The primary objectives are to maintain and develop aural comprehension and oral fluency, reading ability, and writing ability in the Slovenian language. Materials presented in the course are…

Slovenian: Non-Resident Language Refresher Course. 210 Hour Course, Volume VII.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Defense Language Inst., Washington, DC.

Volume 7 of this refresher course, designed for use by United States Armed Forces Intelligence Units, consists of 10 area-background, situation lessons. The primary objectives are to maintain and develop aural comprehension and oral fluency, reading ability, and writing ability in the Slovenian language. Materials presented in the course are…

State Training & Employment Program. Program Review for FY99-FY01.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cordova, Lorraine

Alaska's State Training and Employment Program (STEP) was designed with the primary objective of reducing current and future claims against Unemployment Insurance (UI) benefits by providing training to those who are unemployed or facing unemployment. STEP is also charged with fostering growth of existing businesses and attracting new businesses to…

Complex Adaptive Systems of Systems (CASoS) engineering and foundations for global design.

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

Brodsky, Nancy S.; Finley, Patrick D.; Beyeler, Walter Eugene

2012-01-01

Complex Adaptive Systems of Systems, or CASoS, are vastly complex ecological, sociological, economic and/or technical systems which must be recognized and reckoned with to design a secure future for the nation and the world. Design within CASoS requires the fostering of a new discipline, CASoS Engineering, and the building of capability to support it. Towards this primary objective, we created the Phoenix Pilot as a crucible from which systemization of the new discipline could emerge. Using a wide range of applications, Phoenix has begun building both theoretical foundations and capability for: the integration of Applications to continuously build common understandingmore » and capability; a Framework for defining problems, designing and testing solutions, and actualizing these solutions within the CASoS of interest; and an engineering Environment required for 'the doing' of CASoS Engineering. In a secondary objective, we applied CASoS Engineering principles to begin to build a foundation for design in context of Global CASoS« less

Fluid Acquisition and Resupply Experiments on Space Shuttle Flights STS-53 and STS-57

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dominick, S. M.; Tegart, J. R.; Driscoll, S. L.; Sledd, J. D.; Hastings, L. J.

2011-01-01

The Fluid Acquisition and Resupply Experiment (FARE) program, managed by the Marshall Space Flight Center Space Propulsion Branch with Martin Marietta Civil Space and Communications as the contractor, consisted of two flights designated FARE I and FARE II. FARE I flew in December 1992 on STS-53 with a screen channel liquid acquisition device (LAD) and FARE II flew in June 1993 on STS-57 with a vane-type LAD. Thus, the FARE I and II flights represent the two basic LAD categories usually considered for in-space fluid management. Although both LAD types have been used extensively, the usefulness of the on-orbit data has been constrained by the lack of experimentation beyond predicted performance limits, including both propellant fill and expulsion. Therefore, the FARE tests were designed to obtain data that would satisfy two primary objectives: (1) Demonstrate the performance of the two types of LADs, screen channel and vane, and (2) support the anchoring of analytical models. Both flights were considered highly successful in meeting these two primary objectives.

Designing a mixed methods study in primary care.

PubMed

Creswell, John W; Fetters, Michael D; Ivankova, Nataliya V

2004-01-01

Mixed methods or multimethod research holds potential for rigorous, methodologically sound investigations in primary care. The objective of this study was to use criteria from the literature to evaluate 5 mixed methods studies in primary care and to advance 3 models useful for designing such investigations. We first identified criteria from the social and behavioral sciences to analyze mixed methods studies in primary care research. We then used the criteria to evaluate 5 mixed methods investigations published in primary care research journals. Of the 5 studies analyzed, 3 included a rationale for mixing based on the need to develop a quantitative instrument from qualitative data or to converge information to best understand the research topic. Quantitative data collection involved structured interviews, observational checklists, and chart audits that were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical procedures. Qualitative data consisted of semistructured interviews and field observations that were analyzed using coding to develop themes and categories. The studies showed diverse forms of priority: equal priority, qualitative priority, and quantitative priority. Data collection involved quantitative and qualitative data gathered both concurrently and sequentially. The integration of the quantitative and qualitative data in these studies occurred between data analysis from one phase and data collection from a subsequent phase, while analyzing the data, and when reporting the results. We recommend instrument-building, triangulation, and data transformation models for mixed methods designs as useful frameworks to add rigor to investigations in primary care. We also discuss the limitations of our study and the need for future research.

VizieR Online Data Catalog: Cataclysmic Binaries, LMXBs, and related objects (Ritter+, 2003)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ritter, H.; Kolb, U.

2003-08-01

Cataclysmic Binaries are semi-detached binaries consisting of a white dwarf or a white dwarf precursor primary and a low-mass secondary which is filling its critical Roche lobe. The secondary is not necessarily unevolved, it may even be a highly evolved star as for example in the case of the AM CVn-type stars. Low-Mass X-Ray Binaries are semi-detached binaries consisting of either a neutron star or a black hole primary, and a low-mass secondary which is filling its critical Roche lobe. Related Objects are detached binaries consisting of either a white dwarf or a white dwarf precursor primary and of a low-mass secondary. The secondary may also be a highly evolved star. The catalogue lists coordinates, apparent magnitudes, orbital parameters, stellar parameters of the components and other characteristic properties of 501 cataclysmic binaries, 74 low-mass X-ray binaries and 114 related objects with known or suspected orbital periods together with a comprehensive selection of the relevant recent literature. In addition the catalogue contains a list of references to published finding charts for 651 of the 689 objects. A cross-reference list of alias object designations concludes the catalogue. Literature published before 30 June 2003 has, as far as possible, been taken into account. This catalogue supersedes the 5th edition (catalogue ) and the updated lists by Ritter and Kolb (1995; catalogue ) (1998; catalogue ). (10 data files).

Distinct functional contributions of primary sensory and association areas to audiovisual integration in object categorization.

PubMed

Werner, Sebastian; Noppeney, Uta

2010-02-17

Multisensory interactions have been demonstrated in a distributed neural system encompassing primary sensory and higher-order association areas. However, their distinct functional roles in multisensory integration remain unclear. This functional magnetic resonance imaging study dissociated the functional contributions of three cortical levels to multisensory integration in object categorization. Subjects actively categorized or passively perceived noisy auditory and visual signals emanating from everyday actions with objects. The experiment included two 2 x 2 factorial designs that manipulated either (1) the presence/absence or (2) the informativeness of the sensory inputs. These experimental manipulations revealed three patterns of audiovisual interactions. (1) In primary auditory cortices (PACs), a concurrent visual input increased the stimulus salience by amplifying the auditory response regardless of task-context. Effective connectivity analyses demonstrated that this automatic response amplification is mediated via both direct and indirect [via superior temporal sulcus (STS)] connectivity to visual cortices. (2) In STS and intraparietal sulcus (IPS), audiovisual interactions sustained the integration of higher-order object features and predicted subjects' audiovisual benefits in object categorization. (3) In the left ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (vlPFC), explicit semantic categorization resulted in suppressive audiovisual interactions as an index for multisensory facilitation of semantic retrieval and response selection. In conclusion, multisensory integration emerges at multiple processing stages within the cortical hierarchy. The distinct profiles of audiovisual interactions dissociate audiovisual salience effects in PACs, formation of object representations in STS/IPS and audiovisual facilitation of semantic categorization in vlPFC. Furthermore, in STS/IPS, the profiles of audiovisual interactions were behaviorally relevant and predicted subjects' multisensory benefits in performance accuracy.

Automating a human factors evaluation of graphical user interfaces for NASA applications: An update on CHIMES

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jiang, Jian-Ping; Murphy, Elizabeth D.; Bailin, Sidney C.; Truszkowski, Walter F.

1993-01-01

Capturing human factors knowledge about the design of graphical user interfaces (GUI's) and applying this knowledge on-line are the primary objectives of the Computer-Human Interaction Models (CHIMES) project. The current CHIMES prototype is designed to check a GUI's compliance with industry-standard guidelines, general human factors guidelines, and human factors recommendations on color usage. Following the evaluation, CHIMES presents human factors feedback and advice to the GUI designer. The paper describes the approach to modeling human factors guidelines, the system architecture, a new method developed to convert quantitative RGB primaries into qualitative color representations, and the potential for integrating CHIMES with user interface management systems (UIMS). Both the conceptual approach and its implementation are discussed. This paper updates the presentation on CHIMES at the first International Symposium on Ground Data Systems for Spacecraft Control.

Textile technology development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shah, Bharat M.

1995-01-01

The objectives of this report were to evaluate and select resin systems for Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) and Powder Towpreg Material, to develop and evaluate advanced textile processes by comparing 2-D and 3-D braiding for fuselage frame applications and develop window belt and side panel structural design concepts, to evaluate textile material properties, and to develop low cost manufacturing and tooling processes for the automated manufacturing of fuselage primary structures. This research was in support of the NASA and Langley Research Center (LaRc) Advanced Composite Structural Concepts and Materials Technologies for Primary Aircraft Structures program.

Substitution of Hospital Care with Primary Care: Defining the Conditions of Primary Care Plus

PubMed Central

Kroese, Mariëlle Elisabeth Aafje Lydia; Spreeuwenberg, Marieke Dingena; Elissen, Arianne Mathilda Josephus; Meerlo, Ronald Johan; Hanraets, Monique Margaretha Henriëtte; Ruwaard, Dirk

2016-01-01

Objective: To analyse barriers and facilitators in substituting hospital care with primary care to define preconditions for successful implementation. Methods: A descriptive feasibility study was performed to collect information on the feasibility of substituting hospital care with primary care. General practitioners were able to refer patients, about whom they had doubts regarding diagnosis, treatment and/or the need to refer to hospital care, to medical specialists who performed low-complex consultations at general practitioner practices. Qualitative data were collected through interviews with general practitioners and medical specialists, focus groups and notes from meetings in the Netherlands between April 2013 and January 2014. Data were analysed using a conventional content analysis which resulted in categorised barriers, facilitators and policy adjustments, after which preconditions were formulated. Results: The most important preconditions were make arrangements on governmental level, arrange a collective integrated IT-system, determine the appropriate profile for medical specialists, design a referral protocol for eligible patients, arrange deliberation possibilities for general practitioners and medical specialists and formulate a diagnostic protocol. Conclusions: The barriers, facilitators and formulated preconditions provided relevant input to change the design of substituting hospital care with primary care. PMID:27616956

Using developmental research to design innovative knowledge translation technology for spinal cord injury in primary care: Actionable Nuggets™ on SkillScribe™

PubMed Central

Smith, Karen M.; Naumann, Danielle N.; McDiarmid Antony, Laura; McColl, Mary Ann; Aiken, Alice

2014-01-01

Context/Objective Actionable Nuggets™ for spinal cord injury (SCI) are a knowledge translation tool facilitating evidence-based primary care practice, originally developed in 2010 and refined in 2013. Evaluation results from these two phases of development have informed the design of SkillScribe™, an innovative electronic platform intended to offer reflective continuing medical education (CME) programming through mobile devices in order to support the key features of the Actionable Nuggets™ approach. This brief article describes the ongoing development of Actionable Nuggets™ for SCI on SkillScribe™ by: (1) summarizing the work to date on Actionable Nuggets™; (2) describing evaluation results of Actionable Nuggets™; (3) placing SkillScribe™ in the context of adult education. Design Developmental Research Design. Setting Canadian primary care. Participants Primary care physicians; specialist physicians. Interventions Twenty educational modules on SCI. Outcome measures Pre- and post-test knowledge survey, feedback and use statistics, impact assessment survey, qualitative analysis of evaluation data. Results In both hard copy and electronic form, physicians report that Actionable Nuggets™ are an acceptable and useful approach to providing CME for low-prevalence, high-impact conditions like SCI. The key elements of this tool are that they: offer evidence-based information in small, focused “nuggets”; position information where physicians most frequently seek it; offer information in a format that permits direct translation into action in primary care; allow time for reflection; attach practice tools; and offer CME credit. Conclusion Actionable Nuggets™ for SCI, delivered using a convenient and portable electronic medium, with time-released content and interactive testing has the potential to improve the primary care of patients with SCI. PMID:25229739

A magneto-sensitive skin for robots in space

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chauhan, D. S.; Dehoff, P. H.

1991-01-01

The development of a robot arm proximity sensing skin that can sense intruding objects is described. The purpose of the sensor would be to prevent the robot from colliding with objects in space including human beings. Eventually a tri-mode system in envisioned including proximity, tactile, and thermal. To date the primary emphasis was on the proximity sensor which evolved from one based on magneto-inductive principles to the current design which is based on a capacitive-reflector system. The capacitive sensing element, backed by a reflector driven at the same voltage and in phase with the sensor, is used to reflect field lines away from the grounded robot toward the intruding object. This results in an increased sensing range of up to 12 in. with the reflector on compared with only 1 in. with it off. It is believed that this design advances the state-of-the-art in capacitive sensor performance.

Using a data entry clerk to improve data quality in primary care electronic medical records: a pilot study.

PubMed

Greiver, Michelle; Barnsley, Jan; Aliarzadeh, Babak; Krueger, Paul; Moineddin, Rahim; Butt, Debra A; Dolabchian, Edita; Jaakkimainen, Liisa; Keshavjee, Karim; White, David; Kaplan, David

2011-01-01

The quality of electronic medical record (EMR) data is known to be problematic; research on improving these data is needed. The primary objective was to explore the impact of using a data entry clerk to improve data quality in primary care EMRs. The secondary objective was to evaluate the feasibility of implementing this intervention. We used a before and after design for this pilot study. The participants were 13 community based family physicians and four allied health professionals in Toronto, Canada. Using queries programmed by a data manager, a data clerk was tasked with re-entering EMR information as coded or structured data for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), smoking, specialist designations and interprofessional encounter headers. We measured data quality before and three to six months after the intervention. We evaluated feasibility by measuring acceptability to clinicians and workload for the clerk. After the intervention, coded COPD entries increased by 38% (P = 0.0001, 95% CI 23 to 51%); identifiable data on smoking categories increased by 27% (P = 0.0001, 95% CI 26 to 29%); referrals with specialist designations increased by 20% (P = 0.0001, 95% CI 16 to 22%); and identifiable interprofessional headers increased by 10% (P = 0.45, 95 CI -3 to 23%). Overall, the intervention was rated as being at least moderately useful and moderately usable. The data entry clerk spent 127 hours restructuring data for 11 729 patients. Utilising a data manager for queries and a data clerk to re-enter data led to improvements in EMR data quality. Clinicians found this approach to be acceptable.

Participation in the Cluster Magnetometer Consortium for the Cluster Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kivelson, Margaret

1997-01-01

Prof. M. G. Kivelson (UCLA) and Dr. R. C. Elphic (LANL) are Co-investigators on the Cluster Magnetometer Consortium (CMC) that provided the fluxgate magnetometers and associated mission support for the Cluster Mission. The CMC designated UCLA as the site with primary responsibility for the inter-calibration of data from the four spacecraft and the production of fully corrected data critical to achieving the mission objectives. UCLA was also charged with distributing magnetometer data to the U.S. Co-investigators. UCLA also supported the Technical Management Team, which was responsible for the detailed design of the instrument and its interface. In this final progress report we detail the progress made by the UCLA team in achieving the mission objectives.

Recovery Act: Pilot Integrated Cellulosic Biorefinery Operations to Fuel Ethanol

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

Javers, Jeremy

DOE EE002875 Technical Report Public Release. The objective was to leverage ICM’s pre-existing corn to ethanol pilot plant to build and to commission a fully functional pilot integrated cellulosic biorefinery. ICM’s Integrated Biorefinery (IBR) project was designed to achieve four major objectives. These primary goals were achieved during the performance period from December 2009 – August 2015. The design and construction phase took place from December 2009 until August 2011, with an increase in budget of nearly 4 million dollars. This increased cost was offset by operational changes, so the amount spent for the overall project increased by less thanmore » $500,000. There were three 1,000-hour performance test conducted, which produced cellulosic feedstock.« less

A knowledge-based system design/information tool for aircraft flight control systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mackall, Dale A.; Allen, James G.

1989-01-01

Research aircraft have become increasingly dependent on advanced control systems to accomplish program goals. These aircraft are integrating multiple disciplines to improve performance and satisfy research objectives. This integration is being accomplished through electronic control systems. Because of the number of systems involved and the variety of engineering disciplines, systems design methods and information management have become essential to program success. The primary objective of the system design/information tool for aircraft flight control system is to help transfer flight control system design knowledge to the flight test community. By providing all of the design information and covering multiple disciplines in a structured, graphical manner, flight control systems can more easily be understood by the test engineers. This will provide the engineers with the information needed to thoroughly ground test the system and thereby reduce the likelihood of serious design errors surfacing in flight. The secondary objective is to apply structured design techniques to all of the design domains. By using the techniques in the top level system design down through the detailed hardware and software designs, it is hoped that fewer design anomalies will result. The flight test experiences of three highly complex, integrated aircraft programs are reviewed: the X-29 forward-swept wing, the advanced fighter technology integration (AFTI) F-16, and the highly maneuverable aircraft technology (HiMAT) program. Significant operating anomalies and the design errors which cause them, are examined to help identify what functions a system design/information tool should provide to assist designers in avoiding errors.

Hanford spent nuclear fuel hot conditioning system test procedure

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

Cleveland, K.J.

1997-09-16

This document provides the test procedures for cold testing of the prototype Hot Conditioning System (HCS) at the 306E Facility. The primary objective of this testing is to confirm design choices and provide data for the detailed design package prior to procurement of the process equipment. The current scope of testing in this document includes a fabricability study of the HCS, equipment performance testing of the HCS components, heat-up and cool-down cycle simulation, and robotic arm testing.

Multi-kW solar arrays for Earth orbit applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1985-01-01

The multi-kW solar array program is concerned with developing the technology required to enable the design of solar arrays required to power the missions of the 1990's. The present effort required the design of a modular solar array panel consisting of superstrate modules interconnected to provide the structural support for the solar cells. The effort was divided into two tasks: (1) superstrate solar array panel design, and (2) superstrate solar array panel-to-panel design. The primary objective was to systematically investigate critical areas of the transparent superstrate solar array and evaluate the flight capabilities of this low cost approach.

Apixaban for reduction in stroke and other ThromboemboLic events in atrial fibrillation (ARISTOTLE) trial: design and rationale.

PubMed

Lopes, Renato D; Alexander, John H; Al-Khatib, Sana M; Ansell, Jack; Diaz, Raphael; Easton, J Donald; Gersh, Bernard J; Granger, Christopher B; Hanna, Michael; Horowitz, John; Hylek, Elaine M; McMurray, John J V; Verheugt, Freek W A; Wallentin, Lars

2010-03-01

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with increased risk of stroke that can be attenuated with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Vitamin K antagonist use is limited, in part, by the high incidence of complications when patients' international normalized ratios (INRs) deviate from the target range. The primary objective of ARISTOTLE is to determine if the factor Xa inhibitor, apixaban, is noninferior to warfarin at reducing the combined endpoint of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) and systemic embolism in patients with AF and at least 1 additional risk factor for stroke. We have randomized 18,206 patients from over 1,000 centers in 40 countries. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive apixaban or warfarin using a double-blind, double-dummy design. International normalized ratios are monitored and warfarin (or placebo) is adjusted aiming for a target INR range of 2 to 3 using a blinded, encrypted point-of-care device. Minimum treatment is 12 months, and maximum expected exposure is 4 years. Time to accrual of at least 448 primary efficacy events will determine treatment duration. The key secondary objectives are to determine if apixaban is superior to warfarin for the combined endpoint of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) and systemic embolism, and for all-cause death. These will be tested after the primary objective using a closed test procedure. The noninferiority boundary is 1.38; apixaban will be declared noninferior if the 95% CI excludes the possibility that the primary outcome rate with apixaban is >1.38 times higher than with warfarin. ARISTOTLE will determine whether apixaban is noninferior or superior to warfarin in preventing stroke and systemic embolism; whether apixaban has particular benefits in the warfarin-naïve population; whether it reduces the combined rate of stroke, systemic embolism, and death; and whether it impacts bleeding.

24 CFR 570.901 - Review for compliance with the primary and national objectives and other program requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... primary and national objectives and other program requirements. 570.901 Section 570.901 Housing and Urban... primary and national objectives and other program requirements. HUD will review each entitlement, Insular...)(3) that, consistent with the primary objective of the Act, not less than 70 percent of the aggregate...

On designing for quality

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vajingortin, L. D.; Roisman, W. P.

1991-01-01

The problem of ensuring the required quality of products and/or technological processes often becomes more difficult due to the fact that there is not general theory of determining the optimal sets of value of the primary factors, i.e., of the output parameters of the parts and units comprising an object and ensuring the correspondence of the object's parameters to the quality requirements. This is the main reason for the amount of time taken to finish complex vital article. To create this theory, one has to overcome a number of difficulties and to solve the following tasks: the creation of reliable and stable mathematical models showing the influence of the primary factors on the output parameters; finding a new technique of assigning tolerances for primary factors with regard to economical, technological, and other criteria, the technique being based on the solution of the main problem; well reasoned assignment of nominal values for primary factors which serve as the basis for creating tolerances. Each of the above listed tasks is of independent importance. An attempt is made to give solutions for this problem. The above problem dealing with quality ensuring an mathematically formalized aspect is called the multiple inverse problem.

A new design to evaluate erosion and sediment control

Treesearch

Johnny M. Grace

2006-01-01

Water quality issues surrounding sediment movement related to forest operations are a focus in forest management. The forest road system is a primary area of concern related to sediment movement because roads are a component of most forest operations. Controlling sediment movement is a common objective in most forestry best management practices (BMPs). However, there...

Development of bird population monitoring in New Zealand: Proceedings of a workshop

Treesearch

E.B. Spurr; C.J. Ralph

2006-01-01

A workshop on monitoring terrestrial (land) bird populations in New Zealand was held on 11 December 2005, following the Australasian Ornithological Conference, St Mary's Parish Centre, Blenheim, New Zealand. The primary objective of the workshop was to consider options for the design and implementation of a terrestrial breeding bird population survey for New...

Interaction of Students' Academic Background and Support Levels in a Resource-Based Learning Environment on Earth's Movement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

So, Wing Mui Winnie; Kong, Siu Cheung

2010-01-01

This research aims to study how a resource-based learning environment (RBLE) helps primary students develop better understanding of the Earth's movement. One objective of the study is to establish an RBLE by creating authentic contexts, selecting appropriate resources, designing relevant tools and adopting necessary scaffolds. The other objective…

Water in Fire Control--Basic Training Course.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Forest Service (USDA), Washington, DC.

Prepared by a team of fire control officers, the training guide is designed to help fire crewmen learn the fundamentals of water use. The entire package can be used for a complete course or individual lessons and can be adapted to specific training needs. Throughout the guide, emphasis is placed on one primary training objective, performance in…

Career Education Classroom Activities: North Dakota, K-12: Elementary (Second).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

North Dakota State Board for Vocational Education, Bismarck.

The career education activities in the guide are designed to be integrated with the school curriculum at the second grade level. They should be used selectively according to class needs and capabilities. A primary philosophy, how to use the guide, concepts to develop (K-6), and second grade objectives are outlined. Second grade career education…

Effectiveness of Early Entrepreneurship Education at the Primary School Level: Evidence from a Field Research in Morocco

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hassi, Abderrahman

2016-01-01

The present research is designed to identify the appropriate and relevant objectives that need to be pursued through entrepreneurial activities targeting elementary school children. It assesses the effectiveness of early entrepreneurship education. To do so, children aged 11 and 12 attended an entrepreneurial program and completed two versions of…

Planning for Life. A Compendium of Nationally Recognized Career Planning Programs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Consortium of State Career Guidance Supervisors, Columbus, OH.

This compendium, which is designed to provide readers with a variety of career planning (CP) program ideas, contains abstracts summarizing 10 elementary, middle, and high school CP programs identified as exemplary by a national review team. Explained in chapter 1 are the primary objectives of the Planning for Life program, which is jointly…

Shopping Behaviors of Low-income Families during a 1-Month Period of Time

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Darko, Janice; Eggett, Dennis L.; Richards, Rickelle

2013-01-01

Objective: To explore food shopping behaviors among low-income families over the course of the month. Design: Two researchers conducted 13 90-minute focus groups. Setting: Two community organizations serving low-income populations and a university campus. Participants: Low-income adults (n = 72) who were the primary household food shoppers and who…

Chapter 7. Additional studies using CFIRP treatments: Douglas-fir genetics and ambrosia beetle log colonization.

Treesearch

Chris C. Maguire; W. Thomas Adams; Rick G. Kelsey

2005-01-01

As highlighted in previous chapters, the primary biological objectives of CFIRP were to assess impacts of diverse silvicultural treatments on vegetation structure and growth and on the abundance and diversity of wildlife. Stand conditions resulting from implementation of the CFIRP research design, however, provided for the overlay of additional research projects that...

Lumber and Related Products; A Base Syllabus on Wood Technology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eastern Kentucky Univ., Richmond.

Prepared by participants in the 1968 National Defense Education Act Institute on Wood Technology, this syllabus is one of a series of basic outlines designed to aid college level industrial arts instructors in improving and broadening the scope and content of their programs. The primary objective of this course outline is to point out the…

A Randomized Controlled Trial of a School-Implemented School-Home Intervention for ADHD Symptoms and Impairment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pfiffner, L. J.; Rooney, M.; Haack, L.; Villodas, M.; Delucchi, K.; McBurnett, K.

2016-01-01

Objectives: This study evaluated the efficacy of a novel psychosocial intervention (Collaborative Life Skills, CLS) for primary-school students with ADHD symptoms. CLS is a 12-week program consisting of integrated school, parent, and student treatments delivered by school-based mental health providers. Using a cluster randomized design, CLS was…

Linking Project Evaluation and Goals-Based Teacher Evaluation: Evaluating the Accelerated Schools Project in South Carolina.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Finnan, Christine; Davis, Sara Calhoun

This paper describes efforts to design an evaluation system that has as its primary objective helping schools effect positive change through the Accelerated Schools Project. Three characteristics were deemed essential: (1) that the evaluation be useful and meaningful; (2) that it be sensitive to local conditions; and (3) that evaluations of…

The Special Education Core Curriculum Manual, Basic Level. Learning Skills, Oral Language, Reading, Mathematics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Margolis, Leonard

The manual is designed to serve as a guideline for teachers and child study teams who have the primary responsibility for the education of handicapped children in four areas--learning skills, oral language, reading, and mathematics. Sections for each of the above areas are subdivided into the following objectives and activities: gross motor…

Evaluation of Occupational Therapy Workshops to Prevent Work-Related Injuries or Illnesses among Vocational Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lecours, Alexandra; Therriault, Pierre-Yves

2018-01-01

The few studies aiming to evaluate prevention interventions provided by occupational therapists in health at work were conducted in work settings. However, to intervene in primary prevention, developing occupational therapy interventions with students learning a trade is relevant. The objective is to evaluate workshops designed and set up by…

Design and fabrication of a four-man capacity urine wick evaporator system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1979-01-01

The integrated system was tested to determine the performance characteristics and limitations of the dual catalyst concept. The primary objective of the dual catalyst concept is to remove ammonia and other noxious substances in the gas phase and thereby eliminate the need for and current practice of chemically or electrochemically pretreating urine prior to distillation.

In-Trail Procedure (ITP) Algorithm Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Munoz, Cesar A.; Siminiceanu, Radu I.

2007-01-01

The primary objective of this document is to provide a detailed description of the In-Trail Procedure (ITP) algorithm, which is part of the Airborne Traffic Situational Awareness In-Trail Procedure (ATSA-ITP) application. To this end, the document presents a high level description of the ITP Algorithm and a prototype implementation of this algorithm in the programming language C.

A Theoretical Model of Health Information Technology Usage Behaviour with Implications for Patient Safety

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holden, Richard J.; Karsh, Ben-Tzion

2009-01-01

Primary objective: much research and practice related to the design and implementation of information technology in health care has been atheoretical. It is argued that using extant theory to develop testable models of health information technology (HIT) benefits both research and practice. Methods and procedures: several theories of motivation,…

Lifelong Learning through SMEs: Exploring Workplace Learning in the UK

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ahlgren, Linda; Engel, Laura C.

2011-01-01

Purpose: The primary objective in this paper is to examine the role of small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in promoting and/or hindering educational opportunities to adult employees in the UK. Design/methodology/approach: The paper draws on 12 case studies of SMEs in England and Scotland, which form part of a larger European Sixth Framework…

A Physics Laboratory Course Designed Using Problem-Based Learning for Prospective Physics Teachers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ünal, Cezmi; Özdemir, Ömer Faruk

2013-01-01

In general, laboratories are exercises with a primary focus on the verification of established laws and principles, or on the discovery of objectively knowable facts. In laboratories, students gather data without comprehending the meaning of their actions. The cognitive demand of laboratory tasks is reduced to a minimal level. To prevent these…

Design of the primary pre-TRMM and TRMM ground truth site

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Garstang, Michael

1988-01-01

The primary objective of the Tropical Rain Measuring Mission (TRMM) were to: integrate the rain gage measurements with radar measurements of rainfall using the KSFC/Patrick digitized radar and associated rainfall network; delineate the major rain bearing systems over Florida using the Weather Service reported radar/rainfall distributions; combine the integrated measurements with the delineated rain bearing systems; use the results of the combined measurements and delineated rain bearing systems to represent patterns of rainfall which actually exist and contribute significantly to the rainfall to test sampling strategies and based on the results of these analyses decide upon the ground truth network; and complete the design begun in Phase 1 of a multi-scale (space and time) surface observing precipitation network centered upon KSFC. Work accomplished and in progress is discussed.

Structural synthesis: Precursor and catalyst

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Schmit, L. A.

1984-01-01

More than twenty five years have elapsed since it was recognized that a rather general class of structural design optimization tasks could be properly posed as an inequality constrained minimization problem. It is suggested that, independent of primary discipline area, it will be useful to think about: (1) posing design problems in terms of an objective function and inequality constraints; (2) generating design oriented approximate analysis methods (giving special attention to behavior sensitivity analysis); (3) distinguishing between decisions that lead to an analysis model and those that lead to a design model; (4) finding ways to generate a sequence of approximate design optimization problems that capture the essential characteristics of the primary problem, while still having an explicit algebraic form that is matched to one or more of the established optimization algorithms; (5) examining the potential of optimum design sensitivity analysis to facilitate quantitative trade-off studies as well as participation in multilevel design activities. It should be kept in mind that multilevel methods are inherently well suited to a parallel mode of operation in computer terms or to a division of labor between task groups in organizational terms. Based on structural experience with multilevel methods general guidelines are suggested.

Designing patient-centric applications for chronic disease management.

PubMed

Tsalatsanis, Athanasios; Gil-Herrera, Eleazar; Yalcin, Ali; Djulbegovic, Benjamin; Barnes, Laura

2011-01-01

Chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease are the leading causes of disability and death in the developed world. Technological interventions such as mobile applications have the ability to facilitate and motivate patients in chronic disease management, but these types of interventions present considerable design challenges. The primary objective of this paper is to present the challenges arising from the design and implementation of software applications aiming to assist patients in chronic disease management. We also outline preliminary results regarding a self-management application currently under development targeting young adults suffering from type 1 diabetes.

Mobile medical apps for patient education: a graded review of available dermatology apps.

PubMed

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.

Design of VA Cooperative Study #591: CERV-PTSD, comparative effectiveness research in veterans with PTSD.

PubMed

Schnurr, Paula P; Chard, Kathleen M; Ruzek, Josef I; Chow, Bruce K; Shih, Mei-Chiung; Resick, Patricia A; Foa, Edna B; Marx, Brian P; Huang, Grant D; Lu, Ying

2015-03-01

CERV-PTSD is a randomized controlled trial of two of the most effective treatments for PTSD, Prolonged Exposure (PE) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Despite solid evidence that both treatments are effective, there is limited evidence about their effectiveness relative to one another. The primary objective is to compare the effectiveness of PE and CPT for reducing PTSD symptom severity in a healthcare system that offers both treatments. The secondary objective is to compare the effectiveness of PE and CPT for reducing the severity of comorbid mental health problems and service utilization as well as improving functioning and quality of life. The tertiary objective is to examine whether discrepancy between patient preferences and treatment assignment reduces the effectiveness of each treatment. Exploratory analyses will examine whether demographic and clinical characteristics predict differential response to PE and CPT. The study is designed to randomize 900 male and female veterans with PTSD due to any traumatic military event to receive PE or CPT. The standard dose of treatment is 12 weekly sessions but veterans who improve more rapidly may finish in fewer sessions and veterans who improve more slowly may have additional sessions. The primary outcome is improvement in PTSD symptoms, measured during and after treatment and then 3 and 6 months later. As a large multi-site trial with men and women, CERV-PTSD is designed to advance the delivery of care for PTSD by providing conclusive information about whether one treatment is better than the other, overall, and for different types of patients. Published by Elsevier Inc.

The determination of operational and support requirements and costs during the conceptual design of space systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ebeling, Charles

1991-01-01

The primary objective is to develop a methodology for predicting operational and support parameters and costs of proposed space systems. The first phase consists of: (1) the identification of data sources; (2) the development of a methodology for determining system reliability and maintainability parameters; (3) the implementation of the methodology through the use of prototypes; and (4) support in the development of an integrated computer model. The phase 1 results are documented and a direction is identified to proceed to accomplish the overall objective.

HSTDEK: Developing a methodology for construction of large-scale, multi-use knowledge bases

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Freeman, Michael S.

1987-01-01

The primary research objectives of the Hubble Space Telescope Design/Engineering Knowledgebase (HSTDEK) are to develop a methodology for constructing and maintaining large scale knowledge bases which can be used to support multiple applications. To insure the validity of its results, this research is being persued in the context of a real world system, the Hubble Space Telescope. The HSTDEK objectives are described in detail. The history and motivation of the project are briefly described. The technical challenges faced by the project are outlined.

RBCC Mixing Studies: Ejector Ramjet Design Optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1999-01-01

The research project reported herein extended over a period from October 1997 through August 1999. The research resulted in three technical papers presented at the AIAA/SAE/ASME/ASEE 35th Joint Propulsion Conference in Los Angeles in July 1999. These three papers are attached to this Executive Summary to constitute the final report. Objective: The objective of this research was to determine the mixing characteristics between the primary rocket jets and the turbine exhaust stream in a simulated Rocket Based Combined Cycle propulsion concept operating in the air augmented rocket mode.

An innovative acupuncture treatment for primary dysmenorrhea: a randomized cross-over pilot study

PubMed Central

Wade, Christine M.; Abercrombie, Priscilla D.; Gomolak, Denise

2013-01-01

Background/Objective Dysmenorrhea is highly prevalent among adolescent women and a major cause of activity restriction. Standard pharmaceuticals used to treat dysmenorrhea are not effective for all women and have side effects that limit their use. Our study objective was to examine feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects of acupuncture point injection of vitamin K1 as an alternative treatment for primary dysmenorrhea among US women. Methods/Design We conducted a pilot study using a crossover trial design. Women with primary dysmenorrhea were randomized to receive vitamin K1 injection in the Spleen-6 acupuncture point at the start of menstruation followed by saline in a non-acupuncture point after two months, or the reverse order of treatments. Setting/Participants The study was conducted in the San Francisco Bay Area among women 18 and 25 years of age diagnosed with primary dysmenorrhea; fourteen women completed all study visits. Primary Outcome Measure Dysmenorrhea pain intensity was measured using a 0–10 numeric rating scale before and after injections. Results Women had an average 2.5 point decrease in pain after vitamin K1 injection in Spleen-6 (p < 0.001) compared with a 1.8 point decrease after saline (p < 0.001). Change scores of vitamin K1 compared with saline injection approached statistical significance (p < 0.10). Intensity and duration of menstrual symptoms measured by the Cox Retrospective Symptom Score also decreased following injections. After participating, 94% would still agree to go through with the injection therapy and 77% reported they would come every month were the treatment available. Conclusions Findings suggest high acceptability of acupuncture point injection of vitamin K1 as treatment for primary dysmenorrhea among young women in San Francisco. Pain decreased with both treatments, with a trend toward greater pain reduction for vitamin K1/Spleen-6 injection. This is consistent with outcomes from the Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital in Shanghai, China, where the protocol was developed. PMID:24445356

Main rotor six degree-of-freedom isolation system analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eastman, L. B.

1981-01-01

The design requirements of the system have been defined and an isolator concept satisfies these requirements identified. Primary design objectives for the isolation system are 90% attenuation of all NP main rotor shaft loads at a weight penalty less than or equal to 1% of design gross weight. The configuration is sized for a UH-60A BLACK HAWK helicopter and its performance, risk, and system integration were evaluated through a series of parametric studies. Preliminary design was carried forward to insure that the design is practical and that the details of the integration of the isolator into the helicopter system are considered. Alternate ground and flight test demonstration programs necessary to verify the proposed isolator design are defined.

The Novel Object and Unusual Name (NOUN) Database: A collection of novel images for use in experimental research.

PubMed

Horst, Jessica S; Hout, Michael C

2016-12-01

Many experimental research designs require images of novel objects. Here we introduce the Novel Object and Unusual Name (NOUN) Database. This database contains 64 primary novel object images and additional novel exemplars for ten basic- and nine global-level object categories. The objects' novelty was confirmed by both self-report and a lack of consensus on questions that required participants to name and identify the objects. We also found that object novelty correlated with qualifying naming responses pertaining to the objects' colors. The results from a similarity sorting task (and a subsequent multidimensional scaling analysis on the similarity ratings) demonstrated that the objects are complex and distinct entities that vary along several featural dimensions beyond simply shape and color. A final experiment confirmed that additional item exemplars comprised both sub- and superordinate categories. These images may be useful in a variety of settings, particularly for developmental psychology and other research in the language, categorization, perception, visual memory, and related domains.

Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) Flight System Design and Operations Overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shen, Yuhsyen; Shaffer, Scott J.; Jordan, Rolando L.

2000-01-01

This paper provides an overview of the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM), with emphasis on flight system implementation and mission operations from systems engineering perspective. Successfully flown in February, 2000, the SRTM's primary payload consists of several subsystems to form the first spaceborne dual-frequency (C-band and X-band) fixed baseline interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) system, with the mission objective to acquire data sets over 80% of Earth's landmass for height reconstruction. The paper provides system architecture, unique design features, engineering budgets, design verification, in-flight checkout and data acquisition of the SRTM payload, in particular for the C-band system. Mission operation and post-mission data processing activities are also presented. The complexity of the SRTM as a system, the ambitious mission objective, the demanding requirements and the high interdependency between multi-disciplined subsystems posed many challenges. The engineering experience and the insight thus gained have important implications for future spaceborne interferometric SAR mission design and implementation.

Designing A Mixed Methods Study In Primary Care

PubMed Central

Creswell, John W.; Fetters, Michael D.; Ivankova, Nataliya V.

2004-01-01

BACKGROUND Mixed methods or multimethod research holds potential for rigorous, methodologically sound investigations in primary care. The objective of this study was to use criteria from the literature to evaluate 5 mixed methods studies in primary care and to advance 3 models useful for designing such investigations. METHODS We first identified criteria from the social and behavioral sciences to analyze mixed methods studies in primary care research. We then used the criteria to evaluate 5 mixed methods investigations published in primary care research journals. RESULTS Of the 5 studies analyzed, 3 included a rationale for mixing based on the need to develop a quantitative instrument from qualitative data or to converge information to best understand the research topic. Quantitative data collection involved structured interviews, observational checklists, and chart audits that were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical procedures. Qualitative data consisted of semistructured interviews and field observations that were analyzed using coding to develop themes and categories. The studies showed diverse forms of priority: equal priority, qualitative priority, and quantitative priority. Data collection involved quantitative and qualitative data gathered both concurrently and sequentially. The integration of the quantitative and qualitative data in these studies occurred between data analysis from one phase and data collection from a subsequent phase, while analyzing the data, and when reporting the results. DISCUSSION We recommend instrument-building, triangulation, and data transformation models for mixed methods designs as useful frameworks to add rigor to investigations in primary care. We also discuss the limitations of our study and the need for future research. PMID:15053277

A safety incident reporting system for primary care. A systematic literature review and consensus procedure by the LINNEAUS collaboration on patient safety in primary care

PubMed Central

Klemp, Kerstin; Zwart, Dorien; Hansen, Jørgen; Hellebek, Torben; Luettel, Dagmar; Verstappen, Wim; Beyer, Martin; Gerlach, Ferdin M.; Hoffmann, Barbara; Esmail, Aneez

2015-01-01

Background: Incident reporting is widely used in both patient safety improvement programmes, and in research on patient safety. Objective: To identify the key requirements for incident reporting systems in primary care; to develop an Internet-based incident reporting and learning system for primary care. Methods: A literature review looking at the purpose, design and requirements of an incident reporting system (IRS) was used to update an existing incident reporting system, widely used in Germany. Then, an international expert panel with knowledge on IRS developed the criteria for the design of a new web-based incident reporting system for European primary care. A small demonstration project was used to create a web-based reporting system, to be made freely available for practitioners and researchers. The expert group compiled recommendations regarding the desirable features of an incident reporting system for European primary care. These features covered the purpose of reporting, who should be involved in reporting, the mode of reporting, design considerations, feedback mechanisms and preconditions necessary for the implementation of an IRS. Results: A freely available web-based reporting form was developed, based on these criteria. It can be modified for local contexts. Practitioners and researchers can use this system as a means of recording patient safety incidents in their locality and use it as a basis for learning from errors. Conclusion: The LINNEAUS collaboration has provided a freely available incident reporting system that can be modified for a local context and used throughout Europe. PMID:26339835

A primary-school-based study to reduce prevalence of childhood obesity in Catalunya (Spain)--EDAL-Educació en alimentació: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Giralt, Montse; Albaladejo, Rosa; Tarro, Lucia; Moriña, David; Arija, Victoria; Solà, Rosa

2011-02-27

The EdAL (Educació en Alimentació) study is a long-term, nutrition educational, primary-school-based program designed to prevent obesity by promoting a healthy lifestyle that includes dietary recommendations and physical activity.The aims are: 1) to evaluate the effects of a 3-year school-based life-style improvement program on the prevalence of obesity in an area of north-west Mediterranean 2) To design a health-promotion program to be implemented by health-promoter agents (university students) in primary schools. 1) The intervention study is a randomised, controlled, school-based program performed by university-student health-promoter agents. Initial pupil enrolment was in 2006 and continued for 3 years. We considered two clusters (designated as cluster A and cluster B) as the units for randomisation. The first cluster involved 24 schools from Reus and the second involved 14 schools from surrounding towns Cambrils, Salou and Vilaseca combined in order to obtain comparable groups. There are very good communications between schools in each town, and to avoid cross influence of the programs resulting from inter-school dialogue, the towns themselves were the unit for randomisation. Data collected included name, gender, date and place of birth at the start of the program and, subsequently, weight, height, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference every year for 3 years. Questionnaires on eating and physical activity habits are filled-in by the parents at the start and end of the study and, providing that informed consent is given, the data are analysed on the intention-to-treat basis.The interventions are based on 8 nutritional and physical activity objectives. They are implemented by university students as part of the university curriculum in training health-promoter agents. These 8 objectives are developed in 4 educational activities/year for 3 years (a total of 12 activities; 1 h/activity) performed by the health-promoter agents in primary schools. Control pupils follow their usual activities.2) Courses on education and promotion of health, within in the curriculum of medicine and health sciences for university students, are designed to train health-promoter agents to administer these activities in primary schools. This controlled school-based intervention will test the possibility of preventing childhood obesity. ISRCTN: ISRCTN29247645.

No physician gender difference in prescription of sick-leave certification: A retrospective study of the Skaraborg Primary Care Database

PubMed Central

Starzmann, Karin; Hjerpe, Per; Dalemo, Sofia; Björkelund, Cecilia; Boström, Kristina Bengtsson

2012-01-01

Objective The primary objective was to investigate how physicians’ gender and level of experience affects the rate and length of sick-leave certificate prescription. The secondary objective was to study the physicians’ gender and professional experience in relation to the diagnoses on the certificates. Design Retrospective, cross-sectional study of computerized medical records from 24 health care centres in 2005. Setting Primary care in Sweden. Subjects Primary care physicians (n = 589) and patients (n = 88 780) aged 18–64 years. Main outcome measures Rate and duration of sick leave certified by different categories of physicians and for different diagnoses and gender of patients. Results Sick leave was certified in 9.0% (musculoskeletal (3%) and psychiatric (2.3%) diagnoses were most common) of all contacts and the mean duration was 32.2 days. Overall there was no difference between male and female physicians in the sick-leave certification prescription rate (9.1% vs. 9.0%) or duration of sick leave (32.1 vs. 32.6 days). The duration of sick leave was associated with the physician's level of professional experience in general practice (GPs (Distriktläkare) 37, GP trainees (ST-läkare) 26, interns (AT-läkare) 20 and locum (vikarier) 19 days, p < 0.001). Conclusion Contrary to earlier studies we found no difference in sick-leave certification prescription rate and length between male and female physicians. PMID:22348513

Evaluation of total purchasing pilots in England and Scotland and implications for primary care groups in England: personal interviews and analysis of routine data

PubMed Central

Goodwin, Nicholas; Mays, Nicholas; McLeod, Hugh; Malbon, Gill; Raftery, James

1998-01-01

Objectives: To evaluate the reported achievements of the 52 first wave total purchasing pilot schemes in 1996-7 and the factors associated with these; and to consider the implications of these findings for the development of the proposed primary care groups. Design: Face to face interviews with lead general practitioners, project managers, and health authority representatives responsible for each pilot; and analysis of hospital episode statistics. Setting: England and Scotland for evaluation of pilots; England only for consideration of implications for primary care groups. Main outcome measures: The ability of total purchasers to achieve their own objectives and their ability specifically to achieve objectives in the service areas beyond fundholding included in total purchasing. Results: The level of achievement between pilots varied widely. Achievement was more likely to be reported in primary than in secondary care. Reported achievements in reducing length of stay and emergency admissions were corroborated by analysis of hospital episode statistics. Single practice and small multipractice pilots were more likely than large multipractice projects to report achieving their objectives. Achievements were also associated with higher direct management costs per head and the ability to undertake independent contracting. Large multipractice pilots required considerable organisational development before progress could be made. Conclusion: The ability to create effective commissioning organisations the size of the proposed primary care groups should not be underestimated. To be effective commissioners, these care groups will need to invest heavily in their organisational development and in the short term are likely to need an additional development budget rather than the reduction in spending on NHS management that is planned by the government. Key messages The level of reported achievement between the total purchasing pilots in 1996-7 varied widely; achievement was more likely to occur in primary than in secondary care Single practice and small multipractice pilots were more likely than large multipractice pilots to report achieving their objectives in 1996/97; achievements were also associated with higher direct management costs per head Large multipractice pilots needed more time for organisational development before progress could be made Difficulties in creating effective commissioning organisations the size of the proposed primary care groups should not be underestimated Primary care groups will need to invest heavily in organisational development and are likely to need an additional development budget in the short term PMID:9677217

The research questions and methodological adequacy of clinical studies of the voice and larynx published in Brazilian and international journals.

PubMed

Vieira, Vanessa Pedrosa; De Biase, Noemi; Peccin, Maria Stella; Atallah, Alvaro Nagib

2009-06-01

To evaluate the methodological adequacy of voice and laryngeal study designs published in speech-language pathology and otorhinolaryngology journals indexed for the ISI Web of Knowledge (ISI Web) and the MEDLINE database. A cross-sectional study conducted at the Universidade Federal de São Paulo (Federal University of São Paulo). Two Brazilian speech-language pathology and otorhinolaryngology journals (Pró-Fono and Revista Brasileira de Otorrinolaringologia) and two international speech-language pathology and otorhinolaryngology journals (Journal of Voice, Laryngoscope), all dated between 2000 and 2004, were hand-searched by specialists. Subsequently, voice and larynx publications were separated, and a speech-language pathologist and otorhinolaryngologist classified 374 articles from the four journals according to objective and study design. The predominant objective contained in the articles was that of primary diagnostic evaluation (27%), and the most frequent study design was case series (33.7%). A mere 7.8% of the studies were designed adequately with respect to the stated objectives. There was no statistical difference in the methodological quality of studies indexed for the ISI Web and the MEDLINE database. The studies published in both national journals, indexed for the MEDLINE database, and international journals, indexed for the ISI Web, demonstrate weak methodology, with research poorly designed to meet the proposed objectives. There is much scientific work to be done in order to decrease uncertainty in the field analysed.

Integration of the primary health care approach into a community nursing science curriculum.

PubMed

Vilakazi, S S; Chabeli, M M; Roos, S D

2000-12-01

The purpose of this article is to explore and describe guidelines for integration of the primary health care approach into a Community Nursing Science Curriculum in a Nursing College in Gauteng. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design was utilized. The focus group interviews were conducted with community nurses and nurse educators as respondents. Data were analysed by a qualitative descriptive method of analysis as described in Creswell (1994: 155). Respondents in both groups held similar perceptions regarding integration of primary health care approach into a Community Nursing Science Curriculum. Five categories, which are in line with the curriculum cycle, were identified as follows: situation analysis, selection and organisation of objectives/goals, content, teaching methods and evaluation. Guidelines and recommendations for the integration of the primary health care approach into a Community Nursing Science Curriculum were described.

A primary-school-based study to reduce prevalence of childhood obesity in Catalunya (Spain) - EDAL-Educació en alimentació: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background The EdAL (Educació en Alimentació) study is a long-term, nutrition educational, primary-school-based program designed to prevent obesity by promoting a healthy lifestyle that includes dietary recommendations and physical activity. The aims are: 1) to evaluate the effects of a 3-year school-based life-style improvement program on the prevalence of obesity in an area of north-west Mediterranean 2) To design a health-promotion program to be implemented by health-promoter agents (university students) in primary schools. Methods/Design 1) The intervention study is a randomised, controlled, school-based program performed by university-student health-promoter agents. Initial pupil enrolment was in 2006 and continued for 3 years. We considered two clusters (designated as cluster A and cluster B) as the units for randomisation. The first cluster involved 24 schools from Reus and the second involved 14 schools from surrounding towns Cambrils, Salou and Vilaseca combined in order to obtain comparable groups. There are very good communications between schools in each town, and to avoid cross influence of the programs resulting from inter-school dialogue, the towns themselves were the unit for randomisation. Data collected included name, gender, date and place of birth at the start of the program and, subsequently, weight, height, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference every year for 3 years. Questionnaires on eating and physical activity habits are filled-in by the parents at the start and end of the study and, providing that informed consent is given, the data are analysed on the intention-to-treat basis. The interventions are based on 8 nutritional and physical activity objectives. They are implemented by university students as part of the university curriculum in training health-promoter agents. These 8 objectives are developed in 4 educational activities/year for 3 years (a total of 12 activities; 1 h/activity) performed by the health-promoter agents in primary schools. Control pupils follow their usual activities. 2) Courses on education and promotion of health, within in the curriculum of medicine and health sciences for university students, are designed to train health-promoter agents to administer these activities in primary schools. Discussion This controlled school-based intervention will test the possibility of preventing childhood obesity. Trial registration number ISRCTN: ISRCTN29247645 PMID:21352597

Evaluating a Modular Decision Support Application for Colorectal Cancer Screening

PubMed Central

Diiulio, Julie B.; Borders, Morgan R.; Sushereba, Christen E.; Saleem, Jason J.; Haverkamp, Donald; Imperiale, Thomas F.

2017-01-01

Summary Background There is a need for health information technology evaluation that goes beyond randomized controlled trials to include consideration of usability, cognition, feedback from representative users, and impact on efficiency, data quality, and clinical workflow. This article presents an evaluation illustrating one approach to this need using the Decision-Centered Design framework. Objective To evaluate, through a Decision-Centered Design framework, the ability of the Screening and Surveillance App to support primary care clinicians in tracking and managing colorectal cancer testing. Methods We leveraged two evaluation formats, online and in-person, to obtain feedback from a range primary care clinicians and obtain comparative data. Both the online and in-person evaluations used mock patient data to simulate challenging patient scenarios. Primary care clinicians responded to a series of colorectal cancer-related questions about each patient and made recommendations for screening. We collected data on performance, perceived workload, and usability. Key elements of Decision-Centered Design include evaluation in the context of realistic, challenging scenarios and measures designed to explore impact on cognitive performance. Results Comparison of means revealed increases in accuracy, efficiency, and usability and decreases in perceived mental effort and workload when using the Screening and Surveillance App. Conclusion The results speak to the benefits of using the Decision-Centered Design approach in the analysis, design, and evaluation of Health Information Technology. Furthermore, the Screening and Surveillance App shows promise for filling decision support gaps in current electronic health records. PMID:28197619

Development, implementation, and evaluation of a multi-addiction prevention program for primary school students in Hong Kong: the B.E.S.T. Teen Program.

PubMed

Shek, Daniel T L; Yu, Lu; Leung, Hildie; Wu, Florence K Y; Law, Moon Y M

Based on the evaluation findings of the B.E.S.T. Teen Program which aimed at promoting behavioral, emotional, social, and thinking competencies in primary school students, it is argued in this paper that promotion of psychosocial competence to prevent addiction in primary school students is a promising strategy. A total of 382 Primary 5 (Grade 5) and 297 Primary 6 (Grade 6) students from five primary schools in Hong Kong participated in the program. Different evaluation strategies were adopted to evaluate the program. First, objective outcome evaluation adopting a non-equivalent group pretest-posttest experimental-control group design was conducted to examine change in the students. Second, to gauge students' perceptions of the program, subjective outcome evaluation was conducted. The evaluation findings basically converged to tentatively suggest that young adolescents benefited from participating in the program. Implications on the development, implementation, and evaluation of addiction prevention programs for teenagers are discussed.

STS-40 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1991-01-01

The STS-40 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the vehicle subsystem operations during the forty-first flight of the Space Shuttle and the eleventh flight of the Orbiter Vehicle Columbia (OV-102). In addition to the Columbia vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of an External Tank (ET) designated as ET-41 (LWT-34), three Space Shuttle main engines (SSME's) (serial numbers 2015, 2022, and 2027 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively), and two Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB's) designated as BI-044. The primary objective of the STS-40 flight was to successfully perform the planned operations of the Spacelab Life Sciences-1 (SLS-1) payload. The secondary objectives of this flight were to perform the operations required by the Getaway Special (GAS) payloads and the Middeck O-Gravity Dynamics Experiment (MODE) payload.

STS-40 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1991-07-01

The STS-40 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the vehicle subsystem operations during the forty-first flight of the Space Shuttle and the eleventh flight of the Orbiter Vehicle Columbia (OV-102). In addition to the Columbia vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of an External Tank (ET) designated as ET-41 (LWT-34), three Space Shuttle main engines (SSME's) (serial numbers 2015, 2022, and 2027 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively), and two Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB's) designated as BI-044. The primary objective of the STS-40 flight was to successfully perform the planned operations of the Spacelab Life Sciences-1 (SLS-1) payload. The secondary objectives of this flight were to perform the operations required by the Getaway Special (GAS) payloads and the Middeck O-Gravity Dynamics Experiment (MODE) payload.

Designing automation for human use: empirical studies and quantitative models.

PubMed

Parasuraman, R

2000-07-01

An emerging knowledge base of human performance research can provide guidelines for designing automation that can be used effectively by human operators of complex systems. Which functions should be automated and to what extent in a given system? A model for types and levels of automation that provides a framework and an objective basis for making such choices is described. The human performance consequences of particular types and levels of automation constitute primary evaluative criteria for automation design when using the model. Four human performance areas are considered--mental workload, situation awareness, complacency and skill degradation. Secondary evaluative criteria include such factors as automation reliability, the risks of decision/action consequences and the ease of systems integration. In addition to this qualitative approach, quantitative models can inform design. Several computational and formal models of human interaction with automation that have been proposed by various researchers are reviewed. An important future research need is the integration of qualitative and quantitative approaches. Application of these models provides an objective basis for designing automation for effective human use.

Medical Data Management in Time-Sharing: Findings of the DIRAC Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ludwig, Herbert; Vallee, Jacques

In terms of examples drawn from clinical and research data files, one of the objectives of this study is to illustrate several factors that have combined to delay the implementation of medical data bases. A primary factor has been inherent in the design of computer software. The languages currently on the market are procedural in nature: they…

Panoramic Stokes-polarimeter

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Syniavskyi, I. I.; Ivanov, Yu. S.; Vidmachenko, A. P.; Karpov, N. V.

2013-12-01

This article proposes optical layout of the imaging polarimeter based on the polarization films to measure the linear polarization of point and extended celestial objects. The spectral range of device is 420-850 nm, field of view 0.25°x0.25°. The device is designed to equip the telescope with a diameter of primary mirror about 400 mm and aperture f/12.

The Physically Active Lifestyle of Flemish Secondary School Teachers: A Mixed-Methods Approach towards Developing a Physical Activity Intervention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bogaert, Inge; De Martelaer, Kristine; Deforche, Benedicte; Clarys, Peter; Zinzen, Evert

2015-01-01

Objective: The primary aim of this study was to describe and analyse the physical activity and sedentary levels of secondary school teachers in Flanders. A secondary aim was to collect information regarding a possible worksite intervention of special relevance to secondary school teachers. Design: Mixed-methods quantitative and qualitative…

High-Performance Computing Act of 1990: Report of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation on S. 1067.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.

This committee report is intended to accompany S. 1067, a bill designed to provide for a coordinated federal research program in high-performance computing (HPC). The primary objective of the legislation is given as the acceleration of research, development, and application of the most advanced computing technology in research, education, and…

Air quality in California forests: current efforts to initiate biomonitoring with lichens.

Treesearch

Sarah Jovan

2002-01-01

The primary objective of the Forest Health Monitoring indicator project is to develop models that use the composition of epiphytic lichen communities to detect and monitor air quality in forests. The designs of existing air quality monitoring networks in California do not provide adequate representation of rural areas to assess impacts to forests. This article is...

Development of a new Lake-wide Multiple Gear Survey to Assess Status and Trends of the Lake Superior Fish Community and Lower Trophic Levels

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. Geological Survey Great Lakes Science Center has developed a plan to implement revision of its annual fish community survey of Lake Superior. The primary objective of the revision is improvement of the sampling design to be more representative of the Lake Superior fish c...

A Service Learning Structural Engineering Capstone Course and the Assessment of Technical and Non-Technical Objectives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dinehart, David W.; Gross, Shawn P.

2010-01-01

The primary role of a civil engineer is to serve the community; thus, it is essential that students understand the impact of engineering projects on, and the context of engineering projects within, society. One goal of an engineering capstone design course should be to mesh the technical knowledge of the discipline with an encompassing engineering…

Effect of Education Sessions of a Structured School Eye Screening Programme on Indian Schoolteachers' Knowledge and Responsibility for Children's Eye Health

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thummalapalli, Rohit; Williams, Jachin D.; Khoshnood, Kaveh; Salchow, Daniel J.; Forster, Susan H.

2013-01-01

Objective: To evaluate the effect of education sessions on Indian schoolteacher awareness of childhood eye health issues, responsibility for children's eye health, and successful participation in a teacher-led eye screening health intervention programme in primary schools aimed at addressing avoidable childhood blindness in India. Design:…

Designing and Constructing an Exemplar Zero Carbon Primary School in the City of Exeter, United Kingdom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tatchell, Arthur

2012-01-01

The United Kingdom's (UK) 2008 Budget announced the government's ambition that all new non-domestic buildings should be zero carbon from 2016. In order to take this goal forward, the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) established the Zero Carbon Task Force (ZCTF); its objective was to advise on how England can achieve this…

Teacher Experiences of Delivering an Obesity Prevention Programme (The WAVES Study Intervention) in a Primary School Setting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Griffin, Tania L; Clarke, Joanne L; Lancashire, Emma R; Pallan, Miranda J; Passmore, Sandra; Adab, Peymane

2015-01-01

Objective: There has been a wealth of childhood obesity prevention studies in school-based settings. However, few have investigated the experiences of school staff charged with delivery of such programmes. This study aimed to elicit teachers' experiences of delivering a childhood obesity prevention programme for children aged 6-7 years. Design:…

Applying Principles of Universal Design for Learning to Early Elementary Math Classes in Japan: A Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saito-Kitanosako, Yumiko

2012-01-01

Beginning in April 2007, the Japanese government implemented efforts to shift the focus of educational policy away from the notion of "Special Education" towards "Special Needs Education". The primary objective of this change in focus is to move towards a policy of ensuring that the educational needs of students with learning…

School-Based Health Education Programmes, Health-Learning Capacity and Child Oral Health--related Quality of Life

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Freeman, Ruth; Gibson, Barry; Humphris, Gerry; Leonard, Helen; Yuan, Siyang; Whelton, Helen

2016-01-01

Objective: To use a model of health learning to examine the role of health-learning capacity and the effect of a school-based oral health education intervention (Winning Smiles) on the health outcome, child oral health-related quality of life (COHRQoL). Setting: Primary schools, high social deprivation, Ireland/Northern Ireland. Design: Cluster…

Program Proposal: Certificates of Competence, Certificate of Achievement, Associate in Applied Science Degree in Sustainable Technology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pezzoli, Jean A.; Ainsworth, Don

This document proposes a program in sustainable technology at Maui Community College (Hawaii). This new career program would be designed to provide four Certificates of Competence, a Certificate of Achievement, and an Associate in Applied Science degree. The primary objectives of the program are to meet student, county, and state needs for…

Health Disparities Grants Funded by National Institute on Aging: Trends between 2000 and 2010

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Giyeon; DeCoster, Jamie; Huang, Chao-Hui; Parmelee, Patricia

2012-01-01

Purpose of the Study: The present study examined the characteristics of health disparities grants funded by National Institute on Aging (NIA) from 2000 to 2010. Objectives were (a) to examine longitudinal trends in health disparities-related grants funded by NIA and (b) to identify moderators of these trends. Design and Methods: Our primary data…

Everything You've Always Wanted to Know About Weather But Were Afraid to Ask.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abbott, Verlin M.

This unit, designed for primary grades of the elementary schools, focuses on weather and is divided into the following five major parts: Weather Affects Man and His Environment; Air, Wind, and Weather; Clouds and Humidity; Precipitation; and Micro-Environments. Each part includes a list of the concepts to be taught, the behavioral objectives and…

Improving the fatigue resistance of adhesive joints in laminated wood structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Laufenberg, Theodore L.; River, Bryan H.; Murmanis, Lidija L.; Christiansen, Alfred W.

1988-01-01

The premature fatigue failure of a laminated wood/epoxy test beam containing a cross section finger joint was the subject of a multi-disciplinary investigation. The primary objectives were to identify the failure mechanisms which occurred during the finger joint test and to provide avenues for general improvements in the design and fabrication of adhesive joints in laminated wood structures.

A Descriptive Study on the Barriers and Facilitators to Implementation of the NSW (Australia) Healthy School Canteen Strategy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ardzejewska, K.; Tadros, R.; Baxter, D.

2013-01-01

Objective: The study investigated the barriers and facilitators to, and the extent of the implementation of, the New South Wales (Australia) "Healthy School Canteen Strategy". Design: A purposeful sample was used and data were collected using a mixed method approach. Setting: Two primary and two secondary government schools from a low…

Estimating the Impact of a College or University on the Local Economy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Caffrey, John; Isaacs, Herbert H.

Models to assess the impact of a college on the local economy are examined. A primary objective was to derive equations for which data could be obtained from normal records kept by colleges, local governments, and businesses. The models, which are designed to be used by college presidents and their staffs, are linear cash-flow formulas, including…

Comparing Homeless Persons’ Care Experiences in Tailored Versus Nontailored Primary Care Programs

PubMed Central

Holt, Cheryl L.; Steward, Jocelyn L.; Jones, Richard N.; Roth, David L.; Stringfellow, Erin; Gordon, Adam J.; Kim, Theresa W.; Austin, Erika L.; Henry, Stephen Randal; Kay Johnson, N.; Shanette Granstaff, U.; O’Connell, James J.; Golden, Joya F.; Young, Alexander S.; Davis, Lori L.; Pollio, David E.

2013-01-01

Objectives. We compared homeless patients’ experiences of care in health care organizations that differed in their degree of primary care design service tailoring. Methods. We surveyed homeless-experienced patients (either recently or currently homeless) at 3 Veterans Affairs (VA) mainstream primary care settings in Pennsylvania and Alabama, a homeless-tailored VA clinic in California, and a highly tailored non-VA Health Care for the Homeless Program in Massachusetts (January 2011-March 2012). We developed a survey, the “Primary Care Quality-Homeless Survey," to reflect the concerns and aspirations of homeless patients. Results. Mean scores at the tailored non-VA site were superior to those from the 3 mainstream VA sites (P < .001). Adjusting for patient characteristics, these differences remained significant for subscales assessing the patient–clinician relationship (P < .001) and perceptions of cooperation among providers (P = .004). There were 1.5- to 3-fold increased odds of an unfavorable experience in the domains of the patient–clinician relationship, cooperation, and access or coordination for the mainstream VA sites compared with the tailored non-VA site; the tailored VA site attained intermediate results. Conclusions. Tailored primary care service design was associated with a superior service experience for patients who experienced homelessness. PMID:24148052

NASA-UVa Light Aerospace Alloy and Structures Technology Program: Aluminum-Based Materials for High Speed Aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Starke, E. A., Jr. (Editor)

1996-01-01

This report is concerned with 'Aluminum-Based Materials for High Speed Aircraft' which was initiated to identify the technology needs associated with advanced, low-cost aluminum base materials for use as primary structural materials. Using a reference baseline aircraft, these materials concept will be further developed and evaluated both technically and economically to determine the most attractive combinations of designs, materials, and manufacturing techniques for major structural sections of an HSCT. Once this has been accomplished, the baseline aircraft will be resized, if applicable, and performance objectives and economic evaluations made to determine aircraft operating costs. The two primary objectives of this study are: (1) to identify the most promising aluminum-based materials with respect to major structural use on the HSCT and to further develop those materials, and (2) to assess these materials through detailed trade and evaluation studies with respect to their structural efficiency on the HSCT.

The lost history of American veterinary medicine: the need for preservation*†

PubMed Central

Boyd, C. Trenton

2011-01-01

Objective: The objective of this study was to survey holdings of ephemeral veterinary literature. Methods: WorldCat OCLC catalog, the Library of Congress online catalog, the US National Agricultural Library online catalog, and the Dictionary Catalog of the National Agricultural Library, 1862–1965, were used to determine current library holdings of materials published by veterinary schools that are no longer in existence and veterinary associations that are defunct, veterinary supply catalogs, veterinary house organs, patent medicine publications, and veterinary advertisements. Individual library catalogs were also consulted. In addition, the practice of removing advertisements from bound volumes was examined. Results: There are many gaps in the cataloged library holdings of primary source materials relating to the history of the education of veterinarians in the United States. Conclusions: A proactive action plan needs to be designed and activated to locate, catalog, and preserve this primary source material of veterinary medicine for posterity. PMID:21243050

Application of a multipurpose unequal probability stream survey in the Mid-Atlantic Coastal Plain

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ator, S.W.; Olsen, A.R.; Pitchford, A.M.; Denver, J.M.

2003-01-01

A stratified, spatially balanced sample with unequal probability selection was used to design a multipurpose survey of headwater streams in the Mid-Atlantic Coastal Plain. Objectives for the survey include unbiased estimates of regional stream conditions, and adequate coverage of unusual but significant environmental settings to support empirical modeling of the factors affecting those conditions. The design and field application of the survey are discussed in light of these multiple objectives. A probability (random) sample of 175 first-order nontidal streams was selected for synoptic sampling of water chemistry and benthic and riparian ecology during late winter and spring 2000. Twenty-five streams were selected within each of seven hydrogeologic subregions (strata) that were delineated on the basis of physiography and surficial geology. In each subregion, unequal inclusion probabilities were used to provide an approximately even distribution of streams along a gradient of forested to developed (agricultural or urban) land in the contributing watershed. Alternate streams were also selected. Alternates were included in groups of five in each subregion when field reconnaissance demonstrated that primary streams were inaccessible or otherwise unusable. Despite the rejection and replacement of a considerable number of primary streams during reconnaissance (up to 40 percent in one subregion), the desired land use distribution was maintained within each hydrogeologic subregion without sacrificing the probabilistic design.

The Medical and Endovascular Treatment of Atherosclerotic Renal Artery Stenosis (METRAS) study: rationale and study design.

PubMed

Rossi, G P; Seccia, T M; Miotto, D; Zucchetta, P; Cecchin, D; Calò, L; Puato, M; Motta, R; Caielli, P; Vincenzi, M; Ramondo, G; Taddei, S; Ferri, C; Letizia, C; Borghi, C; Morganti, A; Pessina, A C

2012-08-01

It is unclear whether revascularization of renal artery stenosis (RAS) by means of percutaneous renal angioplasty and stenting (PTRAS) is advantageous over optimal medical therapy. Hence, we designed a randomized clinical trial based on an optimized patient selection strategy and hard experimental endpoints. Primary objective of this study is to determine whether PTRAS is superior or equivalent to optimal medical treatment for preserving glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in the ischemic kidney as assessed by 99mTcDTPA sequential renal scintiscan. Secondary objectives of this study are to establish whether the two treatments are equivalent in lowering blood pressure, preserving overall renal function and regressing target organ damage, preventing cardiovascular events and improving quality of life. The study is designed as a prospective multicentre randomized, un-blinded two-arm study. Eligible patients will have clinical and angio-CT evidence of RAS. Inclusion criteria is RAS affecting the main renal artery or its major branches either >70% or, if <70, with post-stenotic dilatation. Renal function will be assessed with 99mTc-DTPA renal scintigraphy. Patients will be randomized to either arms considering both resistance index value in the ischemic kidney and the presence of unilateral/bilateral stenosis. Primary experimental endpoint will be the GFR of the ischemic kidney, assessed as quantitative variable by 99TcDTPA, and the loss of ischemic kidney defined as a categorical variable.

Healthy eating and active living for diabetes in primary care networks (HEALD-PCN): rationale, design, and evaluation of a pragmatic controlled trial for adults with type 2 diabetes

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background While strong and consistent evidence supports the role of lifestyle modification in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes (T2DM), the best strategies for program implementation to support lifestyle modification within primary care remain to be determined. The objective of the study is to evaluate the implementation of an evidence-based self- management program for patients with T2DM within a newly established primary care network (PCN) environment. Method Using a non-randomized design, participants (total N = 110 per group) will be consecutively allocated in bi-monthly blocks to either a 6-month self-management program lead by an Exercise Specialist or to usual care. Our primary outcome is self-reported physical activity and pedometer steps. Discussion The present study will assess whether a diabetes self-management program lead by an Exercise Specialist provided within a newly emerging model of primary care and linked to available community-based resources, can lead to positive changes in self-management behaviours for adults with T2DM. Ultimately, our work will serve as a platform upon which an emerging model of primary care can incorporate effective and efficient chronic disease management practices that are sustainable through partnerships with local community partners. Clinical Trials Registration ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00991380 PMID:22712881

Improving Science Process Skills for Primary School Students Through 5E Instructional Model-Based Learning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choirunnisa, N. L.; Prabowo, P.; Suryanti, S.

2018-01-01

The main objective of this study is to describe the effectiveness of 5E instructional model-based learning to improve primary school students’ science process skills. The science process skills is important for students as it is the foundation for enhancing the mastery of concepts and thinking skills needed in the 21st century. The design of this study was experimental involving one group pre-test and post-test design. The result of this study shows that (1) the implementation of learning in both of classes, IVA and IVB, show that the percentage of learning implementation increased which indicates a better quality of learning and (2) the percentage of students’ science process skills test results on the aspects of observing, formulating hypotheses, determining variable, interpreting data and communicating increased as well.

Atomization and Mixing Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ferrenberg, A.; Hunt, K.; Duesberg, J.

1985-01-01

The primary objective was the obtainment of atomization and mixing performance data for a variety of typical liquid oxygen/hydrocarbon injector element designs. Such data are required to establish injector design criteria and to provide critical inputs to liquid rocket engine combustor performance and stability analysis, and computational codes and methods. Deficiencies and problems with the atomization test equipment were identified, and action initiated to resolve them. Test results of the gas/liquid mixing tests indicated that an assessment of test methods was required. A series of 71 liquid/liquid tests were performed.

Auricular Acupressure Combined with an Internet-Based Intervention or Alone for Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Control Study

PubMed Central

Yeh, Mei-Ling; Hung, Yu-Ling; Lin, Jaung-Geng

2013-01-01

Background. Primary dysmenorrhea is prevalent in adolescents and young women. Menstrual pain and distress causes poor school performance and physiological damage. Auricular acupressure can be used to treat these symptoms, and Internet-based systems are a flexible way of communicating and delivering the relevant information. Objective. This study investigates the effects of auricular acupressure (AA) alone and combined with an interactive Internet-based (II) intervention for the management of menstrual pain and self-care of adolescents with primary dysmenorrhea. Design. This study adopts a pretest/posttest control research design with a convenience sample of 107 participants. Results. The outcomes were measured using the short-form McGill pain questionnaire (SF-MPQ), visual analogue scale (VAS), menstrual distress questionnaire (MDQ), and adolescent dysmenorrheic self-care scale (ADSCS). Significant differences were found in ADSCS scores between the groups, and in SF-MPQ, VAS, MDQ, and ADSCS scores for each group. Conclusion. Auricular acupressure alone and a combination of auricular acupressure and interactive Internet both reduced menstrual pain and distress for primary dysmenorrhea. Auricular acupressure combined with interactive Internet instruction is better than auricular acupuncture alone in improving self-care behaviors. PMID:23653661

Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Mission: Systems Engineering Challenges on the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Havens, Glen G.

2007-01-01

MRO project is a system of systems requiring system engineering team to architect, design, integrate, test, and operate these systems at each level of the project. The challenge of system engineering mission objectives into a single mission architecture that can be integrated tested, launched, and operated. Systems engineering must translate high-level requirements into integrated mission design. Systems engineering challenges were overcome utilizing a combination by creative designs built into MRO's flight and ground systems: a) Design of sophisticated spacecraft targeting and data management capabilities b) Establishment of a strong operations team organization; c) Implementation of robust operational processes; and d) Development of strategic ground tools. The MRO system has met the challenge of its driving requirements: a) MRO began its two-year primary science phase on November 7, 2006, and by July 2007, met it minimum requirement to collect 15 Tbits of data after only eight months of operations. Currently we have collected 22 Tbits. b) Based on current performance, mission data return could return 70 Tbits of data by the end of the primary science phase in 2008.

Composite propulsion feedlines for cryogenic space vehicles, volume 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, C. A.; Laintz, D. J.; Phillips, J. M.

1973-01-01

Thin metallic liners that provide leak-free service in cryogenic propulsion systems are overwrapped with a glass-fiber composite that provides strength and protection from handling damage. The resultant tube is lightweight, strong and has a very low thermal flux. Several styles of tubing ranging from 5 to 38 cm in diameter and up to 305 cm long were fabricated and tested at operating temperatures from 294 to 21 K and operating pressures up to 259 N/sq cm. The primary objective for the smaller sizes was thermal performance optimization of the propulsion system while the primary objective of the larger sizes was weight optimization and to prove fabricability. All major program objectives were met resulting in a design concept that is adaptable to a wide range of aerospace vehicle requirements. Major items of development included: bonding large diameter aluminum end fittings to the thin Inconel liner; fabrication of a 38 cm diameter tube from 0.008 cm thick Inconel; and evaluation of tubing which provides essentially zero quality propellant in a very short period of time resulting in a lower mass of propellant expended in chilldown.

The Discovery Channel Telescope: Construction and Design Progress, January 2007

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bida, Thomas A.; Millis, R. L.; Smith, B. W.; Dunham, E. W.; Marshall, H.

2006-12-01

The Discovery Channel Telescope (DCT) is a 4.2m telescope under construction in northern Arizona. The DCT is located at a new site near Happy Jack at 2361m elevation, which was selected following a lengthy site testing campaign that demonstrated DIMM-characterized median ground-level seeing of 0.84-arcsec FWHM. The DCT science mission includes targeted studies of astrophysical and solar system objects utilizing RC and Nasmyth-mounted imaging and spectroscopic instrumentation, and wide-field surveys of KBO’s, NEA’s, and astrophysical objects with a 2-degree FOV prime focus camera. The DCT facility enclosure and control buildings will be completed soon, including the telescope mount and dome supports, major machinery infrastructure, the instrument laboratory, control and computer rooms, and the auxiliary building for the mirror coating plant. Meanwhile, the effort for final figuring and polishing of the 4.3m ULE meniscus primary mirror blank began in August 2006 at the University of Arizona College of Optical Sciences. The primary mirror and its design support, and the integrated telescope mount model, were finite-element analyzed to optimize the design of the mirror and top-end support configurations. The primary mirror axial and tangential actuators will be fabricated in early 2007 and utilized in the final figure and polish cycle. The prime focus camera design has been refined to achieve atmospheric dispersion-compensated 0.25-arcsec images at 1-degree field radius, from B to I-band, at reduced cost through simplification of glasses to standard types and utilization of spheres on all but two lens surfaces. The Discovery Channel Telescope is a project of the Lowell Observatory with major financial support from Discovery Communications, Inc. (DCI). DCI plans ongoing television programming featuring the construction of the telescope and the research ultimately conducted with the DCT. Lowell Observatory and Discovery Communications are actively seeking additional partners in the project; interested parties should contact R. L. Millis, Director.

A rotor technology assessment of the advancing blade concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pleasants, W. A.

1983-01-01

A rotor technology assessment of the Advancing Blade Concept (ABC) was conducted in support of a preliminary design study. The analytical methodology modifications and inputs, the correlation, and the results of the assessment are documented. The primary emphasis was on the high-speed forward flight performance of the rotor. The correlation data base included both the wind tunnel and the flight test results. An advanced ABC rotor design was examined; the suitability of the ABC for a particular mission was not considered. The objective of this technology assessment was to provide estimates of the performance potential of an advanced ABC rotor designed for high speed forward flight.

Arrow-wing supersonic cruise aircraft structural design concepts evaluation. Volume 4: Sections 15 through 21

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sakata, I. F.; Davis, G. W.

1975-01-01

The analyses performed to provide structural mass estimates for the arrow wing supersonic cruise aircraft are presented. To realize the full potential for structural mass reduction, a spectrum of approaches for the wing and fuselage primary structure design were investigated. The objective was: (1) to assess the relative merits of various structural arrangements, concepts, and materials; (2) to select the structural approach best suited for the Mach 2.7 environment; and (3) to provide construction details and structural mass estimates based on in-depth structural design studies. Production costs, propulsion-airframe integration, and advanced technology assessment are included.

The Langley turbo-prop commuter design: A complete project description

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buttram, Greg; Horton, Keith; Keeter, Tim; Millhouse, Paul; Newberry, Kelli; Obyrne, Brian

1991-01-01

The primary objective of this project was to propose and prove the possibility of a new, advanced technology commuter aircraft design. Among the specifications were short to medium range capabilities, low seat per mile cost, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort. Based on market evaluation, we found that the optimum size for new regional aircraft is around 50 passengers; we have designed our aircraft for this capacity. Turboprop engines provide substantial reductions in operating costs due to lower fuel consumption. We have therefore chosen an advanced turboprop engine. Composite materials, while more expensive to purchase and manufacture, result in decreased costs later through weight savings and ease of replacement.

Missing an opportunity: the embedded nature of weight management in primary care

PubMed Central

Osunlana, A. M.; Ogunleye, A. A.; Sharma, A. M.; Campbell‐Scherer, D.

2015-01-01

Summary The 5As Team study was designed to create, implement and evaluate a flexible intervention to improve the quality and quantity of weight management visits in primary care. The objective of this portion of the study was to explore how primary care providers incorporate weight management in their practice. 5AsT is a randomized controlled trial (RCT) on the implementation of a 6‐month 5 As Team (5AsT) intervention designed to operationalize the 5As of obesity management in primary care. Data for the qualitative portion of the study presented here included semi‐structured interviews with 29 multidisciplinary team providers and field notes of intervention sessions. Thematic analysis was undertaken. A key pattern that emerged from the data was that healthcare providers usually do not address obesity as a primary focus for a visit. Rather, obesity is embedded in a wide range of primary care encounters for other conditions. Implications were it can take extra time to discuss weight, it can be inappropriate to bring up weight as a topic, and treating risk factors and root causes of obesity have indirect benefits to patient weight management. Our findings have implications for obesity treatment approaches and tools that assume a discreet weight management visit. The embedded nature of obesity management in primary care can be harnessed to leverage multiple opportunities for asking and assessing root causes of obesity, and working longitudinally towards individual health goals. PMID:26303812

Developments in the safe design of LNG tanks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fulford, N. J.; Slatter, M. D.

The objective of this paper is to discuss how the gradual development of design concepts for liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage systems has helped to enhance storage safety and economy. The experience in the UK is compared with practice in other countries with similar LNG storage requirements. Emphasis is placed on the excellent record of safety and reliability exhibited by tanks with a primary metal container designed and constructed to approved standards. The work carried out to promote the development of new materials, fire protection, and monitoring systems for use in LNG storage is also summarized, and specific examples described from British Gas experience. Finally, the trends in storage tank design world-wide and options for future design concepts are discussed, bearing in mind planned legislation and design codes governing hazardous installations.

A systematic review of evidence on the links between patient experience and clinical safety and effectiveness

PubMed Central

Doyle, Cathal; Lennox, Laura; Bell, Derek

2013-01-01

Objective To explore evidence on the links between patient experience and clinical safety and effectiveness outcomes. Design Systematic review. Setting A wide range of settings within primary and secondary care including hospitals and primary care centres. Participants A wide range of demographic groups and age groups. Primary and secondary outcome measures A broad range of patient safety and clinical effectiveness outcomes including mortality, physical symptoms, length of stay and adherence to treatment. Results This study, summarising evidence from 55 studies, indicates consistent positive associations between patient experience, patient safety and clinical effectiveness for a wide range of disease areas, settings, outcome measures and study designs. It demonstrates positive associations between patient experience and self-rated and objectively measured health outcomes; adherence to recommended clinical practice and medication; preventive care (such as health-promoting behaviour, use of screening services and immunisation); and resource use (such as hospitalisation, length of stay and primary-care visits). There is some evidence of positive associations between patient experience and measures of the technical quality of care and adverse events. Overall, it was more common to find positive associations between patient experience and patient safety and clinical effectiveness than no associations. Conclusions The data presented display that patient experience is positively associated with clinical effectiveness and patient safety, and support the case for the inclusion of patient experience as one of the central pillars of quality in healthcare. It supports the argument that the three dimensions of quality should be looked at as a group and not in isolation. Clinicians should resist sidelining patient experience as too subjective or mood-oriented, divorced from the ‘real’ clinical work of measuring safety and effectiveness. PMID:23293244

Two color holographic interferometry for microgravity application

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trolinger, James D.

1993-01-01

Holographic interferometry is a primary candidate for the measurement of temperature and concentration in various crystal growth experiments destined for space. The method measures refractive index changes in the experiment test cell. A refractive index change can be caused by concentration changes, temperature changes, or a combination of temperature and concentration changes. If the refractive index changes are caused by temperature and concentration changes occurring simultaneously in the experiment test cell, the contributions by the two effects cannot be separated by conventional measurement methods. By using two wavelengths, two independent interferograms can be produced from the reconstruction of the hologram. The two interferograms will be different due to dispersion properties of fluid materials. These differences provide the additional information that allows the separation of simultaneously occurring temperature and concentration gradients. There is no other technique available that can provide this type of information. The primary objectives of this effort are to experimentally verify the mathematical theory of two color holographic interferometry and to determine the practical value of this technique for space application. To achieve these objectives, the accuracy and sensitivity of the technique must be determined for geometry's and materials that are relevant to the Materials Processing in the Space program of NASA. This will be achieved through the use of a specially designed two-color holographic interferometry breadboard optical system. In addition to experiments to achieve the primary goals, the breadboard will also provide inputs to the design of an optimum space flight system.

AgRISTARS: Agriculture and resources inventory surveys through aerospace remote sensing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1981-01-01

The major objectives and FY 1980 accomplishments are described of a long term program designed to determine the usefulness, cost, and extent to which aerospace remote sensing data can be integrated into existing or future USDA systems to improve the objectivity, reliability, timeliness, and adequacy of information. A general overview, the primary and participating agencies, and the technical highlights of each of the following projects are presented: early warning/crop condition assessment; foreign commodity production forecasting; yield model development; supporting research; soil moisture; domestic crops and land cover; renewable resources inventory; and conservation and pollution.

Evidence-Based Design Features Improve Sleep Quality Among Psychiatric Inpatients.

PubMed

Pyrke, Ryan J L; McKinnon, Margaret C; McNeely, Heather E; Ahern, Catherine; Langstaff, Karen L; Bieling, Peter J

2017-10-01

The primary aim of the present study was to compare sleep characteristics pre- and post-move into a state-of-the-art mental health facility, which offered private sleeping quarters. Significant evidence points toward sleep disruption among psychiatric inpatients. It is unclear, however, how environmental factors (e.g., dorm-style rooms) impact sleep quality in this population. To assess sleep quality, a novel objective technology, actigraphy, was used before and after a facility move. Subjective daily interviews were also administered, along with the Horne-Ostberg Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Actigraphy revealed significant improvements in objective sleep quality following the facility move. Interestingly, subjective report of sleep quality did not correlate with the objective measures. Circadian sleep type appeared to play a role in influencing subjective attitudes toward sleep quality. Built environment has a significant effect on the sleep quality of psychiatric inpatients. Given well-documented disruptions in sleep quality present among psychiatric patients undergoing hospitalization, design elements like single patient bedrooms are highly desirable.

Acoustic Treatment Design Scaling Methods. Volume 1; Overview, Results, and Recommendations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kraft, R. E.; Yu, J.

1999-01-01

Scale model fan rigs that simulate new generation ultra-high-bypass engines at about 1/5-scale are achieving increased importance as development vehicles for the design of low-noise aircraft engines. Testing at small scale allows the tests to be performed in existing anechoic wind tunnels, which provides an accurate simulation of the important effects of aircraft forward motion on the noise generation. The ability to design, build, and test miniaturized acoustic treatment panels on scale model fan rigs representative of the fullscale engine provides not only a cost-savings, but an opportunity to optimize the treatment by allowing tests of different designs. The primary objective of this study was to develop methods that will allow scale model fan rigs to be successfully used as acoustic treatment design tools. The study focuses on finding methods to extend the upper limit of the frequency range of impedance prediction models and acoustic impedance measurement methods for subscale treatment liner designs, and confirm the predictions by correlation with measured data. This phase of the program had as a goal doubling the upper limit of impedance measurement from 6 kHz to 12 kHz. The program utilizes combined analytical and experimental methods to achieve the objectives.

Design Pattern Mining Using Distributed Learning Automata and DNA Sequence Alignment

PubMed Central

Esmaeilpour, Mansour; Naderifar, Vahideh; Shukur, Zarina

2014-01-01

Context Over the last decade, design patterns have been used extensively to generate reusable solutions to frequently encountered problems in software engineering and object oriented programming. A design pattern is a repeatable software design solution that provides a template for solving various instances of a general problem. Objective This paper describes a new method for pattern mining, isolating design patterns and relationship between them; and a related tool, DLA-DNA for all implemented pattern and all projects used for evaluation. DLA-DNA achieves acceptable precision and recall instead of other evaluated tools based on distributed learning automata (DLA) and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequences alignment. Method The proposed method mines structural design patterns in the object oriented source code and extracts the strong and weak relationships between them, enabling analyzers and programmers to determine the dependency rate of each object, component, and other section of the code for parameter passing and modular programming. The proposed model can detect design patterns better that available other tools those are Pinot, PTIDEJ and DPJF; and the strengths of their relationships. Results The result demonstrate that whenever the source code is build standard and non-standard, based on the design patterns, then the result of the proposed method is near to DPJF and better that Pinot and PTIDEJ. The proposed model is tested on the several source codes and is compared with other related models and available tools those the results show the precision and recall of the proposed method, averagely 20% and 9.6% are more than Pinot, 27% and 31% are more than PTIDEJ and 3.3% and 2% are more than DPJF respectively. Conclusion The primary idea of the proposed method is organized in two following steps: the first step, elemental design patterns are identified, while at the second step, is composed to recognize actual design patterns. PMID:25243670

High-Performance Java Codes for Computational Fluid Dynamics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Riley, Christopher; Chatterjee, Siddhartha; Biswas, Rupak; Biegel, Bryan (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The computational science community is reluctant to write large-scale computationally -intensive applications in Java due to concerns over Java's poor performance, despite the claimed software engineering advantages of its object-oriented features. Naive Java implementations of numerical algorithms can perform poorly compared to corresponding Fortran or C implementations. To achieve high performance, Java applications must be designed with good performance as a primary goal. This paper presents the object-oriented design and implementation of two real-world applications from the field of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD): a finite-volume fluid flow solver (LAURA, from NASA Langley Research Center), and an unstructured mesh adaptation algorithm (2D_TAG, from NASA Ames Research Center). This work builds on our previous experience with the design of high-performance numerical libraries in Java. We examine the performance of the applications using the currently available Java infrastructure and show that the Java version of the flow solver LAURA performs almost within a factor of 2 of the original procedural version. Our Java version of the mesh adaptation algorithm 2D_TAG performs within a factor of 1.5 of its original procedural version on certain platforms. Our results demonstrate that object-oriented software design principles are not necessarily inimical to high performance.

STS-65 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W., Jr.

1994-01-01

The STS-65 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report summarizes the Payload activities as well as the Orbiter, External Tank (ET), Solid Rocket Booster (SRB), Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM), and the Space Shuttle main engine (SSME) systems performance during the sixty-third flight of the Space Shuttle Program and the seventeenth flight of the Orbiter vehicle Columbia (OV-102). In addition to the Orbits the flight vehicle consisted of an ET that was designated ET-64; three SSME's that were designated as serial numbers 2019, 2030, and 2017 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two SRB's that were designated Bl-066. The RSRM's that were installed in each SRB were designated as 360P039A for the left SRB, and 360W039 for the right SRB. The primary objective of this flight was to complete the operation of the second International Microgravity Laboratory (IML-2). The secondary objectives of this flight were to complete the operations of the Commercial Protein Crystal Growth (CPCG), Orbital Acceleration Research Experiment (OARE), and the Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment (SAREX) II payloads. Additional secondary objectives were to meet the requirements of the Air Force Maui Optical Site (AMOS) and the Military Application Ship Tracks (MAST) payloads, which were manifested as payloads of opportunity.

Primary care models for treating opioid use disorders: What actually works? A systematic review

PubMed Central

Klasa, Katarzyna; Bush, Christopher; Heisler, Michele; Chopra, Vineet; Bohnert, Amy

2017-01-01

Background Primary care-based models for Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) have been shown to reduce mortality for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and have equivalent efficacy to MAT in specialty substance treatment facilities. Objective The objective of this study is to systematically analyze current evidence-based, primary care OUD MAT interventions and identify program structures and processes associated with improved patient outcomes in order to guide future policy and implementation in primary care settings. Data sources PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsychInfo. Methods We included randomized controlled or quasi experimental trials and observational studies evaluating OUD treatment in primary care settings treating adult patient populations and assessed structural domains using an established systems engineering framework. Results We included 35 interventions (10 RCTs and 25 quasi-experimental interventions) that all tested MAT, buprenorphine or methadone, in primary care settings across 8 countries. Most included interventions used joint multi-disciplinary (specialty addiction services combined with primary care) and coordinated care by physician and non-physician provider delivery models to provide MAT. Despite large variability in reported patient outcomes, processes, and tasks/tools used, similar key design factors arose among successful programs including integrated clinical teams with support staff who were often advanced practice clinicians (nurses and pharmacists) as clinical care managers, incorporating patient “agreements,” and using home inductions to make treatment more convenient for patients and providers. Conclusions The findings suggest that multidisciplinary and coordinated care delivery models are an effective strategy to implement OUD treatment and increase MAT access in primary care, but research directly comparing specific structures and processes of care models is still needed. PMID:29040331

Durability of structural lumber products at high temperatures. Part I, 66C at 75% RH and 82C at 30% RH

Treesearch

David W. Green; James W. Evans; Bruce A. Craig

2003-01-01

The effect of temperature on properties can be separated into reversible and permanent effects. The National Design Specification (NDS) provides factors (Ct) for reducing properties for reversible effects but provides little guidance on permanent effects. The primary objective of this paper is to evaluate the effect of prolonged heating (permanent effect) on the...

Using an Augmented Reality Enhanced Tabletop System to Promote Learning of Mathematics: A Case Study with Students with Special Educational Needs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cascales-Martínez, Antonia; Martínez-Segura, María-José; Pérez-López, David; Contero, Manuel

2017-01-01

The main objective of this research is to determine the feasibility of using a multi touch tabletop system for applied mathematics learning in primary education with students with special needs (SEN). The instructional content designed on the tabletop focuses on understanding and managing money, coins, and banknotes. The study also analyzes the…

"At Risk of Harm"? An Exploratory Survey of School Counsellors in the UK, Their Perceptions of Confidentiality, Information Sharing and Risk Management

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jenkins, Peter; Palmer, Joanne

2012-01-01

The primary objective of this study was to explore perceptions of UK school counsellors of confidentiality and information sharing in therapeutic work with children and young people, using qualitative methods. The research design employed a two-stage process, using questionnaires and follow-up interviews, with a small, non-random sample of school…

Teacher's Digital Skills in Relation to Their Age, Gender, Time of Usage and Training with a Tablet

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cantú-Ballesteros, Lorenia; Urías-Murrieta, Maricela; Figueroa-Rodríguez, Sebastián; Salazar-Lugo, Guillermo M.

2017-01-01

The present studies objective was to determine the digital level capabilities of primary school teachers and their relation with certain sociodemographic factors. The focus was quantitative and a cross-sectional survey design for two or more groups was used. The sample was non-probabilistic and included 88 fifth and sixth grade teachers from 32…

Combustion Technology for Incinerating Wastes from Air Force Industrial Processes.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-02-01

The assumption of equilibrium between environmental compartments. * The statistical extrapolations yielding "safe" doses of various constituents...would be contacted to identify the assumptions and data requirements needed to design, construct and implement the model. The model’s primary objective...Recovery Planning Model (RRPLAN) is described. This section of the paper summarizes the model’s assumptions , major components and modes of operation

The 5K70SK automatically tuned, high power, S-band klystron

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldfinger, A.

1977-01-01

Primary objectives include delivery of 44 5K70SK klystron amplifier tubes and 26 remote tuner assemblies with spare parts kits. Results of a reliability demonstration on a klystron test cavity are discussed, along with reliability tests performed on a remote tuning unit. Production problems and one design modification are reported and discussed. Results of PAT and DVT are included.

The Establishment of a New Friction Stir Welding Process Development Facility at NASA/MSFC

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vaughn, Timothy P.

2012-01-01

The primary objective of full scale development is to mitigate scale-up issues before the vehicle ever reaches production and verify assembly design models. Only at full scale can the true challenges associated with production be identified and dealt with. Also, only at full scale can the delta shift between lab and subscale hardware manufacture and assembly be assessed.

Ship Structure Committee Publications. A Special Bibliography.

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-01-01

STEEL AND SUPPLEMENT ON EMBRITTLEMENT OF "C" STEEL BY NITROGEN Evans, EB. K lingler , Li .......................................................... 13...FROM: NTIS AD-8710SSC-28 CAUSES OF CLEAVAGE FRACTURE IN SHIP PLATE, HIGH YIELD STRENGTH STRUCTURAL STEEL SSC-31 The primary objective of the... careful design, selection of materials, and PART II: THE EFFECT OF SUBCRITICAL HEAT TREATMENT ON goo. workmanship are of the greatest importance in

The Effect of 3D Virtual Learning Environment on Secondary School Third Grade Students' Attitudes toward Mathematics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simsek, Irfan

2016-01-01

With this research, in Second Life environment which is a three dimensional online virtual world, it is aimed to reveal the effects of student attitudes toward mathematics courses and design activities which will enable the third grade students of secondary school (primary education seventh grade) to see the 3D objects in mathematics courses in a…

An Evaluative Study of Primary Education in the Light of Policies and Plans in Pakistan (1947-2006)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parveen, Shahida

2008-01-01

The paper is based on a research conducted to evaluate primary education in the light of education policies and plans in Pakistan. This article discusses the objectives of primary education, and analyzes different education policies and plans regarding the achievements of objectives. Results revealed that the objectives of primary education were…

Sick-leave decisions for patients with severe subjective health complaints presenting in primary care: A cross-sectional study in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Abstract Objectives The primary objective of this study was to explore whether general practitioners (GPs) in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark make similar or different decisions regarding sick leave for patients with severe subjective health complaints (SHC). The secondary objective was to investigate if patient diagnoses, the reasons attributed for patient complaints, and GP demographics could explain variations in sick leave decisions. Design A cross-sectional study. Method Video vignettes of GP consultations with nine different patients. Subjects 126 GPs in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Setting Primary care in Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. Main outcome measure Sick leave decisions made by GPs. Results “Psychological” diagnoses in Sweden were related to lower odds ratio (OR) of granting sick leave than in Norway (OR = 0.07; 95% CI = 0.01–0.83) Assessments of patient health, the risk of deterioration, and their ability to work predicted sick leave decisions. Specialists in general medicine grant significantly fewer sick leaves than non-specialists. Conclusion Sick-leave decisions made by GPs in the three countries were relatively similar. However, Swedish GPs were more reluctant to grant sick leave for patients with “psychological” diagnoses. Assessments regarding health-related factors were more important than diagnoses in sick-leave decisions. Specialist training may be of importance for sick-leave decisions. PMID:24164371

STA-2A NDT testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewis, T. J.

1987-01-01

The nondestructive testing (NDT) on the Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Booster (SRB) filament wound case (FWC) short stact structural test articles 2 (STA-2A) during test of phases 1B-9C is described. The primary objective of this testing was to verify the structural integrity of the SRB-FWC for critical design loads. Another objective was to quantify the effect of load distributions in the aft skirt. The NDT objectives were to determine the acoustic emission characteristics of the FWC-SRB and to identify possible design deficiencies or defect growth. The results from the posttest inspection of the samples shows the depth measurements taken were accurate until exceeding .260 inches thickness. The data then show that pulse echo measurements exceeded actual part thickness by 10 to 14 percent. The mapping of forward boundaries of delaminations proved to be within the tolerance of the equipment. Using the ZIP probe, the maximum difference between the pulse echo boundary and the visual boundary was expected to be no greater than one half the diameter of the probe. The NDT performance on STA-2A shows how NDT can be used to assist design engineering in evaluating the structural integrity of composite test articles.

Visualization of diversity in large multivariate data sets.

PubMed

Pham, Tuan; Hess, Rob; Ju, Crystal; Zhang, Eugene; Metoyer, Ronald

2010-01-01

Understanding the diversity of a set of multivariate objects is an important problem in many domains, including ecology, college admissions, investing, machine learning, and others. However, to date, very little work has been done to help users achieve this kind of understanding. Visual representation is especially appealing for this task because it offers the potential to allow users to efficiently observe the objects of interest in a direct and holistic way. Thus, in this paper, we attempt to formalize the problem of visualizing the diversity of a large (more than 1000 objects), multivariate (more than 5 attributes) data set as one worth deeper investigation by the information visualization community. In doing so, we contribute a precise definition of diversity, a set of requirements for diversity visualizations based on this definition, and a formal user study design intended to evaluate the capacity of a visual representation for communicating diversity information. Our primary contribution, however, is a visual representation, called the Diversity Map, for visualizing diversity. An evaluation of the Diversity Map using our study design shows that users can judge elements of diversity consistently and as or more accurately than when using the only other representation specifically designed to visualize diversity.

The role of population monitoring in the management of North American waterfowl

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nichols, J.D.; Williams, B.K.; Johnson, F.A.

2000-01-01

Despite the effort and expense devoted to large-scale monitoring programs, few existing programs have been designed with specific objectives in mind and few permit strong inferences about the dynamics of monitored systems. The waterfowl population monitoring programs of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Canadian Wildlife Service and state and provincial agencies provide a nice example with respect to program objectives, design and implementation. The May Breeding Grounds Survey provides an estimate of system state (population size) that serves two primary purposes in the adaptive management process: identifying the appropriate time-specific management actions and updating the information state (model weights) by providing a basis for evaluating predictions of competing models. Other waterfowl monitoring programs (e.g., banding program, hunter questionnaire survey, parts collection survey, winter survey) provide estimates of vital rates (rates of survival, reproduction and movement) associated with system dynamics and variables associated with management objectives (e.g., harvest). The reliability of estimates resulting from monitoring programs depends strongly on whether considerations about spatial variation and detection probability have been adequately incorporated into program design and implementation. Certain waterfowl surveys again provide nice examples of monitoring programs that incorporate these considerations.

STS-50 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1992-01-01

The STS-50 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the Orbiter, External Tank (ET), Solid Rocket Booster/Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor (SRB/RSRM), and the Space Shuttle main engine (SSME) subsystem performance during the forty-eighth flight of the Space Shuttle Program, and the twelfth flight of the Orbiter vehicle Columbia (OV-102). In addition to the Columbia vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of the following: an ET which was designated ET-50 (LUT-43); three SSME's which were serial numbers 2019, 2031, and 2011 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two SRB's which were designated BI-051. The lightweight/redesigned RSRM's installed in each SRB were designated 360L024A for the left RSRM and 360M024B for the right RSRM. The primary objective of the STS-50 flight was to successfully perform the planned operations of the United States Microgravity Laboratory (USML-1) payload. The secondary objectives of this flight were to perform the operations required by the Investigations into Polymer Membrane Processing (IPMP), and the Shuttle Amateur Radio Experiment 2 (SAREX-2) payloads. An additional secondary objective was to meet the requirements of the Ultraviolet Plume Instrument (UVPI), which was flown as a payload of opportunity.

Design assurance test of the Thiokol Te-M-521-5 apogee kick motor tested in the spin mode at simulated altitude conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cimino, A. A.

1973-01-01

One Thiokol Chemical Corporation TE-M-521-5 solid-propellant apogee rocket motor was successfully fired at an average simulated altitude of about 108,000 ft while spinning at 46 rpm. The general program objectives were to verify compliance of motor performance with the manufacturer's specifications. Specific primary objectives were to determine vacuum ballistic performance of the motor after prefire vibration conditioning and temperature conditioning at 40F, altitude ignition characteristics, motor structural integrity, and motor temperature-time history during and after motor operation. Additional objectives were to measure the lateral (nonaxial) thrust component during motor operation and to measure radiation heat flux in the vicinity of the nozzle exit plane.

A Monte Carlo analysis of the Viking lander dynamics at touchdown. [soft landing simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Muraca, R. J.; Campbell, J. W.; King, C. A.

1975-01-01

The performance of the Viking lander has been evaluated by using a Monte Carlo simulation, and all results are presented in statistical form. The primary objectives of this analysis were as follows: (1) to determine the three sigma design values of maximum rigid body accelerations and the minimum clearance of the lander body during landing; (2) to determine the probability of an unstable landing; and (3) to determine the probability of the lander body striking a rock. Two configurations were analyzed with the only difference being in the ability of the primary landing gear struts to carry tension loads.

A long duration balloon-borne telescope for solar gamma-ray astronomy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Owens, Alan; Chupp, Edward L.; Dunphy, Philip P.

1989-01-01

A new solar gamma-ray telescope is described which is intended to take advantage of current long-duration ballon facilities such as the RACOON system. The primary scientific objective is to detect and measure gamma-ray lines from solar flares, along with the associated low-energy continuum. The proposed instrument is centered on a multiheaded Ge system and is designed to operate over the energy range 50 keV to 200 200 MeV. In the nuclear transition energy region, the average energy resolution of the primary detectors is over 20 times better than that achieved with the gamma-ray spectrometer on the Solar Maximum Mission satellite.

A long duration balloon-borne telescope for solar gamma-ray astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Owens, Alan; Chupp, Edward L.; Dunphy, Philip P.

A new solar gamma-ray telescope is described which is intended to take advantage of current long-duration ballon facilities such as the RACOON system. The primary scientific objective is to detect and measure gamma-ray lines from solar flares, along with the associated low-energy continuum. The proposed instrument is centered on a multiheaded Ge system and is designed to operate over the energy range 50 keV to 200 200 MeV. In the nuclear transition energy region, the average energy resolution of the primary detectors is over 20 times better than that achieved with the gamma-ray spectrometer on the Solar Maximum Mission satellite.

First Lunar Outpost support study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bartz, Christopher; Cook, John; Rusingizandekwe, Jean-Luc

1993-01-01

The First Lunar Outpost (FLO) is the first manned step in the accomplishment of the Space Exploration Initiative, the Vice President's directive to NASA on the 20th anniversary of the Apollo moon landing. FLO's broad objectives are the establishment of a permanent human presence on the moon, supporting the utilization of extraterrestrial resources in a long-term, sustained program. The primary objective is to emplace and validate the first elements of a man tended outpost on the lunar surface to provide the basis for: (1) establishing, maintaining and expanding human activities and influence across the surface; (2) establishing, maintaining and enhancing human safety and productivity; (3) accommodating space transportation operations to and from the surface; (4) accommodating production of scientific information; (5) exploiting in-situ resources. Secondary objectives are: (1) to conduct local, small scale science (including life science); (2) In-situ resource utilization (ISRU) demonstrations; (3) engineering and operations tests; (4) to characterize the local environment; and (5) to explore locally. The current work is part of ongoing research at the Sasakawa International Center for Space Architecture supporting NASA's First Lunar Outpost initiative. Research at SICSA supporting the First Lunar Outpost initiative has been funded through the Space Exploration Initiatives office at Johnson Space Center. The objectives of the current study are to further develop a module concept from an evaluation of volumetric and programmatic requirements, and pursue a high fidelity design of this concept, with the intention of providing a high fidelity design mockup to research planetary design issues and evaluate future design concepts.

Design pattern mining using distributed learning automata and DNA sequence alignment.

PubMed

Esmaeilpour, Mansour; Naderifar, Vahideh; Shukur, Zarina

2014-01-01

Over the last decade, design patterns have been used extensively to generate reusable solutions to frequently encountered problems in software engineering and object oriented programming. A design pattern is a repeatable software design solution that provides a template for solving various instances of a general problem. This paper describes a new method for pattern mining, isolating design patterns and relationship between them; and a related tool, DLA-DNA for all implemented pattern and all projects used for evaluation. DLA-DNA achieves acceptable precision and recall instead of other evaluated tools based on distributed learning automata (DLA) and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequences alignment. The proposed method mines structural design patterns in the object oriented source code and extracts the strong and weak relationships between them, enabling analyzers and programmers to determine the dependency rate of each object, component, and other section of the code for parameter passing and modular programming. The proposed model can detect design patterns better that available other tools those are Pinot, PTIDEJ and DPJF; and the strengths of their relationships. The result demonstrate that whenever the source code is build standard and non-standard, based on the design patterns, then the result of the proposed method is near to DPJF and better that Pinot and PTIDEJ. The proposed model is tested on the several source codes and is compared with other related models and available tools those the results show the precision and recall of the proposed method, averagely 20% and 9.6% are more than Pinot, 27% and 31% are more than PTIDEJ and 3.3% and 2% are more than DPJF respectively. The primary idea of the proposed method is organized in two following steps: the first step, elemental design patterns are identified, while at the second step, is composed to recognize actual design patterns.

Micro-jitter attenuation of spaceborne cooler by using a blade-type hyperelastic shape memory alloy passive isolator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwon, Seong-Cheol; Jeon, Young-Hyeon; Oh, Hyun-Ung

2017-10-01

In this study, the primary design objective is to develop a passive isolator that can guarantee structural safety of the cooler assembly in a launch vibration environment without a launch locking mechanism, while effectively isolating the cooler-induced micro-jitter during the on-orbit operation of the cooler. To achieve the design objective, we focused on the utilization of characteristics of the hyperelastic shape memory effects. The major advantage of the isolator is that the micro-jitter isolation performance is much less sensitive to the aligned position of the isolator in comparison with the conventional isolator. Moreover, implementation of an additional 0g compensation device during a satellite level on-ground test, such as a jitter measurement test, is not required. In this study, the basic characteristics of the isolator were measured using the torque test and free vibration test. The micro-jitter attenuation capability and position sensitivity of the proposed isolator design were validated by the micro-jitter measurement test.

The New Meteor Radar at Penn State: Design and First Observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Urbina, J.; Seal, R.; Dyrud, L.

2011-01-01

In an effort to provide new and improved meteor radar sensing capabilities, Penn State has been developing advanced instruments and technologies for future meteor radars, with primary objectives of making such instruments more capable and more cost effective in order to study the basic properties of the global meteor flux, such as average mass, velocity, and chemical composition. Using low-cost field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), combined with open source software tools, we describe a design methodology enabling one to develop state-of-the art radar instrumentation, by developing a generalized instrumentation core that can be customized using specialized output stage hardware. Furthermore, using object-oriented programming (OOP) techniques and open-source tools, we illustrate a technique to provide a cost-effective, generalized software framework to uniquely define an instrument s functionality through a customizable interface, implemented by the designer. The new instrument is intended to provide instantaneous profiles of atmospheric parameters and climatology on a daily basis throughout the year. An overview of the instrument design concepts and some of the emerging technologies developed for this meteor radar are presented.

Design of microcamera for field curvature and distortion correction in monocentric multiscale foveated imaging system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Xiongxiong; Wang, Xiaorui; Zhang, Jianlei; Yuan, Ying; Chen, Xiaoxiang

2017-04-01

To realize large field of view (FOV) and high-resolution dynamic gaze of the moving target, this paper proposes the monocentric multiscale foveated (MMF) imaging system based on monocentric multiscale design and foveated imaging. First we present the MMF imaging system concept. Then we analyze large field curvature and distortion of the secondary image when the spherical intermediate image produced by the primary monocentric objective lens is relayed by the microcameras. Further a type of zoom endoscope objective lens is selected as the initial structure and optimized to minimize the field curvature and distortion with ZEMAX optical design software. The simulation results show that the maximum field curvature in full field of view is below 0.25 mm and the maximum distortion in full field of view is below 0.6%, which can meet the requirements of the microcamera in the proposed MMF imaging system. In addition, a simple doublet is used to design the foveated imaging system. Results of the microcamera together with the foveated imager compose the results of the whole MMF imaging system.

A decentralized and onsite wastewater management course: bringing together global concerns and practical pedagogy.

PubMed

Gaulke, L S; Borgford-Parnell, J L; Stensel, H D

2008-01-01

This paper reports on the design, implementation, and results of a course focused on decentralized and onsite wastewater treatment in global contexts. Problem-based learning was the primary pedagogical method, with which students tackled real-world problems and designed systems to meet the needs of diverse populations. Both learning and course evaluations demonstrated that the course was successful in fulfilling learning objectives, increasing student design skills, and raising awareness of global applications. Based on this experience a list of recommendations was created for co-developing and team-teaching multidisciplinary design courses. These recommendations include ideas for aligning student and teacher goals, overcoming barriers to effective group-work, and imbedding continuous course assessments. Copyright IWA Publishing 2008.

Design review of fluid film bearing testers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Scharrer, Joseph K.

1993-01-01

The designs of three existing testers (Hybrid Bearing Tester, OTV Bearing Tester, and Long Life Bearing Tester) owned by NASA were reviewed for their capability to serve as a multi-purpose cryogenic fluid film bearing tester. The primary tester function is the validation of analytical predictions for fluid film bearing steady state and dynamic performance. Evaluation criteria were established for test bearing configurations, test fluids, instrumentation, and test objectives. Each tester was evaluated with respect to these criteria. A determination was made of design improvements which would allow the testers to meet the stated criteria. The cost and time required to make the design changes were estimated. A recommendation based on the results of this study was made to proceed with the Hybrid Bearing Tester.

Structural cost optimization of photovoltaic central power station modules and support structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sutton, P. D.; Stolte, W. J.; Marsh, R. O.

1979-01-01

The results of a comprehensive study of photovoltaic module structural support concepts for photovoltaic central power stations and their associated costs are presented. The objective of the study has been the identification of structural cost drivers. Parametric structural design and cost analyses of complete array systems consisting of modules, primary support structures, and foundations were performed. Area related module cost was found to be constant with design, size, and loading. A curved glass module concept was evaluated and found to have the potential to significantly reduce panel structural costs. Conclusions of the study are: array costs do not vary greatly among the designs evaluated; panel and array costs are strongly dependent on design loading; and the best support configuration is load dependent

Fertilizer Response Curves for Commercial Southern Forest Species Defined with an Un-Replicated Experimental Design.

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

Coleman, Mark; Aubrey, Doug; Coyle, David, R.

2005-11-01

There has been recent interest in use of non-replicated regression experimental designs in forestry, as the need for replication in experimental design is burdensome on limited research budgets. We wanted to determine the interacting effects of soil moisture and nutrient availability on the production of various southeastern forest trees (two clones of Populus deltoides, open pollinated Platanus occidentalis, Liquidambar styraciflua and Pinus taeda). Additionally, we required an understanding of the fertilizer response curve. To accomplish both objectives we developed a composite design that includes a core ANOVA approach to consider treatment interactions, with the addition of non-replicated regression plots receivingmore » a range of fertilizer levels for the primary irrigation treatment.« less

Ground station hardware for the ATS-F millimeter wave experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duffield, T. L.

1973-01-01

The results are presented of a program to design, fabricate, test, and install a primary ATS-F millimeter wave ground receiving station. Propagation parameters at millimeter waves are discussed along with the objective of the overall experiment. A general description is given of the receiving system and its function in the experiment. Typical receiver characteristics are presented which show that the experiment is entirely feasible from a link SNR standpoint. The receiving system hardware designs are discussed with separate treatment given to the propagation and the radiometer receiver designs. The modification and relocation are described of an existing 15-ft antenna to meet the ATS-F requirements. The design of a dual frequency feed subsystem and self calibration equipment is included.

Methodological considerations in the design and implementation of clinical trials.

PubMed

Cirrincione, Constance T; Lavoie Smith, Ellen M; Pang, Herbert

2014-02-01

To review study design issues related to clinical trials led by oncology nurses, with special attention to those conducted within the cooperative group setting; to emphasize the importance of the statistician's role in the process of clinical trials. Studies available at clinicaltrials.gov using experimental designs that have been published in peer-reviewed journals; cooperative group trials are highlighted. The clinical trial is a primary means to test intervention efficacy. A properly designed and powered study with clear and measurable objectives is as important as the intervention itself. Collaboration among the study team, including the statistician, is central in developing and conducting appropriately designed studies. For optimal results, collaboration is an ongoing process that should begin early on. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An integrated approach to engineering curricula improvement with multi-objective decision modeling and linear programming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shea, John E.

The structure of engineering curricula currently in place at most colleges and universities has existed since the early 1950's, and reflects an historical emphasis on a solid foundation in math, science, and engineering science. However, there is often not a close match between elements of the traditional engineering education, and the skill sets that graduates need to possess for success in the industrial environment. Considerable progress has been made to restructure engineering courses and curricula. What is lacking, however, are tools and methodologies that incorporate the many dimensions of college courses, and how they are structured to form a curriculum. If curriculum changes are to be made, the first objective must be to determine what knowledge and skills engineering graduates need to possess. To accomplish this, a set of engineering competencies was developed from existing literature, and used in the development of a comprehensive mail survey of alumni, employers, students and faculty. Respondents proposed some changes to the topics in the curriculum and recommended that work to improve the curriculum be focused on communication, problem solving and people skills. The process of designing a curriculum is similar to engineering design, with requirements that must be met, and objectives that must be optimized. From this similarity came the idea for developing a linear, additive, multi-objective model that identifies the objectives that must be considered when designing a curriculum, and contains the mathematical relationships necessary to quantify the value of a specific alternative. The model incorporates the three primary objectives of engineering topics, skills, and curriculum design principles and uses data from the survey. It was used to design new courses, to evaluate various curricula alternatives, and to conduct sensitivity analysis to better understand their differences. Using the multi-objective model to identify the highest scoring curriculum from a catalog of courses is difficult because of the many factors being considered. To assist this process, the multi-objective model and the curriculum requirements were incorporated in a linear program to select the "optimum" curriculum. The application of this tool was also beneficial in identifying the active constraints that limit curriculum development and content.

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

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

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

2005-01-01

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

[Relationship between perceived emotional intelligence and professional quality of life with the achievement of occupational objectives in the costa del sol primary health care district].

PubMed

Macías Fernández, Antonio José; Gutiérrez-Castañeda, Carlos; Carmona González, Francisco Jesús; Crespillo Vílchez, Daniel

2016-05-01

To examine the relationship between "Quality of Professional Life" and "Perceived Emotional Intelligence" and the relationship of both of these with the level of achievement of occupational objectives in the Costa del Sol Primary Health Care District. Multicentre descriptive cross-sectional observational study. The Costa del Sol Primary Health Care District in the province of Málaga. Sample of Employees of all categories in fixed and contracted employment in the Management Units of the Costa del Sol District. (N=303). Respondents 247 (81.5%) The data collected was that of the percentage of achievement of objectives in 2010 and the socio-demographic data of the participants, using ad hoc designed self-report questionnaires. The TMMS -24 questionnaire was used to measure the "Perceived Emotional Intelligence", with the following dimensions: Perception, comprehension, and emotional control, and the CVP-35 measuring: management support, work demands, and intrinsic motivation. Significant correlationas were observed between Quality of Professional Life and Emotional Intelligence in the Regulation (p<.01) and Comprehension categories (p<0.05). There were also significant correlations between the profession and the type of contract in the achievement of objectives (p<.005), and quality of professional life and type of contract (p<.05). The perceived quality of professional life is related to perception and regulation dimensions of Emotional Intelligence. Knowledge of emotion management methods should be promoted by management organisations for all employees. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Re-Using of the Historical Buildings in the Context of Sustainablity: AN Architectural Design Studio Study on Old Girls Teacher Training School

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ulusoy, M.; Erdogan, E.; Erdogan, H. A.; Oral, M.

2013-07-01

Refunctioning is a widely used method for protecting historical structures. However, throughout architectural education, functioning historical structures and producing new designs in terms of historical pattern do not attract great attention within the framework of design studios. It is a fact that in such schools that abovementioned items are more popular, the connection between protection oriented studio and design studio is pretty weak. In this study refunctioning was discussed as a design studio topic in relation to the old girls' teacher training school and its immediate surroundings. The primary objective of this design studio is to increase architecture students' awareness in terms of visual and perceptual levels of project designs in historical patterns. Within the context of this manuscript, the experiences gained during design studio process were transferred and discussed.

High-brightness-solar-pumped Nd:YAG laser design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lando, Mordechai; Jenkins, David G.; Bernstein, Hana; O'Gallagher, Joseph J.; Winston, Roland; Lewandowski, Allan

1995-06-01

We have designed a Nd:YAG laser to be pumped by the High-Flux Solar Furnace (HFSF) at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Based on the unique features of the HFSF, the design objectives are high brightness and superior efficiency in primary mirror area utilization. The HFSF has a primary mirror of 11.5 m2 and a 1.85 f-number. With such a high f-number, the target is set off-axis and does not block incoming solar flux. Moreover, large f-number enables concentration which approaches the theoretical limit, and a two- dimensional non-imaging concentrator deposits the solar flux onto the internal part of a 10 mm diameter laser rod. For high brightness, we plan a wide low-loss fundamental mode and a laser rod aperture that suppresses high order modes. To get a fundamental mode, of up to a 2.5 mm waist, we have designed a convex-concave resonator, following well-known g1g2 equals 0.5 design for resonators with internal beam focusing. We have used the edge ray principle to design the concentrator, and ray traced the deposited power inside the laser rod. A 1.3% Nd doping level supports a maximal power deposition inside a 5 mm diameter.

Primary Objective Grating Astronomical Telescope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ditto, Thomas D.

2007-01-01

It has been 370 years since a seventeenth century French mathematician, Mersenne, presciently sketched out an astronomical telescope based on dual parabolic reflectors. Since that time the concept of the primary objective has been virtually unchanged. Now a new class of astronomical telescope with a primary objective grating (POG) has been studied as an alternative. The POG competes with mirrors, in part, because diffraction gratings provide the very chromatic dispersion that mirrors defeat. The resulting telescope deals effectively with long-standing restrictions on multiple object spectroscopy (MOS). Other potential benefits include unprecedented apertures and collection areas. The new design also favors space deployment as a gossamer membrane. The inventor, Tom Ditto, first discovered that higher-order diffraction images contain hidden depth cues, for which he was granted a seminal range finding patent in 1987. Subsequently, he invented and patented 3D localizers, profilometers and microscopes using POGs. The POG telescope was placed in the public domain to expedite research. The function of a telescopes primary objective is to collect flux and to deliver images. Both functions dictate that size matters, and bigger is better. For that reason, there has been a steady push over the past century to ramp up the size of the primary mirror. However, for every doubling of mirror diameter, the elapsed time between initial effort and first light has also doubled. Meanwhile, costs escalated beyond the mirror alone, because larger instruments required larger enclosures and better pointing mechanisms. One key catalog of observation, spectrographic data, is far more difficult to amass than two-dimensional imagery. While the number of observable objects has increased with mirror size, the capacity to take spectra has not increased proportionately. In the best of circumstances, spectrograms are available for one per cent of the all objects surveyed. Spectroscopy was a historical afterthought introduced in the nineteenth century shortly after the invention of the diffraction grating and over a century after Newtons 1670 telescope. Spectroscopy is generally accomplished using a diffraction grating as the disperser in the secondary. The light being delivered to the spectrograph is first captured by a primary mirror which provides no chromatic magnification by itself. Sizeable spectrographs could not be deployed while diffraction gratings were rare commodities scribed using mechanical ruling engines that produced one grating line at a time. Today diffraction gratings are commonplace. Their recent availability is a product of both the invention of holography and the mass replication of surface microstructures. Holography permits all lines in a grating to be made simultaneously in a single photographic exposure. Holograms can then be reproduced by embossing processes. The improvement in replication is analogous to how Gutenberg changed the availability of books. The masters may be expensive, but the copies are not. Computer science is another technology that emerged in the second half of the twentieth century without which our proposed spectrographic instrument could not function due to the complexity of image processing required in data reduction. The employment of very large diffraction gratings as primary objectives for astronomical telescopes requires a novel

Lightning protection technology for small general aviation composite material aircraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Plumer, J. A.; Setzer, T. E.; Siddiqi, S.

1993-01-01

An on going NASA (Small Business Innovative Research) SBIR Phase II design and development program will produce the first lightning protected, fiberglass, General Aviation aircraft that is available as a kit. The results obtained so far in development testing of typical components of the aircraft kit, such as the wing and fuselage panels indicate that the lightning protection design methodology and materials chosen are capable of protecting such small composite airframes from lightning puncture and structural damage associated with severe threat lightning strikes. The primary objective of the program has been to develop a lightening protection design for full scale test airframe and verify its adequacy with full scale laboratory testing, thus enabling production and sale of owner-built, lightning-protected, Stoddard-Hamilton Aircraft, Inc. Glasair II airplanes. A second objective has been to provide lightning protection design guidelines for the General Aviation industry, and to enable these airplanes to meet lightening protection requirements for certification of small airplanes. This paper describes the protection design approaches and development testing results obtained thus far in the program, together with design methodology which can achieve the design goals listed above. The presentation of this paper will also include results of some of the full scale verification tests, which will have been completed by the time of this conference.

Multiobjective hyper heuristic scheme for system design and optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rafique, Amer Farhan

2012-11-01

As system design is becoming more and more multifaceted, integrated, and complex, the traditional single objective optimization trends of optimal design are becoming less and less efficient and effective. Single objective optimization methods present a unique optimal solution whereas multiobjective methods present pareto front. The foremost intent is to predict a reasonable distributed pareto-optimal solution set independent of the problem instance through multiobjective scheme. Other objective of application of intended approach is to improve the worthiness of outputs of the complex engineering system design process at the conceptual design phase. The process is automated in order to provide the system designer with the leverage of the possibility of studying and analyzing a large multiple of possible solutions in a short time. This article presents Multiobjective Hyper Heuristic Optimization Scheme based on low level meta-heuristics developed for the application in engineering system design. Herein, we present a stochastic function to manage meta-heuristics (low-level) to augment surety of global optimum solution. Generic Algorithm, Simulated Annealing and Swarm Intelligence are used as low-level meta-heuristics in this study. Performance of the proposed scheme is investigated through a comprehensive empirical analysis yielding acceptable results. One of the primary motives for performing multiobjective optimization is that the current engineering systems require simultaneous optimization of conflicting and multiple. Random decision making makes the implementation of this scheme attractive and easy. Injecting feasible solutions significantly alters the search direction and also adds diversity of population resulting in accomplishment of pre-defined goals set in the proposed scheme.

Numerical aerodynamic simulation facility. Preliminary study extension

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

The production of an optimized design of key elements of the candidate facility was the primary objective of this report. This was accomplished by effort in the following tasks: (1) to further develop, optimize and describe the function description of the custom hardware; (2) to delineate trade off areas between performance, reliability, availability, serviceability, and programmability; (3) to develop metrics and models for validation of the candidate systems performance; (4) to conduct a functional simulation of the system design; (5) to perform a reliability analysis of the system design; and (6) to develop the software specifications to include a user level high level programming language, a correspondence between the programming language and instruction set and outline the operation system requirements.

Design and Experimental Results for the S825 Airfoil; Period of Performance: 1998-1999

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

Somers, D. M.

2005-01-01

A 17%-thick, natural-laminar-flow airfoil, the S825, for the 75% blade radial station of 20- to 40-meter, variable-speed and variable-pitch (toward feather), horizontal-axis wind turbines has been designed and analyzed theoretically and verified experimentally in the NASA Langley Low-Turbulence Pressure Tunnel. The two primary objectives of high maximum lift, relatively insensitive to roughness and low-profile drag have been achieved. The airfoil exhibits a rapid, trailing-edge stall, which does not meet the design goal of a docile stall. The constraints on the pitching moment and the airfoil thickness have been satisfied. Comparisons of the theoretical and experimental results generally show good agreement.

[Level of knowledge and action on lipaemia among Spanish primary and specialist care doctors. Press cholesterol study].

PubMed

Abellán Alemán, José; Leal Hernández, Mariano; Martínez Pastor, Antonio; Hernández Menárguez, Fernando; García-Galbis Marín, José Antonio; Jara Gómez, Purificación

2006-09-01

To find the level of knowledge, the guidelines for action and the monitoring of lipaemia by Spanish primary care and specialist doctors. A self-defined questionnaire of 12 items was designed. Data on the population treated and the subjective evaluation of objectives, and on the management and monitoring of lipid parameters were filled in. A total of 1998 doctors from the whole of Spain took part; 68.8% of the doctors interviewed worked in primary health care and 30.2% in specialist centres or hospitals. A 91% of the doctors said they followed international consensus on monitoring lipaemia. The most commonly used objective therapeutic parameter for treating lipaemia was LDL-cholesterol (83%), followed by total cholesterol (62%), HDL-cholesterol (56%) and triglycerides (51%). If the patient's lipaemia was well controlled, then 21.8% of doctors reduced the doses of lipid-lowerers. In general terms, no great differences were appreciated between the criteria followed by PC and by specialist doctors. The criteria for action on lipaemia could be improved. There are no important differences of view or action in clinical and therapeutic criteria for Lipaemia cases between PC and specialist doctors.

An objective and cross-sectional examination of sun-safe behaviours in New South Wales primary schools.

PubMed

Dudley, Dean A; Cotton, Wayne G; Winslade, Matthew J; Wright, Bradley J; Jackson, Kirsten S; Brown, Alexandra M; Rock, Vanessa

2017-01-05

Previous evaluations have supported the link between sun protection policies and improved sun protection behaviours. However these evaluations have relied on self-reported data. A cross-sectional design as part of an ongoing 18-month cluster-controlled trial in primary schools (n = 20) was used. Researchers conducted direct observations to record students' hat use and teachers' use of sun protective measures during recess and lunch. Researchers also recorded the volume of sunscreen consumed in each school. Only 60% of primary school children wear a sun-safe hat during their breaks when observed using objective measures. Weak correlations were observed between the wearing of a sun-safe hat and a school's socio-economic status (r = 0.26). All other independent variables measured had only very weak correlations (r < 0.19) with sun-safe hat wearing behaviour of students. Sunscreen consumption by school students during the school day is negligible. A large percentage of NSW primary schools in this study wear sun-safe hats during the school day but this is well below what has been reported in previous national surveys. Given the finite resources of schools and the correlation, though small, with SES status for these behaviours, it behoves researchers to investigate low-cost solutions to these problems. Further qualitative data will also be needed to inform the enablers and barriers for sun-safe behaviour interventions to be adopted in NSW primary schools.

Some observations on the behavior of the Langley model rotor blade

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rehfield, L. W.; Atilgan, A. R.

1986-01-01

The design of the model rotor and the comparative study of coupled beam theory and the finite element analysis performed earlier at the Aerostructures Directorate by Robert Hodges and Mark Nixon is examined. Attention is focused upon two matters: (1) an examination of the small discrepancies between twist angle predictions under pure torque and radial loading, and (2) an assessment of nonclassical effects in bending behavior. The primary objective is understanding, particularly with regard to cause and effect relationships. Understanding, together with the simple, affordable nature of the coupled beam analysis, provides a sound basis for design.

A library for the fifteenth through the twenty-first centuries.

PubMed Central

Cooper, R S

1991-01-01

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), began developing a program for a new library in 1977, started the design in 1985, began construction in 1988, and opened the library in September 1990. The primary objectives were to design and build a facility that would house print collections under optimal conditions, allow for ten years' growth, be flexible enough to permit future reconfiguration, support present and future technologies, and provide beautiful spaces in which to study. The planning process is summarized, planning concepts are outlined, and considerations for the electronic library are briefly reviewed. Images PMID:2039900

The Banister Allen Plantation (38AB102) and Thomas B. Clinkscales Farm: (38AB221) Data Recovery in the Richard B. Russell Multiple Resource Area Abbeville County, South Carolina.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-01-01

Background 12 2.4 Property History 16 Chapter 3. Project Goals and Methods 28 3.1 Goals and Objectives 28 , 3.2 Project Research Design 29 3.3 Literature...located within the designated recreational area associated with the margins of the proposed Russell Lake, and will also receive primary and secondary effect...cash crop, both in terms of acreage planted and cash value, despite the generally destructive infestation of boll weevils during the early 1920’s. Corn

Economic Education Experiences of Enterprising Teachers. Volume 19. A Report Developed from the 1980-81 Entries in the International Paper Company Foundation Awards Program for the Teaching of Economics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nappi, Andrew T., Ed.; Suglia, Anthony F., Ed.

Twenty-five award winning teacher developed projects and courses in economics are described. The projects are designed for use in primary, intermediate, junior high, and senior high schools. Descriptions indicate grade level, project background, time allotment, objectives, activities, and evaluation. The publication consists of five chapters.…

A Kid Like Me across the Sea: A Look into the World of a German Child. Social Studies, Grades Kindergarten-Grade 3. Update 2002.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blankenship, Glen

This instructional unit about Germany is designed for primary students and may be integrated into the existing curriculum or used as a stand-alone unit. Each lesson begins with an outline for teaching that includes instructional objectives, a list of needed materials, and a sequenced list of procedures for implementing the lesson. The unit is…

A Survey of Knowledge and Attitudes towards Martial Arts: Recommendations for a Recruitment Program in Continuing Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schaer, Barbara; Neal, Kathy

A study examined the level of knowledge about and the types of attitudes toward martial arts. The primary objective of the study was to gather information that could be used in designing a recruitment program for a continuing education course in martial arts. A survey instrument was administered to 60 males and 52 females between the ages of 15…

S825 and S826 Airfoils: 1994--1995

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

Somers, D. M.

2005-01-01

A family of airfoils, the S825 and S826, for 20- to 40-meter, variable-speed and variable-pitch (toward feather), horizontal-axis wind turbines has been designed and analyzed theoretically. The two primary objectives of high maximum lift, insensitive to roughness, and low profile drag have been achieved. The constraints on the pitching moments and the airfoil thicknesses have been satisfied. The airfoils should exhibit docile stalls.

Identifying the Cost of Non-monetary Incentives (ICONIC)

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-12-01

topics. a. Inspection Optimization Model The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed a linear programming model designed for a state air...and other special pays that can distort the environment and amenities that the next assignment offers.23 The primary objective of this work is to...Government Printing Office, 2005). http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d06125.pdf (accessed September 28, 2008). Van Boening, Mark, Tanja F. Blackstone

Using web technology and Java mobile software agents to manage outside referrals.

PubMed Central

Murphy, S. N.; Ng, T.; Sittig, D. F.; Barnett, G. O.

1998-01-01

A prototype, web-based referral application was created with the objective of providing outside primary care providers (PCP's) the means to refer patients to the Massachusetts General Hospital and the Brigham and Women's Hospital. The application was designed to achieve the two primary objectives of providing the consultant with enough data to make decisions even at the initial visit, and providing the PCP with a prompt response from the consultant. The system uses a web browser/server to initiate the referral and Java mobile software agents to support the workflow of the referral. This combination provides a light client implementation that can run on a wide variety of hardware and software platforms found in the office of the PCP. The implementation can guarantee a high degree of security for the computer of the PCP. Agents can be adapted to support the wide variety of data types that may be used in referral transactions, including reports with complex presentation needs and scanned (faxed) images Agents can be delivered to the PCP as running applications that can perform ongoing queries and alerts at the office of the PCP. Finally, the agent architecture is designed to scale in a natural and seamless manner for unforeseen future needs. PMID:9929190

Multi-objective Optimization of Pulsed Gas Metal Arc Welding Process Using Neuro NSGA-II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pal, Kamal; Pal, Surjya K.

2018-05-01

Weld quality is a critical issue in fabrication industries where products are custom-designed. Multi-objective optimization results number of solutions in the pareto-optimal front. Mathematical regression model based optimization methods are often found to be inadequate for highly non-linear arc welding processes. Thus, various global evolutionary approaches like artificial neural network, genetic algorithm (GA) have been developed. The present work attempts with elitist non-dominated sorting GA (NSGA-II) for optimization of pulsed gas metal arc welding process using back propagation neural network (BPNN) based weld quality feature models. The primary objective to maintain butt joint weld quality is the maximization of tensile strength with minimum plate distortion. BPNN has been used to compute the fitness of each solution after adequate training, whereas NSGA-II algorithm generates the optimum solutions for two conflicting objectives. Welding experiments have been conducted on low carbon steel using response surface methodology. The pareto-optimal front with three ranked solutions after 20th generations was considered as the best without further improvement. The joint strength as well as transverse shrinkage was found to be drastically improved over the design of experimental results as per validated pareto-optimal solutions obtained.

BATMAN: MOS Spectroscopy on Demand

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molinari, E.; Zamkotsian, F.; Moschetti, M.; Spano, P.; Boschin, W.; Cosentino, R.; Ghedina, A.; González, M.; Pérez, H.; Lanzoni, P.; Ramarijaona, H.; Riva, M.; Zerbi, F.; Nicastro, L.; Valenziano, L.; Di Marcantonio, P.; Coretti, I.; Cirami, R.

2016-10-01

Multi-Object Spectrographs (MOS) are the major instruments for studying primary galaxies and remote and faint objects. Current object selection systems are limited and/or difficult to implement in next generation MOS for space and ground-based telescopes. A promising solution is the use of MOEMS devices such as micromirror arrays, which allow the remote control of the multi-slit configuration in real time. TNG is hosting a novelty project for real-time, on-demand MOS masks based on MOEMS programmable slits. We are developing a 2048×1080 Digital-Micromirror-Device-based (DMD) MOS instrument to be mounted on the Galileo telescope, called BATMAN. It is a two-arm instrument designed for providing in parallel imaging and spectroscopic capabilities. With a field of view of 6.8×3.6 arcmin and a plate scale of 0.2 arcsec per micromirror, this astronomical setup can be used to investigate the formation and evolution of galaxies. The wavelength range is in the visible and the spectral resolution is R=560 for a 1 arcsec object, and the two arms will have 2k × 4k CCD detectors. ROBIN, a BATMAN demonstrator, has been designed, realized and integrated. We plan to have BATMAN first light by mid-2016.

A Reduced-Order Model For Zero-Mass Synthetic Jet Actuators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yamaleev, Nail K.; Carpenter, Mark H.; Vatsa, Veer S.

2007-01-01

Accurate details of the general performance of fluid actuators is desirable over a range of flow conditions, within some predetermined error tolerance. Designers typically model actuators with different levels of fidelity depending on the acceptable level of error in each circumstance. Crude properties of the actuator (e.g., peak mass rate and frequency) may be sufficient for some designs, while detailed information is needed for other applications (e.g., multiple actuator interactions). This work attempts to address two primary objectives. The first objective is to develop a systematic methodology for approximating realistic 3-D fluid actuators, using quasi-1-D reduced-order models. Near full fidelity can be achieved with this approach at a fraction of the cost of full simulation and only a modest increase in cost relative to most actuator models used today. The second objective, which is a direct consequence of the first, is to determine the approximate magnitude of errors committed by actuator model approximations of various fidelities. This objective attempts to identify which model (ranging from simple orifice exit boundary conditions to full numerical simulations of the actuator) is appropriate for a given error tolerance.

Technical developments in international satellite business services

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, P. P.

At the conception of International Satellite Business Services (ISBS), it was a primary objective to provide flexibility for accommodating a variety of service requirements which might be established by mutual agreement between users. The design guidelines are to ensure that the space segment is efficiently utilized, while other satellite services are protected from interference. Other considerations are related to an acceptable earth segment cost, maximum connectivity in worldwide services, the capability of growth and a reasonably smooth transition into future systems, and the maintenance of high performance objectives. Attention is given to a system overview, the characteristics of satellites for ISBS, and technological developments with some application possibilities for ISBS.

Nuclear reactor power as applied to a space-based radar mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jaffe, L.; Fujita, T.; Beatty, R.; Bhandari, P.; Chow, E.; Deininger, W.; Ewell, R.; Grossman, M.; Kia, T.; Nesmith, B.

1988-01-01

The SP-100 Project was established to develop and demonstrate feasibility of a space reactor power system (SRPS) at power levels of 10's of kilowatts to a megawatt. To help determine systems requirements for the SRPS, a mission and spacecraft were examined which utilize this power system for a space-based radar to observe moving objects. Aspects of the mission and spacecraft bearing on the power system were the primary objectives of this study; performance of the radar itself was not within the scope. The study was carried out by the Systems Design Audit Team of the SP-100 Project.

Lightweight structure design for supporting plate of primary mirror

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Xiao; Wang, Wei; Liu, Bei; Qu, Yan Jun; Li, Xu Peng

2017-10-01

A topological optimization design for the lightweight technology of supporting plate of the primary mirror is presented in this paper. The supporting plate of the primary mirror is topologically optimized under the condition of determined shape, loads and environment. And the optimal structure is obtained. The diameter of the primary mirror in this paper is 450mm, and the material is SiC1 . It is better to select SiC/Al as the supporting material. Six points of axial relative displacement can be used as constraints in optimization2 . Establishing the supporting plate model and setting up the model parameters. After analyzing the force of the main mirror on the supporting plate, the model is applied with force and constraints. Modal analysis and static analysis of supporting plates are calculated. The continuum structure topological optimization mathematical model is created with the variable-density method. The maximum deformation of the surface of supporting plate under the gravity of the mirror and the first model frequency are assigned to response variable, and the entire volume of supporting structure is converted to object function. The structures before and after optimization are analyzed using the finite element method. Results show that the optimized fundamental frequency increases 29.85Hz and has a less displacement compared with the traditional structure.

Louisiana (LA) Health: Design and Methods for a Childhood Obesity Prevention Program in Rural Schools

PubMed Central

Williamson, Donald A.; Champagne, Catherine M.; Harsha, David; Han, Hongmei; Martin, Corby K.; Newton, Robert; Stewart, Tiffany M.; Ryan, Donna H.

2008-01-01

There is a worldwide epidemic of obesity with far-reaching consequences for the health of our nation. Prevention of obesity, especially in children, has been deemed by public health policy makers to be one of the most important objectives for our country. This prevention project, called Louisiana (LA) Health, will test whether modification of environmental and behavioral factors can prevent inappropriate weight gain in children from rural parishes of Louisiana who are enrolled in the fourth to sixth grades during Year 1. The primary aim of the LA Health project is to test the efficacy of two school-based approaches for obesity prevention: primary prevention alone and a combination of primary and secondary prevention which will be compared to a no-intervention control group using a cluster randomization research design, with 17 school clusters randomly assigned to the three treatment arms. The study will span three years and will provide critical tests of strategies that: 1) modify the child’s environment as a primary prevention strategy and 2) provide health behavior modification via classroom instruction and internet counseling as a secondary prevention strategy. The study will also recruit a similar sample of students to measure changes in body weight relative to height, gender, and age over the same three-year period. PMID:18448393

Statistical analysis plan for the Alveolar Recruitment for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Trial (ART). A randomized controlled trial

PubMed Central

Damiani, Lucas Petri; Berwanger, Otavio; Paisani, Denise; Laranjeira, Ligia Nasi; Suzumura, Erica Aranha; Amato, Marcelo Britto Passos; Carvalho, Carlos Roberto Ribeiro; Cavalcanti, Alexandre Biasi

2017-01-01

Background The Alveolar Recruitment for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Trial (ART) is an international multicenter randomized pragmatic controlled trial with allocation concealment involving 120 intensive care units in Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Malaysia, Spain, and Uruguay. The primary objective of ART is to determine whether maximum stepwise alveolar recruitment associated with PEEP titration, adjusted according to the static compliance of the respiratory system (ART strategy), is able to increase 28-day survival in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome compared to conventional treatment (ARDSNet strategy). Objective To describe the data management process and statistical analysis plan. Methods The statistical analysis plan was designed by the trial executive committee and reviewed and approved by the trial steering committee. We provide an overview of the trial design with a special focus on describing the primary (28-day survival) and secondary outcomes. We describe our data management process, data monitoring committee, interim analyses, and sample size calculation. We describe our planned statistical analyses for primary and secondary outcomes as well as pre-specified subgroup analyses. We also provide details for presenting results, including mock tables for baseline characteristics, adherence to the protocol and effect on clinical outcomes. Conclusion According to best trial practice, we report our statistical analysis plan and data management plan prior to locking the database and beginning analyses. We anticipate that this document will prevent analysis bias and enhance the utility of the reported results. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01374022. PMID:28977255

A 4-meter Telescope for the US Air Force Academy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Buzasi, D.; Andersen, G.; Wetterer, C.

2004-05-01

The United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs has obtained a 4m-diameter, lightweight telescope from the discontinued Space Based Laser project. Originally designed and constructed for space, this segmented telescope is being reconfigured for use in a ground-based facility. The current optical design is an afocal Mersenne configuration with an extremely thin (17mm) glass primary. The telescope has 312 fine figure actuators for active shaping of the primary, as well as 42 piston actuators for phasing of the segments and adaptive optics capability with a 300-actuator deformable mirror and wavefront sensor. We are recoating and redesigning the optics (with new secondary and tertiary mirrors) and constructing a new truss and an alt-az mount with two Nasmyth foci capable of both sidereal and low-Earth object tracking down to altitudes of 200km. The telescope will be located in a new facility to be built next to the current USAFA Observatory. The primary use of the telescope will be for education by involving cadets in a wide range of Air Force experiments including active ranging, communication, and imaging and characterization of satellites. We envision, however, that substantial time will also be available for astronomy. Although the Colorado Springs site is not ideal for many astronomical uses, it does lend itself to easy access by cadets, faculty, and visitors, and is appropriate for spectroscopy and bright-object work. Compared to similar facilities around the world, we expect to have a large amount of time available for outside users.

Eligibility for clinical trials in primary Sjögren’s syndrome: lessons from the UK Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome Registry

PubMed Central

Oni, Clare; Mitchell, Sheryl; James, Katherine; Ng, Wan-Fai; Griffiths, Bridget; Hindmarsh, Victoria; Price, Elizabeth; Pease, Colin T.; Emery, Paul; Lanyon, Peter; Jones, Adrian; Bombardieri, Michele; Sutcliffe, Nurhan; Pitzalis, Costantino; Hunter, John; Gupta, Monica; McLaren, John; Cooper, Annie; Regan, Marian; Giles, Ian; Isenberg, David; Saravanan, Vadivelu; Coady, David; Dasgupta, Bhaskar; McHugh, Neil; Young-Min, Steven; Moots, Robert; Gendi, Nagui; Akil, Mohammed; Barone, Francesca; Fisher, Ben; Rauz, Saaeha; Richards, Andrea; Bowman, Simon J.

2016-01-01

Abstract Objective: To identify numbers of participants in the UK Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome Registry (UKPSSR) who would fulfil eligibility criteria for previous/current or potential clinical trials in primary SS (pSS) in order to optimize recruitment. Methods: We did a retrospective analysis of UKPSSR cohort data of 688 participants who had pSS with evaluable data. Results: In relation to previous/current trials, 75.2% fulfilled eligibility for the Belimumab in Subjects with Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome study (Belimumab), 41.4% fulfilled eligibility for the Trial of Remicade in primary Sjögren’s syndrome study (Infliximab), 35.4% for the Efficacy of Tocilizumab in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome study (Tocilizumab), 46.3% for the Tolerance and Efficacy of Rituximab in Sjögren’s Disease study (Rituximab), 26.9% for the Trial of anti-B-cell therapy in pSS study (Rituximab) and 26.6% for the Efficacy and Safety of Abatacept in Patients With Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome study (Abatacept). If recent measures of outcome, such as the EULAR Sjögren’s Syndrome Patient Reported Index (ESSPRI) score ⩾5 (measure of patient symptoms) and the EULAR Sjögren’s Syndrome Disease Activity Index (ESSDAI) score ⩾5 (measure of systemic disease activity) are incorporated into a study design, with requirements for an unstimulated salivary flow >0 and anti-Ro positivity, then the pool of eligible participants is reduced to 14.3%. Conclusion: The UKPSSR identified a number of options for trial design, including selection on ESSDAI ⩾5, ESSPRI ⩾5 and serological and other parameters. PMID:26510429

Examining the practice of generalist expertise: a qualitative study identifying constraints and solutions

PubMed Central

Reeve, Joanne; Dowrick, Christopher F; Freeman, George K; Gunn, Jane; Mair, Frances; May, Carl; Mercer, Stewart; Palmer, Victoria; Howe, Amanda; Irving, Greg; Shiner, Alice; Watson, Jessica

2013-01-01

Objectives Provision of person-centred generalist care is a core component of quality primary care systems. The World Health Organisation believes that a lack of generalist primary care is contributing to inefficiency, ineffectiveness and inequity in healthcare. In UK primary care, General Practitioners (GPs) are the largest group of practising generalists. Yet GPs fulfil multiple roles and the pressures of delivering these roles along with wider contextual changes create real challenges to generalist practice. Our study aimed to explore GP perceptions of enablers and constraints for expert generalist care, in order to identify what is needed to ensure health systems are designed to support the generalist role. Design Qualitative study in General Practice. Setting UK primary care. Main outcome measures A qualitative study – interviews, surveys and focus groups with GPs and GP trainees. Data collection and analysis was informed by Normalisation Process Theory. Design and setting Qualitative study in General Practice. We conducted interviews, surveys and focus groups with GPs and GP trainees based mainly, but not exclusively, in the UK. Data collection and analysis were informed by Normalization Process Theory. Participants UK based GPs (interview and surveys); European GP trainees (focus groups). Results Our findings highlight key gaps in current training and service design which may limit development and implementation of expert generalist practice (EGP). These include the lack of a consistent and universal understanding of the distinct expertise of EGP, competing priorities inhibiting the delivery of EGP, lack of the consistent development of skills in interpretive practice and a lack of resources for monitoring EGP. Conclusions We describe four areas for change: Translating EGP, Priority setting for EGP, Trusting EGP and Identifying the impact of EGP. We outline proposals for work needed in each area to help enhance the expert generalist role. PMID:24475347

Planned flight test of a mercury ion auxiliary propulsion system. 1: Objectives, systems descriptions, and mission operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Power, J. C.

1978-01-01

A planned flight test of an 8 cm diameter, electron-bombardment mercury ion thruster system is described. The primary objective of the test is to flight qualify the 5 mN (1 mlb.) thruster system for auxiliary propulsion applications. A seven year north-south stationkeeping mission was selected as the basis for the flight test operating profile. The flight test, which will employ two thruster systems, will also generate thruster system space performance data, measure thruster-spacecraft interactions, and demonstrate thruster operation in a number of operating modes. The flight test is designated as SAMSO-601 and will be flown aboard the shuttle-launched Air Force space test program P80-1 satellite in 1981. The spacecraft will be 3- axis stabilized in its final 740 km circular orbit, which will have an inclination of approximately greater than 73 degrees. The spacecraft design lifetime is three years.

The ODD protocol: A review and first update

USGS Publications Warehouse

Grimm, Volker; Berger, Uta; DeAngelis, Donald L.; Polhill, J. Gary; Giske, Jarl; Railsback, Steve F.

2010-01-01

The 'ODD' (Overview, Design concepts, and Details) protocol was published in 2006 to standardize the published descriptions of individual-based and agent-based models (ABMs). The primary objectives of ODD are to make model descriptions more understandable and complete, thereby making ABMs less subject to criticism for being irreproducible. We have systematically evaluated existing uses of the ODD protocol and identified, as expected, parts of ODD needing improvement and clarification. Accordingly, we revise the definition of ODD to clarify aspects of the original version and thereby facilitate future standardization of ABM descriptions. We discuss frequently raised critiques in ODD but also two emerging, and unanticipated, benefits: ODD improves the rigorous formulation of models and helps make the theoretical foundations of large models more visible. Although the protocol was designed for ABMs, it can help with documenting any large, complex model, alleviating some general objections against such models.

X ray microscope assembly and alignment support and advanced x ray microscope design and analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shealy, David L.

1991-01-01

Considerable efforts have been devoted recently to the design, analysis, fabrication, and testing of spherical Schwarzschild microscopes for soft x ray application in microscopy and projection lithography. The spherical Schwarzschild microscope consists of two concentric spherical mirrors configured such that the third order spherical aberration and coma are zero. Since multilayers are used on the mirror substrates for x ray applications, it is desirable to have only two reflecting surfaces in a microscope. In order to reduce microscope aberrations and increase the field of view, generalized mirror surface profiles have been considered in this investigation. Based on incoherent and sine wave modulation transfer function (MTF) calculations, the object plane resolution of a microscope has been analyzed as a function of the object height and numerical aperture (NA) of the primary for several spherical Schwarzschild, conic, and aspherical head reflecting two mirror microscope configurations.

Assessment of Alternative RF Linac Structures for APT

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

None

The APT program has been examining both normal and superconducting variants of the APT linac for the past two years. A decision on which of the two will be the selected technology will depend upon several considerations including the results of ongoing feasibility experiments, the performance and overall attractiveness of each of the design concepts, and an assessment of the system-level features of both alternatives. The primary objective of the Assessment of Alternative RF Linac Structures for APT study reported herein was to assess and compare, at the system-level, the performance, capital and life cycle costs, reliability/availability/maintainability (RAM) and manufacturingmore » schedules of APT RF linear accelerators based upon both superconducting and normal conducting technologies. A secondary objective was to perform trade studies to explore opportunities for system optimization, technology substitution and alternative growth pathways and to identify sensitivities to design uncertainties.« less

Multi-objective Optimization of Solar-driven Hollow-fiber Membrane Distillation Systems

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

Nenoff, Tina M.; Moore, Sarah E.; Mirchandani, Sera

Securing additional water sources remains a primary concern for arid regions in both the developed and developing world. Climate change is causing fluctuations in the frequency and duration of precipitation, which can be can be seen as prolonged droughts in some arid areas. Droughts decrease the reliability of surface water supplies, which forces communities to find alternate primary water sources. In many cases, ground water can supplement the use of surface supplies during periods of drought, reducing the need for above-ground storage without sacrificing reliability objectives. Unfortunately, accessible ground waters are often brackish, requiring desalination prior to use, and underdevelopedmore » infrastructure and inconsistent electrical grid access can create obstacles to groundwater desalination in developing regions. The objectives of the proposed project are to (i) mathematically simulate the operation of hollow fiber membrane distillation systems and (ii) optimize system design for off-grid treatment of brackish water. It is anticipated that methods developed here can be used to supply potable water at many off-grid locations in semi-arid regions including parts of the Navajo Reservation. This research is a collaborative project between Sandia and the University of Arizona.« less

Annular Focused Electron/Ion Beams for Combining High Spatial Resolution with High Probe Current.

PubMed

Khursheed, Anjam; Ang, Wei Kean

2016-10-01

This paper presents a proposal for reducing the final probe size of focused electron/ion beam columns that are operated in a high primary beam current mode where relatively large final apertures are used, typically required in applications such as electron beam lithography, focused ion beams, and electron beam spectroscopy. An annular aperture together with a lens corrector unit is used to replace the conventional final hole-aperture, creating an annular ring-shaped primary beam. The corrector unit is designed to eliminate the first- and second-order geometric aberrations of the objective lens, and for the same probe current, the final geometric aberration limited spot size is predicted to be around a factor of 50 times smaller than that of the corresponding conventional hole-aperture beam. Direct ray tracing simulation is used to illustrate how a three-stage core lens corrector can be used to eliminate the first- and second-order geometric aberrations of an electric Einzel objective lens.

High Temperature Transparent Furnace Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bates, Stephen C.

1997-01-01

This report describes the use of novel techniques for heat containment that could be used to build a high temperature transparent furnace. The primary objective of the work was to experimentally demonstrate transparent furnace operation at 1200 C. Secondary objectives were to understand furnace operation and furnace component specification to enable the design and construction of a low power prototype furnace for delivery to NASA in a follow-up project. The basic approach of the research was to couple high temperature component design with simple concept demonstration experiments that modify a commercially available transparent furnace rated at lower temperature. A detailed energy balance of the operating transparent furnace was performed, calculating heat losses through the furnace components as a result of conduction, radiation, and convection. The transparent furnace shells and furnace components were redesigned to permit furnace operation at at least 1200 C. Techniques were developed that are expected to lead to significantly improved heat containment compared with current transparent furnaces. The design of a thermal profile in a multizone high temperature transparent furnace design was also addressed. Experiments were performed to verify the energy balance analysis, to demonstrate some of the major furnace improvement techniques developed, and to demonstrate the overall feasibility of a high temperature transparent furnace. The important objective of the research was achieved: to demonstrate the feasibility of operating a transparent furnace at 1200 C.

A FRAMEWORK TO DESIGN AND OPTIMIZE CHEMICAL FLOODING PROCESSES

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

Mojdeh Delshad; Gary A. Pope; Kamy Sepehrnoori

2005-07-01

The goal of this proposed research is to provide an efficient and user friendly simulation framework for screening and optimizing chemical/microbial enhanced oil recovery processes. The framework will include (1) a user friendly interface to identify the variables that have the most impact on oil recovery using the concept of experimental design and response surface maps, (2) UTCHEM reservoir simulator to perform the numerical simulations, and (3) an economic model that automatically imports the simulation production data to evaluate the profitability of a particular design. Such a reservoir simulation framework is not currently available to the oil industry. The objectivesmore » of Task 1 are to develop three primary modules representing reservoir, chemical, and well data. The modules will be interfaced with an already available experimental design model. The objective of the Task 2 is to incorporate UTCHEM reservoir simulator and the modules with the strategic variables and developing the response surface maps to identify the significant variables from each module. The objective of the Task 3 is to develop the economic model designed specifically for the chemical processes targeted in this proposal and interface the economic model with UTCHEM production output. Task 4 is on the validation of the framework and performing simulations of oil reservoirs to screen, design and optimize the chemical processes.« less

A Framework to Design and Optimize Chemical Flooding Processes

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

Mojdeh Delshad; Gary A. Pope; Kamy Sepehrnoori

2006-08-31

The goal of this proposed research is to provide an efficient and user friendly simulation framework for screening and optimizing chemical/microbial enhanced oil recovery processes. The framework will include (1) a user friendly interface to identify the variables that have the most impact on oil recovery using the concept of experimental design and response surface maps, (2) UTCHEM reservoir simulator to perform the numerical simulations, and (3) an economic model that automatically imports the simulation production data to evaluate the profitability of a particular design. Such a reservoir simulation framework is not currently available to the oil industry. The objectivesmore » of Task 1 are to develop three primary modules representing reservoir, chemical, and well data. The modules will be interfaced with an already available experimental design model. The objective of the Task 2 is to incorporate UTCHEM reservoir simulator and the modules with the strategic variables and developing the response surface maps to identify the significant variables from each module. The objective of the Task 3 is to develop the economic model designed specifically for the chemical processes targeted in this proposal and interface the economic model with UTCHEM production output. Task 4 is on the validation of the framework and performing simulations of oil reservoirs to screen, design and optimize the chemical processes.« less

A FRAMEWORK TO DESIGN AND OPTIMIZE CHEMICAL FLOODING PROCESSES

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

Mojdeh Delshad; Gary A. Pope; Kamy Sepehrnoori

2004-11-01

The goal of this proposed research is to provide an efficient and user friendly simulation framework for screening and optimizing chemical/microbial enhanced oil recovery processes. The framework will include (1) a user friendly interface to identify the variables that have the most impact on oil recovery using the concept of experimental design and response surface maps, (2) UTCHEM reservoir simulator to perform the numerical simulations, and (3) an economic model that automatically imports the simulation production data to evaluate the profitability of a particular design. Such a reservoir simulation framework is not currently available to the oil industry. The objectivesmore » of Task 1 are to develop three primary modules representing reservoir, chemical, and well data. The modules will be interfaced with an already available experimental design model. The objective of the Task 2 is to incorporate UTCHEM reservoir simulator and the modules with the strategic variables and developing the response surface maps to identify the significant variables from each module. The objective of the Task 3 is to develop the economic model designed specifically for the chemical processes targeted in this proposal and interface the economic model with UTCHEM production output. Task 4 is on the validation of the framework and performing simulations of oil reservoirs to screen, design and optimize the chemical processes.« less

Investigation of a carbon fiber/epoxy prepreg curing behavior for thick composite materials production: An industrial case-study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giorgini, Loris; Mazzocchetti, Laura; Minak, Giangiacomo; Dolcini, Enrico

2012-07-01

A case-study is presented, in cooperation with RI-BA Composites srl, where the industrial production of a thick part for primary structural application is analysed. The final product is a bulk carbon fiber reinforced object characterized by great dimensions, with thickness ranging between 10mm and 35mm and obtained by Hand-Lay-Up of prepregs. The study shows that prepregs age along the time required for the process work up. Moreover, the isothermal curing investigation of the prepreg used in the production gives some useful hint for the design of a new thermal curing cycle, in order to avoid exotherm problems along the thickness of the object. The effect of the applied curing cycle on thermal properties of the object are reported.

General process improvements through pinch technology

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

Linnhoff, B.; Polley, G.T.; Sahdev, V.

1988-06-01

Over the last ten years pinch technology has emerged as somewhat of a ''maverick'' development in the process design and energy conservation scene. Running contrary to general trends by taking the computer out of the loop and putting the engineer back in control, it has been questioned by some and welcomed by others. Regardless of persuasion, however, critics and advocates alike have largely failed to notice that pinch technology is more than an energy conservation tool. This is probably because soon after the advent of pinch technology in the 1970s, the process design scene became dominated by the oil crisis.more » Energy savings became the primary task of process designers and, therefore, the primary focus of the technology. Application during this period typically demonstrated energy cost savings in the range of 20 to 50 percent and payback periods of one year or less. Only recently have the other benefits of the technology reemerged. While it is true that pinch technology is essentially a heat-flow-based technique it is also true that it can be used to address a very diverse range of objectives.« less

Connecting the Dots and Merging Meaning: Using Mixed Methods to Study Primary Care Delivery Transformation

PubMed Central

Scammon, Debra L; Tomoaia-Cotisel, Andrada; Day, Rachel L; Day, Julie; Kim, Jaewhan; Waitzman, Norman J; Farrell, Timothy W; Magill, Michael K

2013-01-01

Objective. To demonstrate the value of mixed methods in the study of practice transformation and illustrate procedures for connecting methods and for merging findings to enhance the meaning derived. Data Source/Study Setting. An integrated network of university-owned, primary care practices at the University of Utah (Community Clinics or CCs). CC has adopted Care by Design, its version of the Patient Centered Medical Home. Study Design. Convergent case study mixed methods design. Data Collection/Extraction Methods. Analysis of archival documents, internal operational reports, in-clinic observations, chart audits, surveys, semistructured interviews, focus groups, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services database, and the Utah All Payer Claims Database. Principal Findings. Each data source enriched our understanding of the change process and understanding of reasons that certain changes were more difficult than others both in general and for particular clinics. Mixed methods enabled generation and testing of hypotheses about change and led to a comprehensive understanding of practice change. Conclusions. Mixed methods are useful in studying practice transformation. Challenges exist but can be overcome with careful planning and persistence. PMID:24279836

Guidance, Navigation, and Control System Design in a Mass Reduction Exercise

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crain, Timothy; Begly, Michael; Jackson, Mark; Broome, Joel

2008-01-01

Early Orion GN&C system designs optimized for robustness, simplicity, and utilization of commercially available components. During the System Definition Review (SDR), all subsystems on Orion were asked to re-optimize with component mass and steady state power as primary design metrics. The objective was to create a mass reserve in the Orion point of departure vehicle design prior to beginning the PDR analysis cycle. The Orion GN&C subsystem team transitioned from a philosophy of absolute 2 fault tolerance for crew safety and 1 fault tolerance for mission success to an approach of 1 fault tolerance for crew safety and risk based redundancy to meet probability allocations of loss of mission and loss of crew. This paper will discuss the analyses, rationale, and end results of this activity regarding Orion navigation sensor hardware, control effectors, and trajectory design.

The Shuttle Imaging Radar B (SIR-B) experiment report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cimino, Jo Bea; Holt, Benjamin; Richardson, Annie

1988-01-01

The primary objective of the SIR-B experiment was to acquire multiple-incidence-angle radar imagery of a variety of Earth's surfaces to better understand the effects of imaging geometry on radar backscatter. A complementary objective was to map extensive regions of particular interest. Under these broad objectives, many specific scientific experiments were defined by the 43 SIR-B Science Team members, including studies in the area of geology, vegetation, radar penetration, oceanography, image analysis, and calibration technique development. Approximately 20 percent of the planned digital data were collected, meeting 40 percent of the scientific objectives. This report is an overview of the SIR-B experiment and includes the science investigations, hardware design, mission scenario, mission operations, events of the actual missions, astronaut participation, data products (including auxiliary data), calibrations, and a summary of the actual coverage. Also included are several image samples.

A novel estimating method for steering efficiency of the driver with electromyography signals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yahui; Ji, Xuewu; Hayama, Ryouhei; Mizuno, Takahiro

2014-05-01

The existing research of steering efficiency mainly focuses on the mechanism efficiency of steering system, aiming at designing and optimizing the mechanism of steering system. In the development of assist steering system especially the evaluation of its comfort, the steering efficiency of driver physiological output usually are not considered, because this physiological output is difficult to measure or to estimate, and the objective evaluation of steering comfort therefore cannot be conducted with movement efficiency perspective. In order to take a further step to the objective evaluation of steering comfort, an estimating method for the steering efficiency of the driver was developed based on the research of the relationship between the steering force and muscle activity. First, the steering forces in the steering wheel plane and the electromyography (EMG) signals of the primary muscles were measured. These primary muscles are the muscles in shoulder and upper arm which mainly produced the steering torque, and their functions in steering maneuver were identified previously. Next, based on the multiple regressions of the steering force and EMG signals, both the effective steering force and the total force capacity of driver in steering maneuver were calculated. Finally, the steering efficiency of driver was estimated by means of the estimated effective force and the total force capacity, which represented the information of driver physiological output of the primary muscles. This research develops a novel estimating method for driver steering efficiency of driver physiological output, including the estimation of both steering force and the force capacity of primary muscles with EMG signals, and will benefit to evaluate the steering comfort with an objective perspective.

High Current ESD Test of Advanced Triple Junction Solar Array Coupon

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wright, Kenneth H., Jr.; Schneider, Todd A.; Vaughn, Jason A.; Hoang, Bao; Wong, Frankie

2014-01-01

Testing was conducted on an Advanced Triple Junction (ATJ) coupon that was part of a risk reduction effort in the development of a high-powered solar array design by Space Systems Loral, LLC (SSL). The ATJ coupon was a small, 4-cell, two-string configuration of flight-type design that has served as the basic test coupon design used in previous SSL environmental aging campaigns. The objective of the present test was to evaluate the performance of the coupon after being subjected to induced electrostatic discharge (ESD) testing at two string voltages (100 V, 150 V) and four string currents (1.65 A, 2.0 A, 2.475 A, and 3.3 A). An ESD test circuit, unique to SSL solar array design, was built that simulates the effect of missing cells and strings in a full solar panel with special primary arc flashover circuitry. A total of 73 primary arcs were obtained that included 7 temporary sustained arcs (TSA) events. The durations of the TSAs ranged from 50 micro-seconds to 2.75 milli-seconds. All TSAs occurred at a string voltage of 150 V. Post-ESD functional testing showed that no degradation occurred due to the TSA events. These test results point to a robust design for application to a high-current, high-power mission.

LOLA: Lunar Optical Long-baseline Array. 1992-1993 space design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bronte, Daniel; Chaney, Joanne; Curran, Christine; Ferguson, Keith; Flint, Eric; Giunta, Tony; Knill, Duane; Levesque, Daniel; Lyon, Donald; Murphy, Sean

1993-01-01

In the fall of 1992, the design and analysis of a lunar-based optical interferometer telescope array was initiated by a group of students in the Department of Aerospace Engineering at Virginia Tech. This project was undertaken at the suggestion of the Space Exploration Initiative Office at the NASA Langley Research Center. The original array design requirements, listed below, centered on the primary objective of resolving earth-type planets about stars out to a distance of ten parsecs: spectrum coverage spanning wavelengths from five nm to five mm, with a primary operating mode in the visible spectrum; a total collecting area providing a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of no less than 10.0 for a median wavelength of 500 nm; the individual array elements must be identical and have a maximum optical diameter of 2.0 m; and lunar site selection is limited to ten degrees north and south of the lunar equator on the lunar far side while not closer than 15 degrees to either near-side limb. Following construction by astronaut crews, array operation will be conducted from earth and astronomical observations will not be conducted during the lunar day. The entire system is designed for minimum achievable mass. The majority of the original design requirements for the telescope array were met.

Space telescope low scattered light camera - A model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Breckinridge, J. B.; Kuper, T. G.; Shack, R. V.

1982-01-01

A design approach for a camera to be used with the space telescope is given. Camera optics relay the system pupil onto an annular Gaussian ring apodizing mask to control scattered light. One and two dimensional models of ripple on the primary mirror were calculated. Scattered light calculations using ripple amplitudes between wavelength/20 wavelength/200 with spatial correlations of the ripple across the primary mirror between 0.2 and 2.0 centimeters indicate that the detection of an object a billion times fainter than a bright source in the field is possible. Detection of a Jovian type planet in orbit about alpha Centauri with a camera on the space telescope may be possible.

Causes of chronic orthostatic hypotension

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robertson, D.; Robertson, R. M.

1994-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To determine the frequency of various causes of orthostatic hypotension. DESIGN: Survey. SETTING: Tertiary referral center. PATIENTS: One hundred patients with moderate to severe orthostatic hypotension. RESULTS: Twenty-seven percent of the patients had primary autonomic failure, 35% had secondary autonomic failure, and 38% had hypotension without evidence of generalized autonomic degeneration. CONCLUSIONS: In a tertiary referral center, only a minority of patients with severe orthostatic hypotension will have Shy-Drager syndrome or Bradbury-Eggleston syndrome as their primary disease. Occasional patients who initially appear to have Bradbury-Eggleston syndrome ultimately prove to have Shy-Drager syndrome or paraneoplastic autonomic failure. Antidepressant drugs, even in low doses, remain a major overlooked cause of orthostatic hypotension.

Laser Atmospheric Wind Sounder (LAWS) phase 1. Volume 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1990-01-01

This report summarizes and documents the results of the 12-month phase 1 work effort. The objective of phase 1 was to establish the conceptional definition of the laser atmospheric wind sounder (LAWS) sensor system, including accommodations analyses to ensure compatibility with the Space Station Freedom (SSF) and the Earth Observing System (EOS) Polar Orbiting Platform (POP). Various concepts were investigated with trade studies performed to select the configuration to be carried forward to the phase 2 Preliminary Design Definition. A summary of the LAWS system and subsystem trade studies that were performed leading to the baseline design configuration is presented in the appendix. The overall objective of the LAWS Project is to define, design, and implement an operational space based facility, LAWS, for accurate measurement of Earth wind profiles. Phase 1 addressed three major areas: (1) requirements definition; (2) instrument concepts and configurations; and (3) performance analysis. For the LAWS instrument concepts and configurations, the issues which press the technological state of the art are reliable detector lifetime and laser performance and lifetime. Lag angle compensation, pointing accuracy, satellite navigation, and telescope design are significant technical issues, but they are considered to be currently state of the art. The primary issues for performance analysis concern interaction with the atmosphere in terms of backscatter and attenuation, wind variance, and cloud blockage. The phase 1 tasks were formulated to address these significant technical issues and demonstrate the technical feasibility of the LAWS concept. Primary emphasis was placed on analysis/trade and identification of candidate concepts. Promising configurations were evaluated for performance, sensitivities, risks, and budgetary costs. Lockheed's baseline LAWS configuration is presented.

Multi-Objective Design Of Optimal Greenhouse Gas Observation Networks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lucas, D. D.; Bergmann, D. J.; Cameron-Smith, P. J.; Gard, E.; Guilderson, T. P.; Rotman, D.; Stolaroff, J. K.

2010-12-01

One of the primary scientific functions of a Greenhouse Gas Information System (GHGIS) is to infer GHG source emission rates and their uncertainties by combining measurements from an observational network with atmospheric transport modeling. Certain features of the observational networks that serve as inputs to a GHGIS --for example, sampling location and frequency-- can greatly impact the accuracy of the retrieved GHG emissions. Observation System Simulation Experiments (OSSEs) provide a framework to characterize emission uncertainties associated with a given network configuration. By minimizing these uncertainties, OSSEs can be used to determine optimal sampling strategies. Designing a real-world GHGIS observing network, however, will involve multiple, conflicting objectives; there will be trade-offs between sampling density, coverage and measurement costs. To address these issues, we have added multi-objective optimization capabilities to OSSEs. We demonstrate these capabilities by quantifying the trade-offs between retrieval error and measurement costs for a prototype GHGIS, and deriving GHG observing networks that are Pareto optimal. [LLNL-ABS-452333: This work performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Flowfield characterization and model development in detonation tubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Owens, Zachary Clark

A series of experiments and numerical simulations are performed to advance the understanding of flowfield phenomena and impulse generation in detonation tubes. Experiments employing laser-based velocimetry, high-speed schlieren imaging and pressure measurements are used to construct a dataset against which numerical models can be validated. The numerical modeling culminates in the development of a two-dimensional, multi-species, finite-rate-chemistry, parallel, Navier-Stokes solver. The resulting model is specifically designed to assess unsteady, compressible, reacting flowfields, and its utility for studying multidimensional detonation structure is demonstrated. A reduced, quasi-one-dimensional model with source terms accounting for wall losses is also developed for rapid parametric assessment. Using these experimental and numerical tools, two primary objectives are pursued. The first objective is to gain an understanding of how nozzles affect unsteady, detonation flowfields and how they can be designed to maximize impulse in a detonation based propulsion system called a pulse detonation engine. It is shown that unlike conventional, steady-flow propulsion systems where converging-diverging nozzles generate optimal performance, unsteady detonation tube performance during a single-cycle is maximized using purely diverging nozzles. The second objective is to identify the primary underlying mechanisms that cause velocity and pressure measurements to deviate from idealized theory. An investigation of the influence of non-ideal losses including wall heat transfer, friction and condensation leads to the development of improved models that reconcile long-standing discrepancies between predicted and measured detonation tube performance. It is demonstrated for the first time that wall condensation of water vapor in the combustion products can cause significant deviations from ideal theory.

Thermal Control Subsystem Design for the Avionics of a Space Station Payload

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Moran, Matthew E.

1996-01-01

A case study of the thermal control subsystem development for a space based payload is presented from the concept stage through preliminary design. This payload, the Space Acceleration Measurement System 2 (SAMS-2), will measure the acceleration environment at select locations within the International Space Station. Its thermal control subsystem must maintain component temperatures within an acceptable range over a 10 year life span, while restricting accessible surfaces to touch temperature limits and insuring fail safe conditions in the event of loss of cooling. In addition to these primary design objectives, system level requirements and constraints are imposed on the payload, many of which are driven by multidisciplinary issues. Blending these issues into the overall system design required concurrent design sessions with the project team, iterative conceptual design layouts, thermal analysis and modeling, and hardware testing. Multiple tradeoff studies were also performed to investigate the many options which surfaced during the development cycle.

Pointing control for the International Comet Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leblanc, D. R.; Schumacher, L. L.

1980-01-01

The design of the pointing control system for the proposed International Comet Mission, intended to fly by Comet Halley and rendezvous with Comet Tempel-2 is presented. Following a review of mission objectives and the spacecraft configuration, design constraints on the pointing control system controlling the two-axis gimballed scan platform supporting the science instruments are discussed in relation to the scientific requirements of the mission. The primary design options considered for the pointing control system design for the baseline spacecraft are summarized, and the design selected, which employs a target-referenced, inertially stabilized control system, is described in detail. The four basic modes of operation of the pointing control subsystem (target acquisition, inertial hold, target track and slew) are discussed as they relate to operations at Halley and Tempel-2. It is pointed that the pointing control system design represents a significant advance in the state of the art of pointing controls for planetary missions.

The LUVOIR Ultraviolet Multi-Object Spectrograph (LUMOS): instrument definition and design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

France, Kevin; Fleming, Brian; West, Garrett; McCandliss, Stephan R.; Bolcar, Matthew R.; Harris, Walter; Moustakas, Leonidas; O'Meara, John M.; Pascucci, Ilaria; Rigby, Jane; Schiminovich, David; Tumlinson, Jason

2017-08-01

The Large Ultraviolet/Optical/Infrared Surveyor (LUVOIR) is one of four large mission concepts currently undergoing community study for consideration by the 2020 Astronomy and Astrophysics Decadal Survey. LUVOIR is being designed to pursue an ambitious program of exoplanetary discovery and characterization, cosmic origins astrophysics, and planetary science. The LUVOIR study team is investigating two large telescope apertures (9- and 15-meter primary mirror diameters) and a host of science instruments to carry out the primary mission goals. Many of the exoplanet, cosmic origins, and planetary science goals of LUVOIR require high-throughput, imaging spectroscopy at ultraviolet (100 - 400 nm) wavelengths. The LUVOIR Ultraviolet Multi-Object Spectrograph, LUMOS, is being designed to support all of the UV science requirements of LUVOIR, from exoplanet host star characterization to tomography of circumgalactic halos to water plumes on outer solar system satellites. LUMOS offers point source and multi-object spectroscopy across the UV bandpass, with multiple resolution modes to support different science goals. The instrument will provide low (R = 8,000 - 18,000) and medium (R = 30,000 - 65,000) resolution modes across the far-ultraviolet (FUV: 100 - 200 nm) and nearultraviolet (NUV: 200 - 400 nm) windows, and a very low resolution mode (R = 500) for spectroscopic investigations of extremely faint objects in the FUV. Imaging spectroscopy will be accomplished over a 3 × 1.6 arcminute field-of-view by employing holographically-ruled diffraction gratings to control optical aberrations, microshutter arrays (MSA) built on the heritage of the Near Infrared Spectrograph (NIRSpec) on the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), advanced optical coatings for high-throughput in the FUV, and next generation large-format photon-counting detectors. The spectroscopic capabilities of LUMOS are augmented by an FUV imaging channel (100 - 200nm, 13 milliarcsecond angular resolution, 2 × 2 arcminute field-of-view) that will employ a complement of narrow- and medium-band filters. The instrument definition, design, and development are being carried out by an instrument study team led by the University of Colorado, Goddard Space Flight Center, and the LUVOIR Science and Technology Definition Team. LUMOS has recently completed a preliminary design in Goddard's Instrument Design Laboratory and is being incorporated into the working LUVOIR mission concept. In this proceeding, we describe the instrument requirements for LUMOS, the instrument design, and technology development recommendations to support the hardware required for LUMOS. We present an overview of LUMOS' observing modes and estimated performance curves for effective area, spectral resolution, and imaging performance. Example "LUMOS 100-hour Highlights" observing programs are presented to demonstrate the potential power of LUVOIR's ultraviolet spectroscopic capabilities.

Air-Breathing Launch Vehicle Technology Being Developed

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trefny, Charles J.

2003-01-01

Of the technical factors that would contribute to lowering the cost of space access, reusability has high potential. The primary objective of the GTX program is to determine whether or not air-breathing propulsion can enable reusable single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) operations. The approach is based on maturation of a reference vehicle design with focus on the integration and flight-weight construction of its air-breathing rocket-based combined-cycle (RBCC) propulsion system.

Dynamic Positron Emission Tomography [PET] in Man Using Small Bismuth Germanate Crystals

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Derenzo, S. E.; Budinger, T. F.; Huesman, R. H.; Cahoon, J. L.

1982-04-01

Primary considerations for the design of positron emission tomographs for medical studies in humans are the need for high imaging sensitivity, whole organ coverage, good spatial resolution, high maximum data rates, adequate spatial sampling with minimum mechanical motion, shielding against out of plane activity, pulse height discrimination against scattered photons, and timing discrimination against accidental coincidences. We discuss the choice of detectors, sampling motion, shielding, and electronics to meet these objectives.

Cognitive Code-Division Channelization

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-04-01

22] G. N. Karystinos and D. A. Pados, “New bounds on the total squared correlation and optimum design of DS - CDMA binary signature sets,” IEEE Trans...Commun., vol. 51, pp. 48-51, Jan. 2003. [23] C. Ding, M. Golin, and T. Klve, “Meeting the Welch and Karystinos- Pados bounds on DS - CDMA binary...receiver pair coexisting with a primary code-division multiple-access ( CDMA ) system. Our objective is to find the optimum transmitting power and code

Astronomic Telescope Facility: Preliminary systems definition study report. Volume 2: Technical description

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sobeck, Charlie (Editor)

1987-01-01

The Astrometric Telescope Facility (AFT) is to be an earth-orbiting facility designed specifically to measure the change in relative position of stars. The primary science investigation for the facility will be the search for planets and planetary systems outside the solar system. In addition the facility will support astrophysics investigations dealing with the location or motions of stars. The science objective and facility capabilities for astrophysics investigations are discussed.

STS-42 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1992-01-01

The STS-42 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the vehicle subsystem operations during the forty-fifth flight of the Space Shuttle Program and the fourteenth flight of the Orbiter vehicle Discovery (OV-103). In addition to the Discovery vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of the following: an External Tank (ET) designated as ET-52 (LWT-45); three Space Shuttle main engines (SSME's), which were serial numbers 2026, 2022, and 2027 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB's) designated as BI-048. The lightweight redesigned Solid Rocket Motors (RSRM's) installed in each one of the SRB's were designated as 360L020A for the left SRM and 360Q020B for the right SRM. The primary objective of the STS-42 mission was to complete the objectives of the first International Microgravity Laboratory (IML-1). Secondary objectives were to perform all operations necessary to support the requirements of the following: Gelation of Sols: Applied Microgravity Research (GOSAMR); Student Experiment 81-09 (Convection in Zero Gravity); Student Experiment 83-02 (Capillary Rise of Liquid Through Granular Porous Media); the Investigation into Polymer Membrane Processing (IPMP); the Radiation Monitoring Equipment-3 (RME-3); and Get-Away Special (GAS) payloads carried on the GAS Beam Assembly.

STS-42 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fricke, Robert W.

1992-02-01

The STS-42 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report contains a summary of the vehicle subsystem operations during the forty-fifth flight of the Space Shuttle Program and the fourteenth flight of the Orbiter vehicle Discovery (OV-103). In addition to the Discovery vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of the following: an External Tank (ET) designated as ET-52 (LWT-45); three Space Shuttle main engines (SSME's), which were serial numbers 2026, 2022, and 2027 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two Solid Rocket Boosters (SRB's) designated as BI-048. The lightweight redesigned Solid Rocket Motors (RSRM's) installed in each one of the SRB's were designated as 360L020A for the left SRM and 360Q020B for the right SRM. The primary objective of the STS-42 mission was to complete the objectives of the first International Microgravity Laboratory (IML-1). Secondary objectives were to perform all operations necessary to support the requirements of the following: Gelation of Sols: Applied Microgravity Research (GOSAMR); Student Experiment 81-09 (Convection in Zero Gravity); Student Experiment 83-02 (Capillary Rise of Liquid Through Granular Porous Media); the Investigation into Polymer Membrane Processing (IPMP); the Radiation Monitoring Equipment-3 (RME-3); and Get-Away Special (GAS) payloads carried on the GAS Beam Assembly.

Design and pilot results of a single blind randomized controlled trial of systematic demand-led home visits by nurses to frail elderly persons in primary care [ISRCTN05358495].

PubMed

van Hout, Hein P J; Nijpels, Giel; van Marwijk, Harm W J; Jansen, Aaltje P D; Van't Veer, Petronella J; Tybout, Willemijn; Stalman, Wim A B

2005-09-08

The objective of this article is to describe the design of an evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of systematic home visits by nurses to frail elderly primary care patients. Pilot objectives were: 1. To determine the feasibility of postal multidimensional frailty screening instruments; 2. to identify the need for home visits to elderly. Main study: The main study concerns a randomized controlled in primary care practices (PCP) with 18 months follow-up and blinded PCPs. Frail persons aged 75 years or older and living at home but neither terminally ill nor demented from 33 PCPs were eligible. Trained community nurses (1) visit patients at home and assess the care needs with the Resident Assessment Instrument-Home Care, a multidimensional computerized geriatric assessment instrument, enabling direct identification of problem areas; (2) determine the care priorities together with the patient; (3) design and execute interventions according to protocols; (4) and visit patients at least five times during a year in order to execute and monitor the care-plan. Controls receive usual care. Outcome measures are Quality of life, and Quality Adjusted Life Years; time to nursing home admission; mortality; hospital admissions; health care utilization. Pilot 1: Three brief postal multidimensional screening measures to identify frail health among elderly persons were tested on percentage complete item response (selected after a literature search): 1) Vulnerable Elders Screen, 2) Strawbridge's frailty screen, and 3) COOP-WONCA charts. Pilot 2: Three nurses visited elderly frail patients as identified by PCPs in a health center of 5400 patients and used an assessment protocol to identify psychosocial and medical problems. The needs and experiences of all participants were gathered by semi-structured interviews. The design holds several unique elements such as early identification of frail persons combined with case-management by nurses. From two pilots we learned that of three potential postal frailty measures, the COOP-WONCA charts were completed best by elderly and that preventive home visits by nurses were positively evaluated to have potential for quality of care improvement.

Absorption of nickel, chromium, and iron by the root surface of primary molars covered with stainless steel crowns.

PubMed

Keinan, David; Mass, Eliyahu; Zilberman, Uri

2010-01-01

Objective. The purpose of this study was to analyze the absorption of metal ions released from stainless steel crowns by root surface of primary molars. Study Design. Laboratory research: The study included 34 primary molars, exfoliated or extracted during routine dental treatment. 17 molars were covered with stainless-steel crowns for more than two years and compared to 17 intact primary molars. Chemical content of the mesial or distal root surface, 1 mm apically to the crown or the cemento-enamel junction (CEJ), was analyzed. An energy dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) was used for chemical analysis. Results. Higher amounts of nickel, chromium, and iron (5-6 times) were found in the cementum of molars covered with stainless-steel crowns compared to intact molars. The differences between groups were highly significant (P < .001). Significance. Stainless-steel crowns release nickel, chromium, and iron in oral environment, and the ions are absorbed by the primary molars roots. The additional burden of allergenic metals should be reduced if possible.

[Design of a supervision model for administration of the Child Development Evaluation Test at primary care facilities in Mexico].

PubMed

Villasís-Keever, Miguel Ángel; Rizzoli-Córdoba, Antonio; Delgado-Ginebra, Ismael; Mares-Serratos, Blanca Berenice; Martell-Valdez, Liliana; Sánchez-Velázquez, Olivia; Reyes-Morales, Hortensia; O'Shea-Cuevas, Gabriel; Aceves-Villagrán, Daniel; Carrasco-Mendoza, Joaquín; Antillón-Ocampo, Fátima Adriana; Villagrán-Muñoz, Víctor Manuel; Halley-Castillo, Elizabeth; Baqueiro-Hernández, César Iván; Pizarro-Castellanos, Mariel; Martain-Pérez, Itzamara Jacqueline; Palma-Tavera, Josuha Alexander; Vargas-López, Guillermo; Muñoz-Hernández, Onofre

The Child Development Evaluation (CDE) test designed and validated in Mexico has been used as a screening tool for developmental problems in primary care facilities across Mexico. Heterogeneous results were found among those states where these were applied, despite using the same standardized training model for application. The objective was to evaluate a supervision model for quality of application of the CDE test at primary care facilities. A study was carried out in primary care facilities from three Mexican states to evaluate concordance of the results between supervisor and primary care personnel who administered the test using two different methods: direct observation (shadow study) or reapplication of the CDE test (consistency study). There were 380 shadow studies applied to 51 psychologists. General concordance of the shadow study was 86.1% according to the supervisor: green 94.5%, yellow 73.2% and red 80.0%. There were 302 re-test evaluations with a concordance of 88.1% (n=266): green 96.8%, yellow 71.7% and red 81.8%. There were no differences between CDE test subgroups by age. Both shadow and re-test study were adequate for the evaluation of the quality of the administration of the CDE Test and may be useful as a model of supervision in primary care facilities. The decision of which test to use relies on the availability of supervisors. Copyright © 2015 Hospital Infantil de México Federico Gómez. Publicado por Masson Doyma México S.A. All rights reserved.

Tobacco use disorder treatment in primary care

PubMed Central

Kunyk, Diane; Els, Charl; Papadakis, Sophia; Selby, Peter

2014-01-01

Abstract Objective To test a team-based, site-specific, multicomponent clinical system pathway designed for enhancing tobacco use disorder treatment by primary care physicians. Design A prospective cohort study. Setting Sixty primary care sites in Alberta. Participants A convenience sample of 198 primary care physicians from the population of 2857. Main outcome measures Data collection occurred between September 2010 and February 2012 on 3 distinct measures. Twenty-four weeks after the intervention, audits of the primary care practices assessed the adoption and sustainability of 10 tobacco clinical system pathway components, a survey measured changes in physicians’ treatment intentions, and patient chart reviews examined changes in physicians’ consistency with the treatment algorithm. Results The completion rate by physicians was 89.4%. An intention-to-treat approach was undertaken for statistical analysis. Intervention uptake was demonstrated by positive changes at 4 weeks in how many of the 10 clinical system measures were performed (mean [SD] = 4.22 [1.60] vs 8.57 [1.46]; P < .001). Physicians demonstrated significant favourable changes in 9 of the 12 measures of treatment intention (P < .05). The 18 282 chart reviews documented significant increases in 6 of the 8 algorithm components. Conclusion Our findings suggest that the provision of a tobacco clinical system pathway that incorporates other members of the health care team and builds on existing office infrastructures will support positive and sustainable changes in tobacco use disorder treatment by physicians in primary care. This study reaffirms the substantive and important role of supporting how treatment is delivered in physicians’ practices. PMID:25022640

The Impact of Sleep-Related Attentional Bias on Polysomnographically Measured Sleep in Primary Insomnia

PubMed Central

Spiegelhalder, Kai; Kyle, Simon D.; Feige, Bernd; Prem, Martin; Nissen, Christoph; Espie, Colin A.; Riemann, Dieter

2010-01-01

Study Objectives: Although sleep-related attentional bias has been shown to be evident in primary insomnia, the association with objectively measured sleep has not been investigated. In the present study, we used polysomnography (PSG) to fill this void. Design: Patients with primary insomnia and healthy controls were studied using a visual dot probe task (VDP) and an emotional Stroop task (EST). Additionally, polysomnography was carried out in a sub-sample (n = 22) of patients in the subsequent night. Setting: Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy of the University of Freiburg Medical Center. Participants: Thirty patients with primary insomnia and 30 matched healthy controls. Interventions: N/A Measurements and Results: Patients with primary insomnia demonstrated a significant sleep-related attentional bias compared to controls in the EST but no significant group effects were found for the VDP. VDP attentional bias scores were positively correlated with measures of sleep pressure, including total sleep time, sleep efficiency, and the amount of slow wave sleep. EST attentional bias scores were not correlated with subsequent PSG parameters, and we did not observe a correlation between attentional bias scores on the two tasks. Conclusions: The unexpected relationship between increased attentional bias, in the VDP task, and improved markers of sleep duration and continuity, may be indicative of a homeostatic craving for sleep in those with high attentional bias. This awaits further testing in multiple night studies, to shed light on the mechanisms and implications of sleep-related attentional bias. Citation: Spiegelhalder K; Kyle SD; Feige B; Prem M; Nissen C; Espie CA; Riemann D. The impact of sleep-related attentional bias on polysomnographically measured sleep in primary insomnia. SLEEP 2010;33(1):107-112. PMID:20120627

Agile: From Software to Mission System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trimble, Jay; Shirley, Mark H.; Hobart, Sarah Groves

2016-01-01

The Resource Prospector (RP) is an in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) technology demonstration mission, designed to search for volatiles at the Lunar South Pole. This is NASA's first near real time tele-operated rover on the Moon. The primary objective is to search for volatiles at one of the Lunar Poles. The combination of short mission duration, a solar powered rover, and the requirement to explore shadowed regions makes for an operationally challenging mission. To maximize efficiency and flexibility in Mission System design and thus to improve the performance and reliability of the resulting Mission System, we are tailoring Agile principles that we have used effectively in ground data system software development and applying those principles to the design of elements of the mission operations system.

Next-generation avionics packaging and cooling 'test results from a prototype system'

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seals, J. D.

The author reports on the design, material characteristics, and test results obtained under the US Air Force's advanced aircraft avionics packaging technologies (AAAPT) program, whose charter is to investigate new designs and technologies for reliable packaging, interconnection, and thermal management. Under this program, AT&T Bell Laboratories has completed the preliminary testing of and is evaluating a number of promising materials and technologies, including conformal encapsulation, liquid flow-through cooling, and a cyanate ester backplane. A fifty-two module system incorporating these and and other technologies has undergone preliminary cooling efficiency, shock, sine and random vibration, and maintenance testing. One of the primary objectives was to evaluate the interaction compatibility of new materials and designs with other components in the system.

School-Based Educational Intervention to Improve Children's Oral Health-Related Knowledge.

PubMed

Blake, Holly; Dawett, Bhupinder; Leighton, Paul; Rose-Brady, Laura; Deery, Chris

2015-07-01

To evaluate a brief oral health promotion intervention delivered in schools by a primary care dental practice, aimed at changing oral health care knowledge and oral health-related behaviors in children. Cohort study with pretest-posttest design. Three primary schools. One hundred and fifty children (aged 9-12 years). Children received a 60-minute theory-driven classroom-based interactive educational session delivered by a dental care professional and received take-home literature on oral health. All children completed a questionnaire on oral health-related knowledge and self-reported oral health-related behaviors before, immediately after, and 6 weeks following the intervention. Children's dental knowledge significantly improved following the intervention, with improvement evident at immediate follow-up and maintained 6 weeks later. Significantly more children reported using dental floss 6 weeks after the intervention compared with baseline. No significant differences were detected in toothbrushing or dietary behaviors. School-based preventative oral health education delivered by primary care dental practices can generate short-term improvements in children's knowledge of oral health and some aspects of oral hygiene behavior. Future research should engage parents/carers and include objective clinical and behavioral outcomes in controlled study designs. © 2014 Society for Public Health Education.

Thermal Analysis of a Metallic Wing Glove for a Mach-8 Boundary-Layer Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gong, Leslie; Richards, W. Lance

1998-01-01

A metallic 'glove' structure has been built and attached to the wing of the Pegasus(trademark) space booster. An experiment on the upper surface of the glove has been designed to help validate boundary-layer stability codes in a free-flight environment. Three-dimensional thermal analyses have been performed to ensure that the glove structure design would be within allowable temperature limits in the experiment test section of the upper skin of the glove. Temperature results obtained from the design-case analysis show a peak temperature at the leading edge of 490 F. For the upper surface of the glove, approximately 3 in. back from the leading edge, temperature calculations indicate transition occurs at approximately 45 sec into the flight profile. A worst-case heating analysis has also been performed to ensure that the glove structure would not have any detrimental effects on the primary objective of the Pegasus a launch. A peak temperature of 805 F has been calculated on the leading edge of the glove structure. The temperatures predicted from the design case are well within the temperature limits of the glove structure, and the worst-case heating analysis temperature results are acceptable for the mission objectives.

Using the Knowledge, Process, Practice (KPP) model for driving the design and development of online postgraduate medical education.

PubMed

Shaw, Tim; Barnet, Stewart; Mcgregor, Deborah; Avery, Jennifer

2015-01-01

Online learning is a primary delivery method for continuing health education programs. It is critical that programs have curricula objectives linked to educational models that support learning. Using a proven educational modelling process ensures that curricula objectives are met and a solid basis for learning and assessment is achieved. To develop an educational design model that produces an educationally sound program development plan for use by anyone involved in online course development. We have described the development of a generic educational model designed for continuing health education programs. The Knowledge, Process, Practice (KPP) model is founded on recognised educational theory and online education practice. This paper presents a step-by-step guide on using this model for program development that encases reliable learning and evaluation. The model supports a three-step approach, KPP, based on learning outcomes and supporting appropriate assessment activities. It provides a program structure for online or blended learning that is explicit, educationally defensible, and supports multiple assessment points for health professionals. The KPP model is based on best practice educational design using a structure that can be adapted for a variety of online or flexibly delivered postgraduate medical education programs.

STS-68 Space Shuttle mission report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W., Jr.

1995-01-01

The STS-68 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report summarizes the Payload activities as well as the Orbiter, External Tank (ET), Solid Rocket Booster (SRB), Redesigned Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM), and the Space Shuttle main engine (SSME) systems performance during the sixty-fifth flight of the Space Shuttle Program and the seventh flight of the Orbiter vehicle Endeavour (OV-105). In addition to the Orbiter, the flight vehicle consisted of an ET that was designated ET-65; three SSMEs that were designated as serial numbers 2028, 2033, and 2026 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two SRBs that were designated BI-067. The RSRMs that were installed in each SRB were designated as 360W040A for the left SRB and 360W040B for the right SRB. The primary objective of this flight was to successfully perform the operations of the Space Radar Laboratory-2 (SRL-2). The secondary objectives of the flight were to perform the operations of the Chromosome and Plant Cell Division in Space (CHROMEX), the Commercial Protein Crystal Growth (CPCG), the Biological Research in Canisters (BRIC), the Cosmic Radiation Effects and Activation Monitor (CREAM), the Military Application of Ship Tracks (MAST), and five Get-Away Special (GAS) payloads.

Test model designs for advanced refractory ceramic materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tran, Huy Kim

1993-01-01

The next generation of space vehicles will be subjected to severe aerothermal loads and will require an improved thermal protection system (TPS) and other advanced vehicle components. In order to ensure the satisfactory performance system (TPS) and other advanced vehicle materials and components, testing is to be performed in environments similar to space flight. The design and fabrication of the test models should be fairly simple but still accomplish test objectives. In the Advanced Refractory Ceramic Materials test series, the models and model holders will need to withstand the required heat fluxes of 340 to 817 W/sq cm or surface temperatures in the range of 2700 K to 3000 K. The model holders should provide one dimensional (1-D) heat transfer to the samples and the appropriate flow field without compromising the primary test objectives. The optical properties such as the effective emissivity, catalytic efficiency coefficients, thermal properties, and mass loss measurements are also taken into consideration in the design process. Therefore, it is the intent of this paper to demonstrate the design schemes for different models and model holders that would accommodate these test requirements and ensure the safe operation in a typical arc jet facility.

Design and analysis of radiometric instruments using high-level numerical models and genetic algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sorensen, Ira Joseph

A primary objective of the effort reported here is to develop a radiometric instrument modeling environment to provide complete end-to-end numerical models of radiometric instruments, integrating the optical, electro-thermal, and electronic systems. The modeling environment consists of a Monte Carlo ray-trace (MCRT) model of the optical system coupled to a transient, three-dimensional finite-difference electrothermal model of the detector assembly with an analytic model of the signal-conditioning circuitry. The environment provides a complete simulation of the dynamic optical and electrothermal behavior of the instrument. The modeling environment is used to create an end-to-end model of the CERES scanning radiometer, and its performance is compared to the performance of an operational CERES total channel as a benchmark. A further objective of this effort is to formulate an efficient design environment for radiometric instruments. To this end, the modeling environment is then combined with evolutionary search algorithms known as genetic algorithms (GA's) to develop a methodology for optimal instrument design using high-level radiometric instrument models. GA's are applied to the design of the optical system and detector system separately and to both as an aggregate function with positive results.

Delivering Integrated Care to the Frail Elderly: The Impact on Professionals’ Objective Burden and Job Satisfaction

PubMed Central

Huijsman, Robbert; de Kuyper, Ruben Dennis Maurice; Fabbricotti, Isabelle Natalina

2016-01-01

Background: The impact of integrated working on professionals’ objective burden and job satisfaction was examined. An evidence-based intervention targeting frail elderly patients was implemented in the Walcheren region of the Netherlands in 2010. The intervention involved the primary care practice as a single entry point, and included proactive frailty screening, a comprehensive assessment of patient needs, case management, multidisciplinary teams, care plans and protocols, task delegation and task specialisation, a shared information system, a geriatric care network and integrated funding. Methods: A quasi-experimental design with a control group was used. Data regarding objective burden involved the professionals’ time investments over a 12-month period that were collected from patient medical records (n = 377) time registrations, transcripts of meetings and patient questionnaires. Data regarding job satisfaction were collected using questionnaires that were distributed to primary care and home-care professionals (n = 180) after the intervention’s implementation. Within- and between-groups comparisons and regression analyses were performed. Results: Non-patient related time was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group, whereas patient-related time did not differ. Job satisfaction remained unaffected by the intervention. Conclusion and Discussion: Integrated working is likely to increase objective burden as it requires professionals to perform additional activities that are largely unrelated to actual patient care. Implications for research and practice are discussed. [Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN05748494]. PMID:28413364

Developing nurse and physician questionnaires to assess primary work areas in intensive care units.

PubMed

Rashid, Mahbub; Boyle, Diane K; Crosser, Michael

2014-01-01

The objective of the study was to develop instruments for describing and assessing some aspects of design of the primary work areas of nurses and physicians in intensive care units (ICUs). Separate questionnaires for ICU physicians and nurses were developed. Items related to individual- and unit-level design features of the primary work areas of nurses and physicians were organized using constructs found in the literature. Items related to staff satisfaction and staff use of time in relation to primary work area design were also included. All items and constructs were reviewed by experts for content validity and were modified as needed before use. The final questionnaires were administered to a convenience sample of 4 ICUs in 2 large urban hospitals. A total of 55 nurses and 29 physicians completed the survey. The Cronbach α was used to measure internal consistency, and factor analysis was used to provide construct-related validity. Convergent and discriminant validity were assessed through examining bivariate correlations between relevant scales/items. Analysis of variance was used to identify whether the between-group member responses were significant among the 4 units. The Cronbach α values for all except 3 preliminary scales indicated acceptable reliability. Factor analysis indicated that some preliminary scales could be partitioned into subscales for finer descriptions of the primary work areas. Correlational analysis provided strong evidence of convergent and discriminant validity of all the scales and subscales. The significance level of F-statistics showed that the units were significantly different from each other, providing evidence of more between-unit variance than within-unit variance. Therefore, the questionnaires developed in the study offer a promising departure point for rigorous description and evaluation of the primary work areas in relation to staff satisfaction and use of time in ICUs at a time when the importance of such studies is growing.

Phase II cancer clinical trials for biomarker-guided treatments.

PubMed

Jung, Sin-Ho

2018-01-01

The design and analysis of cancer clinical trials with biomarker depend on various factors, such as the phase of trials, the type of biomarker, whether the used biomarker is validated or not, and the study objectives. In this article, we demonstrate the design and analysis of two Phase II cancer clinical trials, one with a predictive biomarker and the other with an imaging prognostic biomarker. Statistical testing methods and their sample size calculation methods are presented for each trial. We assume that the primary endpoint of these trials is a time to event variable, but this concept can be used for any type of endpoint.

Environmental stratification framework and water-quality monitoring design strategy for the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, Africa

USGS Publications Warehouse

Friedel, Michael J.

2008-01-01

Mauritania anticipates an increase in mining activities throughout the country and into the foreseeable future. Because mining-induced changes in the landscape are likely to affect their limited ground-water resources and sensitive aquatic ecosystems, a water-quality assessment program was designed for Mauritania that is based on a nationally consistent environmental stratification framework. The primary objectives of this program are to ensure that the environmental monitoring systems can quantify near real-time changes in surface-water chemistry at a local scale, and quantify intermediate- to long-term changes in groundwater and aquatic ecosystems over multiple scales.

ISS Flight 2A.2B (STS-106): Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (CGBA) Payload BioServe Space Technologies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stodieck, Louis; Klaus, David

2001-01-01

The two experiments housed in the Commercial Generic Bioprocessing Apparatus (CGBA) during STS-106 were designed to explore how biological processes are affected by microgravity. The first was a developmental study into the effects of microgravity on motor-neuronal growth in the fruit fly species Drosophila melanogaster and the second study was designed to characterize changes in kidney cell gene expression. The objective of the primary experiment, called NIH-B1, was to determine how gravity affects neuronal development of the D. melanogaster embryo and larvae in microgravity, specifically observing the neural connections to muscle fibers.

Where We Have Been and Where We Are Going: A Content Analysis of Articles Published in the Journal of Women's Health Physical Therapy From 2005 to 2015

PubMed Central

Coronado, Rogelio A.; Hill, Alexandra D.; Alappattu, Meryl J.

2018-01-01

Objective The objective of this study was to examine the type and content of Journal of Women’s Health Physical Therapy (JWHPT) publications over the last decade. Study Design Content and bibliometric analysis of published literature Background Component sections, such as the Section on Women’s Health (SoWH) of the American Physical Therapy Association provide content expertise to areas of specialty physical therapist practice, thereby supporting the dissemination of evidence for physical therapists to use. Closely aligned with the mission of the SoWH, JWHPT provides evidence reflecting this practice area. The purpose of our analysis was to examine publications within JWHPT to determine how closely JWHPT is meeting the mission and focus of section members. Methods and Measures We used established bibliographic methodology to code and review manuscripts published online between 2005 and 2015 in JWHPT using established domains (article type, participant type, research design, study purpose, and area of focus). Total publications and proportion of publications based on domain were described. Impact by citation and author was examined using bibliometric software. Results Eighteen percent of the items published in JWHPT were original research papers submitted for the first time. Of those papers, the primary study design was cross-sectional experimental research, most commonly studying interventions. The primary practice area reported was management of incontinence. Conclusions We suggest that a continued need to increase efforts for the submission and publication of a greater proportion of randomized controlled trials and metric articles. PMID:29375281

Design of a phase III multicenter trial to evaluate the efficacy of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine in children across diverse transmission settings in Africa

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals and the PATH Malaria Vaccine Initiative are working in partnership to develop a malaria vaccine to protect infants and children living in malaria endemic regions of sub-Saharan Africa, which can be delivered through the Expanded Programme on Immunization. The RTS,S/AS candidate vaccine has been evaluated in multiple phase I/II studies and shown to have a favourable safety profile and to be well-tolerated in both adults and children. This paper details the design of the phase III multicentre efficacy trial of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine candidate, which is pivotal for licensure and policy decision-making. Methods The phase III trial is a randomized, controlled, multicentre, participant- and observer-blind study on-going in 11 centres associated with different malaria transmission settings in seven countries in sub-Saharan Africa. A minimum of 6,000 children in each of two age categories (6-12 weeks, 5-17 months) have been enrolled. Children were randomized 1:1:1 to one of three study groups: (1) primary vaccination with RTS,S/AS01 and booster dose of RTS,S/AS01; (2) primary vaccination with RTS,S/AS01 and a control vaccine at time of booster; (3) primary vaccination with control vaccine and a control vaccine at time of booster. Primary vaccination comprises three doses at monthly intervals; the booster dose is administered at 18 months post-primary course. Subjects will be followed to study month 32. The co-primary objectives are the evaluation of efficacy over one year post-dose 3 against clinical malaria when primary immunization is delivered at: (1) 6-12 weeks of age, with co-administration of DTPwHepB/Hib antigens and OPV; (2) 5-17 months of age. Secondary objectives include evaluation of vaccine efficacy against severe malaria, anaemia, malaria hospitalization, fatal malaria, all-cause mortality and other serious illnesses including sepsis and pneumonia. Efficacy of the vaccine against clinical malaria under different transmission settings, the evolution of efficacy over time and the potential benefit of a booster will be evaluated. In addition, the effect of RTS,S/AS01 vaccination on growth, and the safety and immunogenicity in HIV-infected and malnourished children will be assessed. Safety of the primary course of immunization and the booster dose will be documented in both age categories. Conclusions This pivotal phase III study of the RTS,S/AS01 candidate malaria vaccine in African children was designed and implemented by the Clinical Trials Partnership Committee. The study will provide efficacy and safety data to fulfil regulatory requirements, together with data on a broad range of endpoints that will facilitate the evaluation of the public health impact of the vaccine and will aid policy and implementation decisions. Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00866619 PMID:21816029

An airport cargo inspection system based on X-ray and thermal neutron analysis (TNA).

PubMed

Ipe, Nisy E; Akery, A; Ryge, P; Brown, D; Liu, F; Thieu, J; James, B

2005-01-01

A cargo inspection system incorporating a high-resolution X-ray imaging system with a material-specific detection system based on Ancore Corporation's patented thermal neutron analysis (TNA) technology can detect bulk quantities of explosives and drugs concealed in trucks or cargo containers. The TNA process utilises a 252Cf neutron source surrounded by a moderator. The neutron interactions with the inspected object result in strong and unique gamma-ray signals from nitrogen, which is a key ingredient in modern high explosives, and from chlorinated drugs. The TNA computer analyses the gamma-ray signals and automatically determines the presence of explosives or drugs. The radiation source terms and shielding design of the facility are described. For the X-ray generator, the primary beam, leakage radiation, and scattered primary and leakage radiation were considered. For the TNA, the primary neutrons and tunnel scattered neutrons as well as the neutron-capture gamma rays were considered.

Flate-plate photovoltaic power systems handbook for Federal agencies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cochrane, E. H.; Lawson, A. C.; Savage, C. H.

1984-01-01

The primary purpose is to provide a tool for personnel in Federal agencies to evaluate the viability of potential photovoltaic applications. A second objective is to provide descriptions of various photovoltaic systems installed by different Federal agencies under the Federal Photovoltaic Utilization Program so that other agencies may consider similar applications. A third objective is to share lessons learned to enable more effective procurement, design, installation, and operation of future photovoltaic systems. The intent is not to provide a complete handbook, but rather to provide a guide for Federal agency personnel with additional information incorporated by references. The steps to be followed in selecting, procuring, and installing a photovoltaic application are given.

Results of chopper-controlled discharge life cycling studies on lead acid batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ewashinka, J. G.; Sidik, S. M.

1982-01-01

A group of 108 state of the art nominally 6 volt lead acid batteries were tested in a program of one charge/discharge cycle per day for over two years or to ultimate battery failure. The primary objective was to determine battery cycle life as a function of depth of discharge (25 to 75 percent), chopper frequency (100 to 1000 Hz), duty cycle (25 to 87.5 percent), and average discharge current (20 to 260 A). The secondary objective was to determine the types of battery failure modes, if any, were due to the above parameters. The four parameters above were incorporated in a statistically designed test program.

Energy Efficient Engine (E3) combustion system component technology performance report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burrus, D. L.; Chahrour, C. A.; Foltz, H. L.; Sabla, P. E.; Seto, S. P.; Taylor, J. R.

1984-01-01

The Energy Efficient Engine (E3) combustor effort was conducted as part of the overall NASA/GE E3 Program. This effort included the selection of an advanced double-annular combustion system design. The primary intent of this effort was to evolve a design that meets the stringent emissions and life goals of the E3, as well as all of the usual performance requirements of combustion systems for modern turbofan engines. Numerous detailed design studies were conducted to define the features of the combustion system design. Development test hardware was fabricated, and an extensive testing effort was undertaken to evaluate the combustion system subcomponents in order to verify and refine the design. Technology derived from this effort was incorporated into the engine combustion hardware design. The advanced engine combustion system was then evaluated in component testing to verify the design intent. What evolved from this effort was an advanced combustion system capable of satisfying all of the combustion system design objectives and requirements of the E3.

Evolutionary Design and Simulation of a Tube Crawling Inspection Robot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Craft, Michael; Howsman, Tom; ONeil, Daniel; Howell, Joe T. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

The Space Robotics Assembly Team Simulation (SpaceRATS) is an expansive concept that will hopefully lead to a space flight demonstration of a robotic team cooperatively assembling a system from its constitutive parts. A primary objective of the SpaceRATS project is to develop a generalized evolutionary design approach for multiple classes of robots. The portion of the overall SpaceRats program associated with the evolutionary design and simulation of an inspection robot's morphology is the subject of this paper. The vast majority of this effort has concentrated on the use and modification of Darwin2K, a robotic design and simulation software package, to analyze the design of a tube crawling robot. This robot is designed for carrying out inspection duties in relatively inaccessible locations within a liquid rocket engine similar to the SSME. A preliminary design of the tube crawler robot was completed, and the mechanical dynamics of the system were simulated. An evolutionary approach to optimizing a few parameters of the system was utilized, resulting in a more optimum design.

Review and analysis of the Mental Health Nurse Incentive Program.

PubMed

Happell, Brenda; Platania-Phung, Chris

2017-09-04

Objective The aim of the present study was to review and synthesise research on the Mental Health Nurse Incentive Program (MHNIP) to ascertain the benefits and limitations of this initiative for people with mental illness, general practitioners, mental health nurses and the wider community. Methods An electronic and manual search was made of the research literature for MHNIP in May 2017. Features of studies, including cohorts and findings, were tabulated and cross-study patterns in program processes and outcomes were closely compared. Results Seventeen reports of primary research data have been released. Triangulation of data from different cohorts, regions and design show that the program has been successful on the primary objectives of increased access to primary mental health care, and has received positive feedback from all major stakeholders. Although the program has been broadly beneficial to consumer health, there are inequities in access for people with mental illness. Conclusions The MHNIP greatly benefits the health of people with mental illness. Larger and more representative sampling of consumers is needed, as well as intensive case studies to provide a more comprehensive and effective understanding of the benefits and limitations of the program as it evolves with the establishment of primary health networks. What is known about the topic? The MHNIP is designed to increase access to mental health care in primary care settings such as general practice clinics. Studies have reported favourable views about the program. However, research is limited and further investigation is required to demonstrate the strengths and limitations of the program. What does this paper add? All studies reviewed reported that the MHNIP had positive implications for people with severe and persistent mental illness. Qualitative research has been most prevalent for mental health nurse views and research on Health of the Nation Outcome Scale scores for recipients of the program. There is more research on system dimensions than on person-centred care. Mental health consumers, carers and families have been neglected in the establishment, engagement and evaluation of the MHNIP. What are the implications for practitioners? A more systematic, national-level research program into the MHNIP is required that is centred more on the experiences of people with mental illness.

Dramatic Evolution of the Disk-shaped Secondary in the Orion Trapezium Star θ1 Ori B1 (BM Ori): MOST Satellite Observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Windemuth, Diana; Herbst, William; Tingle, Evan; Fuechsl, Rachel; Kilgard, Roy; Pinette, Melanie; Templeton, Matthew; Henden, Arne

2013-05-01

The eclipsing binary θ1 Orionis B1, variable star designation BM Ori, is the faintest of the four well-known Trapezium stars at the heart of the Orion Nebula. The primary is a B3 star (~6 M ⊙) but the nature of the secondary (~2 M ⊙) has long been mysterious, since the duration and shape of primary eclipse are inappropriate for any sort of ordinary star. Here we report nearly continuous photometric observations obtained with the MOST satellite over ~4 cycles of the 6.47 d binary period. The light curve is of unprecedented quality, revealing a deep, symmetric primary eclipse as well as a clear reflection effect and secondary eclipse. In addition, there are other small disturbances, some of which repeat at the same phase over the four cycles monitored. The shape of the primary light curve has clearly evolved significantly over the past 40 years. While its overall duration and depth have remained roughly constant, the slopes of the descent and ascent phases are significantly shallower now than in the past and its distinctive flat-bottomed "pseudo-totality" is much less obvious or even absent in the most recent data. We further demonstrate that the primary eclipse was detected at X-ray wavelengths during the Chandra Orion Ultradeep Project (COUP) study. The light curve continues to be well modeled by a self-luminous and reflective disk-shaped object seen nearly edge-on orbiting the B3 primary. The dramatic change in shape over four decades is modeled as an opacity variation in a tenuous outer envelope or disk of the secondary object. We presume that the secondary is an extremely young protostar at an earlier evolutionary phase than can be commonly observed elsewhere in the Galaxy and that the opacity variations observed are related to its digestion of some accreted matter over the last 50-100 years. Indeed, this object deserves continued observational and theoretical attention as the youngest known eclipsing binary system.

DRAMATIC EVOLUTION OF THE DISK-SHAPED SECONDARY IN THE ORION TRAPEZIUM STAR {theta}{sup 1} Ori B{sub 1} (BM Ori): MOST SATELLITE OBSERVATIONS

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

Windemuth, Diana; Herbst, William; Tingle, Evan

2013-05-01

The eclipsing binary {theta}{sup 1} Orionis B{sub 1}, variable star designation BM Ori, is the faintest of the four well-known Trapezium stars at the heart of the Orion Nebula. The primary is a B3 star ({approx}6 M{sub Sun }) but the nature of the secondary ({approx}2 M{sub Sun }) has long been mysterious, since the duration and shape of primary eclipse are inappropriate for any sort of ordinary star. Here we report nearly continuous photometric observations obtained with the MOST satellite over {approx}4 cycles of the 6.47 d binary period. The light curve is of unprecedented quality, revealing a deep,more » symmetric primary eclipse as well as a clear reflection effect and secondary eclipse. In addition, there are other small disturbances, some of which repeat at the same phase over the four cycles monitored. The shape of the primary light curve has clearly evolved significantly over the past 40 years. While its overall duration and depth have remained roughly constant, the slopes of the descent and ascent phases are significantly shallower now than in the past and its distinctive flat-bottomed ''pseudo-totality'' is much less obvious or even absent in the most recent data. We further demonstrate that the primary eclipse was detected at X-ray wavelengths during the Chandra Orion Ultradeep Project (COUP) study. The light curve continues to be well modeled by a self-luminous and reflective disk-shaped object seen nearly edge-on orbiting the B3 primary. The dramatic change in shape over four decades is modeled as an opacity variation in a tenuous outer envelope or disk of the secondary object. We presume that the secondary is an extremely young protostar at an earlier evolutionary phase than can be commonly observed elsewhere in the Galaxy and that the opacity variations observed are related to its digestion of some accreted matter over the last 50-100 years. Indeed, this object deserves continued observational and theoretical attention as the youngest known eclipsing binary system.« less

Archetype and object: primary deintegration and primary love in analytical play therapy with young children.

PubMed

Peery, J Craig

2002-07-01

Jungian and post-Jungian theory of the development of the child's psyche is reviewed. A discrimination between primary and secondary deintegration is suggested. Post-Freudian theory regarding primary object relations is integrated with the Jungian model. The two approaches can contribute synergistically to inform and advance play therapy with young children. Patients from widely diverse cultural backgrounds use their relationship with the therapist as a helpful person (object), and engage in archetypal material from the collective unconscious, to help them work on and through their unresolved emotional issues.

Method for automation of tool preproduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rychkov, D. A.; Yanyushkin, A. S.; Lobanov, D. V.; Arkhipov, P. V.

2018-03-01

The primary objective of tool production is a creation or selection of such tool design which could make it possible to secure high process efficiency, tool availability as well as a quality of received surfaces with minimum means and resources spent on it. It takes much time of application people, being engaged in tool preparation, to make a correct selection of the appropriate tool among the set of variants. Program software has been developed to solve the problem, which helps to create, systematize and carry out a comparative analysis of tool design to identify the rational variant under given production conditions. The literature indicates that systematization and selection of the tool rational design has been carried out in accordance with the developed modeling technology and comparative design analysis. Software application makes it possible to reduce the period of design by 80....85% and obtain a significant annual saving.

Structural design of an in-line bolted joint for the space shuttle solid rocket motor case segments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dorsey, John T.; Stein, Peter A.; Bush, Harold G.

1987-01-01

Results of a structural design study of an in-line bolted joint concept which can be used to assemble Space Shuttle Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) case segments are presented. Numerous parametric studies are performed to characterize the in-line bolted joint behavior as major design variables are altered, with the primary objective always being to keep the inside of the joint (where the O-rings are located) closed during the SRM firing. The resulting design has 180 1-inch studs, an eccentricity of -0.5 inch, a flange thickness of 3/4 inch, a bearing plate thickness of 1/4 inch, and the studs are subjected to a preload which is 70% of ultimate. The mass penalty per case segment joint for the in-line design is 346 lbm more than the weight penalty for the proposed capture tang fix.

Development of stitching reinforcement for transport wing panels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Palmer, Raymond J.; Dow, Marvin B.; Smith, Donald L.

1991-01-01

The NASA Advanced Composites Technology (ACT) program has the objective of providing the technology required to obtain the full benefit of weight savings and performance improvements offered by composite primary aircraft structures. Achieving the objective is dependent upon developing composite materials and structures which are damage tolerant and economical to manufacture. Researchers are investigating stitching reinforcement combined with resin transfer molding to produce materials meeting the ACT program objective. Research is aimed at materials, processes, and structural concepts for application in both transport wings and fuselages, but the emphasis to date has been on wing panels. Empirical guidelines are being established for stitching reinforcement in structures designed for heavy loads. Results are presented from evaluation tests investigating stitching types, threads, and density (penetrations per square inch). Tension strength, compression strength, and compression after impact data are reported.

BiomarCaRE: rationale and design of the European BiomarCaRE project including 300,000 participants from 13 European countries.

PubMed

Zeller, Tanja; Hughes, Maria; Tuovinen, Tarja; Schillert, Arne; Conrads-Frank, Annette; Ruijter, Hester den; Schnabel, Renate B; Kee, Frank; Salomaa, Veikko; Siebert, Uwe; Thorand, Barbara; Ziegler, Andreas; Breek, Heico; Pasterkamp, Gerard; Kuulasmaa, Kari; Koenig, Wolfgang; Blankenberg, Stefan

2014-10-01

Biomarkers are considered as tools to enhance cardiovascular risk estimation. However, the value of biomarkers on risk estimation beyond European risk scores, their comparative impact among different European regions and their role towards personalised medicine remains uncertain. Biomarker for Cardiovascular Risk Assessment in Europe (BiomarCaRE) is an European collaborative research project with the primary objective to assess the value of established and emerging biomarkers for cardiovascular risk prediction. BiomarCaRE integrates clinical and epidemiological biomarker research and commercial enterprises throughout Europe to combine innovation in biomarker discovery for cardiovascular disease prediction with consecutive validation of biomarker effectiveness in large, well-defined primary and secondary prevention cohorts including over 300,000 participants from 13 European countries. Results from this study will contribute to improved cardiovascular risk prediction across different European populations. The present publication describes the rationale and design of the BiomarCaRE project.

The development of an augmentor wing jet STOL research aircraft (modified C-8A). Volume 2: Analysis of contractor's flight test

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Skavdahl, H.; Patterson, D. H.

1972-01-01

The initial flight test phase of the modified C-8A airplane was conducted. The primary objective of the testing was to establish the basic airworthiness of the research vehicle. This included verification of the structural design and evaluation of the aircraft's systems. Only a minimum amount of performance testing was scheduled; this has been used to provide a preliminary indication of the airplane's performance and flight characteristics for future flight planning. The testing included flutter and loads investigations up to the maximum design speed. The operational characteristics of all systems were assessed including hydraulics, environmental control system, air ducts, the vectoring conical nozzles, and the stability augmentation system (SAS). Approaches to stall were made at three primary flap settings: up, 30 deg and 65 deg, but full stalls were not scheduled. Minimum control speeds and maneuver margins were checked. All takeoffs and landings were conventional, and STOL performance was not scheduled during this phase of the evaluation.

Active Beacon Collision Avoidance System (BCAS) Conference Proceedings, January 27-28, 1981.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-01-01

WITH THE SINGLE OBJECTIVE OF PREVENTING MIDAIR COLLISIONS WHEN, FOR WHATEVER REASON, THE PRIMARY SYSTEM FAILS TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE SEPARA- TION. THE... PREVENTION OF MIDAIR-- AND NEAR MIDAIR--COLLISIONS. THAT MUCH IS SIMPLE. BUT JUST LIKE A CONTRACT, IT BEGINS TO GET MORE COMPLiCATED WHEN WE START ADDING THE...34WHEREAS" AND THE DETAILS. FIRST, ACTIVE BCAS IS DESIGNED TO PERFORM THE COLLISION- PREVENTION FUNCTION IN AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE OTHER AIRCRAFT FROM

Proceedings of the International Symposium on Optimum Structural Design,

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-01-01

of Linear Programs) mehods . It ( uhoular be also noted that posynomialr approx-CU 2 ri nations can be constructed. When both the if objective function...same range establish the value of t. The maxi- The former value ensures little risk of rejecting a mum absolute value projected for the stress resultant...primary con- any of the external loadings from Eq. (13) is used to straints with more risk of rejecting a significant one. determine the side constraint

Understanding Current Safety Issues for Trajectory Based Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Feary, Michael; Stewart, Michael

2016-01-01

Increases in procedural complexity were investigated as a possible contributor to flight path deviations in airline operations. Understanding current operational issues and their causes must be embraced to maintain current safety standards while increasing future functionality. ASRS data and expert narratives were used to discover factors relating to pilot deviations. Our investigation pointed to ATC intervention, automation confusion, procedure design, and mixed equipment as primary issues. Future work will need to include objective data and mitigation strategies.

49 CFR Appendix B to Part 21 - Activities to Which This Part Applies When a Primary Objective of the Federal Financial...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... Primary Objective of the Federal Financial Assistance Is To Provide Employment B Appendix B to Part 21... DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION-EFFECTUATION OF TITLE VI OF THE CIVIL RIGHTS ACT OF 1964 Pt. 21, App. B Appendix B to Part 21—Activities to Which This Part Applies When a Primary Objective of the Federal Financial...

Structural Design of a 4-Meter Off-Axis Space Telescope for the Habitable-Zone Exoplanet Direct Imaging Mission

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Arnold, William, Sr.; Stahl, H Philip

2017-01-01

This design study was conducted to support the HABEX project. There are a number of companion papers at this conference which go into detail on what all the HABEX goals are. The objective of this paper is to establish a baseline primary mirror design which satisfies the following structural related requirements. The designs in this study have a high TRL (Technology Readiness Level), realistic manufacturing limits and performance in line with the HABEX mission. A secondary goal of the study was to evaluate a number competing criteria for the selection. Questions such as differences in the on axis versus off axis static and dynamic response to disturbances. This study concentrates on the structural behavior, companion papers cover thermal and long term stability aspects of the problem.

Design of a Mechanical NaK Pump for Fission Space Power

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mireles, Omar R.; Bradley, David E.; Godfroy, Thomas

2011-01-01

Alkali liquid metal cooled fission reactor concepts are under development for spaceflight power requirements. One such concept utilizes a sodium-potassium eutectic (NaK) as the primary loop working fluid, which has specific pumping requirements. Traditionally, electromagnetic linear induction pumps have been used to provide the required flow and pressure head conditions for NaK systems but they can be limited in performance, efficiency, and number of available vendors. The objective of the project was to develop a mechanical NaK centrifugal pump that takes advantages of technology advances not available in previous liquid metal mechanical pump designs. This paper details the design, build, and performance test of a mechanical NaK pump developed at NASA Marshall Space Flight Center. The pump was designed to meet reactor cooling requirements using commercially available components modified for high temperature NaK service.

Effective Implementation of Collaborative Care for Depression: What is Needed?

PubMed Central

Whitebird, Robin R.; Solberg, Leif I.; Jaeckels, Nancy A.; Pietruszewski, Pamela B.; Hadzic, Senka; Unützer, Jürgen; Ohnsorg, Kris A.; Rossom, Rebecca C.; Beck, Arne; Joslyn, Ken; Rubenstein, Lisa V.

2014-01-01

Objective To identify the care model factors that were key for successful implementation of collaborative depression care in a statewide Minnesota primary care initiative. Study Design We used a mixed-methods design incorporating both qualitative data from clinic site visits and quantitative measures of patient activation and 6-month remission rates. Methods Care model factors identified from the site visits were tested for association with rates of activation into the program and remission rates. Results Nine factors were identified as important for successful implementation of collaborative care by the consultants who had trained and interviewed participating clinic teams. Factors correlated with higher patient activation rates were: strong leadership support (0.63), well-defined and implemented care manager roles (0.62), a strong primary care physician champion (0.60), and an on-site and accessible care manager (0.59). However, remission rates at six months were correlated with: an engaged psychiatrist (0.62), not seeing operating costs as a barrier to participation (0.56), and face-to-face communication (warm handoffs) between the care-manager and primary care physician for new patients (0.54). Conclusions Care model factors most important for successful program implementation differ for patient activation into the program versus remission at six months. Knowing which implementation factors are most important for successful implementation will be useful for those interested in adopting this evidence-based approach to improve primary care for patients with depression. PMID:25365745

Development and Validation of the Primary Care Team Dynamics Survey

PubMed Central

Song, Hummy; Chien, Alyna T; Fisher, Josephine; Martin, Julia; Peters, Antoinette S; Hacker, Karen; Rosenthal, Meredith B; Singer, Sara J

2015-01-01

Objective To develop and validate a survey instrument designed to measure team dynamics in primary care. Data Sources/Study Setting We studied 1,080 physician and nonphysician health care professionals working at 18 primary care practices participating in a learning collaborative aimed at improving team-based care. Study Design We developed a conceptual model and administered a cross-sectional survey addressing team dynamics, and we assessed reliability and discriminant validity of survey factors and the overall survey's goodness-of-fit using structural equation modeling. Data Collection We administered the survey between September 2012 and March 2013. Principal Findings Overall response rate was 68 percent (732 respondents). Results support a seven-factor model of team dynamics, suggesting that conditions for team effectiveness, shared understanding, and three supportive processes are associated with acting and feeling like a team and, in turn, perceived team effectiveness. This model demonstrated adequate fit (goodness-of-fit index: 0.91), scale reliability (Cronbach's alphas: 0.71–0.91), and discriminant validity (average factor correlations: 0.49). Conclusions It is possible to measure primary care team dynamics reliably using a 29-item survey. This survey may be used in ambulatory settings to study teamwork and explore the effect of efforts to improve team-based care. Future studies should demonstrate the importance of team dynamics for markers of team effectiveness (e.g., work satisfaction, care quality, clinical outcomes). PMID:25423886

Design and Baseline Characteristics from the KAN-QUIT Disease Management Intervention for Rural Smokers in Primary Care

PubMed Central

Cox, Lisa Sanderson; Cupertino, Ana-Paula; Mussulman, Laura M.; Nazir, Niaman; Greiner, K. Allen; Mahnken, Jonathan D.; Ahluwalia, Jasjit S.; Ellerbeck, Edward F.

2008-01-01

Objective To describe the design, implementation, baseline data, and feasibility of establishing a disease management program for smoking cessation in rural primary care. Method The study is a randomized clinical trial evaluating a disease management program for smoking cessation. The intervention combined pharmacotherapy, telephone counseling, and physician feedback, and repeated intervention over two years. The program began in 2004 and was implemented in 50 primary care clinics across the State of Kansas. Results Of eligible patients, 73% were interested in study participation. 750 enrolled participants were predominantly Caucasian, female, employed, and averaged 47.2 years of age (SD=13.1). In addition to smoking, 427 (57%) had at least one additional major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, heart disease or stroke). Participants smoked on average 23.7 (SD=10.4) cigarettes per day, were contemplating (61%) or preparing to quit (30%), were highly motivated and confident of their ability to quit smoking, and reported seeing their physicians multiple times in the past twelve months (Median=3.50; Mean=5.48; SD=6.58). Conclusion Initial findings demonstrate the willingness of patients to enroll in a two-year disease management program to address nicotine dependence, even among patients not ready to make a quit attempt. These findings support the feasibility of identifying and enrolling rural smokers within the primary care setting. PMID:18544464

OBJECT KINETIC MONTE CARLO SIMULATIONS OF CASCADE ANNEALING IN TUNGSTEN

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

Nandipati, Giridhar; Setyawan, Wahyu; Heinisch, Howard L.

2014-03-31

The objective of this work is to study the annealing of primary cascade damage created by primary knock-on atoms (PKAs) of various energies, at various temperatures in bulk tungsten using the object kinetic Monte Carlo (OKMC) method.

Visual Sensor Based Abnormal Event Detection with Moving Shadow Removal in Home Healthcare Applications

PubMed Central

Lee, Young-Sook; Chung, Wan-Young

2012-01-01

Vision-based abnormal event detection for home healthcare systems can be greatly improved using visual sensor-based techniques able to detect, track and recognize objects in the scene. However, in moving object detection and tracking processes, moving cast shadows can be misclassified as part of objects or moving objects. Shadow removal is an essential step for developing video surveillance systems. The goal of the primary is to design novel computer vision techniques that can extract objects more accurately and discriminate between abnormal and normal activities. To improve the accuracy of object detection and tracking, our proposed shadow removal algorithm is employed. Abnormal event detection based on visual sensor by using shape features variation and 3-D trajectory is presented to overcome the low fall detection rate. The experimental results showed that the success rate of detecting abnormal events was 97% with a false positive rate of 2%. Our proposed algorithm can allow distinguishing diverse fall activities such as forward falls, backward falls, and falling asides from normal activities. PMID:22368486

Anthropometric evaluation and recommendation for primary schools classroom furniture design in Perlis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shan, Lim Shaiu; Jing, Ewe Hui; Effendi, M. S. M.; Rosli, Muhamad Farizuan

2017-09-01

This study was carried out with the objective to obtain the anthropometric data of primary school children from Year 1 to Year 6 and evaluate the children's anthropometry with the current dimensions of classroom furniture (i.e. chair and table). In addition, this study also proposed the design dimensions for the improvement in classroom furniture design with the consideration of children's anthropometric data. A total of 390 children selected from 13 primary schools in Perlis, Malaysia were participated in this study. There were 11 anthropometric measurements of children have been measured in this study, which include stature (St), popliteal height (PH), knee height (KH), thigh thickness (TT), buttock popliteal length (BPL), hip breadth (HB), sitting shoulder height (SSH), sitting elbow height (SEH), forearm-hand length (FHL), height of lumbar point (HLP) and buttock clearance (BC). Besides that, 7 dimensions relating to current classroom chair have been measured, such as seat height (SH), seat depth (SD), seat width (SW), upper edge of backrest (UEB), lower edge of backrest (LEB), S point (SP), overall chair height (OCH). Another 5 dimensions of the existing classroom table have been measured too, which involve table height (TH), table depth (TD), table width (TW), under table height (UH) and seat to table clearance (STC). All the measurements were performed by using metal measuring tape. The anthropometric data of the children were analyzed with the help of Microsoft Excel 2013. Several equations with associated with the anthropometric data and furniture dimensions have been applied in this research. The new design dimensions for classroom furniture that proposed in this paper which based on the collected anthropometric data can be referred as a guideline for classroom furniture design. The implementation of these data may help to create comfortability, safety, suitability and improve performance of children in the classroom.

Front-line window therapy with cisplatin in patients with primary disseminated Ewing sarcoma: A study by the Associazione Italiana di Ematologia ed Oncologia Pediatrica and Italian Sarcoma Group.

PubMed

Luksch, Roberto; Grignani, Giovanni; D'Angelo, Paolo; Prete, Arcangelo; Puma, Nadia; Podda, Marta; Casanova, Michela; Ferrari, Andrea; Morosi, Carlo; Fagioli, Franca; Aglietta, Massimo; Ferrari, Stefano; Picci, Piero; Massimino, Maura

2017-12-01

The aim was to assess the activity of cisplatin (CDDP) in Ewing sarcoma (ES). The study consisted of front-line window therapy with CDDP 120 mg/sqm every 3 weeks for two courses in children and young adults with primary disseminated ES. Response was assessed using the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours criteria, and Simon's two-stage design was applied. Twelve consecutive patients were enrolled in stage 1. Only one objective response was observed. Since the target response rate was not achieved, accrual was stopped and CDDP as a single agent in ES was judged unworthy of further assessment. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The NEAR Multispectral Imager.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hawkins, S. E., III

1998-06-01

Multispectral Imager, one of the primary instruments on the Near Earth Asteroid Rendezvous (NEAR) spacecraft, uses a five-element refractive optics telescope, an eight-position filter wheel, and a charge-coupled device detector to acquire images over its sensitive wavelength range of ≍400 - 1100 nm. The primary science objectives of the Multispectral Imager are to determine the morphology and composition of the surface of asteroid 433 Eros. The camera will have a critical role in navigating to the asteroid. Seven narrowband spectral filters have been selected to provide multicolor imaging for comparative studies with previous observations of asteroids in the same class as Eros. The eighth filter is broadband and will be used for optical navigation. An overview of the instrument is presented, and design parameters and tradeoffs are discussed.

A dynamic seating intervention for wheelchair seating discomfort.

PubMed

Crane, Barbara A; Holm, Margo B; Hobson, Douglas; Cooper, Rory A; Reed, Matthew P

2007-12-01

The objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a new user-adjustable wheelchair seating system designed to relieve discomfort for long-duration wheelchair users. This objective was carried out using the newly developed Tool for Assessing Wheelchair disComfort (TAWC) as the primary outcome measure. Two wheelchair users each tested two different designs and feedback from the wheelchair users regarding the first design was used to guide development of the second design. A single-subject research methodology was used, allowing long-duration (up to 2 wks per test) evaluation of the wheelchair seating systems and comparison of subject discomfort levels with those experienced during a baseline period using their own wheelchairs. The experimental wheelchair seating systems employed existing automotive seating with embedded pneumatic bladders that allowed adjustment of the seat and back-support characteristics. The test wheelchair also had tilt, recline, and elevating leg rests. The two subjects completed limited periods of testing with the first design, both finding poor results with either stable or increased levels of discomfort. Subject feedback was used to redesign the wheelchair seat. After redesign, both subjects tested the second design and found it substantially more comfortable. The selected research methodology was a very positive method for a progressive wheelchair seating design and the second design provided improved comfort for both users when compared with that experienced using their own wheelchairs and the first test wheelchair. Future research of this type of user-controlled technology is recommended.

Study report recommendations for the next generation Range Safety System (RSS) Integrated Receiver/Decoder (IRD)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Crosby, Robert H.

1992-01-01

The Integrated Receiver/Decoder (IRD) currently used on the Space Shuttle was designed in the 1980 and prior time frame. Over the past 12 years, several parts have become obsolete or difficult to obtain. As directed by the Marshall Space Flight Center, a primary objective is to investigate updating the IRD design using the latest technology subsystems. To take advantage of experience with the current designs, an analysis of failures and a review of discrepancy reports, material review board actions, scrap, etc. are given. A recommended new design designated as the Advanced Receiver/Decoder (ARD) is presented. This design uses the latest technology components to simplify circuits, improve performance, reduce size and cost, and improve reliability. A self-test command is recommended that can improve and simplify operational procedures. Here, the new design is contrasted with the old. Possible simplification of the total Range Safety System is discussed, as is a single-step crypto technique that can improve and simplify operational procedures.

Consolidation of graphite thermoplastic textile preforms for primary aircraft structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Suarez, J.; Mahon, J.

1991-01-01

The use of innovative cost effective material forms and processes is being considered for fabrication of future primary aircraft structures. Processes that have been identified as meeting these goals are textile preforms that use resin transfer molding (RTM) and consolidation forming. The Novel Composites for Wing and Fuselage Applications (NCWFA) program has as its objective the integration of innovative design concepts with cost effective fabrication processes to develop damage-tolerant structures that can perform at a design ultimate strain level of 6000 micro-inch/inch. In this on-going effort, design trade studies were conducted to arrive at advanced wing designs that integrate new material forms with innovative structural concepts and cost effective fabrication methods. The focus has been on minimizing part count (mechanical fasteners, clips, number of stiffeners, etc.), by using cost effective textile reinforcement concepts that provide improved damage tolerance and out-of-plane load capability, low-cost resin transfer molding processing, and thermoplastic forming concepts. The fabrication of representative Y spars by consolidation methods will be described. The Y spars were fabricated using AS4 (6K)/PEEK 150g commingled angle interlock 0/90-degree woven preforms with +45-degree commingled plies stitched using high strength Toray carbon thread and processed by autoclave consolidation.

STS-63 Space Shuttle report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fricke, Robert W., Jr.

1995-01-01

The STS-63 Space Shuttle Program Mission Report summarizes the Payload activities and provides detailed data on the Orbiter, External Tank (ET), Solid Rocket Booster (SRB), Reusable Solid Rocket Motor (RSRM), and the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME) systems performance during this sixty-seventh flight of the Space Shuttle Program, the forty-second since the return to flight, and twentieth flight of the Orbiter vehicle Discovery (OV-103). In addition to the OV-103 Orbiter vehicle, the flight vehicle consisted of an ET that was designated ET-68; three SSME's that were designated 2035, 2109, and 2029 in positions 1, 2, and 3, respectively; and two SRB's that were designated BI-070. The RSRM's that were an integral part of the SRB's were designated 360Q042A for the left SRB and 360L042B for the right SRB. The STS-63 mission was planned as an 8-day duration mission with two contingency days available for weather avoidance or Orbiter contingency operations. The primary objectives of the STS-63 mission were to perform the Mir rendezvous operations, accomplish the Spacehab-3 experiments, and deploy and retrieve the Shuttle Pointed Autonomous Research Tool for Astronomy-204 (SPARTAN-204) payload. The secondary objectives were to perform the Cryogenic Systems Experiment (CSE)/Shuttle Glo-2 Experiment (GLO-2) Payload (CGP)/Orbital Debris Radar Calibration Spheres (ODERACS-2) (CGP/ODERACS-2) payload objectives, the Solid Surface Combustion Experiment (SSCE), and the Air Force Maui Optical Site Calibration Tests (AMOS). The objectives of the Mir rendezvous/flyby were to verify flight techniques, communication and navigation-aid sensor interfaces, and engineering analyses associated with Shuttle/Mir proximity operations in preparation for the STS-71 docking mission.

Sleep among bereaved caregivers of patients admitted to hospice: a 1-year longitudinal pilot study

PubMed Central

Slåtten, Kari; Saghaug, Elisabeth; Grov, Ellen Karine; Normann, Are Peder; Lee, Kathryn A; Bjorvatn, Bjørn; Gay, Caryl L

2016-01-01

Objectives This pilot study aimed to describe the sleep of partners and other family caregivers prior to and in the first year after a hospice patient's death. The study also evaluated the feasibility of the study protocol and determined the effect sizes in preparation for a full-scale study. Design The pilot study used a longitudinal, descriptive and comparative design. Setting and participants Participants included primary family caregivers of patients admitted to a hospice in Oslo, Norway. Primary outcome Caregiver sleep was measured subjectively with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and objectively using wrist actigraphy for 4 nights and 3 days at three different times: during the hospice stay, and at 6 and 12 months after the patient's death. Results 16 family caregivers (10 partners and 6 other family members) completed the 1-year study protocol. Overall, sleep quality and quantity were stable over time and at each assessment, approximately half of the sample had poor sleep quality, both by self-report and objective measures. However, the sleep trajectories differed significantly over time, with older caregivers (≥65 years) having significantly longer sleep durations than younger caregivers (<65 years). Furthermore, sleep quality also differed over time depending on the caregiver's relationship to the patient, with partner caregivers having significantly worse sleep quality than other family caregivers. Conclusions Caring for a dying family member is known to interfere with sleep, yet little is known about bereaved caregivers. The results of this pilot study demonstrate the feasibility of the longitudinal study protocol and indicate that sleep problems are common for caregivers and continue into the bereavement period, particularly for partner caregivers. The caregiver's relationship to the patient may be an important factor to consider in future studies. PMID:26729383

Review of quality assessment tools for the evaluation of pharmacoepidemiological safety studies

PubMed Central

Neyarapally, George A; Hammad, Tarek A; Pinheiro, Simone P; Iyasu, Solomon

2012-01-01

Objectives Pharmacoepidemiological studies are an important hypothesis-testing tool in the evaluation of postmarketing drug safety. Despite the potential to produce robust value-added data, interpretation of findings can be hindered due to well-recognised methodological limitations of these studies. Therefore, assessment of their quality is essential to evaluating their credibility. The objective of this review was to evaluate the suitability and relevance of available tools for the assessment of pharmacoepidemiological safety studies. Design We created an a priori assessment framework consisting of reporting elements (REs) and quality assessment attributes (QAAs). A comprehensive literature search identified distinct assessment tools and the prespecified elements and attributes were evaluated. Primary and secondary outcome measures The primary outcome measure was the percentage representation of each domain, RE and QAA for the quality assessment tools. Results A total of 61 tools were reviewed. Most tools were not designed to evaluate pharmacoepidemiological safety studies. More than 50% of the reviewed tools considered REs under the research aims, analytical approach, outcome definition and ascertainment, study population and exposure definition and ascertainment domains. REs under the discussion and interpretation, results and study team domains were considered in less than 40% of the tools. Except for the data source domain, quality attributes were considered in less than 50% of the tools. Conclusions Many tools failed to include critical assessment elements relevant to observational pharmacoepidemiological safety studies and did not distinguish between REs and QAAs. Further, there is a lack of considerations on the relative weights of different domains and elements. The development of a quality assessment tool would facilitate consistent, objective and evidence-based assessments of pharmacoepidemiological safety studies. PMID:23015600

The Thrombin Receptor Antagonist for Clinical Event Reduction in Acute Coronary Syndrome (TRA*CER) trial: study design and rationale.

PubMed

2009-09-01

The protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR-1), the main platelet receptor for thrombin, represents a novel target for treatment of arterial thrombosis, and SCH 530348 is an orally active, selective, competitive PAR-1 antagonist. We designed TRA*CER to evaluate the efficacy and safety of SCH 530348 compared with placebo in addition to standard of care in patients with non-ST-segment elevation (NSTE) acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and high-risk features. TRA*CER is a prospective, randomized, double-blind, multicenter, phase III trial with an original estimated sample size of 10,000 subjects. Our primary objective is to demonstrate that SCH 530348 in addition to standard of care will reduce the incidence of the composite of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, recurrent ischemia with rehospitalization, and urgent coronary revascularization compared with standard of care alone. Our key secondary objective is to determine whether SCH 530348 will reduce the composite of cardiovascular death, MI, or stroke compared with standard of care alone. Secondary objectives related to safety are the composite of moderate and severe GUSTO bleeding and clinically significant TIMI bleeding. The trial will continue until a predetermined minimum number of centrally adjudicated primary and key secondary end point events have occurred and all subjects have participated in the study for at least 1 year. The TRA*CER trial is part of the large phase III SCH 530348 development program that includes a concomitant evaluation in secondary prevention. TRA*CER will define efficacy and safety of the novel platelet PAR-1 inhibitor SCH 530348 in the treatment of high-risk patients with NSTE ACS in the setting of current treatment strategies.

Solar Power System Options for the Radiation and Technology Demonstration Spacecraft

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kerslake, Thomas W.; Haraburda, Francis M.; Riehl, John P.

2000-01-01

The Radiation and Technology Demonstration (RTD) Mission has the primary objective of demonstrating high-power (10 kilowatts) electric thruster technologies in Earth orbit. This paper discusses the conceptual design of the RTD spacecraft photovoltaic (PV) power system and mission performance analyses. These power system studies assessed multiple options for PV arrays, battery technologies and bus voltage levels. To quantify performance attributes of these power system options, a dedicated Fortran code was developed to predict power system performance and estimate system mass. The low-thrust mission trajectory was analyzed and important Earth orbital environments were modeled. Baseline power system design options are recommended on the basis of performance, mass and risk/complexity. Important findings from parametric studies are discussed and the resulting impacts to the spacecraft design and cost.

Establishing a Framework of Influential Factors on Empowering Primary School Students in Peer Mediation

PubMed Central

Jorbozeh, Hamideh; Dehdari, Tahereh; Ashoorkhani, Mahnaz; Taghdisi, Mohammad Hossein

2014-01-01

Background: Empowerment of children and adolescents in terms of social skills is critical for promoting their social health. Objectives: This study attempts to explore a framework of influential factors on empowering primary school students by means of peer mediation from the stakeholders' point of view, as a qualitative content analysis design. Patients and Methods: This study was a qualitative content analysis (conventional method). Seven focused group discussions and six in-depth interviews were conducted with schoolchildren, parents and education authorities. Following each interview, recordings were entered to an open code software and analyzed. Data collection was continued up to data saturation. Results: Within the provided framework, the participants' views and comments were classified into two major categories “educational empowerment” and “social empowerment”, and into two themes; “program” and “advocacy”. The “program” theme included factors such as design and implementation, development, maintenance and improvement, and individual and social impact. The “advocacy” theme included factors such as social, emotional and physical support. Conclusions: The explained framework components regarding peer mediation are useful to design peace education programs and to empower school-age children in peer mediation. PMID:25763191

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

Not Available

The GEM collaboration was formed in June 1991 to develop a major detector for the SSC. The primary physics objectives of GEM are those central to the motivation for the SSC, to study high p{sub T} physics - exemplified by the search for Higgs bosons - and to search for new physics beyond the standard model. The authors present in this Technical Design Report (TDR) a detector with broad capabilities for the discovery and subsequent study of electroweak symmetry breaking, the origin of mass and flavor, and other physics requiring precise measurements of gammas, electrons, and muons - hence themore » name, GEM. In addition, as a design goal, they have taken care to provide the robustness needed to do the physics that requires high luminosity. Finally, good coverage and hermeticity allow the detection of missing transverse energy, E{sub T}. The GEM design emphasizes clean identification and high resolution measurement of the primary physics signatures for high p{sub T} physics. The approach is to make precise energy measurements that maximize the sensitivity to rare narrow resonances, to detect the elementary interaction products (quarks, leptons, and photons), and to build in the features required to reduce backgrounds.« less

Virtual Patients in Primary Care: Developing a Reusable Model That Fosters Reflective Practice and Clinical Reasoning

PubMed Central

Zary, Nabil; Björklund, Karin; Toth-Pal, Eva; Leanderson, Charlotte

2014-01-01

Background Primary care is an integral part of the medical curriculum at Karolinska Institutet, Sweden. It is present at every stage of the students’ education. Virtual patients (VPs) may support learning processes and be a valuable complement in teaching communication skills, patient-centeredness, clinical reasoning, and reflective thinking. Current literature on virtual patients lacks reports on how to design and use virtual patients with a primary care perspective. Objective The objective of this study was to create a model for a virtual patient in primary care that facilitates medical students’ reflective practice and clinical reasoning. The main research question was how to design a virtual patient model with embedded process skills suitable for primary care education. Methods The VP model was developed using the Open Tufts University Sciences Knowledgebase (OpenTUSK) virtual patient system as a prototyping tool. Both the VP model and the case created using the developed model were validated by a group of 10 experienced primary care physicians and then further improved by a work group of faculty involved in the medical program. The students’ opinions on the VP were investigated through focus group interviews with 14 students and the results analyzed using content analysis. Results The VP primary care model was based on a patient-centered model of consultation modified according to the Calgary-Cambridge Guides, and the learning outcomes of the study program in medicine were taken into account. The VP primary care model is based on Kolb’s learning theories and consists of several learning cycles. Each learning cycle includes a didactic inventory and then provides the student with a concrete experience (video, pictures, and other material) and preformulated feedback. The students’ learning process was visualized by requiring the students to expose their clinical reasoning and reflections in-action in every learning cycle. Content analysis of the focus group interviews showed good acceptance of the model by students. The VP was regarded as an intermediate learning activity and a complement to both the theoretical and the clinical part of the education, filling out gaps in clinical knowledge. The content of the VP case was regarded as authentic and the students appreciated the immediate feedback. The students found the structure of the model interactive and easy to follow. The students also reported that the VP case supported their self-directed learning and reflective ability. Conclusions We have built a new VP model for primary care with embedded communication training and iterated learning cycles that in pilot testing showed good acceptance by students, supporting their self-directed learning and reflective thinking. PMID:24394603

Application of lead-acrylic compensating filters in chiropractic full spine radiography: a technical report

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

Buehler, M.T.; Hrejsa, A.F.

X-raying the entire spinal column in the standing position in a single exposure (mainly the AP projection) is an often-used chiropractic radiography procedure which has also found some application in medical scoliosis screening program. Aside from any controversy of clinical objectives or medical necessity, the primary agreed-upon requisite for such procedure is twofold; achieving the best possible film image quality with the least amount of radiation exposure to the patient. A popular method of accomplishing this objective is by the use of collimator-attached devices designed to selectively filter the primary x-ray beam in accordance with regional variations of body thicknessmore » and/or density. This study was conducted to evaluate the use of a new lead-acrylic filter system under specialized chiropractic conditions. In comparison to other available systems, it was concluded that this new system; a) is generally equivalent in its radiation dose reduction capabilities; b) is capable of producing full spine radiographs with good to above average image quality; and c) is appreciably easier to use.« less

Comparison of microwave ablation, botulinum toxin injection, and liposuction-curettage in the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis: A systematic review.

PubMed

Nasr, Marwan W; Jabbour, Samer F; Haber, Roger N; Kechichian, Elio G; El Hachem, Lena

2017-02-01

Primary focal axillary hyperhidrosis is a disorder of excessive sweating that can strongly impact quality of life. The objective if this study was to compare microwave ablation (MA), botulinum toxin (BT) injection, and liposuction-curettage (LC) in the treatment of primary axillary hyperhidrosis based on subjective and objective criteria. A systematic review of the literature published in French or English between 1 January 1991 and 1 February 2015 was completed using PubMed and Embase databases. 16 of 775 articles were selected based on relevance and criteria of inclusion and exclusion. The three methods proved to be efficient and safe; however, MA and BT had better results when compared to LC in the short term. Both MA and LC showed longer lasting results when compared to BT. However, in the long term, MA was superior to LC. MA, LC, and BT injections are safe and efficient minimally invasive alternatives for the treatment of axillary hyperhidrosis. Well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to further compare the efficacy of these techniques.

Energy Efficient Engine combustor test hardware detailed design report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burrus, D. L.; Chahrour, C. A.; Foltz, H. L.; Sabla, P. E.; Seto, S. P.; Taylor, J. R.

1984-01-01

The Energy Efficient Engine (E3) Combustor Development effort was conducted as part of the overall NASA/GE E3 Program. This effort included the selection of an advanced double-annular combustion system design. The primary intent was to evolve a design which meets the stringent emissions and life goals of the E3 as well as all of the usual performance requirements of combustion systems for modern turbofan engines. Numerous detailed design studies were conducted to define the features of the combustion system design. Development test hardware was fabricated, and an extensive testing effort was undertaken to evaluate the combustion system subcomponents in order to verify and refine the design. Technology derived from this development effort will be incorporated into the engine combustion system hardware design. This advanced engine combustion system will then be evaluated in component testing to verify the design intent. What is evolving from this development effort is an advanced combustion system capable of satisfying all of the combustion system design objectives and requirements of the E3. Fuel nozzle, diffuser, starting, and emissions design studies are discussed.

Primary Surgery vs Radiotherapy for Early Stage Oral Cavity Cancer.

PubMed

Ellis, Mark A; Graboyes, Evan M; Wahlquist, Amy E; Neskey, David M; Kaczmar, John M; Schopper, Heather K; Sharma, Anand K; Morgan, Patrick F; Nguyen, Shaun A; Day, Terry A

2018-04-01

Objective The goal of this study is to determine the effect of primary surgery vs radiotherapy (RT) on overall survival (OS) in patients with early stage oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC). In addition, this study attempts to identify factors associated with receiving primary RT. Study Design Retrospective cohort study. Setting National Cancer Database (NCDB, 2004-2013). Subjects and Methods Reviewing the NCDB from 2004 to 2013, patients with early stage I to II OCSCC were identified. Kaplan-Meier estimates of survival, Cox regression analysis, and propensity score matching were used to examine differences in OS between primary surgery and primary RT. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with primary RT. Results Of the 20,779 patients included in the study, 95.4% (19,823 patients) underwent primary surgery and 4.6% (956 patients) underwent primary RT. After adjusting for covariates, primary RT was associated with an increased risk of mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.97; 99% confidence interval [CI], 1.74-2.22). On multivariable analysis, factors associated with primary RT included age ≥70 years, black race, Medicaid or Medicare insurance, no insurance, oral cavity subsite other than tongue, clinical stage II disease, low-volume treatment facilities, and earlier treatment year. Conclusion Primary RT for early stage OCSCC is associated with increased mortality. Approximately 5% of patients receive primary RT; however, this percentage is decreasing. Patients at highest risk for receiving primary RT include those who are elderly, black, with public insurance, and treated at low-volume facilities.

Design of the iPlay study: systematic development of a physical activity injury prevention programme for primary school children.

PubMed

Collard, Dorine C M; Chinapaw, Mai J M; van Mechelen, Willem; Verhagen, Evert A L M

2009-01-01

Health benefits of physical activity in children are well known. However, a drawback is the risk of physical activity-related injuries. Children are at particular risk for these injuries, because of a high level of exposure. Because of the high prevalence of physical activity injuries and the negative short- and long-term consequences, prevention of these injuries in children is important. This article describes how we systematically developed a school-based physical activity injury prevention programme using the intervention mapping (IM) protocol. IM describes a process for developing theory- and evidence-based health promotion programmes. The development can be described in six steps: (i) perform a needs assessment; (ii) identify programme and performance objectives; (iii) select methods and strategies; (iv) develop programme; (v) adopt and implement; and (vi) evaluate. First, the results of the needs assessment showed the injury problem in children and the different risk factors for physical activity injuries. Based on the results of the needs assessment the main focus of the injury prevention programme was described. Second, the overall programme objective of the injury prevention programme was defined as reducing the incidence of lower extremity physical activity injuries. Third, theoretical methods and practical strategies were selected to accomplish a decrease in injury incidence. The theoretical methods used were active learning, providing cues and scenario-based risk information, and active processing of information. The practical strategy of the injury prevention programme was an 8-month course about injury prevention to be used in physical education classes in primary schools. Fourth, programme materials that were used in the injury prevention programme were developed, including newsletters for children and parents, posters, exercises to improve motor fitness, and an information website. Fifth, an implementation plan was designed in order to ensure that the prevention programme would be implemented, adopted and sustained over time. Finally, an evaluation plan was designed. The injury prevention programme is being evaluated in a cluster randomized controlled trial with more than 2200 children from 40 primary schools throughout the Netherlands. The IM process is a useful process for developing an injury prevention programme. Based on the steps of the IM we developed an 8-month injury prevention programme to be used in physical education classes of primary schools.

Into the Curriculum. Art: Landscape Painting; Home Economics/Social Studies: Greek Clothing; Reading/Language Arts: In Search of Greek and Roman Gods and Goddesses!; Science: Magnets; Social Studies/Language Arts: Great Primary Sources on the Great Depression: Using the Library of Congress Collections Online.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barbour, Jeffrey Paul; Ward, Lisa M.

2001-01-01

Provides five fully developed library media activities that are designed for use with specific curriculum units in art, home economics, social studies, reading, language arts, and science. Library Media skills, curriculum objectives, grade levels, resources, instructional roles, procedures, evaluation, and follow-up are described for each…

Fundamental investigation of ultraviolet radiation effects in polymeric film-forming materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Giori, C.; Yamauchi, T.; Llewellen, P.; Gilligan, J.

1974-01-01

A literature search from 1958 to present was conducted on the effect of ultraviolet radiation on polymeric materials, with particular emphasis on vacuum photolysis, mechanisms of degradation, and energy transfer phenomena. The literature from 1958 to 1968 was searched manually, while the literature from 1968 to present was searched by using a computerized keyword system. The primary objective was to provide the necessary background information for the design of new or modified materials with improved stability to the vacuum-radiation environment of space.

Computational Materials: Modeling and Simulation of Nanostructured Materials and Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gates, Thomas S.; Hinkley, Jeffrey A.

2003-01-01

The paper provides details on the structure and implementation of the Computational Materials program at the NASA Langley Research Center. Examples are given that illustrate the suggested approaches to predicting the behavior and influencing the design of nanostructured materials such as high-performance polymers, composites, and nanotube-reinforced polymers. Primary simulation and measurement methods applicable to multi-scale modeling are outlined. Key challenges including verification and validation of models are highlighted and discussed within the context of NASA's broad mission objectives.

Shared leadership in a newly merged medical center.

PubMed

Coluccio, M; Havlick, K

1998-01-01

Mergers of new health care entities require visionary leadership in forming effective partnerships. Shared leadership was one key ingredient in blending two major health care competitors in the Northwest. Building a successful foundation for shared leadership required formation of a common vision, definition of core values, and establishment of guiding principles. Honoring respective cultures, recognizing achievements, and inviting participation led to the design of the shared leadership model focused on the primary objective for the merger: Enhancing health care services to the community.