50 CFR 18.126 - What does a Letter of Authorization allow?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Oil and Gas Exploration, Development, and Production Activities in the Beaufort Sea and Adjacent...) Developing oil fields and associated activities; (4) Drilling production wells and performing production support operations; (5) Conducting environmental monitoring activities associated with exploration...

50 CFR 18.126 - What does a Letter of Authorization allow?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Oil and Gas Exploration, Development, and Production Activities in the Beaufort Sea and Adjacent...) Developing oil fields and associated activities; (4) Drilling production wells and performing production support operations; (5) Conducting environmental monitoring activities associated with exploration...

Operational seasonal forecasting of crop performance.

PubMed

Stone, Roger C; Meinke, Holger

2005-11-29

Integrated, interdisciplinary crop performance forecasting systems, linked with appropriate decision and discussion support tools, could substantially improve operational decision making in agricultural management. Recent developments in connecting numerical weather prediction models and general circulation models with quantitative crop growth models offer the potential for development of integrated systems that incorporate components of long-term climate change. However, operational seasonal forecasting systems have little or no value unless they are able to change key management decisions. Changed decision making through incorporation of seasonal forecasting ultimately has to demonstrate improved long-term performance of the cropping enterprise. Simulation analyses conducted on specific production scenarios are especially useful in improving decisions, particularly if this is done in conjunction with development of decision-support systems and associated facilitated discussion groups. Improved management of the overall crop production system requires an interdisciplinary approach, where climate scientists, agricultural scientists and extension specialists are intimately linked with crop production managers in the development of targeted seasonal forecast systems. The same principle applies in developing improved operational management systems for commodity trading organizations, milling companies and agricultural marketing organizations. Application of seasonal forecast systems across the whole value chain in agricultural production offers considerable benefits in improving overall operational management of agricultural production.

Operational seasonal forecasting of crop performance

PubMed Central

Stone, Roger C; Meinke, Holger

2005-01-01

Integrated, interdisciplinary crop performance forecasting systems, linked with appropriate decision and discussion support tools, could substantially improve operational decision making in agricultural management. Recent developments in connecting numerical weather prediction models and general circulation models with quantitative crop growth models offer the potential for development of integrated systems that incorporate components of long-term climate change. However, operational seasonal forecasting systems have little or no value unless they are able to change key management decisions. Changed decision making through incorporation of seasonal forecasting ultimately has to demonstrate improved long-term performance of the cropping enterprise. Simulation analyses conducted on specific production scenarios are especially useful in improving decisions, particularly if this is done in conjunction with development of decision-support systems and associated facilitated discussion groups. Improved management of the overall crop production system requires an interdisciplinary approach, where climate scientists, agricultural scientists and extension specialists are intimately linked with crop production managers in the development of targeted seasonal forecast systems. The same principle applies in developing improved operational management systems for commodity trading organizations, milling companies and agricultural marketing organizations. Application of seasonal forecast systems across the whole value chain in agricultural production offers considerable benefits in improving overall operational management of agricultural production. PMID:16433097

The Development of a Graphical Notation for the Formal Specification of Software

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-12-01

the language. A detailed user survey should be performed after the language implementation is complete to determine the effectiveness of the graphical...productivity. ’Ihere is no better way to improve programmer productivity than to help the programmer to avoid performing the work in the first place. This is...optional prototyping phase is performed ) to develop a computer program (2:40). In 1985, Robert Balzer proposed the program transformation lifecycle

Applying probabilistic well-performance parameters to assessments of shale-gas resources

USGS Publications Warehouse

Charpentier, Ronald R.; Cook, Troy

2010-01-01

In assessing continuous oil and gas resources, such as shale gas, it is important to describe not only the ultimately producible volumes, but also the expected well performance. This description is critical to any cost analysis or production scheduling. A probabilistic approach facilitates (1) the inclusion of variability in well performance within a continuous accumulation, and (2) the use of data from developed accumulations as analogs for the assessment of undeveloped accumulations. In assessing continuous oil and gas resources of the United States, the U.S. Geological Survey analyzed production data from many shale-gas accumulations. Analyses of four of these accumulations (the Barnett, Woodford, Fayetteville, and Haynesville shales) are presented here as examples of the variability of well performance. For example, the distribution of initial monthly production rates for Barnett vertical wells shows a noticeable change with time, first increasing because of improved completion practices, then decreasing from a combination of decreased reservoir pressure (in infill wells) and drilling in less productive areas. Within a partially developed accumulation, historical production data from that accumulation can be used to estimate production characteristics of undrilled areas. An understanding of the probabilistic relations between variables, such as between initial production and decline rates, can improve estimates of ultimate production. Time trends or spatial trends in production data can be clarified by plots and maps. The data can also be divided into subsets depending on well-drilling or well-completion techniques, such as vertical in relation to horizontal wells. For hypothetical or lightly developed accumulations, one can either make comparisons to a specific well-developed accumulation or to the entire range of available developed accumulations. Comparison of the distributions of initial monthly production rates of the four shale-gas accumulations that were studied shows substantial overlap. However, because of differences in decline rates among them, the resulting estimated ultimate recovery (EUR) distributions are considerably different.

77 FR 8284 - Western Digital Technologies, Inc., Hard Drive Development Engineering Group Irvine (Formerly at...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-14

...'s facilities in Asia for engineering positions involving production, design, and development work... that appear to relate to production and design work and one position advertised by Western Digital in... performed new product design and their duties extend to sustaining production. AR 152, 212- 218, 228-231...

Liposomal Drug Product Development and Quality: Current US Experience and Perspective.

PubMed

Kapoor, Mamta; Lee, Sau L; Tyner, Katherine M

2017-05-01

Research in the area of liposomes has grown substantially in the past few decades. Liposomes are lipid bilayer structures that can incorporate drug substances to modify the drug's pharmacokinetic profile thereby improving drug delivery. The agency has received over 400 liposomal drug product submissions (excluding combination therapies), and there are currently eight approved liposomal drug products on the US market. In order to identify the pain points in development and manufacturing of liposomal drug products, a retrospective analysis was performed from a quality perspective on submissions for new and generic liposomal drug products. General analysis on liposomal drug product submissions was also performed. Results indicated that 96% of the submissions were Investigational New Drug (IND) applications, 3% were New Drug Applications (NDAs), and the remaining 1% was Abbreviated New Drug Applications (ANDAs). Doxorubicin hydrochloride was the most commonly used drug substance incorporated into the liposomes (31%). The majority of the liposomal products were administered via intravenous route (84%) with cancer (various types) being the most common indication (63%). From a quality perspective, major challenges during the development of liposomal drug products included identification and (appropriate) characterization of critical quality attributes of liposomal drug products and suitable control strategies during product development. By focusing on these areas, a faster and more efficient development of liposomal drug products may be achieved. Additionally, in this way, the drug review process for such products can be streamlined.

On the development status of high performance silicon pore optics for future x-ray telescopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kraft, Stefan; Collon, M.; Günther, R.; Partapsing, R.; Beijersbergen, M.; Bavdaz, M.; Lumb, D.; Peacock, A.; Wallace, K.

2017-11-01

Silicon pore optics have been proposed earlier as modular optical X-ray units in large Wolter-I telescopes that would match effective area and resolution requirements imposed by missions such as XEUS. Since then the optics have been developed further and the feasibility of the production of high-performance pore optics has been demonstrated. Optimisation of both the production and the assembly process allowed the generation of optics with larger areas with improved imaging performance. Silicon pore optics can now be manufactured with properties required for future X-ray telescopes. A suitable design that allows the implementation of pore optics into X-ray Optical Units in Wolter-I configuration was recently derived including an appropriate telescope mounting structure with interfaces for the individual components. The development status, the achieved performance and the requirements regarding future mirror production, optics assembly and related metrology for its characterisation are presented.

Engineering development of selective agglomeration: Task 5, Bench- scale process testing

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

Not Available

1991-09-01

Under the overall objectives of DOE Contract ``Engineering Development of Selective Agglomeration,`` there were a number of specific objectives in the Task 5 program. The prime objectives of Task 5 are highlighted below: (1) Maximize process performance in pyritic sulfur rejection and BTU recovery, (2) Produce a low ash product, (3) Compare the performance of the heavy agglomerant process based on diesel and the light agglomerant process using heptane, (4) Define optimum processing conditions for engineering design, (5) Provide first-level evaluation of product handleability, and (6) Explore and investigate process options/ideas which may enhance process performance and/or product handleability.

Engineering development of selective agglomeration: Task 5, Bench- scale process testing

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

Not Available

1991-09-01

Under the overall objectives of DOE Contract Engineering Development of Selective Agglomeration,'' there were a number of specific objectives in the Task 5 program. The prime objectives of Task 5 are highlighted below: (1) Maximize process performance in pyritic sulfur rejection and BTU recovery, (2) Produce a low ash product, (3) Compare the performance of the heavy agglomerant process based on diesel and the light agglomerant process using heptane, (4) Define optimum processing conditions for engineering design, (5) Provide first-level evaluation of product handleability, and (6) Explore and investigate process options/ideas which may enhance process performance and/or product handleability.

15 CFR 16.2 - Description and goal of program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... standardized test methods by which selected product performance characteristics can be measured; (2) Developing... voluntarily to test and label their products according to the selected or developed methods; and (4...

15 CFR 16.2 - Description and goal of program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... standardized test methods by which selected product performance characteristics can be measured; (2) Developing... voluntarily to test and label their products according to the selected or developed methods; and (4...

15 CFR 16.2 - Description and goal of program.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... standardized test methods by which selected product performance characteristics can be measured; (2) Developing... voluntarily to test and label their products according to the selected or developed methods; and (4...

Referral hospitals in the Democratic Republic of Congo as complex adaptive systems: similar program, different dynamics.

PubMed

Karemere, Hermès; Ribesse, Nathalie; Kahindo, Jean-Bosco; Macq, Jean

2015-01-01

In many African countries, first referral hospitals received little attention from development agencies until recently. We report the evolution of two of them in an unstable region like Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo when receiving the support from development aid program. Specifically, we aimed at studying how actors' network and institutional framework evolved over time and what could matter the most when looking at their performance in such an environment. We performed two cases studies between 2006 and 2010. We used multiple sources of data: reports to document events; health information system for hospital services production, and "key-informants" interviews to interpret the relation between interventions and services production. Our analysis was inspired from complex adaptive system theory. It started from the analysis of events implementation, to explore interaction process between the main agents in each hospital, and the consequence it could have on hospital health services production. This led to the development of new theoretical propositions. Two events implemented in the frame of the development aid program were identified by most of the key-informants interviewed as having the greatest impact on hospital performance: the development of a hospital plan and the performance based financing. They resulted in contrasting interaction process between the main agents between the two hospitals. Two groups of services production were reviewed: consultation at outpatient department and admissions, and surgery. The evolution of both groups of services production were different between both hospitals. By studying two first referral hospitals through the lens of a Complex Adaptive System, their performance in a context of development aid takes a different meaning. Success is not only measured through increased hospital production but through meaningful process of hospital agents'" network adaptation. Expected process is not necessarily a change; strengthened equilibrium and existing institutional arrangement may be a preferable result. Much more attention should be given in future international aid to the proper understanding of the hospital adaptation capacities.

Modeling of Karachaganak field development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadvakasov, A. A.; Shamsutdinova, G. F.; Almukhametova, E. M.; Gabdrakhmanov, N. Kh

2018-05-01

Management of a geological deposit includes the study and analysis of oil recovery, identification of factors influencing production performance and oil-bearing rock flooding, reserve recovery and other indicators characterizing field development in general. Regulation of oil deposits exploitation is a mere control over the fluid flow within a reservoir, which is ensured through the designed system of development via continuous improvement of production and injection wells placement, optimum performance modes, service conditions of downhole and surface oil-field equipment taking into account various changes and physical-geological properties of a field when using modern equipment to obtain the best performance indicators.

Assessing Technical Performance and Determining the Learning Curve in Cleft Palate Surgery Using a High-Fidelity Cleft Palate Simulator.

PubMed

Podolsky, Dale J; Fisher, David M; Wong Riff, Karen W; Szasz, Peter; Looi, Thomas; Drake, James M; Forrest, Christopher R

2018-06-01

This study assessed technical performance in cleft palate repair using a newly developed assessment tool and high-fidelity cleft palate simulator through a longitudinal simulation training exercise. Three residents performed five and one resident performed nine consecutive endoscopically recorded cleft palate repairs using a cleft palate simulator. Two fellows in pediatric plastic surgery and two expert cleft surgeons also performed recorded simulated repairs. The Cleft Palate Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skill (CLOSATS) and end-product scales were developed to assess performance. Two blinded cleft surgeons assessed the recordings and the final repairs using the CLOSATS, end-product scale, and a previously developed global rating scale. The average procedure-specific (CLOSATS), global rating, and end-product scores increased logarithmically after each successive simulation session for the residents. Reliability of the CLOSATS (average item intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), 0.85 ± 0.093) and global ratings (average item ICC, 0.91 ± 0.02) among the raters was high. Reliability of the end-product assessments was lower (average item ICC, 0.66 ± 0.15). Standard setting linear regression using an overall cutoff score of 7 of 10 corresponded to a pass score for the CLOSATS and the global score of 44 (maximum, 60) and 23 (maximum, 30), respectively. Using logarithmic best-fit curves, 6.3 simulation sessions are required to reach the minimum standard. A high-fidelity cleft palate simulator has been developed that improves technical performance in cleft palate repair. The simulator and technical assessment scores can be used to determine performance before operating on patients.

Current status and challenges for automotive battery production technologies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwade, Arno; Haselrieder, Wolfgang; Leithoff, Ruben; Modlinger, Armin; Dietrich, Franz; Droeder, Klaus

2018-04-01

Production technology for automotive lithium-ion battery (LIB) cells and packs has improved considerably in the past five years. However, the transfer of developments in materials, cell design and processes from lab scale to production scale remains a challenge due to the large number of consecutive process steps and the significant impact of material properties, electrode compositions and cell designs on processes. This requires an in-depth understanding of the individual production processes and their interactions, and pilot-scale investigations into process parameter selection and prototype cell production. Furthermore, emerging process concepts must be developed at lab and pilot scale that reduce production costs and improve cell performance. Here, we present an introductory summary of the state-of-the-art production technologies for automotive LIBs. We then discuss the key relationships between process, quality and performance, as well as explore the impact of materials and processes on scale and cost. Finally, future developments and innovations that aim to overcome the main challenges are presented.

lean-ISD.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wallace, Guy W.

2001-01-01

Explains lean instructional systems design/development (ISD) as it relates to curriculum architecture design, based on Japan's lean production system. Discusses performance-based systems; ISD models; processes for organizational training and development; curriculum architecture to support job performance; and modular curriculum development. (LRW)

Impact of In-Service Training and Staff Development on Workers' Job Performance and Optimal Productivity in Public Secondary Schools in Osun State, Nigeria

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fejoh, Johnson; Faniran, Victoria Loveth

2016-01-01

This study investigated the impact of in-service training and staff development on workers' job performance and optimal productivity in public secondary schools in Osun State, Nigeria. The study used the ex-post-facto research design. Three research questions and three hypotheses were generated and tested using questionnaire items adapted from…

Environmental impact studies for gas hydrate production test in the Ulleung Basin, East Sea of Korea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryu, Byong-Jae

2017-04-01

To develop potential future energy resources, the Korean National Gas Hydrate Program has been carried out since 2005. The program has been supported by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy (MOTIE), and carried out by the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM), the Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS) and the Korea National Oil Corporation (KNOC) under the management of Gas Hydrate R&D Organization (GHDO). As a part of this national program, geophysical surveys, geological studies on gas hydrates and two deep drilling expeditions were performed. Gas hydrate-bearing sand layers suitable for production using current technologies were found during the Second Ulleung Basin Gas Hydrate Drilling Expedition (UBGH2) in 2010. Environmental impact studies (EIS) also have been carried out since 2012 by KIGAM in cooperation with domestic and foreign universities and research organizations to ensure safe production test that will be performed in near future. The schedule of production test is being planned. The EIS includes assessment of environmental risks, examination on domestic environmental laws related with production test, collection of basic oceanographic information, and baseline and monitoring surveys. Oceanographic information and domestic environmental laws are already collected and analyzed. Baseline survey has been performed using the in-house developed system, KIGAM Seafloor Observation System (KISOS) since 2013. It will also be performed. R/V TAMHAE II of KIGAM used for KISOS operation. As a part of this EIS, pseudo-3D Chirp survey also was carried out in 2014 to determine the development of fault near the potential testing site. Using KIGAM Seafloor Monitoring System (KIMOS), monitoring survey is planned to be performed from three month before production test to three months after production test. The geophysical survey for determining the change of gas hydrate reservoirs and production-efficiency around the production well would also be conducted before and after the production test. KIMOS will be developed as the planning that was drawn up already. A period for monitoring survey and geophysical survey type, such as AUV or EM surveys will be decided according to the budget.

Variations in productivity and performance in grade lumber industries in Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia-1982

Treesearch

Gilbert P. Dempsey; Gilbert P. Dempsey

1987-01-01

Sawmill effectiveness is crucial to the growth and development of wood industries among locales, states, regions, and countries. Productivity ratios, structural factors, and other indicators of economic performance were used to measure the relative productive efficiency of the grade hardwood lumber industries in Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Despite...

Personal Skills, Job Satisfaction, and Productivity in Members of High Performance Teams

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Valdes-Flores, Patricia; Campos-Rodriguez, Javier Arturo

2008-01-01

The intention of the study is to identify the development of personal skills, as well as the increase of job satisfaction and productivity of the employee, as a result of their participation in high performance teams. Volunteered in the study 139 members of self-managed teams belonging to the Production Area, 39 of Operational Administrative…

Performance evaluation of the croissant production line with reparable machines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tsarouhas, Panagiotis H.

2015-03-01

In this study, the analytical probability models for an automated serial production system, bufferless that consists of n-machines in series with common transfer mechanism and control system was developed. Both time to failure and time to repair a failure are assumed to follow exponential distribution. Applying those models, the effect of system parameters on system performance in actual croissant production line was studied. The production line consists of six workstations with different numbers of reparable machines in series. Mathematical models of the croissant production line have been developed using Markov process. The strength of this study is in the classification of the whole system in states, representing failures of different machines. Failure and repair data from the actual production environment have been used to estimate reliability and maintainability for each machine, workstation, and the entire line is based on analytical models. The analysis provides a useful insight into the system's behaviour, helps to find design inherent faults and suggests optimal modifications to upgrade the system and improve its performance.

SMART empirical approaches for predicting field performance of PV modules from results of reliability tests

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hardikar, Kedar Y.; Liu, Bill J. J.; Bheemreddy, Venkata

2016-09-01

Gaining an understanding of degradation mechanisms and their characterization are critical in developing relevant accelerated tests to ensure PV module performance warranty over a typical lifetime of 25 years. As newer technologies are adapted for PV, including new PV cell technologies, new packaging materials, and newer product designs, the availability of field data over extended periods of time for product performance assessment cannot be expected within the typical timeframe for business decisions. In this work, to enable product design decisions and product performance assessment for PV modules utilizing newer technologies, Simulation and Mechanism based Accelerated Reliability Testing (SMART) methodology and empirical approaches to predict field performance from accelerated test results are presented. The method is demonstrated for field life assessment of flexible PV modules based on degradation mechanisms observed in two accelerated tests, namely, Damp Heat and Thermal Cycling. The method is based on design of accelerated testing scheme with the intent to develop relevant acceleration factor models. The acceleration factor model is validated by extensive reliability testing under different conditions going beyond the established certification standards. Once the acceleration factor model is validated for the test matrix a modeling scheme is developed to predict field performance from results of accelerated testing for particular failure modes of interest. Further refinement of the model can continue as more field data becomes available. While the demonstration of the method in this work is for thin film flexible PV modules, the framework and methodology can be adapted to other PV products.

Heart of the Hearth: Making the Popular Clean, Not the Clean Popular - Technology Research, Development, and Tools for Clean Biomass Cookstoves

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

Gist, Ryan

This technical report summarizes the work completed by BioLite in fulfilment of the US DOE EERE award. The work plan focused on three key objectives: developing an optimized combustion system that demonstrates high combustion efficiency and low PM 2.5 and CO emissions, integrate the system into popular stove phenotypes – side-fed rocket stove architecture like the BioLite HomeStove, and the Patsari chimney stove in Mexico such that they maintain their important phenotypical characteristics, independently evaluate quantitative fuel and emissions performance of the integrated ‘Turbo-Patsari’ in Mexican households. The project activities were organized into six major tasks: A. Develop, fabricate, andmore » test proof-of-concept prototypes B. Develop field prototypes, assess user feedback and field performance C. Define revised stove design for pre-production model, Identify manufacturing requirements and estimated cost to build, Conduct reliability, emissions, and performance testing of pre-production Turbo-Patsari D. Build pre-production Turbo-Patsari stove combustion cores E. Conduct pre-production field trials F. Summarize field trial results and evaluate Turbo-Patsari for potential volume production. A two-pronged approach was adopted for the above tasks. The first involved building a modular test platform that allowed parametric variation of multiple stove design parameters that directly affect its performance – heat output, thermal efficiency, and emissions. The second part of the approach comprised of building a surrogate Patsari based on GIRA’s specifications that could then be modified or retrofitted for optimum performance based on the learnings from the modular test platform. The following sections of the report will describe the findings of tests on these platform, the subsequent development, design, and installation of the Turbo-Patsari, and finally the in-home field trial.« less

Government and industry interactions in the development of clock technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hellwig, H.

1981-01-01

It appears likely that everyone in the time and frequency community can agree on goals to be realized through the expenditure of resources. These goals are the same as found in most fields of technology: lower cost, better performance, increased reliability, small size and lower power. Related aspects are examined in the process of clock and frequency standard development. Government and industry are reviewed in a highly interactive role. These interactions include judgements on clock performance, what kind of clock, expenditure of resources, transfer of ideas or hardware concepts from government to industry, and control of production. Successful clock development and production requires a government/industry relationship which is characterized by long-term continuity, multidisciplinary team work, focused funding and a separation of reliability and production oriented tasks from performance improvement/research type efforts.

Development of High Toughness Sheet and Extruded Products for Airplane Fuselage Structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magnusen, P. E.; Mooy, D. C.; Yocum, L. A.; Rioja, R. J.

High specific ultimate strength and high plane stress fracture toughness are primary requirements of aircraft fuselage skins. The performance of alloys/products used in high performance fuselage applications is first reviewed. The specific fracture toughness for products such as 2017-T3, 2024-T3, 2524-T3 and 6013-T6, is discussed as a function of their composition and microstructure. Then the performance of modern Al-Li alloys/products such as 2199 and 2060 sheet and 2099 and 2055 extrusions is examined. It is concluded that the performance of Li containing alloys/products offer significant improvements over non-Li containing conventional fuselage products because of the optimization of strengthening precipitates and grain microstructures. The role of chemical composition on resulting microstructures is discussed.

Developing an Emergency Physician Productivity Index Using Descriptive Health Analytics.

PubMed

Khalifa, Mohamed

2015-01-01

Emergency department (ED) crowding became a major barrier to receiving timely emergency care. At King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Saudi Arabia, we identified variables and factors affecting crowding and performance to develop indicators to help evaluation and improvement. Measuring efficiency of work and activity of throughput processes; it was important to develop an ED physician productivity index. Data on all ED patients' encounters over the last six months of 2014 were retrieved and descriptive health analytics methods were used. Three variables were identified for their influence on productivity and performance; Number of Treated Patients per Physician, Patient Acuity Level and Treatment Time. The study suggested a formula to calculate the productivity index of each physician through dividing the Number of Treated Patients by Patient Acuity Level squared and Treatment Time to identify physicians with low productivity index and investigate causes and factors.

Latest performance of ArF immersion scanner NSR-S630D for high-volume manufacturing for 7nm node

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Funatsu, Takayuki; Uehara, Yusaku; Hikida, Yujiro; Hayakawa, Akira; Ishiyama, Satoshi; Hirayama, Toru; Kono, Hirotaka; Shirata, Yosuke; Shibazaki, Yuichi

2015-03-01

In order to achieve stable operation in cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing, Nikon has developed NSR-S630D with extremely accurate overlay while maintaining throughput in various conditions resembling a real production environment. In addition, NSR-S630D has been equipped with enhanced capabilities to maintain long-term overlay stability and user interface improvement all due to our newly developed application software platform. In this paper, we describe the most recent S630D performance in various conditions similar to real productions. In a production environment, superior overlay accuracy with high dose conditions and high throughput are often required; therefore, we have performed several experiments with high dose conditions to demonstrate NSR's thermal aberration capabilities in order to achieve world class overlay performance. Furthermore, we will introduce our new software that enables long term overlay performance.

48 CFR 42.302 - Contract administration functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... delivery schedules. (32) Perform preaward surveys (see Subpart 9.1). (33) Advise and assist contractors... performance in the areas of design, development, and production. (41) Evaluate for adequacy and perform surveillance of contractor engineering efforts and management systems that relate to design, development...

Navigating sticky areas in transdermal product development.

PubMed

Strasinger, Caroline; Raney, Sam G; Tran, Doanh C; Ghosh, Priyanka; Newman, Bryan; Bashaw, Edward D; Ghosh, Tapash; Shukla, Chinmay G

2016-07-10

The benefits of transdermal delivery over the oral route to combat such issues of low bioavailability and limited controlled release opportunities are well known and have been previously discussed by many in the field (Prausnitz et al. (2004) [1]; Hadgraft and Lane (2006) [2]). However, significant challenges faced by developers as a product moves from the purely theoretical to commercial production have hampered full capitalization of the dosage forms vast benefits. While different technical aspects of transdermal system development have been discussed at various industry meetings and scientific workshops, uncertainties have persisted regarding the pharmaceutical industry's conventionally accepted approach for the development and manufacturing of transdermal systems. This review provides an overview of the challenges frequently faced and the industry's best practices for assuring the quality and performance of transdermal delivery systems and topical patches (collectively, TDS). The topics discussed are broadly divided into the evaluation of product quality and the evaluation of product performance; with the overall goal of the discussion to improve, advance and accelerate commercial development in the area of this complex controlled release dosage form. Published by Elsevier B.V.

KF-loaded mesoporous Mg-Fe bi-metal oxides: high performance transesterification catalysts for biodiesel production.

PubMed

Tao, Guiju; Hua, Zile; Gao, Zhe; Zhu, Yan; Zhu, Yan; Chen, Yu; Shu, Zhu; Zhang, Lingxia; Shi, Jianlin

2013-09-21

Using newly developed mesoporous Mg-Fe bi-metal oxides as supports, a novel kind of high performance transesterification catalysts for biodiesel production has been synthesized. More importantly, the impregnation solvent was for the first time found to substantially affect the structures and catalytic performances of the resultant transesterification catalysts.

Developing Molecular Genetic Tools to Facilitate Economic Production in Green Algae

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-10

Economic Production in Green Algae FA9550-10-1-0052 Georgianna, David, R Gimpel, Javier Hannon, Michael, J Mayfield, Stephen, P Prof. Stephen...Final Performance Report Project Title: Developing Molecular Genetic Tools to Facilitate Economic Production in Green Algae Award Number... ECONOMIC PRODUCTION IN GREEN ALGAE ABSTRACT It is now accepted that algae have enormous potential to generate economically viable and

Root production method system

Treesearch

Wayne Lovelace

2002-01-01

The RPM system (Root Production Method) is a multistep production system of container tree production that places primary emphasis on the root system because the root system ultimately determines the tree's survival and performance in its outplanted environment. This particular container production system has been developed to facilitate volume production, in a...

Developing a new production host from a blueprint: Bacillus pumilus as an industrial enzyme producer.

PubMed

Küppers, Tobias; Steffen, Victoria; Hellmuth, Hendrik; O'Connell, Timothy; Bongaerts, Johannes; Maurer, Karl-Heinz; Wiechert, Wolfgang

2014-03-24

Since volatile and rising cost factors such as energy, raw materials and market competitiveness have a significant impact on the economic efficiency of biotechnological bulk productions, industrial processes need to be steadily improved and optimized. Thereby the current production hosts can undergo various limitations. To overcome those limitations and in addition increase the diversity of available production hosts for future applications, we suggest a Production Strain Blueprinting (PSB) strategy to develop new production systems in a reduced time lapse in contrast to a development from scratch.To demonstrate this approach, Bacillus pumilus has been developed as an alternative expression platform for the production of alkaline enzymes in reference to the established industrial production host Bacillus licheniformis. To develop the selected B. pumilus as an alternative production host the suggested PSB strategy was applied proceeding in the following steps (dedicated product titers are scaled to the protease titer of Henkel's industrial production strain B. licheniformis at lab scale): Introduction of a protease production plasmid, adaptation of a protease production process (44%), process optimization (92%) and expression optimization (114%). To further evaluate the production capability of the developed B. pumilus platform, the target protease was substituted by an α-amylase. The expression performance was tested under the previously optimized protease process conditions and under subsequently adapted process conditions resulting in a maximum product titer of 65% in reference to B. licheniformis protease titer. In this contribution the applied PSB strategy performed very well for the development of B. pumilus as an alternative production strain. Thereby the engineered B. pumilus expression platform even exceeded the protease titer of the industrial production host B. licheniformis by 14%. This result exhibits a remarkable potential of B. pumilus to be the basis for a next generation production host, since the strain has still a large potential for further genetic engineering. The final amylase titer of 65% in reference to B. licheniformis protease titer suggests that the developed B. pumilus expression platform is also suitable for an efficient production of non-proteolytic enzymes reaching a final titer of several grams per liter without complex process modifications.

The Role of Research in Making Interactive Products Effective.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rossi, Robert J.

1986-01-01

Argues that research and development (R&D) methods should be utilized to develop new technologies for training and retailing and describes useful research tools--critical incident methodology, task analysis, performance recording. Discussion covers R&D applications to interactive systems development in the areas of product need, customer…

SAO mission support software and data standards, version 1.0

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hsieh, P.

1993-01-01

This document defines the software developed by the SAO AXAF Mission Support (MS) Program and defines standards for the software development process and control of data products generated by the software. The SAO MS is tasked to develop and use software to perform a variety of functions in support of the AXAF mission. Software is developed by software engineers and scientists, and commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software is used either directly or customized through the use of scripts to implement analysis procedures. Software controls real-time laboratory instruments, performs data archiving, displays data, and generates model predictions. Much software is used in the analysis of data to generate data products that are required by the AXAF project, for example, on-orbit mirror performance predictions or detailed characterization of the mirror reflection performance with energy.

Integrated Application of Quality-by-Design Principles to Drug Product Development: A Case Study of Brivanib Alaninate Film-Coated Tablets.

PubMed

Badawy, Sherif I F; Narang, Ajit S; LaMarche, Keirnan R; Subramanian, Ganeshkumar A; Varia, Sailesh A; Lin, Judy; Stevens, Tim; Shah, Pankaj A

2016-01-01

Modern drug product development is expected to follow quality-by-design (QbD) paradigm. At the same time, although there are several issue-specific examples in the literature that demonstrate the application of QbD principles, a holistic demonstration of the application of QbD principles to drug product development and control strategy, is lacking. This article provides an integrated case study on the systematic application of QbD to product development and demonstrates the implementation of QbD concepts in the different aspects of product and process design for brivanib alaninate film-coated tablets. Using a risk-based approach, the strategy for development entailed identification of product critical quality attributes (CQAs), assessment of risks to the CQAs, and performing experiments to understand and mitigate identified risks. Quality risk assessments and design of experiments were performed to understand the quality of the input raw materials required for a robust formulation and the impact of manufacturing process parameters on CQAs. In addition to the material property and process parameter controls, the proposed control strategy includes use of process analytical technology and conventional analytical tests to control in-process material attributes and ensure quality of the final product. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Development of field performance evaluation tools and program for pavement marking materials : technical report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-03-01

Historically the prequalification or selection of pavement marking materials (PMMs) is mainly based on : product specifications and lab testing, which do not correlate well with the field performance of the products. : On the other hand, there is no ...

Agricultural production and nutrient runoff in the Corn Belt ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

Agricultural production in the Corn Belt region of the Upper Mississippi River Basin (UMRB) remains a leading source of nitrogen runoff that contributes to the annual hypoxic 'Dead Zone' in the Gulf of Mexico. The rise of corn production, land conversion, and fertilizer use in response to ethanol policy incentives in recent years is well documented and may worsen this effect. We develop a spatially distributed dynamic environmental performance index (EPI), accounting for both desirable agricultural outputs and undesirable nonpoint source emissions from farm production, to examine the corresponding changes in environmental performance within the UMRB between 2002 and 2007, which is characterized by increasing policy incentives for ethanol production. County-level production data from the USDA agricultural census are aggregated to hydrologic unit code (HUC8) boundaries using a geographic information system (GIS), and a previously developed statistical model, which includes net anthropogenic nitrogen inputs (NANI) as well as precipitation and land use characteristics as inputs, is used to estimate annual nitrogen loadings delivered to streams from HUC8 watersheds. The EPI allows us to decompose performance of each HUC8 region over time into changes in productive efficiency and emissions efficiency. To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the corresponding changes in environmental performance for producers in this region at the watershed scale. The resu

Breakthrough: Better Fiber for Better Products

ScienceCinema

Griffith, George; Garnier, John

2018-01-08

Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have developed a cost-effective method for the continuous production of alpha silicon carbide fiber. The exceptionally strong, lightweight fiber could enable significant performance improvements in many everyday products.

Mediating effect of sustainable product development on relationship between quality management practices and organizational performance: Empirical study of Malaysian automotive industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmad, Mohd Akhir; Asaad, Mohd Norhasni; Saad, Rohaizah; Iteng, Rosman; Rahim, Mohd Kamarul Irwan Abdul

2016-08-01

Global competition in the automotive industry has encouraged companies to implement quality management practices in all managerial aspects to ensure customer satisfaction in products and reduce costs. Therefore, guaranteeing only product quality is insufficient without considering product sustainability, which involves economic, environment, and social elements. Companies that meet both objectives gain advantages in the modern business environment. This study addresses the issues regarding product quality and sustainability in small and medium-sized enterprises in the Malaysian automotive industry. A research was carried out in 91 SMEs automotive suppliers in throughout Malaysia. The analyzed using SPSS ver.23 has been proposed in correlation study. Specifically, this study investigates the relationship between quality management practices and organizational performance as well as the mediating effect of sustainable product development on this relationship.

Fetal programming in meat production.

PubMed

Du, Min; Wang, Bo; Fu, Xing; Yang, Qiyuan; Zhu, Mei-Jun

2015-11-01

Nutrient fluctuations during the fetal stage affects fetal development, which has long-term impacts on the production efficiency and quality of meat. During the early development, a pool of mesenchymal progenitor cells proliferate and then diverge into either myogenic or adipogenic/fibrogenic lineages. Myogenic progenitor cells further develop into muscle fibers and satellite cells, while adipogenic/fibrogenic lineage cells develop into adipocytes, fibroblasts and resident fibro-adipogenic progenitor cells. Enhancing the proliferation and myogenic commitment of progenitor cells during fetal development enhances muscle growth and lean production in offspring. On the other hand, promoting the adipogenic differentiation of adipogenic/fibrogenic progenitor cells inside the muscle increases intramuscular adipocytes and reduces connective tissue, which improves meat marbling and tenderness. Available studies in mammalian livestock, including cattle, sheep and pigs, clearly show the link between maternal nutrition and the quantity and quality of meat production. Similarly, chicken muscle fibers develop before hatching and, thus, egg and yolk sizes and hatching temperature affect long-term growth performance and meat production of chicken. On the contrary, because fishes are able to generate new muscle fibers lifelong, the impact of early nutrition on fish growth performance is expected to be minor, which requires further studies. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Using Android-Based Educational Game for Learning Colloid Material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sari, S.; Anjani, R.; Farida, I.; Ramdhani, M. A.

2017-09-01

This research is based on the importance of the development of student’s chemical literacy on Colloid material using Android-based educational game media. Educational game products are developed through research and development design. In the analysis phase, material analysis is performed to generate concept maps, determine chemical literacy indicators, game strategies and set game paths. In the design phase, product packaging is carried out, then validation and feasibility test are performed. Research produces educational game based on Android that has the characteristics that is: Colloid material presented in 12 levels of game in the form of questions and challenges, presents visualization of discourse, images and animation contextually to develop the process of thinking and attitude. Based on the analysis of validation and trial results, the product is considered feasible to use.

Forest products research and development organizations in a worldwide setting: A review of structure, governance, and measures of performance of organizations outside the United States

Treesearch

Paul V. Ellefson; Michael A. Kilgore; Kenneth E. Skog; Christopher D. Risbrudt

2007-01-01

Located in 23 countries, 40 forest-products research and development organizations outside the United States were reviewed in 2004 and 2005. The intent was to obtain a better understanding of how such organizations are structured and administered and their performance judged. Investing over $600 million annually, the 40 organizations employed 7,000 to 7,500 scientists...

Early Benchmarks of Product Generation Capabilities of the GOES-R Ground System for Operational Weather Prediction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalluri, S. N.; Haman, B.; Vititoe, D.

2014-12-01

The ground system under development for Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-R (GOES-R) series of weather satellite has completed a key milestone in implementing the science algorithms that process raw sensor data to higher level products in preparation for launch. Real time observations from GOES-R are expected to make significant contributions to Earth and space weather prediction, and there are stringent requirements to product weather products at very low latency to meet NOAA's operational needs. Simulated test data from all the six GOES-R sensors are being processed by the system to test and verify performance of the fielded system. Early results show that the system development is on track to meet functional and performance requirements to process science data. Comparison of science products generated by the ground system from simulated data with those generated by the algorithm developers show close agreement among data sets which demonstrates that the algorithms are implemented correctly. Successful delivery of products to AWIPS and the Product Distribution and Access (PDA) system from the core system demonstrate that the external interfaces are working.

SEPARATION AND QUANTITATION OF NITROBENZENES AND THEIR REDUCTION PRODUCTS NITROANILINES AND PHENYLENEDIAMINES BY REVERSED=PHASE HIGH-PERFORMANCE LIQUID CHROMATOGRAPHY

EPA Science Inventory

A reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the separation and quantitation of a mixture consisting of nitrobenzene, dinitrobenzene isomers, 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene and their reduction products: aniline, nitroanilines and phenylenediamines has been developed...

The Lhc Cryomagnet Supports in Glass-Fiber Reinforced Epoxy: a Large Scale Industrial Production with High Reproducibility in Performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poncet, A.; Struik, M.; Trigo, J.; Parma, V.

2008-03-01

The about 1700 LHC main ring super-conducting magnets are supported within their cryostats on 4700 low heat in leak column-type supports. The supports were designed to ensure a precise and stable positioning of the heavy dipole and quadrupole magnets while keeping thermal conduction heat loads within budget. A trade-off between mechanical and thermal properties, as well as cost considerations, led to the choice of glass fibre reinforced epoxy (GFRE). Resin Transfer Moulding (RTM), featuring a high level of automation and control, was the manufacturing process retained to ensure the reproducibility of the performance of the supports throughout the large production. The Spanish aerospace company EADS-CASA Espacio developed the specific RTM process, and produced the total quantity of supports between 2001 and 2004. This paper describes the development and the production of the supports, and presents the production experience and the achieved performance.

Development of high-performance blended cements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Zichao

2000-10-01

This thesis presents the development of high-performance blended cements from industrial by-products. To overcome the low-early strength of blended cements, several chemicals were studied as the activators for cement hydration. Sodium sulfate was discovered as the best activator. The blending proportions were optimized by Taguchi experimental design. The optimized blended cements containing up to 80% fly ash performed better than Type I cement in strength development and durability. Maintaining a constant cement content, concrete produced from the optimized blended cements had equal or higher strength and higher durability than that produced from Type I cement alone. The key for the activation mechanism was the reaction between added SO4 2- and Ca2+ dissolved from cement hydration products.

30 CFR 282.20 - Obligations and responsibilities of lessees.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... the approved Delineation, Testing, or Mining Plans; and other written or oral orders or instructions issued by the Director when performing exploration, testing, development, and production activities..., testing, development, and production operations on the lease available to the Director for examination and...

Developing a modified preservative efficacy testing approach as a predictive tool for the evaluation of preservative systems in liquid home care products under variable test conditions.

PubMed

Hoyt, Anne L; Bushman, Don; Lewis, Nathan; Faber, Robert

2012-01-01

How can a formulator have confidence that a preservative system will perform as expected under adverse conditions? Extreme conditions that can lead to the development of "off odors" in the product can be a serious challenge for companies providing home care products in the global market. Formulation and stability testing occur under controlled parameters that simulate limited environmental conditions and microbial challenges are typically performed with a standard inoculum level. While this is an acceptable and dependable process, it does not necessarily assess how well a preservative system can perform under extreme environmental conditions or against unusually high levels of bacterial challenges. This is especially true when formulations are diluted and stored by the end-user. By modifying microbial challenge testing of a liquid dishwashing product to include unexpected dilution schemes, increased microbial assaults, and elevated temperatures, a pattern of preservative efficacy was established. The resulting approach proved to be a useful tool when developing use directions, recommended dilution levels, the overall surfactant system, preservative type, and storage restrictions.

On the Performance Potential of Bioelectrochemical Life Support Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mansell, J. Matthew

2013-01-01

An area of growing multi-disciplinary research and revolutionary development for bio-processing on Earth is bioelectrochemical systems. These systems exploit the capability of many microorganisms to act as biocatalysts, enhancing the performance of electrochemical processes which convert low-value materials into valuable products. Many varieties of such processes hold potential value for space exploration as means to recycle metabolic waste and other undesirable materials or insitu resources into oxygen, water, and other valuable substances. However, the wide range of possible reactants, products, configurations, and operating parameters, along with the early stage of development and application on the ground necessitate thorough consideration of which, if any, possibilities could outperform existing technologies and should thus receive investment for space applications. In turn, the decision depends on the theoretical and practical limits of performance and the value of the reactant-product conversions within spaceflight scenarios, and should, to the greatest extent possible, be examined from the perspective of a fully designed, integrated system, rather than as an isolated unit lacking critical components like valves and pumps. Herein, we select a series of possible reactant-product conversions, develop concept process flow diagrams for each, and estimate theoretical and (where sufficient literature data allows) practical performance limitations of each. The objective was to estimate the costs, benefits, and risks of each concept in order to aid strategic decisions in the early-phase technology development effort.

Status of molten carbonate fuel cell technology development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parsons, E. L., Jr.; Williams, M. C.; George, T. J.

The MCFC technology has been identified by the DOE as a promising product for commercialization. Development of the MCFC technology supports the National Energy Strategy. Review of the status of the MCFC technology indicates that the MCFC technology developers are making rapid and significant progress. Manufacturing facility development and extensive testing is occurring. Improvements in performance (power density), lower costs, improved packaging, and scale up to full height are planned. MCFC developers need to continue to be responsive to end-users in potential markets. It will be market demands for the correct product definition which will ultimately determine the character of MCFC power plants. There is a need for continued MCFC product improvement and multiple product development tests.

A Framework for the Development of Automatic DFA Method to Minimize the Number of Components and Assembly Reorientations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alfadhlani; Samadhi, T. M. A. Ari; Ma’ruf, Anas; Setiasyah Toha, Isa

2018-03-01

Assembly is a part of manufacturing processes that must be considered at the product design stage. Design for Assembly (DFA) is a method to evaluate product design in order to make it simpler, easier and quicker to assemble, so that assembly cost is reduced. This article discusses a framework for developing a computer-based DFA method. The method is expected to aid product designer to extract data, evaluate assembly process, and provide recommendation for the product design improvement. These three things are desirable to be performed without interactive process or user intervention, so product design evaluation process could be done automatically. Input for the proposed framework is a 3D solid engineering drawing. Product design evaluation is performed by: minimizing the number of components; generating assembly sequence alternatives; selecting the best assembly sequence based on the minimum number of assembly reorientations; and providing suggestion for design improvement.

OPTIMIZATION OF DEEP DRILLING PERFORMANCE--DEVELOPMENT AND BENCHMARK TESTING OF ADVANCED DIAMOND PRODUCT DRILL BITS & HP/HT FLUIDS TO SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVE RATES OF PENETRATION

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

Alan Black; Arnis Judzis

2004-10-01

The industry cost shared program aims to benchmark drilling rates of penetration in selected simulated deep formations and to significantly improve ROP through a team development of aggressive diamond product drill bit--fluid system technologies. Overall the objectives are as follows: Phase 1--Benchmark ''best in class'' diamond and other product drilling bits and fluids and develop concepts for a next level of deep drilling performance; Phase 2--Develop advanced smart bit-fluid prototypes and test at large scale; and Phase 3--Field trial smart bit-fluid concepts, modify as necessary and commercialize products. As of report date, TerraTek has concluded all major preparations for themore » high pressure drilling campaign. Baker Hughes encountered difficulties in providing additional pumping capacity before TerraTek's scheduled relocation to another facility, thus the program was delayed further to accommodate the full testing program.« less

Advances in high-performance cryocoolers and production variants at Raytheon Infrared Operations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ross, Bradley A.; Black, Stephen H.

2001-10-01

Raytheon has consolidated the products and expertise of the former Hughes Mahwah (Magnavox) and Torrance cryocooler operations to the Raytheon Infrared Operations (RIO) located in Goleta, CA (formerly SBRC). Co-location of the cryocooler operations with the detector/dewar operations yields infrared systems with reduced cost. This paper describes the current capabilities of the linear and rotary cryocooler products as well as developments underway and planned. Development goals include cost reduction, high performance while operating in extreme environmental conditions (> 90°C skin temperatures), and long life (> 20,000 hrs). Technologies developed by a Raytheon sister division for space cryocoolers are now being applied to tactical cryocoolers at RIO. Data, specifications, and a technology roadmap for the product-line cryocoolers encompassing cooling capacities including 0.2-, 0.35-, 0.75-, 1.0- and 1.75-watt ranges will be shown.

Development of Production-Intent Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle Using Advanced Lithium-Ion Battery Packs with Deployment to a Demonstration Fleet

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

No, author

2013-09-29

The primary goal of this project was to speed the development of one of the first commercially available, OEM-produced plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV). The performance of the PHEV was expected to double the fuel economy of the conventional hybrid version. This vehicle program incorporated a number of advanced technologies, including advanced lithium-ion battery packs and an E85-capable flex-fuel engine. The project developed, fully integrated, and validated plug-in specific systems and controls by using GM’s Global Vehicle Development Process (GVDP) for production vehicles. Engineering Development related activities included the build of mule vehicles and integration vehicles for Phases I &more » II of the project. Performance data for these vehicles was shared with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The deployment of many of these vehicles was restricted to internal use at GM sites or restricted to assigned GM drivers. Phase III of the project captured the first half or Alpha phase of the Engineering tasks for the development of a new thermal management design for a second generation battery module. The project spanned five years. It included six on-site technical reviews with representatives from the DOE. One unique aspect of the GM/DOE collaborative project was the involvement of the DOE throughout the OEM vehicle development process. The DOE gained an understanding of how an OEM develops vehicle efficiency and FE performance, while balancing many other vehicle performance attributes to provide customers well balanced and fuel efficient vehicles that are exciting to drive. Many vehicle content and performance trade-offs were encountered throughout the vehicle development process to achieve product cost and performance targets for both the OEM and end customer. The project team completed two sets of PHEV development vehicles with fully integrated PHEV systems. Over 50 development vehicles were built and operated for over 180,000 development miles. The team also completed four GM engineering development Buy-Off rides/milestones. The project included numerous engineering vehicle and systems development trips including extreme hot, cold and altitude exposure. The final fuel economy performance demonstrated met the objectives of the PHEV collaborative GM/DOE project. Charge depletion fuel economy of twice that of the non-PHEV model was demonstrated. The project team also designed, developed and tested a high voltage battery module concept that appears to be feasible from a manufacturability, cost and performance standpoint. The project provided important product development and knowledge as well as technological learnings and advancements that include multiple U.S. patent applications.« less

Energetic costs of performance in trained and untrained Anolis carolinensis lizards.

PubMed

Lailvaux, Simon P; Wang, Andrew Z; Husak, Jerry F

2018-04-23

The energetic costs of performance constitute a non-trivial component of animals' daily energetic budgets. However, we currently lack an understanding of how those costs are partitioned among the various stages of performance development, maintenance and production. We manipulated individual investment in performance by training Anolis carolinensis lizards for endurance or sprinting ability. We then measured energetic expenditure both at rest and immediately following exercise to test whether such training alters the maintenance and production costs of performance. Trained lizards had lower resting metabolic rates than controls, suggestive of a maintenance saving associated with enhanced performance as opposed to a cost. Production costs also differed, with sprint-trained lizards incurring a larger energetic performance cost and experiencing longer recovery times compared with endurance trained and control animals. Although performance training modifies metabolism, production costs are probably the key drivers of trade-offs between performance and other life-history traits in this species. © 2018. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

The Reality of Virtual Reality Product Development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dever, Clark

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality are emerging areas of research and product development in enterprise companies. This talk will discuss industry standard tools and current areas of application in the commercial market. Attendees will gain insights into how to research, design, and (most importantly) ship, world class products. The presentation will recount the lessons learned to date developing a Virtual Reality tool to solve physics problems resulting from trying to perform aircraft maintenance on ships at sea.

Invention, design and performance of coconut agrowaste fiberboards for ecologically efficacious buildings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lokko, Mae-ling Jovenes

As global quantities of waste by-products from food production as well as the range of their applications increase, researchers are realizing critical opportunities to transform the burden of underutilized wastes into ecological profits. Within the tropical hot-humid region, where half the world's current and projected future population growth is concentrated, there is a dire demand for building materials to meet ambitious development schemes and rising housing deficits. However, the building sector has largely overlooked the potential of local agricultural wastes to serve as alternatives to energy-intensive, imported building technologies. Industrial ecologists have recently investigated the use of agrowaste biocomposites to replace conventional wood products that use harmful urea-formaldehyde, phenolic and isocyanate resins. Furthermore, developments in the performance of building material systems with respect to cost, energy, air quality management and construction innovation have evolved metrics about what constitutes material 'upcycling' within building life cycle. While these developments have largely been focused on technical and cost performance, much less attention has been paid to addressing deeply-seated social and cultural barriers to adoption that have sedimented over decades of importation. This dissertation evaluates the development coconut agricultural building material systems in four phases: (i) non-toxic, low-energy production of medium-high density boards (500-1200 kg/m3) from coconut fibers and emerging biobinders; (ii) characterization and evaluation of coconut agricultural building materials hygrothermal performance (iii) scaled-up design development of coconut modular building material systems and (iv) development of a value translation framework for the bottom-up distribution of value to stakeholders within the upcycling framework. This integrated design methodological approach is significant to develop ecological thinking around agrowaste building materials, influence social and cultural acceptability and create value translation frameworks that sufficiently characterize the composite value proposition of upcycled building systems.

Collaboration of chemistry instructional games and group investigation (Gi) model to improve learning outcome in high school students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Puspita, Ita; Sugiyarto, Kristian H.; Ikhsan, Jaslin

2017-05-01

The aims of this research are to: (1) develop chemistry instructional games on reaction rate matter; and (2) reveal the collaboration of chemistry instructional games and group investigation model to improvement learning outcome in high school student. This study is research and development (R&D). The procedure of developing product was adapted from Borg & Gall that modified into three principal steps: product planning, product developing, and product evaluating. The product planning step consist of field study, literature study, and manufacturing product. Product developing was developed product using Adobe Flash Professional CS 6 program. The last, product evaluating was performed by year XI of high school students, uses experimental methods nonequivalent control-group design by control class and experiment class. The results of this research show that: (1) a software of chemistry instructional games successfully developed using Adobe Flash Professional CS 6 and can be run on Android device; and (2) the test results of students showed that the collaboration of instructional games and group investigation model able to improvement learning outcome of hight school student.

DEVELOPMENT OF AN INNOVATIVE SPRAY DISPENSER TO REDUCE INDOOR AIR EMISSIONS FROM AEROSOL CONSUMER PRODUCTS

EPA Science Inventory

The report presents the operating principles and performance of a new type of spray nozzle. This nozzle, termed a "ligament-controlled effervescent atomizer," was developed to allow consumer product manufacturers to replace volatile organic compound (VOC) solvents with water, and...

Development and prospect of unmanned aerial vehicles for agricultural production management

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Unmanned aerial vehicles have been developed and applied to support agricultural production management. Compared to piloted aircrafts, an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) can focus on small crop fields in lower flight altitude than regular airplanes to perform site-specific management with high precisi...

The advent of canine performance science: offering a sustainable future for working dogs.

PubMed

Cobb, Mia; Branson, Nick; McGreevy, Paul; Lill, Alan; Bennett, Pauleen

2015-01-01

Working and sporting dogs provide an essential contribution to many industries worldwide. The common development, maintenance and disposal of working and sporting dogs can be considered in the same way as other animal production systems. The process of 'production' involves genetic selection, puppy rearing, recruitment and assessment, training, housing and handling, handler education, health and working life end-point management. At present, inefficiencies throughout the production process result in a high failure rate of dogs attaining operational status. This level of wastage would be condemned in other animal production industries for economic reasons and has significant implications for dog welfare, as well as public perceptions of dog-based industries. Standards of acceptable animal use are changing and some historically common uses of animals are no longer publicly acceptable, especially where harm is caused for purposes deemed trivial, or where alternatives exist. Public scrutiny of animal use appears likely to increase and extend to all roles of animals, including working and sporting dogs. Production system processes therefore need to be transparent, traceable and ethically acceptable for animal use to be sustainable into the future. Evidence-based approaches already inform best practice in fields as diverse as agriculture and human athletic performance. This article introduces the nascent discipline of canine performance science, which aims to facilitate optimal product quality and production efficiency, while also assuring evidence-based increments in dog welfare through a process of research and development. Our thesis is that the model of canine performance science offers an objective, transparent and traceable opportunity for industry development in line with community expectations and underpins a sustainable future for working dogs. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Canine Behavior. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Cost accounting, management control, and planning in health care.

PubMed

Siegrist, R B; Blish, C S

1988-02-01

Advantages and pharmacy applications of computerized hospital management-control and planning systems are described. Hospitals must define their product lines; patient cases, not tests or procedures, are the end product. Management involves operational control, management control, and strategic planning. Operational control deals with day-to-day management on the task level. Management control involves ensuring that managers use resources effectively and efficiently to accomplish the organization's objectives. Management control includes both control of unit costs of intermediate products, which are procedures and services used to treat patients and are managed by hospital department heads, and control of intermediate product use per case (managed by the clinician). Information from the operation and management levels feeds into the strategic plan; conversely, the management level controls the plan and the operational level carries it out. In the system developed at New England Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, the intermediate product-management system enables managers to identify intermediate products, develop standard costs, simulate changes in departmental costs, and perform variance analysis. The end-product management system creates a patient-level data-base, identifies end products (patient-care groupings), develops standard resource protocols, models alternative assumptions, performs variance analysis, and provides concurrent reporting. Examples are given of pharmacy managers' use of such systems to answer questions in the areas of product costing, product pricing, variance analysis, productivity monitoring, flexible budgeting, modeling and planning, and comparative analysis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Forest products research and development organizations in a worldwide setting : a review of structure, governance, and measures of performance

Treesearch

Paul V. Ellefson; Michael A. Kilgore; Kenneth E. Skog; Christopher D. Risbrudt

2006-01-01

The ability of forest products research programs to contribute to a nation’s well-being requires that research organizations be well organized, effectively managed, and held to high standards of performance. In 2004-2005, a review of forest products and related research organizations beyond the boundaries of the United States was carried out. The intent was to obtain a...

SHARP's systems engineering challenge: rectifying integrated product team requirements with performance issues in an evolutionary spiral development acquisition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuehl, C. Stephen

2003-08-01

Completing its final development and early deployment on the Navy's multi-role aircraft, the F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet, the SHAred Reconnaissance Pod (SHARP) provides the war fighter with the latest digital tactical reconnaissance (TAC Recce) Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensor system. The SHARP program is an evolutionary acquisition that used a spiral development process across a prototype development phase tightly coupled into overlapping Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) and Low Rate Initial Production (LRIP) phases. Under a tight budget environment with a highly compressed schedule, SHARP challenged traditional acquisition strategies and systems engineering (SE) processes. Adopting tailored state-of-the-art systems engineering process models allowd the SHARP program to overcome the technical knowledge transition challenges imposed by a compressed program schedule. The program's original goal was the deployment of digital TAC Recce mission capabilities to the fleet customer by summer of 2003. Hardware and software integration technical challenges resulted from requirements definition and analysis activities performed across a government-industry led Integrated Product Team (IPT) involving Navy engineering and test sites, Boeing, and RTSC-EPS (with its subcontracted hardware and government furnished equipment vendors). Requirements development from a bottoms-up approach was adopted using an electronic requirements capture environment to clarify and establish the SHARP EMD product baseline specifications as relevant technical data became available. Applying Earned-Value Management (EVM) against an Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) resulted in efficiently managing SE task assignments and product deliveries in a dynamically evolving customer requirements environment. Application of Six Sigma improvement methodologies resulted in the uncovering of root causes of errors in wiring interconnectivity drawings, pod manufacturing processes, and avionics requirements specifications. Utilizing the draft NAVAIR SE guideline handbook and the ANSI/EIA-632 standard: Processes for Engineering a System, a systems engineering tailored process approach was adopted for the accelerated SHARP EMD prgram. Tailoring SE processes in this accelerated product delivery environment provided unique opportunities to be technically creative in the establishment of a product performance baseline. This paper provides an historical overview of the systems engineering activities spanning the prototype phase through the EMD SHARP program phase, the performance requirement capture activities and refinement process challenges, and what SE process improvements can be applied to future SHARP-like programs adopting a compressed, evolutionary spiral development acquisition paradigm.

Lexical development of noun and predicate comprehension and production in isiZulu

PubMed Central

Ahmed, Saaliha

2016-01-01

This study seeks to investigate the development of noun and predicate comprehension and production in isiZulu-speaking children between the ages of 25 and 36 months. It compares lexical comprehension and production in isiZulu, using an Italian developed and validated vocabulary assessment tool: The Picture Naming Game (PiNG) developed by Bello, Giannantoni, Pettenati, Stefanini and Caselli (2012). The PiNG tool includes four subtests, one each for subnoun comprehension (NC), noun production (NP), predicate comprehension (PC), and predicate production (PP). Children are shown these lexical items and then asked to show comprehension and produce certain lexical items. After adaptation into the South African context, the adapted version of PiNG was used to directly assess the lexical development of isiZulu with the three main objectives to (1) test the efficiency of the adaptation of a vocabulary tool to measure isiZulu comprehension and production development, (2) test previous findings done in many cross-linguistic comparisons that have found that both comprehension and production performance increase with age for a lesser-studied language, and (3) present our findings around the comprehension and production of the linguistic categories of nouns and predicates. An analysis of the results reported in this study show an age effect throughout the entire sample. Across all the age groups, the comprehension of the noun and predicate subtests was better performed than the production of noun and predicate subtests. With regard to lexical items, the responses of children showed an influence of various factors, including the late acquisition of items, possible problems with stimuli presented to them, and the possible input received by the children from their home environment. PMID:27542416

Lexical development of noun and predicate comprehension and production in isiZulu.

PubMed

Nicolas, Ramona Kunene; Ahmed, Saaliha

2016-07-28

This study seeks to investigate the development of noun and predicate comprehension and production in isiZulu-speaking children between the ages of 25 and 36 months. It compares lexical comprehension and production in isiZulu, using an Italian developed and validated vocabulary assessment tool: The Picture Naming Game (PiNG) developed by Bello, Giannantoni, Pettenati, Stefanini and Caselli (2012). The PiNG tool includes four subtests, one each for subnoun comprehension (NC), noun production (NP), predicate comprehension (PC), and predicate production (PP). Children are shown these lexical items and then asked to show comprehension and produce certain lexical items. After adaptation into the South African context, the adapted version of PiNG was used to directly assess the lexical development of isiZulu with the three main objectives to (1) test the efficiency of the adaptation of a vocabulary tool to measure isiZulu comprehension and production development, (2) test previous findings done in many cross-linguistic comparisons that have found that both comprehension and production performance increase with age for a lesser-studied language, and (3) present our findings around the comprehension and production of the linguistic categories of nouns and predicates. An analysis of the results reported in this study show an age effect throughout the entire sample. Across all the age groups, the comprehension of the noun and predicate subtests was better performed than the production of noun and predicate subtests. With regard to lexical items, the responses of children showed an influence of various factors, including the late acquisition of items, possible problems with stimuli presented to them, and the possible input received by the children from their home environment.

Bibliometric analysis on global Behçet disease publications during 1980-2014: is there a Silk Road in the literature?

PubMed

Şenel, E; Demir, E; Alkan, R M

2017-03-01

Behçet disease (BD) is a chronic and multisystemic vasculitis characterized with recurrent oral and genital ulcers, uveitis, arthritis and skin manifestations. The highest prevalence of the disease has been reported in regions historically involved in the Silk Road routes. We aimed to analyse Behçet literature and evaluate whether there is a concordance between ancient Silk Road regions and the distribution of publication productivity. The bibliometric analysis of the publications published during 1980-2014 using Thomson Reuters Web of Science database was performed. We generated infographics of productivity and also analysed the correlations among economical productivities, technological advancement levels and humanity index and productivity performances of 78 countries in Behçet literature. Turkey ranked first in Behçet literature with 1837 articles followed by Japan and the USA. Turkey, Tunisia and Israel occupied the first three places in productivity. Significant correlations were noted between 2014 gross economic and technological indices and publication numbers of the countries. We found that European countries had high productivity, although they had low prevalence of BD. We detected no concordance between the productivity density of the countries and the ancient Silk Road routes. Most publications were reported from developed countries although undeveloped or developing countries had higher prevalence of BD. Physicians in undeveloped and developing countries should be supported and encouraged to perform novel studies on BD. © 2016 European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

Robust design of configurations and parameters of adaptable products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Jian; Chen, Yongliang; Xue, Deyi; Gu, Peihua

2014-03-01

An adaptable product can satisfy different customer requirements by changing its configuration and parameter values during the operation stage. Design of adaptable products aims at reducing the environment impact through replacement of multiple different products with single adaptable ones. Due to the complex architecture, multiple functional requirements, and changes of product configurations and parameter values in operation, impact of uncertainties to the functional performance measures needs to be considered in design of adaptable products. In this paper, a robust design approach is introduced to identify the optimal design configuration and parameters of an adaptable product whose functional performance measures are the least sensitive to uncertainties. An adaptable product in this paper is modeled by both configurations and parameters. At the configuration level, methods to model different product configuration candidates in design and different product configuration states in operation to satisfy design requirements are introduced. At the parameter level, four types of product/operating parameters and relations among these parameters are discussed. A two-level optimization approach is developed to identify the optimal design configuration and its parameter values of the adaptable product. A case study is implemented to illustrate the effectiveness of the newly developed robust adaptable design method.

Development of Impurity Profiling Methods Using Modern Analytical Techniques.

PubMed

Ramachandra, Bondigalla

2017-01-02

This review gives a brief introduction about the process- and product-related impurities and emphasizes on the development of novel analytical methods for their determination. It describes the application of modern analytical techniques, particularly the ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC), liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC). In addition to that, the application of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy was also discussed for the characterization of impurities and degradation products. The significance of the quality, efficacy and safety of drug substances/products, including the source of impurities, kinds of impurities, adverse effects by the presence of impurities, quality control of impurities, necessity for the development of impurity profiling methods, identification of impurities and regulatory aspects has been discussed. Other important aspects that have been discussed are forced degradation studies and the development of stability indicating assay methods.

A review of test results on parabolic dish solar thermal power modules with dish-mounted Rankine engines and for production of process steam

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jaffe, Leonard D.

1988-01-01

This paper presents results of development testing of various solar thermal parabolic dish modules and assemblies. Most of the tests were at modules and assemblies that used a dish-mounted, organic Rankine cycle turbine for production of electric power. Some tests were also run on equipment for production of process steam or for production of electricity using dish-mounted reciprocating steam engines. These tests indicate that early modules achieve efficiencies of about 18 percent in converting sunlight to electricity (excluding the inverter but including parasitics). A number of malfunctions occurred. The performance measurements, as well as the malfunctions and other operating experience, provided information that should be of value in developing systems with improved performance and reduced maintenance.

Testing of optical components to assure performance in a high-average-power environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chow, Robert; Taylor, John R.; Eickelberg, William K.; Primdahl, Keith A.

1997-11-01

Evaluation and testing of the optical components used in the atomic vapor laser isotope separation plant is critical for qualification of suppliers, developments of new optical multilayer designs and manufacturing processes, and assurance of performance in the production cycle. The range of specifications requires development of specialized test equipment and methods which are not routine or readily available in industry. Specifications are given on material characteristics such as index homogeneity, subsurface damage left after polishing, microscopic surface defects and contamination, coating absorption, and high average power laser damage. The approach to testing these performance characteristics and assuring the quality throughout the production cycle is described.

Scalable and continuous fabrication of bio-inspired dry adhesives with a thermosetting polymer.

PubMed

Lee, Sung Ho; Kim, Sung Woo; Kang, Bong Su; Chang, Pahn-Shick; Kwak, Moon Kyu

2018-04-04

Many research groups have developed unique micro/nano-structured dry adhesives by mimicking the foot of the gecko with the use of molding methods. Through these previous works, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) has been developed and become the most commonly used material for making artificial dry adhesives. The material properties of PDMS are well suited for making dry adhesives, such as conformal contacts with almost zero preload, low elastic moduli for stickiness, and easy cleaning with low surface energy. From a performance point of view, dry adhesives made with PDMS can be highly advantageous but are limited by its low productivity, as production takes an average of approximately two hours. Given the low productivity of PDMS, some research groups have developed dry adhesives using UV-curable materials, which are capable of continuous roll-to-roll production processes. However, UV-curable materials were too rigid to produce good adhesion. Thus, we established a PDMS continuous-production system to achieve good productivity and adhesion performance. We designed a thermal roll-imprinting lithography (TRL) system for the continuous production of PDMS microstructures by shortening the curing time by controlling the curing temperature (the production speed is up to 150 mm min-1). Dry adhesives composed of PDMS were fabricated continuously via the TRL system.

The Backyard Human Performance Technologist: Applying the Development Research Methodology to Develop and Validate a New Instructional Design Framework

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brock, Timothy R.

2009-01-01

Development research methodology (DRM) has been recommended as a viable research approach to expand the practice-to-theory/theory-to-practice literature that human performance technology (HPT) practitioners can integrate into the day-to-day work flow they already use to develop instructional products. However, little has been written about how it…

Mixed integer simulation optimization for optimal hydraulic fracturing and production of shale gas fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, J. C.; Gong, B.; Wang, H. G.

2016-08-01

Optimal development of shale gas fields involves designing a most productive fracturing network for hydraulic stimulation processes and operating wells appropriately throughout the production time. A hydraulic fracturing network design-determining well placement, number of fracturing stages, and fracture lengths-is defined by specifying a set of integer ordered blocks to drill wells and create fractures in a discrete shale gas reservoir model. The well control variables such as bottom hole pressures or production rates for well operations are real valued. Shale gas development problems, therefore, can be mathematically formulated with mixed-integer optimization models. A shale gas reservoir simulator is used to evaluate the production performance for a hydraulic fracturing and well control plan. To find the optimal fracturing design and well operation is challenging because the problem is a mixed integer optimization problem and entails computationally expensive reservoir simulation. A dynamic simplex interpolation-based alternate subspace (DSIAS) search method is applied for mixed integer optimization problems associated with shale gas development projects. The optimization performance is demonstrated with the example case of the development of the Barnett Shale field. The optimization results of DSIAS are compared with those of a pattern search algorithm.

Stochastic Modeling and Analysis of Multiple Nonlinear Accelerated Degradation Processes through Information Fusion.

PubMed

Sun, Fuqiang; Liu, Le; Li, Xiaoyang; Liao, Haitao

2016-08-06

Accelerated degradation testing (ADT) is an efficient technique for evaluating the lifetime of a highly reliable product whose underlying failure process may be traced by the degradation of the product's performance parameters with time. However, most research on ADT mainly focuses on a single performance parameter. In reality, the performance of a modern product is usually characterized by multiple parameters, and the degradation paths are usually nonlinear. To address such problems, this paper develops a new s-dependent nonlinear ADT model for products with multiple performance parameters using a general Wiener process and copulas. The general Wiener process models the nonlinear ADT data, and the dependency among different degradation measures is analyzed using the copula method. An engineering case study on a tuner's ADT data is conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results illustrate that the proposed method is quite effective in estimating the lifetime of a product with s-dependent performance parameters.

Innovative High-Performance Deposition Technology for Low-Cost Manufacturing of OLED Lighting

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

Hamer, John; Scott, David

In this project, OLEDWorks developed and demonstrated the innovative high-performance deposition technology required to deliver dramatic reductions in the cost of manufacturing OLED lighting in production equipment. The current high manufacturing cost of OLED lighting is the most urgent barrier to its market acceptance. The new deposition technology delivers solutions to the two largest parts of the manufacturing cost problem – the expense per area of good product for organic materials and for the capital cost and depreciation of the equipment. Organic materials cost is the largest expense item in the bill of materials and is predicted to remain somore » through 2020. The high-performance deposition technology developed in this project, also known as the next generation source (NGS), increases material usage efficiency from 25% found in current Gen2 deposition technology to 60%. This improvement alone results in a reduction of approximately 25 USD/m 2 of good product in organic materials costs, independent of production volumes. Additionally, this innovative deposition technology reduces the total depreciation cost from the estimated value of approximately 780 USD/m 2 of good product for state-of-the-art G2 lines (at capacity, 5-year straight line depreciation) to 170 USD/m 2 of good product from the OLEDWorks production line.« less

How to keep the Grid full and working with ATLAS production and physics jobs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pacheco Pagés, A.; Barreiro Megino, F. H.; Cameron, D.; Fassi, F.; Filipcic, A.; Di Girolamo, A.; González de la Hoz, S.; Glushkov, I.; Maeno, T.; Walker, R.; Yang, W.; ATLAS Collaboration

2017-10-01

The ATLAS production system provides the infrastructure to process millions of events collected during the LHC Run 1 and the first two years of Run 2 using grid, clouds and high performance computing. We address in this contribution the strategies and improvements that have been implemented to the production system for optimal performance and to achieve the highest efficiency of available resources from operational perspective. We focus on the recent developments.

Major advances in testing of dairy products: milk component and dairy product attribute testing.

PubMed

Barbano, D M; Lynch, J M

2006-04-01

Milk component analysis is relatively unusual in the field of quantitative analytical chemistry because an analytical test result determines the allocation of very large amounts of money between buyers and sellers of milk. Therefore, there is high incentive to develop and refine these methods to achieve a level of analytical performance rarely demanded of most methods or laboratory staff working in analytical chemistry. In the last 25 yr, well-defined statistical methods to characterize and validate analytical method performance combined with significant improvements in both the chemical and instrumental methods have allowed achievement of improved analytical performance for payment testing. A shift from marketing commodity dairy products to the development, manufacture, and marketing of value added dairy foods for specific market segments has created a need for instrumental and sensory approaches and quantitative data to support product development and marketing. Bringing together sensory data from quantitative descriptive analysis and analytical data from gas chromatography olfactometry for identification of odor-active compounds in complex natural dairy foods has enabled the sensory scientist and analytical chemist to work together to improve the consistency and quality of dairy food flavors.

Manufacturing Execution Systems: Examples of Performance Indicator and Operational Robustness Tools.

PubMed

Gendre, Yannick; Waridel, Gérard; Guyon, Myrtille; Demuth, Jean-François; Guelpa, Hervé; Humbert, Thierry

Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) are computerized systems used to measure production performance in terms of productivity, yield, and quality. In the first part, performance indicator and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE), process robustness tools and statistical process control are described. The second part details some tools to help process robustness and control by operators by preventing deviations from target control charts. MES was developed by Syngenta together with CIMO for automation.

Life-Cycle Inventory Analysis of Cellulosic Fiberboard Production in North America

Treesearch

Richard D. Bergman

2014-01-01

Documenting the environmental performance of building products is becoming widespread because of many green-marketing claims made without scientific merit (i.e., green-washing). Developing environmental product declarations (EPDs) for building products is one way to accomplish this objective for scientific documentation and to counter green-washing. EPDs are based on...

Prosodic development in middle childhood and adolescence in high-functioning autism.

PubMed

Lyons, Megan; Schoen Simmons, Elizabeth; Paul, Rhea

2014-04-01

The present study aims to investigate the perception and production of several domains of prosodic performance in a cross-sectional sample of preadolescents and adolescents with and without high-functioning autism (HFA). To look at the role of language abilities on prosodic performance, the HFA groups were subdivided based on "high" and "low" language performance on the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals-Fourth Edition (CELF-4) (Semel, Wiig, & Secord). Social and cognitive abilities were also examined to determine their relationship to prosodic performance. No significant differences were seen in prosody scores in the younger versus older subgroups in typically developing (TD) group with age-appropriate language. There was small but significant improvement in performance with age in the groups with HFA. Comparing performance at each age level across diagnostic groups showed that preteens with HFA and higher language levels perform similarly to their TD peers on all prosodic tasks, whereas those with lower language skills scored significantly worse than both their higher language and TD peers when looking at composite perception and production findings. Teens with HFA showed no deficits on perception tasks; however, those with low language levels had difficulty on several production tasks when compared to the TD group. Regression analyses suggested that, for the preteen group with HFA, language was the strongest predictor of prosodic perception, whereas nonverbal IQ was most highly predictive of prosodic production. For adolescents with HFA, social skills significantly contributed to the prediction of prosodic perception and, along with language abilities, predicted prosodic production. Implications of these findings will be discussed. © 2014 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Optimization of Deep Drilling Performance--Development and Benchmark Testing of Advanced Diamond Product Drill Bits & HP/HT Fluids to Significantly Improve Rates of Penetration

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

Alan Black; Arnis Judzis

2003-10-01

This document details the progress to date on the OPTIMIZATION OF DEEP DRILLING PERFORMANCE--DEVELOPMENT AND BENCHMARK TESTING OF ADVANCED DIAMOND PRODUCT DRILL BITS AND HP/HT FLUIDS TO SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVE RATES OF PENETRATION contract for the year starting October 2002 through September 2002. The industry cost shared program aims to benchmark drilling rates of penetration in selected simulated deep formations and to significantly improve ROP through a team development of aggressive diamond product drill bit--fluid system technologies. Overall the objectives are as follows: Phase 1--Benchmark ''best in class'' diamond and other product drilling bits and fluids and develop concepts for amore » next level of deep drilling performance; Phase 2--Develop advanced smart bit--fluid prototypes and test at large scale; and Phase 3--Field trial smart bit--fluid concepts, modify as necessary and commercialize products. Accomplishments to date include the following: 4Q 2002--Project started; Industry Team was assembled; Kick-off meeting was held at DOE Morgantown; 1Q 2003--Engineering meeting was held at Hughes Christensen, The Woodlands Texas to prepare preliminary plans for development and testing and review equipment needs; Operators started sending information regarding their needs for deep drilling challenges and priorities for large-scale testing experimental matrix; Aramco joined the Industry Team as DEA 148 objectives paralleled the DOE project; 2Q 2003--Engineering and planning for high pressure drilling at TerraTek commenced; 3Q 2003--Continuation of engineering and design work for high pressure drilling at TerraTek; Baker Hughes INTEQ drilling Fluids and Hughes Christensen commence planning for Phase 1 testing--recommendations for bits and fluids.« less

Alternatives to antibiotics for maximizing growth performance and feed efficiency in poultry: a review.

PubMed

Gadde, U; Kim, W H; Oh, S T; Lillehoj, Hyun S

2017-06-01

With the increase in regulations regarding the use of antibiotic growth promoters and the rise in consumer demand for poultry products from 'Raised Without Antibiotics' or 'No Antibiotics Ever' flocks, the quest for alternative products or approaches has intensified in recent years. A great deal of research has focused on the development of antibiotic alternatives to maintain or improve poultry health and performance. This review describes the potential for the various alternatives available to increase animal productivity and help poultry perform to their genetic potential under existing commercial conditions. The classes of alternatives described include probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, organic acids, enzymes, phytogenics, antimicrobial peptides, hyperimmune egg antibodies, bacteriophages, clay, and metals. A brief description of the mechanism of action, efficacy, and advantages and disadvantages of their uses are also presented. Though the beneficial effects of many of the alternatives developed have been well demonstrated, the general consensus is that these products lack consistency and the results vary greatly from farm to farm. Furthermore, their mode of action needs to be better defined. Optimal combinations of various alternatives coupled with good management and husbandry practices will be the key to maximize performance and maintain animal productivity, while we move forward with the ultimate goal of reducing antibiotic use in the animal industry.

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

Yelundur, Vijay

Suniva, Inc., in collaboration with the University Center for Excellence in Photovoltaics (UCEP) at the Georgia Institute of Technology (GIT) proposed this comprehensive three year program to enable the development of an advanced high performance product that will help the US regain its competitive edge in PV. This project was designed to overcome cost and efficiency barriers through advances in PV science, technology innovation, low-cost manufacturing and full production of ~22.5% efficient n-type Si cells in Norcross, GA. At the heart of the project is the desire to complement the technology being developed concurrently under the Solarmat and ARPAe initiativesmore » to develop a differentiated product superior in both performance and cost effectiveness to the competing alternatives available on the market, and push towards achieving SunShot objectives while ensuring a sustainable business model based on US manufacturing. A significant reduction of the costs in modules produced today will need to combine reductions in wafer costs, cell processing costs as well as module fabrication costs while delivering a product that is not only more efficient under test conditions but also increases the energy yield in outdoor operations. This project will result in a differentiated high performance product and technology that is consistent with sustaining PV manufacturing in the US for a longer term and further highlights the need for continued support for developing the next generation concepts that can keep US manufacturing thriving to support the growing demand for PV in the US and consistent with the US government’s mandates for energy independence.« less

Status of Solid State Lighting Product Development and Future Trends for General Illumination.

PubMed

Katona, Thomas M; Pattison, P Morgan; Paolini, Steve

2016-06-07

After decades of research and development on fabrication of efficient light-emitting diodes (LEDs) throughout the visible spectrum, LED-based lighting has reached unparalleled performance with respect to energy efficiency and has become the light source for virtually all new lighting products being designed today. The development of the core light sources and their subsequent integration into lighting systems continue to present unique challenges and opportunities for product designers. We review these systems and the current development status, as well as provide context for the trends in solid state lighting that are leading to the development of value-added lighting solutions that extend the domain of lighting beyond light generation, into fields as diverse as communications, healthcare, and agricultural production.

MIRAGE: developments in IRSP systems, RIIC design, emitter fabrication, and performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bryant, Paul; Oleson, Jim; James, Jay; McHugh, Steve; Lannon, John; Vellenga, David; Goodwin, Scott; Huffman, Alan; Solomon, Steve; Goldsmith, George C., II

2005-05-01

SBIR's family of MIRAGE infrared scene projection systems is undergoing significant growth and expansion. The first two lots of production IR emitters have completed fabrication at Microelectronics Center of North Carolina/Research and Development Institute (MCNC-RDI), and the next round(s) of emitter production has begun. These latest emitter arrays support programs such as Large Format Resistive Array (LFRA), Optimized Array for Space-based Infrared Simulation (OASIS), MIRAGE 1.5, and MIRAGE II. We present the latest performance data on emitters fabricated at MCNC-RDI, plus integrated system performance on recently completed IRSP systems. Teamed with FLIR Systems/Indigo Operations, SBIR and the Tri-Services IRSP Working Group have completed development of the CMOS Read-In Integrated Circuit (RIIC) portion of the Wide Format Resistive Array (WFRA) program-to extend LFRA performance to a 768 x 1536 "wide screen" projection configuration. WFRA RIIC architecture and performance is presented. Finally, we summarize development of the LFRA Digital Emitter Engine (DEE) and OASIS cryogenic package assemblies, the next-generation Command & Control Electronics (C&CE).

47 CFR 32.6611 - Product management and sales.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 2 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Product management and sales. 32.6611 Section... Product management and sales. This account shall include: (a) Costs incurred in performing administrative..., development and presentation of customer proposals, sales order preparation and handling, and preparation of...

47 CFR 32.6611 - Product management and sales.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 2 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Product management and sales. 32.6611 Section... Product management and sales. This account shall include: (a) Costs incurred in performing administrative..., development and presentation of customer proposals, sales order preparation and handling, and preparation of...

47 CFR 32.6611 - Product management and sales.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 2 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Product management and sales. 32.6611 Section... Product management and sales. This account shall include: (a) Costs incurred in performing administrative..., development and presentation of customer proposals, sales order preparation and handling, and preparation of...

77 FR 76479 - FIFRA Scientific Advisory Panel; Notice of Public Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-12-28

... Needs Assessment for Products Claiming Efficacy Against Invertebrate Pests. DATES: The meeting will be... efficacy of pesticide products used to control invertebrate pests. The SAP's recommendations will be considered as EPA develops the proposed invertebrate product performance data requirements. Once EPA codifies...

Biomass, strain engineering, and fermentation processes for butanol production by solventogenic clostridia.

PubMed

Lee, Sang-Hyun; Yun, Eun Ju; Kim, Jungyeon; Lee, Sang Jun; Um, Youngsoon; Kim, Kyoung Heon

2016-10-01

Butanol is considered an attractive biofuel and a commercially important bulk chemical. However, economical production of butanol by solventogenic clostridia, e.g., via fermentative production of acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE), is hampered by low fermentation performance, mainly as a result of toxicity of butanol to microorganisms and high substrate costs. Recently, sugars from marine macroalgae and syngas were recognized as potent carbon sources in biomass feedstocks that are abundant and do not compete for arable land with edible crops. With the aid of systems metabolic engineering, many researchers have developed clostridial strains with improved performance on fermentation of these substrates. Alternatively, fermentation strategies integrated with butanol recovery processes such as adsorption, gas stripping, liquid-liquid extraction, and pervaporation have been designed to increase the overall titer of butanol and volumetric productivity. Nevertheless, for economically feasible production of butanol, innovative strategies based on recent research should be implemented. This review describes and discusses recent advances in the development of biomass feedstocks, microbial strains, and fermentation processes for butanol production.

Development of a High Volume Capable Process to Manufacture High Performance Photovoltaic Cells: Cooperative Research and Development Final Report, CRADA Number CRD-08-322

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

Geisz, J. F.

2012-11-01

The intent of the work is for RFMD and NREL to cooperate in the development of a commercially viable and high volume capable process to manufacture high performance photovoltaic cells, based on inverted metamorphic (IMM) GaAs technology. The successful execution of the agreement will result in the production of a PV cell using technology that is capable of conversion efficiency at par with the market at the time of release (reference 2009: 37-38%), using RFMD's production facilities. The CRADA work has been divided into three phases: (1) a foundation phase where the teams will demonstrate the manufacturing of a basicmore » PV cell at RFMD's production facilities; (2) a technology demonstration phase where the teams will demonstrate the manufacturing of prototype PV cells using IMM technology at RFMD's production facilities, and; (3) a production readiness phase where the teams will demonstrate the capability to manufacture PV cells using IMM technology with high yields, high reliability, high reproducibility and low cost.« less

Multi-scale process and supply chain modelling: from lignocellulosic feedstock to process and products

PubMed Central

Hosseini, Seyed Ali; Shah, Nilay

2011-01-01

There is a large body of literature regarding the choice and optimization of different processes for converting feedstock to bioethanol and bio-commodities; moreover, there has been some reasonable technological development in bioconversion methods over the past decade. However, the eventual cost and other important metrics relating to sustainability of biofuel production will be determined not only by the performance of the conversion process, but also by the performance of the entire supply chain from feedstock production to consumption. Moreover, in order to ensure world-class biorefinery performance, both the network and the individual components must be designed appropriately, and allocation of resources over the resulting infrastructure must effectively be performed. The goal of this work is to describe the key challenges in bioenergy supply chain modelling and then to develop a framework and methodology to show how multi-scale modelling can pave the way to answer holistic supply chain questions, such as the prospects for second generation bioenergy crops. PMID:22482032

Production of fortified food for a public supplementary nutrition program: performance and viability of a decentralised production model for the Integrated Child Development Services Program, India.

PubMed

Antier, Clémentine; Kumar, Salil; Bhagwat, Sadhana; Sankar, Rajan

2014-01-01

Integrated Child Development Services in India through its supplementary nutrition programme covers over 100 million children, pregnant and lactating women across the country. Providing a hot cooked meal each day to children aged between 3-6 years and a take-home ration to children aged between 6-36 months, pregnant and lactating women, the Integrated Child Development Services faces a monumental task to deliver this component of services of desired quality and regularity at scale. From intermediaries or contractors who acted as agents for procuring and distributing food to procurement directly from large food manufacturers to using women groups as food producers, different State Governments have adopted a variety of strategies to procure and distribute food, especially the take-home ration. India's Supreme Court, through its directive of 2004, encouraged the Government to engage women's groups for the production of the supplementary food. This study was conducted to determine the operational performance, economic sustainability and social impact of a decentralised production model for India's Supplementary Nutrition Program, in which women groups run smallscale industrialised units. Data were collected through observation, interviews and group discussions with key stakeholders. Operational performance was analysed through standard performance indicators that measured consistency in production, compliance with quality standards and distribution regularity. Assessment of the economic viability included cost structure analysis, five-year projections, and financial ratios. Social impact was assessed using a qualitative approach. The pilot unit has demonstrated its operational performance and cost-efficiency. More data is needed to evaluate the scalability and sustainability of this decentralised model.

New product development: A batik multifunctional chair

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Indrawati, Sri; Sukmaningsih, Nias

2017-11-01

The biggest challenge facing by Batik industry in ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) era is the greater number of fashion competitors both domestically and internationally. Based on that condition, the development of new product variants by considering product performance and price is needed. This research was conducted to develop batik products with a new target market. Products that being developed is batik multifunctional chair using integrated value engineering and analytic hierarchy process methods. This research has been done in several stages, ie. Information stage, creative stage, value analysis and product prototyping. The results of this research shows that the batik multifunctional chair product criteria are aesthetic (29%), multifunctional (34%) and ergonomic (37%). There are three new product design alternatives that successfully being developed. Based on value analysis, the product design alternatives that have the highest value is alternative design 2, the value is 2,37. The production cost for this design is Rp. 500.000,-. Alternative design 2 specification are using Mahoni wood, Batik parang rusak pattern with natural coloring process, can be used as table and fit with customer's body anthropometry. Then a batik multifunctional chair prototype is developed based on the best alternative design.

Using conjoint and cluster analysis in developing new product for micro, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) based on customer preferences (Case study: Lampung province's banana chips)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kosasih, Wilson; Salomon, Lithrone Laricha; Hutomo, Reynaldo

2017-08-01

This paper discusses the development of new products of Micro, Small and Medium Entreprises (SMEs) to identify what attributes are considered by consumers, as well as combinations of attributes that need to be analyzed into the main preferences of consumers. The purpose of this research is to increase the added value and competitiveness of SMEs through product innovation. The object of this study is banana chips produced by SMEs from the province of Lampung which it considered to be unique souvenirs of the province. The research data were collected by distributing questionnaires in Jakarta which has heterogeneous population, in order to develop banana chip's marketing and increase its market share in Indonesia. Data processing was performed using conjoint analysis and cluster analysis. Segmentation was performed using conjoint analysis based on the importance level of attributes and part-worth of level attributes of each cluster. Finally, characteristics and consumer preferences of each cluster will be a consideration in determining the product development and marketing strategies.

Optimization of a micro-scale, high throughput process development tool and the demonstration of comparable process performance and product quality with biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes.

PubMed

Evans, Steven T; Stewart, Kevin D; Afdahl, Chris; Patel, Rohan; Newell, Kelcy J

2017-07-14

In this paper, we discuss the optimization and implementation of a high throughput process development (HTPD) tool that utilizes commercially available micro-liter sized column technology for the purification of multiple clinically significant monoclonal antibodies. Chromatographic profiles generated using this optimized tool are shown to overlay with comparable profiles from the conventional bench-scale and clinical manufacturing scale. Further, all product quality attributes measured are comparable across scales for the mAb purifications. In addition to supporting chromatography process development efforts (e.g., optimization screening), comparable product quality results at all scales makes this tool is an appropriate scale model to enable purification and product quality comparisons of HTPD bioreactors conditions. The ability to perform up to 8 chromatography purifications in parallel with reduced material requirements per run creates opportunities for gathering more process knowledge in less time. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Materials and Chemical Science and Technology | Research | NREL

Science.gov Websites

Applications and Performance Developing high-efficiency crystalline PV, measuring PV cell/module performance Cells and Hydrogen Program Developing, integrating, and demonstrating hydrogen production/delivery /storage through core programs and EFRCs Point of Contact Bill Tumas MCST Research Advisors/Fellows Senior

Ares I-X Range Safety Flight Envelope Analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Starr, Brett R.; Olds, Aaron D.; Craig, Anthony S.

2011-01-01

Ares I-X was the first test flight of NASA's Constellation Program's Ares I Crew Launch Vehicle designed to provide manned access to low Earth orbit. As a one-time test flight, the Air Force's 45th Space Wing required a series of Range Safety analysis data products to be developed for the specified launch date and mission trajectory prior to granting flight approval on the Eastern Range. The range safety data package is required to ensure that the public, launch area, and launch complex personnel and resources are provided with an acceptable level of safety and that all aspects of prelaunch and launch operations adhere to applicable public laws. The analysis data products, defined in the Air Force Space Command Manual 91-710, Volume 2, consisted of a nominal trajectory, three sigma trajectory envelopes, stage impact footprints, acoustic intensity contours, trajectory turn angles resulting from potential vehicle malfunctions (including flight software failures), characterization of potential debris, and debris impact footprints. These data products were developed under the auspices of the Constellation's Program Launch Constellation Range Safety Panel and its Range Safety Trajectory Working Group with the intent of beginning the framework for the operational vehicle data products and providing programmatic review and oversight. A multi-center NASA team in conjunction with the 45th Space Wing, collaborated within the Trajectory Working Group forum to define the data product development processes, performed the analyses necessary to generate the data products, and performed independent verification and validation of the data products. This paper outlines the Range Safety data requirements and provides an overview of the processes established to develop both the data products and the individual analyses used to develop the data products, and it summarizes the results of the analyses required for the Ares I-X launch.

Ares I-X Range Safety Analyses Overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Starr, Brett R.; Gowan, John W., Jr.; Thompson, Brian G.; Tarpley, Ashley W.

2011-01-01

Ares I-X was the first test flight of NASA's Constellation Program's Ares I Crew Launch Vehicle designed to provide manned access to low Earth orbit. As a one-time test flight, the Air Force's 45th Space Wing required a series of Range Safety analysis data products to be developed for the specified launch date and mission trajectory prior to granting flight approval on the Eastern Range. The range safety data package is required to ensure that the public, launch area, and launch complex personnel and resources are provided with an acceptable level of safety and that all aspects of prelaunch and launch operations adhere to applicable public laws. The analysis data products, defined in the Air Force Space Command Manual 91-710, Volume 2, consisted of a nominal trajectory, three sigma trajectory envelopes, stage impact footprints, acoustic intensity contours, trajectory turn angles resulting from potential vehicle malfunctions (including flight software failures), characterization of potential debris, and debris impact footprints. These data products were developed under the auspices of the Constellation's Program Launch Constellation Range Safety Panel and its Range Safety Trajectory Working Group with the intent of beginning the framework for the operational vehicle data products and providing programmatic review and oversight. A multi-center NASA team in conjunction with the 45th Space Wing, collaborated within the Trajectory Working Group forum to define the data product development processes, performed the analyses necessary to generate the data products, and performed independent verification and validation of the data products. This paper outlines the Range Safety data requirements and provides an overview of the processes established to develop both the data products and the individual analyses used to develop the data products, and it summarizes the results of the analyses required for the Ares I-X launch.

Production of succinic acid by metabolically engineered microorganisms.

PubMed

Ahn, Jung Ho; Jang, Yu-Sin; Lee, Sang Yup

2016-12-01

Succinic acid (SA) has been recognized as one of the most important bio-based building block chemicals due to its numerous potential applications. For the economical bio-based production of SA, extensive research works have been performed on developing microbial strains by metabolic engineering as well as fermentation and downstream processes. Here we review metabolic engineering strategies applied for bio-based production of SA using representative microorganisms, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Pichia kudriavzevii, Escherichia coli, Mannheimia succiniciproducens, Basfia succiniciproducens, Actinobacillus succinogenes, and Corynebacterium glutamicum. In particular, strategies employed for developing engineered strains of these microorganisms leading to the best performance indices (titer, yield, and productivity) are showcased based on the published papers as well as patents. Those processes currently under commercialization are also analyzed and future perspectives are provided. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Exploring the potential of Product Service Systems to achieve household waste prevention on new housing developments in the UK.

PubMed

Gottberg, Annika; Longhurst, Philip J; Cook, Matthew B

2010-03-01

Product service systems (PSS) are cleaner product concepts which have been developed to achieve improvements in resource productivity which may be realized from modern trends in service delivery. However, there is a paucity of research on the waste prevention performance of PSS in UK household markets. This paper reports the findings of exploratory research which begins to address this gap in knowledge. An exploratory waste prevention assessment was completed on four experimental PSS which were developed in conjunction with a major UK house-builder for delivery on their new housing developments. The results of the assessment show that the selected PSS concepts have potential to prevent high value and harmful Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) arising in UK household waste streams. Consistent with the canon of exploratory research, the assessment also identifies a number of factors which are thought to influence PSS waste prevention performance. It is recognized that further research is needed to gain an in-depth understanding of these factors as well as to define policy measures which enable the conditions in which PSS prevent household waste on new housing developments in the UK to be created.

Cleaning and disinfection in home care: A comparison of 2 commercial products with potentially different consequences for respiratory health.

PubMed

Goodyear, Nancy; Markkanen, Pia; Beato-Melendez, Christian; Mohamed, Hagir; Gore, Rebecca; Galligan, Catherine; Sama, Susan; Quinn, Margaret

2018-04-01

Home care aides perform personal care and homemaking services in client homes, including cleaning and disinfection (C&D). Although C&D are performed to remove soil and dust, they are increasingly performed for infection prevention. Many C&D products contain respiratory irritants. The objective of this study was to evaluate 2 commercial products for C&D effectiveness on common household surfaces in seniors' homes. Two C&D visits were conducted in 46 seniors' homes. One visit applied a bleach-containing cleaning product and the other applied an environmentally preferable product. Before and after C&D, the study team performed organic soil bioluminometer measurements on surfaces and collected cotton swab and wipe samples for total bacteria count, Staphylococcus aureus, and Clostridium difficile identification. Both products removed microorganisms from tested surfaces. S aureus was found in 7 households, 1 strain of which was methicillin-resistant. Both products removed S aureus from all surfaces. Bleach-containing products removed somewhat more soil than environmentally preferable products, although results were statistically significant for only 1 surface. The study showed similar, not identical, C&D performance for 2 cleaning products with potentially different consequences for respiratory health. Additional research is needed to develop robust recommendations for safe, effective C&D in home care. Copyright © 2018 Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tasks Essential to Successful Performance within Animal Production and Management Occupations in Ohio. Summary of Research Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hampson, Michael N.; McCracken, J. David

A study was conducted to identify the skills which are performed and essential for success in seven animal production and management (small animal care) occupations: animal health assistant, laboratory animal assistant, kennel worker, dog groomer, pet shop worker, stable worker, and zoo keeper. Specific objectives were (1) to develop and validate…

Experimental study of the space-time development of the particle production process in hadron-nucleon collisions, using massive target nucleus as a detector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Strugalski, Z.

1985-01-01

Experimental study of the space-time development of the particle production process in hadronic collisions at its initial stage was performed. Massive target nuclei have been used as fine detectors of properties of the particle production process development within time intervals smaller than 10 to the 22nd power s and spatial distances smaller than 10 to the 12th power cm. In hadron-nucleon collisions, in particular in nucleon-nucleon collisions, the particle production process goes through intermediate objects in 2 yields 2 type endoergic reactions. The objects decay into commonly observed resonances and paricles.

Can we compare the environmental performance of this product to that one? An update on the development of product category rules and future challenges toward alignment

EPA Science Inventory

When used to compare the relative environmental benefits of different products, life cycle-based, quantitative environmental claims, such as carbon footprints and environmental product declarations require common rules in order for claims to be comparable within a category. Produ...

Identification and Structure Elucidation of Forced Degradation Products of the Novel Propionic acid Derivative Loxoprofen: Development of Stability-Indicating Chromatographic Methods Validated as per ICH Guidelines.

PubMed

Eissa, Maya S; Abd El-Sattar, Osama I

2017-04-01

Loxoprofen sodium (LOX) is a recently developed novel propionic acid derivative. Owing to its instability under both hydrolytic and oxidative conditions, the development of simple, rapid and sensitive methods for its determination in the presence of its possible forced degradation products becomes essential. Two simple chromatographic methods, high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), were developed associated with ultraviolet (UV) detection. In HPTLC-densitometric method, the separation of LOX from its degradation products was achieved using silica gel F254 plates and toluene:acetone:acetic acid (1.8:1.0:0.1, v/v/v) as the developing system followed by densitometric scanning at 220 nm. In the HPLC-UV method, the separation was performed using isocratic elution system with acetonitrile: 0.15% triethylamine (pH 2.2) (50:50, v/v) on C18 analytical column. The flow rate was optimized at 1.0 mL·min-1 and UV detection was achieved at 220 nm. Validation was performed in accordance with the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines and the method was perfectly applied for determination of LOX in its pharmaceutical preparation. The results obtained were statistically compared to those obtained after application of the official HPLC method, where no significant difference was found incompliance with precision and accuracy. Identification and characterization of the possible hydrolytic degradation product under alkaline conditions and that produced during oxidative degradation using hydrogen peroxide were structurally elucidated using infrared and mass spectrometry analyses. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

[Performance evaluation of a fluorescamine-HPLC method for determination of histamine in fish and fish products].

PubMed

Kikuchi, Hiroyuki; Tsutsumi, Tomoaki; Matsuda, Rieko

2012-01-01

A method for the quantification of histamine in fish and fish products using tandem solid-phase extraction and fluorescence derivatization with fluorescamine was previously developed. In this study, we improved this analytical method to develop an official test method for quantification of histamine in fish and fish products, and performed a single laboratory study to validate it. Recovery tests of histamine from fillet (Thunnus obesus), and two fish products (fish sauce and salted and dried whole big-eye sardine) that were spiked at the level of 25 and 50 µg/g for T. obesus, and 50 and 100 µg/g for the two fish products, were carried out. The recoveries of histamine from the three samples tested were 88.8-99.6% with good repeatability (1.3-2.1%) and reproducibility (2.1-4.7%). Therefore, this method is acceptable for the quantification of histamine in fish and fish products. Moreover, surveillance of histamine content in food on the market was conducted using this method, and high levels of histamine were detected in some fish products.

The Fun Bus: An Experiment in Nonformal Education through the Arts.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Russell, Robert

A community development project employed the performing arts to focus community consciousness on local issues and problems in five towns in western Massachusetts. Performing artists and community development personnel organized town residents to hold workshops and, ultimately, theatrical productions to explore town issues. The team spent two weeks…

AGR-1 Compact 1-3-1 Post-Irradiation Examination Results

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

Demkowicz, Paul Andrew

The Advanced Gas Reactor (AGR) Fuel Development and Qualification Program was established to perform the requisite research and development on tristructural isotropic (TRISO) coated particle fuel to support deployment of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR). The work continues as part of the Advanced Reactor Technologies (ART) TRISO Fuel program. The overarching program goal is to provide a baseline fuel qualification data set to support licensing and operation of an HTGR. To achieve these goals, the program includes the elements of fuel fabrication, irradiation, post-irradiation examination (PIE) and safety testing, fuel performance modeling, and fission product transport (INL 2015). A seriesmore » of fuel irradiation experiments is being planned and conducted in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at Idaho National Laboratory (INL). These experiments will provide data on fuel performance under irradiation, support fuel process development, qualify the fuel for normal operating conditions, provide irradiated fuel for safety testing, and support the development of fuel performance and fission product transport models. The first of these irradiation tests, designated AGR-1, began in the ATR in December 2006 and ended in November 2009. This experiment was conducted primarily to act as a shakedown test of the multicapsule test train design and provide early data on fuel performance for use in fuel fabrication process development. It also provided samples for post-irradiation safety testing, where fission product retention of the fuel at high temperatures will be experimentally measured. The capsule design and details of the AGR-1 experiment have been presented previously (Grover, Petti, and Maki 2010, Maki 2009).« less

AGR-1 Compact 5-3-1 Post-Irradiation Examination Results

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

Demkowicz, Paul; Harp, Jason; Winston, Phil

The Advanced Gas Reactor (AGR) Fuel Development and Qualification Program was established to perform the requisite research and development on tristructural isotropic (TRISO) coated particle fuel to support deployment of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR). The work continues as part of the Advanced Reactor Technologies (ART) TRISO Fuel program. The overarching program goal is to provide a baseline fuel qualification data set to support licensing and operation of an HTGR. To achieve these goals, the program includes the elements of fuel fabrication, irradiation, post-irradiation examination (PIE) and safety testing, fuel performance, and fission product transport (INL 2015). A series ofmore » fuel irradiation experiments is being planned and conducted in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at Idaho National Laboratory (INL). These experiments will provide data on fuel performance under irradiation, support fuel process development, qualify the fuel for normal operating conditions, provide irradiated fuel for safety testing, and support the development of fuel performance and fission product transport models. The first of these irradiation tests, designated AGR-1, began in the ATR in December 2006 and ended in November 2009. This experiment was conducted primarily to act as a shakedown test of the multicapsule test train design and provide early data on fuel performance for use in fuel fabrication process development. It also provided samples for post-irradiation safety testing, where fission product retention of the fuel at high temperatures will be experimentally measured. The capsule design and details of the AGR-1 experiment have been presented previously.« less

High Efficiency, High Performance Clothes Dryer

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

Peter Pescatore; Phil Carbone

This program covered the development of two separate products; an electric heat pump clothes dryer and a modulating gas dryer. These development efforts were independent of one another and are presented in this report in two separate volumes. Volume 1 details the Heat Pump Dryer Development while Volume 2 details the Modulating Gas Dryer Development. In both product development efforts, the intent was to develop high efficiency, high performance designs that would be attractive to US consumers. Working with Whirlpool Corporation as our commercial partner, TIAX applied this approach of satisfying consumer needs throughout the Product Development Process for bothmore » dryer designs. Heat pump clothes dryers have been in existence for years, especially in Europe, but have not been able to penetrate the market. This has been especially true in the US market where no volume production heat pump dryers are available. The issue has typically been around two key areas: cost and performance. Cost is a given in that a heat pump clothes dryer has numerous additional components associated with it. While heat pump dryers have been able to achieve significant energy savings compared to standard electric resistance dryers (over 50% in some cases), designs to date have been hampered by excessively long dry times, a major market driver in the US. The development work done on the heat pump dryer over the course of this program led to a demonstration dryer that delivered the following performance characteristics: (1) 40-50% energy savings on large loads with 35 F lower fabric temperatures and similar dry times; (2) 10-30 F reduction in fabric temperature for delicate loads with up to 50% energy savings and 30-40% time savings; (3) Improved fabric temperature uniformity; and (4) Robust performance across a range of vent restrictions. For the gas dryer development, the concept developed was one of modulating the gas flow to the dryer throughout the dry cycle. Through heat modulation in a gas dryer, significant time and energy savings, combined with dramatically reduced fabric temperatures, was achieved in a cost-effective manner. The key design factor lay in developing a system that matches the heat input to the dryer with the fabrics ability to absorb it. The development work done on the modulating gas dryer over the course of this program led to a demonstration dryer that delivered the following performance characteristics: (1) Up to 25% reduction in energy consumption for small and medium loads; (2) Up to 35% time savings for large loads with 10-15% energy reduction and no adverse effect on cloth temperatures; (3) Reduced fabric temperatures, dry times and 18% energy reduction for delicate loads; and, (4) Robust performance across a range of vent restrictions.« less

24 CFR 200.944 - Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standards and certification...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... rated wood-based structural-use panels. 200.944 Section 200.944 Housing and Urban Development... product standards and certification program for plywood and other performance rated wood-based structural... building product certification program. In the case of plywood and wood-based structural-use panels...

24 CFR 200.944 - Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standards and certification...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... rated wood-based structural-use panels. 200.944 Section 200.944 Housing and Urban Development... product standards and certification program for plywood and other performance rated wood-based structural... building product certification program. In the case of plywood and wood-based structural-use panels...

24 CFR 200.944 - Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standards and certification...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... rated wood-based structural-use panels. 200.944 Section 200.944 Housing and Urban Development... product standards and certification program for plywood and other performance rated wood-based structural... building product certification program. In the case of plywood and wood-based structural-use panels...

Life Cycle Assessment as a Tool to Enhance the Environmental Performanceof Carbon Nanotube Products: A Review

EPA Science Inventory

The importance of evaluating the environmental performance of emerging carbon nanotube (CNT) products from a life cycle perspective is emphasized in this work. Design, development and deployment of CNT products offer many potential benefits to society, but not without negative im...

Speaking with a Commonality Language: A Lexicon for System and Component Development

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-01

Abdullahil Azeem, “Impact of Commonality and Flexibility on Manufacturing Performance: A Simulation Study,” International Journal of Production Economics , Vols...Cycle Costs of Products,” International Journal of Production Economics , Vols. 60–61, April 1999, pp. 109–116. Robertson, David, and Karl Ulrich

24 CFR 200.944 - Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standards and certification...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... rated wood-based structural-use panels. 200.944 Section 200.944 Housing and Urban Development... product standards and certification program for plywood and other performance rated wood-based structural... building product certification program. In the case of plywood and wood-based structural-use panels...

24 CFR 200.944 - Supplementary specific requirements under the HUD building product standards and certification...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... rated wood-based structural-use panels. 200.944 Section 200.944 Housing and Urban Development... product standards and certification program for plywood and other performance rated wood-based structural... building product certification program. In the case of plywood and wood-based structural-use panels...

POLLUTION PREVENTION IN INDUSTRIAL CONDENSATION REACTIONS

EPA Science Inventory

The objective of this project is to develop heterogeneous acid-base catalysts to increase the economic and environmental performance of the current homogeneous catalysts used to make industrially important condensation products. Such products include methyl isobutyl ketone ...

Drug-device combination products in the twenty-first century: epinephrine auto-injector development using human factors engineering.

PubMed

Edwards, Eric S; Edwards, Evan T; Simons, F Estelle R; North, Robert

2015-05-01

The systematic application of human factors engineering (HFE) principles to the development of drug-device combination products, including epinephrine auto-injectors (EAIs), has the potential to improve the effectiveness and safety of drug administration. A PubMed search was performed to assess the role of HFE in the development of drug-device combination products. The following keywords were used in different combinations: 'human factors engineering,' 'human factors,' 'medical products,' 'epinephrine/adrenaline auto-injector,' 'healthcare' and 'patient safety.' This review provides a summary of HFE principles and their application to the development of drug-device combination products as advised by the US FDA. It also describes the HFE process that was applied to the development of Auvi-Q, a novel EAI, highlighting specific steps that occurred during the product-development program. For drug-device combination products, device labeling and usability are critical and have the potential to impact clinical outcomes. Application of HFE principles to the development of drug-delivery devices has the potential to improve product quality and reliability, reduce risk and improve patient safety when applied early in the development process. Additional clinical and real-world studies will confirm whether the application of HFE has helped to develop an EAI that better meets the needs of patients at risk of anaphylaxis.

Design of high productivity antibody capture by protein A chromatography using an integrated experimental and modeling approach.

PubMed

Ng, Candy K S; Osuna-Sanchez, Hector; Valéry, Eric; Sørensen, Eva; Bracewell, Daniel G

2012-06-15

An integrated experimental and modeling approach for the design of high productivity protein A chromatography is presented to maximize productivity in bioproduct manufacture. The approach consists of four steps: (1) small-scale experimentation, (2) model parameter estimation, (3) productivity optimization and (4) model validation with process verification. The integrated use of process experimentation and modeling enables fewer experiments to be performed, and thus minimizes the time and materials required in order to gain process understanding, which is of key importance during process development. The application of the approach is demonstrated for the capture of antibody by a novel silica-based high performance protein A adsorbent named AbSolute. In the example, a series of pulse injections and breakthrough experiments were performed to develop a lumped parameter model, which was then used to find the best design that optimizes the productivity of a batch protein A chromatographic process for human IgG capture. An optimum productivity of 2.9 kg L⁻¹ day⁻¹ for a column of 5mm diameter and 8.5 cm length was predicted, and subsequently verified experimentally, completing the whole process design approach in only 75 person-hours (or approximately 2 weeks). Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Development of newly enriched bread with quinoa flour and whey

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salazar, D. M.; Naranjo, M.; Pérez, L. V.; Valencia, A. F.; Acurio, L. P.; Gallegos, L. M.; Alvarez, F. C.; Amancha, P. I.; Valencia, M. P.; Rodriguez, C. A.; Arancibia, M. Y.

2017-07-01

Ecuador, Bolivia, and Peru are countries with the highest amount of quinoa production in the world due to the proximity to the Andes. Further, Ecuador has a high production of dairy products, particularly fresh cheese of which production gives a high volume of whey, without further use, with the consequent loss of their nutritional value. The present study was performed to develop a new fortified bread through the incorporation of quinoa flour and whey at three different concentrations. The use of quinoa and whey improved the texture, shelf life and sensory characteristics of bread, compared to those prepared with wheat flour. This study shows the potential of quinoa flour and whey as ingredients in the development of baked products.

Pharmaceutical Product Lead Optimization for Better In vivo Bioequivalence Performance: A case study of Diclofenac Sodium Extended Release Matrix Tablets.

PubMed

Shahiwala, Aliasgar; Zarar, Aisha

2018-01-01

In order to prove the validity of a new formulation, a considerable amount of effort is required to study bioequivalence, which not only increases the burden of carrying out a number of bioequivalence studies but also eventually increases the cost of the optimization process. The aim of the present study was to develop sustained release matrix tablets containing diclofenac sodium using natural polymers and to demonstrate step by step process of product development till the prediction of in vivo marketed product equivalence of the developed product. Different batches of tablets were prepared by direct compression. In vitro drug release studies were performed as per USP. The drug release data were assessed using model-dependent, modelindependent and convolution approaches. Drug release profiles showed that extended release action were in the following order: Gum Tragacanth > Sodium Alginate > Gum Acacia. Amongst the different batches prepared, only F1 and F8 passed the USP criteria of drug release. Developed formulas were found to fit Higuchi kinetics model with Fickian (case I) diffusion-mediated release mechanism. Model- independent kinetics confirmed that total of four batches were passed depending on the similarity factors based on the comparison with the marketed Diclofenac. The results of in vivo predictive convolution model indicated that predicted AUC, Cmax and Tmax values for batch F8 were similar to that of marketed product. This study provides simple yet effective outline of pharmaceutical product development process that will minimize the formulation development trials and maximize the product success in bioequivalence studies. Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.org.

Sustainability of cross-functional teams for marketing strategy development and implementation.

PubMed

Kono, Ken; Antonucci, Don

2006-01-01

This article presents a case study on a cross-functional team used for marketing strategy development and execution at a health insurance company. The study found a set of success factors that contributed to the initial success of the team, but the factors were not enough to maintain the team's high level of productivity over time. The study later identified a set of 8 factors that helped sustain the team's high-productivity level. The 2 sets (ie, success and its subsequent sustainability factors) are analyzed against a normative model of team effectiveness. All the factors are explained by the normative model except for 1 sustainability factor, "challenge motivator." In fact, the study found the "challenge motivator" to be the most critical factor to keep up the team's productivity over time. Apart from a performance crisis, the authors developed 3 "challenge motivators"--first, more granular market information that could unearth hidden performance issues; second, constant value creation to shareholders as the firm being publicly traded; and third, the firm's strategic mandate to meet and exceed customer expectations that puts ultimate performance pressure on the marketing strategy team.

DETERMINING THE VOCATIONAL NEEDS IN AGRICULTURE OF BEGINNING AND PROSPECTIVE FARMERS IN NEWLY DEVELOPED AREAS IN ISRAEL.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

KATZ, GIDEON

THE OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY WERE TO (1) IDENTIFY PRINCIPAL FARM JOBS IN PRODUCTION ENTERPRISES, (2) DETERMINE THE ACTUAL PERFORMER OF THESE JOBS ON MOSHAV FARMS, (3) ASCERTAIN THE IDEAL PERFORMER OF THESE JOBS, (4) CLASSIFY JOBS IN TERMS OF ACTUAL AND IDEAL PERFORMERS, AND (5) DRAW IMPLICATIONS FOR CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT. LISTS OF FARM JOBS WERE…

Performance Support on the Shop Floor.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kasvi, Jyrki J. J.; Vartiainen, Matti

2000-01-01

Discussion of performance support on the shop floor highlights four support systems for assembly lines that incorporate personal computer workstations in local area networks and use multimedia documents. Considers new customer-focused production paradigms; organizational learning; knowledge development; and electronic performance support systems…

Lot sizing and unequal-sized shipment policy for an integrated production-inventory system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Giri, B. C.; Sharma, S.

2014-05-01

This article develops a single-manufacturer single-retailer production-inventory model in which the manufacturer delivers the retailer's ordered quantity in unequal shipments. The manufacturer's production process is imperfect and it may produce some defective items during a production run. The retailer performs a screening process immediately after receiving the order from the manufacturer. The expected average total cost of the integrated production-inventory system is derived using renewal theory and a solution procedure is suggested to determine the optimal production and shipment policy. An extensive numerical study based on different sets of parameter values is conducted and the optimal results so obtained are analysed to examine the relative performance of the models under equal and unequal shipment policies.

The Body of Knowledge & Content Framework. Identifying the Important Knowledge Required for Productive Performance of a Plastics Machine Operator. Blow Molding, Extrusion, Injection Molding, Thermoforming.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Society of the Plastics Industry, Inc., Washington, DC.

Designed to guide training and curriculum development to prepare machine operators for the national certification exam, this publication identifies the important knowledge required for productive performance by a plastics machine operator. Introductory material discusses the rationale for a national standard, uses of the Body of Knowledge,…

Image processing system performance prediction and product quality evaluation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stein, E. K.; Hammill, H. B. (Principal Investigator)

1976-01-01

The author has identified the following significant results. A new technique for image processing system performance prediction and product quality evaluation was developed. It was entirely objective, quantitative, and general, and should prove useful in system design and quality control. The technique and its application to determination of quality control procedures for the Earth Resources Technology Satellite NASA Data Processing Facility are described.

Separation of tartronic and glyceric acids by simulated moving bed chromatography.

PubMed

Coelho, Lucas C D; Filho, Nelson M L; Faria, Rui P V; Ferreira, Alexandre F P; Ribeiro, Ana M; Rodrigues, Alírio E

2018-08-17

The SMB unit developed by the Laboratory of Separation and Reaction Engineering (FlexSMB-LSRE ® ) was used to perform tartronic acid (TTA) and glyceric acid (GCA) separation and to validate the mathematical model in order to determine the optimum operating parameters of an industrial unit. The purity of the raffinate and extract streams in the experiments performed were 80% and 100%, respectively. The TTA and GCA productivities were 79 and 115 kg per liter of adsorbent per day, respectively and only 0.50 cubic meters of desorbent were required per kilogram of products. Under the optimum operating conditions, which were determined through an extensive simulation study based on the mathematical model developed to predict the performance of a real SMB unit, it was possible to achieve a productivity of 86 kg of TTA and 176 kg of GCA per cubic meter of adsorbent per day (considering the typical commercial purity value of 97% for both compounds) with an eluent consumption of 0.30 cubic meters per kilogram of products. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Controlling systems for operating room managers].

PubMed

Schüpfer, G; Bauer, M; Scherzinger, B; Schleppers, A

2005-08-01

Management means developing, shaping and controlling of complex, productive and social systems. Therefore, operating room managers also need to develop basic skills in financial and managerial accounting as a basis for operative and strategic controlling which is an essential part of their work. A good measurement system should include financial and strategic concepts for market position, innovation performance, productivity, attractiveness, liquidity/cash flow and profitability. Since hospitals need to implement a strategy to reach their business objectives, the performance measurement system has to be individually adapted to the strategy of the hospital. In this respect the navigation system developed by Gälweiler is compared to the "balanced score card" system of Kaplan and Norton.

The role of language in mathematical development: evidence from children with specific language impairments.

PubMed

Donlan, Chris; Cowan, Richard; Newton, Elizabeth J; Lloyd, Delyth

2007-04-01

A sample (n=48) of eight-year-olds with specific language impairments is compared with age-matched (n=55) and language matched controls (n=55) on a range of tasks designed to test the interdependence of language and mathematical development. Performance across tasks varies substantially in the SLI group, showing profound deficits in production of the count word sequence and basic calculation and significant deficits in understanding of the place-value principle in Hindu-Arabic notation. Only in understanding of arithmetic principles does SLI performance approximate that of age-matched-controls, indicating that principled understanding can develop even where number sequence production and other aspects of number processing are severely compromised.

Study on the Key Factor Parameters to Increase Productivity in Construction and Manufacturing Industries.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Almazyed, K.; Alaswad, A.; Olabi, A. G.

2016-02-01

Proper management of human and non-human resources in construction and manufacturing projects can give-in considerable savings in time and cost. Construction and Manufacturing industry faces issues in connection with problems related with productivity and the problems are usually connected with performance of employees. The performance of employees is affected by many factors. In this paper a survey was made on respondents who are employed various projects of Saudi Arabia. The researcher developed a theoretical framework from the existing research which was used as a Model to collect and analyze the field data to test the hypothesis. In this research activity three predictors (commitment, job satisfaction and job performance) for determining the change in productivity. The results highlight that commitment and job performance (respectively) are the two predictors which are explaining 37% of variation in the productivity of the companies. The results also show that Job Satisfaction has no role in the prediction of productivity.

A potential disruptive technology in vaccine development: gene-based vaccines and their application to infectious diseases.

PubMed

Kaslow, David C

2004-10-01

Vaccine development requires an amalgamation of disparate disciplines and has unique economic and regulatory drivers. Non-viral gene-based delivery systems, such as formulated plasmid DNA, are new and potentially disruptive technologies capable of providing 'cheaper, simpler, and more convenient-to-use' vaccines. Typically and somewhat ironically, disruptive technologies have poorer product performance, at least in the near-term, compared with the existing conventional technologies. Because successful product development requires that the product's performance must meet or exceed the efficacy threshold for a desired application, the appropriate selection of the initial product applications for a disruptive technology is critical for its successful evolution. In this regard, the near-term successes of gene-based vaccines will likely be for protection against bacterial toxins and acute viral and bacterial infections. Recent breakthroughs, however, herald increasing rather than languishing performance improvements in the efficacy of gene-based vaccines. Whether gene-based vaccines ultimately succeed in eliciting protective immunity in humans to persistent intracellular pathogens, such as HIV, malaria and tuberculosis, for which the conventional vaccine technologies have failed, remains to be determined. A success against any one of the persistent intracellular pathogens would be sufficient proof that gene-based vaccines represent a disruptive technology against which future vaccine technologies will be measured.

Improved milk production performance of smallholder farms in West Java (Indonesia).

PubMed

Sembada, Pria; Duteurtre, Guillaume; Purwanto, Bagus Priyo; Suryahadi

2016-04-01

In Indonesia, because of the rapidly growing demand for dairy products, the development of milk production in rural communities can play a strong role in reducing poverty. However, the development of smallholder dairy production requires adequate support from the government, development organizations, and private firms. To assess the needs and situations of poor dairy farmers, we conducted a study in Ciater sub-district in West Java Province to compare the current situation with the situation that prevailed 4 years ago, i.e., before the implementation of a dairy development project. Data were collected from 61 farms in June 2014. The average number of cows on the farms surveyed was three to four, and each relied on cultivating an average of 0.4 ha of forage. Results showed that thanks to the project activities, milk productivity per cow and net income from milk production increased by 25% between 2010 and 2014. These results underline the importance of providing training and technical support for the development of the livelihoods of dairy smallholders.

Life-Cycle Inventory Analysis of Laminated Veneer Lumber Production in the United States

Treesearch

Richard D. Bergman

2015-01-01

Documenting the environmental performance of building products is becoming increasingly common. Developing environmental product declarations (EPDs) based on life-cycle assessment (LCA) data is one way to provide scientific documentation. Many U.S. structural wood products have LCA-based “eco-labels” using the ISO standard. However, the standard requires underlying...

Risk management in technovigilance: construction and validation of a medical-hospital product evaluation instrument.

PubMed

Kuwabara, Cleuza Catsue Takeda; Evora, Yolanda Dora Martinez; de Oliveira, Márcio Mattos Borges

2010-01-01

With the continuous incorporation of health technologies, hospital risk management should be implemented to systemize the monitoring of adverse effects, performing actions to control and eliminate their damage. As part of these actions, Technovigilance is active in the procedures of acquisition, use and quality control of health products and equipment. This study aimed to construct and validate an instrument to evaluate medical-hospital products. This is a quantitative, exploratory, longitudinal and methodological development study, based on the Six Sigma quality management model, which has as its principle basis the component stages of the DMAIC Cycle. For data collection and content validation, the Delphi technique was used with professionals from the Brazilian Sentinel Hospital Network. It was concluded that the instrument developed permitted the evaluation of the product, differentiating between the results of the tested brands, in line with the initial study goal of qualifying the evaluations performed.

Performance Indicators in Distance Education: National Seminar Report, 1996 (New Delhi, India, July 3-4, 1996).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Prasad, V. S.; Rausaria, R. R.; Lele, Nalini A.; Bhushan, Bharat

The papers from this seminar focused on the role of performance indicators in distance education, particularly the planning, development, production, and distribution of performance indicators. The papers are: (1) "Inaugural Address" (G. Dhanarajan); (2) "Presidential Address" (R. G. Takwale); (3) "Performance Indicators…

Flat-plate solar array project. Volume 5: Process development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gallagher, B.; Alexander, P.; Burger, D.

1986-01-01

The goal of the Process Development Area, as part of the Flat-Plate Solar Array (FSA) Project, was to develop and demonstrate solar cell fabrication and module assembly process technologies required to meet the cost, lifetime, production capacity, and performance goals of the FSA Project. R&D efforts expended by Government, Industry, and Universities in developing processes capable of meeting the projects goals during volume production conditions are summarized. The cost goals allocated for processing were demonstrated by small volume quantities that were extrapolated by cost analysis to large volume production. To provide proper focus and coverage of the process development effort, four separate technology sections are discussed: surface preparation, junction formation, metallization, and module assembly.

Remote operated vehicle with CO{sub 2} blasting (ROVCO{sub 2}): Volume 1. Final report, September 1993--July 1996

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

NONE

1996-06-01

This report documents the second phase of the Remote Operated Vehicle with CO{sub 2} Blasting (ROVCO{sub 2}) Program. The ROVCO{sub 2} Program`s goal is to develop and demonstrate a tool to improve the productivity of concrete floor decontamination. The second phase integrated non-developmental subsystems on to the ROVCO{sub 2} system and performed quantitative decontamination effectiveness, productivity, and reliability testings. The report documents these development activities and the analysis of cost and performance. The results show that the ROVCO{sub 2} system is an efficient decontamination tool.

Development and construction of low-cracking high-performance concrete (LC-HPC) bridge decks : free shrinkage, moisture optimization and concrete production : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-08-01

The development and evaluation of low-cracking high-performance concrete (LC-HPC) for use in bridge decks : is described based on laboratory test results and experience gained during the construction of 14 bridges. This report : emphasizes the materi...

Development and construction of low-cracking high-performance concrete (LC-HPC) bridge decks : free shrinkage, moisture optimization and concrete production : summary report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2009-08-01

The development and evaluation of low-cracking high-performance concrete (LC-HPC) for use in bridge decks : is described based on laboratory test results and experience gained during the construction of 14 bridges. This report : emphasizes the materi...

Repurposing Existing Material for Performance Support.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harvey, Francis A.; Nelson, Adam

1995-01-01

Presents an overview of performance support systems (PSS), describes their role in promoting productivity in agile organizations, and discusses issues related to developing effective performance support using existing orientation, training, or procedural manuals. Topics include strategic principles of agility, and adding value when incorporating…

Stochastic Modeling and Analysis of Multiple Nonlinear Accelerated Degradation Processes through Information Fusion

PubMed Central

Sun, Fuqiang; Liu, Le; Li, Xiaoyang; Liao, Haitao

2016-01-01

Accelerated degradation testing (ADT) is an efficient technique for evaluating the lifetime of a highly reliable product whose underlying failure process may be traced by the degradation of the product’s performance parameters with time. However, most research on ADT mainly focuses on a single performance parameter. In reality, the performance of a modern product is usually characterized by multiple parameters, and the degradation paths are usually nonlinear. To address such problems, this paper develops a new s-dependent nonlinear ADT model for products with multiple performance parameters using a general Wiener process and copulas. The general Wiener process models the nonlinear ADT data, and the dependency among different degradation measures is analyzed using the copula method. An engineering case study on a tuner’s ADT data is conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. The results illustrate that the proposed method is quite effective in estimating the lifetime of a product with s-dependent performance parameters. PMID:27509499

Advanced Manufacturing and Value-added Products from US Agriculture

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Villet, Ruxton H.; Child, Dennis R.; Acock, Basil

1992-01-01

An objective of the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agriculture Research Service (ARS) is to develop technology leading to a broad portfolio of value-added marketable products. Modern scientific disciplines such as chemical engineering are brought into play to develop processes for converting bulk commodities into high-margin products. To accomplish this, the extremely sophisticated processing devices which form the basis of modern biotechnology, namely, genes and enzymes, can be tailored to perform the required functions. The USDA/ARS is a leader in the development of intelligent processing equipment (IPE) for agriculture in the broadest sense. Applications of IPE are found in the production, processing, grading, and marketing aspects of agriculture. Various biotechnology applications of IPE are discussed.

19 CFR 10.178 - Direct costs of processing operations performed in the beneficiary developing country.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

..., production, manufacture, or assembly of the specific merchandise under consideration. Such costs include, but are not limited to: (1) All actual labor costs involved in the growth, production, manufacture, or... specific merchandise or are not related to the growth, production, manufacture, or assembly of the...

Sentinel-2 Level 2A Prototype Processor: Architecture, Algorithms And First Results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muller-Wilm, Uwe; Louis, Jerome; Richter, Rudolf; Gascon, Ferran; Niezette, Marc

2013-12-01

Sen2Core is a prototype processor for Sentinel-2 Level 2A product processing and formatting. The processor is developed for and with ESA and performs the tasks of Atmospheric Correction and Scene Classification of Level 1C input data. Level 2A outputs are: Bottom-Of- Atmosphere (BOA) corrected reflectance images, Aerosol Optical Thickness-, Water Vapour-, Scene Classification maps and Quality indicators, including cloud and snow probabilities. The Level 2A Product Formatting performed by the processor follows the specification of the Level 1C User Product.

A Machine Vision Quality Control System for Industrial Acrylic Fibre Production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heleno, Paulo; Davies, Roger; Correia, Bento A. Brázio; Dinis, João

2002-12-01

This paper describes the implementation of INFIBRA, a machine vision system used in the quality control of acrylic fibre production. The system was developed by INETI under a contract with a leading industrial manufacturer of acrylic fibres. It monitors several parameters of the acrylic production process. This paper presents, after a brief overview of the system, a detailed description of the machine vision algorithms developed to perform the inspection tasks unique to this system. Some of the results of online operation are also presented.

Configuration management plan. System definition and project development. Repository Based Software Engineering (RBSE) program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mckay, Charles

1991-01-01

This is the configuration management Plan for the AdaNet Repository Based Software Engineering (RBSE) contract. This document establishes the requirements and activities needed to ensure that the products developed for the AdaNet RBSE contract are accurately identified, that proposed changes to the product are systematically evaluated and controlled, that the status of all change activity is known at all times, and that the product achieves its functional performance requirements and is accurately documented.

Center for Coal-Derived Low Energy Materials for Sustainable Construction

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

Jewell, Robert; Robl, Tom; Rathbone, Robert

2012-06-30

The overarching goal of this project was to create a sustained center to support the continued development of new products and industries that manufacture construction materials from coal combustion by-products or CCB’s (e.g., cements, grouts, wallboard, masonry block, fillers, roofing materials, etc). Specific objectives includes the development of a research kiln and associated system and the formulation and production of high performance low-energy, low-CO2 emitting calcium sulfoaluminate (CAS) cement that utilize coal combustion byproducts as raw materials.

Risk Assessment at the Cosmetic Product Manufacturer by Expert Judgment Method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vtorushina, A. N.; Larionova, E. V.; Mezenceva, I. L.; Nikonova, E. D.

2017-05-01

A case study was performed in a cosmetic product manufacturer. We have identified the main risk factors of occupational accidents and their causes. Risk of accidents is assessed by the expert judgment method. Event tree for the most probable accident is built and recommendations on improvement of occupational health and safety protection system at the cosmetic product manufacturer are developed. The results of this paper can be used to develop actions to improve the occupational safety and health system in the chemical industry.

Mastoidectomy performance assessment of virtual simulation training using final-product analysis.

PubMed

Andersen, Steven A W; Cayé-Thomasen, Per; Sørensen, Mads S

2015-02-01

The future development of integrated automatic assessment in temporal bone virtual surgical simulators calls for validation against currently established assessment tools. This study aimed to explore the relationship between mastoidectomy final-product performance assessment in virtual simulation and traditional dissection training. Prospective trial with blinding. A total of 34 novice residents performed a mastoidectomy on the Visible Ear Simulator and on a cadaveric temporal bone. Two blinded senior otologists assessed the final-product performance using a modified Welling scale. The simulator gathered basic metrics on time, steps, and volumes in relation to the on-screen tutorial and collisions with vital structures. Substantial inter-rater reliability (kappa = 0.77) for virtual simulation and moderate inter-rater reliability (kappa = 0.59) for dissection final-product assessment was found. The simulation and dissection performance scores had significant correlation (P = .014). None of the basic simulator metrics correlated significantly with the final-product score except for number of steps completed in the simulator. A modified version of a validated final-product performance assessment tool can be used to assess mastoidectomy on virtual temporal bones. Performance assessment of virtual mastoidectomy could potentially save the use of cadaveric temporal bones for more advanced training when a basic level of competency in simulation has been achieved. NA. © 2014 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

Energy index decomposition methodology at the plant level

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumphai, Wisit

Scope and method of study. The dissertation explores the use of a high level energy intensity index as a facility-level energy performance monitoring indicator with a goal of developing a methodology for an economically based energy performance monitoring system that incorporates production information. The performance measure closely monitors energy usage, production quantity, and product mix and determines the production efficiency as a part of an ongoing process that would enable facility managers to keep track of and, in the future, be able to predict when to perform a recommissioning process. The study focuses on the use of the index decomposition methodology and explored several high level (industry, sector, and country levels) energy utilization indexes, namely, Additive Log Mean Divisia, Multiplicative Log Mean Divisia, and Additive Refined Laspeyres. One level of index decomposition is performed. The indexes are decomposed into Intensity and Product mix effects. These indexes are tested on a flow shop brick manufacturing plant model in three different climates in the United States. The indexes obtained are analyzed by fitting an ARIMA model and testing for dependency between the two decomposed indexes. Findings and conclusions. The results concluded that the Additive Refined Laspeyres index decomposition methodology is suitable to use on a flow shop, non air conditioned production environment as an energy performance monitoring indicator. It is likely that this research can be further expanded in to predicting when to perform a recommissioning process.

Excavation on the Moon: Regolith Collection for Oxygen Production and Outpost Site Preparation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Caruso, John J.; Spina, Dan C.; Greer, Lawrence C.; John, Wentworth T.; Michele, Clem; Krasowski, Mike J.; Prokop, Norman F.

2008-01-01

The development of a robust regolith moving system for lunar and planetary processing and construction is critical to the NASA mission to the Moon and Mars. Oxygen production may require up to 200 metric tons of regolith collection per year; outpost site development may require several times this amount. This paper describes progress in the small vehicle implement development and small excavation system development. Cratos was developed as a platform for the ISRU project to evaluate the performance characteristics of a low center of gravity, small (0.75m x 0.75m x 0.3m), low-power, tracked vehicle performing excavation, load, haul, and dump operations required for lunar ISRU. It was tested on loose sand in a facility capable of producing level and inclined surfaces, and demonstrated the capability to pick up, carry, and dump sand, allowing it to accomplish the delivery of material to a site. Cratos has demonstrated the capability to pick up and deliver simulant to a bury an inflatable habitat, to supply an oxygen production plant, and to build a ramp.

Anti-Biofilm Performance of Three Natural Products against Initial Bacterial Attachment

PubMed Central

Salta, Maria; Wharton, Julian A.; Dennington, Simon P.; Stoodley, Paul; Stokes, Keith R.

2013-01-01

Marine bacteria contribute significantly towards the fouling consortium, both directly (modern foul release coatings fail to prevent “slime” attachment) and indirectly (biofilms often excrete chemical cues that attract macrofouling settlement). This study assessed the natural product anti-biofilm performance of an extract of the seaweed, Chondrus crispus, and two isolated compounds from terrestrial sources, (+)-usnic acid and juglone, against two marine biofilm forming bacteria, Cobetia marina and Marinobacter hydrocarbonoclasticus. Bioassays were developed using quantitative imaging and fluorescent labelling to test the natural products over a range of concentrations against initial bacterial attachment. All natural products affected bacterial attachment; however, juglone demonstrated the best anti-biofilm performance against both bacterial species at a concentration range between 5–20 ppm. In addition, for the first time, a dose-dependent inhibition (hormetic) response was observed for natural products against marine biofilm forming bacteria. PMID:24192819

Risk mitigation process for utilization of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) parts in CCD camera for military applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmad, Anees; Batcheldor, Scott; Cannon, Steven C.; Roberts, Thomas E.

2002-09-01

This paper presents the lessons learned during the design and development of a high performance cooled CCD camera for military applications utilizing common commercial off the shelf (COTS) parts. Our experience showed that concurrent evaluation and testing of high risk COTS must be performed to assess their performance over the required temperature range and other special product requirements such as fuel vapor compatibility, EMI and shock susceptibility, etc. Technical, cost and schedule risks for COTS parts must also be carefully evaluated. The customer must be involved in the selection and evaluation of such parts so that the performance limitations of the selected parts are clearly understood. It is equally important to check with vendors on the availability and obsolescence of the COTS parts being considered since the electronic components are often replaced by newer, better and cheaper models in a couple of years. In summary, this paper addresses the major benefits and risks associated with using commercial and industrial parts in military products, and suggests a risk mitigation approach to ensure a smooth development phase, and predictable performance from the end product.

Comparison of rainfall products over Africa

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Coz, Camille; van de Giesen, Nick

2017-04-01

There are many rainfall products available, some of them are global and others have been developed specifically for Africa or another region. They are based on different methods and use different sources of data. All these products have different advantages and limitations and they are suitable for different purposes, like climate or drought monitoring. They can be divided in three categories: the gauge-only products, the satellite-based products and the reanalyses products. These different types of products are compared through literature study in order to find their strengths and weaknesses. The performance of each product varies from region to region, the behaviour of a product can be very different over two separate regions. The gauge-only products are dependent on the gauge coverage which is poor in many regions of Africa. The performance of the satellite-based products are influenced by several factors such as the orography, the rainfall regime and the gauge density (for the ones using them). The reanalyses products are outperformed by the other products but can be improved through downscaling.

48 CFR 9.701 - Definition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 9.701 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION ACQUISITION PLANNING CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS Defense Production Pools and Research and Development Pools 9.701 Definition. Pool... order to obtain and perform, jointly or in conjunction with each other, defense production or research...

48 CFR 9.701 - Definition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 9.701 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION ACQUISITION PLANNING CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS Defense Production Pools and Research and Development Pools 9.701 Definition. Pool... order to obtain and perform, jointly or in conjunction with each other, defense production or research...

48 CFR 9.701 - Definition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 9.701 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION ACQUISITION PLANNING CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS Defense Production Pools and Research and Development Pools 9.701 Definition. Pool... order to obtain and perform, jointly or in conjunction with each other, defense production or research...

48 CFR 9.701 - Definition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 9.701 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION ACQUISITION PLANNING CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS Defense Production Pools and Research and Development Pools 9.701 Definition. Pool... order to obtain and perform, jointly or in conjunction with each other, defense production or research...

48 CFR 9.701 - Definition.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 9.701 Federal Acquisition Regulations System FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION ACQUISITION PLANNING CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS Defense Production Pools and Research and Development Pools 9.701 Definition. Pool... order to obtain and perform, jointly or in conjunction with each other, defense production or research...

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

Unat, Didem; Dubey, Anshu; Hoefler, Torsten

The cost of data movement has always been an important concern in high performance computing (HPC) systems. It has now become the dominant factor in terms of both energy consumption and performance. Support for expression of data locality has been explored in the past, but those efforts have had only modest success in being adopted in HPC applications for various reasons. However, with the increasing complexity of the memory hierarchy and higher parallelism in emerging HPC systems, locality management has acquired a new urgency. Developers can no longer limit themselves to low-level solutions and ignore the potential for productivity andmore » performance portability obtained by using locality abstractions. Fortunately, the trend emerging in recent literature on the topic alleviates many of the concerns that got in the way of their adoption by application developers. Data locality abstractions are available in the forms of libraries, data structures, languages and runtime systems; a common theme is increasing productivity without sacrificing performance. Furthermore, this paper examines these trends and identifies commonalities that can combine various locality concepts to develop a comprehensive approach to expressing and managing data locality on future large-scale high-performance computing systems.« less

Understanding pressurized metered dose inhaler performance.

PubMed

Ivey, James W; Vehring, Reinhard; Finlay, Warren H

2015-06-01

Deepening the current understanding of the factors governing the performance of the pressurized metered dose inhaler (pMDI) has the potential to benefit patients by providing improved drugs for current indications as well as by enabling new areas of therapy. Although a great deal of work has been conducted to this end, our knowledge of the physical mechanisms that drive pMDI performance remains incomplete. This review focuses on research into the influence of device and formulation variables on pMDI performance metrics. Literature in the areas of dose metering, atomization and aerosol evolution and deposition is covered, with an emphasis on studies of a more fundamental nature. Simple models which may be of use to those developing pMDI products are summarized. Although researchers have had good success utilizing an empirically developed knowledge base to predict pMDI performance, such knowledge may not be applicable when pursuing innovations in device or formulation technology. Developing a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms is a worthwhile investment for those working to enable the next generation of pMDI products.

The use of large databases to inform the development of an intestinal scoring system for the poultry industry.

PubMed

Kasab-Bachi, H; Arruda, A G; Roberts, T E; Wilson, J B

2017-10-01

There is increasing interest among the poultry industry to develop a comprehensive index that can be used to evaluate overall intestinal health and impact on production performance. The Intestinal Integrity (I 2 ) index is a quantitative measurement tool used to assess the intestinal health of flocks that use the Health Tracking System (HTSi), a global surveillance system developed by Elanco Animal Health that captures flock-level information on health and performance. To generate an I 2 index score for a flock, the presence of 23 intestinal health conditions is assessed and recorded, then entered into a mathematical equation. The objective of this study was to use data from the HTSi dataset to investigate the association between health conditions contained within the I 2 index and five performance outcomes: average daily gain (ADG), mortality during the first week, feed conversion ratio (FCR), European Production Efficiency Factor (EPEF), and percent livability. At the time of analysis, the HTSi dataset contained information from the years 2006-2015 on 921,646 individual bird necropsy records from over 153,576 flocks at 1,570 broiler production flows across 53 countries. Flock-level production data used for this study were available for a subset of this population, 33,212 total flocks representing 6 US and 4 UK production flows. A separate multivariable linear or logistic regression model, with farm as a random effect, was built for each of the five outcomes mentioned above. All models controlled for clustering of flocks within production flows. Significant associations were found between key performance indicators and ten intestinal conditions (gross E. acervulina, gross E. maxima, microscopic E. maxima, gizzard erosions, roundworms, excessive intestinal fluid, thin intestines, excessive intestinal mucus, feed passage, and necrotic enteritis) and two management parameters (production flow and down time). Results from this study demonstrate that large databases, such as the HTSi database, can be used to inform and evaluate changes that can optimize intestinal health, and hence welfare, productivity, and sustainability of the poultry industry. In addition, large databases can be used for monitoring and benchmarking intestinal health of poultry and informing the development of innovative indices such as the I 2 index for scoring intestinal health and providing routine data for its calculation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Nanocomposites for Machining Tools

PubMed Central

Loginov, Pavel; Mishnaevsky, Leon; Levashov, Evgeny

2017-01-01

Machining tools are used in many areas of production. To a considerable extent, the performance characteristics of the tools determine the quality and cost of obtained products. The main materials used for producing machining tools are steel, cemented carbides, ceramics and superhard materials. A promising way to improve the performance characteristics of these materials is to design new nanocomposites based on them. The application of micromechanical modeling during the elaboration of composite materials for machining tools can reduce the financial and time costs for development of new tools, with enhanced performance. This article reviews the main groups of nanocomposites for machining tools and their performance. PMID:29027926

Results of data base management system parameterized performance testing related to GSFC scientific applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carchedi, C. H.; Gough, T. L.; Huston, H. A.

1983-01-01

The results of a variety of tests designed to demonstrate and evaluate the performance of several commercially available data base management system (DBMS) products compatible with the Digital Equipment Corporation VAX 11/780 computer system are summarized. The tests were performed on the INGRES, ORACLE, and SEED DBMS products employing applications that were similar to scientific applications under development by NASA. The objectives of this testing included determining the strength and weaknesses of the candidate systems, performance trade-offs of various design alternatives and the impact of some installation and environmental (computer related) influences.

Advances in life cycle assessment and emergy evaluation with case studies in gold mining and pineapple production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ingwersen, Wesley W.

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is an internationally standardized framework for assessing the environmental impacts of products that is rapidly evolving to improve understanding and quantification of how complex product systems depend upon and affect the environment. This dissertation contributes to that evolution through the development of new methods for measuring impacts, estimating the uncertainty of impacts, and measuring ranges of environmental performance, with a focus on product systems in non-OECD countries that have not been well characterized. The integration of a measure of total energy use, emergy, is demonstrated in an LCA of gold from the Yanacocha mine in Peru in the second chapter. A model for estimating the accuracy of emergy results is proposed in the following chapter. The fourth chapter presents a template for LCA-based quantification of the range of environmental performance for tropical agricultural products using the example of fresh pineapple production for export in Costa Rica that can be used to create product labels with environmental information. The final chapter synthesizes how each methodological contribution will together improve the science of measuring product environmental performance.

Development and quality characteristics of shelf-stable soy-agushie: a residual by-product of soymilk production.

PubMed

Nti, Christina A; Plahar, Wisdom A; Annan, Nana T

2016-03-01

A process was developed for the production of a high-protein food ingredient, soy-agushie, from the residual by-product of soymilk production. The product, with a moisture content of about 6%, was evaluated for its quality characteristics and performance in traditional dishes. The protein content was about 26% with similar amino acids content as that of the whole soybean. Lysine remained high in the dehydrated product (6.57 g/16 g N). While over 60% of the original B vitamins content in the beans was extracted with the milk, high proportions of the minerals were found to be retained in the residual by-product. The process adequately reduced the trypsin inhibitor levels in the beans from 25 to 1.5 mg/g. High sensory scores were obtained for recipes developed with soy-agushie in traditional dishes. The scope of utilization of the soy-agushie could be widened to include several traditional foods and bakery products for maximum nutritional benefits.

Pharmaceutical product development: A quality by design approach

PubMed Central

Pramod, Kannissery; Tahir, M. Abu; Charoo, Naseem A.; Ansari, Shahid H.; Ali, Javed

2016-01-01

The application of quality by design (QbD) in pharmaceutical product development is now a thrust area for the regulatory authorities and the pharmaceutical industry. International Conference on Harmonization and United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) emphasized the principles and applications of QbD in pharmaceutical development in their guidance for the industry. QbD attributes are addressed in question-based review, developed by USFDA for chemistry, manufacturing, and controls section of abbreviated new drug applications. QbD principles, when implemented, lead to a successful product development, subsequent prompt regulatory approval, reduce exhaustive validation burden, and significantly reduce post-approval changes. The key elements of QbD viz., target product quality profile, critical quality attributes, risk assessments, design space, control strategy, product lifecycle management, and continual improvement are discussed to understand the performance of dosage forms within design space. Design of experiments, risk assessment tools, and process analytical technology are also discussed for their role in QbD. This review underlines the importance of QbD in inculcating science-based approach in pharmaceutical product development. PMID:27606256

Pharmaceutical product development: A quality by design approach.

PubMed

Pramod, Kannissery; Tahir, M Abu; Charoo, Naseem A; Ansari, Shahid H; Ali, Javed

2016-01-01

The application of quality by design (QbD) in pharmaceutical product development is now a thrust area for the regulatory authorities and the pharmaceutical industry. International Conference on Harmonization and United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) emphasized the principles and applications of QbD in pharmaceutical development in their guidance for the industry. QbD attributes are addressed in question-based review, developed by USFDA for chemistry, manufacturing, and controls section of abbreviated new drug applications. QbD principles, when implemented, lead to a successful product development, subsequent prompt regulatory approval, reduce exhaustive validation burden, and significantly reduce post-approval changes. The key elements of QbD viz., target product quality profile, critical quality attributes, risk assessments, design space, control strategy, product lifecycle management, and continual improvement are discussed to understand the performance of dosage forms within design space. Design of experiments, risk assessment tools, and process analytical technology are also discussed for their role in QbD. This review underlines the importance of QbD in inculcating science-based approach in pharmaceutical product development.

Prime mission results of the dual-frequency precipitation radar on the global precipitation measurement core spacecraft and the version 5 GPM standard products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Furukawa, K.; Nio, T.; Oki, R.; Kubota, T.; Iguchi, T.

2017-09-01

The Dual-frequency Precipitation Radar (DPR) on the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) core satellite was developed by Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT). The objective of the GPM mission is to observe global precipitation more frequently and accurately. The GPM core satellite is a joint product of National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), JAXA and NICT. NASA developed the satellite bus and the GPM Microwave Imager (GMI), and JAXA and NICT developed the DPR. The inclination of the GPM core satellite is 65 degrees, and the nominal flight altitude is 407 km. The non-sunsynchronous circular orbit is necessary for measuring the diurnal change of rainfall. The DPR consists of two radars, which are Ku-band precipitation radar (KuPR) and Ka-band precipitation radar (KaPR). GPM core observatory was successfully launched by H2A launch vehicle on Feb. 28, 2014. DPR orbital check out was completed in May 2014. DPR products were released to the public on Sep. 2, 2014 and Normal Observation Operation period was started. JAXA is continuing DPR trend monitoring, calibration and validation operations to confirm that DPR keeps its function and performance on orbit. The results of DPR trend monitoring, calibration and validation show that DPR kept its function and performance on orbit during the 3 years and 2 months prime mission period. The DPR Prime mission period was completed in May 2017. The version 5 GPM products were released to the public in 2017. JAXA confirmed that GPM/DPR total system performance and the GPM version 5 products achieved the success criteria and the performance indicators that were defined for the JAXA GPM/DPR mission.

New temperable solar coatings: Tempsol

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Demiryont, Hulya

2001-11-01

This paper deals with the large area deposition and coating properties of the thermo-stable (temperable/bendable) solar coating material, CuO, and some new optical coating systems comprising CuO films for architectural and automotive/transportation applications. The CuO solar coating is combined with other coating layers, for example, an anti-reflection film, a reflection film, a coloration coating layer, etc., which are also thermo-stable. The film systems are developed at the research laboratory by D.C. Magnetron reactive sputtering process. The new developed technologies then transferred to the production line. Product performances are compared before and after heat treatment of the coating systems. Performance tables and other physical properties, including optical parameters, mechanical and environmental stability, storage properties, etc., are also presented for this new product series.

Holy Trinity of Instrumentation Development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Uršič, Rok; Šolar, Borut

2004-11-01

Being user friendly should be the main guidance, beside the self-understood high performance, in today's instrumentation development. Here we identify three components of the user-friendly policy: the all-in-one concept, customization, and connectivity. All-in-one is the concept of unification of various building blocks and thus various functionalities in one product. The customization is enabled by the product's reconfigurability that allows a product to grow and support new requirements and applications without changing hardware. The consequence of the two is the capacity of the single instrument to perform a variety of tasks that before were split among different devices. The last of the three is connectivity that improves the relationship between controls and beam diagnostics, brings out-of-the-crate freedom, and opens unforeseen possibilities for intra-accelerator cooperation and remote technical support.

Microgravity: New opportunities to facilitate biotechnology development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Terry; Todd, Paul; Stodieck, Louis S.

1996-03-01

New opportunities exist to use the microgravity environment to facilitate biotechnology development. BioServe Space Technologies Center for the Commercial Development of Space offers access to microgravity environments for companies who wish to perform research or develop products in three specific life-science fields: Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Research, Biotechnology and Bioprocessing Research, and Agricultural and Environmental Research. Examples of each include physiological testing of new pharmaceutical countermeasures against symptoms that are exaggerated in space flight, crystallization and testing of novel, precompetitive biopharmaceutical substances in a convection-free environment, and closed life-support system product development.

Language in boys with fragile X syndrome.

PubMed

Levy, Yonata; Gottesman, Riki; Borochowitz, Zvi; Frydman, Moshe; Sagi, Michal

2006-02-01

The current paper reports of language production in 15 Hebrew-speaking boys, aged 9;0-13;0, with fully methylated, non-mosaic fragile X syndrome and no concomitant diagnosis of autism. Contrary to expectations, seven children were non-verbal. Language production in the verbal children was studied in free conversations and in context-bound speech. Despite extra caution in calculating MLU, participants' language level was not predicted by mean utterance length. Context bound speech resulted in grammatically more advanced performance than free conversation, and performance in both contexts differed in important ways from performance of typically developing MLU-matched controls. The relevance of MLU as a predictor of productive grammar in disordered populations is briefly discussed.

Advanced program development management software system. Software description and user's manual

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1990-01-01

The objectives of this project were to apply emerging techniques and tools from the computer science discipline of paperless management to the activities of the Space Transportation and Exploration Office (PT01) in Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Program Development, thereby enhancing the productivity of the workforce, the quality of the data products, and the collection, dissemination, and storage of information. The approach used to accomplish the objectives emphasized the utilization of finished form (off-the-shelf) software products to the greatest extent possible without impacting the performance of the end product, to pursue developments when necessary in the rapid prototyping environment to provide a mechanism for frequent feedback from the users, and to provide a full range of user support functions during the development process to promote testing of the software.

Estimating Prices of Products

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aster, R. W.; Chamberlain, R. G.; Zendejas, S. C.; Lee, T. S.; Malhotra, S.

1986-01-01

Company-wide or process-wide production simulated. Price Estimation Guidelines (IPEG) program provides simple, accurate estimates of prices of manufactured products. Simplification of SAMIS allows analyst with limited time and computing resources to perform greater number of sensitivity studies. Although developed for photovoltaic industry, readily adaptable to standard assembly-line type of manufacturing industry. IPEG program estimates annual production price per unit. IPEG/PC program written in TURBO PASCAL.

A meta-heuristic approach supported by NSGA-II for the design and plan of supply chain networks considering new product development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alizadeh Afrouzy, Zahra; Paydar, Mohammad Mahdi; Nasseri, Seyed Hadi; Mahdavi, Iraj

2018-03-01

There are many reasons for the growing interest in developing new product projects for any firm. The most embossed reason is surviving in a highly competitive industry which the customer tastes are changing rapidly. A well-managed supply chain network can provide the most profit for firms due to considering new product development. Along with profit, customer satisfaction and production of new products are goals which lead to a more efficient supply chain. As new products appear in the market, the old products could become obsolete, and then phased out. The most important parameter in a supply chain which considers new and developed products is the time that developed and new products are introduced and old products are phased out. With consideration of the factors noted above, this study proposes to design a tri-objective multi-echelon multi-product multi-period supply chain model, which incorporates product development and new product production and their effects on supply chain configuration. The supply chain under consideration is assumed to consist of suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and customer groups. In terms of overcoming NP-hardness of the proposed model and in order to solve the complicated problem, a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm is employed. As there is no benchmark available in the literature, the non-dominated ranking genetic algorithm is developed to validate the results obtained and some test problems are provided to show the applicability of the proposed methodology and evaluate the performance of the algorithms.

Need for certification of household water treatment products: examples from Haiti.

PubMed

Murray, Anna; Pierre-Louis, Jocelyne; Joseph, Flaurine; Sylvain, Ginelove; Patrick, Molly; Lantagne, Daniele

2015-04-01

To evaluate four household water treatment (HWT) products currently seeking approval for distribution in Haiti, through the application of a recently-developed national HWT product certification process. Four chemical treatment products were evaluated against the certification process validation stage by verifying international product certifications confirming treatment efficacy and reviewing laboratory efficacy data against WHO HWT microbiological performance targets; and against the approval stage by confirming product composition, evaluating treated water chemical content against national and international drinking water quality guidelines and reviewing packaging for dosing ability and usage directions in Creole. None of the four evaluated products fulfilled validation or approval stage requirements. None was certified by an international agency as efficacious for drinking water treatment, and none had data demonstrating its ability to meet WHO HWT performance targets. All product sample compositions differed from labelled composition by >20%, and no packaging included complete usage directions in Creole. Product manufacturers provided information that was inapplicable, did not demonstrate product efficacy, and was insufficient to ensure safe product use. Capacity building is needed with country regulatory agencies to objectively evaluate HWT products. Products should be internationally assessed against WHO performance targets and also locally approved, considering language, culture and usability, to ensure effective HWT. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Need for certification of household water treatment products: examples from Haiti

PubMed Central

Murray, Anna; Pierre-Louis, Jocelyne; Joseph, Flaurine; Sylvain, Ginelove; Patrick, Molly; Lantagne, Daniele

2015-01-01

OBJECTIVE To evaluate four household water treatment (HWT) products currently seeking approval for distribution in Haiti, through the application of a recently-developed national HWT product certification process. METHODS Four chemical treatment products were evaluated against the certification process validation stage by verifying international product certifications confirming treatment efficacy and reviewing laboratory efficacy data against WHO HWT microbiological performance targets; and against the approval stage by confirming product composition, evaluating treated water chemical content against national and international drinking water quality guidelines and reviewing packaging for dosing ability and usage directions in Creole. RESULTS None of the four evaluated products fulfilled validation or approval stage requirements. None was certified by an international agency as efficacious for drinking water treatment, and none had data demonstrating its ability to meet WHO HWT performance targets. All product sample compositions differed from labelled composition by >20%, and no packaging included complete usage directions in Creole. CONCLUSIONS Product manufacturers provided information that was inapplicable, did not demonstrate product efficacy, and was insufficient to ensure safe product use. Capacity building is needed with country regulatory agencies to objectively evaluate HWT products. Products should be internationally assessed against WHO performance targets and also locally approved, considering language, culture and usability, to ensure effective HWT. PMID:25441711

Development of textile-based high-tech products: the new challenge.

PubMed

da Rocha, Ana Maria M F

2004-01-01

The new generation of smart textiles is represented by fibers, yarns, fabrics and other resulting products that have special properties, regarding mechanical, chemical, electrical and thermal performances. These high-tech products, being able to respond to external stimuli through the integration of electronic components, phase change materials, shape memory materials or nano materials, enabled the development of different active and functional products. These products when combining the functions of medium, carrier and interface for micro-systems applications represent the ideal connecting channel between humans and the environment. This is a field of innovation that broadened the scope of the traditional textile and apparel products to high-tech textiles, designed to meet specific needs, involving different technologies and produced according to required properties, like personal protection, safety, leisure or health wear. The development of smart wear is a new challenge for the textile and clothing industry: it has to develop products based not only on design, fashion and comfort concepts but also in terms of functions. Moreover these products must be easy to care and durable.

Messiah College Biodiesel Fuel Generation Project Final Technical Report

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

Zummo, Michael M; Munson, J; Derr, A

Many obvious and significant concerns arise when considering the concept of small-scale biodiesel production. Does the fuel produced meet the stringent requirements set by the commercial biodiesel industry? Is the process safe? How are small-scale producers collecting and transporting waste vegetable oil? How is waste from the biodiesel production process handled by small-scale producers? These concerns and many others were the focus of the research preformed in the Messiah College Biodiesel Fuel Generation project over the last three years. This project was a unique research program in which undergraduate engineering students at Messiah College set out to research the feasibilitymore » of small-biodiesel production for application on a campus of approximately 3000 students. This Department of Energy (DOE) funded research program developed out of almost a decade of small-scale biodiesel research and development work performed by students at Messiah College. Over the course of the last three years the research team focused on four key areas related to small-scale biodiesel production: Quality Testing and Assurance, Process and Processor Research, Process and Processor Development, and Community Education. The objectives for the Messiah College Biodiesel Fuel Generation Project included the following: 1. Preparing a laboratory facility for the development and optimization of processors and processes, ASTM quality assurance, and performance testing of biodiesel fuels. 2. Developing scalable processor and process designs suitable for ASTM certifiable small-scale biodiesel production, with the goals of cost reduction and increased quality. 3. Conduct research into biodiesel process improvement and cost optimization using various biodiesel feedstocks and production ingredients.« less

Clinical development of gene- and cell-based therapies: overview of the European landscape

PubMed Central

de Wilde, Sofieke; Guchelaar, Henk-Jan; Zandvliet, Maarten Laurens; Meij, Pauline

2016-01-01

In the last decade, many clinical trials with gene- and cell-based therapies were performed and increasing interest in the development was established by (national) authorities, academic developers, and commercial companies. However, until now only eight products have received marketing authorization (MA) approval. In this study, a comprehensive overview of the clinical development of gene- and cell-based therapies in Europe is presented, with a strong focus on product-technical aspects. Public data regarding clinical trials with gene- and cell-based therapies, obtained from the European Union (EU) clinical trial database (EudraCT) between 2004 and 2014 were analyzed, including product-technical variables as potential determinants affecting development. 198 unique gene and cell therapy products were identified, which were studied in 278 clinical trials, mostly in phase 1/2 trials and with cell therapies as major group. Furthermore, most products were manufactured from autologous starting material mostly manufactured from stem cells. The majority of the trials were sponsored by academia, whereas phase 3 trials mostly by large companies. Academia dominated early-stage development by mainly using bone marrow derived products and stem cells. Conversely, commercial sponsors were more actively pursuing in vivo gene therapy medicinal product development, and cell therapies derived from differentiated tissue in later-stage development. PMID:27990447

Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) manufacturing of advanced therapy medicinal products: a novel tailored model for optimizing performance and estimating costs.

PubMed

Abou-El-Enein, Mohamed; Römhild, Andy; Kaiser, Daniel; Beier, Carola; Bauer, Gerhard; Volk, Hans-Dieter; Reinke, Petra

2013-03-01

Advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMP) have gained considerable attention in academia due to their therapeutic potential. Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) principles ensure the quality and sterility of manufacturing these products. We developed a model for estimating the manufacturing costs of cell therapy products and optimizing the performance of academic GMP-facilities. The "Clean-Room Technology Assessment Technique" (CTAT) was tested prospectively in the GMP facility of BCRT, Berlin, Germany, then retrospectively in the GMP facility of the University of California-Davis, California, USA. CTAT is a two-level model: level one identifies operational (core) processes and measures their fixed costs; level two identifies production (supporting) processes and measures their variable costs. The model comprises several tools to measure and optimize performance of these processes. Manufacturing costs were itemized using adjusted micro-costing system. CTAT identified GMP activities with strong correlation to the manufacturing process of cell-based products. Building best practice standards allowed for performance improvement and elimination of human errors. The model also demonstrated the unidirectional dependencies that may exist among the core GMP activities. When compared to traditional business models, the CTAT assessment resulted in a more accurate allocation of annual expenses. The estimated expenses were used to set a fee structure for both GMP facilities. A mathematical equation was also developed to provide the final product cost. CTAT can be a useful tool in estimating accurate costs for the ATMPs manufactured in an optimized GMP process. These estimates are useful when analyzing the cost-effectiveness of these novel interventions. Copyright © 2013 International Society for Cellular Therapy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Report Briefs: Publications of the Energy Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1999

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

Moser, C.I.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is responsible for collecting data to estimate price indices such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI). BLS accomplishes this task by sending field staff to places of business to price actual products. The field staff are given product checklists to help them determine whether the products found are comparable to products priced the previous month. Prices for noncomparable products are not included in the current month's price index calculations. A serious problem facing BLS is developing product checklists for dynamic product areas, new industries, and the service sector. It is difficult to keep checklistsmore » up to date and quite often simply to develop checklists for service industry products. Some people estimate that more than 50% of U.S. economic activity is not accounted for in the CPI. The objective it to provide the results of tests on a method for helping BLS staff build new product checklists quickly and efficiently. The domain chosen for studying the method was the telecommunications industry. The method developed by ORNL is based on behavioral science and knowledge-engineering principles. The method has ten steps, which include developing a sample of domain experts, asking experts to list products in the domain, culling the list of products to a manageable number, asking experts to group the remaining products, identifying product clusters using multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis, asking experts to compare pairs of products within clusters, and, finally, developing checklists with the comparison data. The method performed as expected. Several prototype checklists for products in the telecommunications domain were developed, including checklists for paging services, digital cell phones, web browsers, routers, and LAN modems. It was particularly difficult, however, to find experts to participate in the project. Attending a professional meeting and contacting experts from the conference's mailing list proved to be the best approach for this domain. The method has performed well in two domains: the telecommunications industry, as demonstrated in this project, and the PC software industry, as demonstrated in a previous project. It is recommended that the method be further tested in additional service industries, such as the nursing home industry. In addition, further attention needs to be devoted to developing procedures for the method to improve its cost and time efficiency. For example, if automated methods were used to collect information from the experts and if the experts could be assembled at one time, it could be possible to create prototype checklists in one day.« less

Xylose fermentation to ethanol. A review

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

McMillan, J D

1993-01-01

The past several years have seen tremendous progress in the understanding of xylose metabolism and in the identification, characterization, and development of strains with improved xylose fermentation characteristics. A survey of the numerous microorganisms capable of directly fermenting xylose to ethanol indicates that wild-type yeast and recombinant bacteria offer the best overall performance in terms of high yield, final ethanol concentration, and volumetric productivity. The best performing bacteria, yeast, and fungi can achieve yields greater than 0.4 g/g and final ethanol concentrations approaching 5%. Productivities remain low for most yeast and particularly for fungi, but volumetric productivities exceeding 1.0 g/L-hmore » have been reported for xylose-fermenting bacteria. In terms of wild-type microorganisms, strains of the yeast Pichia stipitis show the most promise in the short term for direct high-yield fermentation of xylose without byproduct formation. Of the recombinant xylose-fermenting microorganisms developed, recombinant E. coli ATTC 11303 (pLOI297) exhibits the most favorable performance characteristics reported to date.« less

Xylose fermentation to ethanol

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

McMillan, J.D.

1993-01-01

The past several years have seen tremendous progress in the understanding of xylose metabolism and in the identification, characterization, and development of strains with improved xylose fermentation characteristics. A survey of the numerous microorganisms capable of directly fermenting xylose to ethanol indicates that wild-type yeast and recombinant bacteria offer the best overall performance in terms of high yield, final ethanol concentration, and volumetric productivity. The best performing bacteria, yeast, and fungi can achieve yields greater than 0.4 g/g and final ethanol concentrations approaching 5%. Productivities remain low for most yeast and particularly for fungi, but volumetric productivities exceeding 1.0 g/L-hmore » have been reported for xylose-fermenting bacteria. In terms of wild-type microorganisms, strains of the yeast Pichia stipitis show the most promise in the short term for direct high-yield fermentation of xylose without byproduct formation. Of the recombinant xylose-fermenting microorganisms developed, recombinant E. coli ATTC 11303 (pLOI297) exhibits the most favorable performance characteristics reported to date.« less

The Research and Development of a Soluble Reactants and Products Secondary Battery System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liu, C. C.

1975-01-01

A redox battery system which employs an aqueous dectrolyte is developed. Results are presented of the following experimental studies (1) measurement of the essential physical and chemical properties of the reactants and products; (2) evaluation of commerically available anion membranes as the cell separator, (3) determination of the composition and degradation mechanism of the anion membrane, and/or developing an anion membrane separator; and (4) evaluation of the performance of prototype secondary battery systems.

Business Case Analysis of the Towed Gilder Air Launched System (TGALS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Webb, Darryl W.; Nguyen, McLinton B.; Seibold, Robert W.; Wong, Frank C.; Budd, Gerald D.

2017-01-01

The Aerospace Corporation developed an integrated Business Case Analysis (BCA) model on behalf of the NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC). This model evaluated the potential profitability of the Towed Glider Air Launched System (TGALS) concept, under development at AFRC, identifying potential technical, programmatic, and business decisions that could improve its business viability. The model addressed system performance metrics; development, production and operation cost estimates; market size and product service positioning; pricing alternatives; and market share.

Measuring Perceptions of Engagement in Teamwork in Youth Development Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cater, Melissa; Jones, Kimberly Y.

2014-01-01

The literature regarding teamwork has supported the idea that the key to improving team performance is to understand team processes. Early work within the realm of teamwork focused on quantifiable measures of team performance, like number of products developed. The measure of a successful team hinged on whether or not the team accomplished the end…

Silicon in broiler drinking water promotes bone development in broiler chickens.

PubMed

Sgavioli, S; de Faria Domingues, C H; Castiblanco, D M C; Praes, M F F M; Andrade-Garcia, Giuliana M; Santos, E T; Baraldi-Artoni, S M; Garcia, R G; Junqueira, O M

2016-10-01

Skeletal abnormalities, bone deformities and fractures cause significant losses in broiler production during both rearing and processing. Silicon is an essential mineral for bone and connective tissue synthesis and for calcium absorption during the early stages of bone formation. Performance was not affected by the addition of silicon. However, broilers receiving silicon showed a significant increase of phosphorus, zinc, copper, manganese and ash in the tibia. In conclusion, broiler performance was not impaired by adding the tested silicon product to the drinking water. In addition, bone development improved, as demonstrated by higher mineral and ash content. Further studies are required to determine the optimal concentration of silicon, including heat stress simulations, to better understand the effects of silicon on bone development.

Cradle-to-Gate Life-Cycle Inventory of Cellulosic Fiberboard Produced in North America

Treesearch

Richard D. Bergman

2015-01-01

Documenting the environmental performance of building products is becoming widespread because of many green marketing claims made without scientific merit (i.e., green-washing). Developing environmental product declarations (EPDs) for building products is one way to accomplish this objective for scientific documentation and to counter green-washing (ISO 2006a; Bergman...

43 CFR 3931.70 - Production maps and production reports.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... substantially incorrect in whole or in part, the cost of performing the survey and preparing the map will be charged to the operator or lessee. (f) For in situ development operations, the lessee or operator must... by the BLM. Show all excavations in each separate bed or deposit on the maps so that the production...

43 CFR 3931.70 - Production maps and production reports.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... substantially incorrect in whole or in part, the cost of performing the survey and preparing the map will be charged to the operator or lessee. (f) For in situ development operations, the lessee or operator must... by the BLM. Show all excavations in each separate bed or deposit on the maps so that the production...

43 CFR 3931.70 - Production maps and production reports.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... substantially incorrect in whole or in part, the cost of performing the survey and preparing the map will be charged to the operator or lessee. (f) For in situ development operations, the lessee or operator must... by the BLM. Show all excavations in each separate bed or deposit on the maps so that the production...

43 CFR 3931.70 - Production maps and production reports.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... substantially incorrect in whole or in part, the cost of performing the survey and preparing the map will be charged to the operator or lessee. (f) For in situ development operations, the lessee or operator must... by the BLM. Show all excavations in each separate bed or deposit on the maps so that the production...

Balanced scorecard as a framework for driving performance in managed care organizations.

PubMed

Sahney, V K

1998-01-01

Managed care organizations in a highly competitive environment constantly face the pressure of improving their financial performance. At the same time, customers of the organization expect the organization to deliver high-quality outcomes and improve customer service. Payers expect the organization to develop innovative new products to meet their needs. This article presents an approach called "Balanced Scorecard" for measurement, development of strategy, and performance improvement in a managed care organization.

Development of a perfusion reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography method for the characterisation of maize products using multivariate analysis.

PubMed

Rodriguez-Nogales, J M; Garcia, M C; Marina, M L

2006-02-03

A perfusion reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method has been designed to allow rapid (3.4 min) separations of maize proteins with high resolution. Several factors, such as extraction conditions, temperature, detection wavelength and type and concentration of ion-pairing agent were optimised. A fine optimisation of the gradient elution was also performed by applying experimental design. Commercial maize products for human consumption (flours, precocked flours, fried snacks and extruded snacks) were characterised for the first time by perfusion RP-HPLC and their chromatographic profiles allowed a differentiation among products relating the different technological process used for their preparation. Furthermore, applying discriminant analysis makes it possible to group the samples according with the technological process suffered by maize products, obtaining a good prediction in 92% of the samples.

Improving animal health and livestock productivity to reduce poverty.

PubMed

Pradère, J-P

2014-12-01

This study is based on scientific publications, statistics and field observations. It shows the importance of livestock in the economy and in the risk management strategies implemented by poor farming households. A comparison of livestock performance trends with the evolution of rural poverty in developing countries indicates that growth in livestock production alone is not enough to reduce rural poverty. To help reduce poverty, sustainable production should be based on productivity gains. Prerequisites for improving productivity include better public policies, enhanced research and the reduction of animal disease risk. The study draws attention to the economic, social and environmental consequences of inadequate support for animal health and production in the least developed countries, especially those of sub-Saharan Africa.

[Diagnosis of the productive capacity of the IMSS regarding health technologies].

PubMed

Figueroa-Lara, Alejandro; López-Fernández, Fátima Itzel; López-Domínguez, Adriana; Fajardo-Dolci, German

To quantify the production capacity and performance in research and technological developments of the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS). We identified and analyzed information of the legislation, human and financial resources, and infrastructure addressed for research and technological development of IMSS. We analyzed whether the information on the legal framework contained key features to boost research and technological development. Information on the human, financial, and infrastructure resources were obtained from official sources. The research productivity was identified by a bibliometric analysis in 2014; productivity in technological developments was identified by intellectual products. The legal framework of the IMSS has several areas for improvement to boost research and technological development, especially the guidelines for technology transfer. The IMSS has 438 researchers, 39 research units, and a budget of US$ 37.4 million for research and technological development. The rate of articles published per 10 researchers was 4.8; while rate patients was 1.8. The IMSS has a great potential to translate research into technological developments, it is only necessary to make some changes to the legal framework.

Fiscal year 2004/2005 performance plan

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-01-01

This Performance Plan for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Office of Research, Development, and Technology (RD&T) describes the research that will be conducted and the products and services that will be provided in fiscal years (FY) 2004/200...

48 CFR 742.1170-3 - Policy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 742.1170-3 Federal Acquisition Regulations System AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Production, Surveillance, and Reporting 742.1170-3 Policy. (a) The contractor is responsible for timely contract performance. Performance monitoring by USAID does not obviate...

Simulation of a multistage fractured horizontal well in a water-bearing tight fractured gas reservoir under non-Darcy flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Rui-Han; Zhang, Lie-Hui; Wang, Rui-He; Zhao, Yu-Long; Huang, Rui

2018-06-01

Reservoir development for unconventional resources such as tight gas reservoirs is in increasing demand due to the rapid decline of production in conventional reserves. Compared with conventional reservoirs, fluid flow in water-bearing tight gas reservoirs is subject to more nonlinear multiphase flow and gas slippage in nano/micro matrix pores because of the strong collisions between rock and gas molecules. Economic gas production from tight gas reservoirs depends on extensive application of water-based hydraulic fracturing of horizontal wells, associated with non-Darcy flow at a high flow rate, geomechanical stress sensitivity of un-propped natural fractures, complex flow geometry and multiscale heterogeneity. How to efficiently and accurately predict the production performance of a multistage fractured horizontal well (MFHW) is challenging. In this paper, a novel multicontinuum, multimechanism, two-phase simulator is established based on unstructured meshes and the control volume finite element method to analyze the production performance of MFHWs. The multiple interacting continua model and discrete fracture model are coupled to integrate the unstimulated fractured reservoir, induced fracture networks (stimulated reservoir volumes, SRVs) and irregular discrete hydraulic fractures. Several simulations and sensitivity analyses are performed with the developed simulator for determining the key factors affecting the production performance of MFHWs. Two widely applied fracturing models, classic hydraulic fracturing which generates long double-wing fractures and the volumetric fracturing aimed at creating large SRVs, are compared to identify which of them can make better use of tight gas reserves.

Implementing AORN recommended practices for product selection.

PubMed

Conrardy, Julie A

2012-06-01

This article focuses on the revised AORN "Recommended practices for product selection in perioperative practice settings." Hospitals and ambulatory surgery facilities should have protocols in place for product evaluation that includes a multidisciplinary team approach. The process for product evaluation and selection includes gathering information; establishing consistent requirements for product evaluation; performing a financial impact analysis; investigating a plan to standardize products; conducting an environmental impact analysis; determining whether to purchase single-use, reposable, or reusable products or reprocess single-use devices; developing an evaluation process based on objective criteria; and developing and implementing a comprehensive plan to introduce and use new products. Use of an evaluation tool that is based on objective criteria is one way to obtain valuable input during product evaluations. Because of varied roles and experiences, the perioperative RN is an integral member of the product selection committee. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Predicting the Productive Capacity of Air Force Aerospace Ground Equipment Personnel Using Aptitude and Experience Measures

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-03-01

Study of the Productive Capacity Project 40 4. 454X1 Job Duty Areas ....... ........................ ......... 41 5. Bases Visited in the Initial Study of...101 21. Correlttion Matrix of the Other Job Performance Measures ................. 102 22 454X1 Tasks...mentioned, the goal of the thesis is to develop an experimental mathematical model for predicting the job performance of enlisted personnel in AFS 454X1

Plasma Chemistry Processes in the Closed Cycle EDL.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-07-01

chemistry. The present study is mainly concerned with plasma by-products and, to some degree, with initial impurities and their influence on laser...performance. The plasma chemistry important in the formation of these by-products has been studied in greatest detail for He/N 2 /C0 2 mixtures loaded by...cases for two closed cycle EDL devices currently under development. The study includes the effects on performance of variations in the electric field

Real-Time Simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

Coryphaeus Software, founded in 1989 by former NASA electronic engineer Steve Lakowske, creates real-time 3D software. Designer's Workbench, the company flagship product, is a modeling and simulation tool for the development of both static and dynamic 3D databases. Other products soon followed. Activation, specifically designed for game developers, allows developers to play and test the 3D games before they commit to a target platform. Game publishers can shorten development time and prove the "playability" of the title, maximizing their chances of introducing a smash hit. Another product, EasyT, lets users create massive, realistic representation of Earth terrains that can be viewed and traversed in real time. Finally, EasyScene software control the actions among interactive objects within a virtual world. Coryphaeus products are used on Silican Graphics workstation and supercomputers to simulate real-world performance in synthetic environments. Customers include aerospace, aviation, architectural and engineering firms, game developers, and the entertainment industry.

Draft Plan to Develop Non-Intrusive Load Monitoring Test Protocols

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

Mayhorn, Ebony T.; Sullivan, Greg P.; Petersen, Joseph M.

2015-09-29

This document presents a Draft Plan proposed to develop a common test protocol that can be used to evaluate the performance requirements of Non-Intrusive Load Monitoring. Development on the test protocol will be focused on providing a consistent method that can be used to quantify and compare the performance characteristics of NILM products. Elements of the protocols include specifications for appliances to be used, metrics, instrumentation, and a procedure to simulate appliance behavior during tests. In addition, three priority use cases for NILM will be identified and their performance requirements will specified.

Development of Process Analytical Technology (PAT) methods for controlled release pellet coating.

PubMed

Avalle, P; Pollitt, M J; Bradley, K; Cooper, B; Pearce, G; Djemai, A; Fitzpatrick, S

2014-07-01

This work focused on the control of the manufacturing process for a controlled release (CR) pellet product, within a Quality by Design (QbD) framework. The manufacturing process was Wurster coating: firstly layering active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) onto sugar pellet cores and secondly a controlled release (CR) coating. For each of these two steps, development of a Process Analytical Technology (PAT) method is discussed and also a novel application of automated microscopy as the reference method. Ultimately, PAT methods should link to product performance and the two key Critical Quality Attributes (CQAs) for this CR product are assay and release rate, linked to the API and CR coating steps respectively. In this work, the link between near infra-red (NIR) spectra and those attributes was explored by chemometrics over the course of the coating process in a pilot scale industrial environment. Correlations were built between the NIR spectra and coating weight (for API amount), CR coating thickness and dissolution performance. These correlations allow the coating process to be monitored at-line and so better control of the product performance in line with QbD requirements. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Eco-efficiency in extended supply chains: a case study of furniture production.

PubMed

Michelsen, Ottar; Fet, Annik Magerholm; Dahlsrud, Alexander

2006-05-01

This paper presents a methodology about how eco-efficiency in extended supply chains (ESCs) can be understood and measured. The extended supply chain includes all processes in the life cycle of a product and the eco-efficiency is measured as the relative environmental and value performance in one ESC compared to other ESCs. The paper is based on a case study of furniture production in Norway. Nine different environmental performance indicators are identified. These are based on suggestions from the World Business Council for Sustainable Development and additional indicators that are shown to have significant impacts in the life cycle of the products. Value performance is measured as inverse life cycle costs. The eco-efficiency for six different chair models is calculated and the relative values are shown graphically in XY-diagrams. This provides information about the relative performance of the products, which is valuable in green procurement processes. The same method is also used for analysing changes in eco-efficiency when possible alterations in the ESC are introduced. Here, it is shown that a small and realistic change of end-of-life treatment significantly changes the eco-efficiency of a product.

Rust transformation/rust compatible primers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Emeric, Dario A.; Miller, Christopher E.

1993-01-01

Proper surface preparation has been the key to obtain good performance by a surface coating. The major obstacle in preparing a corroded or rusted surface is the complete removal of the contaminants and the corrosion products. Sandblasting has been traditionally used to remove the corrosion products before painting. However, sandblasting can be expensive, may be prohibited by local health regulations and is not applicable in every situation. To get around these obstacles, Industry developed rust converters/rust transformers and rust compatible primers (high solids epoxies). The potential use of these products for military equipment led personnel of the Belvoir Research, Development and Engineering Center (BRDEC) to evaluate the commercially available rust transformers and rust compatible primers. Prior laboratory experience with commercially available rust converters, as well as field studies in Hawaii and Puerto Rico, revealed poor performance, several inherent limitations, and lack of reliability. It was obvious from our studies that the performance of rust converting products was more dependent on the amount and type of rust present, as well as the degree of permeability of the coating, than on the product's ability to form an organometallic complex with the rust. Based on these results, it was decided that the Military should develop their own rust converter formulation and specification. The compound described in the specification is for use on a rusted surface before the application of an organic coating (bituminous compounds, primer or topcoat). These coatings should end the need for sandblasting or the removing of the adherent corrosion products. They also will prepare the surface for the application of the organic coating. Several commercially available rust compatible primers (RCP) were also tested using corroded surfaces. All of the evaluated RCP failed our laboratory tests for primers.

Low cost solar array project: Experimental process system development unit for producing semiconductor-grade silicon using silane-to-silicon process

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1980-01-01

The design, fabrication, and installation of an experimental process system development unit (EPSDU) were analyzed. Supporting research and development were performed to provide an information data base usable for the EPSDU and for technological design and economical analysis for potential scale-up of the process. Iterative economic analyses were conducted for the estimated product cost for the production of semiconductor grade silicon in a facility capable of producing 1000-MT/Yr.

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

Liu, Jia

Biorefineries convert biomass into many useful intermediates. For bio-based products to be used for fuel, energy, chemical, and many other applications, water needs to be removed from these aqueous products. Membrane separation technologies can significantly reduce separation energy consumption compared with conventional separation processes such as distillation. Nanoporous inorganic membranes have superior pervaporation performance with excellent organic fouling resistance. However, their commercial applications are limited due to high membrane costs and poor production reproducibility. A novel cost-effective inorganic membrane fabrication technology has been developed with low cost materials and using an advanced membrane fabrication technology. Low cost precursor material formulationmore » was successfully developed with desired material properties for membrane fabrication. An advanced membrane fabrication process was developed using the novel membrane materials to enable the fabrication of separation membranes of various geometries. The structural robustness and separation performance of the low cost inorganic membranes were evaluated. The novel inorganic membranes demonstrated high structural integrity and were effective in pervaporation removal of water.« less

CdSe TFT AMLCDE manufacturing process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pritchard, Annette M.

1995-06-01

Active Matrix Liquid Crystal Displays, AMLCDs, based on Cadmium Selenide Thin Film Transistors, have been developed by Litton for a number of defence/avionics applications. Fabrication processed for the thin film transistor (TFT) arrays, color filters and liquid crystal cell assembly have been developed which enable the end product to meet the difficult environmental and performance specifications of military applications, while maintaining focus on cost and yield issues. The fabrication of the AMLCD products is now transitioning into a new production facility which has been designed specifically to meet the requirements of the defence/avionics marketplace.

Full parabolic trough qualification from prototype to demonstration loop

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Janotte, Nicole; Lüpfert, Eckhard; Pottler, Klaus; Schmitz, Mark

2017-06-01

On the example of the HelioTrough® collector development the full accompanying and supporting qualification program for large-scale parabolic trough collectors for solar thermal power plants is described from prototype to demonstration loop scale. In the evaluation process the actual state and the optimization potential are assessed. This includes the optical and geometrical performance determined by concentrator shape, deformation, assembly quality and local intercept factor values. Furthermore, its mechanical performance in terms of tracking accuracy and torsional stiffness and its thermal system performance on the basis of the overall thermal output and heat loss are evaluated. Demonstration loop tests deliver results of collector modules statistical slope deviation of 1.9 to 2.6 mrad, intercept factor above 98%, peak optical performance of 81.6% and heat loss coefficients from field tests. The benefit of such a closely monitored development lies in prompt feedback on strengths, weaknesses and potential improvements on the new product at any development stage from first module tests until demonstration loop evaluation. The product developer takes advantage of the achieved technical maturity, already before the implementation in a commercial power plant. The well-understood performance characteristics allow the reduction of safety margins making the new HelioTrough collector competitive from the start.

Comparative life cycle assessment of lignocellulosic ethanol production: biochemical versus thermochemical conversion.

PubMed

Mu, Dongyan; Seager, Thomas; Rao, P Suresh; Zhao, Fu

2010-10-01

Lignocellulosic biomass can be converted into ethanol through either biochemical or thermochemical conversion processes. Biochemical conversion involves hydrolysis and fermentation while thermochemical conversion involves gasification and catalytic synthesis. Even though these routes produce comparable amounts of ethanol and have similar energy efficiency at the plant level, little is known about their relative environmental performance from a life cycle perspective. Especially, the indirect impacts, i.e. emissions and resource consumption associated with the production of various process inputs, are largely neglected in previous studies. This article compiles material and energy flow data from process simulation models to develop life cycle inventory and compares the fossil fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and water consumption of both biomass-to-ethanol production processes. The results are presented in terms of contributions from feedstock, direct, indirect, and co-product credits for four representative biomass feedstocks i.e., wood chips, corn stover, waste paper, and wheat straw. To explore the potentials of the two conversion pathways, different technological scenarios are modeled, including current, 2012 and 2020 technology targets, as well as different production/co-production configurations. The modeling results suggest that biochemical conversion has slightly better performance on greenhouse gas emission and fossil fuel consumption, but that thermochemical conversion has significantly less direct, indirect, and life cycle water consumption. Also, if the thermochemical plant operates as a biorefinery with mixed alcohol co-products separated for chemicals, it has the potential to achieve better performance than biochemical pathway across all environmental impact categories considered due to higher co-product credits associated with chemicals being displaced. The results from this work serve as a starting point for developing full life cycle assessment model that facilitates effective decision-making regarding lignocellulosic ethanol production.

Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of Lignocellulosic Ethanol Production: Biochemical Versus Thermochemical Conversion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mu, Dongyan; Seager, Thomas; Rao, P. Suresh; Zhao, Fu

2010-10-01

Lignocellulosic biomass can be converted into ethanol through either biochemical or thermochemical conversion processes. Biochemical conversion involves hydrolysis and fermentation while thermochemical conversion involves gasification and catalytic synthesis. Even though these routes produce comparable amounts of ethanol and have similar energy efficiency at the plant level, little is known about their relative environmental performance from a life cycle perspective. Especially, the indirect impacts, i.e. emissions and resource consumption associated with the production of various process inputs, are largely neglected in previous studies. This article compiles material and energy flow data from process simulation models to develop life cycle inventory and compares the fossil fuel consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and water consumption of both biomass-to-ethanol production processes. The results are presented in terms of contributions from feedstock, direct, indirect, and co-product credits for four representative biomass feedstocks i.e., wood chips, corn stover, waste paper, and wheat straw. To explore the potentials of the two conversion pathways, different technological scenarios are modeled, including current, 2012 and 2020 technology targets, as well as different production/co-production configurations. The modeling results suggest that biochemical conversion has slightly better performance on greenhouse gas emission and fossil fuel consumption, but that thermochemical conversion has significantly less direct, indirect, and life cycle water consumption. Also, if the thermochemical plant operates as a biorefinery with mixed alcohol co-products separated for chemicals, it has the potential to achieve better performance than biochemical pathway across all environmental impact categories considered due to higher co-product credits associated with chemicals being displaced. The results from this work serve as a starting point for developing full life cycle assessment model that facilitates effective decision-making regarding lignocellulosic ethanol production.

A mathematical formulation for interface-based modular product design with geometric and weight constraints

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jung-Woon Yoo, John

2016-06-01

Since customer preferences change rapidly, there is a need for design processes with shorter product development cycles. Modularization plays a key role in achieving mass customization, which is crucial in today's competitive global market environments. Standardized interfaces among modularized parts have facilitated computational product design. To incorporate product size and weight constraints during computational design procedures, a mixed integer programming formulation is presented in this article. Product size and weight are two of the most important design parameters, as evidenced by recent smart-phone products. This article focuses on the integration of geometric, weight and interface constraints into the proposed mathematical formulation. The formulation generates the optimal selection of components for a target product, which satisfies geometric, weight and interface constraints. The formulation is verified through a case study and experiments are performed to demonstrate the performance of the formulation.

The development of national quality performance standards for disposable absorbent products for adult incontinence.

PubMed

Muller, Nancy; McInnis, Elaine

2013-09-01

Disposable absorbent products are widely used in inpatient care settings and in the community to manage adult urinary and fecal incontinence, but few product standards exist to help guide their production or optimal use. Increasing costs and reduced revenues have caused a number of states to evaluate absorbent product use among persons who receive care at home with the assistance of the Medicaid Waiver Program, further increasing concerns about the lack of product performance standards. To address these issues, the National Association For Continence (NAFC) formed a council of experts and key stakeholders with the objective of establishing national, independent quality performance standards for disposable absorbent products provided by states to Waiver Program recipients. The Council consisted of representatives from five purposefully selected states, technical directors from six nonwoven product manufacturers, an officer of the nonwoven manufactures trade association, a delegate from an academic nursing program and professional societies, a family caregiver, and a patient representative. Following a consensus method and guidelines for use, nine specific recommendations were developed, posted for public comment, and further refined. Final recommendations for product performance assessment include: rewet rate (a measure of a product's ability to withstand multiple incontinent episodes between changes), rate of acquisition (a measure of the speed at which urine is drawn away from the skin by a product, product retention capacity (a measure of a product's capacity to hold fluid without rewetting the skin), sizing options, absorbency levels, product safety, closure technology, breathable zones (a measure of the air permeability across a textile-like fabric at a controlled differential pressure), and elasticity. The Council also set values for and recommended four quantifiable parameters, and the testing methodology associated with each, to help consumers and states evaluate absorbent products (medium adult size): Maximum Rewet Rate: <1.0-2.0 g for briefs and <0.5-1.0 g for underwear; Maximum Rate of Acquisition: <50-60 seconds for briefs and <35-45 seconds for underwear; Minimum Retention Capacity: >250 g for standard briefs or underwear and >400 g for premium briefs or underwear; and Breathability of Zones: Minimum of >100 cubic feet per minute. As these recommendations are implemented, research is needed to evaluate the impact on both cost and quality of care for further refinement and modifications, particularly as technology and knowledge is advanced.

Ensuring food security with lower environmental costs under intensive agricultural land use patterns: A case study from China.

PubMed

Qi, Xiaoxing; Wang, Raymond Yu; Li, Jianchun; Zhang, Tao; Liu, Liming; He, Yanling

2018-05-01

Rapid population growth and environmental deterioration make ensuring food security with lower environmental costs fundamental to realizing sustainable development in China and other developing countries. The conceptual framework used in this paper integrates the major consequences of intensive agricultural land use and the diverse objectives of policymakers and farmers. It also offers an operational approach, based on farmers' diverse performance in grain production and farmland productivity, to assess food production and environmental impacts under foci-differentiated scenarios. Using data from farmer household surveys, soil surveys, land use images, and statistical yearbooks, this approach was tested using a regional case in China. The results indicate that, among all farmer types, the medium-scale farmers had a better comprehensive performance for grain production for yield, fertilizer and pesticide inputs, labor productivity, and sustainability. Therefore, grain yields can be increased and environmental costs reduced simultaneously through the use of policy instruments that encourage the transformation of trapped farmers into medium-scale farmers and balancing the proportion of single and double cropped rice. In addition, and in order to reduce grain losses caused by natural disasters and to prevent environmental degradation, robust policy measures should be developed to avoid the currently predominant cropping patterns that erode biodiversity. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

DEVELOPMENT OF A NEW GLOVE FOR GLOVE BOXES WITH HIGH-LEVEL PERFORMANCES

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

Blancher, J.; Poirier, J.M.

2003-02-27

This paper describes the results of a joint technological program of COGEMA and MAPA to develop a new generation of glove for glove boxes. The mechanical strength of this glove is twice as high as the best characteristics of gloves available on the market. This new generation of product has both a higher level of performance and better ergonomics.

Performance of compact fast pyrolysis reactor with Auger-type modules for the continuous liquid biofuel production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nishimura, Shun; Ebitani, Kohki

2018-01-01

Development of a compact fast pyrolysis reactor constructed using Auger-type technology to afford liquid biofuel with high yield has been an interesting concept in support of local production for local consumption. To establish a widely useable module package, details of the performance of the developing compact module reactor were investigated. This study surveyed the properties of as-produced pyrolysis oil as a function of operation time, and clarified the recent performance of the developing compact fast pyrolysis reactor. Results show that after condensation in the scrubber collector, e.g. approx. 10 h for a 25 kg/h feedstock rate, static performance of pyrolysis oil with approximately 20 MJ/kg (4.8 kcal/g) calorific values were constantly obtained after an additional 14 h. The feeding speed of cedar chips strongly influenced the time for oil condensation process: i.e. 1.6 times higher feeding speed decreased the condensation period by half (approx. 5 h in the case of 40 kg/h). Increasing the reactor throughput capacity is an important goal for the next stage in the development of a compact fast pyrolysis reactor with Auger-type modules.

ADAPTmap: International coordinated data resource for improving goat production effiency

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Goats provide vital food and economic security, particularly in developing countries. We created a database that is a nexus for all performance, type, geographic information system (GIS), production environment, and genome information on goats. This resource provides a platform for meta-analysis tha...

Engineering cell factories for producing building block chemicals for bio-polymer synthesis.

PubMed

Tsuge, Yota; Kawaguchi, Hideo; Sasaki, Kengo; Kondo, Akihiko

2016-01-21

Synthetic polymers are widely used in daily life. Due to increasing environmental concerns related to global warming and the depletion of oil reserves, the development of microbial-based fermentation processes for the production of polymer building block chemicals from renewable resources is desirable to replace current petroleum-based methods. To this end, strains that efficiently produce the target chemicals at high yields and productivity are needed. Recent advances in metabolic engineering have enabled the biosynthesis of polymer compounds at high yield and productivities by governing the carbon flux towards the target chemicals. Using these methods, microbial strains have been engineered to produce monomer chemicals for replacing traditional petroleum-derived aliphatic polymers. These developments also raise the possibility of microbial production of aromatic chemicals for synthesizing high-performance polymers with desirable properties, such as ultraviolet absorbance, high thermal resistance, and mechanical strength. In the present review, we summarize recent progress in metabolic engineering approaches to optimize microbial strains for producing building blocks to synthesize aliphatic and high-performance aromatic polymers.

A preliminary study on performance of Saccharomyces cerevisiae n0 DY 7221 immobilized using grafted bioflocculant in bioethanol production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suci, Windhu Griyasti; Margono, Kaavessina, Mujtahid

2018-02-01

Bioethanol has been well acknowledged to be developed as a biofuel and can be derived from renewable resources. Currently, the utilization of bioethanol as a fuel is more expensive than that of gasoline due to the high production cost. Researchers from industrial and academia have been doing some efforts to reduce it, namely: energy efficiency, exploring many potential renewable resources, increasing fermentation productivity, etc. We propose a novel immobilized Saccharomyces cerevisiae trapped in grafted bioflocculant. The flocculant was developed from polyacrylamide chains grafted into modified starches. This research aims to preliminary performance study of S. cerevisiae immobilized using our new developed method. The bioflocculant solution with the various concentration of 1%, 2%, and 2.5% v/v was dropped into 90 ml of developed inoculum to get flocs which would be used as a starter in fermentation process. The fermentation process was carried out in a shaken flask at 30oC and 150 rpm for 72 hours. The best result was obtained in the sample of 2.5% bioflocculant fraction, i.e. bioethanol 9.25% and enhanced productivity 3.6 times of free cell. These results indicate that flocculation method is a way of immobilizing yeast that needs to be further investigated.

A Study of the Impacts of Selected Products Developed by the National Center for Higher Education Management Systems.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rodgers, Kenneth W.; Rhodes, Isabelle N.

The impact of NCHEMS (National Center for Higher Education Management Systems) products upon planning and management tasks is examined in this study performed at a sample of 126 institutions. The institutions have used one or more of the following NCHEMS products: Program Classification of Structure (PCS); Resource Requirements Prediction Model…

Multiple-scattering model for inclusive proton production in heavy ion collisions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cucinotta, Francis A.

1994-01-01

A formalism is developed for evaluating the momentum distribution for proton production in nuclear abrasion during heavy ion collisions using the Glauber multiple-scattering series. Several models for the one-body density matrix of nuclei are considered for performing numerical calculations. Calculations for the momentum distribution of protons in abrasion are compared with experimental data for inclusive proton production.

12 CFR 555.200 - How may I use or participate with others to use electronic means and facilities?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... sell, or participate with others to market and sell, electronic capacities and by-products to third-parties, if you acquired or developed these capacities and by-products in good faith as part of providing..., electronic means or facilities to perform any function, or provide any product or service, as part of an...

Review of Cuttability Indices and A New Rockmass Classification Approach for Selection of Surface Miners

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dey, Kaushik; Ghose, A. K.

2011-09-01

Rock excavation is carried out either by drilling and blasting or using rock-cutting machines like rippers, bucket wheel excavators, surface miners, road headers etc. Economics of mechanised rock excavation by rock-cutting machines largely depends on the achieved production rates. Thus, assessment of the performance (productivity) is important prior to deploying a rock-cutting machine. In doing so, several researchers have classified rockmass in different ways and have developed cuttability indices to correlate machine performance directly. However, most of these indices were developed to assess the performance of road headers/tunnel-boring machines apart from a few that were developed in the earlier days when the ripper was a popular excavating equipment. Presently, around 400 surface miners are in operation around the world amongst which, 105 are in India. Until now, no rockmass classification system is available to assess the performance of surface miners. Surface miners are being deployed largely on trial and error basis or based on the performance charts provided by the manufacturer. In this context, it is logical to establish a suitable cuttability index to predict the performance of surface miners. In this present paper, the existing cuttability indices are reviewed and a new cuttability indexes proposed. A new relationship is also developed to predict the output from surface miners using the proposed cuttability index.

An integrated production-inventory model for food products adopting a general raw material procurement policy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fauza, G.; Prasetyo, H.; Amanto, B. S.

2018-05-01

Studies on an integrated production-inventory model for deteriorating items have been done extensively. Most of the studies define deterioration as physical depletion of some inventories over time. This definition may not represent the deterioration characteristics of food products. The quality of food production decreases over time while the quantity remains the same. Further, in the existing models, the raw material is replenished several times (or at least once) within one production cycle. In food industries, however, a food company, for several reasons (e.g., the seasonal raw materials, discounted price, etc.) sometimes will get more benefit if it orders raw materials in a large quantity. Considering this fact, this research, therefore, is aimed at developing a more representative inventory model by (i) considering the quality losses in food and (ii) adopting a general raw material procurement policy. A mathematical model is established to represent the proposed policy in which the total profit of the system is the objective function. To evaluate the performance of the model, a numerical test was conducted. The numerical test indicates that the developed model has better performance, i.e., the total profit is 2.3% higher compared to the existing model.

Developing an in vitro understanding of patient experience with hydrofluoroalkane-metered dose inhalers.

PubMed

Doub, William H; Shah, Vibhakar; Limb, Susan; Guo, Changning; Liu, Xiaofei; Ngo, Diem

2014-11-01

As a result of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, manufacturers of metered dose inhalers began reformulating their products to use hydrofluoroalkanes (HFAs) as propellants in place of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Although the new products are considered safe and efficacious by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a large number of complaints have been registered via the FDA's Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS)-more than 7000 as of May 2013. To develop a better understanding of the measurable parameters that may, in part, determine in vitro performance and thus patient compliance, we compared several CFC- and HFA-based products with respect to their aerodynamic performance in response to changes in actuator cleaning interval and interactuation delay interval. Comparison metrics examined in this study were: total drug delivered ex-actuator, fine particle dose (<5 μm), mass median aerodynamic diameter, plume width, plume temperature, plume impaction force, and actuator orifice diameter. Overall, no single metric or test condition distinguishes HFA products from CFC products, but, for individual products tested, there were a combination of metrics that differentiated one from another. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association.

Aerospace Engineering Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

VanDalsem, William R.; Livingston, Mary E.; Melton, John E.; Torres, Francisco J.; Stremel, Paul M.

1999-01-01

Continuous improvement of aerospace product development processes is a driving requirement across much of the aerospace community. As up to 90% of the cost of an aerospace product is committed during the first 10% of the development cycle, there is a strong emphasis on capturing, creating, and communicating better information (both requirements and performance) early in the product development process. The community has responded by pursuing the development of computer-based systems designed to enhance the decision-making capabilities of product development individuals and teams. Recently, the historical foci on sharing the geometrical representation and on configuration management are being augmented: Physics-based analysis tools for filling the design space database; Distributed computational resources to reduce response time and cost; Web-based technologies to relieve machine-dependence; and Artificial intelligence technologies to accelerate processes and reduce process variability. Activities such as the Advanced Design Technologies Testbed (ADTT) project at NASA Ames Research Center study the strengths and weaknesses of the technologies supporting each of these trends, as well as the overall impact of the combination of these trends on a product development event. Lessons learned and recommendations for future activities will be reported.

Quantification of maltol in Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) products by high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector

PubMed Central

Jeong, Hyun Cheol; Hong, Hee-Do; Kim, Young-Chan; Rhee, Young Kyoung; Choi, Sang Yoon; Kim, Kyung-Tack; Kim, Sung Soo; Lee, Young-Chul; Cho, Chang-Won

2015-01-01

Background: Maltol, as a type of phenolic compounds, is produced by the browning reaction during the high-temperature treatment of ginseng. Thus, maltol can be used as a marker for the quality control of various ginseng products manufactured by high-temperature treatment including red ginseng. For the quantification of maltol in Korean ginseng products, an effective high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) method was developed. Materials and Methods: The HPLC-DAD method for maltol quantification coupled with a liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) method was developed and validated in terms of linearity, precision, and accuracy. An HPLC separation was performed on a C18 column. Results: The LLE methods and HPLC running conditions for maltol quantification were optimized. The calibration curve of the maltol exhibited good linearity (R2 = 1.00). The limit of detection value of maltol was 0.26 μg/mL, and the limit of quantification value was 0.79 μg/mL. The relative standard deviations (RSDs) of the data of the intra- and inter-day experiments were <1.27% and 0.61%, respectively. The results of the recovery test were 101.35–101.75% with an RSD value of 0.21–1.65%. The developed method was applied successfully to quantify the maltol in three ginseng products manufactured by different methods. Conclusion: The results of validation demonstrated that the proposed HPLC-DAD method was useful for the quantification of maltol in various ginseng products. PMID:26246746

Vacuum decay container closure integrity leak test method development and validation for a lyophilized product-package system.

PubMed

Patel, Jayshree; Mulhall, Brian; Wolf, Heinz; Klohr, Steven; Guazzo, Dana Morton

2011-01-01

A leak test performed according to ASTM F2338-09 Standard Test Method for Nondestructive Detection of Leaks in Packages by Vacuum Decay Method was developed and validated for container-closure integrity verification of a lyophilized product in a parenteral vial package system. This nondestructive leak test method is intended for use in manufacturing as an in-process package integrity check, and for testing product stored on stability in lieu of sterility tests. Method development and optimization challenge studies incorporated artificially defective packages representing a range of glass vial wall and sealing surface defects, as well as various elastomeric stopper defects. Method validation required 3 days of random-order replicate testing of a test sample population of negative-control, no-defect packages and positive-control, with-defect packages. Positive-control packages were prepared using vials each with a single hole laser-drilled through the glass vial wall. Hole creation and hole size certification was performed by Lenox Laser. Validation study results successfully demonstrated the vacuum decay leak test method's ability to accurately and reliably detect those packages with laser-drilled holes greater than or equal to approximately 5 μm in nominal diameter. All development and validation studies were performed at Whitehouse Analytical Laboratories in Whitehouse, NJ, under the direction of consultant Dana Guazzo of RxPax, LLC, using a VeriPac 455 Micro Leak Test System by Packaging Technologies & Inspection (Tuckahoe, NY). Bristol Myers Squibb (New Brunswick, NJ) fully subsidized all work. A leak test performed according to ASTM F2338-09 Standard Test Method for Nondestructive Detection of Leaks in Packages by Vacuum Decay Method was developed and validated to detect defects in stoppered vial packages containing lyophilized product for injection. This nondestructive leak test method is intended for use in manufacturing as an in-process package integrity check, and for testing product stored on stability in lieu of sterility tests. Test method validation study results proved the method capable of detecting holes laser-drilled through the glass vial wall greater than or equal to 5 μm in nominal diameter. Total test time is less than 1 min per package. All method development and validation studies were performed at Whitehouse Analytical Laboratories in Whitehouse, NJ, under the direction of consultant Dana Guazzo of RxPax, LLC, using a VeriPac 455 Micro Leak Test System by Packaging Technologies & Inspection (Tuckahoe, NY). Bristol Myers Squibb (New Brunswick, NJ) fully subsidized all work.

A Practical Framework Toward Prediction of Breaking Force and Disintegration of Tablet Formulations Using Machine Learning Tools.

PubMed

Akseli, Ilgaz; Xie, Jingjin; Schultz, Leon; Ladyzhynsky, Nadia; Bramante, Tommasina; He, Xiaorong; Deanne, Rich; Horspool, Keith R; Schwabe, Robert

2017-01-01

Enabling the paradigm of quality by design requires the ability to quantitatively correlate material properties and process variables to measureable product performance attributes. Conventional, quality-by-test methods for determining tablet breaking force and disintegration time usually involve destructive tests, which consume significant amount of time and labor and provide limited information. Recent advances in material characterization, statistical analysis, and machine learning have provided multiple tools that have the potential to develop nondestructive, fast, and accurate approaches in drug product development. In this work, a methodology to predict the breaking force and disintegration time of tablet formulations using nondestructive ultrasonics and machine learning tools was developed. The input variables to the model include intrinsic properties of formulation and extrinsic process variables influencing the tablet during manufacturing. The model has been applied to predict breaking force and disintegration time using small quantities of active pharmaceutical ingredient and prototype formulation designs. The novel approach presented is a step forward toward rational design of a robust drug product based on insight into the performance of common materials during formulation and process development. It may also help expedite drug product development timeline and reduce active pharmaceutical ingredient usage while improving efficiency of the overall process. Copyright © 2016 American Pharmacists Association®. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The perceived compatibility of safety and production expectations in hazardous occupations.

PubMed

McLain, David L; Jarrell, Kimberly A

2007-01-01

Safety hazards are unavoidable in many work environments. Employees must be both productive and safe, however, conflicting safety and production demands can negatively affect safety, production, or both. The employee's perception of the compatibility of management's safety and production expectations is a possible predictor of such consequences. This paper defines "safety-production compatibility" and describes how measures of safety-production compatibility, as well as safety pressure and production pressure, were developed. We used LISREL structural equation modeling to test the influences of safety-production compatibility, safety pressure, and production pressure on safe work behavior and interference with performing other work tasks. The 239 study participants were workers employed in diverse but hazardous occupations. Pressure to work safely was positively associated with safe work behavior. The perceived compatibility of safety and production demands positively influenced safe work behavior and reduced the interference of safety hazards performing other tasks. Safety-production compatibility was also found to mediate the relationship between trust in management and safe work behavior. The results of this field study suggest increased compatibility, and thus less conflict, between safety and production demands influences safe work behavior and the interference of safety hazards with performing other work tasks. More broadly, the worker's reaction to multiple work demands is a safety and performance influence. Safety management efforts that focus only on the hazards fail to eliminate many accidents because accidents arise from many factors including technology, safety climate, social influences, production, and safety demands. This study suggests that workers differ in their perception of the compatibility of safety and production demands. These differences will show up in safe work behavior, influencing the effectiveness of safety management efforts and the trust workers have in management's concern for safety.

Optical design for consumer products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Anurag

2014-10-01

Optical engineers often limit their focus on meeting the provided targets on performance and geometry and assume that the specifications are largely non-negotiable. Such approach ignores the value proposition behind the product and the challenges associated with overall product design, manufacturing, business development and legal issues. As a result, the design effort can be expensive, time consuming and can result in product failure. We discuss a product based systems engineering approach that leads to an application specific optical design that is more effective and efficient to implement.

Production and use of metals and oxygen for lunar propulsion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hepp, Aloysius F.; Linne, Diane L.; Landis, Geoffrey A.; Groth, Mary F.; Colvin, James E.

1991-01-01

Production, power, and propulsion technologies for using oxygen and metals derived from lunar resources are discussed. The production process is described, and several of the more developed processes are discussed. Power requirements for chemical, thermal, and electrical production methods are compared. The discussion includes potential impact of ongoing power technology programs on lunar production requirements. The performance potential of several possible metal fuels including aluminum, silicon, iron, and titanium are compared. Space propulsion technology in the area of metal/oxygen rocket engines is discussed.

Innovative technologies of waste recycling with production of high performance products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gilmanshin, R.; Ferenets, A. V.; Azimov, Yu I.; Galeeva, A. I.; Gilmanshina, S. I.

2015-06-01

The innovative ways of recycling wastes as a tool for sustainable development are presented in the article. The technology of the production of a composite material based on the rubber fiber composite waste tire industry is presented. The results of experimental use of the products in the real conditions. The comparative characteristics of the composite material rubber fiber composite are given. The production technology of construction and repairing materials on the basis of foamed glass is presented.

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

The Profile Interface Generator (PIG) is a tool for loosely coupling applications and performance tools. It enables applications to write code that looks like standard C and Fortran functions calls, without requiring that applications link to specific implementations of those function calls. Performance tools can register with PIG in order to listen to only the calls that give information they care about. This interface reduces the build and configuration burden on application developers and allows semantic instrumentation to live in production codes without interfering with production runs.

High performance liquid chromatographic determination of caffeine in decaffeinated coffee, tea, and beverage products.

PubMed

Ashoor, S H; Seperich, G J; Monte, W C; Welty, J

1983-05-01

A method was developed for determining caffeine in decaffeinated coffee, tea, and beverage products by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The HPLC system consisted of a Bio-Sil ODS-5S C18 column, methanol-water (25 + 75) mobile phase at 1 mL/min, and a UV detector. The method is simple and specific. Caffeine recoveries were 93.8-98.3% and coefficients of variation were 0.90-2.25%.

Technology and Development of Self-Reinforced Polymer Composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alcock, Ben; Peijs, Ton

In recent years there has been an increasing amount of interest, both commercially and scientifically, in the emerging field of "self-reinforced polymer composites". These materials, which are sometimes also referred to as "single polymer composites", or "all-polymer composites", were first conceived in the 1970s, and are now beginning to appear in a range of commercial products. While high mechanical performance polymer fibres or tapes are an obvious precursor for composite development, various different technologies have been developed to consolidate these into two- or three-dimensional structures. This paper presents a review of the various processing techniques that have been reported in the literature for the manufacture of self-reinforced polymer composites from fibres or tapes of different polymers, and so exploit the fibre or tape performance in a commercial material or product.

Enhancing The National Map Through Tactical Planning and Performance Monitoring

USGS Publications Warehouse

,

2008-01-01

Tactical planning and performance monitoring are initial steps toward improving 'the way The National Map works' and supporting the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Science Strategy. This Tactical Performance Planning Summary for The National Map combines information from The National Map 2.0 Tactical Plan and The National Map Performance Milestone Matrix. The National Map 2.0 Tactical Plan is primarily a working document to guide The National Map program's execution, production, and metrics monitoring for fiscal years (FY) 2008 and 2009. The Tactical Plan addresses data, products, and services, as well as supporting and enabling activities. The National Map's 2-year goal for FY 2008 and FY 2009 is to provide a range of geospatial products and services that further the National Spatial Data Infrastructure and underpin USGS science. To do this, the National Geospatial Program will develop a renewed understanding during FY 2008 of key customer needs and requirements, develop the infrastructure to support The National Map business model, modernize its business processes, and reengineer its workforce. Priorities for The National Map will be adjusted if necessary to respond to changes to the project that may impact resources, constrain timeframes, or change customer needs. The supporting and enabling activities that make it possible to produce the products and services of The National Map will include partnership activities, improved compatibility of systems, outreach, and integration of data themes.

Materials science tetrahedron--a useful tool for pharmaceutical research and development.

PubMed

Sun, Changquan Calvin

2009-05-01

The concept of materials science tetrahedron (MST) concisely depicts the inter-dependent relationship among the structure, properties, performance, and processing of a drug. Similar to its role in traditional materials science, MST encompasses the development in the emerging field of pharmaceutical materials science and forms a scientific foundation to the design and development of new drug products. Examples are given to demonstrate the applicability of MST to both pharmaceutical research and product development. It is proposed that a systematic implementation of MST can expedite the transformation of pharmaceutical product development from an art to a science. By following the principle of MST, integration of research among different laboratories can be attained. The pharmaceutical science community as a whole can conduct more efficient, collaborative, and coherent research.

Trends in data locality abstractions for HPC systems

DOE PAGES

Unat, Didem; Dubey, Anshu; Hoefler, Torsten; ...

2017-05-10

The cost of data movement has always been an important concern in high performance computing (HPC) systems. It has now become the dominant factor in terms of both energy consumption and performance. Support for expression of data locality has been explored in the past, but those efforts have had only modest success in being adopted in HPC applications for various reasons. However, with the increasing complexity of the memory hierarchy and higher parallelism in emerging HPC systems, locality management has acquired a new urgency. Developers can no longer limit themselves to low-level solutions and ignore the potential for productivity andmore » performance portability obtained by using locality abstractions. Fortunately, the trend emerging in recent literature on the topic alleviates many of the concerns that got in the way of their adoption by application developers. Data locality abstractions are available in the forms of libraries, data structures, languages and runtime systems; a common theme is increasing productivity without sacrificing performance. Furthermore, this paper examines these trends and identifies commonalities that can combine various locality concepts to develop a comprehensive approach to expressing and managing data locality on future large-scale high-performance computing systems.« less

Development of processes for the production of solar grade silicon from halides and alkali metals

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dickson, C. R.; Gould, R. K.

1980-01-01

High temperature reactions of silicon halides with alkali metals for the production of solar grade silicon in volume at low cost were studied. Experiments were performed to evaluate product separation and collection processes, measure heat release parameters for scaling purposes, determine the effects of reactants and/or products on materials of reactor construction, and make preliminary engineering and economic analyses of a scaled-up process.

Efficiency and productivity of hospitals in Vietnam.

PubMed

Pham, Thuy Linh

2011-01-01

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relative efficiency and productivity of hospitals during the health reform process. Data envelopment analyses method (DEA) with the input-oriented variable-returns-to-scale model was used to calculate efficiency scores. Malmquist total factor productivity index approach was then employed to calculate productivity of hospitals. Data of 101 hospitals was extracted from databases of the Ministry of Health, Vietnam from the years 1998 to 2006. There was evidence of improvement in overall technical efficiency from 65 per cent in 1998 to 76 per cent in 2006. Hospitals' productivity progressed around 1.4 per cent per year, which was mainly due to the technical efficiency improvement. Furthermore, provincial hospitals were more technically efficient than their central counterparts and hospitals located in different regions performed differently. The paper provides an insight in the performance of Vietnamese public hospitals that has been rarely examined before and contributes to the existing literature of hospital performance in developing countries

Methods of increasing the performance of radionuclide generators used in nuclear medicine: daughter nuclide build-up optimisation, elution-purification-concentration integration, and effective control of radionuclidic purity.

PubMed

Le, Van So; Do, Zoe Phuc-Hien; Le, Minh Khoi; Le, Vicki; Le, Natalie Nha-Truc

2014-06-10

Methods of increasing the performance of radionuclide generators used in nuclear medicine radiotherapy and SPECT/PET imaging were developed and detailed for 99Mo/99mTc and 68Ge/68Ga radionuclide generators as the cases. Optimisation methods of the daughter nuclide build-up versus stand-by time and/or specific activity using mean progress functions were developed for increasing the performance of radionuclide generators. As a result of this optimisation, the separation of the daughter nuclide from its parent one should be performed at a defined optimal time to avoid the deterioration in specific activity of the daughter nuclide and wasting stand-by time of the generator, while the daughter nuclide yield is maintained to a reasonably high extent. A new characteristic parameter of the formation-decay kinetics of parent/daughter nuclide system was found and effectively used in the practice of the generator production and utilisation. A method of "early elution schedule" was also developed for increasing the daughter nuclide production yield and specific radioactivity, thus saving the cost of the generator and improving the quality of the daughter radionuclide solution. These newly developed optimisation methods in combination with an integrated elution-purification-concentration system of radionuclide generators recently developed is the most suitable way to operate the generator effectively on the basis of economic use and improvement of purposely suitable quality and specific activity of the produced daughter radionuclides. All these features benefit the economic use of the generator, the improved quality of labelling/scan, and the lowered cost of nuclear medicine procedure. Besides, a new method of quality control protocol set-up for post-delivery test of radionuclidic purity has been developed based on the relationship between gamma ray spectrometric detection limit, required limit of impure radionuclide activity and its measurement certainty with respect to optimising decay/measurement time and product sample activity used for QC quality control. The optimisation ensures a certainty of measurement of the specific impure radionuclide and avoids wasting the useful amount of valuable purified/concentrated daughter nuclide product. This process is important for the spectrometric measurement of very low activity of impure radionuclide contamination in the radioisotope products of much higher activity used in medical imaging and targeted radiotherapy.

Design for Health and Well Being: Knitted Products for Diabetics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gault, A.

2016-07-01

This paper will discuss the design development, manufacturing and testing of knitted products maximizing the use of new innovations in Nano- technology and the integration of Phase Changing Materials specifically for diabetics. The project identified key aspects requiring design solutions to bring improvement to the circulatory problems with specific reference to the diabetic condition. Diabetics have particular difficulty in regulating their body temperature and this can result in the condition worsening, and resulting in loss of digits or limbs. The design of products to prevent the deterioration of the diabetic condition and to help those with limb loss was developed in collaboration with a Northern Ireland diabetic consultant, a product engineer and a knitwear designer. The fusion of ideas between the stakeholders resulted in the development and manufacture of a range of products that have been successfully tested at the yarn and fabric development stage and have been proven to maintain body temperature by either cooling or warming and therefore bring improvement to health and well-being. Whilst the product has a performance element the design ideas created desirable products that not only provided solutions to the brief but also resulted in products that had further market applications.

Development of a Feedstock-to-Product Chain Model for Densified Biomass Pellets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McPherrin, Daniel

The Q’Pellet is a spherical, torrefied biomass pellet currently under development. It aims to improve on the shortcomings of commercially available cylindrical white and torrefied pellets. A spreadsheet-based model was developed to allow for techno-economic analysis and simplified life cycle analysis of Q’Pellets, torrefied pellets and white pellets. A case study was developed to compare the production of white, torrefied and Q’Pellet production based on their internal rates of return and life cycle greenhouse gas emissions. The case study was based on a commercial scale plant built in Williams Lake BC with product delivery in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Q’Pellets had the highest modelled internal rate of return, at 12.7%, with white pellets at 11.1% and torrefied pellets at 8.0%. The simplified life cycle analysis showed that Q’Pellets had the lowest life cycle greenhouse gas emissions of the three products, 6.96 kgCO2eq/GJ, compared to 21.50 kgCO2eq/GJ for white pellets and 10.08 kgCO2eq/GJ for torrefied pellets. At these levels of life cycle greenhouse gas emissions, white pellets are above the maximum life cycle emissions to be considered sustainable under EU regulations. Sensitivity analysis was performed on the model by modifying input variables, and showed that white pellets are more sensitive to uncontrollable market variables, especially pellet sale prices, raw biomass prices and transportation costs. Monte Carlo analysis was also performed, which showed that white pellet production is less predictable and more likely to lead to a negative internal rate of return compared to Q’Pellet production.

An Inventory Battery to Predict Navy and Marine Corps Recruiter Performance: Development and Validation

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-05-01

Cross-Validation Strategies to Diferent Sections of the Predictor Batery ..................... 27 Personality Scales . . . . . . . . . . . . 0. . a...he generated several performance indices on the basis of assumptions about the recruiting environment and geographical differences in production

48 CFR 742.1170 - Performance monitoring and progress reporting.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Performance monitoring and progress reporting. 742.1170 Section 742.1170 Federal Acquisition Regulations System AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Production, Surveillance, and Reporting...

48 CFR 42.302 - Contract administration functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

...) Perform preaward surveys (see Subpart 9.1). (33) Advise and assist contractors regarding their priorities... with contractual terms for schedule, cost, and technical performance in the areas of design... efforts and management systems that relate to design, development, production, engineering changes...

48 CFR 42.302 - Contract administration functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

...) Perform preaward surveys (see Subpart 9.1). (33) Advise and assist contractors regarding their priorities... with contractual terms for schedule, cost, and technical performance in the areas of design... efforts and management systems that relate to design, development, production, engineering changes...

48 CFR 42.302 - Contract administration functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

...) Perform preaward surveys (see Subpart 9.1). (33) Advise and assist contractors regarding their priorities... with contractual terms for schedule, cost, and technical performance in the areas of design... efforts and management systems that relate to design, development, production, engineering changes...

48 CFR 42.302 - Contract administration functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...) Perform preaward surveys (see Subpart 9.1). (33) Advise and assist contractors regarding their priorities... with contractual terms for schedule, cost, and technical performance in the areas of design... efforts and management systems that relate to design, development, production, engineering changes...

48 CFR 742.1170 - Performance monitoring and progress reporting.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 48 Federal Acquisition Regulations System 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Performance monitoring and progress reporting. 742.1170 Section 742.1170 Federal Acquisition Regulations System AGENCY FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT CONTRACT MANAGEMENT CONTRACT ADMINISTRATION Production, Surveillance, and Reporting...

Gut immunity: Its development and reasons and opportunities for modulation in monogastric production animals

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The intestine must perform the critical role of nutrient acquisition whilst preventing the passage of undesirable microbes or microbial products from the external environment to sterile body compartments. Various components contribute to antimicrobial defenses in the intestine. The mucus layer(s),...

Selfing rate in an alfalfa seed production field pollinated with leafcutter bees

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Self-pollination or “selfing” in autotetraploid alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) (2n = 4x = 32) leads to severe inbreeding depression. Investigating selfing in alfalfa seed production may allow mitigation strategy development against potential negative impacts of selfing on varietal performance. Using m...

Qualitative Investigation of the Decomposition of Organic Solvent Based Lithium Ion Battery Electrolytes with LC-IT-TOF-MS.

PubMed

Schultz, Carola; Vedder, Sven; Winter, Martin; Nowak, Sascha

2016-11-15

The development of a novel high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method hyphenated to an ion-trap time-of-flight mass spectrometer (IT-TOF-MS) for the separation and identification of constituents from common organic carbonate solvent-based electrolyte systems in lithium ion batteries (LIBs) is presented in this work. The method development was conducted for the qualitative structural elucidation of electrolyte main constituents with a special focus on the aging products of these components. The determination of their limits of detection was performed as well. Four different LiPF 6 -based LIB electrolytes were investigated in this study. The selected aging procedures for the electrolytes were thermal aging (storage at 60 °C for 2 weeks, storage at 60 °C in the presence of 2 vol % water contamination for 2 weeks) and electrochemical aging for 100 cycles at 2C. After thermal aging, several aging products were identified. The formation of organic phosphate aging products and several organofluorophosphates aging products was observed after thermal aging with water. Additionally, the content of carbonate aging products increased. After electrochemical aging, several carbonate aging products were detected. Electrochemical aging at 60 °C leads to the additional generation of organofluorophosphate aging products.

Development and Implementation of the Casting of Rods Made of Refractory Cast Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kabanov, I. V.; Urin, S. L.; Ivanyuk, A. S.; Nesterov, A. N.; Bogdanov, S. V.

2017-12-01

The problems of the production of a so-called casting rod blank made of a refractory casting alloy in the vacuum induction furnaces of AO Metallurgical Plant Electrostal are considered. A unique technology of casting and subsequent treatment of as-cast rod blanks made of refractory alloys is developed, tested, and optimized. As a result of the developed and performed measures for the production of metal products in the Consarc furnace, the ingot-to-product yield increases by 15% as compared to metal casting in an ISV-1.0 furnace. As a result, we have widened the range of cast alloy grades and are going to cast metals for the manufacture of blanks of other sizes and ranges of alloy an steel grades.

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

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carter, Robert W.

2009-01-01

Full-scale weld process development is being performed at MSFC to develop the tools, fixtures, and facilities necessary for Ares I production. Full scale development in-house at MSFC fosters technical acuity within the NASA engineering community, and allows engineers to identify and correct tooling and equipment shortcomings before they become problems on the production floor. Finally, while the new weld process development facility is currently being outfitted in support of Ares I development, it has been established to support all future Constellation Program needs. In particular, both the RWT and VWT were sized with the larger Ares V hardware in mind.

Driving clinical study efficiency by using a productivity breakdown model: comparative evaluation of a global clinical study and a similar Japanese study.

PubMed

Takahashi, K; Sengoku, S; Kimura, H

2011-02-01

A fundamental management imperative of pharmaceutical companies is to contain surging costs of developing and launching drugs globally. Clinical studies are a research and development (R&D) cost driver. The objective of this study was to develop a productivity breakdown model, or a key performance indicator (KPI) tree, for an entire clinical study and to use it to compare a global clinical study with a similar Japanese study. We, thereby, hope to identify means of improving study productivity. We developed the new clinical study productivity breakdown model, covering operational aspects and cost factors. Elements for improving clinical study productivity were assessed from a management viewpoint by comparing empirical tracking data from a global clinical study with a Japanese study with similar protocols. The following unique and material differences, beyond simple international difference in cost of living, that could affect the efficiency of future clinical trials were identified: (i) more frequent site visits in the Japanese study, (ii) head counts at the Japanese study sites more than double those of the global study and (iii) a shorter enrollment time window of about a third that of the global study at the Japanese study sites. We identified major differences in the performance of the two studies. These findings demonstrate the potential of the KPI tree for improving clinical study productivity. Trade-offs, such as those between reduction in head count at study sites and expansion of the enrollment time window, must be considered carefully. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Growth and nutrition effects on gilt development

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The growth and development of gilts are a component of their lifetime potential for productivity. Growth and development affects not only their ability to reach puberty, they also likely affect their reproductive performance through later parities and their physical soundness as they age. Because of...

Data-driven battery product development: Turn battery performance into a competitive advantage.

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

Sholklapper, Tal

Poor battery performance is a primary source of user dissatisfaction across a broad range of applications, and is a key bottleneck hindering the growth of mobile technology, wearables, electric vehicles, and grid energy storage. Engineering battery systems is difficult, requiring extensive testing for vendor selection, BMS programming, and application-specific lifetime testing. This work also generates huge quantities of data. This presentation will explain how to leverage this data to help ship quality products faster using fewer resources while ensuring safety and reliability in the field, ultimately turning battery performance into a competitive advantage.

Skill ontogeny among Tsimane forager-horticulturalists.

PubMed

Schniter, Eric; Gurven, Michael; Kaplan, Hillard S; Wilcox, Nathaniel T; Hooper, Paul L

2015-09-01

We investigate whether age profiles of Tsimane forager-horticulturalists' reported skill development are consistent with predictions derived from life history theory about the timing of productivity and reproduction. Previous studies of forager skill development have often focused on a few abilities (e.g. hunting), and neglected the broad range of skills and services typical of forager economies (e.g. childcare, craft production, music performance, story-telling). By systematically examining age patterns in reported acquisition, proficiency, and expertise across a broad range of activities including food production, childcare, and other services, we provide the most complete skill development study of a traditional subsistence society to date. Our results show that: (1) most essential skills are acquired prior to first reproduction, then developed further so that their productive returns meet the increasing demands of dependent offspring during adulthood; (2) as postreproductive adults age beyond earlier years of peak performance, they report developing additional conceptual and procedural proficiency, and despite greater physical frailty than younger adults, are consensually regarded as the most expert (especially in music and storytelling), consistent with their roles as providers and educators. We find that adults have accurate understandings of their skillsets and skill levels -an important awareness for social exchange, comparison, learning, and pedagogy. These findings extend our understanding of the evolved human life history by illustrating how changes in embodied capital and the needs of dependent offspring predict the development of complementary skills and services in a forager-horticulturalist economy. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Importance of Method Selection in Determining Product Integrity for Nutrition Research1234

PubMed Central

Mudge, Elizabeth M; Brown, Paula N

2016-01-01

The American Herbal Products Association estimates that there as many as 3000 plant species in commerce. The FDA estimates that there are about 85,000 dietary supplement products in the marketplace. The pace of product innovation far exceeds that of analytical methods development and validation, with new ingredients, matrixes, and combinations resulting in an analytical community that has been unable to keep up. This has led to a lack of validated analytical methods for dietary supplements and to inappropriate method selection where methods do exist. Only after rigorous validation procedures to ensure that methods are fit for purpose should they be used in a routine setting to verify product authenticity and quality. By following systematic procedures and establishing performance requirements for analytical methods before method development and validation, methods can be developed that are both valid and fit for purpose. This review summarizes advances in method selection, development, and validation regarding herbal supplement analysis and provides several documented examples of inappropriate method selection and application. PMID:26980823

The Importance of Method Selection in Determining Product Integrity for Nutrition Research.

PubMed

Mudge, Elizabeth M; Betz, Joseph M; Brown, Paula N

2016-03-01

The American Herbal Products Association estimates that there as many as 3000 plant species in commerce. The FDA estimates that there are about 85,000 dietary supplement products in the marketplace. The pace of product innovation far exceeds that of analytical methods development and validation, with new ingredients, matrixes, and combinations resulting in an analytical community that has been unable to keep up. This has led to a lack of validated analytical methods for dietary supplements and to inappropriate method selection where methods do exist. Only after rigorous validation procedures to ensure that methods are fit for purpose should they be used in a routine setting to verify product authenticity and quality. By following systematic procedures and establishing performance requirements for analytical methods before method development and validation, methods can be developed that are both valid and fit for purpose. This review summarizes advances in method selection, development, and validation regarding herbal supplement analysis and provides several documented examples of inappropriate method selection and application. © 2016 American Society for Nutrition.

Biofloc technology application in aquaculture to support sustainable development goals.

PubMed

Bossier, Peter; Ekasari, Julie

2017-09-01

Biofloc technology (BFT) application offers benefits in improving aquaculture production that could contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals. This technology could result in higher productivity with less impact to the environment. Furthermore, biofloc systems may be developed and performed in integration with other food production, thus promoting productive integrated systems, aiming at producing more food and feed from the same area of land with fewer input. The biofloc technology is still in its infant stage. A lot more research is needed to optimise the system (in relation to operational parameters) e.g. in relation to nutrient recycling, MAMP production, immunological effects. In addition research findings will need to be communicated to farmers as the implementation of biofloc technology will require upgrading their skills. © 2017 The Authors. Microbial Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Society for Applied Microbiology.

The technical consideration of multi-beam mask writer for production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Sang Hee; Ahn, Byung-Sup; Choi, Jin; Shin, In Kyun; Tamamushi, Shuichi; Jeon, Chan-Uk

2016-10-01

Multi-beam mask writer is under development to solve the throughput and patterning resolution problems in VSB mask writer. Theoretically, the writing time is appropriate for future design node and the resolution is improved with multi-beam mask writer. Many previous studies show the feasible results of resolution, CD control and registration. Although such technical results of development tool seem to be enough for mass production, there are still many unexpected problems for real mass production. In this report, the technical challenges of multi-beam mask writer are discussed in terms of production and application. The problems and issues are defined based on the performance of current development tool compared with the requirements of mask quality. Using the simulation and experiment, we analyze the specific characteristics of electron beam in multi-beam mask writer scheme. Consequently, we suggest necessary specifications for mass production with multi-beam mask writer in the future.

Development and Application of High Performance Quenched and Tempered Wear Resistant Steels in Material Handling and Construction Machinery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Fenwei; Sidiras, Evangelos

The demand for more sustainable development promotes the need for components and steel structures with a longer useful life and better performance. Upgrade of wear steel plate used in key industry segments such as mining, recycling and road building results in the stable growth of global market with high quality grade Q&T wear plates (Hardness HBW≥400, and Yield strength ≥690 Mpa). SSAB has now expanded its wear steel product range by both thicker and thinner Q&T plate to meet the needs of the market, and can offer wear plates from 0.7 mm to 160 mm. The continuous research and development is being done to offer even thicker plates. This article introduces the performance and advantages of high quality grade Q&T wear resistant steel products (plate, strip, tube and round bars) produced in SSAB, and also describes typical applications in some industrial segments such as material handling and construction machinery.

Minimizing mixing intensity to improve the performance of rice straw anaerobic digestion via enhanced development of microbe-substrate aggregates.

PubMed

Kim, Moonkyung; Kim, Byung-Chul; Choi, Yongju; Nam, Kyoungphile

2017-12-01

The aim of this work was to study the effect of the differential development of microbe-substrate aggregates at different mixing intensities on the performance of anaerobic digestion of rice straw. Batch and semi-continuous reactors were operated for up to 50 and 300days, respectively, under different mixing intensities. In both batch and semi-continuous reactors, minimal mixing conditions exhibited maximum methane production and lignocellulose biodegradability, which both had strong correlations with the development of microbe-substrate aggregates. The results implied that the aggregated microorganisms on the particulate substrate played a key role in rice straw hydrolysis, determining the performance of anaerobic digestion. Increasing the mixing speed from 50 to 150rpm significantly reduced the methane production rate by disintegrating the microbe-substrate aggregates in the semi-continuous reactor. A temporary stress of high-speed mixing fundamentally affected the microbial communities, increasing the possibility of chronic reactor failure. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development of a Production Ready Automated Wire Delivery System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

The current development effort is a Phase 3 research study entitled "A Production Ready Automated Wire Delivery System", contract number NAS8-39933, awarded to Nichols Research Corporation (NRC). The goals of this research study were to production harden the existing Automated Wire Delivery (AWDS) motion and sensor hardware and test the modified AWDS in a range of welding applications. In addition, the prototype AWDS controller would be moved to the VME bus platform by designing, fabricating and testing a single board VME bus AWDS controller. This effort was to provide an AWDS that could transition from the laboratory environment to production operations. The project was performed in two development steps. Step 1 modified and tested an improved MWG. Step 2 developed and tested the AWDS single board VME bus controller. Step 3 installed the Wire Pilot in a Weld Controller with the imbedded VME bus controller.

Development of pulsed processes for the manufacture of solar cells. Quarterly progress report No. 3, April--July 1978

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

Not Available

1978-07-01

Third quarter results under a program to develop ion implantation and specialized, associated processes necessary to achieve automated production of silicon solar cells are described. An ion implantation facility development for solar cell production is described, and a design for an automated production implanter is presented. Also, solar cell development efforts using combined ion implantation and pulsed energy techniques are discussed. Cell performance comparisons have also been made in which junctions and back surface fields were prepared by diffusion and ion implantation. A model is presented to explain the mechanism of ion implantation damage annealing using pulsed energy sources. Functionalmore » requirements have been determined for a pulsed electron beam processor for annealing ion implantation damage at a rate compatible with a 100 milliampere ion implanter. These rates result in a throughput of 100 megawatts of solar cell product per year.« less

Methodology for cloud-based design of robots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ogorodnikova, O. M.; Vaganov, K. A.; Putimtsev, I. D.

2017-09-01

This paper presents some important results for cloud-based designing a robot arm by a group of students. Methodology for the cloud-based design was developed and used to initiate interdisciplinary project about research and development of a specific manipulator. The whole project data files were hosted by Ural Federal University data center. The 3D (three-dimensional) model of the robot arm was created using Siemens PLM software (Product Lifecycle Management) and structured as a complex mechatronics product by means of Siemens Teamcenter thin client; all processes were performed in the clouds. The robot arm was designed in purpose to load blanks up to 1 kg into the work space of the milling machine for performing student's researches.

Centers of Stability Analysis - The Missing Framework in Joint Intelligence Preparation of the Operational Environment Doctrine

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-05-04

UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) AND ADDRESS(ES) 8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER...13 The general considerations for shaping operations are to organize and train forces, rehearse for future actions, maintaining operational area...threat. In reality, however, a prudent intelligence organization will begin to develop these products as indications develop that the shaping

Trade-offs between pasture production and farmland bird conservation: exploration of options using a dynamic farm model.

PubMed

Sabatier, R; Teillard, F; Rossing, W A H; Doyen, L; Tichit, M

2015-05-01

In European grassland landscapes, grazing and mowing play a key role for the maintenance of high-quality habitats that host important bird populations. As grasslands are also key resources for cattle feeding, there is a need to develop management strategies that achieve the double objective of production and biodiversity conservation. The objective of this study was to use a modelling approach to generate recognisable patterns of bird dynamics in farms composed of different land use proportions, and to compare their production and ecological dimensions. We developed a dynamic model, which linked grassland management to bird population dynamics at the field and farm levels. The model was parameterised for two types of suckling farms corresponding to contrasting levels of grassland intensification and for two bird species of high conservation value. A viability algorithm was used to define and assess viable management strategies for production and ecological performance so as to draw the shape of the relationship between both types of performances for the two types of farms. Our results indicated that, at the farm level, there was a farming system effect with a negative and non-linear relationship linking performance. Improving bird population maintenance was less costly in extensive farms compared with intensive farms. At the field level, the model predicted the timing and intensity of land use, maximising either production or ecological performance. The results suggested that multi-objective grassland management would benefit from public policies that consider levels of organisation higher than the field level, such as the farm or the landscape.

The cascade high productivity language

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Callahan, David; Chamberlain, Branford L.; Zima, Hans P.

2004-01-01

This paper describes the design of Chapel, the Cascade High Productivity Language, which is being developed in the DARPA-funded HPCS project Cascade led by Cray Inc. Chapel pushes the state-of-the-art in languages for HEC system programming by focusing on productivity, in particular by combining the goal of highest possible object code performance with that of programmability offered by a high-level user interface.

Increasing radiographer productivity by an incentive point system.

PubMed

Williams, B; Chacko, P T

1982-01-01

Because of a very low technologist productivity in their Radiology Department, the authors describe a Productive Point System they developed and implemented to solve this personnel problem. After establishing the average time required to perform all exams, point credits (one point for every ten minutes utilized) were assigned to each exam performed, thereby determining an index of production. A Productive Index of 80% was considered realistic and was the equivalent of 192 points for a 40-hour work week. From 1975 to 1978 personal productivity increased from 79% to 113%. This resulted in an average yearly fiscal savings of over $20,000.00 for this three-year period. There was also a significant improvement in exam efficiency and quality, job attitude, personnel morale, and public relations. This program was highly successful because technologist acceptance and cooperation was complete, and this occurred mainly because the system supports the normal occupational goals and expectations of technologists.

Increasing radiographer productivity by an incentive point system.

PubMed

Williams, B; Chacko, P T

1983-01-01

Because of a very low technologist productivity in their Radiology Department, the authors describe a Productive Point System they developed and implemented to solve this personnel problem. After establishing the average time required to perform all exams, point credits (one point for every ten minutes utilized) were assigned to each exam performed, thereby determining an index of production. A Productive Index of 80% was considered realistic and was the equivalent of 192 points for a 40-hour work week. From 1975 to 1978 personal productivity increased from 79% to 113%. This resulted in an average yearly fiscal savings of over $20,000.00 for this three-year period. There was also a significant improvement in exam efficiency and quality, job attitude, personnel morale, and public relations. This program was highly successful because technologist acceptance and cooperation was complete, and this occurred mainly because the system supports the normal occupational goals and expectations of technologists.

A novel integrated assessment methodology of urban water reuse.

PubMed

Listowski, A; Ngo, H H; Guo, W S; Vigneswaran, S

2011-01-01

Wastewater is no longer considered a waste product and water reuse needs to play a stronger part in securing urban water supply. Although treatment technologies for water reclamation have significantly improved the question that deserves further analysis is, how selection of a particular wastewater treatment technology relates to performance and sustainability? The proposed assessment model integrates; (i) technology, characterised by selected quantity and quality performance parameters; (ii) productivity, efficiency and reliability criteria; (iii) quantitative performance indicators; (iv) development of evaluation model. The challenges related to hierarchy and selections of performance indicators have been resolved through the case study analysis. The goal of this study is to validate a new assessment methodology in relation to performance of the microfiltration (MF) technology, a key element of the treatment process. Specific performance data and measurements were obtained at specific Control and Data Acquisition Points (CP) to satisfy the input-output inventory in relation to water resources, products, material flows, energy requirements, chemicals use, etc. Performance assessment process contains analysis and necessary linking across important parametric functions leading to reliable outcomes and results.

Cooperative fuzzy games approach to setting target levels of ECs in quality function deployment.

PubMed

Yang, Zhihui; Chen, Yizeng; Yin, Yunqiang

2014-01-01

Quality function deployment (QFD) can provide a means of translating customer requirements (CRs) into engineering characteristics (ECs) for each stage of product development and production. The main objective of QFD-based product planning is to determine the target levels of ECs for a new product or service. QFD is a breakthrough tool which can effectively reduce the gap between CRs and a new product/service. Even though there are conflicts among some ECs, the objective of developing new product is to maximize the overall customer satisfaction. Therefore, there may be room for cooperation among ECs. A cooperative game framework combined with fuzzy set theory is developed to determine the target levels of the ECs in QFD. The key to develop the model is the formulation of the bargaining function. In the proposed methodology, the players are viewed as the membership functions of ECs to formulate the bargaining function. The solution for the proposed model is Pareto-optimal. An illustrated example is cited to demonstrate the application and performance of the proposed approach.

Cooperative Fuzzy Games Approach to Setting Target Levels of ECs in Quality Function Deployment

PubMed Central

Yang, Zhihui; Chen, Yizeng; Yin, Yunqiang

2014-01-01

Quality function deployment (QFD) can provide a means of translating customer requirements (CRs) into engineering characteristics (ECs) for each stage of product development and production. The main objective of QFD-based product planning is to determine the target levels of ECs for a new product or service. QFD is a breakthrough tool which can effectively reduce the gap between CRs and a new product/service. Even though there are conflicts among some ECs, the objective of developing new product is to maximize the overall customer satisfaction. Therefore, there may be room for cooperation among ECs. A cooperative game framework combined with fuzzy set theory is developed to determine the target levels of the ECs in QFD. The key to develop the model is the formulation of the bargaining function. In the proposed methodology, the players are viewed as the membership functions of ECs to formulate the bargaining function. The solution for the proposed model is Pareto-optimal. An illustrated example is cited to demonstrate the application and performance of the proposed approach. PMID:25097884

Advanced uncooled sensor product development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kennedy, A.; Masini, P.; Lamb, M.; Hamers, J.; Kocian, T.; Gordon, E.; Parrish, W.; Williams, R.; LeBeau, T.

2015-06-01

The partnership between RVS, Seek Thermal and Freescale Semiconductor continues on the path to bring the latest technology and innovation to both military and commercial customers. The partnership has matured the 17μm pixel for volume production on the Thermal Weapon Sight (TWS) program in efforts to bring advanced production capability to produce a low cost, high performance product. The partnership has developed the 12μm pixel and has demonstrated performance across a family of detector sizes ranging from formats as small as 206 x 156 to full high definition formats. Detector pixel sensitivities have been achieved using the RVS double level advanced pixel structure. Transition of the packaging of microbolometers from a traditional die level package to a wafer level package (WLP) in a high volume commercial environment is complete. Innovations in wafer fabrication techniques have been incorporated into this product line to assist in the high yield required for volume production. The WLP seal yield is currently > 95%. Simulated package vacuum lives >> 20 years have been demonstrated through accelerated life testing where the package has been shown to have no degradation after 2,500 hours at 150°C. Additionally the rugged assembly has shown no degradation after mechanical shock and vibration and thermal shock testing. The transition to production effort was successfully completed in 2014 and the WLP design has been integrated into multiple new production products including the TWS and the innovative Seek Thermal commercial product that interfaces directly to an iPhone or android device.

78 FR 77427 - Proposed Information Collection; Comment Request; Building for Environmental and Economic...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-12-23

... Commerce, as part of its continuing effort to reduce paperwork and respondent burden, invites the general... of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed and automated an approach for measuring the life... program to collect data from product manufacturers so that the environmental performance of their products...

Engineered and Other Wood Products - An Opportunity to "Grow the Pie"

Treesearch

Albert Schuler; Craig Adair

2003-01-01

The market for engineered wood products (EWP) is being driven by a number of factors including: technology; reduced availability of old-growth timber; construction activity, and globalization. Specifically, technological developments have allowed the industry to "engineer" or "design" improved performance properties and to utilize former "weed...

CONTROL OF MICROBIAL CONTAMINANTS AND DISINFECTION BY-PRODUCTS (DBPS): COST AND PERFORMANCE

EPA Science Inventory

The USEPA is in the process of developing a sophisticated regulatory strategy in an attempt to balance the complex trade-offs in risks associated with controlling disinfectants and disinfection by-products (D/DBPs) in drinking water. EPA first attempted to control DBPs in 1974, w...

Human Resource Development, Ethics, and the Social Good

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Quinn, Floyd F.

2018-01-01

Businesses can achieve competitive advantage and better productivity and performance by attracting and developing exceptional employees, by caring for and listening to stakeholders, and by avoiding financial and reputational damage due to unethical and illegal behaviors. As a profession, human resource development (HRD) engages in practices that…

Comparative renal anatomy of exotic species.

PubMed

Holz, Peter H; Raidal, Shane R

2006-01-01

All living organisms consume nutrients that are required for the production of both tissue and energy. The waste products of this process include nitrogenous materials and inorganic salts. They are removed from the body by excretory organs, which in vertebrate shave developed into kidneys and into salt glands in some birds and reptiles. Many invertebrates use a series of excretory organs called nephridia to perform the same function. Even though they perform similar functions, there is no evolutionary connection between invertebrate nephridia and vertebrate kidneys. Both evolved independently.

Developing product quality standards for wheelchairs used in less-resourced environments

PubMed Central

McCambridge, Matt; Reese, Norman; Schoendorfer, Don; Wunderlich, Eric; Rushman, Chris; Mahilo, Dave

2017-01-01

Background Premature failures of wheelchairs in less-resourced environments (LREs) may be because of shortcomings in product regulation and quality standards. The standards published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) specify wheelchair tests for durability, safety and performance, but their applicability to products used in the rugged conditions of LREs is unclear. Because of this, wheelchair-related guidelines published by the World Health Organization recommended developing more rigorous durability tests for wheelchairs. Objectives This study was performed to identify the additional tests needed for LREs. Methods First, a literature review of the development of ISO test standards, wheelchair standards testing studies and wheelchair evaluations in LREs was performed. Second, expert advice from members of the Standards Working Group of the International Society of Wheelchair Professionals (ISWP) was compiled and reviewed. Results A total of 35 articles were included in the literature review. Participation from LREs was not observed in the ISO standards development. As per wheelchair testing study evidence, wheelchair models delivered in LREs did not meet the minimum standards requirement. Multiple part failures and repairs were observed with reviewed field evaluation studies. ISWP experts noted that several testing factors responsible for premature failures with wheelchair parts are not included in the standards and accordingly provided advice for additional test development. Conclusion The study findings indicate the need to develop a wide range of tests, with specific tests for measuring corrosion resistance of the entire wheelchair, rolling resistance of castors and rear wheels, and durability of whole wheelchair and castor assemblies. PMID:28936410

Quality risk management in pharmaceutical development.

PubMed

Charoo, Naseem Ahmad; Ali, Areeg Anwer

2013-07-01

The objective of ICH Q8, Q9 and Q10 documents is application of systemic and science based approach to formulation development for building quality into product. There is always some uncertainty in new product development. Good risk management practice is essential for success of new product development in decreasing this uncertainty. In quality by design paradigm, the product performance properties relevant to the patient are predefined in target product profile (TPP). Together with prior knowledge and experience, TPP helps in identification of critical quality attributes (CQA's). Initial risk assessment which identifies risks to these CQA's provides impetus for product development. Product and process are designed to gain knowledge about these risks, devise strategies to eliminate or mitigate these risks and meet objectives set in TPP. By laying more emphasis on high risk events the protection level of patient is increased. The process being scientifically driven improves the transparency and reliability of the manufacturer. The focus on risk to the patient together with flexible development approach saves invaluable resources, increases confidence on quality and reduces compliance risk. The knowledge acquired in analysing risks to CQA's permits construction of meaningful design space. Within the boundaries of the design space, variation in critical material characteristics and process parameters must be managed in order to yield a product having the desired characteristics. Specifications based on product and process understanding are established such that product will meet the specifications if tested. In this way, the product is amenable to real time release, since specifications only confirm quality but they do not serve as a means of effective process control.

High-throughput micro-scale cultivations and chromatography modeling: Powerful tools for integrated process development.

PubMed

Baumann, Pascal; Hahn, Tobias; Hubbuch, Jürgen

2015-10-01

Upstream processes are rather complex to design and the productivity of cells under suitable cultivation conditions is hard to predict. The method of choice for examining the design space is to execute high-throughput cultivation screenings in micro-scale format. Various predictive in silico models have been developed for many downstream processes, leading to a reduction of time and material costs. This paper presents a combined optimization approach based on high-throughput micro-scale cultivation experiments and chromatography modeling. The overall optimized system must not necessarily be the one with highest product titers, but the one resulting in an overall superior process performance in up- and downstream. The methodology is presented in a case study for the Cherry-tagged enzyme Glutathione-S-Transferase from Escherichia coli SE1. The Cherry-Tag™ (Delphi Genetics, Belgium) which can be fused to any target protein allows for direct product analytics by simple VIS absorption measurements. High-throughput cultivations were carried out in a 48-well format in a BioLector micro-scale cultivation system (m2p-Labs, Germany). The downstream process optimization for a set of randomly picked upstream conditions producing high yields was performed in silico using a chromatography modeling software developed in-house (ChromX). The suggested in silico-optimized operational modes for product capturing were validated subsequently. The overall best system was chosen based on a combination of excellent up- and downstream performance. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Early assessment of Integrated Multi-satellite Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement over China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guo, Hao; Chen, Sheng; Bao, Anming; Behrangi, Ali; Hong, Yang; Ndayisaba, Felix; Hu, Junjun; Stepanian, Phillip M.

2016-07-01

Two post-real time precipitation products from the Integrated Multi-satellite Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement Mission (IMERG) are systematically evaluated over China with China daily Precipitation Analysis Product (CPAP) as reference. The IMERG products include the gauge-corrected IMERG product (IMERG_Cal) and the version of IMERG without direct gauge correction (IMERG_Uncal). The post-research TRMM Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis version 7 (TMPA-3B42V7) is also evaluated concurrently with IMERG for better perspective. In order to be consistent with CPAP, the evaluation and comparison of selected products are performed at 0.25° and daily resolutions from 12 March 2014 through 28 February 2015. The results show that: Both IMERG and 3B42V7 show similar performances. Compared to IMERG_Uncal, IMERG_Cal shows significant improvement in overall and conditional bias and in the correlation coefficient. Both IMERG_Cal and IMERG_Uncal perform relatively poor in winter and over-detect slight precipitation events in northwestern China. As an early validation of the GPM-era IMERG products that inherit the TRMM-era global satellite precipitation products, these findings will provide useful feedbacks and insights for algorithm developers and data users over China and beyond.

The development of reproductive management practices in New Zealand: what will the future hold in a consumer-focused, environmentally-conscious, export-driven marketplace?

PubMed

Burke, C R; Verkerk, G A

2010-01-01

The New Zealand (NZ) economy and its dairy industry are sensitive to global consumer perception of farming practices used to generate milk products because milk exports account for > 25% of national export earnings and > 90% of milk produced is exported as products. Astute management of product image and market risk is, therefore, important for the viability of the industry and country. More than 95% of milk produced in NZ comes from strictly seasonal, pasture-based systems, with associated constraints on reproductive performance. Increasing herd sizes, operational changes and genetic selection priorities have further challenged dairy farmers to achieve optimal levels of herd fertility. Reproductive management practices have developed to address the need to maintain a 365-day inter-calving interval, essentially through maximizing the number of cyclic cows during the breeding period and minimizing the duration of the seasonal calving period. Aspects of the hormonal interventions developed and routinely used to achieve these objectives have been the subject of product quality and market risk concerns forcing the industry to explore alternative ways of achieving reproductive performance goals. One approach has been to exploit the inherently high level of fertility in NZ dairy herds. This approach has seen the inclusion of fertility-related traits in the national genetic evaluation system to prevent further decline in genetic fertility. More recently, a nationally coordinated extension program has been adopted to support farmers and their advisors to identify, prioritize and improve on key management areas for incremental gains in herd reproductive performance. Advances in automation and bio-sensing are yet to make a significant impact, but remain potentially valuable additions in supporting the dairy farmer to manage the areas having the largest effects on reproductive performance.

High-throughput process development: I. Process chromatography.

PubMed

Rathore, Anurag S; Bhambure, Rahul

2014-01-01

Chromatographic separation serves as "a workhorse" for downstream process development and plays a key role in removal of product-related, host cell-related, and process-related impurities. Complex and poorly characterized raw materials and feed material, low feed concentration, product instability, and poor mechanistic understanding of the processes are some of the critical challenges that are faced during development of a chromatographic step. Traditional process development is performed as trial-and-error-based evaluation and often leads to a suboptimal process. High-throughput process development (HTPD) platform involves an integration of miniaturization, automation, and parallelization and provides a systematic approach for time- and resource-efficient chromatography process development. Creation of such platforms requires integration of mechanistic knowledge of the process with various statistical tools for data analysis. The relevance of such a platform is high in view of the constraints with respect to time and resources that the biopharma industry faces today. This protocol describes the steps involved in performing HTPD of process chromatography step. It described operation of a commercially available device (PreDictor™ plates from GE Healthcare). This device is available in 96-well format with 2 or 6 μL well size. We also discuss the challenges that one faces when performing such experiments as well as possible solutions to alleviate them. Besides describing the operation of the device, the protocol also presents an approach for statistical analysis of the data that is gathered from such a platform. A case study involving use of the protocol for examining ion-exchange chromatography of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (GCSF), a therapeutic product, is briefly discussed. This is intended to demonstrate the usefulness of this protocol in generating data that is representative of the data obtained at the traditional lab scale. The agreement in the data is indeed very significant (regression coefficient 0.93). We think that this protocol will be of significant value to those involved in performing high-throughput process development of process chromatography.

Carbon Mineralization by Aqueous Precipitation for Beneficial Use of CO2 from Flue Gas

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

Brent Constantz; Randy Seeker; Martin Devenney

2010-06-30

Calera's innovative Mineralization via Aqueous Precipitation (MAP) technology for the capture and conversion of CO{sub 2} to useful materials for use in the built environment was further developed and proven in the Phase 1 Department of Energy Grant. The process was scaled to 300 gallon batch reactors and subsequently to Pilot Plant scale for the continuous production of product with the production of reactive calcium carbonate material that was evaluated as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM). The Calera SCM{trademark} was evaluated as a 20% replacement for ordinary portland cement and demonstrated to meet the industry specification ASTM 1157 which ismore » a standard performance specification for hydraulic cement. The performance of the 20% replacement material was comparable to the 100% ordinary portland cement control in terms of compressive strength and workability as measured by a variety of ASTM standard tests. In addition to the performance metrics, detailed characterization of the Calera SCM was performed using advanced analytical techniques to better understand the material interaction with the phases of ordinary portland cement. X-ray synchrotron diffraction studies at the Advanced Photon Source in Argonne National Lab confirmed the presence of an amorphous phase(s) in addition to the crystalline calcium carbonate phases in the reactive carbonate material. The presence of carboaluminate phases as a result of the interaction of the reactive carbonate materials with ordinary portland cement was also confirmed. A Life Cycle Assessment was completed for several cases based on different Calera process configurations and compared against the life cycle of ordinary portland cement. In addition to the materials development efforts, the Calera technology for the production of product using an innovative building materials demonstration plant was developed beyond conceptual engineering to a detailed design with a construction schedule and cost estimate.« less

Seizing market shaping opportunities for vaccine cold chain equipment.

PubMed

Azimi, Tara; Franzel, Lauren; Probst, Nina

2017-04-19

Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, supports immunisation programmes in eligible countries to reach children with lifesaving vaccines. Dramatic improvement in the scale and performance of current cold chain systems is required to extend the reach of immunisation services - especially for children living in remote locations - to advance progress towards full vaccine coverage. Achieving these improvements will require a healthier market for cold chain equipment where the products meet user needs, are sustainably priced, and are available in sufficient quantities to meet demand. Yet evidence suggests that the cold chain market has suffered from several failures including limited demand visibility, fragmented procurement, and insufficient information exchange between manufacturers and buyers on needs and equipment performance. One of Gavi's strategic goals is to shape markets for vaccines and other immunisation products, including cold chain equipment and in 2015, Gavi created a new mechanism - the Cold Chain Equipment (CCE) Optimisation Platform - to strengthen country cold chain systems by offering financial support and incentives for higher performing CCE. The main objective of the CCE Platform is to get more equipment that is efficient, sustainable, and better performing deployed to every health facility where it is required at an affordable price. To achieve these objectives, Gavi is putting in place tested market shaping approaches and tools adapted for the CCE market: the development of market strategies or 'roadmaps'; improvement of product performance through the development of target product profiles (TPPs); strategic engagement with CCE manufacturers and countries to enhance information sharing; and tailoring procurement tactics to the CCE market. These approaches and tools will allow for increased demand and supply of higher-performing, cost-effective and quality products. By strengthening immunisation systems with improved cold chain equipment, Gavi countries can begin to address the underlying problems limiting vaccine availability and improve the coverage and equity of vaccines. Copyright © 2017 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Development of pulsed processes for the manufacture of solar cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Minnucci, J. A.

1978-01-01

The results of a 1-year program to develop the processes required for low-energy ion implantation for the automated production of silicon solar cells are described. The program included: (1) demonstrating state-of-the-art ion implantation equipment and designing an automated ion implanter, (2) making efforts to improve the performance of ion-implanted solar cells to 16.5 percent AM1, (3) developing a model of the pulse annealing process used in solar cell production, and (4) preparing an economic analysis of the process costs of ion implantation.

Development and demonstration of manufacturing processes for fabricating graphite/Larc-160 polyimide structural elements, part 4, paragraph B

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1981-01-01

Progress in the development of processes for production of Celion/LARC-160 graphite-polyimide materials, quality control, and the fabrication of Space Shuttle composite structure components is reported. Liquid chromatographic analyses of three repeatibility batches were performed and are compared to previous Hexcel standard production and to variables study LARC-160 intermediate resins. Development of processes for chopped fiber molding are described and flexural strength, elastic modulus, and other physical and mechanical properties of the molding are presented.

Waterpipe industry products and marketing strategies: analysis of an industry trade exhibition

PubMed Central

Jawad, Mohammed; Nakkash, Rima T; Hawkins, Ben; Akl, Elie A

2016-01-01

Introduction Understanding product development and marketing strategies of transnational tobacco companies (TTCs) has been of vital importance in developing effective tobacco control policy. However, comparatively little is known of the waterpipe tobacco industry, which TTCs have recently entered. This study aimed to gain an understanding of waterpipe tobacco products and marketing strategies by visiting a waterpipe trade exhibition. Methods In April 2014 the first author attended an international waterpipe trade exhibition, recording descriptions of products and collecting all marketing items available. We described the purpose and function of all products, and performed a thematic analysis of messages in marketing material. Results We classified the waterpipe products into seven categories and noted product variation within categories. Electronic waterpipe products (which mimic electronic cigarettes) rarely appeared on waterpipe tobacco marketing material, but were displayed just as widely. Claims of reduced harm, safety and quality were paramount on marketing materials, regardless of whether they were promoting waterpipe tobacco, waterpipe tobacco-substitutes, electronic waterpipes or charcoal. Conclusions Waterpipe products are diverse in nature and are marketed as healthy and safe products. Furthermore, the development of electronic waterpipe products appear to be closely connected with the electronic cigarette industry, rather than the waterpipe tobacco manufacturers. Tobacco control policy must evolve to take account of the vast and expanding array of waterpipe products, and potentially also charcoal products developed for waterpipe smokers. We recommend tobacco-substitutes be classified as tobacco products. Continued surveillance of the waterpipe industry is warranted. PMID:26149455

Operational and environmental performance in China's thermal power industry: Taking an effectiveness measure as complement to an efficiency measure.

PubMed

Wang, Ke; Zhang, Jieming; Wei, Yi-Ming

2017-05-01

The trend toward a more fiercely competitive and strictly environmentally regulated electricity market in several countries, including China has led to efforts by both industry and government to develop advanced performance evaluation models that adapt to new evaluation requirements. Traditional operational and environmental efficiency measures do not fully consider the influence of market competition and environmental regulations and, thus, are not sufficient for the thermal power industry to evaluate its operational performance with respect to specific marketing goals (operational effectiveness) and its environmental performance with respect to specific emissions reduction targets (environmental effectiveness). As a complement to an operational efficiency measure, an operational effectiveness measure not only reflects the capacity of an electricity production system to increase its electricity generation through the improvement of operational efficiency, but it also reflects the system's capability to adjust its electricity generation activities to match electricity demand. In addition, as a complement to an environmental efficiency measure, an environmental effectiveness measure not only reflects the capacity of an electricity production system to decrease its pollutant emissions through the improvement of environmental efficiency, but it also reflects the system's capability to adjust its emissions abatement activities to fulfill environmental regulations. Furthermore, an environmental effectiveness measure helps the government regulator to verify the rationality of its emissions reduction targets assigned to the thermal power industry. Several newly developed effectiveness measurements based on data envelopment analysis (DEA) were utilized in this study to evaluate the operational and environmental performance of the thermal power industry in China during 2006-2013. Both efficiency and effectiveness were evaluated from the three perspectives of operational, environmental, and joint adjustments to each electricity production system. The operational and environmental performance changes over time were also captured through an effectiveness measure based on the global Malmquist productivity index. Our empirical results indicated that the performance of China's thermal power industry experienced significant progress during the study period and that policies regarding the development and regulation of the thermal power industry yielded the expected effects. However, the emissions reduction targets assigned to China's thermal power industry are loose and conservative. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Digital Methodology for the Design Process of Aerospace Assemblies with Sustainable Composite Processes & Manufacture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McEwan, W.; Butterfield, J.

2011-05-01

The well established benefits of composite materials are driving a significant shift in design and manufacture strategies for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Thermoplastic composites have advantages over the traditional thermosetting materials with regards to sustainability and environmental impact, features which are becoming increasingly pertinent in the aerospace arena. However, when sustainability and environmental impact are considered as design drivers, integrated methods for part design and product development must be developed so that any benefits of sustainable composite material systems can be assessed during the design process. These methods must include mechanisms to account for process induced part variation and techniques related to re-forming, recycling and decommissioning, which are in their infancy. It is proposed in this paper that predictive techniques related to material specification, part processing and product cost of thermoplastic composite components, be integrated within a Through Life Management (TLM) product development methodology as part of a larger strategy of product system modeling to improve disciplinary concurrency, realistic part performance, and to place sustainability at the heart of the design process. This paper reports the enhancement of digital manufacturing tools as a means of drawing simulated part manufacturing scenarios, real time costing mechanisms, and broader lifecycle performance data capture into the design cycle. The work demonstrates predictive processes for sustainable composite product manufacture and how a Product-Process-Resource (PPR) structure can be customised and enhanced to include design intent driven by `Real' part geometry and consequent assembly. your paper.

A new generation of small pixel pitch/SWaP cooled infrared detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Espuno, L.; Pacaud, O.; Reibel, Y.; Rubaldo, L.; Kerlain, A.; Péré-Laperne, N.; Dariel, A.; Roumegoux, J.; Brunner, A.; Kessler, A.; Gravrand, O.; Castelein, P.

2015-10-01

Following clear technological trends, the cooled IR detectors market is now in demand for smaller, more efficient and higher performance products. This demand pushes products developments towards constant innovations on detectors, read-out circuits, proximity electronics boards, and coolers. Sofradir was first to show a 10μm focal plane array (FPA) at DSS 2012, and announced the DAPHNIS 10μm product line back in 2014. This pixel pitch is a key enabler for infrared detectors with increased resolution. Sofradir recently achieved outstanding products demonstrations at this pixel pitch, which clearly demonstrate the benefits of adopting 10μm pixel pitch focal plane array-based detectors. Both HD and XGA Daphnis 10μm products also benefit from a global video datapath efficiency improvement by transitioning to digital video interfaces. Moreover, innovative smart pixels functionalities drastically increase product versatility. In addition to this strong push towards a higher pixels density, Sofradir acknowledges the need for smaller and lower power cooled infrared detector. Together with straightforward system interfaces and better overall performances, latest technological advances on SWAP-C (Size, Weight, Power and Cost) Sofradir products enable the advent of a new generation of high performance portable and agile systems (handheld thermal imagers, unmanned aerial vehicles, light gimbals etc...). This paper focuses on those features and performances that can make an actual difference in the field.

The Need for V&V in Reuse-Based Software Engineering

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Addy, Edward A.

1997-01-01

V&V is currently performed during application development for many systems, especially safety-critical and mission-critical systems. The V&V process is intended to discover errors, especially errors related to entire' domain or product line rather than a critical processing, as early as possible during the development process. The system application provides the context under which the software artifacts are validated. engineering. This paper describes a framework that extends V&V from an individual application system to a product line of systems that are developed within an architecture-based software engineering environment. This framework includes the activities of traditional application-level V&V, and extends these activities into the transition between domain engineering and application engineering. The framework includes descriptions of the types of activities to be performed during each of the life-cycle phases, and provides motivation for activities.

Thermo-Mechanical and Electrochemistry Modeling of Planar SOFC Stacks

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

Khaleel, Mohammad A.; Recknagle, Kurtis P.; Lin, Zijing

2002-12-01

Modeling activities at PNNL support design and development of modular SOFC systems. The SOFC stack modeling capability at PNNL has developed to a level at which planar stack designs can be compared and optimized for startup performance. Thermal-fluids and stress modeling is being performed to predict the transient temperature distribution and to determine the thermal stresses based on the temperature distribution. Current efforts also include the development of a model for calculating current density, cell voltage, and heat production in SOFC stacks with hydrogen or other fuels. The model includes the heat generation from both Joule heating and chemical reactions.more » It also accounts for species production and destruction via mass balance. The model is being linked to the finite element code MARC to allow for the evaluation of temperatures and stresses during steady state operations.« less

A carotenogenic mini-pathway introduced into white corn does not affect development or agronomic performance

PubMed Central

Zanga, Daniela; Capell, Teresa; Slafer, Gustavo A.; Christou, Paul; Savin, Roxana

2016-01-01

High-carotenoid corn (Carolight®) has been developed as a vehicle to deliver pro-vitamin A in the diet and thus address vitamin A deficiency in at-risk populations in developing countries. Like any other novel crop, the performance of Carolight® must be tested in different environments to ensure that optimal yields and productivity are maintained, particularly in this case to ensure that the engineered metabolic pathway does not attract a yield penalty. Here we compared the performance of Carolight® with its near isogenic white corn inbred parental line under greenhouse and field conditions, and monitored the stability of the introduced trait. We found that Carolight® was indistinguishable from its near isogenic line in terms of agronomic performance, particularly grain yield and its main components. We also established experimentally that the functionality of the introduced trait was indistinguishable when plants were grown in a controlled environment or in the field. Such thorough characterization under different agronomic conditions is rarely performed even for first-generation traits such as herbicide tolerance and pest resistance, and certainly not for complex second-generation traits such as the metabolic remodeling in the Carolight® variety. Our results therefore indicate that Carolight® can now be incorporated into breeding lines to generate hybrids with locally adapted varieties for further product development and assessment. PMID:27922071

A carotenogenic mini-pathway introduced into white corn does not affect development or agronomic performance.

PubMed

Zanga, Daniela; Capell, Teresa; Slafer, Gustavo A; Christou, Paul; Savin, Roxana

2016-12-06

High-carotenoid corn (Carolight®) has been developed as a vehicle to deliver pro-vitamin A in the diet and thus address vitamin A deficiency in at-risk populations in developing countries. Like any other novel crop, the performance of Carolight® must be tested in different environments to ensure that optimal yields and productivity are maintained, particularly in this case to ensure that the engineered metabolic pathway does not attract a yield penalty. Here we compared the performance of Carolight® with its near isogenic white corn inbred parental line under greenhouse and field conditions, and monitored the stability of the introduced trait. We found that Carolight® was indistinguishable from its near isogenic line in terms of agronomic performance, particularly grain yield and its main components. We also established experimentally that the functionality of the introduced trait was indistinguishable when plants were grown in a controlled environment or in the field. Such thorough characterization under different agronomic conditions is rarely performed even for first-generation traits such as herbicide tolerance and pest resistance, and certainly not for complex second-generation traits such as the metabolic remodeling in the Carolight® variety. Our results therefore indicate that Carolight® can now be incorporated into breeding lines to generate hybrids with locally adapted varieties for further product development and assessment.

Development of a reactor with carbon catalysts for modular-scale, low-cost electrochemical generation of H 2O 2

DOE PAGES

Chen, Zhihua; Chen, Shucheng; Siahrostami, Samira; ...

2017-03-01

The development of small-scale, decentralized reactors for H 2O 2 production that can couple to renewable energy sources would be of great benefit, particularly for water purification in the developing world. Herein, we describe our efforts to develop electrochemical reactors for H 2O 2 generation with high Faradaic efficiencies of >90%, requiring cell voltages of only ~1.6 V. The reactor employs a carbon-based catalyst that demonstrates excellent performance for H 2O 2 production under alkaline conditions, as demonstrated by fundamental studies involving rotating-ring disk electrode methods. Finally, the low-cost, membrane-free reactor design represents a step towards a continuous, modular-scale, de-centralizedmore » production of H 2O 2.« less

Introduction to the application of QbD principles for the development of monoclonal antibodies.

PubMed

Finkler, Christof; Krummen, Lynne

2016-09-01

Quality by Design (QbD) is a global regulatory initiative with the goal of enhancing pharmaceutical development through the proactive design of pharmaceutical manufacturing process and controls to consistently deliver the intended performance of the product. The principles of pharmaceutical development relevant to QbD are described in the ICH guidance documents (ICHQ8-11). An integrated set of risk assessments and their related elements developed at Roche/Genentech were designed to provide an overview of product and process knowledge for the production of a recombinant monoclonal antibody. This chapter introduces a publication series on the application of Quality by Design for biopharmaceuticals, with a focus on the development of recombinant monoclonal antibodies. The development of and overview on the QbD concept applied by Roche and Genentech is described and essential QbD elements are presented. Copyright © 2016 International Alliance for Biological Standardization. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microcomputer Applications for Library Instruction: Automation of Test and Assignment Scoring, and Student Record Keeping.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sugranes, Maria R.; Snider, Larry C.

1985-01-01

Describes the development of an automated library instruction records management system using microcomputer technology. Development described includes assessment of need, exploration of options, system design, and operational development. System products are identified and operational results are reported based on actual system performance.…

High Brightness OLED Lighting

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

Spindler, Jeffrey; Kondakova, Marina; Boroson, Michael

2016-05-25

In this work we describe the technology developments behind our current and future generations of high brightness OLED lighting panels. We have developed white and amber OLEDs with excellent performance based on the stacking approach. Current products achieve 40-60 lm/W, while future developments focus on achieving 80 lm/W or higher.

What is a new drug worth? An innovative model for performance-based pricing.

PubMed

Dranitsaris, G; Dorward, K; Owens, R C; Schipper, H

2015-05-01

This article focuses on a novel method to derive prices for new pharmaceuticals by making price a function of drug performance. We briefly review current models for determining price for a new product and discuss alternatives that have historically been favoured by various funding bodies. The progressive approach to drug pricing, proposed herein, may better address the views and concerns of multiple stakeholders in a developed healthcare system by acknowledging and incorporating input from disparate parties via comprehensive and successive negotiation stages. In proposing a valid construct for performance-based pricing, the following model seeks to achieve several crucial objectives: earlier and wider access to new treatments; improved transparency in drug pricing; multi-stakeholder involvement through phased pricing negotiations; recognition of innovative product performance and latent changes in value; an earlier and more predictable return for developers without sacrificing total return on investment (ROI); more involved and informed risk sharing by the end-user. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

CloudSat Level 3 Gridded Products: Introduction and Application to Evaluation of the MERRA-2 Reanalysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haynes, J. M.; Miller, S. D.; Partain, P.

2016-12-01

CloudSat mission data are currently available to the science community in the form of granule-level, single-orbit Level 2 products. Although this is useful for process-level studies and investigation of individual radar profiles, it is less convenient for regional studies or investigations requiring that cloud properties be aggregated over long periods of time. This aggregation process is not necessary straight-forward: it must be tailored to the specific data product and scientific data contained therein, it requires large amounts of data transfer, and care must be taken to perform the aggregation only on statistically significant spatial and temporal scales. To make CloudSat data more accessible to the broader scientific community and in order to better preserve the environmental data record, a suite of Level 3 (L3), gridded data products are being developed by the CloudSat Data Processing Center (DPC). These products are being developed in four broad categories: (1) radiation budget, (2) radar reflectivity, (3) precipitation incidence and type, and (4) microphysics. L3 products will be generated on both standard (i.e. fixed resolution) grids, and dynamically with user-configurable grid spacing and timescales via an online user interface. An important distinction of the current L3 development is in its usage of dynamically configurable histograms, allowing for representation of the detailed, non-Gaussian characteristics of the data distribution. This work serves to both introduce these products to the wider scientific community and demonstrate their utility for model and reanalysis evaluation. Toward the latter goal, an analysis of the new Modern Era Retrospective-Analysis for Research and Applications version 2 (MERRA-2) cloud products is performed using a development version of the CloudSat L3 products. L3 products are used to evaluate near-global cloud fraction, optical depth, cloud liquid and ice water content, shortwave and longwave cloud radiative effects, and precipitation occurrence. These results are then contrasted against the corresponding MERRA-2 fields, and the differences are explored in terms of potential improvements and/or shortcomings in both the reanalysis and observational products.

Glycerol-based sterilization bioindicator system from Bacillus atrophaeus: development, performance evaluation, and cost analysis.

PubMed

Sella, Sandra R B R; Gouvea, Patricia Milla; Gomes, Vanessa F; Vandenberghe, Luciana P S; Minozzo, João Carlos; Soccol, Carlos Ricardo

2013-02-01

The development of new value-added applications for glycerol is of worldwide interest because of the environmental and economic problems that may be caused by an excess of glycerol generated from biodiesel production. A novel use of glycerol as a major substrate for production of a low-cost sterilization biological indicator system (BIS; spores on a carrier plus a recovery medium) was investigated. A sequential experimental design strategy was applied for product development and optimization. The proposed recovery medium enables germination and outgrowth of heat-damaged spores, promoting a D (160 °C) value of 6.6 ± 0.1 min. Bacillus atrophaeus spores production by solid-state fermentation reached a 2.3 ± 1.2 × 10(8) CFU/g dry matter. Sporulation kinetics results allowed this process to be restricted in 48 h. Germination kinetics demonstrated the visual identification of nonsterile BIS within 24 h. Performance evaluation of the proposed BIS against dry-heat and ethylene oxide sterilization showed compliance with the regulatory requirements. Cost breakdowns were from 41.8 (quality control) up to 72.8 % (feedstock). This is the first report on sterilization BIS production that uses glycerol as a sole carbon source, with significant cost reduction and the profitable use of a biodiesel byproduct.

Btu accounting: Showing results

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

Nelson, K.E.

1994-10-01

In the preceding article in this series last month, the author showed how to calculate the energy consumed to make a pound of product. To realize a payoff, however, the results must be presented in graphs or tables that clearly display what has happened. They must call attention to plant performance and ultimately lead to more efficient use of energy. Energy-consumption reporting is particularly valuable when viewed over a period of time. The author recommend compiling data annually and maintaining a ten-year performance history. Four cases are considered: individual plant performance; site performance for sites having more than one plant;more » company performance, for companies having more than one site; and performance based on product, for identical or similar products made at different plants or sites. Of these, individual plant performance is inherently the most useful. It also serves as the best basis for site, company and product performance reports. A key element in energy accounting is the relating of all energy consumption to a common basis. As developed last month in Part 1 in this series, the author chose Btu[sub meth] (i.e., Btu of methane equivalent, expressed as its higher heating value) for this purpose. It represents the amount of methane that would be needed to replace (in the case of fuels) or generate (in the case of steam and power) the energy being used.« less

Quality Attribute Techniques Framework

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chiam, Yin Kia; Zhu, Liming; Staples, Mark

The quality of software is achieved during its development. Development teams use various techniques to investigate, evaluate and control potential quality problems in their systems. These “Quality Attribute Techniques” target specific product qualities such as safety or security. This paper proposes a framework to capture important characteristics of these techniques. The framework is intended to support process tailoring, by facilitating the selection of techniques for inclusion into process models that target specific product qualities. We use risk management as a theory to accommodate techniques for many product qualities and lifecycle phases. Safety techniques have motivated the framework, and safety and performance techniques have been used to evaluate the framework. The evaluation demonstrates the ability of quality risk management to cover the development lifecycle and to accommodate two different product qualities. We identify advantages and limitations of the framework, and discuss future research on the framework.

Dairy Cows Productivity and Socio-Economic Profile of Dairy Smallholder’s Communities in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Widyobroto, B. P.; Rochijan; Noviandi, C. T.; Astuti, A.

2018-02-01

The objective of this field questionnaire survey was to describe the dairy cow productivity and socio-economic profile of dairy cattle farmers in Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta smallholder farming communities which have been targeted dairy development policy. The study was conducted on 190 Friesian Holstein (FH) cows maintained under smallholder’s management system in Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta, Indonesia. A total of 83 farmers were randomly selected and interviewed with structured questionnaire to assess the socio-economic dairy farmer and productivity performance of dairy cows. The number of dairy productivity performance within the normal. Shortages as well as high cost of feed, occurrence of disease, scarce information about feeding and high medicament cost were the main constraints which might have contributed considerably to delayed age at first service, late age at first calving, long calving interval, short lactation length and low milk production. Therefore, strategies designed to solve the existing problem should be important by involving all stakeholders in the formulation and implementation of improvement strategiesor dairy development policy was being implemented and necessary respect to environmental factors affecting agricultural activities such as a constraint on land use and access to water resources.

Ergonomics and workplace design: application of Ergo-UAS System in Fiat Group Automobiles.

PubMed

Vitello, M; Galante, L G; Capoccia, M; Caragnano, G

2012-01-01

Since 2008 Fiat Group Automobiles has introduced Ergo-UAS system for the balancing of production lines and to detect ergonomic issues. Ergo-UAS system integrates 2 specific methods: MTM-UAS for time measurement and EAWS as ergonomic method to evaluate biomechanical effort for each workstation. Fiat is using a software system to manage time evaluation and ergo characterization of production cycle (UAS) to perform line balancing and obtain allowance factor in all Italian car manufacturing plant. For new car models, starting from New Panda, FGA is applying Ergo-UAS for workplace design since the earliest phase of product development. This means that workplace design is based on information about new product, new layout, new work organization and is performed by a multidisciplinary team (Work Place Integration Team), focusing on several aspects of product and process: safety, quality and productivity. This allows to find and solve ergonomic threats before the start of production, by means of a strict cooperation between product development, engineering and design, manufacturing. Three examples of workstation design are presented in which application of Ergo-UAS was determinant to find out initial excessive levels of biomechanical load and helped the process designer to improve the workstations and define limits of acceptability. Technical activities (on product or on process), or organizational changes, that have been implemented in order to solve the problems are presented. A comparison between "before" and "new" ergonomic scores necessary to bring workstations in acceptable conditions were made.

Design, performance, and economics of 50-kW and 500-kW vertical axis wind turbines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schienbein, L. A.; Malcolm, D. J.

1983-11-01

A review of the development and performance of the DAF Indal 50-kW vertical axis Darrieus wind turbine shows that a high level of technical development and reliability has been achieved. Features of the drive train, braking and control systems are discussed and performance details are presented. Details are also presented of a 500-kW VAWT that is currently in production. A discussion of the economics of both the 50-kW and 500-kW VAWTs is included, showing the effects of charge rate, installed cost, operating cost, performance, and efficiency.

Aerospace Engineering Systems and the Advanced Design Technologies Testbed Experience

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

VanDalsem, William R.; Livingston, Mary E.; Melton, John E.; Torres, Francisco J.; Stremel, Paul M.

1999-01-01

Continuous improvement of aerospace product development processes is a driving requirement across much of the aerospace community. As up to 90% of the cost of an aerospace product is committed during the first 10% of the development cycle, there is a strong emphasis on capturing, creating, and communicating better information (both requirements and performance) early in the product development process. The community has responded by pursuing the development of computer-based systems designed to enhance the decision-making capabilities of product development individuals and teams. Recently, the historical foci on sharing the geometrical representation and on configuration management are being augmented: 1) Physics-based analysis tools for filling the design space database; 2) Distributed computational resources to reduce response time and cost; 3) Web-based technologies to relieve machine-dependence; and 4) Artificial intelligence technologies to accelerate processes and reduce process variability. The Advanced Design Technologies Testbed (ADTT) activity at NASA Ames Research Center was initiated to study the strengths and weaknesses of the technologies supporting each of these trends, as well as the overall impact of the combination of these trends on a product development event. Lessons learned and recommendations for future activities are reported.

Benchmarking in pathology: development of a benchmarking complexity unit and associated key performance indicators.

PubMed

Neil, Amanda; Pfeffer, Sally; Burnett, Leslie

2013-01-01

This paper details the development of a new type of pathology laboratory productivity unit, the benchmarking complexity unit (BCU). The BCU provides a comparative index of laboratory efficiency, regardless of test mix. It also enables estimation of a measure of how much complex pathology a laboratory performs, and the identification of peer organisations for the purposes of comparison and benchmarking. The BCU is based on the theory that wage rates reflect productivity at the margin. A weighting factor for the ratio of medical to technical staff time was dynamically calculated based on actual participant site data. Given this weighting, a complexity value for each test, at each site, was calculated. The median complexity value (number of BCUs) for that test across all participating sites was taken as its complexity value for the Benchmarking in Pathology Program. The BCU allowed implementation of an unbiased comparison unit and test listing that was found to be a robust indicator of the relative complexity for each test. Employing the BCU data, a number of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) were developed, including three that address comparative organisational complexity, analytical depth and performance efficiency, respectively. Peer groups were also established using the BCU combined with simple organisational and environmental metrics. The BCU has enabled productivity statistics to be compared between organisations. The BCU corrects for differences in test mix and workload complexity of different organisations and also allows for objective stratification into peer groups.

Nutritional programming of reproductive development in heifers

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Developmental programming is the biological process by which environmental factors influence the development of the organs and tissues in the body. There are two areas of developmental programming being investigated with applicability to beef production systems to improve performance of replacement...

Rubidium frequency standard test program for NAVSTAR GPS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koide, F.; Dederich, D. J.

1978-01-01

Test data of the RFS Program in the Production phase and computer automation are presented, as an essential element in the evaluation of the RFS performance in a simulated spacecraft environment. Typical production test data will be discussed for stabilities from 1 to 100,000 seconds averaging time and simulated time error accumulation test. Also, design considerations in developing the RFS test systems for the acceptance test in production are discussed.

Manufacturing Cost Levelization Model – A User’s Guide

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

Morrow, William R.; Shehabi, Arman; Smith, Sarah Josephine

The Manufacturing Cost Levelization Model is a cost-performance techno-economic model that estimates total large-scale manufacturing costs for necessary to produce a given product. It is designed to provide production cost estimates for technology researchers to help guide technology research and development towards an eventual cost-effective product. The model presented in this user’s guide is generic and can be tailored to the manufacturing of any product, including the generation of electricity (as a product). This flexibility, however, requires the user to develop the processes and process efficiencies that represents a full-scale manufacturing facility. The generic model is comprised of several modulesmore » that estimate variable costs (material, labor, and operating), fixed costs (capital & maintenance), financing structures (debt and equity financing), and tax implications (taxable income after equipment and building depreciation, debt interest payments, and expenses) of a notional manufacturing plant. A cash-flow method is used to estimate a selling price necessary for the manufacturing plant to recover its total cost of production. A levelized unit sales price ($ per unit of product) is determined by dividing the net-present value of the manufacturing plant’s expenses ($) by the net present value of its product output. A user defined production schedule drives the cash-flow method that determines the levelized unit price. In addition, an analyst can increase the levelized unit price to include a gross profit margin to estimate a product sales price. This model allows an analyst to understand the effect that any input variables could have on the cost of manufacturing a product. In addition, the tool is able to perform sensitivity analysis, which can be used to identify the key variables and assumptions that have the greatest influence on the levelized costs. This component is intended to help technology researchers focus their research attention on tasks that offer the greatest opportunities for cost reduction early in the research and development stages of technology invention.« less

Optimal performance of single-column chromatography and simulated moving bed processes for the separation of optical isomers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Medi, Bijan; Kazi, Monzure-Khoda; Amanullah, Mohammad

2013-06-01

Chromatography has been established as the method of choice for the separation and purification of optically pure drugs which has a market size of about 250 billion USD. Single column chromatography (SCC) is commonly used in the development and testing phase of drug development while multi-column Simulated Moving Bed (SMB) chromatography is more suitable for large scale production due to its continuous nature. In this study, optimal performance of SCC and SMB processes for the separation of optical isomers under linear and overloaded separation conditions has been investigated. The performance indicators, namely productivity and desorbent requirement have been compared under geometric similarity for the separation of a mixture of guaifenesin, and Tröger's base enantiomers. SCC process has been analyzed under equilibrium assumption i.e., assuming infinite column efficiency, and zero dispersion, and its optimal performance parameters are compared with the optimal prediction of an SMB process by triangle theory. Simulation results obtained using actual experimental data indicate that SCC may compete with SMB in terms of productivity depending on the molecules to be separated. Besides, insights into the process performances in terms of degree of freedom and relationship between the optimal operating point and solubility limit of the optical isomers have been ascertained. This investigation enables appropriate selection of single or multi-column chromatographic processes based on column packing properties and isotherm parameters.

Virtual Factory Framework for Supporting Production Planning and Control.

PubMed

Kibira, Deogratias; Shao, Guodong

2017-01-01

Developing optimal production plans for smart manufacturing systems is challenging because shop floor events change dynamically. A virtual factory incorporating engineering tools, simulation, and optimization generates and communicates performance data to guide wise decision making for different control levels. This paper describes such a platform specifically for production planning. We also discuss verification and validation of the constituent models. A case study of a machine shop is used to demonstrate data generation for production planning in a virtual factory.

Ergonomics and design: its principles applied in the industry.

PubMed

Tavares, Ademario Santos; Silva, Francisco Nilson da

2012-01-01

Industrial Design encompasses both product development and optimization of production process. In this sense, Ergonomics plays a fundamental role, because its principles, methods and techniques can help operators to carry out their tasks most successfully. A case study carried out in an industry shows that the interaction among Design, Production Engineering and Materials Engineering departments may improve some aspects concerned security, comfort, efficiency and performance. In this process, Ergonomics had shown to be of essential importance to strategic decision making to the improvement of production section.

Manufacturing methods of a composite cell case for a Ni-Cd battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauer, J. L.

1979-01-01

Basic manufacturing method refinements for using graphite epoxy material for a nickel cadmium battery cell case were performed to demonstrate production feasibility. The various facets of production scale-up, i.e., process and tooling development, together with material and process control, were integrated into a comprehensive manufacturing process that assures production reproducibility and product uniformity. Test results substantiate that a battery cell case produced from graphite epoxy pre-impregnated material, utilizing the internal pressure bag fabrication method, is feasible.

Evaluation of a solar intermittent refrigeration system for ice production operating with ammonia/lithium nitrate

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

Rivera, W.; Moreno-Quintanar, G.; Best, R.

2011-01-15

A novel solar intermittent refrigeration system for ice production developed in the Centro de Investigacion en Energia of the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico is presented. The system operates with the ammonia/lithium nitrate mixture. The system developed has a nominal capacity of 8 kg of ice/day. It consists of a cylindrical parabolic collector acting as generator-absorber. Evaporator temperatures as low as -11 C were obtained for several hours with solar coefficients of performance up to 0.08. It was found that the coefficient of performance increases with the increment of solar radiation and the solution concentration. A dependency of the coefficientmore » of performance was not founded against the cooling water temperature. Also it was found that the maximum operating pressure increases meanwhile the generation temperature decreases with an increase of the solution concentration. (author)« less

Liquefaction and Storage of In-Situ Oxygen on the Surface of Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hauser, Daniel M.; Johnson, Wesley L.; Sutherlin, Steven G.

2016-01-01

The In-Situ production of propellants for Martian and Lunar missions has been heavily discussed since the mid 1990's. One portion of the production of the propellants is the liquefaction, storage, and delivery of the propellants to the stage tanks. Two key technology development efforts are required: large refrigeration systems (cryocoolers) to perform the liquefaction and high performance insulation within a soft vacuum environment. Several different concepts of operation may be employed to liquefy the propellants based on how and where these two technologies are implemented. The concepts that were investigated include: using an accumulator tank to store the propellant until it is needed, liquefying in the flow stream going into the tank, and liquefying in the flight propellant tank itself. The different concept of operations were studied to assess the mass and power impacts of each concept. Additionally, the trade between insulation performance and cryocooler mass was performed to give performance targets for soft vacuum insulation development. It was found that liquefying within the flight propellant tank itself adds the least mass and power requirements to the mission.

Solar Access to Public Capital (SAPC) Working Group: Best Practices in PV System Installation; Version 1.0, March 2015; Period of Performance, October 2014 - September 2015

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

Doyle, C.; Truitt, A.; Inda, D.

The following Photovoltaics Installation Best Practices Guide is one of several work products developed by the Solar Access to Public Capital (SAPC) working group, which works to open capital market investment. SAPC membership includes over 450 leading solar developers, financiers and capital managers, law firms, rating agencies, accounting and engineering firms, and other stakeholders engaged in solar asset deployment. SAPC activities are directed toward foundational elements necessary to pool project cash flows into tradable securities: standardization of power purchase and lease contracts for residential and commercial end customers; development of performance and credit data sets to facilitate investor due diligencemore » activities; comprehension of risk perceived by rating agencies; and the development of best practice guides for PV system installation and operations and maintenance (O&M) in order to encourage high-quality system deployment and operation that may improve lifetime project performance and energy production. This PV Installation Best Practices Guide was developed through the SAPC Installation Best Practices subcommittee, a subgroup of SAPC comprised of a wide array of solar industry leaders in numerous fields of practice. The guide was developed over roughly one year and eight months of direct engagement by the subcommittee and two working group comment periods.« less

ALICE HLT Run 2 performance overview.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krzewicki, Mikolaj; Lindenstruth, Volker; ALICE Collaboration

2017-10-01

For the LHC Run 2 the ALICE HLT architecture was consolidated to comply with the upgraded ALICE detector readout technology. The software framework was optimized and extended to cope with the increased data load. Online calibration of the TPC using online tracking capabilities of the ALICE HLT was deployed. Offline calibration code was adapted to run both online and offline and the HLT framework was extended to support that. The performance of this schema is important for Run 3 related developments. An additional data transport approach was developed using the ZeroMQ library, forming at the same time a test bed for the new data flow model of the O2 system, where further development of this concept is ongoing. This messaging technology was used to implement the calibration feedback loop augmenting the existing, graph oriented HLT transport framework. Utilising the online reconstruction of many detectors, a new asynchronous monitoring scheme was developed to allow real-time monitoring of the physics performance of the ALICE detector, on top of the new messaging scheme for both internal and external communication. Spare computing resources comprising the production and development clusters are run as a tier-2 GRID site using an OpenStack-based setup. The development cluster is running continuously, the production cluster contributes resources opportunistically during periods of LHC inactivity.

Commercialization of veterinary viral vaccines.

PubMed

Flore, P H

2004-12-01

If vaccines are to reliably prevent disease, they must be developed, produced and quality-controlled according to very strict regulations and procedures. Veterinary viral vaccine registrations are governed by different rules in different countries, but these rules all emphasize that the quality of the raw materials--the cells, eggs, animals or plants that are used in production--need to be carefully controlled. The veterinary vaccine business is also very cost-conscious. Emphasis over the last 5-10 years has therefore been to develop culture systems that minimize labor and sterility problems and thus provide for reliable and cost-effective production. Implementing these often more complex systems in a production environment takes considerable effort, first in scale-up trials and further down the line in convincing production personnel to change their familiar system for something new and possibly untried. To complete scale-up trials successfully, it is absolutely necessary to understand the biochemistry of the cells and the influence of the virus on the cells under scale-up and later production conditions. Once a viral product can be produced on a large scale, it is imperative that the quality of the end-product is controlled in an intelligent way. One needs to know whether the end-product performs in the animal as was intended during its conception in the research and development department. The development of the appropriate tests to demonstrate this plays an important role in the successful development of a vaccine.

IN13B-1660: Analytics and Visualization Pipelines for Big Data on the NASA Earth Exchange (NEX) and OpenNEX

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chaudhary, Aashish; Votava, Petr; Nemani, Ramakrishna R.; Michaelis, Andrew; Kotfila, Chris

2016-01-01

We are developing capabilities for an integrated petabyte-scale Earth science collaborative analysis and visualization environment. The ultimate goal is to deploy this environment within the NASA Earth Exchange (NEX) and OpenNEX in order to enhance existing science data production pipelines in both high-performance computing (HPC) and cloud environments. Bridging of HPC and cloud is a fairly new concept under active research and this system significantly enhances the ability of the scientific community to accelerate analysis and visualization of Earth science data from NASA missions, model outputs and other sources. We have developed a web-based system that seamlessly interfaces with both high-performance computing (HPC) and cloud environments, providing tools that enable science teams to develop and deploy large-scale analysis, visualization and QA pipelines of both the production process and the data products, and enable sharing results with the community. Our project is developed in several stages each addressing separate challenge - workflow integration, parallel execution in either cloud or HPC environments and big-data analytics or visualization. This work benefits a number of existing and upcoming projects supported by NEX, such as the Web Enabled Landsat Data (WELD), where we are developing a new QA pipeline for the 25PB system.

Analytics and Visualization Pipelines for Big ­Data on the NASA Earth Exchange (NEX) and OpenNEX

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chaudhary, A.; Votava, P.; Nemani, R. R.; Michaelis, A.; Kotfila, C.

2016-12-01

We are developing capabilities for an integrated petabyte-scale Earth science collaborative analysis and visualization environment. The ultimate goal is to deploy this environment within the NASA Earth Exchange (NEX) and OpenNEX in order to enhance existing science data production pipelines in both high-performance computing (HPC) and cloud environments. Bridging of HPC and cloud is a fairly new concept under active research and this system significantly enhances the ability of the scientific community to accelerate analysis and visualization of Earth science data from NASA missions, model outputs and other sources. We have developed a web-based system that seamlessly interfaces with both high-performance computing (HPC) and cloud environments, providing tools that enable science teams to develop and deploy large-scale analysis, visualization and QA pipelines of both the production process and the data products, and enable sharing results with the community. Our project is developed in several stages each addressing separate challenge - workflow integration, parallel execution in either cloud or HPC environments and big-data analytics or visualization. This work benefits a number of existing and upcoming projects supported by NEX, such as the Web Enabled Landsat Data (WELD), where we are developing a new QA pipeline for the 25PB system.

Use of the cytosensor microphysiometer to predict results of a 21-day cumulative irritation patch test in humans.

PubMed

Landin, Wendell E; Mun, Greg C; Nims, Raymond W; Harbell, John W

2007-09-01

The cytosensor microphysiometer (mu phi) was investigated as a rapid, relatively inexpensive test to predict performance of skin cleansing wipes on the human 21-day cumulative irritation patch test (21CIPT). It indirectly measures metabolic rate changes in L929 cells as a function of test article dose, by measuring the acidification rate in a low-buffer medium. The dose producing a 50% reduction in metabolic rate (MRD50), relative to the baseline rate, is used as a measure of toxicity. The acute toxicity of the mu phi assay can be compared to the chronic toxicity of the 21CIPT, which is based largely on the exposure of test agents to the epidermal cells, resulting in damage and penetration of the stratum corneum leading to cell toxicity. Two series of surfactant-based cleansing wipe products were tested via the mu phi assay and 21CIPT. The first series, consisting of 20 products, was used to determine a prediction model. The second series of 38 products consisted of routine product development formulas or marketed products. Comparing the results from both tests, samples with an MRD50 greater than 50 mg/ml provided a 21CIPT score consistent with a product that performs satisfactorily in the market. When the MRD50 was greater than 78 mg/ml, the 21CIPT score was usually zero. The mu phi may be more sensitive than the 21CIPT for ranking minimally irritating materials. The mu phi assay is useful as a screen for predicting the performance of a wet wipes formula on the 21CIPT, and concurrently reduces the use of animals for safety testing in a product development program for cleansing wipes.

JV Task 120 - Coal Ash Resources Research Consortium Research

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

Debra Pflughoeft-Hassett; Loreal Heebink; David Hassett

2009-03-28

The Coal Ash Resources Research Consortium{reg_sign} (CARRC{reg_sign}, pronounced 'cars') is the core coal combustion product (CCP) research group at the Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC). CARRC focuses on performing fundamental and applied scientific and engineering research emphasizing the environmentally safe, economical use of CCPs. CARRC member organizations, which include utilities and marketers, are key to developing industry-driven research in the area of CCP utilization and ensuring its successful application. The U.S. Department of Energy is a partner in CARRC through the EERC Jointly Sponsored Research Program, which provides matching funds for industrial member contributions and facilitates an increased levelmore » of effort in CARRC. CARRC tasks were designed to provide information on CCP performance, including environmental performance, engineering performance, favorable economics, and improved life cycle of products and projects. CARRC technical research tasks are developed based on member input and prioritization. CARRC special projects are developed with members and nonmembers to provide similar information and to support activities, including the assembly and interpretation of data, support for standards development and technology transfer, and facilitating product development and testing. CARRC activities from 2007 to 2009 included a range of research tasks, with primary work performed in laboratory tasks developed to answer specific questions or evaluate important fundamental properties of CCPs. The tasks were included in four categories: (1) Environmental Evaluations of CCPs; (2) Evaluation of Impacts on CCPs from Emission Controls; (3) Construction and Product-Related Activities; and (4) Technology Transfer and Maintenance Tasks. All tasks are designed to work toward achieving the CARRC overall goal and supporting objectives. The various tasks are coordinated in order to provide broad and useful technical data for CARRC members. Special projects provide an opportunity for non-CARRC members to sponsor specific research or technology transfer consistent with CARRC goals. This report covers CARRC activities from January 2007 through March 2009. These activities have been reported in CARRC Annual Reports and in member meetings over the past 2 years. CARRC continues to work with industry and various government agencies with its research, development, demonstration, and promotional activities nearing completion at the time of submission of this report. CARRC expects to continue its service to the coal ash industry in 2009 and beyond to work toward the common goal of advancing coal ash utilization by solving CCP-related technical issues and promoting the environmentally safe, technically sound, and economically viable management of these complex and changing materials.« less

Tryptophan oxidation catabolite, N-formylkynurenine, in photo degraded cell culture medium results in reduced cell culture performance.

PubMed

McElearney, Kyle; Ali, Amr; Gilbert, Alan; Kshirsagar, Rashmi; Zang, Li

2016-01-01

Chemically defined media have been widely used in the biopharmaceutical industry to enhance cell culture productivities and ensure process robustness. These media, which are quite complex, often contain a mixture of many components such as vitamins, amino acids, metals and other chemicals. Some of these components are known to be sensitive to various stress factors including photodegradation. Previous work has shown that small changes in impurity concentrations induced by these potential stresses can have a large impact on the cell culture process including growth and product quality attributes. Furthermore, it has been shown to be difficult to detect these modifications analytically due to the complexity of the cell culture media and the trace level of the degradant products. Here, we describe work performed to identify the specific chemical(s) in photodegraded medium that affect cell culture performance. First, we developed a model system capable of detecting changes in cell culture performance. Second, we used these data and applied an LC-MS analytical technique to characterize the cell culture media and identify degradant products which affect cell culture performance. Riboflavin limitation and N-formylkynurenine (NFK), a tryptophan oxidation catabolite, were identified as chemicals which results in a reduction in cell culture performance. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers.

12 CFR 7.5004 - Sale of excess electronic capacity and by-products.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... because a bank engages in batch processing of banking transactions or because a bank must have capacity to... bank's needs for banking purposes include: (1) Data processing services; (2) Production and..., records, or media (such as electronic images) developed by the bank for or during the performance of its...

12 CFR 7.5004 - Sale of excess electronic capacity and by-products.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... because a bank engages in batch processing of banking transactions or because a bank must have capacity to... bank's needs for banking purposes include: (1) Data processing services; (2) Production and..., records, or media (such as electronic images) developed by the bank for or during the performance of its...

12 CFR 7.5004 - Sale of excess electronic capacity and by-products.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... because a bank engages in batch processing of banking transactions or because a bank must have capacity to... bank's needs for banking purposes include: (1) Data processing services; (2) Production and..., records, or media (such as electronic images) developed by the bank for or during the performance of its...

12 CFR 7.5004 - Sale of excess electronic capacity and by-products.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... because a bank engages in batch processing of banking transactions or because a bank must have capacity to... bank's needs for banking purposes include: (1) Data processing services; (2) Production and..., records, or media (such as electronic images) developed by the bank for or during the performance of its...

CONTROL OF MICROBIAL CONTAMINANTS AND DISINFECTION BY-PRODUCTS IN DRINKING WATER: COST AND PERFORMANCE

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) is in the process of developing a sophisticated regulatory strategy in an attempt to balance the risks associated with disinfectants and disinfection by-products (D/DBP) in drinking water. A major aspect of this strategy is the...

Criterion-Referenced Item Banking in Electronics: Appendix G. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gorth, William Phillip; Swaminathan, Hariharan

This is one of the outcomes of the work of the Massachusetts Evaluation Service Center for Occupational Education (ESCOE). After an overview of the Performance Test Development Project, a summary of the major products and byproducts is presented. The major products are: (1) a set of clearly defined, well-structured, and consistent behavioral…

Development of a Pancake-Making Method for a Batter-Based Product

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Cake and pancake are major batter-based products made with soft wheat flour. A standardized baking method for high-ratio cake has been widely used for evaluating the cake-baking performance of soft wheat flour. Chlorinated flour is used to make high-ratio cake, and the cake formula contains relative...

Evaluating Student-Teacher Linkage Data in Teacher Incentive Fund (TIF) Sites: Acquisition, Verification, and System Development. The Harvesting Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Watson, Jeffery; Witham, Peter; St. Louis, Timothy

2010-01-01

The U.S. Department of Education Teacher Incentive Fund (TIF) seeks to transform education compensation systems so that principal and teacher performance (measured through classroom productivity measures) connects to compensation. Classroom-level productivity measures require robust student-teacher linkage data. Organizations such as the…

Is Bigger Better? Customer Base Expansion through Word-of-Mouth Reputation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rob, Rafael; Fishman, Arthur

2005-01-01

A model of gradual reputation formation through a process of continuous investment in product quality is developed. We assume that the ability to produce high-quality products requires continuous investment and that as a consequence of informational frictions, such as search costs, information about firms' past performance diffuses only gradually…

Efficient Provision of Employment Service Outputs: A Production Frontier Analysis.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cavin, Edward S.; Stafford, Frank P.

1985-01-01

This article develops a production frontier model for the Employment Service and assesses the relative efficiency of the 51 State Employment Security Agencies in attaining program outcomes close to that frontier. This approach stands in contrast to such established practices as comparing programs to their own previous performance. (Author/CT)

Hydration and chemical ingredients in sport drinks: food safety in the European context.

PubMed

Urdampilleta, Aritz; Gómez-Zorita, Saioa; Soriano, José M; Martínez-Sanz, José M; Medina, Sonia; Gil-Izquierdo, Angel

2015-05-01

Before, during and after physical activity, hydration is a limiting factor in athletic performance. Therefore, adequate hydration provides benefits for health and performance of athletes. Besides, hydration is associated to the intake of carbohydrates, protein, sodium, caffeine and other substances by different dietary aids, during the training and/or competition by athletes. These requirements have led to the development of different products by the food industry, to cover the nutritional needs of athletes. Currently in the European context, the legal framework for the development of products, substances and health claims concerning to sport products is incomplete and scarce. Under these conditions, there are many products with different ingredients out of European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) control where claims are wrong due to no robust scientific evidence and it can be dangerous for the health. Further scientific evidence should be constructed by new clinical trials in order to assist to the Experts Commitees at EFSA for obtaining robust scientific opinions concerning to the functional foods and the individual ingredients for sport population. Copyright AULA MEDICA EDICIONES 2014. Published by AULA MEDICA. All rights reserved.

Quantum chemistry in environmental pesticide risk assessment.

PubMed

Villaverde, Juan J; López-Goti, Carmen; Alcamí, Manuel; Lamsabhi, Al Mokhtar; Alonso-Prados, José L; Sandín-España, Pilar

2017-11-01

The scientific community and regulatory bodies worldwide, currently promote the development of non-experimental tests that produce reliable data for pesticide risk assessment. The use of standard quantum chemistry methods could allow the development of tools to perform a first screening of compounds to be considered for the experimental studies, improving the risk assessment. This fact results in a better distribution of resources and in better planning, allowing a more exhaustive study of the pesticides and their metabolic products. The current paper explores the potential of quantum chemistry in modelling toxicity and environmental behaviour of pesticides and their by-products by using electronic descriptors obtained computationally. Quantum chemistry has potential to estimate the physico-chemical properties of pesticides, including certain chemical reaction mechanisms and their degradation pathways, allowing modelling of the environmental behaviour of both pesticides and their by-products. In this sense, theoretical methods can contribute to performing a more focused risk assessment of pesticides used in the market, and may lead to higher quality and safer agricultural products. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Kinetic model-based feed-forward controlled fed-batch fermentation of Lactobacillus rhamnosus for the production of lactic acid from Arabic date juice.

PubMed

Choi, Minsung; Al-Zahrani, Saeed M; Lee, Sang Yup

2014-06-01

Arabic date is overproduced in Arabic countries such as Saudi Arabia and Iraq and is mostly composed of sugars (70-80 wt%). Here we developed a fed-batch fermentation process by using a kinetic model for the efficient production of lactic acid to a high concentration from Arabic date juice. First, a kinetic model of Lactobacillus rhamnosus grown on date juice in batch fermentation was constructed in EXCEL so that the estimation of parameters and simulation of the model can be easily performed. Then, several fed-batch fermentations were conducted by employing different feeding strategies including pulsed feeding, exponential feeding, and modified exponential feeding. Based on the results of fed-batch fermentations, the kinetic model for fed-batch fermentation was also developed. This new model was used to perform feed-forward controlled fed-batch fermentation, which resulted in the production of 171.79 g l(-1) of lactic acid with the productivity and yield of 1.58 and 0.87 g l(-1) h(-1), respectively.

Factors that determine the optimum dose for sub-20nm resist systems: DUV, EUV, and e-beam options

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Preil, Moshe

2012-03-01

As EUV and e-beam direct write (EBDW) technologies move closer to insertion into pilot production, questions regarding cost effectiveness take on increasing importance. One of the most critical questions is determining the optimum dose which balances the requirements for cost-effective throughput vs. imaging performance. To date most of the dose requirements have been dictated by the hardware side of the industry. The exposure tool manufacturers have a vested interest in specifying the fastest resists possible in order to maximize the throughput even if it comes at the expense of optimum resist performance. This is especially true for both EUV and EBDW where source power is severely limited. We will explore the cost-benefit tradeoffs which drive the equipment side of the industry, and show how these considerations lead to the current throughput and dose requirements for volume production tools. We will then show how the resulting low doses may lead to shot noise problems and a resulting penalty in resist performance. By comparison to the history of 248 nm DUV resist development we will illustrate how setting unrealistic initial targets for resist dose may lead to unacceptable tradeoffs in resist performance and subsequently long delays in the development of production worthy resists.

Evaluating the Environmental Performance of Wood-Based Biofuels

Treesearch

Bruce Lippke; Richard Bergman; Adam Taylor; Maureen E. Puettmann

2012-01-01

The nonprofit Consortium for Research on Renewable Industrial Materials (CORRIM) has been developing comprehensive environmental performance information on wood building materials consistent with life-cycle standards (http://www.corrim.org/). The articles published in this Special Issue of the Forest Products Journal extend the research by the...

Development of a gas chromatography method for the determination of isotretinoin and its degradation products in pharmaceuticals.

PubMed

Lima, Eliana Martins; Diniz, Danielle G Almeida; Antoniosi-Filho, Nelson R

2005-07-15

This paper describes the development of a gas chromatography (GC) method used for the assay of isotretinoin in its isolated form and in pharmaceutical formulations. Isotretinoin soft and hard gelatin capsules were prepared with various excipients. The performance of the proposed gas chromatography method was compared to that of traditional high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems for this substance, and the GC parameters were established based on several preliminary tests, including thermal analysis of isotretinoin. Results showed that gas chromatography-flame ionization detector (GC-FID) exhibited a separation efficiency superior to that of HPLC, particularly for separating isotretinoin degradation products. This method was proven to be effectively applicable to stability evaluation assays of isotretinoin and isotretinoin based pharmaceuticals.

Recombination Catalysts for Hypersonic Fuels

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chinitz, W.

1998-01-01

The goal of commercially-viable access to space will require technologies that reduce propulsion system weight and complexity, while extracting maximum energy from the products of combustion. This work is directed toward developing effective nozzle recombination catalysts for the supersonic and hypersonic aeropropulsion engines used to provide such access to space. Effective nozzle recombination will significantly reduce rk=le length (hence, propulsion system weight) and reduce fuel requirements, further decreasing the vehicle's gross lift-off weight. Two such catalysts have been identified in this work, barium and antimony compounds, by developing chemical kinetic reaction mechanisms for these materials and determining the engine performance enhancement for a typical flight trajectory. Significant performance improvements are indicated, using only 2% (mole or mass) of these compounds in the combustor product gas.

Latest development in the synthesis of ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA): a critical review

PubMed Central

Tonin, Fabio

2018-01-01

Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a pharmaceutical ingredient widely used in clinics. As bile acid it solubilizes cholesterol gallstones and improves the liver function in case of cholestatic diseases. UDCA can be obtained from cholic acid (CA), which is the most abundant and least expensive bile acid available. The now available chemical routes for the obtainment of UDCA yield about 30% of final product. For these syntheses several protection and deprotection steps requiring toxic and dangerous reagents have to be performed, leading to the production of a series of waste products. In many cases the cholic acid itself first needs to be prepared from its taurinated and glycilated derivatives in the bile, thus adding to the complexity and multitude of steps involved of the synthetic process. For these reasons, several studies have been performed towards the development of microbial transformations or chemoenzymatic procedures for the synthesis of UDCA starting from CA or chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA). This promising approach led several research groups to focus their attention on the development of biotransformations with non-pathogenic, easy-to-manage microorganisms, and their enzymes. In particular, the enzymatic reactions involved are selective hydrolysis, epimerization of the hydroxy functions (by oxidation and subsequent reduction) and the specific hydroxylation and dehydroxylation of suitable positions in the steroid rings. In this minireview, we critically analyze the state of the art of the production of UDCA by several chemical, chemoenzymatic and enzymatic routes reported, highlighting the bottlenecks of each production step. Particular attention is placed on the precursors availability as well as the substrate loading in the process. Potential new routes and recent developments are discussed, in particular on the employment of flow-reactors. The latter technology allows to develop processes with shorter reaction times and lower costs for the chemical and enzymatic reactions involved. PMID:29520309

Gas-cooled reactor programs. High-temperature gas-cooled reactor technology development program. Annual progress report, December 31, 1983

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

Kasten, P.R.; Rittenhouse, P.L.; Bartine, D.E.

1984-06-01

ORNL continues to make significant contributions to the national program. In the HTR fuels area, we are providing detailed statistical information on the fission product retention performance of irradiated fuel. Our studies are also providing basic data on the mechanical, physical, and chemical behavior of HTR materials, including metals, ceramics, graphite, and concrete. The ORNL has an important role in the development of improved HTR graphites and in the specification of criteria that need to be met by commercial products. We are also developing improved reactor physics design methods. Our work in component development and testing centers in the Componentmore » Flow Test Loop (CFTL), which is being used to evaluate the performance of the HTR core support structure. Other work includes experimental evaluation of the shielding effectiveness of the lower portions of an HTR core. This evaluation is being performed at the ORNL Tower Shielding Facility. Researchers at ORNL are developing welding techniques for attaching steam generator tubing to the tubesheets and are testing ceramic pads on which the core posts rest. They are also performing extensive testing of aggregate materials obtained from potential HTR site areas for possible use in prestressed concrete reactor vessels. During the past year we continued to serve as a peer reviewer of small modular reactor designs being developed by GA and GE with balance-of-plant layouts being developed by Bechtel Group, Inc. We have also evaluated the national need for developing HTRs with emphasis on the longer term applications of the HTRs to fossil conversion processes.« less

The effect of sudden server breakdown on the performance of a disassembly line

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Udomsawat, Gun; Gupta, Surendra M.

2005-11-01

Product and material recovery relies on the disassembly process to separate target components or materials from the end-of-life (EOL) products. Disassembly line is especially effective when products in large quantity are disassembled. Unlike an assembly line, a disassembly line is more complex and is subjected to numerous uncertainties including stochastic and multi-level arrivals of component demands, stochastic arrival times for EOL products, and process interruption due to equipment failure. These factors seriously impair the control mechanism in the disassembly line. A common production control mechanism is the traditional push system (TPS). TPS responds to the aforementioned complications by carrying substantial amounts of inventories. An alternative control mechanism is a newly developed multi-kanban pull system (MKS) that relies on dynamic routing of kanbans, which tends to minimize the system's inventories while maintaining demand serviceability. In this paper we explore the impact of sudden breakdown of server on the performance of a disassembly line. We compare the overall performances of the TPS and MKS by considering two scenarios. We present the solution procedure and results for these cases.

Preschool children's ability to visually represent relations.

PubMed

Koerber, Susanne; Sodian, Beate

2008-05-01

The developmental origins of mapping temporal relations onto space was investigated in N = 122 3- to 5-year-old children and adults. Spontaneous production and comprehension were investigated. Production was investigated in two conditions: an iconic condition (three-dimensional objects depicting the events or objects to be represented) and an abstract condition (plain discs). Consistent with findings by Tversky, Kugelmass and Winter (1991), 5-year-olds performed on an adult-like level. Developmental progress was observed between the ages of 3 and 4 years, with comprehension preceding production. Consistent with DeLoache's findings (2000), 4-year-olds' performance was better in abstract than in iconic conditions, indicating that dual representational demands may have affected task performance in the iconic condition. In sum, abilities to map temporal relations onto spatial relations appear to develop spontaneously, even before children have experience with conventional notational systems.

Specialized protein products in broiler chicken nutrition: A review.

PubMed

Beski, Sleman S M; Swick, Robert A; Iji, Paul A

2015-06-01

In poultry nutrition, most attention is given to protein products, due to the importance of protein as a major constituent of the biologically active compounds in the body. It also assists in the synthesis of body tissue, for that renovation and growth of the body. Furthermore, protein exists in form of enzymes and hormones which play important roles in the physiology of any living organism. Broilers have high dietary protein requirements, so identification of the optimum protein concentration in broiler diets, for either maximizing broiler performance or profit, requires more knowledge about birds' requirements for protein and amino acids and their effects on the birds' growth performance and development. It also requires knowledge about the protein sources available that can be used in poultry diets. The broad aim of this review is to highlight the importance of some of the available high-quality specialized protein products of both animal and plant origins which can be explored for feeding broiler chickens. Minimization of the concentration of anti-nutritional factors (ANFs) and supplementation with immunologically active compounds are the main focus of gut health-promoting broiler diets. These diet characteristics are influenced by feed ingredient composition and feed processing. The general hypothesis is that these protein products are highly digestible and devoid of or contain less ANFs. Feeding these products to broiler chicks, especially at an earlier age, can assist early gut development and digestive physiology, and improve broiler growth performance and immunity.

Plant breeding and genetics

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The ultimate goal of plant breeding is to develop improved crops. Improvements can be made in crop productivity, crop processing and marketing, and/or consumer quality. The process of developing an improved cultivar begins with intercrossing lines with high performance for the traits of interest, th...

Automotive Stirling Engine Development Program. RESD summary report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1984-01-01

The design of reference Stirling engine system as well as the engine auxiliaries and controls is described. Manufacturing costs in production quantity are also presented. Engine system performance predictions are discussed and vehicle integration is developed, along with projected fuel economy levels.

Human resources management for a hospital pharmacy department.

PubMed

Chase, P A

1989-06-01

The concepts of human resources management (HRM) are presented, and the application of HRM concepts to a hospital pharmacy department is described. Low salaries and poor working conditions had precipitated a mass exodus of pharmacists from a 650-bed, tertiary-care medical center. The newly hired director of pharmacy sought to rebuild the department by developing a three-stage HRM model consisting of needs forecasting, performance management, and advanced management systems. In the needs-forecasting stage, the strengths and weaknesses of departmental programs were determined through analysis of existing standards of practice, situational analysis, and financial analyses; the strengths and weaknesses of departmental employees were determined through the use of talent inventories, turnover analysis, analysis of time and leave records, reevaluation of the department's job classifications, performance and productivity evaluations, and productivity evaluations, and development of a philosophy of practice and mission statement. Needs and problems were addressed by examining each existing program and developing new policies and procedures, performance standards, quality assurance mechanisms, and productivity expectations. Personnel needs and problems were addressed by designing a system of differentiated career ladders, contracting with pharmacists for career moves, developing the skills of currently employed pharmacists, and implementing a succession planning model. The model has been in place for approximately three years and is beginning to yield the desired results. Application of HRM concepts to a hospital pharmacy department appears to have been successful in improving employee morale and in helping the department to meet goals of expanded and improved services.

Leukotriene B4 catabolism: quantitation of leukotriene B4 and its omega-oxidation products by reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography.

PubMed

Shak, S

1987-01-01

LTB4 and its omega-oxidation products may be rapidly, sensitively, and specifically quantitated by the methods of solid-phase extraction and reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), which are described in this chapter. Although other techniques, such as radioimmunoassay or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, may be utilized for quantitative analysis of the lipoxygenase products of arachidonic acid, only the technique of reversed-phase HPLC can quantitate as many as 10 metabolites in a single analysis, without prior derivatization. In this chapter, we also reviewed the chromatographic theory which we utilized in order to optimize reversed-phase HPLC analysis of LTB4 and its omega-oxidation products. With this information and a gradient HPLC system, it is possible for any investigator to develop a powerful assay for the potent inflammatory mediator, LTB4, or for any other lipoxygenase product of arachidonic acid.

Research and development of energy-efficient appliance motor-compressors. Volume IV. Production demonstration and field test

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

Middleton, M.G.; Sauber, R.S.

Two models of a high-efficiency compressor were manufactured in a pilot production run. These compressors were for low back-pressure applications. While based on a production compressor, there were many changes that required production process changes. Some changes were performed within our company and others were made by outside vendors. The compressors were used in top mount refrigerator-freezers and sold in normal distribution channels. Forty units were placed in residences for a one-year field test. Additional compressors were built so that a life test program could be performed. The results of the field test reveal a 27.0% improvement in energy consumptionmore » for the 18 ft/sup 3/ high-efficiency model and a 15.6% improvement in the 21 ft/sup 3/ improvement in the 21 ft/sup 3/ high-efficiency model as compared to the standard production unit.« less

Importance of Indigenous Breeds of Chicken for Rural Economy and Their Improvements for Higher Production Performance

PubMed Central

Padhi, Mahendra Kumar

2016-01-01

Indigenous/native breeds of chickens are playing an important role in rural economies in most of the developing and underdeveloped countries. They play a major role for the rural poor and marginalised section of the people with respect to their subsidiary income and also provide them with nutritious chicken egg and meat for their own consumption. Performance of native fowl can be improved by change in husbandry, feeding, and better health cover. However, genetic improvement may be made either through selection and crossbreeding or by utilisation of both selection and crossbreeding. Improvement through selection may be time consuming but the improvement will be permanent. Through crossbreeding improvement may be faster but research has to aim for the production of native-type birds with higher production potential. In the present review efforts have been made to present the importance of native fowl to rural economy and their improvement for higher production performance. PMID:27144053

Simulation and testing of pyramid and barrel vault skylights

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

McGowan, A.G.; Desjarlais, A.O.; Wright, J.L.

1998-10-01

The thermal performance of fenestration in commercial buildings can have a significant effect on building loads--yet there is little information on the performance of these products. With this in mind, ASHRAE TC 4.5, Fenestration, commissioned a research project involving test and simulation of commercial fenestration systems. The objectives of ASHRAE Research Project 877 were: to evaluate the thermal performance (U-factors) of commonly used commercial glazed roof and wall assemblies; to obtain a better fundamental understanding of the heat transfer processes that occur in these specialty fenestration products; to develop correlations for natural-convection heat transfer in complex glazing cavities; to developmore » a methodology for evaluating complex fenestration products, suitable for inclusion in ASHRAE Standard 142P (ASHRAE 1996); and to generate U-factors for common commercial fenestration products, suitable for inclusion in the ASHRAE Handbook--Fundamentals. This paper describes testing and simulation of pyramid and barrel vault skylight specimens and provides guidelines for modeling these systems based on the validated results.« less

A multiphase mixture model for substrate concentration distribution characteristics and photo-hydrogen production performance of the entrapped-cell photobioreactor.

PubMed

Guo, Cheng-Long; Cao, Hong-Xia; Pei, Hong-Shan; Guo, Fei-Qiang; Liu, Da-Meng

2015-04-01

A multiphase mixture model was developed for revealing the interaction mechanism between biochemical reactions and transfer processes in the entrapped-cell photobioreactor packed with gel granules containing Rhodopseudomonas palustris CQK 01. The effects of difference operation parameters, including operation temperature, influent medium pH value and porosity of packed bed, on substrate concentration distribution characteristics and photo-hydrogen production performance were investigated. The results showed that the model predictions were in good agreement with the experimental data reported. Moreover, the operation temperature of 30 °C and the influent medium pH value of 7 were the most suitable conditions for photo-hydrogen production by biodegrading substrate. In addition, the lower porosity of packed bed was beneficial to enhance photo-hydrogen production performance owing to the improvement on the amount of substrate transferred into gel granules caused by the increased specific area for substrate transfer in the elemental volume. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Engineering microbes for isoprene production.

PubMed

Ye, Lidan; Lv, Xiaomei; Yu, Hongwei

2016-11-01

Isoprene is facing a growing global market due to its wide industrial applications. Current industrial production of isoprene is almost entirely petroleum-based, which is influenced by the shrinking C5 supply, while the natural emission of isoprene is predominantly contributed by plants. To bridge the need gap, a highly efficient fermentation-based process for isoprene production might be a suitable and sustainable solution, and extensive research works have been performed to achieve this goal. Here we review the accomplishments in this field by summarizing the history and prospects of microbial isoprene production. The natural producers and biosynthesis pathways of isoprene, the key enzyme isoprene synthase and the metabolic engineering strategies adopted for developing isoprene-producing microorganisms are introduced. In particular, strategies employed for achieving engineered strains with improved performance indices are discussed based on the published papers and patents. The perspectives on further performance improvements and potential future strategies are presented as well. Copyright © 2016 International Metabolic Engineering Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Developing an inventor support service which performs early stage market and manufacturing evaluations. Final report

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

Not Available

1991-10-01

American businesses are learning the difficult high cost lesson of ignoring production and market factors (producibility, unit product cost (UPC), marketability, etc) during the engineering design phase of product development. Studies have shown that the Japanese spend three times as long as Americans in the design feasibility and decision process of new product introductions and one third the amount of time in the implementation of those products. There is a 20 to 1 cost benefit on effort applied in the design phase versus the production phase of the product life cycle. The number one goal of this project was tomore » establish an organization that has, as one of its purposes, the providing of services responsive to the needs of independent inventors. The number two goal was to demonstrate the value of providing marketing and manufacturing counsel at an early stage in the product development process. The first study goal was met by providing the materials and information necessary to establish an evaluation team and an organization to handle such evaluations. The second study goal was met by demonstrating the impact of early market analysis and manufacturing considerations on product design and therefore on the description of the invention for four different inventions. These inventions were selected at various stages of development. Regardless of stage of development, the marketing and manufacturing reviews resulted in significant changes in design and/or market positioning.« less

Developing an inventor support service which performs early stage market and manufacturing evaluations. [Final Report

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

Not Available

1991-10-01

American businesses are learning the difficult high cost lesson of ignoring production and market factors (producibility, unit product cost (UPC), marketability, etc) during the engineering design phase of product development. Studies have shown that the Japanese spend three times as long as Americans in the design feasibility and decision process of new product introductions and one third the amount of time in the implementation of those products. There is a 20 to 1 cost benefit on effort applied in the design phase versus the production phase of the product life cycle. The number one goal of this project was tomore » establish an organization that has, as one of its purposes, the providing of services responsive to the needs of independent inventors. The number two goal was to demonstrate the value of providing marketing and manufacturing counsel at an early stage in the product development process. The first study goal was met by providing the materials and information necessary to establish an evaluation team and an organization to handle such evaluations. The second study goal was met by demonstrating the impact of early market analysis and manufacturing considerations on product design and therefore on the description of the invention for four different inventions. These inventions were selected at various stages of development. Regardless of stage of development, the marketing and manufacturing reviews resulted in significant changes in design and/or market positioning.« less

Recent advances and state-of-the-art strategies in strain and process engineering for biobutanol production by Clostridium acetobutylicum.

PubMed

Xue, Chuang; Zhao, Jingbo; Chen, Lijie; Yang, Shang-Tian; Bai, Fengwu

Butanol as an advanced biofuel has gained great attention due to its environmental benefits and superior properties compared to ethanol. However, the cost of biobutanol production via conventional acetone-butanol-ethanol (ABE) fermentation by Clostridium acetobutylicum is not economically competitive, which has hampered its industrial application. The strain performance and downstream process greatly impact the economics of biobutanol production. Although various engineered strains with carefully orchestrated metabolic and sporulation-specific pathways have been developed, none of them is ideal for industrial biobutanol production. For further strain improvement, it is necessary to develop advanced genome editing tools and a deep understanding of cellular functioning of genes in metabolic and regulatory pathways. Processes with integrated product recovery can increase fermentation productivity by continuously removing inhibitory products while generating butanol (ABE) in a concentrated solution. In this review, we provide an overview of recent advances in C. acetobutylicum strain engineering and process development focusing on in situ product recovery. With deep understanding of systematic cellular bioinformatics, the exploration of state-of-the-art genome editing tools such as CRISPR-Cas for targeted gene knock-out and knock-in would play a vital role in Clostridium cell engineering for biobutanol production. Developing advanced hybrid separation processes for in situ butanol recovery, which will be discussed with a detailed comparison of advantages and disadvantages of various recovery techniques, is also imperative to the economical development of biobutanol. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

How Bell Labs creates star performers.

PubMed

Kelley, R; Caplan, J

1993-01-01

How can managers increase the productivity of professionals when most of their work goes on inside their heads? Robert Kelley and Janet Caplan believe that defining the difference between star performers and average workers is the answer. Many managers assume that top performers are just smarter. But the authors' research at the Bell Laboratories Switching Systems Business Unit (SSBU) has revealed that the real difference between stars and average workers is not IQ but the ways top performers do their jobs. Their study has led to a training program based on the strategies of star performers. The SSBU training program, known as the Productivity Enhancement Group (PEG), uses an expert model to demystify productivity. The star engineers selected to develop the expert model identified and ranked nine work strategies, such as taking initiative, networking, and self-management. Middle performers were also asked what makes for top-quality work, but their definitions and ranking of the strategies differed significantly from those of the top performers. Taking initiative, for example, meant something very different to an average worker than it did to a star. And for the middle performers, the ability to give good presentations was a core strategy, while it was peripheral for the top engineers. Once PEG got underway, respected engineers ran the training sessions, which included case studies, work-related exercises, and frank discussion. The benefits of the program were striking: participants and managers reported substantial productivity increases in both star and average performers. The PEG program may not be a blueprint for other companies, but its message is clear: managers must focus on people, not on technology, to increase productivity in the knowledge economy.

Consolidated bioprocessing strategy for ethanol production from Jerusalem artichoke tubers by Kluyveromyces marxianus under high gravity conditions.

PubMed

Yuan, W J; Chang, B L; Ren, J G; Liu, J P; Bai, F W; Li, Y Y

2012-01-01

Developing an innovative process for ethanol fermentation from Jerusalem artichoke tubers under very high gravity (VHG) conditions. A consolidated bioprocessing (CBP) strategy that integrated inulinase production, saccharification of inulin contained in Jerusalem artichoke tubers and ethanol production from sugars released from inulin by the enzyme was developed with the inulinase-producing yeast Kluyveromyces marxianus Y179 and fed-batch operation. The impact of inoculum age, aeration, the supplementation of pectinase and nutrients on the ethanol fermentation performance of the CBP system was studied. Although inulinase activities increased with the extension of the seed incubation time, its contribution to ethanol production was negligible because vigorously growing yeast cells harvested earlier carried out ethanol fermentation more efficiently. Thus, the overnight incubation that has been practised in ethanol production from starch-based feedstocks is recommended. Aeration facilitated the fermentation process, but compromised ethanol yield because of the negative Crabtree effect of the species, and increases the risk of contamination under industrial conditions. Therefore, nonaeration conditions are preferred for the CBP system. Pectinase supplementation reduced viscosity of the fermentation broth and improved ethanol production performance, particularly under high gravity conditions, but the enzyme cost should be carefully balanced. Medium optimization was performed, and ethanol concentration as high as 94·2 g l(-1) was achieved when 0·15 g l(-1) K(2) HPO(4) was supplemented, which presents a significant progress in ethanol production from Jerusalem artichoke tubers. A CBP system using K. marxianus is suitable for efficient ethanol production from Jerusalem artichoke tubers under VHG conditions. Jerusalem artichoke tubers are an alternative to grain-based feedstocks for ethanol production. The high ethanol concentration achieved using K. marxianus with the CBP system not only saves energy consumption for ethanol distillation, but also significantly reduces the amount of waste distillage discharged from the distillation system. © 2011 The Authors. Journal of Applied Microbiology © 2011 The Society for Applied Microbiology.

Low-Cost Detection of Thin Film Stress during Fabrication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nabors, Sammy A.

2015-01-01

NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center has developed a simple, cost-effective optical method for thin film stress measurements during growth and/or subsequent annealing processes. Stress arising in thin film fabrication presents production challenges for electronic devices, sensors, and optical coatings; it can lead to substrate distortion and deformation, impacting the performance of thin film products. NASA's technique measures in-situ stress using a simple, noncontact fiber optic probe in the thin film vacuum deposition chamber. This enables real-time monitoring of stress during the fabrication process and allows for efficient control of deposition process parameters. By modifying process parameters in real time during fabrication, thin film stress can be optimized or controlled, improving thin film product performance.

Office of Operations R&D

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-04-30

The Office of Operations Research and Development (R&D) produces technology and tools to improve transportation system productivity, efficiency, and performance by proactively anticipating congestion and managing traffic.

Maintaining safety and high performance on shiftwork

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Monk, T. H.; Folkard, S.; Wedderburn, A. I.

1996-01-01

This review of the shiftwork area focuses on aspects of safety and productivity. It discusses the situations in which shiftworker performance is critical, the types of problem that can develop and the reasons why shiftworker performance can be impaired. The review ends with a discnssion of the various advantages and disadvantages of several shift rotation systems, and of other possible solutions to the problem.

LIDAR and acoustics applications to ocean productivity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Collins, D. J.

1982-01-01

The requirements for the submersible, the instrumentation necessary to perform these measurements, and the optical and acoustical technology required to develop the ocean color scanner instrumentation are described. The development of a second generation ocean color scanner produced the need for coincident in situ scientific measurements which examine the primary productivity of the upper ocean on time and space scales which are large compared to the environmental scales. The vertical and horizontal variability of the biota, including the relationship between chlorophyll and primary productivity, the productivity of zooplankton, and the dynamic interaction between phytoplankton and zooplankton, and between these populations and the physical environment are investigated. A towed submersible will be constructed which accommodates both an underwater LIDAR instrument and a multifrequency sonar.

Development of the Upgraded DC Brush Gear Motor for Spacebus Platforms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Berning, Robert H.; Viout, Olivier

2010-01-01

The obsolescence of materials and processes used in the manufacture of traditional DC brush gear motors has necessitated the development of an upgraded DC brush gear motor (UBGM). The current traditional DC brush gear motor (BGM) design was evaluated using Six-Sigma process to identify potential design and production process improvements. The development effort resulted in a qualified UBGM design which improved manufacturability and reduced production costs. Using Six-Sigma processes and incorporating lessons learned during the development process also improved motor performance for UBGM making it a more viable option for future use as a deployment mechanism in space flight applications.

Modernization of software quality assurance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bhaumik, Gokul

1988-01-01

The customers satisfaction depends not only on functional performance, it also depends on the quality characteristics of the software products. An examination of this quality aspect of software products will provide a clear, well defined framework for quality assurance functions, which improve the life-cycle activities of software development. Software developers must be aware of the following aspects which have been expressed by many quality experts: quality cannot be added on; the level of quality built into a program is a function of the quality attributes employed during the development process; and finally, quality must be managed. These concepts have guided our development of the following definition for a Software Quality Assurance function: Software Quality Assurance is a formal, planned approach of actions designed to evaluate the degree of an identifiable set of quality attributes present in all software systems and their products. This paper is an explanation of how this definition was developed and how it is used.

V&V Of CFD Modeling Of The Argonne Bubble Experiment: FY15 Summary Report

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

Hoyt, Nathaniel C.; Wardle, Kent E.; Bailey, James L.

2015-09-30

In support of the development of accelerator-driven production of the fission product Mo 99, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations of an electron-beam irradiated, experimental-scale bubble chamber have been conducted in order to aid in interpretation of existing experimental results, provide additional insights into the physical phenomena, and develop predictive thermal hydraulic capabilities that can be applied to full-scale target solution vessels. Toward that end, a custom hybrid Eulerian-Eulerian-Lagrangian multiphase solver was developed, and simulations have been performed on high-resolution meshes. Good agreement between experiments and simulations has been achieved, especially with respect to the prediction of the maximum temperature ofmore » the uranyl sulfate solution in the experimental vessel. These positive results suggest that the simulation methodology that has been developed will prove to be suitable to assist in the development of full-scale production hardware.« less

Dairy farming on permanent grassland: can it keep up?

PubMed

Kellermann, M; Salhofer, K

2014-10-01

Based on an extensive data set for southern Germany, we compared the productive performance of dairy farms that operate solely on permanent grassland and dairy farms using fodder crops from arable land. We allowed for heterogeneous production technologies and identified more intensive and extensive production systems for both types of farms, whereby we based our notion of intensive versus extensive dairy production on differences in stocking density and milk yield per cow and year. To be able to compare the productivity levels and productivity developments of the various groups of farms, we developed a group- and chain-linked multilateral productivity index. We also analyzed how technical change, technical efficiency change, and a scale change effect contribute to productivity growth between the years 2000 and 2008. Our results revealed that permanent grassland farms can generally keep up with fodder-crop farms, even in an intensive production setting. However, extensively operating farms, especially those on permanent grassland, significantly lag behind in productivity and productivity change and run the risk of losing ground. Copyright © 2014 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

3D printing technology speeds development.

PubMed

McGowan, James

2013-10-01

James McGowan, R&D product designer for Monodraught, a specialist in 'natural ventilation, natural daylight, and natural cooling systems', discusses the development of Cool-phase, the company's latest innovative application of phase change material (PCM) as a thermal energy store used to actively ventilate and cool buildings. As he explains, when the company decided to re-design an already successful product to further enhance its performance, the use of 3D modelling greatly speeded up prototyping, and helped the design process progress considerably more quickly.

Advanced Materials and Component Development for Lithium-ion Cells for NASA Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reid, Concha M.

2012-01-01

Human missions to Near Earth Objects, such as asteroids, planets, moons, libration points, and orbiting structures, will require safe, high specific energy, high energy density batteries to provide new or extended capabilities than are possible with today s state-of-the-art aerospace batteries. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is developing advanced High Energy and Ultra High Energy lithium-ion cells to address these needs. In order to meet the performance goals, advanced, high-performing materials are required to provide improved performance at the component-level that contributes to performance at the integrated cell level. This paper will provide an update on the performance of experimental materials through the completion of two years of development. The progress of materials development, remaining challenges, and an outlook for the future of these materials in near term cell products will be discussed.

[Changes in the forms of industrial production and their effects on workers' health].

PubMed

Fernandes, Rita de Cássia Pereira; Assunção, Ada Avila; Carvalho, Fernando Martins

2010-06-01

This study aimed to identify determinants of health in workers of plastic industries. Production organization, machinery from maintenance and productive areas, and workers' characteristics of 14 plastic industries from Greater Salvador, Bahia State, Brazil, were described. Data were collected about development policy of each company; marketing, operational procedures; production and quality requirements, and formal rules of work organization. High strain management techniques for production time reduction have been implemented. The increase of work rhythm, reduction of break time, and a situation of high cognitive demand impose to workers anomalous body positioning for performing tasks that imply repetitive movements. Physical and psychosocial demands (repetitive work, lower control of the worker on his own tasks, time pressure and job dissatisfaction) compose a complex of conditions adverse to workers' health. Changes in production management, personnel and business impose new strains into the development of task by the workers and bringing in new risk factors to workers' health.

Metabolizable protein supply alters pregnancy and subsequent retention rate during heifer development while grazing dormant winter forage

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Type of heifer development system can have major impact on the future productivity and retention rate of the cowherd. Therefore, the objective of this experiment was to determine growth, reproductive performance, retention rate, and economic efficiency of heifer’s developed in a range raised (with ...

Quality Assurance in Software Development: An Exploratory Investigation in Software Project Failures and Business Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ichu, Emmanuel A.

2010-01-01

Software quality is perhaps one of the most sought-after attributes in product development, however; this goal is unattained. Problem factors in software development and how these have affected the maintainability of the delivered software systems requires a thorough investigation. It was, therefore, very important to understand software…

Development and testing of the Shenandoah collector

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kinoshita, G. S.

1981-01-01

The test and development of the 7-meter Shenandoah parabolic dish collector incorporating an FEK-244 film reflective surface and cavity receiver are described. Four prototypes tested in the midtemperature Solar System Test Facility indicate, with changes incorporated from these development tests, that the improvements should lead to predicted performance levels in the production collectors.

Maximizing Potential: A School-Based Conception of Psychosocial Development

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cross, Tracy L.; Cross, Jennifer Riedl

2017-01-01

Optimal talent development can only occur when high ability students are willing to take opportunities for growth in a domain and are able to persist when presented with challenges that accompany performance or production at the highest levels. This paper proposes the use of Erikson's theory of psychosocial development to provide a framework…

Systems Pharmacology-Based Discovery of Natural Products for Precision Oncology Through Targeting Cancer Mutated Genes.

PubMed

Fang, J; Cai, C; Wang, Q; Lin, P; Zhao, Z; Cheng, F

2017-03-01

Massive cancer genomics data have facilitated the rapid revolution of a novel oncology drug discovery paradigm through targeting clinically relevant driver genes or mutations for the development of precision oncology. Natural products with polypharmacological profiles have been demonstrated as promising agents for the development of novel cancer therapies. In this study, we developed an integrated systems pharmacology framework that facilitated identifying potential natural products that target mutated genes across 15 cancer types or subtypes in the realm of precision medicine. High performance was achieved for our systems pharmacology framework. In case studies, we computationally identified novel anticancer indications for several US Food and Drug Administration-approved or clinically investigational natural products (e.g., resveratrol, quercetin, genistein, and fisetin) through targeting significantly mutated genes in multiple cancer types. In summary, this study provides a powerful tool for the development of molecularly targeted cancer therapies through targeting the clinically actionable alterations by exploiting the systems pharmacology of natural products. © 2017 The Authors CPT: Pharmacometrics & Systems Pharmacology published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics.

RICOR Cryocoolers for HOT IR detectors from development to optimization for industrialized production

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levin, Eli; Katz, Amiram; Bar Haim, Zvi; Nachman, Ilan; Riabzev, Sergey; Gover, Dan; Segal, Victor; Filis, Avishai

2017-05-01

The modern needs of the electro-optical market for small low-power and light-weight IR systems are impelling research and development of High Operating Temperature (HOT) IR detectors, requiring development of dedicated "HOT" cryocoolers. The development of cryocoolers with emphasis on the "SWAP3" configuration means small size, low weight, improved performance, low power consumption and low price, in order to optimize IDDCA for future hand held thermal sights. This paper will present the development and the progress made with the new "HOT" cryocooler, including customer data after the evaluation process, performances achieved using a common cold finger, test results update on a large series of production coolers, life and qualification test update and acoustic noise reduction. All the above mentioned information relates to the FPA temperature range of 130 - 200K for various cryocooler models based on rotary and linear design concepts. The paper will also review the progress with the latest development activities implemented in the cryocoolers and the electronic control modules in order to improve reliability and minimize regulated power consumption.

The Relationship of Teacher Evaluation Scores Generated by a Process-Product Evaluation Instrument to Selected Variables.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tadlock, James; Nesbit, Lamar

The Jackson Municipal Separate School District, Mississippi, has instituted a mixed-criteria reduction-in-force procedure emphasizing classroom performance to a greater degree than seniority, certification, and staff development participation. The district evaluation process--measuring classroom teaching performance--generated data for the present…

Developing low-input, high-biomass, perennial cropping systems for advanced biofuels in the Intermountain West

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Lignocellulosic biomass studies are being conducted to evaluate perennial herbaceous feedstocks and to determine their field performance and adaptation potential for biomass production in the Intermountain West. Field performance of four biomass entries and four inputs are being evaluated over a lo...

The Two Faces of Sulfinates: Illustrating Umpolung Reactivity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tapia-Pineda, Adabelia; Perez-Arrieta, Carlos; Silva-Cuevas, Carolina; Paleo, Ehecatl; Lujan-Montelongo, J. Armando

2016-01-01

A simple, microscale experiment was developed with the aim of demonstrating the concept of umpolung in synthetic organic chemistry. Starting from a common alkyl sulfinate, students perform a polarity inversion by performing a Grignard-based sulfoxide synthesis and a Mannich-type formamide synthesis. The products are purified without chromatography…

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

Maloney, J.; Kiepper, A.F.; Simonetta, R.J.

The volume examines monitoring and reporting procedures applicable to performance and productivity. The managers of three transit systems of varying sizes discuss how productivity has been increased within their systems. The Pittsburgh discussion reviews a variety of capital projects and management improvement initiatives undertaken by Port Authority Transit, including development of maintenance manuals and an absenteeism reduction project. The Houston discussion describes how the property used a management study to identify needed organizational change and restructuring. The Ann Arbor discussion focuses on a set of service standards and performance indicators adopted to focus the management improvement process.

Wide Strip Casting Technology of Magnesium Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, W.-J.; Kim, J. J.; Kim, I. J.; Choo, D.

Extensive investigations relating to the production of high performance and low cost magnesium sheet by strip casting have been performed for the application to automotive parts and electronic devices. Research on magnesium sheet production technology started in 2004 by Research Institute of Industrial Science and Technology (RIST) with support of Pohang Iron and Steel Company (POSCO). POSCO has completed the world's first plant to manufacture magnesium coil. Another big project in order to develop wide strip casting technology for the automotive applications of magnesium sheets was started in succession.

Review of infrared technology in The Netherlands

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

de Jong, Arie N.

1993-11-01

The use of infrared sensors in the Netherlands is substantial. Users can be found in a variety of disciplines, military as well as civil. This need for IR sensors implied a long history on IR technology and development. The result was a large technological-capability allowing the realization of IR hardware: specialized measuring equipment, engineering development models, prototype and production sensors for different applications. These applications range from small size, local radiometry up to large space-borne imaging. Large scale production of IR sensors has been realized for army vehicles. IR sensors have been introduced now in all of the armed forces. Facilities have been built to test the performance of these sensors. Models have been developed to predict the performance of a new sensor. A great effort has been spent on atmospheric research, leading to knowledge upon atmospheric- and background limitations of IR sensors.

Crew transportation for the 1990s. I - Commercializing manned flight with today's propulsion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Staehle, Robert; French, J. R.

Two commercial space transport concepts that have been developed employing reusable production engines are discussed. A winged space transport (WST) launched from a Boeing 747 was sized to carry six people to low orbit. With no margin for performance growth, it is not favored for development. A vertical launch/landing space transport was designed with capabilities and propulsion similar to the WST, but launched from the ground. A small launch mass penalty is offset by improved performance margins and by eliminating carrier aircraft costs. The two-pilot plus five-passenger vehicle is designed for short-duration trips to low earth orbit, or for docking up to 10 d at an orbiting station. Market applications include space station crew rotation, equipment delivery and product return, short-duration experiments, satellite servicing, reconnaissance, and tourism. Profitable per-mission prices are projected at $10-15 million, with development costs approaching $400 million.

Rule-based optimization and multicriteria decision support for packaging a truck chassis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berger, Martin; Lindroth, Peter; Welke, Richard

2017-06-01

Trucks are highly individualized products where exchangeable parts are flexibly combined to suit different customer requirements, this leading to a great complexity in product development. Therefore, an optimization approach based on constraint programming is proposed for automatically packaging parts of a truck chassis by following packaging rules expressed as constraints. A multicriteria decision support system is developed where a database of truck layouts is computed, among which interactive navigation then can be performed. The work has been performed in cooperation with Volvo Group Trucks Technology (GTT), from which specific rules have been used. Several scenarios are described where the methods developed can be successfully applied and lead to less time-consuming manual work, fewer mistakes, and greater flexibility in configuring trucks. A numerical evaluation is also presented showing the efficiency and practical relevance of the methods, which are implemented in a software tool.

Systems study of transport aircraft incorporating advanced aluminum alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sakata, I. F.

1982-01-01

A study was performed to quantify the potential benefits of utilizing advanced aluminum alloys in commercial transport aircraft and to define the effort necessary to develop fully the alloys to a viable commercial production capability. The comprehensive investigation (1) established realistic advanced aluminum alloy property goals to maximize aircraft systems effectiveness (2) identified performance and economic benefits of incorporating the advanced alloy in future advanced technology commercial aircraft designs (3) provided a recommended plan for development and integration of the alloys into commercial aircraft production (4) provided an indication of the timing and investigation required by the metal producing industry to support the projected market and (5) evaluate application of advanced aluminum alloys to other aerospace and transit systems as a secondary objective. The results of the investigation provided a roadmap and identified key issues requiring attention in an advanced aluminum alloy and applications technology development program.

Fabrication of light water reactor tritium targets

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

Pilger, J.P.

1991-11-01

The mission of the Fabrication Development Task of the Tritium Target Development Project is: to produce a documented technology basis, including specifications and procedures for target rod fabrication; to demonstrate that light water tritium targets can be manufactured at a rate consistent with tritium production requirements; and to develop quality control methods to evaluate target rod components and assemblies, and establish correlations between evaluated characteristics and target rod performance. Many of the target rod components: cladding tubes, end caps, plenum springs, etc., have similar counterparts in LWR fuel rods. High production rate manufacture and inspection of these components has beenmore » adequately demonstrated by nuclear fuel rod manufacturers. This summary describes the more non-conventional manufacturing processes and inspection techniques developed to fabricate target rod components whose manufacturability at required production rates had not been previously demonstrated.« less

Quality by design case study: an integrated multivariate approach to drug product and process development.

PubMed

Huang, Jun; Kaul, Goldi; Cai, Chunsheng; Chatlapalli, Ramarao; Hernandez-Abad, Pedro; Ghosh, Krishnendu; Nagi, Arwinder

2009-12-01

To facilitate an in-depth process understanding, and offer opportunities for developing control strategies to ensure product quality, a combination of experimental design, optimization and multivariate techniques was integrated into the process development of a drug product. A process DOE was used to evaluate effects of the design factors on manufacturability and final product CQAs, and establish design space to ensure desired CQAs. Two types of analyses were performed to extract maximal information, DOE effect & response surface analysis and multivariate analysis (PCA and PLS). The DOE effect analysis was used to evaluate the interactions and effects of three design factors (water amount, wet massing time and lubrication time), on response variables (blend flow, compressibility and tablet dissolution). The design space was established by the combined use of DOE, optimization and multivariate analysis to ensure desired CQAs. Multivariate analysis of all variables from the DOE batches was conducted to study relationships between the variables and to evaluate the impact of material attributes/process parameters on manufacturability and final product CQAs. The integrated multivariate approach exemplifies application of QbD principles and tools to drug product and process development.

Long-Term Historical Rainfall-Runoff Modeling Using High-Resolution Satellite-based Precipitation Products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashouri, H.; Nguyen, P.; Thorstensen, A. R.; Hsu, K. L.; Sorooshian, S.

2014-12-01

This study evaluates the performance of a newly developed long-term high-resolution satellite-based precipitation products, named Precipitation Estimation from Remotely Sensed Information using Artificial Neural Network - Climate Data Record (PERSIANN-CDR), in hydrological modeling. PERSIANN-CDR estimations are biased corrected using GPCP monthly climatology data. PERSIANN-CDR provides daily rainfall estimates at 0.25° x 0.25° grid boxes for 1983-2014 (delayed present). This newly released product makes it feasible to model the streamflow over the past 30 years. Three test basins from the Distributed Hydrologic Model Intercomparison Project - Phase 2 (DMIP 2) are chosen. Comparing with other satellite products, the Version 7 TRMM Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA) product is used. Stage IV radar data is used as a reference data for evaluating the PERSIANN-CDR and TMPA precipitation data. All products are scaled to 0.25° and daily spatiotemporal resolution. The study is performed in two phases. In the first phase, the 2003-2011 period where all the products are available is chosen. Precipitation evaluation results, presented on Taylor Diagrams, show that TMPA and PERSIANN-CDR have close performances. The National Weather Service (NWS) Office of Hydrologic Development (OHD) Hydrology Laboratory-Research Distributed Hydrologic Model (HL-RDHM) is then forced with the PERSIANN-CDR and the TMPA precipitation products, as well as the stage IV radar data. USGS Streamflow observations at the outlet of the basins are used as the reference streamflow data. The results show that in general, in all the three DMIP 2 basins the simulated hydrographs forced with PERSIANN-CDR and TMPA show good agreement, as the statistical measures such as root mean square error, bias, and correlation coefficient are close. In addition, with respect to the streamflow peaks, PERSIANN-CDR shows better performance than Stage IV radar data in capturing the extreme streamflow magnitudes. Based on the results from the first phase of the study and given the fact that PERSIANN-CDR covers the 1983-2014, in the second phase of the study we model the streamflow for the period of 1983-2014. The results will be presented in the meeting.

Performance Stability of Silicone Oxide-Coated Plastic Parenteral Vials.

PubMed

Weikart, Christopher M; Pantano, Carlo G; Shallenberger, Jeff R

2017-01-01

A new packaging system was developed for parenteral pharmaceuticals that combines the best attributes of plastic and glass without their respective drawbacks. This technological advancement is based on the synergy between high-precision injection-molded plastics and plasma coating technology. The result is a shatter-resistant, optically clear, low-particulate, and chemically durable packaging system. The demand for this product is driven by the expanding market, regulatory constraints, and product recalls for injectable drugs and biologics packaged in traditional glass materials. It is shown that this new packaging system meets or exceeds the important performance characteristics of glass, especially in eliminating the glass delamination and breakage that has been observed in many products. The new packaging system is an engineered, multilayer, glass-coated plastic composite that provides a chemically stable contact surface and oxygen barrier performance that exceeds a 2 year shelf life requirement. Evaluation of the coating system characteristics and performance stability to chemical, temperature, and mechanical extremes are reported herein. LAY ABSTRACT: A new packaging system for parenteral pharmaceuticals was developed that combines the best attributes of plastic and glass without their respective drawbacks. This technological advancement is based on the synergy between high-precision injection-molded plastics and plasma coating technology. The result is a shatter-resistant, optically clear, low-particulate, and chemically durable packaging system. It is shown that this new packaging system meets or exceeds the important performance characteristics of glass, especially in eliminating the glass delamination and breakage that has been observed in many products. The new packaging system is an engineered, multilayer, glass-coated plastic composite that provides a chemically stable contact surface and oxygen barrier performance that exceeds a 2 year shelf life requirement. Evaluation of the coating system characteristics and performance stability to chemical, temperature, and mechanical extremes are reported herein. © PDA, Inc. 2017.

Non-allowed Pharmacologically Active Substances in Physical and Sexual Performance Enhancing Products

PubMed Central

Pellegrini, Manuela; Rotolo, Maria Concetta; Busardò, Francesco Paolo; Pacifici, Roberta; Pichini, Simona

2017-01-01

Background: Recently, a large amount of physical and sexual performance enhancing products have started to be freely sold mainly on internet web sites as dietary supplements. However, there a high suspicion that pharmacologically active substance, prohibited in these products, can be present to provide the expected effect. Methods: A simple and rapid systematic toxicological analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry has been applied after a liquid-liquid extraction at acidic, neutral and alkaline pH with chloroform-isopropanol (9:1 v/v). The assays were validated in the range from 10 mg to 250 mg/g products showing a good linearity for the calibration curves (r2 ≥0.99). Mean extraction recoveries of analytes from different products were always higher than 90% and intra-assay and inter-assay precision and accuracy were always better than 15%. Results: The developed method was applied to the analysis of products with a high percentage of sales in websites and smart and sexy shops. In twelve of eighty supplements, anabolic steroids, anti-estrogenic drugs, psychoactive substances and sildenafil and analogs were identified and quantified. Conclusion: Eventual health hazards caused by the hidden presence of pharmacologically active substances in physical and sexual performance enhancing products are reported. PMID:27799033

Development of sensor augmented robotic weld systems for aerospace propulsion system fabrication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jones, C. S.; Gangl, K. J.

1986-01-01

In order to meet stringent performance goals for power and reuseability, the Space Shuttle Main Engine was designed with many complex, difficult welded joints that provide maximum strength and minimum weight. To this end, the SSME requires 370 meters of welded joints. Automation of some welds has improved welding productivity significantly over manual welding. Application has previously been limited by accessibility constraints, requirements for complex process control, low production volumes, high part variability, and stringent quality requirements. Development of robots for welding in this application requires that a unique set of constraints be addressed. This paper shows how robotic welding can enhance production of aerospace components by addressing their specific requirements. A development program at the Marshall Space Flight Center combining industrial robots with state-of-the-art sensor systems and computer simulation is providing technology for the automation of welds in Space Shuttle Main Engine production.

HT/HP x-tree and downhole fiber optic connectors and their use on subsea intelligent wells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wright, Perry; Barlow, Stewart

2004-12-01

Offshore Oil and Gas R&D has been committed to improved reservoir performance through production monitoring. Technology improvements in these areas offer the greatest potential returns through increased knowledge of the reservoir, and the improvements in real-time production control that the technology and knowledge base can provide. One area of technology that supports this development is the growing application of fiber optic sensors for reservoir and production monitoring. These sensors cannot function in isolation, and need support in the form of fiber optic connection systems for x-tree penetrations. ODI have been developing products for fiber optic tree penetrations and down-hole wet connections for the last 4 years, working with Intelligent Wells Group at BP America Production Company in Houston. This paper discusses the application and reliability of fiber optic connectors, and reviews the development of the ODI I-CONN connection system and its application for vertical and horizontal x-trees, work-over systems and running tools, and down-hole systems.

Modeling design iteration in product design and development and its solution by a novel artificial bee colony algorithm.

PubMed

Chen, Tinggui; Xiao, Renbin

2014-01-01

Due to fierce market competition, how to improve product quality and reduce development cost determines the core competitiveness of enterprises. However, design iteration generally causes increases of product cost and delays of development time as well, so how to identify and model couplings among tasks in product design and development has become an important issue for enterprises to settle. In this paper, the shortcomings existing in WTM model are discussed and tearing approach as well as inner iteration method is used to complement the classic WTM model. In addition, the ABC algorithm is also introduced to find out the optimal decoupling schemes. In this paper, firstly, tearing approach and inner iteration method are analyzed for solving coupled sets. Secondly, a hybrid iteration model combining these two technologies is set up. Thirdly, a high-performance swarm intelligence algorithm, artificial bee colony, is adopted to realize problem-solving. Finally, an engineering design of a chemical processing system is given in order to verify its reasonability and effectiveness.

Biorefineries for the production of top building block chemicals and their derivatives.

PubMed

Choi, Sol; Song, Chan Woo; Shin, Jae Ho; Lee, Sang Yup

2015-03-01

Due to the growing concerns on the climate change and sustainability on petrochemical resources, DOE selected and announced the bio-based top 12 building blocks and discussed the needs for developing biorefinery technologies to replace the current petroleum based industry in 2004. Over the last 10 years after its announcement, many studies have been performed for the development of efficient technologies for the bio-based production of these chemicals and derivatives. Now, ten chemicals among these top 12 chemicals, excluding the l-aspartic acid and 3-hydroxybutyrolactone, have already been commercialized or are close to commercialization. In this paper, we review the current status of biorefinery development for the production of these platform chemicals and their derivatives. In addition, current technological advances on industrial strain development for the production of platform chemicals using micro-organisms will be covered in detail with case studies on succinic acid and 3-hydroxypropionic acid as examples. Copyright © 2015 International Metabolic Engineering Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Spinoff 2006

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2006-01-01

NASA seeks to create industry partnerships to develop technology that both applies to NASA mission needs and contributes to competitiveness in global markets. As part of NASA s mission, the Agency facilitates the transfer and commercialization of NASA-sponsored research and technology. These efforts not only support NASA, they enhance the quality of life here on Earth. While NASA does not manufacture, market or sell commercial products, many commercial products are derived from NASA technology. Many NASA originated technologies are adapted by private industry for use by consumers like you. Spinoff developments highlighted in this publication are based on information provided by individual and private industry users of NASA originated aerospace technology who acknowledge that such technology contributed wholly or in part to development of the product or process described. NASA cannot accept responsibility or liability for the misinterpretation or misrepresentation of the enclosed information provided by these third party users. Publication herein does not constitute NASA endorsement of the product or process, nor confirmation of manufacturers performance claims related to any particular spinoff development.

The cesiator - A device for cesium vapor control and impurity purge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rasor, N. S.; Desplat, J.-L.

A new type of liquid cesium reservoir that maintains a temperature-independent cesium pressure, continuously recirculates cesium vapor through the TFE (thermionic fuel element), and purges it of impurities is discussed. This device, the cesiator, is based on well-established gas-buffered heat pipe principles. The cesiator offers new TFE design options for fission product/impurity handling that eliminate the need for an intercell insulator seal and associated failure modes. Cesiator performance requirements are estimated based on data for expected release of fission products and their effect on TFE performance. The effect of design parameters on cesiator performance is described. Experimentation with an ethanol-metal mock-up revealed an unexpected but desirable mode of operation that autoregulates the pressure drop and flow of vapor in the external circuit and that has been incorporated in the reference design for phase II development. Experimental techniques for measuring the local temperature, pressure, and composition in a condensing vapor were successfully developed. A reference design for a TFE cesiator was defined for prototype design, development, and test.

Load Disaggregation Technologies: Real World and Laboratory Performance

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

Mayhorn, Ebony T.; Sullivan, Greg P.; Petersen, Joseph M.

Low cost interval metering and communication technology improvements over the past ten years have enabled the maturity of load disaggregation (or non-intrusive load monitoring) technologies to better estimate and report energy consumption of individual end-use loads. With the appropriate performance characteristics, these technologies have the potential to enable many utility and customer facing applications such as billing transparency, itemized demand and energy consumption, appliance diagnostics, commissioning, energy efficiency savings verification, load shape research, and demand response measurement. However, there has been much skepticism concerning the ability of load disaggregation products to accurately identify and estimate energy consumption of end-uses; whichmore » has hindered wide-spread market adoption. A contributing factor is that common test methods and metrics are not available to evaluate performance without having to perform large scale field demonstrations and pilots, which can be costly when developing such products. Without common and cost-effective methods of evaluation, more developed disaggregation technologies will continue to be slow to market and potential users will remain uncertain about their capabilities. This paper reviews recent field studies and laboratory tests of disaggregation technologies. Several factors are identified that are important to consider in test protocols, so that the results reflect real world performance. Potential metrics are examined to highlight their effectiveness in quantifying disaggregation performance. This analysis is then used to suggest performance metrics that are meaningful and of value to potential users and that will enable researchers/developers to identify beneficial ways to improve their technologies.« less

Early Evaluation of the VIIRS Calibration, Cloud Mask and Surface Reflectance Earth Data Records

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vermote, Eric; Justice, Chris; Csiszar, Ivan

2014-01-01

Surface reflectance is one of the key products fromVIIRS and as withMODIS, is used in developing several higherorder land products. The VIIRS Surface Reflectance (SR) Intermediate Product (IP) is based on the heritageMODIS Collection 5 product (Vermote, El Saleous, & Justice, 2002). The quality and character of surface reflectance depend on the accuracy of the VIIRS Cloud Mask (VCM), the aerosol algorithms and the adequate calibration of the sensor. The focus of this paper is the early evaluation of the VIIRS SR product in the context of the maturity of the operational processing system, the Interface Data Processing System (IDPS). After a brief introduction, the paper presents the calibration performance and the role of the surface reflectance in calibration monitoring. The analysis of the performance of the cloud mask with a focus on vegetation monitoring (no snow conditions) shows typical problems over bright surfaces and high elevation sites. Also discussed is the performance of the aerosol input used in the atmospheric correction and in particular the artifacts generated by the use of the Navy Aerosol Analysis and Prediction System. Early quantitative results of the performance of the SR product over the AERONET sites showthatwith the fewadjustments recommended, the accuracy iswithin the threshold specifications. The analysis of the adequacy of the SR product (Land PEATE adjusted version) in applications of societal benefits is then presented. We conclude with a set of recommendations to ensure consistency and continuity of the JPSS mission with the MODIS Land Climate Data Record.

Developing a confidence metric for the Landsat land surface temperature product

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laraby, Kelly G.; Schott, John R.; Raqueno, Nina

2016-05-01

Land Surface Temperature (LST) is an important Earth system data record that is useful to fields such as change detection, climate research, environmental monitoring, and smaller scale applications such as agriculture. Certain Earth-observing satellites can be used to derive this metric, and it would be extremely useful if such imagery could be used to develop a global product. Through the support of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the United States Geological Survey (USGS), a LST product for the Landsat series of satellites has been developed. Currently, it has been validated for scenes in North America, with plans to expand to a trusted global product. For ideal atmospheric conditions (e.g. stable atmosphere with no clouds nearby), the LST product underestimates the surface temperature by an average of 0.26 K. When clouds are directly above or near the pixel of interest, however, errors can extend to several Kelvin. As the product approaches public release, our major goal is to develop a quality metric that will provide the user with a per-pixel map of estimated LST errors. There are several sources of error that are involved in the LST calculation process, but performing standard error propagation is a difficult task due to the complexity of the atmospheric propagation component. To circumvent this difficulty, we propose to utilize the relationship between cloud proximity and the error seen in the LST process to help develop a quality metric. This method involves calculating the distance to the nearest cloud from a pixel of interest in a scene, and recording the LST error at that location. Performing this calculation for hundreds of scenes allows us to observe the average LST error for different ranges of distances to the nearest cloud. This paper describes this process in full, and presents results for a large set of Landsat scenes.

48 CFR 970.1504-1-7 - Fee base.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Development, or Environmental Management work to be performed. Special equipment purchases shall be addressed... represents the cost of the Production, Research and Development, or Environmental Management work to be... part of the estimated cost of capital equipment (other than special equipment) which the contractor...

Research and Development of High-performance Explosives

PubMed Central

Cornell, Rodger; Wrobel, Erik; Anderson, Paul E.

2016-01-01

Developmental testing of high explosives for military applications involves small-scale formulation, safety testing, and finally detonation performance tests to verify theoretical calculations. small-scale For newly developed formulations, the process begins with small-scale mixes, thermal testing, and impact and friction sensitivity. Only then do subsequent larger scale formulations proceed to detonation testing, which will be covered in this paper. Recent advances in characterization techniques have led to unparalleled precision in the characterization of early-time evolution of detonations. The new technique of photo-Doppler velocimetry (PDV) for the measurement of detonation pressure and velocity will be shared and compared with traditional fiber-optic detonation velocity and plate-dent calculation of detonation pressure. In particular, the role of aluminum in explosive formulations will be discussed. Recent developments led to the development of explosive formulations that result in reaction of aluminum very early in the detonation product expansion. This enhanced reaction leads to changes in the detonation velocity and pressure due to reaction of the aluminum with oxygen in the expanding gas products. PMID:26966969

An efficient matrix product operator representation of the quantum chemical Hamiltonian

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

Keller, Sebastian, E-mail: sebastian.keller@phys.chem.ethz.ch; Reiher, Markus, E-mail: markus.reiher@phys.chem.ethz.ch; Dolfi, Michele, E-mail: dolfim@phys.ethz.ch

We describe how to efficiently construct the quantum chemical Hamiltonian operator in matrix product form. We present its implementation as a density matrix renormalization group (DMRG) algorithm for quantum chemical applications. Existing implementations of DMRG for quantum chemistry are based on the traditional formulation of the method, which was developed from the point of view of Hilbert space decimation and attained higher performance compared to straightforward implementations of matrix product based DMRG. The latter variationally optimizes a class of ansatz states known as matrix product states, where operators are correspondingly represented as matrix product operators (MPOs). The MPO construction schememore » presented here eliminates the previous performance disadvantages while retaining the additional flexibility provided by a matrix product approach, for example, the specification of expectation values becomes an input parameter. In this way, MPOs for different symmetries — abelian and non-abelian — and different relativistic and non-relativistic models may be solved by an otherwise unmodified program.« less

A comparative study of programming languages for next-generation astrodynamics systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eichhorn, Helge; Cano, Juan Luis; McLean, Frazer; Anderl, Reiner

2018-03-01

Due to the computationally intensive nature of astrodynamics tasks, astrodynamicists have relied on compiled programming languages such as Fortran for the development of astrodynamics software. Interpreted languages such as Python, on the other hand, offer higher flexibility and development speed thereby increasing the productivity of the programmer. While interpreted languages are generally slower than compiled languages, recent developments such as just-in-time (JIT) compilers or transpilers have been able to close this speed gap significantly. Another important factor for the usefulness of a programming language is its wider ecosystem which consists of the available open-source packages and development tools such as integrated development environments or debuggers. This study compares three compiled languages and three interpreted languages, which were selected based on their popularity within the scientific programming community and technical merit. The three compiled candidate languages are Fortran, C++, and Java. Python, Matlab, and Julia were selected as the interpreted candidate languages. All six languages are assessed and compared to each other based on their features, performance, and ease-of-use through the implementation of idiomatic solutions to classical astrodynamics problems. We show that compiled languages still provide the best performance for astrodynamics applications, but JIT-compiled dynamic languages have reached a competitive level of speed and offer an attractive compromise between numerical performance and programmer productivity.

In vitro activity of chlorogenic acid against Aspergillus fumigatus biofilm and gliotoxin production.

PubMed

Kong, Jin-Liang; Luo, Jing; Li, Bing; Dong, Bi-Ying; Huang, Hong; Wang, Ke; Wu, Li-Hong; Chen, Yi-Qiang

2017-06-01

Aspergillus ( A .) fumigatus , one of the most common causes of life-threatening fungal infections in immunocompromised patients, shows resistance to antifungal agents as has a high propensity to forming a biofilm. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of chlorogenic acid (CRA) on A. fumigatus biofilm formation and integrity. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was performed to determine the inhibitory effects of CRA against A. fumigatus biofilm formation. Transmission electron microscopy was performed to investigate the ultrastructural changes of A. fumigatus biofilm after CRA exposure. High-performance liquid chromatography and reverse-transcription quantitative PCR were performed to determine the expression of gliotoxin production in biofilm culture. The results showed that CRA at sub-minimum inhibitory concentrations inhibited A. fumigatus biofilm formation. In addition, CRA could decreased the gliotoxin production in the biofilm culture supernatant through inhibiting the expression of master genes involved in gliotoxin biosynthesis. The present study provided useful information for the development of novel strategies to reduce the incidence of A. fumigatus biofilm-associated diseases.

Thin liquid/gas diffusion layers for high-efficiency hydrogen production from water splitting

DOE PAGES

Mo, Jingke; Retterer, Scott T.; Cullen, David A.; ...

2016-06-13

Liquid/gas diffusion layers (LGDLs) play a crucial role in electrochemical energy technology and hydrogen production, and are expected to simultaneously transport electrons, heat, and reactants/products with minimum voltage, current, thermal, interfacial, and fluidic losses. In addition, carbon materials, which are typically used in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), are unsuitable for PEM electrolyzer cells (PEMECs). In this study, a novel titanium thin LGDL with well-tunable pore morphologies was developed by employing nano-manufacturing and was applied in a standard PEMEC. The LGDL tests show significant performance improvements. The operating voltages required at a current density of 2.0 A/cm 2 weremore » as low as 1.69 V, and its efficiency reached a report high of up to 88%. The new thin and flat LGDL with well-tunable straight pores has been demonstrated to remarkably reduce the ohmic, interfacial and transport losses. In addition, well-tunable features, including pore size, pore shape, pore distribution, and thus porosity and permeability, will be very valuable for developing PEMEC models and for validation of its simulations with optimal and repeatable performance. The LGDL thickness reduction from greater than 350 μm of conventional LGDLs to 25 μm will greatly decrease the weight and volume of PEMEC stacks, and represents a new direction for future developments of low-cost PEMECs with high performance.« less

Reaction-to-fire testing and modeling for wood products

Treesearch

Mark A. Dietenberger; Robert H. White

2001-01-01

In this review we primarily discuss our use of the oxygen consumption calorimeter (ASTM E1354 for cone calorimeter and ISO9705 for room/corner tests) and fire growth modeling to evaluate treated wood products. With recent development towards performance-based building codes, new methodology requires engineering calculations of various fire growth scenarios. The initial...

Effects of panel density and mat moisture content on processing medium density fiberboard

Treesearch

Zhiyong Cai; James H. Muehl; Jerrold E. Winandy

2006-01-01

Development of a fundamental understanding of heat transfer and resin curing during hot- pressing will help to optimize the manufacturing process of medium density fiberboard (MDF) allowing increased productivity, improved product quality, and enhanced durability. Effect of mat moisture content (MC) and panel density on performance of MDF panels, heat transfer,...

Reassessing a Decade of Reform. Workforce Development and the Changing Economy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bailey, Thomas; Gribovskaya, Alexandra

Education reform in the 1980s and 1990s emerged from a preoccupation with productivity and economic performance. In the 1980s, the country's education system was blamed for slowing productivity growth and weakening international competitiveness. By the end of the 1990s, the economic context had changed dramatically; unemployment rates were at…

Simultaneous determination of the absolute configuration of twelve monosaccharide enantiomers from natural products in a single injection by UPLC-UV/MS method

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

In natural product chemistry, it is often crucial to determine sugar composition as well as the absolute configuration of each monosaccharide in glycosides. An ultra-performance liquid chromatography method using both photodiode array (PDA) and mass spectrometry detectors (UPLC-UV/MS) was developed....

Value-Added Models and the Measurement of Teacher Productivity. CALDER Working Paper No. 54

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harris, Douglas; Sass, Tim; Semykina, Anastasia

2010-01-01

Research on teacher productivity, and recently developed accountability systems for teachers, rely on value-added models to estimate the impact of teachers on student performance. The authors test many of the central assumptions required to derive value-added models from an underlying structural cumulative achievement model and reject nearly all…

Tongass National Forest timber demand: projections for 2015 to 2030

Treesearch

Jean M. Daniels; Michael D. Paruszkiewicz; Susan J. Alexander

2016-01-01

Projections of Alaska timber products output; the derived demand for logs, lumber, residues, and niche products; and timber harvest by owner were developed using a trend-based analysis. This is the fifth such analysis performed since 1990 to assist planners in meeting statutory requirements for estimating planning-cycle demand for timber from the Tongass National...

Quantitative separation of tetralin hydroperoxide from its decomposition products by high performance liquid chromatography

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Worstell, J. H.; Daniel, S. R.

1981-01-01

A method for the separation and analysis of tetralin hydroperoxide and its decomposition products by high pressure liquid chromatography has been developed. Elution with a single, mixed solvent from a micron-Porasil column was employed. Constant response factors (internal standard method) over large concentration ranges and reproducible retention parameters are reported.

Reactive Membrane Barriers for Containment of Subsurface Contamination

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

William A. Arnold; Edward L. Cussler

2007-02-26

The overall goal of this project was to develop reactive membrane barriers--a new and flexible technique to contain and stabilize subsurface contaminants. Polymer membranes will leak once a contaminant is able to diffuse through the membrane. By incorporating a reactive material in the polymer, however, the contaminant is degraded or immobilized within the membrane. These processes increase the time for contaminants to breakthrough the barrier (i.e. the lag time) and can dramatically extend barrier lifetimes. In this work, reactive barrier membranes containing zero-valent iron (Fe{sup 0}) or crystalline silicotitanate (CST) were developed to prevent the migration of chlorinated solvents andmore » cesium-137, respectively. These studies were complemented by the development of models quantifying the leakage/kill time of reactive membranes and describing the behavior of products produced via the reactions within the membranes. First, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) membranes containing Fe{sup 0} and CST were prepared and tested. Although PVA is not useful in practical applications, it allows experiments to be performed rapidly and the results to be compared to theory. For copper ions (Cu{sup 2+}) and carbon tetrachloride, the barrier was effective, increasing the time to breakthrough over 300 times. Even better performance was expected, and the percentage of the iron used in the reaction with the contaminants was determined. For cesium, the CST laden membranes increased lag times more than 30 times, and performed better than theoretical predictions. A modified theory was developed for ion exchangers in reactive membranes to explain this result. With the PVA membranes, the effect of a groundwater matrix on barrier performance was tested. Using Hanford groundwater, the performance of Fe{sup 0} barriers decreased compared to solutions containing a pH buffer and high levels of chloride (both of which promote iron reactivity). For the CST bearing membrane, performance improved by a factor of three when groundwater was used in place of deionized water. The performance of high density polyethylene (HDPE) membranes containing Fe{sup 0} was then evaluating using carbon tetrachloride as the target contaminant. Only with a hydrophilic additive (glycerol), was the iron able to extend lag times. Lag times were increased by a factor of 15, but only 2-3% of the iron was used, likely due to formation of oxide precipitates on the iron surface, which slowed the reaction. With thicker membranes and lower carbon tetrachloride concentrations, it is expected that performance will improve. Previous models for reactive membranes were also extended. The lag time is a measurement of when the barrier is breached, but contaminants do slowly leak through prior to the lag time. Thus, two parameters, the leakage and the kill time, were developed to determine when a certain amount of pollutant has escaped (the kill time) or when a given exposure (concentration x time) occurs (the leakage). Finally, a model was developed to explain the behavior of mobile reaction products in reactive barrier membranes. Although the goal of the technology is to avoid such products, it is important to be able to predict how these products will behave. Interestingly, calculations show that for any mobile reaction products, one half of the mass will diffuse into the containment area and one half will escape, assuming that the volumes of the containment area and the surrounding environment are much larger than the barrier membrane. These parameters/models will aid in the effective design of barrier membranes.« less

Waterpipe industry products and marketing strategies: analysis of an industry trade exhibition.

PubMed

Jawad, Mohammed; Nakkash, Rima T; Hawkins, Ben; Akl, Elie A

2015-12-01

Understanding product development and marketing strategies of transnational tobacco companies (TTCs) has been of vital importance in developing an effective tobacco control policy. However, comparatively little is known of the waterpipe tobacco industry, which TTCs have recently entered. This study aimed to gain an understanding of waterpipe tobacco products and marketing strategies by visiting a waterpipe trade exhibition. In April 2014, the first author attended an international waterpipe trade exhibition, recording descriptions of products and collecting all available marketing items. We described the purpose and function of all products, and performed a thematic analysis of messages in marketing material. We classified waterpipe products into four categories and noted product variation within categories. Electronic waterpipe products (which mimic electronic cigarettes) rarely appeared on waterpipe tobacco marketing material, but were displayed just as widely. Claims of reduced harm, safety and quality were paramount on marketing materials, regardless of whether they were promoting consumption products (tobacco, tobacco substitutes), electronic waterpipes or accessories. Waterpipe products are diverse in nature and are marketed as healthy and safe products. Furthermore, the development of electronic waterpipe products appears to be closely connected with the electronic cigarette industry, rather than the waterpipe tobacco manufacturers. Tobacco control policy must evolve to take account of the vast and expanding array of waterpipe products, and potentially also charcoal products developed for waterpipe smokers. We recommend that tobacco substitutes be classified as tobacco products. Continued surveillance of the waterpipe industry is warranted. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Team Software Development for Aerothermodynamic and Aerodynamic Analysis and Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alexandrov, N.; Atkins, H. L.; Bibb, K. L.; Biedron, R. T.; Carpenter, M. H.; Gnoffo, P. A.; Hammond, D. P.; Jones, W. T.; Kleb, W. L.; Lee-Rausch, E. M.

2003-01-01

A collaborative approach to software development is described. The approach employs the agile development techniques: project retrospectives, Scrum status meetings, and elements of Extreme Programming to efficiently develop a cohesive and extensible software suite. The software product under development is a fluid dynamics simulator for performing aerodynamic and aerothermodynamic analysis and design. The functionality of the software product is achieved both through the merging, with substantial rewrite, of separate legacy codes and the authorship of new routines. Examples of rapid implementation of new functionality demonstrate the benefits obtained with this agile software development process. The appendix contains a discussion of coding issues encountered while porting legacy Fortran 77 code to Fortran 95, software design principles, and a Fortran 95 coding standard.

Dual use application of killer app FHE products for Mil/Aero

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hackler, R. Douglas

2016-05-01

The flexible electronics industry has adopted flexible hybrid electronic (FHE) systems as a go to market strategy. High volume products are emerging for body worn bio patches, conformal structural appliques and smart labels. These products were principally developed for volume consumer and industrial market solutions but are directly applicable to advanced defense systems. This article highlights the state of the art for bio patch, conformal and smart FHE products and identifies their dual use capability for defense systems. A discussion of the manufacturing base for FHE products is presented and current experimental prototype results and performance are shared.

Fringe field switching AMLCD technology in military and consumer applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niemczyk, James

2006-05-01

American Panel Corporation (APC) designs and delivers customized AMLCD products for aircraft cockpits and rugged ground vehicles. APC specifies AMLCD's to be designed and manufactured, based on an exclusive relationship, with both LG.Philips LCD, in South Korea and BOE Hydis, in South Korea. This paper addresses the Fringe Field Switching (FFS) technology developed by BOE Hydis and APC's customization of this technology into both high end avionics display products as well as consumer display products. FFS technology optimizes all optical and electrical performance qualities into a single product. APC offers the high temperature FFS products for all applications.

48 CFR 252.235-7003 - Frequency authorization.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... Officer during the initial planning, experimental, or developmental phase of contract performance. (c) The... development, production, construction, testing, or operation of a device for which a radio frequency...

48 CFR 252.235-7003 - Frequency authorization.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... Officer during the initial planning, experimental, or developmental phase of contract performance. (c) The... development, production, construction, testing, or operation of a device for which a radio frequency...

48 CFR 252.235-7003 - Frequency authorization.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... Officer during the initial planning, experimental, or developmental phase of contract performance. (c) The... development, production, construction, testing, or operation of a device for which a radio frequency...

A method for tailoring the information content of a software process model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perkins, Sharon; Arend, Mark B.

1990-01-01

The framework is defined for a general method for selecting a necessary and sufficient subset of a general software life cycle's information products, to support new software development process. Procedures for characterizing problem domains in general and mapping to a tailored set of life cycle processes and products is presented. An overview of the method is shown using the following steps: (1) During the problem concept definition phase, perform standardized interviews and dialogs between developer and user, and between user and customer; (2) Generate a quality needs profile of the software to be developed, based on information gathered in step 1; (3) Translate the quality needs profile into a profile of quality criteria that must be met by the software to satisfy the quality needs; (4) Map the quality criteria to set of accepted processes and products for achieving each criterion; (5) Select the information products which match or support the accepted processes and product of step 4; and (6) Select the design methodology which produces the information products selected in step 5.

A method for tailoring the information content of a software process model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perkins, Sharon; Arend, Mark B.

1990-01-01

The framework is defined for a general method for selecting a necessary and sufficient subset of a general software life cycle's information products, to support new software development process. Procedures for characterizing problem domains in general and mapping to a tailored set of life cycle processes and products is presented. An overview of the method is shown using the following steps: (1) During the problem concept definition phase, perform standardized interviews and dialogs between developer and user, and between user and customer; (2) Generate a quality needs profile of the software to be developed, based on information gathered in step 1; (3) Translate the quality needs profile into a profile of quality criteria that must be met by the software to satisfy the quality needs; (4) Map the quality criteria to a set of accepted processes and products for achieving each criterion; (5) select the information products which match or support the accepted processes and product of step 4; and (6) Select the design methodology which produces the information products selected in step 5.

Development of a Rubber-Based Product Using a Mixture Experiment: A Challenging Case Study

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

Kaya, Yahya; Piepel, Gregory F.; Caniyilmaz, Erdal

2013-07-01

Many products used in daily life are made by blending two or more components. The properties of such products typically depend on the relative proportions of the components. Experimental design, modeling, and data analysis methods for mixture experiments provide for efficiently determining the component proportions that will yield a product with desired properties. This article presents a case study of the work performed to develop a new rubber formulation for an o-ring (a circular gasket) with requirements specified on 10 product properties. Each step of the study is discussed, including: 1) identifying the objective of the study and requirements formore » properties of the o-ring, 2) selecting the components to vary and specifying the component constraints, 3) constructing a mixture experiment design, 4) measuring the responses and assessing the data, 5) developing property-composition models, 6) selecting the new product formulation, and 7) confirming the selected formulation in manufacturing. The case study includes some challenging and new aspects, which are discussed in the article.« less

E-Business, Airport Development and Its Impact on the Increasing of Information of Communication Development in Indonesia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Setiawan, MI; Hasyim, C.; Kurniasih, N.; Abdullah, D.; Napitupulu, D.; Rahim, R.; Sukoco, A.; Dhaniarti, I.; Suyono, J.; Sudapet, IN; Nasihien, RD; Wulandari, DAR; Reswanda; Mudjanarko, SW; Sugeng; Wajdi, MBN

2018-04-01

The increasing number of the internet usage by households have an effect on the tourism sector. On the other hand, the aviation industry is growing as one of the development centers. This study aims to analyze the impact of information and communication development to airport performance in Indonesia. This is a correlation research with 151 of airports in Indonesia as a population. The sampling technique was done by using total sampling. The results of correlation (R) indicates the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) of Information and Communication has a relatively strong relationship with the Airport Performance. Meanwhile the results of Adjusted R test shows that they are other factors in increasing GRDP of Information and Communication besides Airport Performance. It shows the low impact of Information and Communication GRDP to the Airport Performance.

Development of Plant Control Diagnosis Technology and Increasing Its Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kugemoto, Hidekazu; Yoshimura, Satoshi; Hashizume, Satoru; Kageyama, Takashi; Yamamoto, Toru

A plant control diagnosis technology was developed to improve the performance of plant-wide control and maintain high productivity of plants. The control performance diagnosis system containing this technology picks out the poor performance loop, analyzes the cause, and outputs the result on the Web page. Meanwhile, the PID tuning tool is used to tune extracted loops from the control performance diagnosis system. It has an advantage of tuning safely without process changes. These systems are powerful tools to do Kaizen (continuous improvement efforts) step by step, coordinating with the operator. This paper describes a practical technique regarding the diagnosis system and its industrial applications.

Design and Analysis of Offshore Macroalgae Biorefineries.

PubMed

Golberg, Alexander; Liberzon, Alexander; Vitkin, Edward; Yakhini, Zohar

2018-03-15

Displacing fossil fuels and their derivatives with renewables, and increasing sustainable food production are among the major challenges facing the world in the coming decades. A possible, sustainable direction for addressing this challenge is the production of biomass and the conversion of this biomass to the required products through a complex system coined biorefinery. Terrestrial biomass and microalgae are possible sources; however, concerns over net energy balance, potable water use, environmental hazards, and uncertainty in the processing technologies raise questions regarding their actual potential to meet the anticipated food, feed, and energy challenges in a sustainable way. Alternative sustainable sources for biorefineries are macroalgae grown and processed offshore. However, implementation of the offshore biorefineries requires detailed analysis of their technological, economic, and environmental performance. In this chapter, the basic principles of marine biorefineries design are shown. The methods to integrate thermodynamic efficiency, investment, and environmental aspects are discussed. The performance improvement by development of new cultivation methods that fit macroalgae physiology and development of new fermentation methods that address macroalgae unique chemical composition is shown.

Experimental investigation of the combustion products in an aluminised solid propellant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zhu; Li, Shipeng; Liu, Mengying; Guan, Dian; Sui, Xin; Wang, Ningfei

2017-04-01

Aluminium is widely used as an important additive to improve ballistic and energy performance in solid propellants, but the unburned aluminium does not contribute to the specific impulse and has both thermal and momentum two-phase flow losses. So understanding of aluminium combustion behaviour during solid propellant burning is significant when improving internal ballistic performance. Recent developments and experimental results reported on such combustion behaviour are presented in this paper. A variety of experimental techniques ranging from quenching and dynamic measurement, to high-speed CCD video recording, were used to study aluminium combustion behaviour and the size distribution of the initial agglomerates. This experimental investigation also provides the size distribution of the condensed phase products. Results suggest that the addition of an organic fluoride compound to solid propellant will generate smaller diameter condensed phase products due to sublimation of AlF3. Lastly, a physico-chemical picture of the agglomeration process was also developed based on the results of high-speed CCD video analysis.

Separation of silver ions and starch modified silver nanoparticles using high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet and inductively coupled mass spectrometric detection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hanley, Traci A.; Saadawi, Ryan; Zhang, Peng; Caruso, Joseph A.; Landero-Figueroa, Julio

2014-10-01

The production of commercially available products marketed to contain silver nanoparticles is rapidly increasing. Species-specific toxicity is a phenomenon associated with many elements, including silver, making it imperative to develop a method to identify and quantify the various forms of silver (namely, silver ions vs. silver nanoparticles) possibly present in these products. In this study a method was developed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with ultraviolet (UV-VIS) and inductively coupled mass spectrometric (ICP-MS) detection to separate starch stabilized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and silver ions (Ag+) by cation exchange chromatography with 0.5 M nitric acid mobile phase. The silver nanoparticles and ions were baseline resolved with an ICP-MS response linear over four orders of magnitude, 0.04 mg kg- 1 detection limit, and 90% chromatographic recovery for silver solutions containing ions and starch stabilized silver nanoparticles smaller than 100 nm.

Advanced Acid Gas Separation Technology for Clean Power and Syngas Applications

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

Amy, Fabrice; Hufton, Jeffrey; Bhadra, Shubhra

2015-06-30

Air Products has developed an acid gas removal technology based on adsorption (Sour PSA) that favorably compares with incumbent AGR technologies. During this DOE-sponsored study, Air Products has been able to increase the Sour PSA technology readiness level by successfully operating a two-bed test system on coal-derived sour syngas at the NCCC, validating the lifetime and performance of the adsorbent material. Both proprietary simulation and data obtained during the testing at NCCC were used to further refine the estimate of the performance of the Sour PSA technology when expanded to a commercial scale. In-house experiments on sweet syngas combined withmore » simulation work allowed Air Products to develop new PSA cycles that allowed for further reduction in capital expenditure. Finally our techno economic analysis of the use the Sour PSA technology for both IGCC and coal-to-methanol applications suggests significant improvement of the unit cost of electricity and methanol compared to incumbent AGR technologies.« less

Assay of common sunscreen agents in suncare products by high-performance liquid chromatography on a cyanopropyl-bonded silica column.

PubMed

Simeoni, Silvia; Tursilli, Rosanna; Bianchi, Anna; Scalia, Santo

2005-06-15

A rapid high-performance liquid chromatographic method was developed for the simultaneous assay of eight of the most common sunscreen agents (octyl-methoxycinnamate, oxybenzone, butyl-methoxydibenzoylmethane, octyl-salicilate, methylbenzylidene camphor, octyl-dimethylamminobenzoate, phenylbenzimidazole sulphonic acid and octocrylene) in sun protection products. Evaluation of the influence of different stationary phases and eluents on the separation selectivity showed that optimal resolution was obtained on a cyanopropyl-silica column eluted with methanol-acetonitrile-tetrahydrofuran-aqueous acetic acid. A small adjustment of the proposed chromatographic system (reduction in the aqueous content of the mobile phase) permitted also the determination of the extremely hydrophobic UV filter, methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol along with three other sunscreen agents, octyl-methoxycinnamate, oxybenzone, butyl-methoxydibenzoylmethane. Recoveries of the UV filters from the spiked formulation were between 95.7 and 103.7% and the precision of the method was better than 6.1% relative standard deviation. The developed HPLC procedure is suitable for quality control and photostability analyses of commercial suncare products.

Optical and system engineering in the development of a high-quality student telescope kit

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pompea, Stephen M.; Pfisterer, Richard N.; Ellis, Scott; Arion, Douglas N.; Fienberg, Richard Tresch; Smith, Thomas C.

2010-07-01

The Galileoscope student telescope kit was developed by a volunteer team of astronomers, science education experts, and optical engineers in conjunction with the International Year of Astronomy 2009. This refracting telescope is in production with over 180,000 units produced and distributed with 25,000 units in production. The telescope was designed to be able to resolve the rings of Saturn and to be used in urban areas. The telescope system requirements, performance metrics, and architecture were established after an analysis of current inexpensive telescopes and student telescope kits. The optical design approaches used in the various prototypes and the optical system engineering tradeoffs will be described. Risk analysis, risk management, and change management were critical as was cost management since the final product was to cost around 15 (but had to perform as well as 100 telescopes). In the system engineering of the Galileoscope a variety of analysis and testing approaches were used, including stray light design and analysis using the powerful optical analysis program FRED.

The influence of different screw concepts while processing fibre reinforced thermoplastics with the concept of inline-compounding on an injection moulding machine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moritzer, E.; Müller, E.; Kleeschulte, R.

2014-05-01

Today, the global market poses major challenges for industrial product development. Complexity, the wide range of variants, flexibility and individuality are just some of the features that products have to fulfil. Product series additionally have shorter and shorter lifetimes. Because of their high capacity for adaptation, polymers are increasingly able to substitute traditional materials such as wood, glass and metals in various fields of application [1]. But polymers can only substitute other materials if they are optimally suited to the applications in question. Hence, product-specific material development is becoming increasingly important [2]. The problem is that the traditional development process for new polymer formulations is much too complex, too slow and therefore too expensive. Product-specific material development is thus out of the question for most processors. Integrating the compounding step in the injection moulding process would lead to a more efficient and faster development process for a new polymer formulation, providing an opportunity to create new product-specific materials. This process is called inline-compounding on an injection moulding machine. In order to develop this innovative formulation concept, with the focus on fibre reinforced thermoplastics, different screw-concepts are compared with regard to the resultant performance characteristics in the part, such as mechanical properties and fibre length distribution.

Correlation of laboratory and production freeze drying cycles.

PubMed

Kuu, Wei Y; Hardwick, Lisa M; Akers, Michael J

2005-09-30

The purpose of this study was to develop the correlation of cycle parameters between a laboratory and a production freeze-dryer. With the established correlation, key cycle parameters obtained using a laboratory dryer may be converted to those for a production dryer with minimal experimental efforts. In order to develop the correlation, it was important to consider the contributions from the following freeze-drying components: (1) the dryer, (2) the vial, and (3) the formulation. The critical parameters for the dryer are the shelf heat transfer coefficient and shelf surface radiation emissivity. The critical parameters for the vial are the vial bottom heat transfer coefficients (the contact parameter Kcs and separation distance lv), and vial top heat transfer coefficient. The critical parameter of the formulation is the dry layer mass transfer coefficient. The above heat and mass transfer coefficients were determined by freeze-drying experiments in conjunction with mathematical modeling. With the obtained heat and mass transfer coefficients, the maximum product temperature, Tbmax, during primary drying was simulated using a primary drying subroutine as a function of the shelf temperature and chamber pressure. The required shelf temperature and chamber pressure, in order to perform a successful cycle run without product collapse, were then simulated based on the resulting values of Tbmax. The established correlation approach was demonstrated by the primary drying of the model formulation 5% mannitol solution. The cycle runs were performed using a LyoStar dryer as the laboratory dryer and a BOC Edwards dryer as the production dryer. The determined normalized dried layer mass transfer resistance for 5% mannitol is expressed as RpN=0.7313+17.19l, where l is the receding dry layer thickness. After demonstrating the correlation approach using the model formulation 5% mannitol, a practical comparison study was performed for the actual product, the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) formulation. The determined normalized dried layer mass transfer resistance for the LDH formulation is expressed as RpN=4.344+10.85l. The operational templates Tbmax and primary drying time were also generated by simulation. The cycle run for the LDH formulation using the Edwards production dryer verified that the cycle developed in a laboratory freeze-dryer was transferable at the production scale.

Improving Quantitative Precipitation Estimation via Data Fusion of High-Resolution Ground-based Radar Network and CMORPH Satellite-based Product

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cifelli, R.; Chen, H.; Chandrasekar, V.; Xie, P.

2015-12-01

A large number of precipitation products at multi-scales have been developed based upon satellite, radar, and/or rain gauge observations. However, how to produce optimal rainfall estimation for a given region is still challenging due to the spatial and temporal sampling difference of different sensors. In this study, we develop a data fusion mechanism to improve regional quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE) by utilizing satellite-based CMORPH product, ground radar measurements, as well as numerical model simulations. The CMORPH global precipitation product is essentially derived based on retrievals from passive microwave measurements and infrared observations onboard satellites (Joyce et al. 2004). The fine spatial-temporal resolution of 0.05o Lat/Lon and 30-min is appropriate for regional hydrologic and climate studies. However, it is inadequate for localized hydrometeorological applications such as urban flash flood forecasting. Via fusion of the Regional CMORPH product and local precipitation sensors, the high-resolution QPE performance can be improved. The area of interest is the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) Metroplex, which is the largest land-locked metropolitan area in the U.S. In addition to an NWS dual-polarization S-band WSR-88DP radar (i.e., KFWS radar), DFW hosts the high-resolution dual-polarization X-band radar network developed by the center for Collaborative Adaptive Sensing of the Atmosphere (CASA). This talk will present a general framework of precipitation data fusion based on satellite and ground observations. The detailed prototype architecture of using regional rainfall instruments to improve regional CMORPH precipitation product via multi-scale fusion techniques will also be discussed. Particularly, the temporal and spatial fusion algorithms developed for the DFW Metroplex will be described, which utilizes CMORPH product, S-band WSR-88DP, and X-band CASA radar measurements. In order to investigate the uncertainties associated with each individual product and demonstrate the precipitation data fusion performance, both individual and fused QPE products are evaluated using rainfall measurements from a disdrometer and gauge network.

COSTMODL: An automated software development cost estimation tool

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roush, George B.

1991-01-01

The cost of developing computer software continues to consume an increasing portion of many organizations' total budgets, both in the public and private sector. As this trend develops, the capability to produce reliable estimates of the effort and schedule required to develop a candidate software product takes on increasing importance. The COSTMODL program was developed to provide an in-house capability to perform development cost estimates for NASA software projects. COSTMODL is an automated software development cost estimation tool which incorporates five cost estimation algorithms including the latest models for the Ada language and incrementally developed products. The principal characteristic which sets COSTMODL apart from other software cost estimation programs is its capacity to be completely customized to a particular environment. The estimation equations can be recalibrated to reflect the programmer productivity characteristics demonstrated by the user's organization, and the set of significant factors which effect software development costs can be customized to reflect any unique properties of the user's development environment. Careful use of a capability such as COSTMODL can significantly reduce the risk of cost overruns and failed projects.

JT8D and JT9D jet engine performance improvement program. Task 1: Feasibility analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gaffin, W. O.; Webb, D. E.

1979-01-01

JT8D and JT9D component performance improvement concepts which have a high probability of incorporation into production engines were identified and ranked. An evaluation method based on airline payback period was developed for the purpose of identifying the most promising concepts. The method used available test data and analytical models along with conceptual/preliminary designs to predict the performance improvements, weight, installation characteristics, cost for new production and retrofit, maintenance cost, and qualitative characteristics of candidate concepts. These results were used to arrive at the concept payback period, which is the time required for an airline to recover the investment cost of concept implementation.

Prediction of enteric methane production, yield, and intensity in dairy cattle using an intercontinental database.

PubMed

Niu, Mutian; Kebreab, Ermias; Hristov, Alexander N; Oh, Joonpyo; Arndt, Claudia; Bannink, André; Bayat, Ali R; Brito, André F; Boland, Tommy; Casper, David; Crompton, Les A; Dijkstra, Jan; Eugène, Maguy A; Garnsworthy, Phil C; Haque, Md Najmul; Hellwing, Anne L F; Huhtanen, Pekka; Kreuzer, Michael; Kuhla, Bjoern; Lund, Peter; Madsen, Jørgen; Martin, Cécile; McClelland, Shelby C; McGee, Mark; Moate, Peter J; Muetzel, Stefan; Muñoz, Camila; O'Kiely, Padraig; Peiren, Nico; Reynolds, Christopher K; Schwarm, Angela; Shingfield, Kevin J; Storlien, Tonje M; Weisbjerg, Martin R; Yáñez-Ruiz, David R; Yu, Zhongtang

2018-02-16

Enteric methane (CH 4 ) production from cattle contributes to global greenhouse gas emissions. Measurement of enteric CH 4 is complex, expensive, and impractical at large scales; therefore, models are commonly used to predict CH 4 production. However, building robust prediction models requires extensive data from animals under different management systems worldwide. The objectives of this study were to (1) collate a global database of enteric CH 4 production from individual lactating dairy cattle; (2) determine the availability of key variables for predicting enteric CH 4 production (g/day per cow), yield [g/kg dry matter intake (DMI)], and intensity (g/kg energy corrected milk) and their respective relationships; (3) develop intercontinental and regional models and cross-validate their performance; and (4) assess the trade-off between availability of on-farm inputs and CH 4 prediction accuracy. The intercontinental database covered Europe (EU), the United States (US), and Australia (AU). A sequential approach was taken by incrementally adding key variables to develop models with increasing complexity. Methane emissions were predicted by fitting linear mixed models. Within model categories, an intercontinental model with the most available independent variables performed best with root mean square prediction error (RMSPE) as a percentage of mean observed value of 16.6%, 14.7%, and 19.8% for intercontinental, EU, and United States regions, respectively. Less complex models requiring only DMI had predictive ability comparable to complex models. Enteric CH 4 production, yield, and intensity prediction models developed on an intercontinental basis had similar performance across regions, however, intercepts and slopes were different with implications for prediction. Revised CH 4 emission conversion factors for specific regions are required to improve CH 4 production estimates in national inventories. In conclusion, information on DMI is required for good prediction, and other factors such as dietary neutral detergent fiber (NDF) concentration, improve the prediction. For enteric CH 4 yield and intensity prediction, information on milk yield and composition is required for better estimation. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Manufacturing methods of a composite cell case for a Ni-Cd battery

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauer, J. L.; Bogner, R. S.; Lowe, E. P.; Orlowski, E.

1979-01-01

Graphite epoxy material for a nickel cadmium battery cell case has been evaluated and determined to perform in the simulated environment of the battery. The basic manufacturing method requires refinement to demonstrate production feasibility. The various facets of production scale-up, i.e., process and tooling development together with material and process control, have been integrated into a comprehensive manufacturing process that assures production reproducibility and product uniformity. Test results substantiate that a battery cell case produced from graphite epoxy pre-impregnated material utilizing internal pressure bag fabrication method is feasible.

Managing large energy and mineral resources (EMR) projects in challenging environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chanmeka, Arpamart

The viability of energy mineral resources (EMR) construction projects is contingent upon the state of the world economic climate. Oil sands projects in Alberta, Canada exemplify large EMR projects that are highly sensitive to fluctuations in the world market. Alberta EMR projects are constrained by high fixed production costs and are also widely recognized as one of the most challenging construction projects to successfully deliver due to impacts from extreme weather conditions, remote locations and issues with labor availability amongst others. As indicated in many studies, these hardships strain the industry's ability to execute work efficiently, resulting in declining productivity and mounting cost and schedule overruns. Therefore, to enhance the competitiveness of Alberta EMR projects, project teams are targeting effective management strategies to enhance project performance and productivity by countering the uniquely challenging environment in Alberta. The main purpose of this research is to develop industry wide benchmarking tailored to the specific constraints and challenges of Alberta. Results support quantitative assessments and identify the root causes of project performance and ineffective field productivity problems in the heavy industry sector capital projects. Customized metrics produced from the data collected through a web-based survey instrument were used to quantitatively assess project performance in the following dimensions: cost, schedule, change, rework, safety, engineering and construction productivity and construction practices. The system enables the industry to measure project performance more accurately, get meaningful comparisons, while establishing credible norms specific to Alberta projects. Data analysis to identify the root cause of performance problems was conducted. The analysis of Alberta projects substantiated lessons of previous studies to create an improved awareness of the abilities of Alberta-based companies to manage their unique projects. This investigation also compared Alberta-based projects with U.S. projects to point out the differences in project process and management strategies under different environments. The relative impact of factors affecting construction productivity were identified and validated by the input from industry experts. The findings help improve the work processes used by companies developing projects in Alberta.

Manufacture and performance of full size structural flakeboards from Douglas-fir forest residues

Treesearch

J. Dobbin McNatt

1978-01-01

The Forest Products Laboratory manufactured and assessed the performance of 4- by 8-foot structural flakeboard panels from Douglas-fir forest residues after target performance goals were developed. The 42 pcf, three- layer boards were 1/2 inch thick with high quality disk cut flakes for the faces and lower quality flakes processed through a ring flaker in the core....

Development of Botanical Composition in Maribaya Pasture, Brebes, Central Java

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Umami, N.; Ngadiyono, N.; Panjono; Agus, F. N.; Shirothul, H. M.; Budisatria, I. G. S.; Hendrawati, Y.; Subroto, I.

2018-02-01

The research was aimed to observe the development of botanical composition in Maribaya pastures. The sampling method was cluster random sampling. The observed variables were the type of forages and the botanical composition in the pasture. Botanical composition was measured by using Line Intercept method and the production was measured by the estimation of botany production for each square meter using its dry matter measurement. The botani sampling was performed using square with size of 1×1 m2. The observation was performed before the pasture made (at 2015) and after the pasture made (at 2017). Based on the research result, it was found that there was significant difference between the forage type in the pasture at 2015 and at 2017. It happens due to the adjustment for the Jabres cattle feed.

Development of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for Site-Specific Crop Production Management

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) have been developed and applied to support the practice of precision agriculture. Compared to piloted aircrafts, an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle can focus on much smaller crop fields with much lower flight altitude than regular airplanes to perform site-specific management ...

Development of the NBT assay as a marker of sperm oxidative stress.

PubMed

Tunc, Ozlem; Thompson, Jeremy; Tremellen, Kelton

2010-02-01

Oxidative stress is a well-established cause of male infertility, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) causing infertility principally by impairing sperm motility and DNA integrity. Currently, most clinics do not test their infertile patients for the presence of oxidative stress because the available tests are expensive or difficult to perform. As antioxidant therapy may improve sperm DNA integrity and pregnancy outcomes, it has become apparent that there is an unmet clinical need for an inexpensive and easy-to-perform assay to identify sperm oxidative stress. The aim of this study was to develop a standardized protocol for performing a photometric nitro blue tetrazolium (NBT) assay for the measurement of seminal ROS production via production of coloured formazan, whilst correlating these results with impaired sperm function (motility and DNA integrity). Semen samples from 21 fertile and 36 male aetiology infertile men were assessed for ROS production (NBT assay), sperm DNA integrity (TUNEL), apoptosis (Annexin V) and sperm motility. Infertile men's semen contained on average fourfold higher levels of ROS than fertile men. The production of ROS by sperm was positively correlated with sperm DNA fragmentation and apoptosis, whilst being negatively correlated with sperm motility. Receiver-operating characteristic plot analysis established a cut-off point of 24 microg formazan/10(7) sperm having a sensitivity of 91.7% and a specificity of 81% for determining the fertility status of an individual. This study has been successful in establishing a standardized protocol for performing a photometric seminal NBT assay that has significant clinical utility in identifying men with impaired fertility because of oxidative stress.

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

Merchant, Bion J.

The Seismo-Hydroacoustic Data Acquisition System (SHDAS) is undergoing evaluation in preparation for its engineering, development, and deployment by the U.S Navy as an ocean bottom seismic monitoring system. At the current stage of development, the production digitizers are being evaluated to confirm their performance prior to packaging and assembly for deployment. The testing of the digitizers is being conducted at Delta Group Electronics, the digitizer fabricator, in San Diego, California, performed by Sandia National Laboratories with the assistance of Leidos and Delta Group Electronics.

High-performance liquid chromatography/high-resolution multiple stage tandem mass spectrometry using negative-ion-mode hydroxide-doped electrospray ionization for the characterization of lignin degradation products.

PubMed

Owen, Benjamin C; Haupert, Laura J; Jarrell, Tiffany M; Marcum, Christopher L; Parsell, Trenton H; Abu-Omar, Mahdi M; Bozell, Joseph J; Black, Stuart K; Kenttämaa, Hilkka I

2012-07-17

In the search for a replacement for fossil fuel and the valuable chemicals currently obtained from crude oil, lignocellulosic biomass has become a promising candidate as an alternative biorenewable source for crude oil. Hence, many research efforts focus on the extraction, degradation, and catalytic transformation of lignin, hemicellulose, and cellulose. Unfortunately, these processes result in the production of very complex mixtures. Further, while methods have been developed for the analysis of mixtures of oligosaccharides, this is not true for the complex mixtures generated upon degradation of lignin. For example, high-performance liquid chromatography/multiple stage tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS(n)), a tool proven to be invaluable in the analysis of complex mixtures derived from many other biopolymers, such as proteins and DNA, has not been implemented for lignin degradation products. In this study, we have developed an HPLC separation method for lignin degradation products that is amenable to negative-ion-mode electrospray ionization (ESI doped with NaOH), the best method identified thus far for ionization of lignin-related model compounds without fragmentation. The separated and ionized compounds are then analyzed by MS(3) experiments to obtain detailed structural information while simultaneously performing high-resolution measurements to determine their elemental compositions in the two parts of a commercial linear quadrupole ion trap/Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer. A lignin degradation product mixture was analyzed using this method, and molecular structures were proposed for some components. This methodology significantly improves the ability to analyze complex product mixtures that result from degraded lignin.

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

NEIL K. MCDOUGALD

Alzeta Corporation has developed surface-stabilized fuel injectors for use with lean premixed combustors which provide extended turndown and ultra-low NOX emission performance. These injectors use a patented technique to form interacting radiant and blue-flame zones immediately above a selectively-perforated porous metal surface. This allows stable operation at low reaction temperatures. This technology is being commercialized under the product name nanoSTAR. Initial tests demonstrated low NOX emissions but, were limited by flashback failure of the injectors. The weld seams required to form cylindrical injectors from flat sheet material were identified as the cause of the failures. The approach for this projectmore » was to first develop new fabrication methods to produce injectors without weld seams, verify similar emissions performance to the original flat sheet material and then develop products for microturbines and small gas turbines along parallel development paths. A 37 month project was completed to develop and test a surface stabilized combustion system for gas turbine applications. New fabrication techniques developed removed a technological barrier to the success of the product by elimination of conductive weld seams from the injector surface. The injectors demonstrated ultra low emissions in rig tests conducted under gas turbine operating conditions. The ability for injectors to share a common combustion chamber allowing for deployment in annular combustion liner was also demonstrated. Some further development is required to resolve integration issues related to specific engine constraints, but the nanoSTAR technology has clearly demonstrated its low emissions potential. The overall project conclusions can be summarized: (1) A wet-laid casting method successfully eliminated weld seams from the injector surface without degrading performance. (2) Gas turbine cycle analysis identified several injector designs and control schemes to start and load engines using nanoSTAR technology. A mechanically simple single zone injector can be used in Solar Turbine's Taurus 60 engine. (3) Rig testing of single monolithic injectors demonstrated sub 3 ppmv NOX and sub 10 ppmv CO and UHC emissions (all corrected to 15% O2) at Taurus 60 full-load pressure and combustion air inlet temperature. (4) Testing of two nanoSTAR injectors in Solar Turbine's sector rig demonstrated the ability for injectors to survive when fired in close proximity at Taurus 60 full load pressure and combustion air inlet temperature. (5) Sector rig tests demonstrated emissions performance and range of operability consistent with single injector rig tests. Alzeta has committed to the commercialization of nanoSTAR injectors and has sufficient production capability to conclude development and meet initial demand.« less

Revealing the Reaction Mechanism of Na–O 2 Batteries using Environmental Transmission Electron Microscopy

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

Kwak, Won -Jin; Luo, Langli; Jung, Hun -Gi

Due to its high energy efficiency, sodium-oxygen (Na-O 2) batteries have been extensively studied recently. One of the critical challenges for the development of the Na-O 2 battery is the elucidation of the reaction mechanism, the reaction products, and thestructural and chemical evolution of reaction product as well as their correlation with the battery performance. Herein, in-situ TEM was employed to probe the reaction mechanism and the structural evolution of the discharge products in Na-O 2 batteries. The discharge product is featured by the formation of both cubic and conformal NaO 2. It has been noticed that the impingement ofmore » reaction product (NaO 2) can lead to the coarsening of the particle through coalescence. We also investigated the stability of the discharge product, noticing that the reaction product NaO 2 is stable in the case of solid electrolyte. Here, the present work provide unprecedented insight for the development of the Na-O 2 batteries.« less

Revealing the Reaction Mechanism of Na–O 2 Batteries using Environmental Transmission Electron Microscopy

DOE PAGES

Kwak, Won -Jin; Luo, Langli; Jung, Hun -Gi; ...

2018-01-15

Due to its high energy efficiency, sodium-oxygen (Na-O 2) batteries have been extensively studied recently. One of the critical challenges for the development of the Na-O 2 battery is the elucidation of the reaction mechanism, the reaction products, and thestructural and chemical evolution of reaction product as well as their correlation with the battery performance. Herein, in-situ TEM was employed to probe the reaction mechanism and the structural evolution of the discharge products in Na-O 2 batteries. The discharge product is featured by the formation of both cubic and conformal NaO 2. It has been noticed that the impingement ofmore » reaction product (NaO 2) can lead to the coarsening of the particle through coalescence. We also investigated the stability of the discharge product, noticing that the reaction product NaO 2 is stable in the case of solid electrolyte. Here, the present work provide unprecedented insight for the development of the Na-O 2 batteries.« less

A two-step optimization strategy for 2nd generation ethanol production using softwood hemicellulosic hydrolysate as fermentation substrate.

PubMed

Boboescu, Iulian-Zoltan; Gélinas, Malorie; Beigbeder, Jean-Baptiste; Lavoie, Jean-Michel

2017-11-01

Ethanol production using waste biomass represents a very attractive approach. However, there are considerable challenges preventing a wide distribution of these novel technologies. Thus, a fractional-factorial screening of process variables and Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast inoculum conditions was performed using a synthetic fermentation media. Subsequently, a response-surface methodology was developed for maximizing ethanol yields using a hemicellulosic solution generated through the chemical hydrolysis of steam treatment broth obtained from residual softwood biomass. In addition, nutrient supplementation using starch-based ethanol production by-products was investigated. An ethanol yield of 74.27% of the theoretical maximum was observed for an initial concentration of 65.17g/L total monomeric sugars. The two-step experimental strategy used in this work represents the first successful attempt to developed and use a model to make predictions regarding the optimal ethanol production using both softwood feedstock residues as well as 1st generation ethanol production by-products. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Mini review: hydrogen and ethanol co-production from waste materials via microbial fermentation.

PubMed

Soo, Chiu-Shyan; Yap, Wai-Sum; Hon, Wei-Min; Phang, Lai-Yee

2015-10-01

The simultaneous production of hydrogen and ethanol by microorganisms from waste materials in a bioreactor system would establish cost-effective and time-saving biofuel production. This review aims to present the current status of fermentation processes producing hydrogen accompanied by ethanol as a co-product. We outlined the microbes used and their fundamental pathways for hydrogen and ethanol fermentation. Moreover, we discussed the exploitation of renewable and sustainable waste materials as promising feedstock and the limitations encountered. The low substrate bioconversion rate in hydrogen and ethanol co-production is regarded as the primary constraint towards the development of large scale applications. Thus, microbes with an enhanced capability have been generated via genetic manipulation to diminish the inefficiency of substrate consumption. In this review, other potential approaches to improve the performance of co-production through fermentation were also elaborated. This review will be a useful guide for the future development of hydrogen and ethanol co-production using waste materials.

Manufacturing concepts and development trends in the industrial production of microelectromechanical systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schuenemann, Matthias; Grimme, Ralf; Kaufmann, Thomas; Schwaab, Gerhard; Baeder, Uwe; Schaefer, Wolfgang; Dorner, Johann

1998-01-01

During the past few years, remarkable affords have been made for the realization of microscale sensors, actuators and microelectromechanical system. Due to advances in solid state and micromachining technologies, significant advances in designing, fabricating and testing of microminiaturized devices have been achieved at laboratory level. However, the technical and economical realization of microelectromechanical systems is considerably impeded by the lack of satisfying device technology for their industrial production. A production concept for the industrial production of hybrid microelectromechanical systems was developed and investigated. The concept is based on the resources and requirements of medium-sized enterprises and is characterized by its flexibility. Microsystem fabrication is separated into microfabrication steps performed in-house and technological steps performed by external technology providers. The modularity of the concept allows for a gradual increase in the degree of automation and the in-house production depth, depending on market capacity and financial resources. To demonstrate the feasibility of this approach, the design and realization of a microfabrication process center, which includes tasks like transport and handling, processing, cleaning, testing and storing are discussed. Special attention is given to the supply and feeding of microparts, to the necessary magazines, trays and transport systems, to the implementation of homogeneous mechanical, environmental and information interfaces, to the employment of advanced control, scheduling, and lot tracking concepts, and to the application of highly modular and cost-efficient clean production concepts.

Use of soybean vinasses as a germinant medium for a Geobacillus stearothermophilus ATCC 7953 sterilization biological indicator.

PubMed

Dlugokenski, Regina E F; Sella, Sandra R B R; Guizelini, Belquis P; Vandenberghe, Luciana P S; Woiciechowski, Adenise L; Soccol, Carlos R; Minozzo, João C

2011-04-01

A novel low-cost medium was developed from by-products and wastes from the ethanol agro-industry to replace commercial media in the production of a steam sterilization biological indicator (BI). Various recovery media were developed using soybean or sugarcane molasses and vinasse to prepare a self-contained BI. Media performance was evaluated by viability and heat resistance (D(121 °C) value) according to regulatory standards. A medium produced with a soybean vinasse ratio of 1:70 (1.4%) (w/v) produced the results, with D(121 °C)=2.9±0.5 min and Usk=12.7±2.1 min. The addition of 0.8% (w/v) yeast extract improved the germination of heat-damaged spores. The pH variation from 6.0 to 7.3 resulted in a gradual increase in the D(121 °C) value. The absence of calcium chloride resulted in a decrease in germination, while no significant differences were observed with starch addition. Soybean vinasses may thus be used as the main component of a culture medium to substitute for commercial media in the production of self-contained biological indicators. The use of ethanol production waste in this biotechnological process realized a reliable performance, minimized the environmental impact, and decreased BI production costs while producing a high quality product. © Springer-Verlag 2011

An overview of fiber-to-the-premises (FTTP) product requirements and qualification programs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gebizlioglu, Osman S.; Gallo, Ernest J.

2006-04-01

North American deployments of FTTP architectures have been rapidly increasing. While the FTTP market is being driven by major telecommunications service providers, equipment suppliers have been scrambling to bring products to market that will ensure them a piece of this high-stakes market. In this invited presentation/paper, we propose to examine the technical requirements that are needed to support the new FTTP network with a host of new products that have been in development. To enable service providers select the best new products for FTTP deployment, product selection needs to be based on the analysis and testing of new products for performance and reliability, Telcordia, in its traditional role of telecommunications standards development, has been publishing generic requirements (GR) documents that have been used by suppliers, service providers and the industry at large. Product qualification programs based on the established performance and reliability requirements/standards have been designed to evaluate products to determine if they can 1) withstand the rigors of the outside plant deployment environment and perform for extended periods of time, 2) be upgradeable, and 3) craft friendly. The outside plant is a tough environment to live in. A product must perform under the extreme conditions of cold down -40°C (-40°F) and hot up to 46°C (115°F) with high humidity of 95%, rain, snow, sleet, vibration due to traffic, lightning, heating due to solar loads, high winds, ice, sand storms, and products are even tested to demonstrate if they can continue to operate in an earthquake, a wild fire and a shotgun blast. All FTTP products are not only expected to perform, but they must meet stringent optical performance criteria of low insertion loss and reflectance / return loss at a broad range of wavelengths from 1310, 1490, 1550 and 1625 nm. While the upstream (from the customer to the CO) voice and data transmission is currently planned over 1310-nm wavelength, the downstream (from the CO to the customer) voice and data transmission is offered over 1490 nm, the video (analog, digital and HDTV) transmission will be offered over 1550-nm wavelength, and the 1625-nm will be reserved for overhead, surveillance, and management functions. This paper will cover some of the new products that will be needed and the requirements that would apply. The FTTP deployments require the placement of a number of new products in the FTTP network from the CO to the customer premises. These new products are designed to be installed in an efficient manner with acceptable cost to the service provider in the outside plant and to perform the required functions. One such new product is an HFOC (Hardened Fiber Optic Connector). The HFOC products provide drop connections to customers from fiber distribution networks. They may be placed in pedestal closures, aerial and buried closures, or equipment located at a Fiber Distribution Hub (FDH) enclosure or optical network termination (ONT) unit near customer premises. Current versions of this HFOC product have been based on a well-known and widely used SC fiber optic connector. Simply described, it consists of an SC connector in a protective shell made of a polymeric (plastic) material, and it allows highly efficient connections between the distribution cables from the FDH (Fiber Distribution Hub) where optical signal on a feeder cable from the CO is split for transmission over distribution cables and drop cables in locations near customer premises. In addition to the description of new products, the paper will review the environmental, mechanical and optical test criteria. Attendees would benefit from the knowledge of products and requirements needed to support FTTP deployment.

The Next Technology Revolution - Nano Electronic Technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turlik, Iwona

2004-03-01

Nanotechnology is a revolutionary engine that will engender enormous changes in a vast majority of today's industries and markets, while potentially creating whole new industries. The impact of nanotechnology is particularly significant in the electronics industry, which is constantly driven by the need for higher performance, increased functionality, smaller size and lower cost. Nanotechnology can influence many of the hundreds of components that are typically assembled to manufacture modern electronic devices. Motorola manufactures electronics for a wide range of industries and communication products. In this presentation, the typical components of a cellular phone are outlined and technology requirements for future products, the customer benefits, and the potential impact of nanotechnology on many of the components are discussed. Technology needs include reliable materials supply, processes for high volume production, experimental and simulation tools, etc. For example, even routine procedures such as failure characterization may require the development of new tools for investigating nano-scale phenomena. Business needs include the development of an effective, high volume supply chain for nano-materials and devices, disruptive product platforms, and visible performance impact on the end consumer. An equally significant long-term industry need is the availability of science and engineering graduates with a multidisciplinary focus and a deep understanding of the fundamentals of nano-technology, that can harness the technology to create revolutionary products.

Integrated process development-a robust, rapid method for inclusion body harvesting and processing at the microscale level.

PubMed

Walther, Cornelia; Kellner, Martin; Berkemeyer, Matthias; Brocard, Cécile; Dürauer, Astrid

2017-10-21

Escherichia coli stores large amounts of highly pure product within inclusion bodies (IBs). To take advantage of this beneficial feature, after cell disintegration, the first step to optimal product recovery is efficient IB preparation. This step is also important in evaluating upstream optimization and process development, due to the potential impact of bioprocessing conditions on product quality and on the nanoscale properties of IBs. Proper IB preparation is often neglected, due to laboratory-scale methods requiring large amounts of materials and labor. Miniaturization and parallelization can accelerate analyses of individual processing steps and provide a deeper understanding of up- and downstream processing interdependencies. Consequently, reproducible, predictive microscale methods are in demand. In the present study, we complemented a recently established high-throughput cell disruption method with a microscale method for preparing purified IBs. This preparation provided results comparable to laboratory-scale IB processing, regarding impurity depletion, and product loss. Furthermore, with this method, we performed a "design of experiments" study to demonstrate the influence of fermentation conditions on the performance of subsequent downstream steps and product quality. We showed that this approach provided a 300-fold reduction in material consumption for each fermentation condition and a 24-fold reduction in processing time for 24 samples.

Quality Assessment of Collection 6 MODIS Atmospheric Science Products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manoharan, V. S.; Ridgway, B.; Platnick, S. E.; Devadiga, S.; Mauoka, E.

2015-12-01

Since the launch of the NASA Terra and Aqua satellites in December 1999 and May 2002, respectively, atmosphere and land data acquired by the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) sensor on-board these satellites have been reprocessed five times at the MODAPS (MODIS Adaptive Processing System) located at NASA GSFC. The global land and atmosphere products use science algorithms developed by the NASA MODIS science team investigators. MODAPS completed Collection 6 reprocessing of MODIS Atmosphere science data products in April 2015 and is currently generating the Collection 6 products using the latest version of the science algorithms. This reprocessing has generated one of the longest time series of consistent data records for understanding cloud, aerosol, and other constituents in the earth's atmosphere. It is important to carefully evaluate and assess the quality of this data and remove any artifacts to maintain a useful climate data record. Quality Assessment (QA) is an integral part of the processing chain at MODAPS. This presentation will describe the QA approaches and tools adopted by the MODIS Land/Atmosphere Operational Product Evaluation (LDOPE) team to assess the quality of MODIS operational Atmospheric products produced at MODAPS. Some of the tools include global high resolution images, time series analysis and statistical QA metrics. The new high resolution global browse images with pan and zoom have provided the ability to perform QA of products in real time through synoptic QA on the web. This global browse generation has been useful in identifying production error, data loss, and data quality issues from calibration error, geolocation error and algorithm performance. A time series analysis for various science datasets in the Level-3 monthly product was recently developed for assessing any long term drifts in the data arising from instrument errors or other artifacts. This presentation will describe and discuss some test cases from the recently processed C6 products. We will also describe the various tools and approaches developed to verify and assess the algorithm changes implemented by the science team to address known issues in the products and improve the quality of the products.

New understandings of failure modes in SSL luminaires

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shepherd, Sarah D.; Mills, Karmann C.; Yaga, Robert; Johnson, Cortina; Davis, J. Lynn

2014-09-01

As SSL products are being rapidly introduced into the market, there is a need to develop standard screening and testing protocols that can be performed quickly and provide data surrounding product lifetime and performance. These protocols, derived from standard industry tests, are known as ALTs (accelerated life tests) and can be performed in a timeframe of weeks to months instead of years. Accelerated testing utilizes a combination of elevated temperature and humidity conditions as well as electrical power cycling to control aging of the luminaires. In this study, we report on the findings of failure modes for two different luminaire products exposed to temperature-humidity ALTs. LEDs are typically considered the determining component for the rate of lumen depreciation. However, this study has shown that each luminaire component can independently or jointly influence system performance and reliability. Material choices, luminaire designs, and driver designs all have significant impacts on the system reliability of a product. From recent data, it is evident that the most common failure modes are not within the LED, but instead occur within resistors, capacitors, and other electrical components of the driver. Insights into failure modes and rates as a result of ALTs are reported with emphasis on component influence on overall system reliability.

Strategies of performance self-monitoring in automotive production.

PubMed

Faye, Hélène; Falzon, Pierre

2009-09-01

Production in the automotive industry, based on assembly line work, is now characterized by lean manufacturing and customization. This results in greater flexibility and increased quality demands, including worker performance self-monitoring. The objectives of this study are to refine the concept of performance self-monitoring and to characterize the strategies developed by operators to achieve it. Data were collected based on the method of individual auto-confrontation, consisting of two steps: eleven assembly-line operators of a French automotive company were individually observed and video-taped while they were working; an interview then allowed each operator to discuss his/her activity based on the video-tape. This study expands the concept of performance self-monitoring by highlighting three types of strategies directly oriented toward quality: prevention, feedback control and control action strategies.

Refuse derived soluble bio-organics enhancing tomato plant growth and productivity

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

Sortino, Orazio; Dipasquale, Mauro; Montoneri, Enzo, E-mail: enzo.montoneri@unito.it

2012-10-15

Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Municipal bio-wastes are a sustainable source of bio-based products. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Refuse derived soluble bio-organics promote chlorophyll synthesis. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Refuse derived soluble bio-organics enhance plant growth and fruit ripening rate. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Sustainable chemistry exploiting urban refuse allows sustainable development. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Chemistry, agriculture and the environment benefit from biowaste technology. - Abstract: Municipal bio-refuse (CVD), containing kitchen wastes, home gardening residues and public park trimmings, was treated with alkali to yield a soluble bio-organic fraction (SBO) and an insoluble residue. These materials were characterized using elemental analysis, potentiometric titration, and 13C NMR spectroscopy, and then applied as organic fertilizers tomore » soil for tomato greenhouse cultivation. Their performance was compared with a commercial product obtained from animal residues. Plant growth, fruit yield and quality, and soil and leaf chemical composition were the selected performance indicators. The SBO exhibited the best performance by enhancing leaf chlorophyll content, improving plant growth and fruit ripening rate and yield. No product performance-chemical composition relationship could be assessed. Solubility could be one reason for the superior performance of SBO as a tomato growth promoter. The enhancement of leaf chlorophyll content is discussed to identify a possible link with the SBO photosensitizing properties that have been demonstrated in other work, and thus with photosynthetic performance.« less