Average current is better than peak current as therapeutic dosage for biphasic waveforms in a ventricular fibrillation pig model of cardiac arrest.

PubMed

Chen, Bihua; Yu, Tao; Ristagno, Giuseppe; Quan, Weilun; Li, Yongqin

2014-10-01

Defibrillation current has been shown to be a clinically more relevant dosing unit than energy. However, the effects of average and peak current in determining shock outcome are still undetermined. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between average current, peak current and defibrillation success when different biphasic waveforms were employed. Ventricular fibrillation (VF) was electrically induced in 22 domestic male pigs. Animals were then randomized to receive defibrillation using one of two different biphasic waveforms. A grouped up-and-down defibrillation threshold-testing protocol was used to maintain the average success rate of 50% in the neighborhood. In 14 animals (Study A), defibrillations were accomplished with either biphasic truncated exponential (BTE) or rectilinear biphasic waveforms. In eight animals (Study B), shocks were delivered using two BTE waveforms that had identical peak current but different waveform durations. Both average and peak currents were associated with defibrillation success when BTE and rectilinear waveforms were investigated. However, when pathway impedance was less than 90Ω for the BTE waveform, bivariate correlation coefficient was 0.36 (p=0.001) for the average current, but only 0.21 (p=0.06) for the peak current in Study A. In Study B, a high defibrillation success (67.9% vs. 38.8%, p<0.001) was observed when the waveform delivered more average current (14.9±2.1A vs. 13.5±1.7A, p<0.001) while keeping the peak current unchanged. In this porcine model of VF, average current was better than peak current to be an adequate parameter to describe the therapeutic dosage when biphasic defibrillation waveforms were used. The institutional protocol number: P0805. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Approaching Multidimensional Forms of Knowledge through Personal Meaning Mapping in Science Integrating Teaching outside the Classroom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hartmeyer, Rikke; Bølling, Mads; Bentsen, Peter

2017-01-01

Current research points to Personal Meaning Mapping (PMM) as a method useful in investigating students' prior and current science knowledge. However, studies investigating PMM as a method for exploring specific knowledge dimensions are lacking. Ensuring that students are able to access specific knowledge dimensions is important, especially in…

Postpolio Syndrome: Using a Single Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Obringer, S. John; Elrod, G. Franklin

2004-01-01

The purpose of this study was to identify the major characteristics of postpolio syndrome (PPS), investigate physical and psychological limitations, and comprehensively review current medical interventions through a single subject design. The study addresses the symptoms and characteristics, the effect on life style, and the current recommended…

Effect of Lanthanum-Strontium Cathode Current-Collecting Layer on the Performance of Anode Supported Type Planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Sun-Young; Ji, Ho-Il; Kim, Hae-Ryoung; Yoon, Kyung Joong; Son, Ji-Won; Lee, Hae-Weon; Lee, Jong-Ho

2013-07-01

We applied screen-printed (La,Sr)CoO3 as a current-collecting layer of planar type unit-cell for lower temperature operation of SOFCs. In this study the effects of the cathode current-collecting layer on the performance of unit cell and symmetric half cell were investigated via AC and DC polarization experiments. According to our investigation, appropriately controlled current collecting layer was very effective to enhance the unit cell performance by reducing not only the ohmic resistance but also the polarization losses of SOFC cathode.

A Meta-Analytic Investigation of Therapy Modality Outcomes for Sexually Abused Children and Adolescents: An Exploratory Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hetzel-Riggin, Melanie D.; Brausch, Amy M.; Montgomery, Brad S.

2007-01-01

Objective: The purpose of the current study was to investigate the independent effects of different treatment elements on a number of secondary problems related to childhood and adolescent sexual abuse, as well as investigate a number of different moderators of treatment effectiveness. Method: Twenty-eight studies that provided treatment outcome…

Investigating the Performance of Omega Index According to Item Parameters and Ability Levels

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sunbul, Onder; Yormaz, Seha

2018-01-01

Purpose: Several studies can be found in the literature that investigate the performance of ? under various conditions. However no study for the effects of item difficulty, item discrimination, and ability restrictions on the performance of ? could be found. The current study aims to investigate the performance of ? for the conditions given below.…

Distributioin, orientation and scales of the field-aligned currents measured by Swarm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, J.; Dunlop, M. W.

2016-12-01

We have statistically studied the R1, R2 and net field aligned currents using the FAC data of the Swarm satellites. We also have investigated the statistical, dual-spacecraft correlations of field-aligned current signatures between two Swarm spacecraft (A and C). For the first time we have inferred the orientations of the current sheets of FACs directly, using the maximum correlations, obtained from sliding data segments, which show clear trends in magnetic local time (MLT). To compare with this we also check the MVAB method. To explore the scale and variability of the current sheet supposition, we investigate the MLT dependence of the maximum correlations in different time shift or longitude shift bins.

Effects of a 3D segmental prosthetic system for tricuspid valve annulus remodelling on the right coronary artery: a human cadaveric coronary angiography study.

PubMed

Riki-Marishani, Mohsen; Gholoobi, Arash; Sazegar, Ghasem; Aazami, Mathias H; Hedjazi, Aria; Sajjadian, Maryam; Ebrahimi, Mahmoud; Aghaii-Zade Torabi, Ahmad

2017-09-01

A prosthetic system to repair secondary tricuspid valve regurgitation was developed. The conceptual engineering of the current device is based on 3D segmental remodelling of the tricuspid valve annulus in lieu of reductive annuloplasty. This study was designed to investigate the operational safety of the current prosthetic system with regard to the anatomical integrity of the right coronary artery (RCA) in fresh cadaveric human hearts. During the study period, from January to April 2016, the current prosthetic system was implanted on the tricuspid valve annulus in fresh cadaveric human hearts that met the study's inclusion criteria. The prepared specimens were investigated via selective coronary angiography of the RCA in the catheterization laboratory. The RCA angiographic anatomies were categorized as normal, distorted, kinked or occluded. Sixteen specimens underwent implantation of the current prosthetic system. The mean age of the cadaveric human hearts was 43.24 ± 15.79 years, with vehicle accident being the primary cause of death (59%). A dominant RCA was noticed in 62.5% of the specimens. None of the specimens displayed any injury, distortion, kinking or occlusion in the RCA due to the implantation of the prostheses. In light of the results of the present study, undertaken on fresh cadaveric human heart specimens, the current segmental prosthetic system for 3D remodelling of the tricuspid valve annulus seems to be safe vis-à-vis the anatomical integrity of the RCA. Further in vivo studies are needed to investigate the functional features of the current prosthetic system with a view to addressing the complex pathophysiology of secondary tricuspid valve regurgitation. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Energized Oxygen : Speiser Current Sheet Bifurcation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

George, D. E.; Jahn, J. M.

2017-12-01

A single population of energized Oxygen (O+) is shown to produce a cross-tail bifurcated current sheet in 2.5D PIC simulations of the magnetotail without the influence of magnetic reconnection. Treatment of oxygen in simulations of space plasmas, specifically a magnetotail current sheet, has been limited to thermal energies despite observations of and mechanisms which explain energized ions. We performed simulations of a homogeneous oxygen background, that has been energized in a physically appropriate manner, to study the behavior of current sheets and magnetic reconnection, specifically their bifurcation. This work uses a 2.5D explicit Particle-In-a-Cell (PIC) code to investigate the dynamics of energized heavy ions as they stream Dawn-to-Dusk in the magnetotail current sheet. We present a simulation study dealing with the response of a current sheet system to energized oxygen ions. We establish a, well known and studied, 2-species GEM Challenge Harris current sheet as a starting point. This system is known to eventually evolve and produce magnetic reconnection upon thinning of the current sheet. We added a uniform distribution of thermal O+ to the background. This 3-species system is also known to eventually evolve and produce magnetic reconnection. We add one additional variable to the system by providing an initial duskward velocity to energize the O+. We also traced individual particle motion within the PIC simulation. Three main results are shown. First, energized dawn- dusk streaming ions are clearly seen to exhibit sustained Speiser motion. Second, a single population of heavy ions clearly produces a stable bifurcated current sheet. Third, magnetic reconnection is not required to produce the bifurcated current sheet. Finally a bifurcated current sheet is compatible with the Harris current sheet model. This work is the first step in a series of investigations aimed at studying the effects of energized heavy ions on magnetic reconnection. This work differs significantly from previous investigations involving heavy ions in that they are energized as opposed to being simply thermal. This is a variation based firmly on published in-situ measurements. It also differs in that a complete population is used as opposed to simply test particles in a magnetic field model.

Reduction in Cheating Following a Forensic Investigation on a Statewide Summative Assessment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McClintock, Joseph C.

2016-01-01

This study examined indicators of cheating on a statewide summative assessment for grades 3--8 over a 4-year period. Between year 2 and year 3 of this study, the state launched an aggressive, highly publicized investigation into cheating by educators. The basis of the investigation was an erasure analysis. The current study found that the number…

Review of current sonic boom studies.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kane, E. J.

1973-01-01

Several aspects of the sonic boom phenomena are currently under investigation at The Boeing Co. This work, supported by the NASA and the FAA, includes an in-depth analysis of sonic boom measurements recorded at the BREN tower, a summary and evaluation of sonic boom investigations done in the last decade and a half, and configuration studies to determine practical lower bound sonic boom limits. The BREN tower test program yielded unique and valuable data because it was the first time that vertical profile measurements were made through caustics produced by maneuvers and atmospheric refraction. The objective of the second effort is to compile in a single reference an annotated abstract, including significant results, for each published sonic boom study and to provide a comprehensive review of the current state of the art to aid future researchers. The configuration work is devoted toward determining the feasibility of supersonic transport type airplanes with a primary design goal of acceptable sonic boom characteristics. Each of these investigations is briefly reviewed and significant results are discussed.

On the Variability of Wilson Currents by Storm Type and Phase

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Deierling, Wiebke; Kalb, Christina; Mach, Douglas; Liu, Chuntao; Peterson, Michael; Blakeslee, Richard

2014-01-01

Storm total conduction currents from electrified clouds are thought to play a major role in maintaining the potential difference between the earth's surface and the upper atmosphere within the Global Electric Circuit (GEC). However, it is not entirely known how the contributions of these currents vary by cloud type and phase of the clouds life cycle. Estimates of storm total conduction currents were obtained from data collected over two decades during multiple field campaigns involving the NASA ER-2 aircraft. In this study the variability of these currents by cloud type and lifecycle is investigated. We also compared radar derived microphysical storm properties with total storm currents to investigate whether these storm properties can be used to describe the current variability of different electrified clouds. The ultimate goal is to help improve modeling of the GEC via quantification and improved parameterization of the conduction current contribution of different cloud types.

Preliminary investigation on the use of low current pulsed power Z-pinch plasma devices for the study of early stage plasma instabilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaselouris, E.; Dimitriou, V.; Fitilis, I.; Skoulakis, A.; Koundourakis, G.; Clark, E. L.; Chatzakis, J.; Bakarezos, Μ; Nikolos, I. K.; Papadogiannis, N. A.; Tatarakis, M.

2018-01-01

This article addresses key features for the implementation of low current pulsed power plasma devices for the study of matter dynamics from the solid to the plasma phase. The renewed interest in such low current plasma devices lies in the need to investigate methods for the mitigation of prompt seeding mechanisms for the generation of plasma instabilities. The low current when driven into thick wires (skin effect mode) allows for the simultaneous existence of all phases of matter from solid to plasma. Such studies are important for the concept of inertial confinement fusion where the mitigation of the instability seeding mechanisms arising from the very early moments within the target’s heating is of crucial importance. Similarly, in the magnetized liner inertial fusion concept it is an open question as to how much surface non-uniformity correlates with the magneto-Rayleigh-Taylor instability, which develops during the implosion. This study presents experimental and simulation results, which demonstrate that the use of low current pulsed power devices in conjunction with appropriate diagnostics can be important for studying seeding mechanisms for the imminent generation of plasma instabilities in future research.

Studies related to ocean dynamics. Task 3.2: Aircraft Field Test Program to investigate the ability of remote sensing methods to measure current/wind-wave interactions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huang, N. E.; Flood, W. A.; Brown, G. S.

1975-01-01

The feasibility of remote sensing of current flows in the ocean and the remote sensing of ocean currents by backscattering cross section techniques was studied. It was established that for capillary waves, small scale currents could be accurately measured through observation of wave kinematics. Drastic modifications of waves by changing currents were noted. The development of new methods for the measurement of capillary waves are discussed. Improvement methods to resolve data processing problems are suggested.

Approaches to Studying and Students' Use of a Computer Supported Learning Environment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Foster, Jonathan; Lin, Angela

2007-01-01

Although studies of students' study approaches in face to face learning environments are commonplace, studies investigating the role of students' study approaches in online learning environments is currently a less explored area. This paper presents the findings of a survey aimed at investigating the relationship between students' approaches to…

Investigation of cables for ionization chambers.

PubMed

Spokas, J J; Meeker, R D

1980-01-01

Seven coaxial cables which are in use for carrying currents generated in ionization chambers have been critically studied with reference to their suitability to this application. Included in this study are four low-noise triaxial cables and three low-noise two-conductor cables. For each cable the following characteristics were considered: inherent noise currents, currents produced by cable movements, polarization currents, the degree of electrostatic shielding of the central signal-carrying conductor, and radiation-induced cable currents. The study indicated that of the seven cables, two low-noise triaxial cables, both employing solid Teflon dielectric surrounding the central conductor, appear to offer the best overall performance for use with ionization chambers.

Validation of a New Placebo Interferential Current Method: A New Placebo Method of Electrostimulation.

PubMed

Mendonça Araújo, Fernanda; Alves Menezes, Mayara; Martins de Araújo, Ariane; Abner Dos Santos Sousa, Thiago; Vasconcelos Lima, Lucas; Ádan Nunes Carvalho, Elyson; Melo DeSantana, Josimari

2017-01-01

The present study aimed to investigate if a new placebo device for interferential current (IFC) that delivers current during only the first 40 seconds of stimulation is effective at promoting adequate subject blinding. Seventy-five subjects were recruited and enrolled into three groups: active IFC, inactive placebo, and new placebo. Pressure pain threshold (PPT), cutaneous sensory threshold (CST), and pain intensity were measured before and after the intervention. After the final assessment, the subjects and the investigator who applied the current were asked about the type of stimulation administered. None of the placebo forms studied resulted in significant changes to PPT, CST, or pain intensity. The subjects stimulated with active IFC at high intensities (> 17 mA) of stimulation showed higher PPT and CST and lower pain intensity than subjects stimulated at low intensities ( p < 0.03). The new placebo method blinded the investigator in 100% of cases of IFC and 60% of subjects stimulated, whereas for inactive placebo, the investigator was blinded at a rate of 0% and 34% of subjects. The new method of placebo IFC was effective for blinding of research investigators and most of the active IFC-treated subjects, promoting an appropriate placebo method. © 2016 American Academy of Pain Medicine. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com

In-school service predictors of employment for individuals with intellectual disability.

PubMed

Park, Jiyoon; Bouck, Emily

2018-06-01

Although there are many secondary data analyses of the National Longitudinal Transition Study-2 (NLTS-2) to investigate post-school outcome for students with disabilities, there has been a lack of research with in-school service predictors and post-school outcome for students with specific disability categories. This study was a secondary data analysis of NLTS-2 to investigate the relationship between current employment status and in-school services for individuals with intellectual disability. Statistical methods such as descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used to analyze NLTS-2 data set. The main findings included that in-school services were correlated with current employment status, and that primary disability (i.e., mild intellectual disability and moderate/severe intellectual disability) was associated with current employment status. In-school services are critical in predicting current employment for individuals with intellectual disability. Also, data suggest additional research is needed to investigate various in-school services and variables that could predict employment differences between individuals with mild and moderate/severe intellectual disability. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Correlational Study of Special Education Teachers' Qualifications and Preferred Writing Instructional Strategy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holzhauer, Kim Elaine

2013-01-01

The purpose of the current quantitative correlational study was to investigate the relationship the qualifications of special education teachers and their preferred writing instruction method either formulaic or process writing. The study investigated the relationship between professional development in writing instruction, years of experience,…

Investigating the microstructural and neurochemical environment within the basal ganglia of current methamphetamine abusers.

PubMed

Lin, Joanne C; Jan, Reem K; Kydd, Rob R; Russell, Bruce R

2015-04-01

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive psychostimulant and the medical, social, and economic consequences associated with its use have become a major international problem. Current evidence has shown methamphetamine to be particularly neurotoxic to dopamine neurons and striatal structures within the basal ganglia. A previous study from our laboratory demonstrated larger putamen volumes in actively using methamphetamine-dependent participants. The purpose of this current study was to determine whether striatal structures in the same sample of participants also exhibit pathology on the microstructural and molecular level. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) were carried out in current methamphetamine users (n = 18) and healthy controls (n = 22) to investigate diffusion indices and neurometabolite levels in the basal ganglia. Contrary to findings from previous DTI and MRS studies, no significant differences in diffusion indices or metabolite levels were observed in the basal ganglia regions of current methamphetamine users. These findings differ from those reported in abstinent users and the absence of diffusion and neurochemical abnormalities may suggest that striatal enlargement in current methamphetamine use may be due to mechanisms other than edema and glial proliferation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Obesity Prevention Opinions of School Stakeholders: A Qualitative Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Della Torre, Sophie Bucher; Akre, Christina; Suris, Joan-Carles

2010-01-01

Background: In general, schools are an important setting to implement current recommendations for obesity prevention in children because the vast majority of children attend school. This study investigated the opinions of different school stakeholders on the feasibility and acceptability of current obesity prevention strategies that could be…

Turkish Primary School Teachers' Perceptions of School Culture Regarding ICT Integration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tezci, Erdogan

2011-01-01

The current study aimed at identifying Turkish primary school teachers' perceptions of school culture regarding ICT integration in education. In addition, the current study was designed to investigate factors that might influence their perceptions. The participants were 1540 primary school teachers. The findings revealed that the teachers'…

Singaporean Adolescents' Perceptions of Online Social Communication: An Exploratory Factor Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zheng, Robert Z.; Cheok, Angeline; Khoo, Eng

2011-01-01

The current study investigated adolescents' perceptions in online social communication. Three factors were perceived by adolescents as critical to online social communication. These included self-identity, self-confidence, and self-social factors. Results showed significant differences between the factors derived from the current study and those…

MOOCs: Expectations and Reality. Full Report

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hollands, Fiona M.; Tirthali, Devayani

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the goals of institutions that are currently developing and delivering Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) and to assess the current evidence as to whether these goals are being met. A qualitative study was conducted comprising interviews of 83 individuals across 62 institutions including public and…

Monolingual or Bilingual Intervention for Primary Language Impairment? A Randomized Control Trial

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thordardottir, Elin; Cloutier, Geneviève; Ménard, Suzanne; Pelland-Blais, Elaine; Rvachew, Susan

2015-01-01

Purpose: This study investigated the clinical effectiveness of monolingual versus bilingual language intervention, the latter involving speech-language pathologist-parent collaboration. The study focuses on methods that are currently being recommended and that are feasible within current clinical contexts. Method: Bilingual children with primary…

Current medico-legal death investigation system in China.

PubMed

Chang, Lin; Zhang, Baosheng; Yan, Ping; Fowler, David; Li, Ling

2011-07-01

Medico-legal death investigation in China has a long history that can be traced back to the Chhin era in the third century BC. We conducted a national study on the current medico-legal death investigation system in China. Our study showed that, at present, medico-legal death investigations in China are conducted by c. 12,000 forensic medical experts mainly within five relatively independent agencies: the police organizations, the prosecutors' offices, the departments/divisions of forensic medicine/science in medical colleges and universities, the Institute of Forensic Science in the Ministry of Justice, and the government or private forensic societies. Owing to China's large population and area, the medico-legal death investigation is largely based on the administrative divisions. There is a wide variation in the scope, extent, and quality of investigations among the agencies and at the different levels of county/district, municipal, and provincial governments. This article gives a general overview of medicolegal death investigation in modern China. © 2011 American Academy of Forensic Sciences.

The Use of Brain Stimulation in Dysphagia Management.

PubMed

Simons, Andre; Hamdy, Shaheen

2017-04-01

Dysphagia is common sequela of brain injury with as many as 50% of patients suffering from dysphagia following stroke. Currently, the majority of guidelines for clinical practice in the management of dysphagia focus on the prevention of complications while any natural recovery takes place. Recently, however, non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) have started to attract attention and are applied to investigate both the physiology of swallowing and influences on dysphagia. TMS allows for painless stimulation of the brain through an intact skull-an effect which would normally be impossible with electrical currents due to the high resistance of the skull. By comparison, tDCS involves passing a small electric current (usually under 2 mA) produced by a current generator over the scalp and cranium external to the brain. Initial studies used these techniques to better understand the physiological mechanisms of swallowing in healthy subjects. More recently, a number of studies have investigated the efficacy of these techniques in the management of neurogenic dysphagia with mixed results. Controversy still exists as to which site, strength and duration of stimulation yields the greatest improvement in dysphagia. And while multiple studies have suggested promising effects of NIBS, more randomised control trials with larger sample sizes are needed to investigate the short- and long-term effects of NIBS in neurogenic dysphagia.

Imaging of current distributions in superconducting thin film structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dönitz, Dietmar

2006-10-01

Local analysis plays an important role in many fields of scientific research. However, imaging methods are not very common in the investigation of superconductors. For more than 20 years, Low Temperature Scanning Electron Microscopy (LTSEM) has been successfully used at the University of Tübingen for studying of condensed matter phenomena, especially of superconductivity. In this thesis LTSEM was used for imaging current distributions in different superconducting thin film structures: - Imaging of current distributions in Josephson junctions with ferromagnetic interlayer, also known as SIFS junctions, showed inhomogeneous current transport over the junctions which directly led to an improvement in the fabrication process. An investigation of improved samples showed a very homogeneous current distribution without any trace of magnetic domains. Either such domains were not present or too small for imaging with the LTSEM. - An investigation of Nb/YBCO zigzag Josephson junctions yielded important information on signal formation in the LTSEM both for Josephson junctions in the short and in the long limit. Using a reference junction our signal formation model could be verified, thus confirming earlier results on short zigzag junctions. These results, which could be reproduced in this work, support the theory of d-wave symmetry in the superconducting order parameter of YBCO. Furthermore, investigations of the quasiparticle tunneling in the zigzag junctions showed the existence of Andreev bound states, which is another indication of the d-wave symmetry in YBCO. - The LTSEM study of Hot Electron Bolometers (HEB) allowed the first successful imaging of a stable 'Hot Spot', a self-heating region in HEB structures. Moreover, the electron beam was used to induce an - otherwise unstable - hot spot. Both investigations yielded information on the homogeneity of the samples. - An entirely new method of imaging the current distribution in superconducting interference devices (SQUIDs) could be developed. It is based on vortex imaging by LTSEM that had been established several years ago. The vortex signals can be used as local detectors for the vortex-free circulating sheet-current distribution J. Compared to previous inversion methods that infer J from the measured magnetic field, this method gives a more direct measurement of the current distribution. The experimental results were in very good agreement with numerical calculations of J. The presented investigations show how versatile and useful Low Temperature Scanning Electron Microscopy can be for studying superconducting thin film structures. Thus one may expect that many more important results can be obtained with this method.

Plasma injector for a three-phase plasma torch with rail electrodes and some results of its investigation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dudnik, Yu D.; Borovskoy, A. M.; Shiryaev, V. N.; Safronov, A. A.; Kuznetsov, V. E.; Vasilieva, O. B.; Pavlov, A. V.; Ivanov, D. V.

2018-01-01

Plasma injector made on the basis of the alternating-current plasma torch designed for the three-phase ac plasma torch with 100-500 kWrail electrodes is studied. The construction of the plasma injector is examined. Different materials for manufacture of injector electrodes are investigated. Current-voltage characteristics of the injector are obtained. Investigations of the plasma jet are carried out, and the jet temperature dependence versus the gas flow rate and electric power of the injector is measured.

Thermal characterizations of a large-format lithium ion cell focused on high current discharges

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Veth, C.; Dragicevic, D.; Merten, C.

2014-12-01

The thermal behavior of a large-format lithium ion cell has been investigated during measurements on cell and battery level. High current discharges up to 300 A are the main topic of this study. This paper demonstrates that the temperature response to high current loads provides the possibility to investigate internal cell parameters and their inhomogeneity. In order to identify thermal response caused by internal cell processes, the heat input due to contact resistances has been minimized. The differences between the thermal footprint of a cell during cell and battery measurements are being addressed. The study presented here focuses on the investigation of thermal hot and cold spots as well as temperature gradients in a 50 Ah pouch cell. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the difference between charge and discharge can have significant influence on the thermal behavior of lithium ion cells. Moreover, the miscellaneous thermal characteristics of differently aged lithium ion cells highlight the possibility of an ex-situ non-destructive post-mortem-analysis, providing the possibility of a qualitative and quantitative characterization of inhomogeneous cell-aging. These investigations also generate excellent data for the validation and parameterization of electro-thermal cell models, predicting the distribution of temperature, current, potential, SOC and SOH inside large-format cells.

Investigation of multilayer magnetic domain lattice file

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Torok, E. J.; Kamin, M.; Tolman, C. H.

1982-01-01

A theoretical and experimental investigation determined that current accessed self structured bubble memory devices have the potential of meeting projected data density and speed requirements. Device concepts analyzed include multilayer ferrimagnetic devices where the top layer contains a domain structure which defines the data location and the second contains the data. Current aperture and permalloy assisted current propagation devices were evaluated. Based on the result of this work more detailed device research was initiated. Detailed theoretical and experimental studies indicate that the difference in strip and threshold between a single bubble in the control layer and a double bubble which would exist in both the control layer and data layer is adequate to allow for detection of data. Detailed detector designs were investigated.

Inclusion Classrooms and Teachers: A Survey of Current Practices

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kilanowski-Press, Lisa; Foote, Chandra J.; Rinaldo, Vince J.

2010-01-01

This study investigates the current state of inclusion practices in general education classrooms via survey of 71 inclusion teachers currently serving as special educators across the state of New York. Specifically, small group instruction, co-teaching, one-to-one instruction, and planning support are explored in relationship to class size, number…

Reading Comprehension to 1970: Its Theoretical and Empirical Bases, and Its Implementation in Secondary Professional Textbooks, Instructional Materials, and Tests.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Harker, William John

This study was designed: (1) to determine current concepts of reading comprehension deriving from experimental investigations and theoretical statements, and (2) to establish whether these concepts are represented consistently in current secondary professional reading textbooks, instructional materials, and published tests. Current knowledge of…

1 mil gold bond wire study.

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

Huff, Johnathon; McLean, Michael B.; Jenkins, Mark W.

2013-05-01

In microcircuit fabrication, the diameter and length of a bond wire have been shown to both affect the current versus fusing time ratio of a bond wire as well as the gap length of the fused wire. This study investigated the impact of current level on the time-to-open and gap length of 1 mil by 60 mil gold bond wires. During the experiments, constant current was provided for a control set of bond wires for 250ms, 410ms and until the wire fused; non-destructively pull-tested wires for 250ms; and notched wires. The key findings were that as the current increases, themore » gap length increases and 73% of the bond wires will fuse at 1.8A, and 100% of the wires fuse at 1.9A within 60ms. Due to the limited scope of experiments and limited data analyzed, further investigation is encouraged to confirm these observations.« less

Clinical Research with Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS): Challenges and Future Directions

PubMed Central

Brunoni, Andre Russowsky; Nitsche, Michael A.; Bolognini, Nadia; Bikson, Marom; Wagner, Tim; Merabet, Lotfi; Edwards, Dylan J.; Valero-Cabre, Antoni; Rotenberg, Alexander; Pascual-Leone, Alvaro; Ferrucci, Roberta; Priori, Alberto; Boggio, Paulo; Fregni, Felipe

2011-01-01

Background Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a neuromodulatory technique that delivers low-intensity, direct current to cortical areas facilitating or inhibiting spontaneous neuronal activity. In the past ten years, tDCS physiological mechanisms of action have been intensively investigated giving support for the investigation of its applications in clinical neuropsychiatry and rehabilitation. However, new methodological, ethical, and regulatory issues emerge when translating the findings of preclinical and phase I studies into phase II and III clinical studies. The aim of this comprehensive review is to discuss the key challenges of this process and possible methods to address them. Methods We convened a workgroup of researchers in the field to review, discuss and provide updates and key challenges of neuromodulation use for clinical research. Main Findings/Discussion We reviewed several basic and clinical studies in the field and identified potential limitations, taking into account the particularities of the technique. We review and discuss the findings into four topics: (i) mechanisms of action of tDCS, parameters of use and computer-based human brain modeling investigating electric current fields and magnitude induced by tDCS; (ii) methodological aspects related to the clinical research of tDCS as divided according to study phase (i.e., preclinical, phase I, phase II and phase III studies); (iii) ethical and regulatory concerns; (iv) future directions regarding novel approaches, novel devices, and future studies involving tDCS. Finally, we propose some alternative methods to facilitate clinical research on tDCS. PMID:22037126

An Investigation of Upper Limb Motor Function in High Functioning Autism and Asperger's Disorder Using a Repetitive Fitts' Aiming Task

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Papadopoulos, Nicole; McGinley, Jennifer; Tonge, Bruce J.; Bradshaw, John L.; Saunders, Kerryn; Rinehart, Nicole J.

2012-01-01

There is now a growing body of research examining movement difficulties in children diagnosed with high functioning autism (HFA) and Asperger's disorder (AD). Despite this, few studies have investigated the kinematic components of movement that may be disrupted in children diagnosed with these disorders. The current study investigated rapid aiming…

Classroom versus Societal Willingness to Communicate: Investigating French as a Second Language in Flanders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Denies, Katrijn; Yashima, Tomoko; Janssen, Rianne

2015-01-01

This study investigates willingness to communicate (WTC) and its determinants through structural equation modelling (SEM). Building on models by MacIntyre and Charos (1996) and Yashima (2002), it addresses 3 apparent gaps in the current knowledge base: It is the first SEM-based WTC study in a Western European context, investigating French as a…

Efficiency of Iranian Translation Syllabus at BA Level; Deficiency: A New Comprehensive Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sohrabi, Sarah; Rahimi, Ramin; Arjmandi, Masoume

2015-01-01

This study aims at investigating the practicality of the current curriculum for translation studies at national level (Iranian curriculum). It is going to have a comprehensive idea of translation students and teachers (university lecturers) over the current translation syllabus at BA level in Iran. A researcher-made CEQ questionnaire (Curriculum…

Who Says You Need to Teach Reading to 11-13-Year-Olds?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parkhill, Faye Fiona; Fletcher, Jo Florence; Greenwood, Janinka; Grimley, Michael; Bridges, Sue

2013-01-01

Research indicates that as students move through the school system, many begin to experience difficulties with reading. With this mind, this study explored current practices and perceptions about reading programmes for 11-13-year-old students in New Zealand schools. The study employed an online survey designed to investigate current reading…

Noun Countability Judgments by Arabic Speakers of English

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alenizi, Aied

2017-01-01

In an attempt to better understand the role of relationship between the use of English indefinite article and L1 transfer in L2 countability judgments by speakers of non-classifier languages, the current study investigates how Saudi EFL learners judge noun countability in English. The current study aims to find; (1) if countability judgments…

Current Faculty Development Practices for Alternative Delivery Systems in Christian Higher Education Institutions: A Qualitative Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yates, Steven Lowell

2009-01-01

This research study was an investigation of current faculty development practices for alternative delivery systems. Attention was given to faculty development in general as well as specific facets of faculty development for alternative delivery systems. Future or intended faculty development practices were pursued, along with factors that…

Is Childhood Physical Abuse Associated with Peptic Ulcer Disease? Findings from a Population-Based Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fuller-Thomson, Esme; Bottoms, Jennifer; Brennenstuhl, Sarah; Hurd, Marion

2011-01-01

This study investigated childhood physical abuse and ulcers in a regionally representative community sample. Age, race and sex were controlled for in addition to five clusters of potentially confounding factors: adverse childhood conditions, adult socioeconomic status, current health behaviors, current stress and marital status, and history of…

Assessment in Music Education: Relationships between Classroom Practice and Professional Publication Topics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McQuarrie, Sarah H.; Sherwin, Ronald G.

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between actual current assessment practices of elementary music teachers and the assessment topics as published in the literature aimed at those teachers. Specifically, this study sought to: 1) identify the current assessment techniques utilized by elementary music teachers; 2) identify…

The Devalued Student: Misalignment of Current Mathematics Knowledge and Level of Instruction

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

LeMire, Steven D.; Melby, Marcella L.; Haskins, Anne M.; Williams, Tony

2012-01-01

Within this study, we investigated the association between 10th-grade students' mathematics performance and their feelings of instructional misalignment between their current mathematics knowledge and educator support. Data from the 2002 Education Longitudinal Study, which included a national sample of 750 public and private high schools in the…

Multicultural Music Represented in Current Elementary Music Textbooks: A Comparative Study of Two Published Music Series

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mason, Emily

2010-01-01

Research investigating music textbook series is limited and has primarily focused on series no longer in publication, on two grade levels, and/or on limited cultures. The purpose of this study is to examine what countries are and have been represented in current music textbook series. Additional questions in the study pertain to frequency and…

The Study Habits of Finnish College Students: A Two Sample Investigation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ludlum, Marty; Hongell, Linn; Tigerstedt, Christa; Alsobrook, Laura

2016-01-01

This research details surveys of current Finnish college students and their study habits. In the current project, we surveyed two distinct sets of students in the spring of 2012 (n = 74), and in the spring of 2014 (n = 119). We found that the students studied less than 9 hours per week. We found significant differences between students' study…

Investigation on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Continuous and Pulsed Current Gas Tungsten Arc Welded alloy 600

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srikanth, A.; Manikandan, M.

2018-02-01

The present study investigates the microstructure and mechanical properties of joints fabricated by Continuous and pulsed current gas tungsten arc welded alloy 600. Welding was done by autogenous mode. The macro examination was carried out to evaluate the welding defects in the weld joints. Optical and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) were performed to assess the microstructural changes in the fusion zone. Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis was carried to evaluate the microsegregation of alloying elements in the fusion zone. The tensile test was conducted to assess the strength of the weld joints. The results show that no welding defects were observed in the fusion zones of Continuous and Pulsed current Gas Tungsten Arc Welding. The refined microstructure was found in the pulsed current compared to continuous current mode. Microsegregation was not noticed in the weld grain boundary of continuous and pulsed current mode. The pulsed current shows improved mechanical properties compared to the continuous current mode.

The immediate effects of lidocaine iontophoresis using interferential current on pressure sense threshold and tactile sensation.

PubMed

Yoosefinejad, Amin Kordi; Motealleh, Alireza; Abbasnia, Keramatollah

2016-01-01

Iontophoresis is the noninvasive delivery of ions using direct current. The direct current has some disadvantages such as skin burning. Interferential current is a kind of alternating current without limitations of direct current; so the purpose of this study is to investigate and compare the effects of lidocaine, interferential current and lidocaine iontophoresis using interferential current. 30 healthy women aged 20-24 years participated in this randomized clinical trial study. Pressure, tactile and pain thresholds were evaluated before and after the application of treatment methods. Pressure, tactile and pain sensitivity increased significantly after the application of lidocaine alone (p < 0.005) and lidocaine iontophoresis using interferential current (p < 0.0001). Lidocaine iontophoresis using interferential current can increase perception threshold of pain, tactile stimulus and pressure sense more significantly than lidocaine and interferential current alone.

Shadows of Music-Language Interaction on Low Frequency Brain Oscillatory Patterns

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carrus, Elisa; Koelsch, Stefan; Bhattacharya, Joydeep

2011-01-01

Electrophysiological studies investigating similarities between music and language perception have relied exclusively on the signal averaging technique, which does not adequately represent oscillatory aspects of electrical brain activity that are relevant for higher cognition. The current study investigated the patterns of brain oscillations…

When advertising turns "cheeky"!

PubMed

Burkitt, Jennifer A; Saucier, Deborah M; Thomas, Nicole A; Ehresman, Crystal

2006-05-01

Portraits typically exhibit leftward posing biases, with people showing more of their left cheek than their right. The current study investigated posing biases in print advertising to determine whether the product advertised affects the posing bias. As the posing bias may be decreasing over time, we also investigated changes in posing biases over a span of more than 100 years. The current investigation coded 2664 advertisements from two time periods; advertisements were coded for target group of advertisement (men, women, both) and posing bias (rightward, leftward, or central). Unlike other studies that typically observe a leftward posing bias, print advertisements exhibit a rightward posing bias, regardless of time-frame. Thus, print advertisements differ greatly from portraits, which may relate to the purpose of advertisements and the role of attractiveness in advertising.

EVALUATION OF BARRIERS TO THE USE OF RADIATION-CURED COATINGS IN CAN MANUFACTURING

EPA Science Inventory

The report gives results of a study to investigate and identify the technical, educational, and economic barriers to the use and implementation of radiation-cured coatings in can manufacturing. The study is part of an EPA investigation of current industrial use and barriers to th...

[Current quality management situation and administration countermeasure study of enterprises marketing corneal contact lens].

PubMed

Liu, Yungui; Yao, Ying; Shangguan, Shihao; Gu, Qun; Gao, Wuming; Chen, Yaoshui

2014-05-01

Study the current quality management situation of enterprises marketing corneal contact lens via systemic investigations and explore effective administration countermeasures in the future. The quality management indicators of sixty-two corneal contact lens marketing enterprises in Xuhui district of Shanghai were systematically investigated and enterprises of different operation models was compared and analyzed. Wholesale enterprises and retail chain enterprises are apparently better than independent enterprises almost in all facets. Facilitate market accession of corneal contact lens marketing enterprises, encourage the business model of retail chain, enhance supervision of corneal contact lens marketing enterprises, especially independent franchisors.

Probing longitudinal modes evolution of a InGaN green laser diode

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yi-Hsi; Lin, Wei-Chen; Chen, Hong-Zui; Shy, Jow-Tsong; Chui, Hsiang-Chen

2018-06-01

This study aims to investigate the longitudinal mode evolution of a InGaN green laser diode. A spectrometer with a 3-pm resolution was employed to obtain the emission spectra of a green laser diode, at a wavelength of around 520 nm, as a function of applied current and temperature. The spectral behavior of the laser modes with applied current was investigated. Right above the lasing threshold, the green diode laser emitted single longitudinal mode output. With increasing applied current, the number of the longitudinal modes increased. Up to ten lasing modes oscillated within the entire gain profile when the applied currents were tuned to 2.2Ith. Subsequently, a multi-Lorentzian profile model was adopted to analyze the spectra and observe how the modes evolved with temperature and applied current.

Effect of Polya Problem-Solving Model on Senior Secondary School Students' Performance in Current Electricity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Olaniyan, Ademola Olatide; Omosewo, Esther O.; Nwankwo, Levi I.

2015-01-01

This study was designed to investigate the Effect of Polya Problem-Solving Model on Senior School Students' Performance in Current Electricity. It was a quasi experimental study of non- randomized, non equivalent pre-test post-test control group design. Three research questions were answered and corresponding three research hypotheses were tested…

School Library Support of Health Education in China: A Preliminary Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Geoffrey Z.; Zhang, Wuhong

2008-01-01

This preliminary study investigates the current situation of school library support of K-12 health education in China. A survey of 42 school librarians and 115 K-12 teachers from selected schools was conducted to find out their views about school library's role in school health education and their current practice of library use in health…

Parents' Perceptions of Play: A Comparative Study of Spousal Perspectives

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Warash, Barbara G.; Root, Amy E.; Devito Doris, Meghan

2017-01-01

Play is essential for growth and learning during early childhood. However, the current focus on academics in preschool education has resulted in less emphasis placed on play as a learning tool. In the current study, parents' value of play was investigated. Parent gender, child gender, and child age were examined as potential influences on parents'…

Choosing a College Major: Factors that Might Influence the Way Students Make Decisions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, Wei-Chun Vanessa

2009-01-01

This current study investigated Janis and Mann's (1977) Conflict Model of Decision Making. Specifically, Janis and Mann's model was tested to examine decision-making styles (coping patterns) and students who either have already decided or who have yet to decide on their college major. Furthermore, the current study is aimed to expand Janis and…

Current Status of Cadaver Sources in Turkey and a Wake-Up Call for Turkish Anatomists

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gürses, Ilke Ali; Coskun, Osman; Öztürk, Adnan

2018-01-01

Persisting difficulties in body procurement in Turkey led to the acquisition of donated, unclaimed, autopsied, and imported bodies regulated under current legislature. Yet, no study had investigated the extent of the on-going cadaver problem. This study was aimed to outline cadaver sources in anatomy departments and their effectiveness by means of…

Prediction Accuracy: The Role of Feedback in 6th Graders' Recall Predictions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Al-Harthy, Ibrahim S.

2016-01-01

The current study focused on the role of feedback on students' prediction accuracy (calibration). This phenomenon has been widely studied, but questions remain about how best to improve it. In the current investigation, fifty-seven students from sixth grade were randomly assigned to control and experimental groups. Thirty pictures were chosen from…

School Disorder, School Connectedness, and Psychosocial Outcomes: Moderation by a Supportive Figure in the School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hurd, Noelle M.; Hussain, Saida; Bradshaw, Catherine P.

2018-01-01

The current study examined whether students' perceptions of school disorder influenced their psychosocial outcomes directly and indirectly via connectedness to school. The current study also explored moderation by the presence of a supportive figure in the school and investigated gender differences. Participants were 28,104 high school students.…

Investigation Into The Effectiveness of The JLAB High Pressure Rinse System

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

John Mammosser; Timothy Rothgeb; Tong Wang

2003-05-01

As part of a study to reduce field emission in Superconducting radio frequency cavities, an investigation into the effectiveness of the Jefferson Lab's High Pressure Rinse (HPR) system is underway. This paper describes discoveries from this investigation, the procedural changes made during this investigation, current vertical test results and further plans for improvements and monitoring.

Waves plus currents at a right angle: The rippled bed case

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faraci, C.; Foti, E.; Musumeci, R. E.

2008-07-01

The present paper deals with wave plus current flow over a fixed rippled bed. More precisely, modifications of the current profiles due to the superimposition of orthogonal cylindrical waves have been investigated experimentally. Since the experimental setup permitted only the wave dominated regime to be investigated (i.e., the regime where orbital velocity is larger than current velocity), also a numerical k-ɛ turbulence closure model has been developed in order to study a wider range of parameters, thus including the current dominated regime (i.e., where current velocity is larger than wave orbital one). In both cases a different response with respect to the flat bed case has been found. Indeed, in the flat bed case laminar wave boundary layers in a wave dominated regime induce a decrease in bottom shear stresses, while the presence of a rippled bed behaves as a macroroughness, which causes the wave boundary layer to become turbulent and therefore the current velocity near the bottom to be smaller than the one in the case of current only, with a consequent increase in the current bottom roughness.

Emotional Language Used by Victims of Alleged Sexual Abuse During Forensic Investigation.

PubMed

Katz, Carmit; Paddon, Misha Janet; Barnetz, Zion

2016-04-01

Addressing the characteristics of children as witnesses has been a focus of many researchers; however, the emotion derived from children during investigative interviews is an understudied field that is vital for practitioners from various contexts. The current study explores the emotional language that children use during forensic investigations following suspected sexual abuse. The sample comprises 97 investigative interviews with children (N = 97) aged 3-14 years. These interviews were randomly selected from all forensic interviews carried out in Israel in 2011. All of the interviews were conducted in conformity with the National Institute of Child Health and Development Protocol, and the emotional language of the children was coded. The results reveal a limited overall presence of emotional language. Children hardly used positive emotional language and mainly employed negative emotional language. The interview phase and the age of the children greatly affected the use of emotional language, and gender and suspect familiarity had no effect on the children's emotional language. The findings from the current study enhance existing knowledge on the emotional language of children during forensic investigations and highlight the study's unique characteristics in the context of abuse, trauma, and forensic investigation. The results of this study demonstrate the need for including probes about emotions in investigative interviews and the addition of emotional language to coding schemes for investigative interviews.

Vamistor resistor investigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

Results are presented of the failure investigation conducted on resistors produced by the Vamistor Divison, Wagner Electric Corporation. This failure investigation included; failure analyses, chemical and metallurgical analyses, failure mechanism studies, seal leak analyses, and nondestructive stress tests. The data, information, conclusions, and recommendation can be helpful in assessing current usage of these resistors.

The magnetospheric currents - An introduction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Akasofu, S.-I.

1984-01-01

It is pointed out that the scientific discipline concerned with magnetospheric currents has grown out from geomagnetism and, in particular, from geomagnetic storm studies. The International Geophysical Year (IGY) introduced a new area for this discipline by making 'man-made satellites' available for the exploration of space around the earth. In this investigation, a brief description is provided of the magnetospheric currents in terms of eight component current systems. Attention is given to the Sq current, the Chapman-Ferraro current, the ring current (the symmetric component), the current systems driven by the solar wind-magnetosphere dynamo (SMD), the cross-tail current system, the average ionospheric current pattern, an example of an instantaneous current pattern, field-aligned currents, and driving mechanisms and models.

Large Eddy Simulations of sediment entrainment induced by a lock-exchange gravity current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kyrousi, Foteini; Leonardi, A.; Roman, F.; Armenio, V.; Zanello, F.; Zordan, J.; Juez, C.; Falcomer, L.

2018-04-01

Large Eddy simulations of lock-exchange gravity currents propagating over a mobile reach are presented. The numerical setting allows to investigate the sediment pick up induced by the currents and to study the underlying mechanisms leading to sediment entrainment for different Grashof numbers and grain sizes. First, the velocity field and the bed shear-stress distribution are investigated, along with turbulent structures formed in the flow, before the current reaches the mobile bed. Then, during the propagation of the current above the erodible section of the bed the contour plots of the entrained material are presented as well as the time evolution of the areas covered by the current and by the sediment at this section. The numerical outcomes are compared with experimental data showing a very good agreement. Overall, the study confirms that sediment pick up is prevalent at the head of the current where the strongest turbulence occurs. Further, above the mobile reach of the bed, settling process seems to be of minor importance, with the entrained material being advected downstream by the current. Additionally, the study shows that, although shear stress is the main mechanism that sets particles in motion, turbulent bursts as well as vertical velocity fluctuations are also necessary to counteract the falling velocity of the particles and maintain them into suspension. Finally, the analysis of the stability conditions of the current shows that, from one side, sediment concentration gives a negligible contribution to the stability of the front of the current and from the other side, the stability conditions provided by the current do not allow sediments to move into the ambient fluid.

Theoretical and experimental studies of error in square-law detector circuits

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stanley, W. D.; Hearn, C. P.; Williams, J. B.

1984-01-01

Square law detector circuits to determine errors from the ideal input/output characteristic function were investigated. The nonlinear circuit response is analyzed by a power series expansion containing terms through the fourth degree, from which the significant deviation from square law can be predicted. Both fixed bias current and flexible bias current configurations are considered. The latter case corresponds with the situation where the mean current can change with the application of a signal. Experimental investigations of the circuit arrangements are described. Agreement between the analytical models and the experimental results are established. Factors which contribute to differences under certain conditions are outlined.

Assessment of United States and Japanese Athletic Trainers' Satisfaction with Current Ascension Pathways and Interest in Future Transnational Certification

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Presuto, Dax A.

2013-01-01

Background: The purpose of this cross-system and cross-cultural study was to investigate the current athletic training systems in the US and Japan, to assess US and Japanese athletic trainers' satisfaction with current athletic training ascension pathways in their respective country and to determine their interest in future transnational…

NOTE Effects of skeletal muscle anisotropy on induced currents from low-frequency magnetic fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tachas, Nikolaos J.; Samaras, Theodoros; Baskourelos, Konstantinos; Sahalos, John N.

2009-12-01

Studies which take into account the anisotropy of tissue dielectric properties for the numerical assessment of induced currents from low-frequency magnetic fields are scarce. In the present study, we compare the induced currents in two anatomical models, using the impedance method. In the first model, we assume that all tissues have isotropic conductivity, whereas in the second one, we assume anisotropic conductivity for the skeletal muscle. Results show that tissue anisotropy should be taken into account when investigating the exposure to low-frequency magnetic fields, because it leads to higher induced current values.

Intergroup contact throughout the lifespan modulates implicit racial biases across perceivers' racial group.

PubMed

Kubota, Jennifer T; Peiso, Jaelyn; Marcum, Kori; Cloutier, Jasmin

2017-01-01

Few researchers have investigated how contact across the lifespan influences racial bias and whether diversity of contact is beneficial regardless of the race of the perceiver. This research aims to address these gaps in the literature with a focus on how diversity in childhood and current contact shapes implicit racial bias across perceivers' racial group. In two investigations, participants completed an Implicit Association Test and a self-report measure of the racial diversity of their current and childhood contact. In both studies, increased contact with Black compared with White individuals, both in childhood (Study 2) and currently (Studies 1 and 2), was associated with reduced implicit pro-White racial bias. For Black individuals (Study 2) more contact with Black compared with White individuals also was associated with reduced implicit pro-White racial bias. These findings suggest that diversity in contact across the lifespan may be related to reductions in implicit racial biases and that this relationship may generalize across racial groups.

Intergroup contact throughout the lifespan modulates implicit racial biases across perceivers’ racial group

PubMed Central

Peiso, Jaelyn; Marcum, Kori; Cloutier, Jasmin

2017-01-01

Few researchers have investigated how contact across the lifespan influences racial bias and whether diversity of contact is beneficial regardless of the race of the perceiver. This research aims to address these gaps in the literature with a focus on how diversity in childhood and current contact shapes implicit racial bias across perceivers’ racial group. In two investigations, participants completed an Implicit Association Test and a self-report measure of the racial diversity of their current and childhood contact. In both studies, increased contact with Black compared with White individuals, both in childhood (Study 2) and currently (Studies 1 and 2), was associated with reduced implicit pro-White racial bias. For Black individuals (Study 2) more contact with Black compared with White individuals also was associated with reduced implicit pro-White racial bias. These findings suggest that diversity in contact across the lifespan may be related to reductions in implicit racial biases and that this relationship may generalize across racial groups. PMID:28700624

Non-invasive brain stimulation to investigate language production in healthy speakers: A meta-analysis.

PubMed

Klaus, Jana; Schutter, Dennis J L G

2018-06-01

Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) has become a common method to study the interrelations between the brain and language functioning. This meta-analysis examined the efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and direct current stimulation (tDCS) in the study of language production in healthy volunteers. Forty-five effect sizes from 30 studies which investigated the effects of NIBS on picture naming or verbal fluency in healthy participants were meta-analysed. Further sub-analyses investigated potential influences of stimulation type, control, target site, task, online vs. offline application, and current density of the target electrode. Random effects modelling showed a small, but reliable effect of NIBS on language production. Subsequent analyses indicated larger weighted mean effect sizes for TMS as compared to tDCS studies. No statistical differences for the other sub-analyses were observed. We conclude that NIBS is a useful method for neuroscientific studies on language production in healthy volunteers. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Investigating the Place and Meaning of "Physical Education" to Preschool Children: Methodological Lessons from a Research Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McEvilly, Nollaig

2015-01-01

Preschool physical education has not been extensively researched. Furthermore, research in physical activity and physical education rarely seeks young children's perspectives. The current paper focuses on one aspect of a post-structural study concerned with investigating the place and meaning of "physical education" to practitioners and…

Ontogeny of Emotional and Behavioral Problems in a Low-Income, Mexican American Sample

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lin, Betty; Crnic, Keith A.; Luecken, Linda J.; Gonzales, Nancy A.

2017-01-01

Clinically meaningful behavior problems are thought to be present beginning in the early toddler years, yet few studies have investigated correlates of behavior problems assessed before age 2 years. The current study investigated the direct and interactive contributions of early infant and caregiver characteristics thought to play an important…

Using Listener Judgments to Investigate Linguistic Influences on L2 Comprehensibility and Accentedness: A Validation and Generalization Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Saito, Kazuya; Trofimovich, Pavel; Isaacs, Talia

2017-01-01

The current study investigated linguistic influences on comprehensibility (ease of understanding) and accentedness (linguistic nativelikeness) in second language (L2) learners' extemporaneous speech. Target materials included picture narratives from 40 native French speakers of English from different proficiency levels. The narratives were…

Investigating Underlying Components of the ICT Indicators Measurement Scale: The Extended Version

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Akbulut, Yavuz

2009-01-01

This study aimed to investigate the underlying components constituting the extended version of the ICT Indicators Measurement Scale (ICTIMS), which was developed in 2007, and extended in the current study through the addition of 34 items. New items addressing successful ICT integration at education faculties were identified through the examination…

North Dakota Statewide Nursing Study, Phase III. Final Report and Recommendations.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clark, Neil; Smith, David

The process, outcomes, and recommendations resulting from a project to develop a statewide nursing resource planning system are examined. Phase 1 of the project investigated nursing manpower demands for 1984 and 1986, while phase 2 studied the current scope of nursing practice. In addition to summarizing the findings of these investigations,…

A Longitudinal Study of Changes in Marketing Practices at Private Christian Colleges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vander Schee, Brian A.

2009-01-01

This article presents the results of a longitudinal study investigating current marketing practices at selected church-related, private, four-year compared to those in place in 1997. The role that institutional selectivity plays in the use of marketing activities was also investigated. The researcher surveyed the admissions directors or enrollment…

Interhemispheric currents in the ring current region as seen by the Cluster spacecraft

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tenfjord, P.; Ostgaard, N.; Haaland, S.; Laundal, K.; Reistad, J. P.

2013-12-01

The existence of interhemispheric currents has been predicted by several authors, but their extent in the ring current has to our knowledge never been studied systematically by using in-situ measurements. These currents have been suggested to be associated with observed asymmetries of the aurora. We perform a statistical study of current density and direction during ring current crossings using the Cluster spacecraft. We analyse the extent of the interhemispheric field aligned currents for a wide range of solar wind conditions. Direct estimations of equatorial current direction and density are achieved through the curlometer technique. The curlometer technique is based on Ampere's law and requires magnetic field measurements from all four spacecrafts. The use of this method requires careful study of factors that limit the accuracy, such as tetrahedron shape and configuration. This significantly limits our dataset, but is a necessity for accurate current calculations. Our goal is to statistically investigate the occurrence of interhemispheric currents, and determine if there are parameters or magnetospheric states on which the current magnitude and directions depend upon.

International Relations as a Field of Study in the Canadian System of Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Istomina, Kateryna

2015-01-01

The research presents an attempt to investigate the current state of international relations as a field of study in the context of higher education system in Canada. It contains a general overview of the field of study, focusing predominantly on the role and function of the given academic discipline. The scientific investigation covers the issue…

An investigation of rental rates for centralized fleet vehicles.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-01-01

This report details a study to investigate the current rental rate structure used by the Division of Fleet Management (Fleet Management) to charge state agencies for the use of centralized fleet vehicles. The researchers conducted a literature review...

Subminiature eddy current transducers for studying boride coatings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dmitriev, S. F.; Ishkov, A. V.; Malikov, V. N.; Sagalakov, A. M.

2016-07-01

Strengthening of parts and units of machines, increased reliability and longer service life is an important task of modern mechanical engineering. The main objects of study in the work were selected steel 65G and 50HGA, wear-resistant boride coatings ternary system Fe-B-Fe n B which were investigated by scanning electron microscopy and eddy-current nondestructive methods.

Investigating Relationships among Pre-Service Science Teachers' Conceptual Knowledge of Electric Current, Motivational Beliefs and Self-Regulation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Inaltun, Hüseyin; Ates, Salih

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study is to examine relationships among pre-service science teachers' conceptual knowledge of electric current, motivational beliefs, and self-regulation. One hundred and twenty-seven students (female = 107, male = 20) enrolled in the science education program of a public university in Ankara participated the study. A concept…

Influences of Women's Employment on the Gendered Division of Household Labor over the Life Course: Evidence from a 31-Year Panel Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cunningham, Mick

2007-01-01

Drawing on data from a panel study of White women spanning 31 years, the analyses examine the influence of women's employment on the gendered division of household labor. Multiple dimensions of women's employment are investigated, including accumulated employment histories, current employment status, current employment hours, and relative income.…

The Effects of Field Dependent/Field Independent Cognitive Styles and Motivational Styles on Students' Conceptual Understanding about Direct Current Circuits

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karaçam, Sedat; Digilli Baran, Azize

2015-01-01

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of Field Dependent (FD)/Field Independent (FI) cognitive styles and motivational styles on high school students' conceptual understandings about direct current circuit concepts. The participants of this study consisted of 295 high school students (male = 127, female = 168) who were enrolled…

What are interesterified fats and should we be worried about them in our diet?

PubMed

Mills, C E; Hall, W L; Berry, S E E

2017-06-01

Interesterified (IE) fats are used in a wide range of food products and were introduced as a replacement for trans fats, which are known to be detrimental to cardiovascular health. However, the effects of interesterification on metabolism and subsequent effects on cardiovascular health are not understood and previous studies have seldom investigated industrially-relevant IE fats. No legislation currently exists regarding the labelling of IE fats in food products and therefore estimates of average consumption rates in the UK population are currently unavailable. In order to meet the urgent need for a systematic investigation of the health effects of consumer-relevant IE fats, it is essential to estimate current IE fat intakes and to investigate biological mechanisms that might mediate acute and chronic cardiometabolic effects of commercially relevant IE fats.

URBAN STORMWATER INVESTIGATIONS BY THE U. S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Jennings, Marshall E.

1985-01-01

Urban stormwater hydrology studies in the U. S. Geological Survey are currently focused on compilation of national data bases containing flood-peak and short time-interval rainfall, discharge and water-quality information for urban watersheds. Current data bases, updated annually, are nationwide in scope. Supplementing the national data files are published reports of interpretative analyses, a map report and research products including improved instrumentation and deterministic modeling capabilities. New directions of Survey investigations include gaging programs for very small catchments and for stormwater detention facilities.

Current Options for the Treatment of Food Allergy

PubMed Central

Lanser, Bruce J.; Wright, Benjamin L.; Orgel, Kelly A.; Vickery, Brian P.; Fleischer, David M.

2016-01-01

Food allergy is increasing in prevalence; as a result, there is intense focus on developing safe and effective therapies. Current methods of specific immunotherapy include oral, sublingual, and epicutaneous, while nonspecific methods that have been investigated include: Chinese herbal medicine, probiotics, and anti-IgE antibodies. Although some studies have demonstrated efficacy in inducing desensitization, questions regarding safety and the potential for achieving immune tolerance remain. Although some of these therapies demonstrate promise, further investigation is required before their incorporation into routine clinical practice. PMID:26456449

Molecular organization of phospholipid monolayers on the water surface by Maxwell displacement current measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sulaiman, Khaulah; Majid, Wan Haliza Abdul; Muhamad, Muhamad Rasat

2006-02-01

The monolayer of organic molecules at the air-water interface has been studied using the Maxwell displacement current (MDC) technique. The materials used in this study were the biological materials of phosphatidyl ethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidic acids (PA). The configuration of the experimental set-up consists of the metal/air-gap/monolayer/metal coupled with the Langmuir method. This measurement enables the detection of current without destroying the monolayer. The phase transition and molecular orientation of the phospholipid monolayers were investigated using MDC measurement without mechanical contact between electrodes and the materials. Direct evidence of phase transition from gaseous to the polar ordering phase can be obtained across phospholipid monolayers even though at very low surface pressure. Relaxation process of the phospholipid monolayers was investigated by using the step compression on the MDC signals.

Novelties in pharmacological management of cardiopulmonary resuscitation

PubMed Central

Bartos, Jason A.; Yannopoulos, Demetris

2014-01-01

Purpose of review The ultimate goal of cardiopulmonary resuscitation is long-term neurologically intact survival. Despite numerous well designed studies, the medications currently used in advanced cardiac life support have not demonstrated success in this regard. This review describes the novel therapeutics under investigation to improve functional recovery and survival. Recent findings Whereas current medications focus on achieving return of spontaneous circulation and improved hemodynamics, novel therapies currently in development are focused on improving cellular survival and function by preventing metabolic derangement, protecting mitochondria, and preventing cell death caused by cardiac arrest. Improved cardiac and neurologic function and survival benefits have been observed using animal models of cardiopulmonary arrest. Summary Although substantial data have shown benefits using robust animal models, further human studies are necessary to investigate the potential long-term benefits of these therapies. PMID:23995130

Mercury Content of Sediments in East Fork Poplar Creek: Current Assessment and Past Trends

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

Brooks, Scott C.; Eller, Virginia A.; Dickson, Johnbull O.

2017-01-01

This study provided new information on sediment mercury (Hg) and monomethylmercury (MMHg) content and chemistry. The current inventory of Hg in East Fork Poplar Creek (EFPC) bed sediments was estimated to be 334 kg, which represents a ~67% decrease relative to the initial investigations in 1984. MMHg sediment inventory was estimated to be 44.1 g, lower but roughly similar to past estimates. The results support the relevance and potential impacts of other active and planned investigations within the Mercury Remediation Technology Development for Lower East Fork Poplar Creek project (e.g., assessment and control of bank soil inputs, sorbents for Hgmore » and MMHg removal, re-introduction of freshwater clams to EFPC), and identify gaps in current understanding that represent opportunities to understand controlling variables that may inform future technology development studies.« less

Asymmetrical interfacial reactions of Ni/SAC101(NiIn)/Ni solder joint induced by current stressing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Chen-Yi; Chiu, Tsung-Chieh; Lin, Kwang-Lung

2018-03-01

An electric current can asymmetrically trigger either atomic migration or interfacial reactions between a cathode and an anode. The present study investigated the dissolution of metallization and formation of an interfacial intermetallic compound (IMC) in the Cu/Ni/Sn1.0Ag0.1Cu0.02Ni0.05In/Ni/Cu solder joint at various current densities in the order of 103 A/cm2 at temperatures ranging from 100 °C to 150 °C. The polarization behavior of Ni dissolution and IMC formation under current stressing were systematically investigated. The asymmetrical interfacial reactions of the solder joint were found to be greatly influenced by ambient temperature. The dissolution of Ni and its effect on interfacial IMC formation were also discussed.

Investigation of electrodes under flow of a submicrosecond current pulse with linear density up to 3 MA/cm

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

Branitskii, A. V.; Grabovskii, E. V.; Dzhangobegov, V. V.

The states of current-carrying elements at the transmission of megaampere current into load are studied. It is determined that the expansion velocity of plasma generated at the outer surface of cylindrical tubes produced of stainless steel, at flowing through them of submicrosecond current pulses with linear density of 3 MA/cm is 5.5 km/s. The evolution of various modes of instability is analyzed.

Study the Output Characteristics of a 90 kJ Filippove-Type Plasma Focus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadat Kiai, S. M.; Talaei, A.; Adlparvar, S.; Zirak, A.; Elahi, M.; Safarian, A.; Farhangi, S.; Alhooie, S.; Dabirzadeh, A. A.; Khalaj, M. M.; Mahlooji, M. S.; Talaei, M.; KaKaei, S.; Sheibani, S.; Kashani, A.; Zahedi, F.

2010-08-01

The output characteristics of a Filippove-Type plasma focus "Dena" (288 μF, 25 kV, 90 kJ) is numerically investigated by considering the voltage, current, current derivative, and maximum current as a function of capacitor bank energy in the constant Argon gas pressure and compared to the experiment. It is shown that increase on the bank energy leads to the increment on the maximum current and decrement on the pinch time.

Current Status of Infant Mental Health in Day-Care Centres in Japan: An Investigation of Okinawa and Aomori Prefectures

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Takizawa, Tohru; Kondo, Tsuyoshi; Tanaka, Osamu; Wake, Norie; Naka, Kuoichi; Todoriki, Hidemi; Ishizu, Hiroshi

2009-01-01

Grasping both the extent and the actual situation of psychosomatic disorders, neurotic habits and developmental disorders of infancy and childhood is vital for their prevention and for taking appropriate measures to deal with the current situation. The purpose of this study is to explore the current situation of infant mental health in Japanese…

Teaching Math Online: Current Practices in Turkey

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Akdemir, Omur

2011-01-01

Changing nature of student population, developments in technology, and insufficient number of traditional universities have made online courses popular around the globe. This study was designed to investigate the current practices of teaching mathematics online in Turkish Universities through a qualitative inquiry. The snowball sampling method was…

Investigating Meaning in Learning: A Case Study of Adult Developmental Mathematics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Glasser, Tim

2011-01-01

The objective of this article is to investigate meaning and relevance in the context of adult developmental math learning and instruction. In this case study, at the Art Institute of San Francisco, 12 vocational instructors and four math learners are interviewed on their early and current math experiences. During the semi-structured interviews,…

Modality and Task Switching Interactions using Bi-Modal and Bivalent Stimuli

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sandhu, Rajwant; Dyson, Benjamin J.

2013-01-01

Investigations of concurrent task and modality switching effects have to date been studied under conditions of uni-modal stimulus presentation. As such, it is difficult to directly compare resultant task and modality switching effects, as the stimuli afford both tasks on each trial, but only one modality. The current study investigated task and…

Investigation of the Secondary School Students' Images of Scientists

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Akgün, Abuzer

2016-01-01

The overall purpose of this study is to explore secondary school students' images of scientists. In addition to this comprehensive purpose, it is also investigated that if these students' current images of scientists and those in which they see themselves as a scientist in the near future are consistent or not. The study was designed in line with…

Perceptions from Athletic Training Students Involved in an Intentional Peer-Assisted Learning Pedagogy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bates, Dana K.

2016-01-01

Context: Peer-assisted learning (PAL) has been shown to benefit students across educational levels. Current research has investigated perceptions of PAL, postgraduate impact, as well as prevalence. This study investigated athletic training students' perceptions of an intentional PAL pedagogy on both the peer-student and peer-tutor. In this study,…

"My Teacher Helps Me": Assessing Teacher-Child Relationships from the Child's Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

White, Kelley Mayer

2016-01-01

The current study is one of the first to investigate children's perceptions of quality in teacher-child relationships using a narrative measure. It is also one of the first studies to investigate how the child's report is associated with the teacher's report and with an observer's report of quality in teacher-child interactions. Participants…

The Investigation of Posttraumatic Growth's Relationship to Empathy and Hope in Professional Counselors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davis, Feona I.

2017-01-01

This research study explored possible relationships of professional mental health counselors who have experienced a phenomenon called posttraumatic growth (PTG), which is a positive cognitive and emotional change that stems from surviving a traumatic life crisis. The current study aimed to investigate a connection of PTG in professional counselors…

Factors Influencing the Relationship between Sexual Trauma and Risky Sexual Behavior in College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Johnson, Nicole L.; Johnson, Dawn M.

2013-01-01

While the relationship between sexual trauma and risky sexual behavior (RSB) has received much attention, only a handful of studies have investigated the factors that protect victims of sexual trauma from developing this maladaptive pattern of behavior. The current study investigated the protective role of social support, quality and quantity, in…

A Systematic Investigation of Within-Subject and Between-Subject Covariance Structures in Growth Mixture Models

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Junhui

2012-01-01

The current study investigated how between-subject and within-subject variance-covariance structures affected the detection of a finite mixture of unobserved subpopulations and parameter recovery of growth mixture models in the context of linear mixed-effects models. A simulation study was conducted to evaluate the impact of variance-covariance…

The Effect of Multipart Prompts on Children's Testimonies in Sexual Abuse Investigations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Katz, Carmit; Hershkowitz, Irit

2012-01-01

Objective: The current study aimed to explore the frequency and effects of multipart prompts on the testimonies of children who were alleged victims of sexual abuse and were interviewed using the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Investigative Protocol. The effects of the multipart prompts were studied by considering…

On the spreading and instability of gravity current fronts of arbitrary shape

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zgheib, N.; Bonometti, T.; Balachandar, S.

2012-11-01

Experiments, simulations and theoretical analysis were carried out to study the influence of geometry on the spreading of gravity currents. The horizontal spreading of three different intial planforms of initial release were investigated: an extended ellipse, a cross, and a circle. The experiments used a pulley system for a swift nearly instantaneous release. The case of the axisymmetric cylinder compared favorably with earlier simulations. We ran experiments for multiple aspect ratios for all three configurations. Perhaps the most intriguing of the three cases is the ``ellipse,'' which within a short period of release flipped the major and minor axes. This behavior cannot be captured by current theoretical methods (such as the Box Model). These cases have also been investigated using shallow water and direct numerical simulations. Also, in this study, we investigate the possibility of a Rayleigh-Taylor (RT) instability of the radially moving, but decelerating front. We present a simple theoretical framework based on the inviscid Shallow Water Equations. The theoretical results are supplemented and compared to highly resolved three-dimensional simulations with the Boussinesq approximation. Chateaubriand Fellowship - NSF PIRE grant OISE-0968313.

A descriptive study of sexual homicide in Canada: implications for police investigation.

PubMed

Beauregard, Eric; Martineau, Melissa

2013-12-01

Few empirical studies have been conducted that examine the phenomenon of sexual homicide, and among these studies, many have been limited by small sample size. Although interesting and informative, these studies may not be representative of the greater phenomenon of sexual murder and may be subject to sampling bias that could have significant effects on results. The current study aims to provide a descriptive analysis of the largest sample of sexual homicide cases across Canada in the past 62 years. In doing so, the study aims to examine offender and victim characteristics, victim targeting and access, and modus operandi. Findings show that cases of sexual homicide and sexual murderers included in the current study differ in many aspects from the portrait of the sexual murderer and his or her crime depicted in previous studies. The authors' results may prove useful to the police officers responsible for the investigation of these crimes.

TU-EF-204-09: A Preliminary Method of Risk-Informed Optimization of Tube Current Modulation for Dose Reduction in CT

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

Gao, Y; Liu, B; Kalra, M

Purpose: X-rays from CT scans can increase cancer risk to patients. Lifetime Attributable Risk of Cancer Incidence for adult patients has been investigated and shown to decrease as patient age. However, a new risk model shows an increasing risk trend for several radiosensitive organs for middle age patients. This study investigates the feasibility of a general method for optimizing tube current modulation (TCM) functions to minimize risk by reducing radiation dose to radiosensitive organs of patients. Methods: Organ-based TCM has been investigated in literature for eye lens dose and breast dose. Adopting the concept in organ-based TCM, this study seeksmore » to find an optimized tube current for minimal total risk to breasts and lungs by reducing dose to these organs. The contributions of each CT view to organ dose are determined through simulations of CT scan view-by-view using a GPU-based fast Monte Carlo code, ARCHER. A Linear Programming problem is established for tube current optimization, with Monte Carlo results as weighting factors at each view. A pre-determined dose is used as upper dose boundary, and tube current of each view is optimized to minimize the total risk. Results: An optimized tube current is found to minimize the total risk of lungs and breasts: compared to fixed current, the risk is reduced by 13%, with breast dose reduced by 38% and lung dose reduced by 7%. The average tube current is maintained during optimization to maintain image quality. In addition, dose to other organs in chest region is slightly affected, with relative change in dose smaller than 10%. Conclusion: Optimized tube current plans can be generated to minimize cancer risk to lungs and breasts while maintaining image quality. In the future, various risk models and greater number of projections per rotation will be simulated on phantoms of different gender and age. National Institutes of Health R01EB015478.« less

Magnon cotunneling through a quantum dot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karwacki, Łukasz

2017-11-01

I consider a single-level quantum dot coupled to two reservoirs of spin waves (magnons). Such systems have been studied recently from the point of view of possible coupling between electronic and magnonic spin currents. However, usually weakly coupled systems were investigated. When coupling between the dot and reservoirs is not weak, then higher order processes play a role and have to be included. Here I consider cotunneling of magnons through a spin-occupied quantum dot, which can be understood as a magnon (spin) leakage current in analogy to leakage currents in charge-based electronics. Particular emphasis has been put on investigating the effect of magnetic field and temperature difference between the magnonic reservoirs.

Investigation of Pre-Service Teachers' Opinions about Science in Terms of the Basic Elements of the Education Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sengul, Ozge Aydin

2016-01-01

The purpose of the current study is to investigate the pre-service teachers' opinions about science within the context of the basic elements of the education program, such as objectives, content, learning-teaching process and evaluation. The study was designed as a case study, one of the qualitative research methods. The participants of the study…

Study on the mechanism of Si-glass-Si two step anodic bonding process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Lifang; Wang, Hao; Xue, Yongzhi; Shi, Fangrong; Chen, Shaoping

2018-04-01

Si-glass-Si was successfully bonded together through a two-step anodic bonding process. The bonding current in each step of the two-step bonding process was investigated, and found to be quite different. The first bonding current decreased quickly to a relatively small value, but for the second bonding step, there were two current peaks; the current first decreased, then increased, and then decreased again. The second current peak occurred earlier with higher temperature and voltage. The two-step anodic bonding process was investigated in terms of bonding current. SEM and EDS tests were conducted to investigate the interfacial structure of the Si-glass-Si samples. The two bonding interfaces were almost the same, but after an etching process, transitional layers could be found in the bonding interface and a deeper trench with a thickness of ~1.5 µm could be found in the second bonding interface. Atomic force microscopy mapping results indicated that sodium precipitated from the back of the glass, which makes the roughness of the surface become coarse. Tensile tests indicated that the fracture occurred at the glass substrate and that the bonding strength increased with the increment of bonding temperature and voltage with the maximum strength of 6.4 MPa.

Specific characteristics of negative corona currents generated in short point-plane gap

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

Li, Zhen; Zhang, Bo; He, Jinliang

The Trichel pulse is a typical kind of negative corona current observed in electronegative gases with a highly regular form. The characteristics of the Trichel pulse, such as the repetition frequency, the amplitude of each pulse, and the mean current, are dependent on different discharge conditions. Quite many scholars have studied the mean current and the current-voltage characteristic of Trichel pulses, yet the specific characteristics of the pulses have barely been investigated. In this paper, a series of experiments were carried out in a short point-to-plane discharge gap to investigate the detailed characteristics of Trichel pulses. After numerical fitting ofmore » the experiment results was performed, a new set of empirical formulas were derived to predict the specific characteristics of the negative corona current under different conditions. Different from existing literature, this paper uses as variables the average electric field intensity and the corona inception field intensity which is independent of the gap spacing in the empirical formulas. In the experiments, an inverse correlation between amplitude and repetition frequency of the pulses was observed. Based on the investigation of the remaining space charge in the discharge gap, this correlation is theoretically proved to be caused by the influence of space charges.« less

The Impact of Multiple Intelligences-Based Instruction on Developing Speaking Skills of the Pre-Service Teachers of English

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salem, Ashraf Atta M. S.

2013-01-01

The current study investigates the impact of multiple intelligences-based Instruction on developing speaking skills of the pre-service teachers of English. Therefore, the problem of the current study can be stated in the lack of speaking skills of the pre-service teachers of English in Hurgada faculty of Education, South Valley University. To…

Benefits, Challenges, and Perceptions of the Multiple Article Dissertation Format in Instructional Technology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thomas, Rebecca Arlene; West, Richard E.; Rich, Peter

2016-01-01

This study used survey data to investigate the benefits, challenges, perceptions, and current practices of the multiple article dissertation format in instructional technology. Online surveys were sent to current students, alumni, faculty, and department representatives of instructional technology programs, and data were analysed using qualitative…

The Current State of Marketing Activity among Higher Education Institutions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Newman, Cynthia M.

2002-01-01

Investigated the current state of marketing, marketing research, and planning practices at four-year higher education institutions. Builds upon previous studies by Blackburn (1979) and Goldgehn (1982 and 1989). Determined whether the use and apparent understanding of marketing and its attendant activities by admissions and enrollment management…

Factors behind Classroom Participation of Secondary School Students (A Gender Based Analysis)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Aziz, Fakhra; Quraishi, Uzma; Kazi, Asma Shahid

2018-01-01

It is evidence based conclusion that students' classroom participation makes them more motivated, supports their learning, improves their communication and promotes higher order thinking skills. The current study was an intention to investigate the current level of secondary school students' classroom participation and to identify the underlying…

Negotiating towards a Next Turn: Phonetic Resources for "Doing the Same"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sikveland, Rein Ove

2012-01-01

This paper investigates hearers' use of response tokens (back-channels), in maintaining and differentiating their actions. Initial observations suggest that hearers produce a sequence of phonetically similar responses to disengage from the current topic, and dissimilar responses to engage with the current topic. This is studied systematically by…

Learning from Fellow Engineering Students Who Have Current Professional Experience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davies, John W.; Rutherford, Ursula

2012-01-01

This paper presents an investigation of how experience-led content in an engineering degree can be strengthened by creating opportunities for engineering students to benefit from the knowledge, skills and resources of students with current professional experience. Students who study civil engineering part-time at Coventry University (while also…

A Student-Centered Perspective of Technology for Learning at California Community Colleges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Regalado, Maria Carmen

2010-01-01

This study investigates how community college students' current levels of computer technology competence, confidence and attitudes toward technology in learning at a community college are affected by current access to technology and by demographic characteristics as well as by past experiences with computer technology. The research questions…

Expected Consequences of Disclosure Revealed in Investigative Interviews with Suspected Victims of Child Sexual Abuse

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Malloy, Lindsay C.; Brubacher, Sonja P.; Lamb, Michael E.

2011-01-01

The current study explored the expected consequences of disclosure discussed by 204 5- to 13-year-old suspected victims of child sexual abuse during the course of investigative interviews conducted using the NICHD Investigative Interview Protocol. Expected consequences were mentioned in nearly half of all interviews, with older children and those…

Is Animal Cruelty a "Red Flag" for Family Violence? Investigating Co-Occurring Violence toward Children, Partners, and Pets

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DeGue, Sarah; DiLillo, David

2009-01-01

Cross-reporting legislation, which permits child and animal welfare investigators to refer families with substantiated child maltreatment or animal cruelty for investigation by parallel agencies, has recently been adopted in several U.S. jurisdictions. The current study sheds light on the underlying assumption of these policies--that animal…

Core Self-Evaluations, Worry, Life Satisfaction, and Psychological Well-Being: An Investigation in the Asian Context

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rathi, Neerpal; Lee, Kidong

2018-01-01

The concept of core self-evaluations has been extensively investigated in Western and European countries, nonetheless its implications in Asian countries remains relatively unexplored. To void this gap, the current study investigated the association of core self-evaluations with worry, life satisfaction, and psychological well-being among South…

Seniors Falls Investigative Methodology (SFIM): A Systems Approach to the Study of Falls in Seniors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zecevic, Aleksandra A.; Salmoni, Alan W.; Lewko, John H.; Vandervoort, Anthony A.

2007-01-01

An in-depth understanding of human factors and human error is lacking in current research on seniors' falls. Additional knowledge is needed to understand why seniors are falling. The purpose of this article is to describe the adapting of the Integrated Safety Investigation Methodology (ISIM) (used for investigating transportation and industrial…

Dynamics of Internal Tides Over a Shallow Ridge Investigated With a High-Resolution Downscaling Regional Ocean Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Masunaga, Eiji; Uchiyama, Yusuke; Suzue, Yota; Yamazaki, Hidekatsu

2018-04-01

This study investigates the dynamics of tidally induced internal waves over a shallow ridge, the Izu-Ogasawara Ridge off the Japanese mainland, using a downscaled high-resolution regional ocean numerical model. Both the Kuroshio and tides contribute to the field of currents in the study area. The model results show strong internal tidal energy fluxes over the ridge, exceeding 3.5 kW m-1, which are higher than the fluxes along the Japanese mainland. The flux in the upstream side of the Kuroshio is enhanced by an interaction of internal waves and currents. The tidal forcing induces 92% of the total internal wave energy flux, exhibiting the considerable dominance of tides in internal waves. The tidal forcing enhances the kinetic energy, particularly in the northern area of the ridge where the Kuroshio Current is not a direct influence. The tidal forcing contributes to roughly 30% of the total kinetic energy in the study area.

Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Local Scour Around Submarine Piggyback Pipeline Under Steady Current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Enjin; Shi, Bing; Qu, Ke; Dong, Wenbin; Zhang, Jing

2018-04-01

As a new type of submarine pipeline, the piggyback pipeline has been gradually adopted in engineering practice to enhance the performance and safety of submarine pipelines. However, limited simulation work and few experimental studies have been published on the scour around the piggyback pipeline under steady current. This study numerically and experimentally investigates the local scour of the piggyback pipe under steady current. The influence of prominent factors such as pipe diameter, inflow Reynolds number, and gap between the main and small pipes, on the maximum scour depth have been examined and discussed in detail. Furthermore, one formula to predict the maximum scour depth under the piggyback pipeline has been derived based on the theoretical analysis of scour equilibrium. The feasibility of the proposed formula has been effectively calibrated by both experimental data and numerical results. The findings drawn from this study are instructive in the future design and application of the piggyback pipeline.

Welfare recipients’ involvement with child protective services after welfare reform

PubMed Central

Nam, Yunju; Meezan, William; Danziger, Sandra K.

2007-01-01

Objective This study identifies factors associated with child protective services (CPS) involvement among current and former welfare recipients after welfare reform legislation was passed in the US in 1996. Method Data come from the Women’s Employment Study, a longitudinal study of randomly selected welfare recipients living in a Michigan city in 1997 (N = 541). In order to identify risk factors for CPS involvement among current and former welfare recipients, multinomial logit analyses with 29 independent variables were employed on a trichotomous dependent variable: no CPS involvement, investigation only, and supervision by CPS after investigation. Results The relationship between work and involvement with CPS differs by work experience prior to welfare reform. As the percentage of months working after welfare reform increased, the risk of being investigated by CPS declined among those with prior work experience but the risk increased among those without prior work experience. However, work variables were not significant predictors of supervision by CPS after an initial investigation. Further, race, cohabitation, childhood welfare receipt, having a learning disability, having a large number of children, being newly divorced, living in a high problem neighborhood, and being convicted of a crime were associated with one’s probability of being either investigated or supervised by CPS. Conclusions These findings suggest that employment could have increased the stress levels of current or former welfare recipients without prior work experience to the point where they were prone to minor child rearing mistakes that resulted in a CPS investigation, but were not severe enough to warrant opening the case for supervision. Supports should be provided to welfare mothers who are prone to involvement with CPS; expansions in the childcare subsidy and a reduction or delay in work requirements might also help these families. PMID:17116329

Welfare recipients' involvement with child protective services after welfare reform.

PubMed

Nam, Yunju; Meezan, William; Danziger, Sandra K

2006-11-01

This study identifies factors associated with child protective services (CPS) involvement among current and former welfare recipients after welfare reform legislation was passed in the US in 1996. Data come from the Women's Employment Study, a longitudinal study of randomly selected welfare recipients living in a Michigan city in 1997 (N=541). In order to identify risk factors for CPS involvement among current and former welfare recipients, multinomial logit analyses with 29 independent variables were employed on a trichotomous dependent variable: no CPS involvement, investigation only, and supervision by CPS after investigation. The relationship between work and involvement with CPS differs by work experience prior to welfare reform. As the percentage of months working after welfare reform increased, the risk of being investigated by CPS declined among those with prior work experience but the risk increased among those without prior work experience. However, work variables were not significant predictors of supervision by CPS after an initial investigation. Further, race, cohabitation, childhood welfare receipt, having a learning disability, having a large number of children, being newly divorced, living in a high problem neighborhood, and being convicted of a crime were associated with one's probability of being either investigated or supervised by CPS. These findings suggest that employment could have increased the stress levels of current or former welfare recipients without prior work experience to the point where they were prone to minor child rearing mistakes that resulted in a CPS investigation, but were not severe enough to warrant opening the case for supervision. Supports should be provided to welfare mothers who are prone to involvement with CPS; expansions in the childcare subsidy and a reduction or delay in work requirements might also help these families.

The medico-legal investigation of sudden, unexpected and/or unexplained infant deaths in South Africa: where are we--and where are we going?

PubMed

du Toit-Prinsloo, L; Dempers, J J; Wadee, S A; Saayman, G

2011-03-01

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) has been reported to be the leading cause of death in infants under 1 year of age in many countries. Unfortunately, a paucity of published research data exists in South Africa, with regard to the incidence of and investigation into the circumstances surrounding Sudden Unexplained Deaths in Infants (SUDI) and/or SIDS. Currently, even though most academic centers conform to a protocol consistent with internationally accepted standards, there exists no nationally accepted infant death investigation protocol in South Africa. It is the aim of this study to review the current practice of infant death investigation in two representative but geographically and demographically distinct centers. Retrospective case audit over a five-year period (2000-2004) was conducted at two large medico-legal mortuaries in Pretoria (Gauteng) and Tygerberg (Cape Town). Case files on all infants younger than 1 year of age were reviewed. The outcome measures included number of deaths, demographic details and the nature and final outcome of the post mortem examinations. A total of 512 cases were identified as possible SIDS cases and of these, 171 was classified as SIDS. The study showed marked inter-case and inter-divisional variation in terms of the investigation of infant deaths at the two institutions. It is envisaged that this study will focus attention on the current lack of usable data regarding sudden/unexplained/unexpected infant deaths in South Africa, and aid in the formulation and implementation of a practical (yet internationally accountable) infant death investigation protocol, which could facilitate comparisons with other countries and initiate further structured research in this field.

CdS-metal contact at higher current densities.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stirn, R. J.; Boeer, K. W.; Dussel, G. A.

1973-01-01

An investigation is conducted concerning the mechanisms by which a steady flow of current proceeds through the contact when an external voltage is applied. The main characteristics of current mechanisms are examined, giving attention to photoemission from the cathode, thermionic emission, minority-carrier extraction, and the tunneling of electrons. A high-field domain analysis is conducted together with experimental studies. Particular attention is given to the range in which tunneling predominates.

Experiment to investigate current drive by fast Alfven waves in a small tokamak

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

Gahl, J.; Ishihara, O.; Wong, K.

1985-07-01

An experiment has been carried out to study current generation by Doppler shifted cyclotron resonance heating of minority ions with a unidirectional wave in the small tokamak at Texas Tech University. One of the objectives of the experiment is to understand in detail the wave-particle interactions through which fast (compressional) Alfven waves in the ion cyclotron range of frequencies drive currents in toroidal devices.

A study on the influence of corona on currents and electromagnetic fields predicted by a nonlinear lightning return-stroke model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

De Conti, Alberto; Silveira, Fernando H.; Visacro, Silvério

2014-05-01

This paper investigates the influence of corona on currents and electromagnetic fields predicted by a return-stroke model that represents the lightning channel as a nonuniform transmission line with time-varying (nonlinear) resistance. The corona model used in this paper allows the calculation of corona currents as a function of the radial electric field in the vicinity of the channel. A parametric study is presented to investigate the influence of corona parameters, such as the breakdown electric field and the critical electric field for the stable propagation of streamers, on predicted currents and electromagnetic fields. The results show that, regardless of the assumed corona parameters, the incorporation of corona into the nonuniform and nonlinear transmission line model under investigation modifies the model predictions so that they consistently reproduce most of the typical features of experimentally observed lightning electromagnetic fields and return-stroke speed profiles. In particular, it is shown that the proposed model leads to close vertical electric fields presenting waveforms, amplitudes, and decay with distance in good agreement with dart leader electric field changes measured in triggered lightning experiments. A comparison with popular engineering return-stroke models further confirms the model's ability to predict consistent electric field waveforms in the close vicinity of the channel. Some differences observed in the field amplitudes calculated with the different models can be related to the fact that current distortion, while present in the proposed model, is ultimately neglected in the considered engineering return-stroke models.

In vitro exposure to 0.57-MHz electric currents exerts cytostatic effects in HepG2 human hepatocarcinoma cells.

PubMed

Hernández-Bule, María Luisa; Trillo, María Angeles; Cid, María Antonia; Leal, Jocelyne; Ubeda, Alejandro

2007-03-01

Capacitive-resistive electric transfer (CRET) therapy is a non-invasive technique currently applied to the treatment of skin, muscle and tendon injuries that uses 0.45-0.6 MHz electric currents to transdermically and focally increase the internal temperature of targeted tissues. Because CRET electrothermal treatment has been reported to be more effective than other thermal therapies, it has been proposed that the electric stimulus could induce responses in exposed tissues that are cooperative or synergic with the thermal effects of the treatment. Previous studies by our group, investigating the nature of the alleged electric response, have shown that short, repeated stimuli with 0.57-MHz currents at subthermal levels could provoke partial, cytotoxic effects on human neuroblastoma cells in vitro. The aim of the present study was to investigate the response from another human cell type, the human hepatocarcinoma HepG2 line, during and after the exposure to 0.57-MHz CRET currents at subthermal densities. The electric stimuli provoked a decrease in the proliferation rate of the cultures, possibly due to an electrically-induced blocking of the cell cycle in a fraction of the cellular population.

Current sheath behavior and its velocity enhancement in a low energy Mather-type plasma focus device

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

Aghamir, F. M.; Behbahani, R. A.

The dynamics of the plasma sheath layer and its velocity enhancement have been studied in a low energy (4.9 kJ) Mather-type plasma focus device. Experiments were performed to study the effect of the Lorentz force variation on the current sheath expansion and movement, as well as the existence of traction between all parts of the sheath layer. Two different shape of anodes (cylindrical and step) along with an axial magnetic probe were used to investigate the effects of various experimental conditions, namely different charging voltages and gas pressures. In order to explore the upper limit of the current sheath velocity,more » a comparison has been made between the experimental data gathered by the probe and the Lee's computational model. The limitations governing the enhancement of the current sheath velocity that can lead to the deterioration of a good focusing phenomenon were also investigated. The increase of the current sheath velocity due to the usage of the step anode on ion generation and hard x-ray emissions have been demonstrated by means of an ion collector and a hard x-ray detector.« less

Fundamental Study of Tank with MgB2 Level Sensor for Transportation of Liquid Hydrogen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maekawa, Kazuma; Takeda, Minoru; Matsuno, Yu; Fujikawa, Shizuichi; Kuroda, Tsuneo; Kumakura, Hiroaki

We are currently developing an external-heating-type superconducting magnesium diboride (MgB2) level sensor for a liquid hydrogen (LH2) tank. The aim of this study is to investigate the measuring current dependence of the level-detecting characteristics of the MgB2 level sensor for LH2 under a static condition which has not yet been clarified. It was found that the linear correlation coefficient was 0.99 or more, indicating high linearity, regardless of the measuring current at heater inputs of 3 W and 6 W. Moreover, there was no effect of self-heating by the measuring current and it was found that a current of up to 100 mA can be used.

Experimental and Numerical Investigations of Floating Breakwater Performance.

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Floating breakwaters are commonly used to protect small marinas and for shoreline erosion control in coastal areas. They are efficient wave attenuation structures for relatively short waves and shallow water depths. The main objective of the current study is to investigate the hydrodynamic interacti...

The investigation of the cellular electrophysiological and antiarrhythmic effects of a novel selective sodium-calcium exchanger inhibitor, GYKB-6635, in canine and guinea-pig hearts.

PubMed

Geramipour, Amir; Kohajda, Zsófia; Corici, Claudia; Prorok, János; Szakonyi, Zsolt; Oravecz, Kinga; Márton, Zoltán; Nagy, Norbert; Tóth, András; Acsai, Károly; Virág, László; Varró, András; Jost, Norbert

2016-10-01

The sodium-calcium exchanger (NCX) is considered as the major transmembrane transport mechanism that controls Ca 2+ homeostasis. Its contribution to the cardiac repolarization has not yet been directly studied due to lack of specific inhibitors, so that an urgent need for more selective compounds. In this study, the electrophysiological effects of GYKB-6635, a novel NCX inhibitor, on the NCX, L-type calcium, and main repolarizing potassium currents as well as action potential (AP) parameters were investigated. Ion currents and AP recordings were investigated by applying the whole-cell patch clamp and standard microelectrode techniques in canine heart at 37 °C. Effects of GYKB-6635 were studied in ouabain-induced arrhythmias in isolated guinea-pig hearts. At a concentration of 1 μmol/L, GYKB significantly reduced both the inward and outward NCX currents (57% and 58%, respectively). Even at a high concentration (10 μmol/L), GYKB-6635 did not change the I CaL , the maximum rate of depolarization (dV/dt max ), the main repolarizing K + currents, and the main AP parameters. GYKB-6635 pre-treatment significantly delayed the time to the development of ventricular fibrillation (by about 18%). It is concluded that GYKB-6635 is a potent and highly selective inhibitor of the cardiac NCX and, in addition, it is suggested to also contribute to the prevention of DAD-based arrhythmias.

Comparative effectiveness research methodology using secondary data: A starting user's guide.

PubMed

Sun, Maxine; Lipsitz, Stuart R

2018-04-01

The use of secondary data, such as claims or administrative data, in comparative effectiveness research has grown tremendously in recent years. We believe that the current review can help investigators relying on secondary data to (1) gain insight into both the methodologies and statistical methods, (2) better understand the necessity of a rigorous planning before initiating a comparative effectiveness investigation, and (3) optimize the quality of their investigations. Specifically, we review concepts of adjusted analyses and confounders, methods of propensity score analyses, and instrumental variable analyses, risk prediction models (logistic and time-to-event), decision-curve analysis, as well as the interpretation of the P value and hypothesis testing. Overall, we hope that the current review article can help research investigators relying on secondary data to perform comparative effectiveness research better understand the necessity of a rigorous planning before study start, and gain better insight in the choice of statistical methods so as to optimize the quality of the research study. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

[A SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis of the current immunization program in Zhejiang Province].

PubMed

He, Han-Qing; Ling, Luo-Ya; Xu, Xu-Qing

2009-02-01

To know the status of Immunization program in Zhejiang Province. The investigation on immunization program in zhejiang province was conducted, and the SWOT analysis was corducted to make a comprehensive evaluation. 11 cities, 22 counties and 44 towns were investigated in this study, and the current immunization program in Zhejiang province were explored by SWOT analysis. The SWOT Matrix, includes SO (strength-opportunity), ST (strength-threat), WO (weakness-opportunity) and WT (weakness-threat) can apply to make optimal strategy for the development of expanded program on immunization.

A Planar Hall Thruster for Investigating Electron Mobility in ExB Devices (Preprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-08-24

Hall thruster that emits and collects the Hall current across a planar discharge channel is described. The planar Hall thruster (PHT) is being investigated for use as a test bed to study electron mobility in ExB devices. The planar geometry attempts to de-couple the complex electron motion found in annular thrusters by using simplified geometry. During this initial test, the PHT was operated at discharge voltages between 50-150 V to verify operability and stability of the device. Hall current was emitted by hollow cathode electron sources and

MREIT experiments with 200 µA injected currents: a feasibility study using two reconstruction algorithms, SMM and harmonic B(Z).

PubMed

Arpinar, V E; Hamamura, M J; Degirmenci, E; Muftuler, L T

2012-07-07

Magnetic resonance electrical impedance tomography (MREIT) is a technique that produces images of conductivity in tissues and phantoms. In this technique, electrical currents are applied to an object and the resulting magnetic flux density is measured using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the conductivity distribution is reconstructed using these MRI data. Currently, the technique is used in research environments, primarily studying phantoms and animals. In order to translate MREIT to clinical applications, strict safety standards need to be established, especially for safe current limits. However, there are currently no standards for safe current limits specific to MREIT. Until such standards are established, human MREIT applications need to conform to existing electrical safety standards in medical instrumentation, such as IEC601. This protocol limits patient auxiliary currents to 100 µA for low frequencies. However, published MREIT studies have utilized currents 10-400 times larger than this limit, bringing into question whether the clinical applications of MREIT are attainable under current standards. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of MREIT to accurately reconstruct the relative conductivity of a simple agarose phantom using 200 µA total injected current and tested the performance of two MREIT reconstruction algorithms. These reconstruction algorithms used are the iterative sensitivity matrix method (SMM) by Ider and Birgul (1998 Elektrik 6 215-25) with Tikhonov regularization and the harmonic B(Z) proposed by Oh et al (2003 Magn. Reason. Med. 50 875-8). The reconstruction techniques were tested at both 200 µA and 5 mA injected currents to investigate their noise sensitivity at low and high current conditions. It should be noted that 200 µA total injected current into a cylindrical phantom generates only 14.7 µA current in imaging slice. Similarly, 5 mA total injected current results in 367 µA in imaging slice. Total acquisition time for 200 µA and 5 mA experiments was about 1 h and 8.5 min, respectively. The results demonstrate that conductivity imaging is possible at low currents using the suggested imaging parameters and reconstructing the images using iterative SMM with Tikhonov regularization, which appears to be more tolerant to noisy data than harmonic B(Z).

No Perceptual Reorganization for Limburgian Tones? A Cross-Linguistic Investigation with 6- to 12-Month-Old Infants

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ramachers, Stefanie; Brouwer, Susanne; Fikkert, Paula

2018-01-01

Despite the fact that many of the world's languages use lexical tone, the majority of language acquisition studies has focused on non-tone languages. Research on tone languages has typically investigated wellknown tone languages such as Mandarin and Cantonese Chinese. The current study looked at a Limburgian dialect of Dutch that uses lexical…

Investigating GM Risk Perceptions: A Survey of Anti-GM and Environmental Campaign Group Members

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hall, Clare; Moran, Dominic

2006-01-01

This study investigates how members of anti-GM campaign groups and environment groups perceive the risks and benefits of genetically modified (GM) technology in food and agriculture. The study targeted these groups as the most risk-averse sector of society when considering GM technology. Survey respondents were asked to rank the current and future…

Turkish Prospective Middle School Mathematics Teachers' Beliefs and Perceived Self-Efficacy Beliefs Regarding the Use of Origami in Mathematics Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arslan, Okan; Isiksal-Bostan, Mine

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate beliefs and perceived self-efficacy beliefs of Turkish prospective elementary mathematics teachers in using origami in mathematics education. Furthermore, gender differences in their beliefs and perceived self-efficacy beliefs were investigated. Data for the current study was collected via Origami in…

Age Related Differences of Executive Functioning Problems in Everyday Life of Children and Adolescents in the Autism Spectrum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

van den Bergh, Sanne F. W. M.; Scheeren, Anke M.; Begeer, Sander; Koot, Hans M.; Geurts, Hilde M.

2014-01-01

Numerous studies investigated executive functioning (EF) problems in people with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) using laboratory EF tasks. As laboratory task performances often differ from real life observations, the current study focused on EF in everyday life of 118 children and adolescents with ASD (6-18 years). We investigated age-related and…

Middle Atmosphere Electrodynamics During a Thunderstorm

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Croskey, Charles L.

1996-01-01

Rocket-based instrumentation investigations of middle atmospheric electrodynamics during thunderstorms were conducted in coordination with balloon-measurements at Wallops Island, Virginia. Middle atmosphere electrodynamics and energy coupling are of particular importance to associated electrical processes at lower and higher altitudes. Objectives of this research effort included: (1) investigation of thunderstorm effects on middle atmosphere electrical structure, including spatial and temporal dependence; (2) characterization of electric field transients and the associated energy deposited at various altitudes; (3) evaluation of the vertical Maxwell current density over a thunderstorm to study the coupling of energy to higher altitudes; and (4) investigation of the coupling of energy to the ionosphere and the current supplied to the 'global circuit.'

Further steps toward direct magnetic resonance (MR) imaging detection of neural action currents: optimization of MR sensitivity to transient and weak currents in a conductor.

PubMed

Pell, Gaby S; Abbott, David F; Fleming, Steven W; Prichard, James W; Jackson, Graeme D

2006-05-01

The characteristics of an MRI technique that could be used for direct detection of neuronal activity are investigated. It was shown that magnitude imaging using echo planar imaging can detect transient local currents. The sensitivity of this method was thoroughly investigated. A partial k-space EPI acquisition with homodyne reconstruction was found to increase the signal change. A unique sensitivity to the position of the current pulse within the imaging sequence was demonstrated with the greatest signal change occurring when the current pulse coincides with the acquisition of the center lines of k-space. The signal change was shown to be highly sensitive to the spatial position of the current conductor relative to the voxel. Furthermore, with the use of optimization of spatial and temporal placement of the current pulse, the level of signal change obtained at this lower limit of current detectability was considerably magnified. It was possible to detect a current of 1.7 microA applied for 20 ms with an imaging time of 1.8 min. The level of sensitivity observed in our study brings us closer to that theoretically required for the detection of action currents in nerves. Copyright (c) 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Satellite Ocean Data Tools in the high school classroom.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tweedie, M.; Snyder, H. D.

2007-12-01

The NASA-sponsored Ocean Motion website (http://www.oceanmotion.org) documents the story of humankind's interest in and observations of surface currents from the early seafaring Polynesians to present day satellite observations. Ocean surface current patterns impact our lives through their influences on the weather, climate, commerce, natural disasters and sea life. The Ocean Motion web site provides inquiry based, classroom ready materials for high school teachers and students to study ocean surface currents. In addition to the information resources posted on the website, there are also investigations that lead students to explore patterns and relationships through data products (color- coded map images, time series graphs and data tables). These investigations are done through an interactive browser interface that provides access to a wealth of oceanography data. This presentation focuses on use of surface current data and models in student investigations to illustrate application of basic science principles found in high school science curriculum. Skills developed using data to discover patterns and relationships will serve students in other courses as well as empower them to become stewards of the Earths environment.

REVIEW ARTICLE: Current trends and future requirements for the mass spectrometric investigation of microbial, mammalian and plant metabolomes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dunn, Warwick B.

2008-03-01

The functional levels of biological cells or organisms can be separated into the genome, transcriptome, proteome and metabolome. Of these the metabolome offers specific advantages to the investigation of the phenotype of biological systems. The investigation of the metabolome (metabolomics) has only recently appeared as a mainstream scientific discipline and is currently developing rapidly for the study of microbial, plant and mammalian metabolomes. The metabolome pipeline or workflow encompasses the processes of sample collection and preparation, collection of analytical data, raw data pre-processing, data analysis and data storage. Of these processes the collection of analytical data will be discussed in this review with specific interest shown in the application of mass spectrometry in the metabolomics pipeline. The current developments in mass spectrometry platforms (GC-MS, LC-MS, DIMS and imaging MS) and applications of specific interest will be highlighted. The current limitations of these platforms and applications will be discussed with areas requiring further development also highlighted. These include the detectable coverage of the metabolome, the identification of metabolites and the process of converting raw data to biological knowledge.

Preparation and study of Titanium Nitride films by reactive sputtering and an investigation of target poisoning during the process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aziz, Tareque; Rumaiz, Abdul

Titanium Nitride (TiNx) thin films were prepared by reactive dc sputtering in presence of Ar-N2 plasma. The thin films were grown on Quartz and pure Si surfaces. The Ar-N2 content ratio was gradually varied while the substrate and the Titanium target were kept at room temperature. Structural properties, optical and electrical properties of the thin films were studied by using X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and XRD and 4 probe resistivity measurement. Target poisoning of the Ti target was also studied by varying reactive gas concentration and measuring the target current. A study of target current vs growth rate of the films was performed to investigate the onset of ``poison'' mode.Although there was an insignificant drop in plasma current, we noticed a drop in the deposition rate. This result was tested against Monte Carlo simulations using SRIM simulations. Effects of annealing on the crystallinity and the sheet resistance will also be discussed. The work has been supported by BSA,DOE.

Investigation of Unsteady Flow Interaction Between an Ultra-Compact Inlet and a Transonic Fan

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hah, Chunill; Rabe, Douglas; Scribben, Angie

2015-01-01

In the present study, unsteady flow interaction between an ultra-compact inlet and a transonic fan stage is investigated. Future combat aircraft require ultra-compact inlet ducts as part of an integrated, advanced propulsion system to improve air vehicle capability and effectiveness to meet future mission needs. The main purpose of the study is to advance the current understanding of the flow interaction between two different ultra-compact inlets and a transonic fan for future design applications. Both URANS and LES approaches are used to calculate the unsteady flow field and are compared with the available measured data. The present study indicates that stall inception is mildly affected by the distortion pattern generated by the inlet with the current test set-up. The numerical study indicates that the inlet distortion pattern decays significantly before it reaches the fan face for the current configuration. Numerical results with a shorter distance between the inlet and fan show that counter-rotating vortices near the rotor tip due to the serpentine diffuser affects fan characteristics significantly.

Effect of Micro-Teaching Practices with Concrete Models on Pre-Service Mathematics Teachers' Self-Efficacy Beliefs about Using Concrete Models

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ünlü, Melihan

2018-01-01

The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effect of micro-teaching practices with concrete models on the pre-service teachers' self-efficacy beliefs about using concrete models and to determine the opinions of the pre-service teachers about this issue. In the current study, one of the mixed methods, the convergent design (embedded)…

Investigating Effects of Nano- to Micro-Ampere Alternating Current Stimulation on Trichophyton rubrum Growth.

PubMed

Kwon, Dong Rak; Kwon, Hyunjung; Lee, Woo Ram; Park, Joonsoo

2016-10-01

Fungi are eukaryotic microorganisms including yeast and molds. Many studies have focused on modifying bacterial growth, but few on fungal growth. Microcurrent electricity may stimulate fungal growth. This study aims to investigate effects of microcurrent electric stimulation on Trichophyton rubrum growth. Standard-sized inoculums of T. rubrum derived from a spore suspension were applied to potato dextrose cornmeal agar (PDACC) plates, gently withdrawn with a sterile pipette, and were applied to twelve PDACC plates with a sterile spreader. Twelve Petri dishes were divided into four groups. The given amperage of electric current was 500 nA, 2 µA, and 4 µA in groups A, B, and C, respectively. No electric current was given in group D. In the first 48 hours, colonies only appeared in groups A and B (500 nA and 2 µA exposure). Colonies in group A (500 nA) were denser. Group C (4 µA) plates showed a barely visible film of fungus after 96 hours of incubation. Fungal growth became visible after 144 hours in the control group. Lower intensities of electric current caused faster fungal growth within the amperage range used in this study. Based on these results, further studies with a larger sample size, various fungal species, and various intensities of electric stimulation should be conducted.

Leading-edge vortex research: Some nonplanar concepts and current challenges

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Campbell, J. F.; Osborn, R. F.

1986-01-01

Some background information is provided for the Vortex Flow Aerodynamics Conference and that current slender wing airplanes do not use variable leading edge geometry to improve transonic drag polar is shown. Highlights of some of the initial studies combining wing camber, or flaps, with vortex flow are presented. Current vortex flap studies were reviewed to show that there is a large subsonic data base and that transonic and supersonic generic studies have begun. There is a need for validated flow field solvers to calculate vortex/shock interactions at transonic and supersonic speeds. Many important research opportunities exist for fundamental vortex flow investigations and for designing advanced fighter concepts.

Hyperactivity in Boys with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Ubiquitous Core Symptom or Manifestation of Working Memory Deficits?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rapport, Mark D.; Bolden, Jennifer; Kofler, Michael J.; Sarver, Dustin E.; Raiker, Joseph S.; Alderson, R. Matt

2009-01-01

Hyperactivity is currently considered a core and ubiquitous feature of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); however, an alternative model challenges this premise and hypothesizes a functional relationship between working memory (WM) and activity level. The current study investigated whether children's activity level is functionally…

The Use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication in Cyprus: Findings from a Preliminary Survey

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pampoulou, Eliada; Theodorou, Eleni; Petinou, Kakia

2018-01-01

Whilst augmentative and alternative communication has been used for over sixty years across many countries, in Cyprus it remains underdeveloped. The current study seeks to investigate the current AAC practices in Cyprus. Data were collected through electronically distributed questionnaires to all registered speech and language therapists (n =…

Elementary School Personnel's Perceptions on Childhood Obesity: Pervasiveness and Facilitating Factors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Odum, Mary; McKyer, E. Lisako J.; Tisone, Christine A.; Outley, Corliss W.

2013-01-01

Background: Researchers in numerous disciplines have investigated the effects of the school environment on childhood obesity (CHO), one of the greatest current health concerns in the United States. There is a gap in current empirical evidence, however, on school personnel's perspectives of this issue. This study examined school personnel's…

Comparing Teaching Approaches about Maxwell's Displacement Current

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karam, Ricardo; Coimbra, Debora; Pietrocola, Maurício

2014-01-01

Due to its fundamental role for the consolidation of Maxwell's equations, the displacement current is one of the most important topics of any introductory course on electromagnetism. Moreover, this episode is widely used by historians and philosophers of science as a case study to investigate several issues (e.g. the theory-experiment…

Computer Programming in the UK Undergraduate Mathematics Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sangwin, Christopher J.; O'Toole, Claire

2017-01-01

This paper reports a study which investigated the extent to which undergraduate mathematics students in the United Kingdom are currently taught to programme a computer as a core part of their mathematics degree programme. We undertook an online survey, with significant follow-up correspondence, to gather data on current curricula and received…

An Investigation of College Students' Perceptions of Advanced Placement® Courses. Research Note 2013-2

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cooney, Siobhan M.; McKillip, Mary E. M.; Smith, Kara

2013-01-01

The present study investigates how current college students perceive their experiences in high school Advanced Placement Program (AP) courses. The goal of this research was twofold: We wanted to not only add to the existing literature on outcomes for AP students but also investigate possible benefits for students without success (i.e., a score of…

Current Bypassing Properties by Thermal Switch for PCS Application on NMR/MRI HTS Magnets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, S. B.; Takahashi, M.; Saito, R.; Park, Y. J.; Lee, M. W.; Oh, Y. K.; Ann, H. S.

We develop the compact NMR/MRI device using high temperature superconducting (HTS) wires with the persistent current mode operating. So, the joint techniques between 2G wires are very important issue and many studies have been carried out. Recently, the Kbigdot JOINS, Inc. has developed successfully the high performance superconducting joints between 2G wires by partial melting diffusion and oxygenation annealing process [1]. In this study, the current bypassing properties in a loop-shaped 2G wire are measured experimentally to develop the permanent current switch (PSC). The current bypassing properties of loop-shaped test coil wound with 2G wire (GdBCO) are evaluated by measured the self-magnetic field due to bypassed current by Hall sensors. The strain gauge was used as heater for persistent current switch, and thermal properties against various thermal inputs were investigated experimentally.

Photoinduced currents in pristine and ion irradiated kapton-H polyimide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Anu; Sridharbabu, Y.; Quamara, J. K.

2014-10-01

The photoinduced currents in pristine and ion irradiated kapton-H polyimide have been investigated for different applied electric fields at 200°C. Particularly the effect of illumination intensity on the maximum current obtained as a result of photoinduced polarization has been studied. Samples were irradiated by using PELLETRON facility, IUAC, New Delhi. The photo-carrier charge generation depends directly on intensity of illumination. The samples irradiated at higher fluence show a decrease in the peak current with intensity of illumination. The secondary radiation induced crystallinity (SRIC) is responsible for the increase in maximum photoinduced currents generated with intensity of illumination.

Photoinduced currents in pristine and ion irradiated kapton-H polyimide

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

Sharma, Anu, E-mail: sharmaanu81@gmail.com; Sridharbabu, Y., E-mail: sharmaanu81@gmail.com; Quamara, J. K., E-mail: sharmaanu81@gmail.com

2014-10-15

The photoinduced currents in pristine and ion irradiated kapton-H polyimide have been investigated for different applied electric fields at 200°C. Particularly the effect of illumination intensity on the maximum current obtained as a result of photoinduced polarization has been studied. Samples were irradiated by using PELLETRON facility, IUAC, New Delhi. The photo-carrier charge generation depends directly on intensity of illumination. The samples irradiated at higher fluence show a decrease in the peak current with intensity of illumination. The secondary radiation induced crystallinity (SRIC) is responsible for the increase in maximum photoinduced currents generated with intensity of illumination.

On the energy budget in the current disruption region. [of geomagnetic tail

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hesse, Michael; Birn, Joachim

1993-01-01

This study investigates the energy budget in the current disruption region of the magnetotail, coincident with a pre-onset thin current sheet, around substorm onset time using published observational data and theoretical estimates. We find that the current disruption/dipolarization process typically requires energy inflow into the primary disruption region. The disruption dipolarization process is therefore endoenergetic, i.e., requires energy input to operate. Therefore we argue that some other simultaneously operating process, possibly a large scale magnetotail instability, is required to provide the necessary energy input into the current disruption region.

Japanese MAGSAT Team

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fukushima, N. (Principal Investigator)

1982-01-01

CHRONINT and investigator B tapes as well as CHRONFIN data are being analyzed using a graphical display to illustrate X.Y,Z components as well as their residuals from the MGST (4/81) model. In addition to surveys of the vicinity of Japan, an aerial magnetic survey was conducted around Syowa Station in the Antarctic. Relative data collected by polar orbiting satellites are also being studied. Techniques used to separate external and internal fields from the vector data along the orbital paths; analysis of the frequency of the toroidal current in the equatorial ionosphere; investigation of the sudden storm commencement observed by MAGSAT; determination of the structure of field aligned currents associated with substorms; and calculation of the total electric current passing through the plane encircled by the MAGSAT orbit are discussed.

Probe-Substrate Distance Control in Desorption Electrospray Ionization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yarger, Tyler J.; Yuill, Elizabeth M.; Baker, Lane A.

2018-03-01

We introduce probe-substrate distance (Dps)-control to desorption electrospray ionization (DESI) and report a systematic investigation of key experimental parameters. Examination of voltage, flow rate, and nebulizing gas pressure suggests as Dps decreases, the distance-dependent spray current increases, until a critical point. At the critical point the relationship inverts, and the spray current decreases as the probe moves closer to the surface due to constriction of solution flow by the nebulizing gas. Dps control was used to explore the use of spray current as a signal for feedback positioning, while mass spectrometry imaging was performed simultaneously. Further development of this technique is expected to find application in study of structure-function relationships for clinical diagnostics, biological investigation, and materials characterization. [Figure not available: see fulltext.

An Empirical Investigation of the Relevant Skills of Forensic Accountants

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

DiGabriele, James A.

2008-01-01

The author investigated whether views of the relevant skills of forensic accountants differ among forensic accounting practitioners, accounting academics, and users of forensic accounting services. Universities and colleges are currently considering adding forensic accounting courses to their curriculum. The results of the present study provide…

Strategic Information Systems Planning in Malaysian Public Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ismail, Noor Azizi; Raja Mohd Ali, Raja Haslinda; Mat Saat, Rafeah; Hsbollah, Hafizah Mohamad

2007-01-01

Purpose: The paper's purpose is to investigate the current status, problems and benefits of strategic information systems planning implementation in Malaysian public universities. Design/methodology/approach: The study uses dual but mutually supportive strands of investigation, i.e. a questionnaire survey and interviews. Findings: Malaysian public…

An Investigation into Musicians' Thoughts and Perceptions during Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clark, Terry; Lisboa, Tânia; Williamon, Aaron

2014-01-01

Given the current state of understanding surrounding musicians' experiences while performing, this study sought to investigate musicians' thoughts and perceptions during performances and the perceived impact their evaluation of those thoughts and perceptions has on their subsequent musical activities. Twenty-nine student and professional classical…

Studies of Thermophysical Properties of Metals and Semiconductors by Containerless Processing Under Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Seidel, A.; Soellner, W.; Stenzel, C.

2012-01-01

Electromagnetic levitation under microgravity provides unique opportunities for the investigation of liquid metals, alloys and semiconductors, both above and below their melting temperatures, with minimized disturbances of the sample under investigation. The opportunity to perform such experiments will soon be available on the ISS with the EML payload which is currently being integrated. With its high-performance diagnostics systems EML allows to measure various physical properties such as heat capacity, enthalpy of fusion, viscosity, surface tension, thermal expansion coefficient, and electrical conductivity. In studies of nucleation and solidification phenomena the nucleation kinetics, phase selection, and solidification velocity can be determined. Advanced measurement capabilities currently being studied include the measurement and control of the residual oxygen content of the process atmosphere and a complementary inductive technique to measure thermophysical properties.

Studies of Low-Current Back-Discharge in Point-Plane Geometry with Dielectric Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaworek, Anatol; Rajch, Eryk; Krupa, Andrzej; Czech, Tadeusz; Lackowski, Marcin

2006-01-01

The paper presents results of spectroscopic investigations of back-discharges generated in the point-plane electrode geometry in ambient air at atmospheric pressure, with the plane electrode covered with a dielectric layer. Fly ash from an electrostatic precipitator of a coal-fired power plant was used as the dielectric layer in these investigations. The discharges for positive and negative polarities of the needle electrode were studied by measuring optical emission spectra at two regions of the discharge: near the needle electrode and dielectric layer surface. The visual forms of the discharge were recorded and correlated with the current-voltage characteristics and optical emission spectra. The back-arc discharge was of particular interest in these studies due to its detrimental effects it causes in electrostatic precipitators.

The interactive impacts of high school gay-straight alliances (GSAs) on college student attitudes toward LGBT individuals: an investigation of high school characteristics.

PubMed

Worthen, Meredith G F

2014-01-01

Although gay-straight alliances (GSAs) are becoming more popular in high schools across the U.S., empirical studies investigating GSAs and their impact are sparse. Utilizing a sample of college students drawn from a large Southern university (N = 805; 78% White; 61% female; average age 22), the current study investigates the ways that the presence of high school GSAs affect college student attitudes toward LGBT individuals and how these relationships may vary by high school GSA location (South vs. non-South), town type (rural/small town, suburban, large city), and high school student population size. Overall, results from the current study show that the presence of a GSA in high school is a robust positive predictor of supportive attitudes toward LGBT individuals, even when considering many control variables. Such results suggest that the presence of GSAs in high schools may have significant positive and potentially long-lasting effects on college students' attitudes toward LGBT individuals.

Conductive paths through polycrystalline BaTiO{sub 3}: Scanning probe microscopy study

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

Ayvazian, Talin; Bersuker, Gennadi; Lingley, Zachary R.

2016-08-15

The microstructural features determining the leakage current through polycrystalline BaTiO{sub 3} films are investigated using Conductive Atomic Force Microscopy. Grain boundaries are found to be the dominant conductive paths compared to the conduction through the grains. Grain boundary currents are observed to reversibly rise with the increase of the applied DC voltages, indicating that the current is controlled by a field-activated charge transport process.

Vegetable and Fruit Intakes of On-Reserve First Nations Schoolchildren Compared to Canadian Averages and Current Recommendations

PubMed Central

Gates, Allison; Hanning, Rhona M.; Gates, Michelle; Skinner, Kelly; Martin, Ian D.; Tsuji, Leonard J. S.

2012-01-01

This study investigated, in on-reserve First Nations (FN) youth in Ontario, Canada, the following: (a) the intakes of vegetable and fruit, “other” foods and relevant nutrients as compared to current recommendations and national averages, (b) current prevalence rates of overweight and obesity and (c) the relationship between latitude and dietary intakes. Twenty-four-hour diet recalls were collected via the Waterloo Web-Based Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (WEB-Q) (n = 443). Heights and weights of participants were self reported using measured values and Body Mass Index was categorized using the International Obesity Task Force cutoffs. Food group and nutrient intakes were compared to current standards, Southern Ontario Food Behaviour data and the Canadian Community Health Survey, Cycle 2.2, using descriptive statistics. Mean vegetable and fruit, fibre and folate intakes were less than current recommendations. Girls aged 14–18 years had mean intakes of vitamin A below current recommendations for this sub-group; for all sub-groups, mean intakes of vegetables and fruit were below Canadian averages. All sub-groups also had intakes of all nutrients and food groups investigated that were less than those observed in non-FN youth from Southern Ontario, with the exception of “other” foods in boys 12–18 years. Prevalence rates of overweight and obesity were 31.8% and 19.6%, respectively, exceeding rates in the general population. Dietary intakes did not vary consistently by latitude (n = 248), as revealed by ANOVA. This study provided a unique investigation of the dietary intakes of on-reserve FN youth in Ontario and revealed poor intakes of vegetables and fruit and related nutrients and high intakes of “other” foods. Prevalence rates of overweight and obesity exceed those of the general population. PMID:22690200

Management of Breast Milk Oversupply in Traditional Persian Medicine.

PubMed

Kabiri, Marya; Kamalinejad, Mohammad; Sohrabvand, Farnaz; Bioos, Soodabeh; Babaeian, Mohammad

2017-10-01

Comprehensive explanation about milk oversupply is not available in the current literature because few studies have been done on this topic. In traditional Persian medicine, milk oversupply and its management have been described. The aim of this study was to investigate milk oversupply from the perspective of medieval Persian practitioners. In this study, some main medical resources of traditional Persian medicine such as Al-Havi and the Canon of Medicine were studied to extract valuable information about milk oversupply. Etiology of milk overproduction according to traditional Persian medicine is based on humors theory and cannot be easily compared with current medical concepts. Diet modifications and natural remedies have been applied for managing this condition but the majority of traditional Persian medicine interventions for reducing milk oversupply have not been scientifically investigated in modern medicine. The knowledge of milk oversupply in traditional Persian medicine may be helpful to conduct further related studies.

Management of Breast Milk Oversupply in Traditional Persian Medicine

PubMed Central

Kabiri, Marya; Kamalinejad, Mohammad; Sohrabvand, Farnaz; Bioos, Soodabeh

2017-01-01

Comprehensive explanation about milk oversupply is not available in the current literature because few studies have been done on this topic. In traditional Persian medicine, milk oversupply and its management have been described. The aim of this study was to investigate milk oversupply from the perspective of medieval Persian practitioners. In this study, some main medical resources of traditional Persian medicine such as Al-Havi and the Canon of Medicine were studied to extract valuable information about milk oversupply. Etiology of milk overproduction according to traditional Persian medicine is based on humors theory and cannot be easily compared with current medical concepts. Diet modifications and natural remedies have been applied for managing this condition but the majority of traditional Persian medicine interventions for reducing milk oversupply have not been scientifically investigated in modern medicine. The knowledge of milk oversupply in traditional Persian medicine may be helpful to conduct further related studies. PMID:28817945

Motion-induced eddy current thermography for high-speed inspection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Jianbo; Li, Kongjing; Tian, Guiyun; Zhu, Junzhen; Gao, Yunlai; Tang, Chaoqing; Chen, Xiaotian

2017-08-01

This letter proposes a novel motion-induced eddy current based thermography (MIECT) for high-speed inspection. In contrast to conventional eddy current thermography (ECT) based on a time-varying magnetic field created by an AC coil, the motion-induced eddy current is induced by the relative motion between magnetic field and inspected objects. A rotating magnetic field created by three-phase windings is used to investigate the heating principle and feasibility of the proposed method. Firstly, based on Faraday's law the distribution of MIEC is investigated, which is then validated by numerical simulation. Further, experimental studies are conducted to validate the proposed method by creating rotating magnetic fields at different speeds from 600 rpm to 6000 rpm, and it is verified that rotating speed will increase MIEC intensity and thereafter improve the heating efficiency. The conclusion can be preliminarily drawn that the proposed MIECT is a platform suitable for high-speed inspection.

Statistical variability study of random dopant fluctuation on gate-all-around inversion-mode silicon nanowire field-effect transistors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yoon, Jun-Sik; Rim, Taiuk; Kim, Jungsik; Kim, Kihyun; Baek, Chang-Ki; Jeong, Yoon-Ha

2015-03-01

Random dopant fluctuation effects of gate-all-around inversion-mode silicon nanowire field-effect transistors (FETs) with different diameters and extension lengths are investigated. The nanowire FETs with smaller diameter and longer extension length reduce average values and variations of subthreshold swing and drain-induced barrier lowering, thus improving short channel immunity. Relative variations of the drain currents increase as the diameter decreases because of decreased current drivability from narrower channel cross-sections. Absolute variations of the drain currents decrease critically as the extension length increases due to decreasing the number of arsenic dopants penetrating into the channel region. To understand variability origins of the drain currents, variations of source/drain series resistance and low-field mobility are investigated. All these two parameters affect the variations of the drain currents concurrently. The nanowire FETs having extension lengths sufficient to prevent dopant penetration into the channel regions and maintaining relatively large cross-sections are suggested to achieve suitable short channel immunity and small variations of the drain currents.

Real-Time Amperometric Recording of Extracellular H₂O₂ in the Brain of Immunocompromised Mice: An In Vitro, Ex Vivo and In Vivo Characterisation Study.

PubMed

Reid, Caroline H; Finnerty, Niall J

2017-07-08

We detail an extensive characterisation study on a previously described dual amperometric H₂O₂ biosensor consisting of H₂O₂ detection (blank) and degradation (catalase) electrodes. In vitro investigations demonstrated excellent H₂O₂ sensitivity and selectivity against the interferent, ascorbic acid. Ex vivo studies were performed to mimic physiological conditions prior to in vivo deployment. Exposure to brain tissue homogenate identified reliable sensitivity and selectivity recordings up to seven days for both blank and catalase electrodes. Furthermore, there was no compromise in pre- and post-implanted catalase electrode sensitivity in ex vivo mouse brain. In vivo investigations performed in anaesthetised mice confirmed the ability of the H₂O₂ biosensor to detect increases in amperometric current following locally perfused/infused H₂O₂ and antioxidant inhibitors mercaptosuccinic acid and sodium azide. Subsequent recordings in freely moving mice identified negligible effects of control saline and sodium ascorbate interference injections on amperometric H₂O₂ current. Furthermore, the stability of the amperometric current was confirmed over a five-day period and analysis of 24-h signal recordings identified the absence of diurnal variations in amperometric current. Collectively, these findings confirm the biosensor current responds in vivo to increasing exogenous and endogenous H₂O₂ and tentatively supports measurement of H₂O₂ dynamics in freely moving NOD SCID mice.

Evaluation of alternative snowplowable markers and snowplowing procedures.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2013-06-01

The objectives of this study were to investigate viable alternatives to the currently approved snowplowable raised pavement marker and alternative methods and equipment used to snowplow roadways. The study included evaluating any potential durable an...

Pedagogical Practices and Counselor Self-Efficacy: A Mixed Methods Investigations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brogan, Justin R.

2009-01-01

The current study investigated the Lecture Teaching Method and Socratic Teaching Method to determine if there was a relationship between pedagogical methods and Counselor Self-Efficacy (CSE). A course in Advanced Professional Development was utilized to determine if teaching methods could affect student perceptions of competence to practice…

POLICY AND SCIENCE: ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF REGULATIONS ON AIR QUALITY AND HUMAN HEALTH

EPA Science Inventory

This presentation will discuss the NOx SIP call and the results of several studies investigating the impact of the regulation on NOx emissions and ozone levels across the northeastern United States. Current research plans to investigate linkages with human health will also be di...

Teacher Greetings Increase College Students' Test Scores

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weinstein, Lawrence; Laverghetta, Antonio; Alexander, Ralph; Stewart, Megan

2009-01-01

The current study is an extension of a previous investigation dealing with teacher greetings to students. The present investigation used teacher greetings with college students and academic performance (test scores). We report data using university students and in-class test performance. Students in introductory psychology who received teachers'…

An Analysis of Content Knowledge and Cognitive Abilities as Factors That Are Associated with Algebra Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McLean, Tamika Ann

2017-01-01

The current study investigated college students' content knowledge and cognitive abilities as factors associated with their algebra performance, and examined how combinations of content knowledge and cognitive abilities related to their algebra performance. Specifically, the investigation examined the content knowledge factors of computational…

Teen Financial Knowledge, Self-Efficacy, and Behavior: A Gendered View

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Danes, Sharon M.; Haberman, Heather R.

2007-01-01

A social constructionist perspective was taken in the current investigation of 5,329 male and female high school students. Gender differences were investigated in financial knowledge, self-efficacy, and behavior after studying a financial planning curriculum. Females gained more knowledge on credit, auto insurance, and investments, although males…

A Narrative Investigation of Adult Music Engagement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rohwer, Debbie

2017-01-01

The purpose of the current study was to describe the musical life experiences of an active, adult community musician through a narrative investigation. Jon is a musically-engaged retired instrumentalist who shares a trust and respect relationship with the researcher. Through data sources of observations, interviews, emails, journals, and pictures,…

The Influence of the Optical Phonons on the Non-equilibrium Spin Current in the Presence of Spin-Orbit Couplings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hasanirokh, K.; Phirouznia, A.; Majidi, R.

2016-02-01

The influence of the electron coupling with non-polarized optical phonons on magnetoelectric effects of a two-dimensional electron gas system has been investigated in the presence of the Rashba and Dresselhaus spin-orbit couplings. Numerical calculations have been performed in the non-equilibrium regime. In the previous studies in this field, it has been shown that the Rashba and Dresselhaus couplings cannot generate non-equilibrium spin current and the spin current vanishes identically in the absence of other relaxation mechanisms such as lattice vibrations. However, in the current study, based on a semiclassical approach, it was demonstrated that in the presence of electron-phonon coupling, the spin current and other magnetoelectric quantities have been modulated by the strength of the spin-orbit interactions.

Measurement and Evaluation of the Gas Density and Viscosity of Pure Gases and Mixtures Using a Micro-Cantilever Beam

PubMed Central

Badarlis, Anastasios; Pfau, Axel; Kalfas, Anestis

2015-01-01

Measurement of gas density and viscosity was conducted using a micro-cantilever beam. In parallel, the validity of the proposed modeling approach was evaluated. This study also aimed to widen the database of the gases on which the model development of the micro-cantilever beams is based. The density and viscosity of gases are orders of magnitude lower than liquids. For this reason, the use of a very sensitive sensor is essential. In this study, a micro-cantilever beam from the field of atomic force microscopy was used. Although the current cantilever was designed to work with thermal activation, in the current investigation, it was activated with an electromagnetic force. The deflection of the cantilever beam was detected by an integrated piezo-resistive sensor. Six pure gases and sixteen mixtures of them in ambient conditions were investigated. The outcome of the investigation showed that the current cantilever beam had a sensitivity of 240 Hz/(kg/m3), while the accuracy of the determined gas density and viscosity in ambient conditions reached ±1.5% and ±2.0%, respectively. PMID:26402682

Investigation of the current requirements engineering practices among software developers at the Universiti Utara Malaysia Information Technology (UUMIT) centre

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hussain, Azham; Mkpojiogu, Emmanuel O. C.; Abdullah, Inam

2016-08-01

Requirements Engineering (RE) is a systemic and integrated process of eliciting, elaborating, negotiating, validating and managing of the requirements of a system in a software development project. UUM has been supported by various systems developed and maintained by the UUM Information Technology (UUMIT) Centre. The aim of this study was to assess the current requirements engineering practices at UUMIT. The main problem that prompted this research is the lack of studies that support software development activities at the UUMIT. The study is geared at helping UUMIT produce quality but time and cost saving software products by implementing cutting edge and state of the art requirements engineering practices. Also, the study contributes to UUM by identifying the activities needed for software development so that the management will be able to allocate budget to provide adequate and precise training for the software developers. Three variables were investigated: Requirement Description, Requirements Development (comprising: Requirements Elicitation, Requirements Analysis and Negotiation, Requirements Validation), and Requirement Management. The results from the study showed that the current practice of requirement engineering in UUMIT is encouraging, but still need further development and improvement because a few RE practices were seldom practiced.

A comparison of traditional anti-inflammation and anti-infection medicinal plants with current evidence from biomedical research: Results from a regional study

PubMed Central

Vieira, A.

2010-01-01

Background: In relation to pharmacognosy, an objective of many ethnobotanical studies is to identify plant species to be further investigated, for example, tested in disease models related to the ethnomedicinal application. To further warrant such testing, research evidence for medicinal applications of these plants (or of their major phytochemical constituents and metabolic derivatives) is typically analyzed in biomedical databases. Methods: As a model of this process, the current report presents novel information regarding traditional anti-inflammation and anti-infection medicinal plant use. This information was obtained from an interview-based ethnobotanical study; and was compared with current biomedical evidence using the Medline® database. Results: Of the 8 anti-infection plant species identified in the ethnobotanical study, 7 have related activities reported in the database; and of the 6 anti-inflammation plants, 4 have related activities in the database. Conclusion: Based on novel and complimentary results from the ethnobotanical and biomedical database analyses, it is suggested that some of these plants warrant additional investigation of potential anti-inflammatory or anti-infection activities in related disease models, and also additional studies in other population groups. PMID:21589754

Study of an ATC baseline for the evaluation of team configurations : information requirements.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2002-01-01

This study investigated the information needs of Air Traffic Control Specialists (ATCSs) relative to their working position. The working positions used in this study included the current radar ATCS position and the concept airspace coordinator positi...

Experimental investigations of an AC pulse heating method for vehicular high power lithium-ion batteries at subzero temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jiangong; Sun, Zechang; Wei, Xuezhe; Dai, Haifeng; Gu, Weijun

2017-11-01

Effect of the AC (alternating current) pulse heating method on battery SoH (state of health) for large laminated power lithium-ion batteries at low temperature is investigated experimentally. Firstly, excitation current frequencies, amplitudes, and voltage limitations on cell temperature evolution are studied. High current amplitudes facilitate the heat accumulation and temperature rise. Low frequency region serves as a good innovation to heat the battery because of the large impedance. Wide voltage limitations also enjoy better temperature evolution owing to the less current modulation, but the temperature difference originated from various voltage limitations attenuates due to the decrement of impedance resulting from the temperature rise. Experiments with the thermocouple-embedded cell manifest good temperature homogeneity between the battery surface and interior during the AC heating process. Secondly, the cell capacity, Direct Current resistance and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy are all calibrated to assess the battery SoH after the hundreds of AC pulse heating cycles. Also, all cells are disassembled to investigate the battery internal morphology with the employment of Scanning Electron Microscope and Energy-Dispersive x-ray Spectroscopy techniques. The results indicate that the AC heating method does not aggravate the cell degradation even in the low frequency range (0.5 Hz) under the normal voltage protection limitation.

Investigation and Analysis of Vocational Education for Chinese Migrant Workers of New Generation--Reflection from a Special Investigation in F City

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhuoxin, Liang

2013-01-01

The research has chosen some migrant workers of new generation from different fields in F City to investigate their current situation of vocational education. The research reveals that their education is helpful, mainly in employment, work and the methods of mentorship and further study organized by employers. The research also reveals its…

Investigation of the Public Library as a Linking Agent to Major Scientific, Educational, Social, and Environmental Data Bases. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lockheed Research Lab., Palo Alto, CA.

The DIALIB Project was a 3-year experiment that investigated the potential of the public library as a "linking agent" between the public and the many machine-readable data bases currently accessible via the telephone using online terminals. The study investigated the following questions: (1) Is online search of use to the patrons of a…

Group Therapy for School-Aged Children Who Stutter: A Survey of Current Practices

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liddle, Hilary; James, Sarah; Hardman, Margaret

2011-01-01

Although group therapy is recommended for school-aged children who stutter (CWS), it is not widely researched. This study aimed to explore this provision, using a postal survey which investigated the current practices of Speech & Language Therapists (SLTs) in the UK. Seventy percent of SLT services provided some group therapy, but the level of…

Pre-Service Science Teachers' Perception of the Principles of Scientific Research

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Can, Sendil; Kaymakci, Güliz

2016-01-01

The purpose of the current study employing the survey method is to determine the pre-service science teachers' perceptions of the principles of scientific research and to investigate the effects of gender, grade level and the state of following scientific publications on their perceptions. The sampling of the current research is comprised of 125…

Delivering Communication Strategy Training for People with Aphasia: What Is Current Clinical Practice?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beckley, Firle; Best, Wendy; Beeke, Suzanne

2017-01-01

Background: Communication strategy training (CST) is a recognized part of UK speech and language therapists' (SLTs) role when working with a person with aphasia. Multiple CST interventions have been published but, to date, there are no published studies exploring clinical practice in this area. Aims: To investigate UK SLTs' current CST practices.…

Current State of History of Psychology Teaching and Education in Argentina: An Empirical Bibliometric Investigation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fierro, Catriel; Ostrovsky, Ana Elisa; Di Doménico, María Cristina

2018-01-01

This study is an empirical analysis of the field's current state in Argentinian universities. Bibliometric parameters were used to retrieve the total listed texts (N = 797) of eight undergraduate history courses' syllabi from Argentina's most populated public university psychology programs. Then, professors in charge of the selected courses (N =…

Islam and Muslim Life in Current Bavarian Geography Textbooks

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zecha, Stefanie; Popp, Stephan; Yasar, Aysun

2016-01-01

This paper investigates the Islam and Muslim life in German textbooks. The study is based on the analysis of current Geography textbooks in Bavarian secondary schools. As a first step, the authors developed a system for objective analysis of the textbooks that structures the content in categories. In a second step, the authors used the qualitative…

Examining the Validity of the Autism Spectrum Rating Scales with a Preschool Population Referred for Special Education Evaluation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cunningham, Sean

2012-01-01

Early identification and intervention of an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can have beneficial effects that extend into later life. However, currently used instruments have difficulties detecting children who may have an ASD. The current study investigated the utility of a newly published measure, Autism Spectrum Rating Scales (ASRS). Participants…

Psychiatric Comorbidities among Female Adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salbach-Andrae, Harriet; Lenz, Klaus; Simmendinger, Nicole; Klinkowski, Nora; Lehmkuhl, Ulrike; Pfeiffer, Ernst

2008-01-01

This study investigated current comorbid Axis I diagnoses associated with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) in adolescents. The sample included 101 female adolescents treated at a psychiatric unit for primary DSM-IV diagnoses of AN. 73.3% of the AN patients were diagnosed as having a current comorbidity of at least one comorbid Axis I diagnosis, with no…

An Exploration of Pre-Service Teachers' Experiences in Outdoor "Places" and Intentions for Teaching in the Outdoors

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blatt, Erica; Patrick, Patricia

2014-01-01

This study explores pre-service teachers' past interactions with "place" in outdoor settings and how these experiences contribute to their current perceptions of the importance of taking their own students into the outdoors. Specifically, the researchers were interested in investigating if current pre-service teachers are part of the…

Gender, Prior Knowledge, Interest, and Experience in Electricity and Conceptual Change Text Manipulations in Learning about Direct Current.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chambers, Sharon K.; Andre, Thomas

1997-01-01

Presents a study that investigated relationships between gender, interest, and experience in electricity. Also explored the effect of conceptual change text manipulations on learning fundamental concepts of direct current. Suggests that conceptual change text manipulations are likely to be effective for both men and women. Contains 57 references.…

Teaching and Learning English Functional Writing: Investigating Egyptian EFL Student Teachers' Currently-Needed Functional Writing Skills

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abdallah, Mahmoud M. S.

2014-01-01

At an age marked by the emergence of new literacies, vast technological developments, and social networking practices, language is currently approached from a pragmatic perspective that recognises its functional use to meet realistic communicative goals. Taking this into account, the present study sought to identify the functional writing skills…

Retrospective Report of Social Withdrawal during Adolescence and Current Maladjustment in Young Adulthood: Cross-Cultural Comparisons between Australian and South Korean Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Jinkwan; Rapee, Ronald M.; Ja Oh, Kyung; Moon, Hye-Shin

2008-01-01

The current study investigated associations between the frequency of and motivations for social withdrawal during adolescence and emotional distresses in young adulthood. Perceived motivations for social withdrawal included unsociability, isolation, shyness, and low mood. Social withdrawal during adolescence was assessed using a retrospective…

The NASA Deep Space Network (DSN) Array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gatti, Mark

2006-01-01

The DSN Array Project is currently working with Senior Management at both JPL and NASA to develop strategies towards starting a major implementation project. Several studies within NASA are concluding, all of which recommend that any future DSN capability include arraying of antennas to increase performance. Support of Deep Space, Lunar, and CEV (crewed exploration vehicle) missions is possible. High data rate and TDRSS formatting is being investigated. Any future DSN capacity must include Uplink. Current studies ongoing to investigate and develop technologies for uplink arraying; provides advantages in three ways: 1) N2 effect. EIRP grows as N2(-vs-N for a downlink array); 2) Improved architectural options (can separate uplink and downlink); and 3) Potential for more cost effective transmitters for fixed EIRP.

Remedial investigation/feasibility study for the Clinch River/Poplar Creek operable unit. Volume 1. Main text

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

NONE

1995-09-01

This is the combined Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study Report for the Clinch River/Poplar Crack (CR/PC) Operable Unit (OU). The CR/PC OU is located in Anderson and Roane Counties, Tennessee and consists of the Clinch River and several of its embayments in Melton Hill and Watts Bar Reservoirs. These waters have received hazardous substances released over a period of 50 years from the US Department of Energy`s Oak Ridge Reservation (ORR), a National Priority List site established under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act. A remedial investigation has been conducted to determine the current nature and extent of any contaminationmore » and to assess the resulting risk to human health and the environment. The feasibility study evaluates remedial action alternatives to identify any that are feasible for implementation and that would effectively reduce risk. Historical studies had indicated that current problems would likely include {sup 137}Cs in sediment of the Clinch River, mercury in sediment and fish of Poplar Creek and PCBs and pesticides in fish from throughout the OU. Peak releases of mercury and {sup 137}Cs occurred over 35 years ago, and current releases are low. Past releases of PCBs from the ORR are poorly quantified, and current releases are difficult to quantify because levels are so low. The site characterization focused on contaminants in surface water, sediment, and biota. Contaminants in surface water were all found to be below Ambient Water Quality Criteria. Other findings included the following: elevated metals including cesium 137 and mercury in McCoy Branch sediments; PCBs and chlordane elevated in several fish species, presenting the only major human health risk, significant ecological risks in Poplar Creek but not in the Clinch River.« less

40 CFR 93.153 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... operation to activities currently being conducted. (xii) Planning, studies, and provision of technical... control activities and adopting approach, departure, and enroute procedures for aircraft operations above... (e) of this section. (3) Research, investigations, studies, demonstrations, or training (other than...

40 CFR 93.153 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... operation to activities currently being conducted. (xii) Planning, studies, and provision of technical... control activities and adopting approach, departure, and enroute procedures for aircraft operations above... (e) of this section. (3) Research, investigations, studies, demonstrations, or training (other than...

40 CFR 93.153 - Applicability.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... operation to activities currently being conducted. (xii) Planning, studies, and provision of technical... control activities and adopting approach, departure, and enroute procedures for aircraft operations above... (e) of this section. (3) Research, investigations, studies, demonstrations, or training (other than...

How to know and choose online games: differences between current and potential players.

PubMed

Teng, Ching-I; Lo, Shao-Kang; Wang, Pe-Cheng

2007-12-01

This study investigated how different adolescent players acquire game information and the criteria they use in choosing online games and found that (1) current players generally use comprehensive information sources more than potential players do; (2) current players rely on free trials and smooth display of motion graphics as choice criteria more than potential players do; (3) potential players rely on the look of advertisements more than current players do; (4) both current and potential players most likely use word-of-mouth and gaming programs on TV as information sources; and (5) endorser attractiveness is ranked the least important among six choice criteria by both current and potential players.

A Review of Current Investigations of Urban-Induced Rainfall and Recommendations for the Future

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shepherd, J. Marshall

2004-01-01

Precipitation is a key link in the global water cycle and a proxy for changing climate; therefore proper assessment of the urban environment s impact on precipitation (land use, aerosols, thermal properties) will be increasingly important in ongoing climate diagnostics and prediction, Global Water and Energy Cycle (GWEC) analysis and modeling, weather forecasting, freshwater resource management, urban planning-design and land-atmosphere-ocean interface processes. These facts are particularly critical if current projections for global urban growth are accurate. The goal of this paper is to provide a concise review of recent (1990-present) studies related to how the urban environment affects precipitation. In addition to providing a synopsis of current work, recent findings are placed in context with historical investigations such as METROMEX studies. Both observational and modeling studies of urban-induced rainfall are discussed. Additionally, a discussion of the relative roles of urban dynamic and microphysical (e.g. aerosol) processes is presented. The paper closes with a set of recommendations for what observations and capabilities are needed in the future to advance our understanding of the processes.

A study of field-aligned currents observed at high and low altitudes in the nightside magnetosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elphic, R. C.; Craven, J. D.; Frank, L. A.; Sugiura, M.

1988-01-01

Field-aligned current structures on auroral field lines observed at low and high altitudes using DE 1 and ISEE 2 magnetometer, and particle data observed when the spacecraft are in magnetic conjunction in the near-midnight magnetosphere, are investigated. To minimize latitudinal ambiguity, the plasma-sheet boundary layer observed with ISEE 2 and the discrete aurora at the poleward edge of the auroral oval with DE 1 are studied. The overall current observed at highest latitudes is flowing into the ionosphere, and is likely to be carried by ionospheric electrons flowing upward. There are, however, smaller-scale current structures within this region. The sense and magnitude of the field-aligned currents agree at the two sites. The ISEE 2 data suggests that the high-latitude downward current corresponds to the high-latitude boundary of the plasma-sheet boundary layer, and may be associated with the ion beams observed there.

Numerical and Experimental Investigation of the Electromechanical Behavior of REBCO Tapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allen, N. C.; Chiesa, L.; Takayasu, M.

2015-12-01

To fully characterize the electromechanical behavior of a Twisted Stacked-Tape Cable (TSTC) it is important to understand the performance of the individual REBCO tapes under various loading conditions. Numerical modeling and experimentation have been used to investigate the electromechanical characteristics of two commercially available REBCO tapes (SuperPower and SuNAM). Tension and combined tension-torsion experiments on single tapes have been continued, from prior preliminary studies, to characterize their critical current behavior and mechanical strength. Additionally, structural finite element analysis was performed on single tapes under tension and combined tension-torsion to investigate the strain dependence of the critical current. The numerical results were compared to the experimental findings for validation. The SuNAM experimental data matched the numerical model very well while the SuperPower tape experienced degradation at lower stress and strain than predicted in the model. The Superpower tape also displayed greater variability in critical current between different samples as compared with the SuNAM tape.

A numerical model for thermal energy storage systems utilising encapsulated phase change materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacob, Rhys; Saman, Wasim; Bruno, Frank

2016-05-01

In an effort to reduce the cost of thermal energy storage for concentrated solar power plants, a thermocline storage concept was investigated. Two systems were investigated being a sensible-only and an encapsulated phase change system. Both systems have the potential to reduce the storage tank volume and/or reduce the cost of the filler material, thereby reducing the cost of the system when compared to current two-tank molten salt systems. The objective of the current paper is to create a numerical model capable of designing and simulating the aforementioned thermocline storage concepts in the open source programming language known as Python. The results of the current study are compared to previous numerical results and are found to be in good agreement.

Assessment of training capacity in New Zealand general practices: a stocktake in the lower North Island and South Island.

PubMed

Murton, Samantha A; Pullon, Susan Rh

2017-09-22

General practices are providing clinically-based training for rapidly increasing numbers of medical (and other health professional) trainees. This study investigated capacity and intention of general practices to additionally teach junior doctors (now required to undertake community-based attachments by the New Zealand Medical Council) alongside current trainees in their service. A web-based/telephone survey of all general practices was developed and administered November 2015-April 2016. In the Otago study region (lower North Island, South Island), 463 currently operating practices were identified. (A companion Auckland-based study concurrently investigated the upper North Island.) Of the 280/463 (60%) responding practices, 93% (261/280) were currently taking health professional trainees, with 86% (241/280) taking at least one type of medical trainee. Practices indicate that 14% fewer of them will take undergraduate medical students than previously (199 practices down to 162), but more would take junior doctors (42 up to 79) and GP registrars (129 practices up to 142). Most practices in these regions already contribute to teaching. Practices indicated limitations in accommodating continued increases in numbers of trainees in the current poorly coordinated system. Improved support and training for practices is needed to enable practices to take more trainees of multiple types per practice, both concurrently and sequentially.

CIDR

Science.gov Websites

studies. Investigators must supply positive and negative controls. Current pricing for CIDR Program studies are for a minimum study size of 90 samples and increasing in multiples of 90. Please inquire for for the assay is included for CIDR Program studies. FFPE samples are supported for MethylationEPIC

Ethnic status and engagement with health services: Attitudes toward help-seeking and intercultural willingness to interact among South East Asian students in Australia.

PubMed

Logan, Shanna; Steel, Zachary; Hunt, Caroline

2017-04-01

Previous research has demonstrated the importance of intercultural willingness to interact; however, these investigations have yet to be applied to a health context or to compare an ethnic minority with a majority sample. Consequently, the current study sought to better understand engagement with health services by investigating both attitudes towards seeking psychological help and intercultural willingness to interact within an ethnic minority South East Asian population, relative to an Anglo Australian sample. As predicted, negative attitudes towards seeking psychological help were higher in the South East Asian sample, with this relationship persisting across generations, despite significant differences in acculturation. In contrast, intercultural willingness to interact was not associated with ethnicity status but was associated with higher anxiety, uncertainty, ethnocentrism and help-seeking, consistent with current empirical and theoretical literature. The current study also sought to examine factors associated with help-seeking attitudes and found that ethnocentrism was a significant predictor, when accounting for previous health experience.

Stability of field emission current from porous n-GaAs(110)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tondare, V. N.; Naddaf, M.; Bhise, A. B.; Bhoraskar, S. V.; Joag, D. S.; Mandale, A. B.; Sainkar, S. R.

2002-02-01

Field electron emission from porous GaAs has been investigated. The emitter was prepared by anodic etching of n-GaAs (110) in 0.1 M HCl solution. The as-etched porous GaAs shows nonlinear Fowler-Nordheim (FN) characteristics, with a low onset voltage. The emitter, after operating for 6 h at the residual gas pressure of 1×10-8 mbar, shows a linear FN characteristics with a relatively high onset voltage and poor field emission current stability as compared to the as-etched emitter. The change in the behavior was attributed to the residual gas ion bombardment during field electron emission. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic investigations were carried out on as-etched sample and the one which was studied for field emission. The studies indicate that the as-etched surface contains As2O3 and the surface after field electron emission for about 6 h becomes gallium rich. The presence of As2O3 seems to be a desirable feature for the stable field emission current.

An Investigation into the Incidence of Obesity and Underweight among Adults with an Intellectual Disability in an Australian Sample

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moore, Kathleen; McGillivray, Jane; Illingworth, Kaye; Brookhouse, Peter

2004-01-01

Reports suggest that 7% to 18% of Australian adults are obese and a further 16% to 55% are overweight. Studies from other countries have indicated that obesity among people with an intellectual disability may be at least, or even more, prevalent. Prevalence rates range from 28% to 59%. The aim of the current study was to investigate the weight…

Synthesis and Characterization of Ionically Crosslinked Elastomers

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-05-12

SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: In this research poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PBA) elastomers were investigated as model systems to study the thermomechanical...subject to any oenalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number. PLEASE DO...Ionically Crosslinked Elastomers Report Title In this research poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PBA) elastomers were investigated as model systems to study the

An Investigation into the Academic, Social, and Economic Effects of Requisite Remedial Courses for First Year College Students: A Mixed Methods Case Study of One Private University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Choate, Carolyn A.

2017-01-01

The current study was designed to investigate the student level economic, social, and academic consequences of remedial courses in one private university during the Fall 2006 through Fall 2016 academic semesters. The researcher specifically considering the potential effects of required remedial coursework on first year college students from the…

A Study Investigating the Effect of Treatment Developed by Integrating the 5E and Simulation on Pre-Service Science Teachers' Achievement in Photoelectric Effect

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taslidere, Erdal

2015-01-01

The Current study investigated the effect of the 5E learning cycle in which the simulations were integrated on pre-service science teachers' achievement in photoelectric subject. Four sophomore level classes with their 140 students participated in the research and a quasi-experimental design was used. The classes were randomly assigned into one of…

Self-esteem and evaluative beliefs in paranoia.

PubMed

Valiente, Carmen; Cantero, Dolores; Sánchez, Alvaro; Provencio, María; Wickham, Sophie

2014-06-01

Psychological models have implicated negative self-esteem as an important factor underlying paranoia. However, research investigating the role of self-esteem in paranoia suffers from poor conceptual and methodological understanding, resulting in conflicting findings. Central to this problem is the use of measures investigating global self-esteem and self-evaluative beliefs interchangeably. In the present study we aimed to analyze differences in self-esteem domains and self-evaluation. The present study used interviews and questionnaires to compare a clinical sample of participants who were currently paranoid (n = 55) with healthy controls (n = 57) on global self-esteem domains and negative evaluative beliefs, in order to investigate the multi-faceted role of "the self". There was no significant difference in self-esteem domains between groups, highlighting that self-esteem is preserved in currently paranoid individuals. However, the paranoid group had significantly more negative evaluative beliefs. Interestingly, our global measures of self-esteem and measures of negative evaluative beliefs were uncorrelated, highlighting the importance of understanding the differences underlying these concepts. This study does not address dynamic aspects of self-esteem and self-evaluation. The present study provides undeniable evidence to investigate self-concept dimensions separately. These findings must be considered by researchers interested in the role of the self in the onset and maintenance of paranoia. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Citizenship and withdrawal in the workplace: relationship between organizational citizenship behavior, intention to leave current job and intention to leave the organization.

PubMed

Paillé, Pascal; Grima, François

2011-01-01

This study investigates the relationship between organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) and employee intention to leave the organization and current job using a sample of French employees. A survey was sent to 1,200 alumni of a business school in France. Participation in the study was voluntary. The participants were 355 working adults with French citizenship. This paper provides several interesting findings. While no relationship was found between altruism and intention to leave both the organization and the current job, sportsmanship, civic virtue and helping others emerged as the strongest predictors of intention to leave the organization and intention to leave the current job. Results are discussed.

An Investigation of Pre-Service Science and Mathematics Teachers' Personal Growth Initiative

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Büyükgöze, Hilal

2015-01-01

The current paper primarily aims to investigate pre-service science and mathematics teachers' personal growth initiative levels. The second aim of the study is to examine whether participants' initiative levels differ in relation to their gender, grade, department, perceived academic achievement, and willingness to attend graduate education after…

The Influence of Target and Masker Characteristics on Infants' and Adults' Detection of Speech

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Oster, Monika-Maria; Werner, Lynne A.

2017-01-01

Purpose: Several investigators have compared infants' detection of speech in speech and nonspeech maskers to evaluate developmental differences in masking. Such comparisons have produced contradictory results, possibly because each investigation used different stimuli. The current study examined target and masker effects on infants' and adults'…

College Students with Disabilities' Motivation to Utilize Disability Support Services: A Qualitative Investigation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Meyer, Rachel Heather

2012-01-01

The current study investigated the motivation of college students with disabilities to disclose their disability(s) to the university and to utilize disability support services. Eleven college students with a diversity of invisible disabilities from a large university were interviewed using a narrative approach. Analysis involved a combination of…

Faculty Challenges and Barriers for Research and Publication in Tajik Higher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kataeva, Zumrad; DeYoung, Alan J.

2018-01-01

This article investigates the current state of faculty research activity within Tajik higher education institutions (HEIs), where the level of research productivity has substantially decreased in the past three decades. As part of a larger ethnographic study on professional lives of Tajik faculty members, we investigated and found enormous…

Motor Coordination and Social-Emotional Behaviour in Preschool-Aged Children

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Piek, Jan P.; Bradbury, Greer S.; Elsley, Sharon C.; Tate, Lucinda

2008-01-01

School-age children with movement problems such as Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) are known to have social and emotional difficulties. However, little research has investigated younger children to determine whether these problems emerge at school age or are present earlier. The aim of the current study was to investigate the…

Investigating Arabic Academic Vocabulary Knowledge among Middle School Pupils: Receptive versus Productive Knowledge

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Makhoul, Baha

2017-01-01

The current study attempted to investigate the development of Arabic academic vocabulary knowledge among middle-school Arabic native speakers, taking into account the socioeconomic status of the Arab population in Israel. For this purpose, Arabic academic word list was developed, mapping the required academic words that are needed for adequate…

Lifelong Learning in Artistic Context Mediated by Advanced Technologies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ferrari, Mirella

2016-01-01

This research starts by analysing the current state of artistic heritage in Italy and studying some examples in Europe: we try to investigate the scope of non-formal learning in artistic context, mediated by advanced technology. The framework within which we have placed our investigation is that of lifelong learning and lifedeep learning. The…

An Investigation of Perceptional Differences between Eastern and Western Adolescents in Online Social Communication

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zheng, Robert

2013-01-01

The current study focused on an important issue pertaining to online social communication by investigating perceptional differences between eastern and western adolescents. A total of 309 participants were recruited from three countries: China, Singapore, and the United States. Significant differences were found between eastern and western…

Second Language Comprehensibility Revisited: Investigating the Effects of Learner Background

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crowther, Dustin; Trofimovich, Pavel; Saito, Kazuya; Isaacs, Talia

2015-01-01

The current study investigated first language (L1) effects on listener judgment of comprehensibility and accentedness in second language (L2) speech. The participants were 45 university-level adult speakers of English from three L1 backgrounds (Chinese, Hindi, Farsi), performing a picture narrative task. Ten native English listeners used…

A Randomized Trial Investigating the Effect of a Brief Lifestyle Intervention on Freshman-Year Weight Gain

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Middleton, Kathryn R.; Perri, Michael G.

2014-01-01

Objective: The current study was a randomized controlled trial investigating the effect of an innovative, short-term lifestyle intervention on weight gain in female freshman college students. Participants: Ninety-five freshmen were recruited from a large public university in the United States. Methods: Participants completed baseline assessments…

Teachers' Thoughts on Teaching Reading: An Investigation of Early Childhood Teachers' Perceptions of Literacy Acquisition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Giles, Rebecca M.; Tunks, Karyn

2015-01-01

Teachers' assumptions about teaching and learning have a critical impact on pedagogical practices. This study was conducted to investigate the perceptions of early childhood educators regarding children's acquisition of literacy in an attempt to gain a picture of current instructional practices. Prekindergarten through second grade teachers…

Electroluminescence and electrical degradation of insulating polymers at electrode interfaces under divergent fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Shuai; Li, Qi; Hu, Jun; Zhang, Bo; He, Jinliang

2018-04-01

Electrical degradation of insulating polymers at electrode interfaces is an essential factor in determining long-term reliability. A critical challenge is that the exact mechanism of degradation is not fully understood, either experimentally or theoretically, due to the inherent complex processes. Consequently, in this study, we investigate electroluminescence (EL) at the interface of an electrode and insulator, and determine the relationship between EL and electrical degradation. Using a tip-plate electrode structure, the unique features of EL under a highly divergent field are investigated. The voltage type (alternating or direct current), the polymer matrix, and the time of pressing are also investigated separately. A study of EL from insulators under a divergent field is provided, and the relationship between EL spectra and degradation is discussed. It is shown that EL spectra under a divergent field have unique characteristics compared with EL spectra from polymer films under a uniform field and the most obvious one is the UV emission. The results obtained in the current investigation bring us a step closer to understanding the process of electrical degradation and provide a potential way to diagnose insulator defects.

Reactor Physics Scoping and Characterization Study on Implementation of TRIGA Fuel in the Advanced Test Reactor

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

Jennifer Lyons; Wade R. Marcum; Mark D. DeHart

2014-01-01

The Advanced Test Reactor (ATR), under the Reduced Enrichment for Research and Test Reactors (RERTR) Program and the Global Threat Reduction Initiative (GTRI), is conducting feasibility studies for the conversion of its fuel from a highly enriched uranium (HEU) composition to a low enriched uranium (LEU) composition. These studies have considered a wide variety of LEU plate-type fuels to replace the current HEU fuel. Continuing to investigate potential alternatives to the present HEU fuel form, this study presents a preliminary analysis of TRIGA® fuel within the current ATR fuel envelopes and compares it to the functional requirements delineated by themore » Naval Reactors Program, which includes: greater than 4.8E+14 fissions/s/g of 235U, a fast to thermal neutron flux ratio that is less than 5% deviation of its current value, a constant cycle power within the corner lobes, and an operational cycle length of 56 days at 120 MW. Other parameters outside those put forth by the Naval Reactors Program which are investigated herein include axial and radial power profiles, effective delayed neutron fraction, and mean neutron generation time.« less

Study of local currents in low dimension materials using complex injecting potentials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

He, Shenglai; Covington, Cody; Varga, Kálmán

2018-04-01

A complex potential is constructed to inject electrons into the conduction band, mimicking electron currents in nanoscale systems. The injected electrons are time propagated until a steady state is reached. The local current density can then be calculated to show the path of the conducting electrons on an atomistic level. The method allows for the calculation of the current density vectors within the medium as a function of energy of the conducting electron. Using this method, we investigate the electron pathway of graphene nanoribbons in various structures, molecular junctions, and black phosphorus nanoribbons. By analyzing the current flow through the structures, we find strong dependence on the structural geometry and the energy of the injected electrons. This method may be of general use in the study of nano-electronic materials and interfaces.

The California general plan process and sustainable transportation planning

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2001-11-01

This study reviewed the current and potential utility of California's General Plan process as a tool for promoting more sustainable local transportation systems The study used multiple methods to investigate this issue, including: 1. An extensive lit...

Thermal effects on current-related skyrmion formation in a nanobelt

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Xuebing; Wang, Shasha; Wang, Chao; Che, Renchao

2018-05-01

We report an in-situ Lorentz transmission electron microscopy (LTEM) investigation to study the thermal effects on the generation of magnetic skyrmions within a nanobelt. Under an action of a moderate current pulse, magnetic skyrmions appear even in the temperature range far below the critical temperature and even at zero field. Finite element simulation reveals that the Joule heating plays an essential role in this behavior. Our results also uncover the importance of the cooling conditions in the current-related in situ LTEM research.

PRELIMINARY FINDINGS FROM THE NERL RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK PARTICULATE MATTER PANEL STUDY

EPA Science Inventory

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is currently conducting the National Exposure Research Laboratory (NERL) Research Triangle Park (RTP) Particulate Matter (PM) Panel Study. This study represents a one year investigation of PM and related co-pollutants involving two dist...

Cortisol levels in fingernails, neurocognitive performance and clinical variables in euthymic bipolar I disorder.

PubMed

Herane-Vives, Andres; Cleare, Anthony J; Chang, Chin-Kuo; de Angel, Valeria; Papadopoulos, Andrew; Fischer, Susanne; Halari, Rozmin; Cheung, Eric Y W; Young, Allan H

2017-03-27

Neurocognitive impairment has been found in bipolar patients. Hypercortisolemia is one possible cause but there has been no agreement on this. Previous sampling methods assessed only acute cortisol levels, whereas the association between cortisol and psychopathology might be better understood by investigating chronic levels. Fingernails are a novel method for measuring chronic cortisol concentration (CCC). Here, we measured CCC in euthymic bipolar disorder I (BD-I) patients and healthy controls using fingernails to investigate whether differences in CCC influenced neurocognitive performance. We also investigated whether differences in clinical illness variables influenced CCC in euthymic BD-I patients. A previous study demonstrated neurocognitive impairment in euthymic BD-I patients. The current study included a portion of this sample: 40 BD-I versus 42 matched controls who provided fingernail samples. There was no statistically significant difference in CCC between controls and BD-I (P = .09). Logistic regression analyses revealed that euthymic bipolar I subjects with more than five years of current euthymia had decreased odds of having higher fingernail cortisol concentration (>71.2 pg/mg) compared to those with less than 1.5 years (P = .04). There was no association between CCC and cognitive impairment in all domains before and after adjustment for age and sex. The current evidence suggests CCC is not a trait biomarker in euthymic BD-I (BD-I). Longer periods of stability in affective disorders are associated with lower CCC. Fingernail cortisol does not seem to be implicated in neurocognitive impairment and BD-I. Future studies may investigate CCC in different illness phases of BD-I.

MHD Studies of Advanced Tokamak Equilibria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strumberger, E.

2005-10-01

Advanced tokamak scenarios are often characterized by an extremely reversed profile of the safety factor, q, and a fast toroidal rotation. ASDEX Upgrade type equilibria with toroidal flow are computed up to a toroidal Mach number of Mta= 0.5, and compared with the static solution. Using these equilibria, the stabilizing effect of differential toroidal rotation on double tearing modes (DTMs) is investigated. These studies show that the computation of equilibria with flow is necessary for toroidally rotating plasma with Mta>=0.2. The use of ρtor instead of ρpol as radial coordinate enables us also to investigate the stability of equilibria with current holes. For numerical reasons, the rotational transform, = 1/q, has to be unequal zero in the CASTOR$FLOW code, but values of a>=0.001 (qa<=1000) can be easily handled. Stability studies of DTMs in the presence of a current hole are presented. Tokamak equilibria are only approximately axisymmetric. The finite number of toroidal field coils destroys the perfect axisymmetry of the device, and the coils produce a short wavelength ripple in the magnetic field strength. This toroidal field ripple plays a crucial role for the loss of high energy particles. Therefore, three-dimensional tokamak equilibria with and without current holes are computed for various plasma beta values. In addition the influence of the plasma beta on the toroidal field ripple is investigated.

2-diethylaminoethyl-dextran methyl methacrylate copolymer nonviral vector: still a long way toward the safety of aerosol gene therapy.

PubMed

Zarogoulidis, P; Hohenforst-Schmidt, W; Darwiche, K; Krauss, L; Sparopoulou, D; Sakkas, L; Gschwendtner, A; Huang, H; Turner, F J; Freitag, L; Zarogoulidis, K

2013-10-01

Revealing the lung tumor genome has directed the current treatment strategies toward targeted therapy. First line treatments targeting the genome of lung tumor cells have been approved and are on the market. However, they are limited by the small number of patients with the current investigated genetic mutations. Novel treatment administration modalities have been also investigated in an effort to increase the local drug deposition and disease control. In the current study, we investigated the safety of the new nonviral vector 2-diethylaminoethyl-dextran methyl methacrylate copolymer (DDMC; Ryujyu Science), which belongs to the 2-diethylaminoethyl-dextran family by aerosol administration. Thirty male BALBC mice, 2 month old, were included and divided into three groups. However, pathological findings indicated severe emphysema within three aerosol sessions. In addition, the CytoViva technique was applied for the first time to display the nonviral particles within the pulmonary tissue and emphysema lesions, and a spectral library of the nonviral vector was also established. Although our results in BALBC mice prevented us from further investigation of the DDMC nonviral vector as a vehicle for gene therapy, further investigation in animals with larger airways is warranted to properly evaluate the safety of the vector.

[Support Team for Investigator-Initiated Clinical Research].

PubMed

Fujii, Hisako

2017-07-01

Investigator-initiated clinical research is that in which investigators plan and carry out their own clinical research in academia. For large-scale clinical research, a team should be organized and implemented. This team should include investigators and supporting staff, who will promote smooth research performance by fulfilling their respective roles. The supporting staff should include project managers, administrative personnel, billing personnel, data managers, and clinical research coordinators. In this article, I will present the current status of clinical research support and introduce the research organization of the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network (DIAN) study, an investigator-initiated international clinical research study, with particular emphasis on the role of the project management staff and clinical research coordinators.

Bringing Reading-to-Write and Writing-Only Assessment Tasks Together: A Generalizability Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gebril, Atta

2010-01-01

Integrated tasks are currently employed in a number of L2 exams since they are perceived as an addition to the writing-only task type. Given this trend, the current study investigates composite score generalizability of both reading-to-write and writing-only tasks. For this purpose, a multivariate generalizability analysis is used to investigate…

Effects of Collaborative Consultative Services for Students Who Are Deaf and Hard of Hearing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kiske, Katie

2017-01-01

The purpose of this research was to determine the perception of consultative services as well as the self-efficacy of both teachers of the deaf and general education teachers that work with students who are D/HH. This study investigated current perceptions and attitudes as well as identified trends in current consultative practice between teachers…

Determinants of Young Australians' Environmental Actions: The Role of Responsibility Attributions, Locus of Control, Knowledge and Attitudes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fielding, Kelly S.; Head, Brian W.

2012-01-01

The current study investigates determinants of young Australians' pro-environmental intentions and actions. Two samples of young people took part in the research: 12-17-year-olds (N = 1529) currently in secondary schooling and 18-24-year-olds (N = 2192) in post-secondary schooling or workforce. All participants completed an online "Youth and…

Place of Diversity in the Current Ethiopian Education and Training Policy: Analysis of Cardinal Dimensions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sime, Tariku; Latchanna, Gara

2016-01-01

The purpose of this paper was to investigate to what extent the diversity dimensions are addressed in the current Education and Training Policy. To that end, document analysis was employed. The major diversity dimensions were analyzed based on their cardinal features. The study demonstrated that there is an ambitious need to address issues of…

Parent Experiences with State Child Care Subsidy Systems and Their Perceptions of Choice and Quality in Care Selected

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Raikes, Helen; Torquati, Julia; Wang, Cixin; Shjegstad, Brinn

2012-01-01

Research Findings: This study investigated parents' experiences using Child Care and Development Fund and other state-dispersed child care subsidies, reasons for choosing their current child care program, and perceptions of the quality of child care received from their current program. A telephone survey of 659 parents receiving child care…

Anticipated Guilt as Behavioral Motivation: An Examination of Appeals to Help Unknown Others through Bone Marrow Donation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lindsey, Lisa L. Massi

2005-01-01

The current study posits that messages used to elicit behaviors to help unknown others must present substantial perceptions of a threat and efficacy to be successful. Given that many prosocial helping messages depict a threat to unknown others, the current investigation proposed that anticipated guilt is a motivating force behind individuals'…

Reconnaissance Data Recording Study

DTIC Science & Technology

1996-02-15

Sources The data sources listed are those sources that are currently being used for the Advanced Tactical Air Reconnaissance System ( ATARS ). This sensor...technology is about 10 years old (circa 1985). Current sensor technology is evolving towards farming type systems versus the ATARS pushbroom systems...Reconnaissance System ( ATARS ) or any Tactical Reconnaissance System (TRS). The emphasis of this analysis was to investigate the application of the Sony

Dimensional Structure of the Autism Phenotype: Relations between Early Development and Current Presentation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kamp-Becker, Inge; Ghahreman, Mardjan; Smidt, Judith; Remschmidt, Helmut

2009-01-01

The dimensional structure of higher functioning autism phenotype was investigated by factor analysis. The goal of this study was to identify the degree to which early symptoms of autism (measured using the ADI-R) could be predictive of the current symptoms of autism as identified using the ADOS, the adaptive behavior scales, IQ scores and theory…

Studying for Success: Diaries of Students' Study Behaviours

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tomes, Jennifer L.; Wasylkiw, Louise; Mockler, Brittany

2011-01-01

The current study examined students' study behaviours using a diary methodology. Given the limitations of previous investigations, participants were asked to complete daily study diaries for 10 days prior to a course test to assess students' actual study behaviours. Results showed that students engaged in a diverse set of behaviours with only some…

Cost/benefit trade-offs for reducing the energy consumption of commercial air transportation (RECAT)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gobetz, F. W.; Dubin, A. P.

1976-01-01

A study has been performed to evaluate the opportunities for reducing the energy requirements of the U.S. domestic air passenger transport system through improved operational techniques, modified in-service aircraft, derivatives of current production models, or new aircraft using either current or advanced technology. Each of the fuel-conserving alternatives has been investigated individually to test its potential for fuel conservation relative to a hypothetical baseline case in which current, in-production aircraft types are assumed to operate, without modification and with current operational techniques, into the future out to the year 2000.

Development and investigation of silicon converter beta radiation 63Ni isotope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krasnov, A. A.; Legotin, S. A.; Murashev, V. N.; Didenko, S. I.; Rabinovich, O. I.; Yurchuk, S. Yu; Omelchenko, Yu K.; Yakimov, E. B.; Starkov, V. V.

2016-02-01

In this paper the results of the creation and researching characteristics of, experimental betavoltaic converters (BVC), based on silicon are discussed. It was presented the features of structural and technological performance of planar 2 D- structure of BVC. To study the parameters of the converter stream the beta particles of the radioisotope was simulated by 63Ni electron flux from scanning electron microscope. It was investigated the dependence of the collecting electrons efficiency from the beam energy current-voltage characteristic was measured when irradiated by an electron beam, from which the value of the short-circuit current density equal to 126 nA / cm2 and the value of the open circuit voltage of 150 mV were obtained. The maximum power density at 70 mV is 9.5 nW / cm2, and the conversion efficiency is 2.1%. It was presented the results of experimental studies of the current-voltage characteristics of samples by irradiating a film 63Ni. The values of load voltage 111 mV and short circuit current density of 27 nA / cm2 were obtained. Maximum power density was 1.52 nW / cm2.

Educational Research in Palestine: Epistemological and Cultural Challenges--A Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Khalifah, Ayman A.

2010-01-01

This study investigates the prevailing epistemological and cultural conditions that underlie educational research in Palestine. Using a case study of a major Palestinian University that awards Masters Degrees in Education, the study analyzes the assumptions and the methodology that characterizes current educational research. Using an analysis of…

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

Jiang, Zhenyu, E-mail: jiangzhenyu1201@hotmail.com, E-mail: jianxu@engr.psu.edu; Liu, Yan; Mo, Chen

In an attempt to suppress the dark current, the barrier layer engineer for solution-processed PbSe colloidal quantum-dot (CQD) photodetectors has been investigated in the present study. It was found that the dark current can be significantly suppressed by implementing two types of carrier blocking layers, namely, hole blocking layer and electron blocking layer, sandwiched in between two active PbSe CQD layers. Meanwhile no adverse impact has been observed for the photo current. Our study suggests that this improvement resides on the transport pathway created via carrier recombination at intermediate layer, which provides wide implications for the suppression of dark currentmore » for infrared photodetectors.« less

Cytostatic response of HepG2 to 0.57 MHz electric currents mediated by changes in cell cycle control proteins.

PubMed

Hernández-Bule, María Luisa; Cid, María Antonia; Trillo, María Angeles; Leal, Jocelyne; Ubeda, Alejandro

2010-12-01

The capacitive-resistive electric transfer (CRet) therapy is a non-invasive technique that applies electrical currents of 0.4-0.6 MHz to the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries. Although this therapy has proved effective in clinical studies, its interaction mechanisms at the cellular level still are insufficiently investigated. Results from previous studies have shown that the application of CRet currents at subthermal doses causes alterations in cell cycle progression and decreased proliferation in hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) and neuroblastoma (NB69) human cell lines. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antiproliferative response of HepG2 to CRet currents. The results showed that 24-h intermittent treatment with 50 µA/mm(2) current density induced in HepG2 statistically significant changes in expression and activation of cell cycle control proteins p27Kip1 and cyclins D1, A and B1. The chronology of these changes is coherent with that of the alterations reported in the cell cycle of HepG2 when exposed to the same electric treatment. We propose that the antiproliferative effect exerted by the electric stimulus would be primarily mediated by changes in the expression and activation of proteins intervening in cell cycle regulation, which are among the targets of emerging chemical therapies. The capability to arrest the cell cycle through electrically-induced changes in cell cycle control proteins might open new possibilities in the field of oncology.

Real-Time Amperometric Recording of Extracellular H2O2 in the Brain of Immunocompromised Mice: An In Vitro, Ex Vivo and In Vivo Characterisation Study

PubMed Central

Reid, Caroline H.; Finnerty, Niall J.

2017-01-01

We detail an extensive characterisation study on a previously described dual amperometric H2O2 biosensor consisting of H2O2 detection (blank) and degradation (catalase) electrodes. In vitro investigations demonstrated excellent H2O2 sensitivity and selectivity against the interferent, ascorbic acid. Ex vivo studies were performed to mimic physiological conditions prior to in vivo deployment. Exposure to brain tissue homogenate identified reliable sensitivity and selectivity recordings up to seven days for both blank and catalase electrodes. Furthermore, there was no compromise in pre- and post-implanted catalase electrode sensitivity in ex vivo mouse brain. In vivo investigations performed in anaesthetised mice confirmed the ability of the H2O2 biosensor to detect increases in amperometric current following locally perfused/infused H2O2 and antioxidant inhibitors mercaptosuccinic acid and sodium azide. Subsequent recordings in freely moving mice identified negligible effects of control saline and sodium ascorbate interference injections on amperometric H2O2 current. Furthermore, the stability of the amperometric current was confirmed over a five-day period and analysis of 24-h signal recordings identified the absence of diurnal variations in amperometric current. Collectively, these findings confirm the biosensor current responds in vivo to increasing exogenous and endogenous H2O2 and tentatively supports measurement of H2O2 dynamics in freely moving NOD SCID mice. PMID:28698470

Growth mechanism of surface roughed platinum nanowires through electrodeposition current control and their electrochemical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ruan, Dajiang

The aim of this work is to investigate the effect of current density on the grain size and surface morphology of electrodeposited platinum nanowires and their applications. Platinum (Pt) nanowires were fabricated by a galvanostatic electrodeposition method in a porous anodic alumina oxide (AAO) template with different current densities. Both direct current and pulse current electrodeposition were used to synthesize the Pt nanowires. The grain size and surface morphology of the Pt nanowires were studied by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microcopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The experimental results showed that the current density was the key factor to control the surface roughness. The surface of the Pt nanowires became rougher and the grain sizes were increased by increasing the current densities. From the experimental results, a growth mechanism of Pt nanowires based on progressive nucleation and crystallization was proposed in order to find out the relationship between the surface morphology and current density. The electrochemical properties and catalytic activities of these surface roughed Pt nanowires were investigated in the detection of H20 2 and for the methanol oxidation. Cyclic voltammograms of Pt nanowire modified electrodes were obtained using a potentiostat, which showed that rougher Pt nanowires have higher response and better activity than that of smooth nanowires. For H202 detection, the effect of scan rate and H202 concentration were studied and it was found that the peak current for hydrogen peroxide reduction became larger with the increasing of either scan rate or H202 concentration. It can be inferred that the process of electrocatalytic hydrogen peroxide reduction may be controlled by diffusion of hydrogen peroxide and the Pt nanowire modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) is well suited for the detection of H202. From the relationship between the peak current and square root of scan rates for methanol oxidation, it can be inferred that the process of electrocatalytic methanol oxidation was controlled by diffusion of methanol. To understand the effect of the morphological feature on the electrocatalytic activity of the Pt nanowire catalysts, the electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) as a function of deposited current density was investigated, which suggests that Pt nanowire catalysts deposited at highest current density had the most ECSA surface morphology of the Pt nanowires. The chronoamperometric curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) results confirmed that the Pt nanowire catalyst synthesized at higher current density possessed longer durability and gave more efficient electrochemical performance.

Comparative investigation of vibration and current monitoring for prediction of mechanical and electrical faults in induction motor based on multiclass-support vector machine algorithms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gangsar, Purushottam; Tiwari, Rajiv

2017-09-01

This paper presents an investigation of vibration and current monitoring for effective fault prediction in induction motor (IM) by using multiclass support vector machine (MSVM) algorithms. Failures of IM may occur due to propagation of a mechanical or electrical fault. Hence, for timely detection of these faults, the vibration as well as current signals was acquired after multiple experiments of varying speeds and external torques from an experimental test rig. Here, total ten different fault conditions that frequently encountered in IM (four mechanical fault, five electrical fault conditions and one no defect condition) have been considered. In the case of stator winding fault, and phase unbalance and single phasing fault, different level of severity were also considered for the prediction. In this study, the identification has been performed of the mechanical and electrical faults, individually and collectively. Fault predictions have been performed using vibration signal alone, current signal alone and vibration-current signal concurrently. The one-versus-one MSVM has been trained at various operating conditions of IM using the radial basis function (RBF) kernel and tested for same conditions, which gives the result in the form of percentage fault prediction. The prediction performance is investigated for the wide range of RBF kernel parameter, i.e. gamma, and selected the best result for one optimal value of gamma for each case. Fault predictions has been performed and investigated for the wide range of operational speeds of the IM as well as external torques on the IM.

Modeling of RF/MHD coupling using NIMROD and GENRAY

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jenkins, Thomas G.; Schnack, D. D.; Sovinec, C. R.; Hegna, C. C.; Callen, J. D.; Ebrahimi, F.; Kruger, S. E.; Carlsson, J.; Held, E. D.; Ji, J.-Y.; Harvey, R. W.; Smirnov, A. P.

2008-11-01

We summarize ongoing theoretical/numerical work relevant to the development of a self--consistent framework for the inclusion of RF effects in fluid simulations, specifically considering the stabilization of resistive tearing modes in tokamak (DIII--D--like) geometry by electron cyclotron current drive. Previous investigations [T. G. Jenkins et al., Bull. APS 52, 131 (2007)] have demonstrated that relatively simple (though non--self--consistent) models for the RF--induced currents can be incorporated into the fluid equations, and that these currents can markedly reduce the width of the nonlinearly saturated magnetic islands generated by tearing modes. We report our progress toward the self--consistent modeling of these RF--induced currents. The initial interfacing of the NIMROD* code with the GENRAY/CQL3D** codes (which calculate RF propagation and energy/momentum deposition) is explained, equilibration of RF--induced currents over the plasma flux surfaces is investigated, and initial studies exploring the efficient reduction of saturated island widths through time modulation of the ECCD are presented. Conducted as part of the SWIM*** project; funded by U. S. DoE. *www.nimrodteam.org **www.compxco.com ***www.cswim.org

Primer: establishing a clinical trial unit--obtaining studies and patients.

PubMed

Fleischmann, Roy

2007-08-01

Rheumatologists with clinical expertise should perform clinical investigations of new molecules in an effort to discover therapies that could be of greater benefit or safety than those currently available for patients with chronic rheumatic diseases. Over the past few years, many studies have been conducted outside the United States and Europe because of the dearth of investigative sites in these countries. A clinician, whether in private practice or academia, who has the resources and desire to conduct clinical investigations, should be able to become involved in the process. The task of starting a new investigative unit is daunting, as it involves acquiring studies, hiring staff and obtaining space prior to any cash flow. If done properly, however, clinical investigation can be rewarding--both intellectually and financially.

The investigation of bandwidth efficient coding and modulation techniques

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1992-01-01

The New Mexico State University Center for Space Telemetering and Telecommunications systems has been, and is currently, engaged in the investigation of trellis-coded modulation (TCM) communication systems. In particular, TCM utilizing M-ary phase shift keying is being studied. The study of carrier synchronization in a TCM environment, or in MPSK systems in general, has been one of the two main thrusts of this grant. This study has involved both theoretical modelling and software simulation of the carrier synchronization problem.

Curious Case of Positive Current Collectors: Corrosion and Passivation at High Temperature.

PubMed

Sayed, Farheen N; Rodrigues, Marco-Tulio F; Kalaga, Kaushik; Gullapalli, Hemtej; Ajayan, P M

2017-12-20

In the evaluation of compatibility of different components of cell for high-energy and extreme-conditions applications, the highly focused are positive and negative electrodes and their interaction with electrolyte. However, for high-temperature application, the other components are also of significant influence and contribute toward the total health of battery. In present study, we have investigated the behavior of aluminum, the most common current collector for positive electrode materials for its electrochemical and temperature stability. For electrochemical stability, different electrolytes, organic and room temperature ionic liquids with varying Li salts (LiTFSI, LiFSI), are investigated. The combination of electrochemical and spectroscopic investigations reflects the varying mechanism of passivation at room and high temperature, as different compositions of decomposed complexes are found at the surface of metals.

An investigation of environmental factors associated with the current and proposed jetty systems at Belle Pass, Louisiana

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dantin, E. J.; Whitehurst, C. A.; Durbin, W. T.

1974-01-01

The history of the existing jetty system at Belle Pass was investigated to determine its past effect on the littoral currents and beach erosion. Present flow patterns and erosion rates were also studied, along with the prevailing recession rates of local beaches not influenced by the jetty system. Aerial photographs and maps were used in conjunction with periodic hydraulic measurements, ground observations, and physical measurements of beach erosion. A scale model was constructed to further the study of flow patterns and velocities. It is shown that the existing jetty has not adversely affected the coastline in the area; erosive processes have been retarded by the jetty and its companion groin. Future erosion patterns are predicted, and projected effects of the proposed jetty system are given.

Levetiracetam-loaded biodegradable polymer implants in the tetanus toxin model of temporal lobe epilepsy in rats.

PubMed

Halliday, Amy J; Campbell, Toni E; Nelson, Timothy S; McLean, Karen J; Wallace, Gordon G; Cook, Mark J

2013-01-01

Approximately one-third of people with epilepsy receive insufficient benefit from currently available anticonvulsant medication, and some evidence suggests that this may be due to a lack of effective penetration into brain parenchyma. The current study investigated the ability of biodegradable polymer implants loaded with levetiracetam to ameliorate seizures following implantation above the motor cortex in the tetanus toxin model of temporal lobe epilepsy in rats. The implants led to significantly shorter seizures and a trend towards fewer seizures for up to 1 week. The results of this study indicate that drug-eluting polymer implants represent a promising evolving treatment option for intractable epilepsy. Future research is warranted to investigate issues of device longevity and implantation site. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Study Abroad in Psychology: Increasing Cultural Competencies through Experiential Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Earnest, David R.; Rosenbusch, Katherine; Wallace-Williams, Devin; Keim, Alaina C.

2016-01-01

Despite the prominence of study abroad programs, few are offered in the field of psychology. The current study sought to investigate the impact of study abroad programs in psychology through a comparison of study abroad and domestic student cultural competencies. Participants included 104 undergraduate students enrolled in either a psychology…

Women Studies in Engineering Education: Content Analysis in Three Referred Journals

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chou, Pao-Nan

2013-01-01

Little is known about the research characteristics of past women studies in engineering education. In order to add knowledge base about the advanced development of women studies in current engineering education research, the purpose of the study is to investigate research characteristics of past women studies published in three referred…

Facilities and Methods Used in Full-scale Airplane Crash-fire Investigation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Black, Dugald O.

1952-01-01

The facilities and the techniques employed in the conduct of full scale airplane crash-fire studies currently being conducted at the NACA Lewis laboratory are discussed herein. This investigation is part of a comprehensive study of the airplane crash-fire problem. The crash configuration chosen, the general physical layout of the crash site, the test methods, the instrumentation, the data-recording systems, and the post-crash examination procedure are described

The UAV: A unique platform for electrodynamic studies of upward lightning in the middle atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldberg, Richard A.; Desch, Michael D.; Farrell, William M.

1997-01-01

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), a platform for investigations in an environment hostile to manned spacecraft, is discussed. A program which includes the use of UAVs coupled with ground-based measurements to conduct scientific studies on the electrical state of the atmosphere during electrically active periods is proposed. The radiating power from alternate current and transient components of the storm electrification was investigated.

Rip current monitoring using GPS buoy system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, DongSeob; Kim, InHo; Kang, DongSoo

2014-05-01

The occurrence of rip current in the Haeundae beach, which is one of the most famous beaches in South Korea, has been threatening beach-goers security in summer season annually. Many coastal scientists have been investigating rip currents by using field observations and measurements, laboratory measurements and wave tank experiments, and computer and numerical modeling. Rip current velocity is intermittent and may rapidly increase within minutes due to larger incoming wave groups or nearshore circulation instabilities. It is important to understand that changes in rip current velocity occur in response to changes in incoming wave height and period as well as changes in water level. GPS buoys have been used to acquire sea level change data, atmospheric parameters and other oceanic variables in sea for the purposes of vertical datum determination, tide correction, radar altimeter calibration, ocean environment and marine pollution monitoring. Therefore, we adopted GPS buoy system for an experiment which is to investigate rip current velocity; it is sporadic and may quickly upsurge within minutes due to larger arriving wave groups or nearshore flow uncertainties. In this study, for high accurate positioning of buy equipment, a Satellite Based Argumentation System DGPS data logger was deployed to investigate within floating object, and it can be acquired three-dimensional coordinate or geodetic position of buoy with continuous NMEA-0183 protocol during 24 hours. The wave height measured by in-situ hydrometer in a cross-shore array clearly increased before and after occurrence of rip current, and wave period also was lengthened around an event. These results show that wave height and period correlate reasonably well with long-shore current interaction in the Haeundae beach. Additionally, current meter data and GPS buoy data showed that rip current velocities, about 0.2 m/s, may become dangerously strong under specific conditions. Acknowledgement This research was supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF) funded by the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology(2010-0024670)

Investigating Prompt Fission Neutron Emission from 235U(n,f) in the Resolved Resonance Region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Göök, Alf; Hambsch, Franz-Josef; Oberstedt, Stephan

2016-03-01

Investigations of prompt emission in fission is of importance in understanding the fission process in general and the sharing of excitation energy among the fission fragments in particular. Experimental activities at IRMM on prompt neutron emission from fission in response to OECD/NEA nuclear data requests is presented in this contribution. Main focus lies on currently on-going investigations of prompt neutron emission from the reaction 235U(n,f) in the region of the resolved resonances. For this reaction strong fluctuations of fission fragment mass distributions and mean total kinetic energy have been observed [Nucl. Phys. A 491, 56 (1989)] as a function of incident neutron energy in the resonance region. In addition fluctuations of prompt neutron multiplicities were also observed [Phys. Rev. C 13, 195 (1976)]. The goal of the present study is to verify the current knowledge of prompt neutron multiplicity fluctuations and to study correlations with fission fragment properties.

Is animal cruelty a "red flag" for family violence? Investigating co-occurring violence toward children, partners, and pets.

PubMed

Degue, Sarah; Dilillo, David

2009-06-01

Cross-reporting legislation, which permits child and animal welfare investigators to refer families with substantiated child maltreatment or animal cruelty for investigation by parallel agencies, has recently been adopted in several U.S. jurisdictions. The current study sheds light on the underlying assumption of these policies-that animal cruelty and family violence commonly co-occur. Exposure to family violence and animal cruelty is retrospectively assessed using a sample of 860 college students. Results suggest that animal abuse may be a red flag indicative of family violence in the home. Specifically, about 60% of participants who have witnessed or perpetrated animal cruelty as a child also report experiences with child maltreatment or domestic violence. Differential patterns of association were revealed between childhood victimization experiences and the type of animal cruelty exposure reported. This study extends current knowledge of the links between animal- and human-directed violence and provides initial support for the premise of cross-reporting legislation.

Transient current induced in thin film diamonds by swift heavy ions

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

Sato, Shin-ichiro; Makino, Takahiro; Ohshima, Takeshi

Single crystal diamond is a suitable material for the next generation particle detectors because of the superior electrical properties and the high radiation tolerance. In order to investigate charge transport properties of diamond particle detectors, transient currents generated in diamonds by single swift heavy ions (26 MeV O 5 + and 45 MeV Si 7 +) are investigated. We also measured two dimensional maps of transient currents by single ion hits. In the case of 50 μm-thick diamond, both the signal height and the collected charge are reduced by the subsequent ion hits and the charge collection time is extended.more » Our results are thought to be attributable to the polarization effect in diamond and it appears only when the transient current is dominated by hole current. In the case of 6 μm-thick diamond membrane, an “island” structure is found in the 2D map of transient currents. Signals in the islands shows different applied bias dependence from signals in other regions, indicating different crystal and/or metal contact quality. Simulation study of transient currents based on the Shockley-Ramo theorem clarifies that accumulation of space charges changes distribution of electric field in diamond and causes the polarization effect.« less

Transient current induced in thin film diamonds by swift heavy ions

DOE PAGES

Sato, Shin-ichiro; Makino, Takahiro; Ohshima, Takeshi; ...

2017-04-05

Single crystal diamond is a suitable material for the next generation particle detectors because of the superior electrical properties and the high radiation tolerance. In order to investigate charge transport properties of diamond particle detectors, transient currents generated in diamonds by single swift heavy ions (26 MeV O 5 + and 45 MeV Si 7 +) are investigated. We also measured two dimensional maps of transient currents by single ion hits. In the case of 50 μm-thick diamond, both the signal height and the collected charge are reduced by the subsequent ion hits and the charge collection time is extended.more » Our results are thought to be attributable to the polarization effect in diamond and it appears only when the transient current is dominated by hole current. In the case of 6 μm-thick diamond membrane, an “island” structure is found in the 2D map of transient currents. Signals in the islands shows different applied bias dependence from signals in other regions, indicating different crystal and/or metal contact quality. Simulation study of transient currents based on the Shockley-Ramo theorem clarifies that accumulation of space charges changes distribution of electric field in diamond and causes the polarization effect.« less

The science on front-of-package food labels.

PubMed

Hawley, Kristy L; Roberto, Christina A; Bragg, Marie A; Liu, Peggy J; Schwartz, Marlene B; Brownell, Kelly D

2013-03-01

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Institute of Medicine are currently investigating front-of-package (FOP) food labelling systems to provide science-based guidance to the food industry. The present paper reviews the literature on FOP labelling and supermarket shelf-labelling systems published or under review by February 2011 to inform current investigations and identify areas of future research. A structured search was undertaken of research studies on consumer use, understanding of, preference for, perception of and behaviours relating to FOP/shelf labelling published between January 2004 and February 2011. Twenty-eight studies from a structured search met inclusion criteria. Reviewed studies examined consumer preferences, understanding and use of different labelling systems as well as label impact on purchasing patterns and industry product reformulation. The findings indicate that the Multiple Traffic Light system has most consistently helped consumers identify healthier products; however, additional research on different labelling systems' abilities to influence consumer behaviour is needed.

The Role of Parvalbumin, Sarcoplasmatic Reticulum Calcium Pump Rate, Rates of Cross-Bridge Dynamics, and Ryanodine Receptor Calcium Current on Peripheral Muscle Fatigue: A Simulation Study

PubMed Central

Neumann, Verena

2016-01-01

A biophysical model of the excitation-contraction pathway, which has previously been validated for slow-twitch and fast-twitch skeletal muscles, is employed to investigate key biophysical processes leading to peripheral muscle fatigue. Special emphasis hereby is on investigating how the model's original parameter sets can be interpolated such that realistic behaviour with respect to contraction time and fatigue progression can be obtained for a continuous distribution of the model's parameters across the muscle units, as found for the functional properties of muscles. The parameters are divided into 5 groups describing (i) the sarcoplasmatic reticulum calcium pump rate, (ii) the cross-bridge dynamics rates, (iii) the ryanodine receptor calcium current, (iv) the rates of binding of magnesium and calcium ions to parvalbumin and corresponding dissociations, and (v) the remaining processes. The simulations reveal that the first two parameter groups are sensitive to contraction time but not fatigue, the third parameter group affects both considered properties, and the fourth parameter group is only sensitive to fatigue progression. Hence, within the scope of the underlying model, further experimental studies should investigate parvalbumin dynamics and the ryanodine receptor calcium current to enhance the understanding of peripheral muscle fatigue. PMID:27980606

Simulation and optimization of deep violet InGaN double quantum well laser

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alahyarizadeh, Gh.; Ghazai, A. J.; Rahmani, R.; Mahmodi, H.; Hassan, Z.

2012-03-01

The performance characteristics of a deep violet InGaN double quantum well laser diode (LD) such as threshold current ( Ith), external differential quantum efficiency (DQE) and output power have been investigated using the Integrated System Engineering Technical Computer Aided Design (ISE-TCAD) software. As well as its operating parameters such as internal quantum efficiency ( ηi), internal loss ( αi) and transparency threshold current density ( J0) have been studied. Since, we are interested to investigate the mentioned characteristics and parameters independent of well and barrier thickness, therefore to reach a desired output wavelength, the indium mole fraction of wells and barriers has been varied consequently. The indium mole fractions of well and barrier layers have been considered 0.08 and 0.0, respectively. Some important parameters such as Al mole fraction of the electronic blocking layer (EBL) and cavity length which affect performance characteristics were also investigated. The optimum values of the Al mole fraction and cavity length in this study are 0.15 and 400 μm, respectively. The lowest threshold current, the highest DQE and output power which obtained at the emission wavelength of 391.5 nm are 43.199 mA, 44.99% and 10.334 mW, respectively.

Cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation in patients with ataxia: A double-blind, randomized, sham-controlled study.

PubMed

Benussi, Alberto; Koch, Giacomo; Cotelli, Maria; Padovani, Alessandro; Borroni, Barbara

2015-10-01

Numerous studies have highlighted the possibility of modulating the excitability of cerebellar circuits using transcranial direct current stimulation. The present study investigated whether a single session of cerebellar anodal transcranial direct current stimulation could improve symptoms in patients with ataxia. Nineteen patients with ataxia underwent a clinical and functional evaluation pre- and post-double-blind, randomized, sham, or anodal transcranial direct current stimulation. There was a significant interaction between treatment and time on the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia, on the International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale, on the 9-Hole Peg Test, and on the 8-Meter Walking Time (P < 0.001). At the end of the sessions, all performance scores were significantly different in the sham trial, compared to the intervention trial. A single session of anodal cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation can transiently improve symptoms in patients with ataxia and might represent a promising tool for future rehabilitative approaches. © 2015 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

An Investigation of Prospective Teachers' Attitudes toward Educational Reforms in Turkey

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Duman, Guler; Kural Baykan, Arin; Koroglu, Gamze Nevra; Yilmaz, Selda; Erdogan, Mehmet

2014-01-01

The main purpose of the present study is twofold: (a) to investigate the awareness and attitudes of prospective teachers from different departments and class levels regarding current educational reforms in Turkey and the reasons why they do or do not adhere to these reform activities, and (b) to gain thorough knowledge about information resources…

An Investigation of Students' Perceptions of Ethical Practice: Engaging a Reflective Dialogue about Ethics Education in the Health Professions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kinsella, Elizabeth Anne; Phelan, Shanon K.; Lala, Anna Park; Mom, Vanna

2015-01-01

The ethical climate in which occupational therapists, and other health practitioners, currently practice is increasingly complex. There have been a number of calls for greater attention to ethics education within health science curricula. This study investigated occupational therapy students' perceptions of the meaning of ethical practice as a…

An Investigation of Comorbid Psychological Disorders, Sleep Problems, Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Epilepsy in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mannion, Arlene; Leader, Geraldine; Healy, Olive

2013-01-01

The current study investigated comorbidity in eighty-nine children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Ireland. Comorbidity is the presence of one or more disorders in addition to a primary disorder. The prevalence of comorbid psychological disorders, behaviours associated with comorbid psychopathology, epilepsy, gastrointestinal…

Investigation of IRT-Based Equating Methods in the Presence of Outlier Common Items

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hu, Huiqin; Rogers, W. Todd; Vukmirovic, Zarko

2008-01-01

Common items with inconsistent b-parameter estimates may have a serious impact on item response theory (IRT)--based equating results. To find a better way to deal with the outlier common items with inconsistent b-parameters, the current study investigated the comparability of 10 variations of four IRT-based equating methods (i.e., concurrent…

Leadership-Driven Anger Management Groups for Adolescents: Do They Really Work?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burt, Isaac

2018-01-01

This study investigated a current trend in anger-management groups labeled as leadership development. The goal of the investigation was to determine if leadership is a critical factor in working with angry youth. A total of 52 middle school-aged adolescents from 2 schools served as participants. Of those, 18 participants received a strength-based,…

Investigation of Bias in Job Evaluation Ratings of Comparable Worth Study Participants.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mount, Michael K.; Ellis, Rebecca A.

1987-01-01

Investigated the effects of knowledge of current pay levels and perceived job gender on subsequent job evaluations. Confirmed the hypothesis that jobs with high pay levels would receive higher evaluations than jobs with low pay levels. Found evidence of a pro-female bias in the job evaluation ratings of 53 job evaluators. (Author/ABB)

"I Should Remember I Don't Want to become Fat": Adolescents' Views on Self-Regulatory Strategies for Healthy Eating

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stok, F. Marijn; de Vet, Emely; de Ridder, Denise T. D.; de Wit, John B. F.

2012-01-01

Few studies have investigated the strategies adolescents identify to self-regulate eating behavior. Aiming to address this gap in the literature, the current article describes a bottom-up investigation of strategies adolescents identify for the successful self-regulation of eating behavior. Sixty-two adolescents generated statements about…

A Preliminary Investigation of the Suitability of Aquatics for People with Severe and Profound Intellectual Disabilities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Aherne, Cian; Coughlan, Barry

2017-01-01

Background: Aquatics is an under-researched but possibly appropriate form of activity for people with severe to profound intellectual disabilities (SPIDs). Aim: The current pilot study investigates the suitability of an aquatics programme for service users with SPIDs. Method: Four service users with SPID completed an 8-12-session aquatics…

The Link between Age, Career Goals, and Adaptive Development for Work-Related Learning among Local Government Employees

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tones, Megan; Pillay, Hitendra; Kelly, Kathy

2011-01-01

More recently, lifespan development psychology models of adaptive development have been applied to the workforce to investigate ageing worker and lifespan issues. The current study uses the Learning and Development Survey (LDS) to investigate employee selection and engagement of learning and development goals and opportunities and constraints for…

An Open Trial Investigation of a Transdiagnostic Group Treatment for Children with Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bilek, Emily L.; Ehrenreich-May, Jill

2012-01-01

The current study investigates the feasibility and preliminary outcomes associated with a transdiagnostic emotion-focused group protocol for the treatment of anxiety disorders and depressive symptoms in youth. Twenty-two children (ages 7 to 12; M = 9.79) with a principal anxiety disorder and varying levels of comorbid depressive symptoms were…

An Investigation of Harvard Dropouts. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nicholi, Armand M., II

Approximately half of the 7,000,000 students currently enrolled in college will fail to complete their education. This study investigates the causes of this high attrition rate by examining the records of 1,454 undergraduates who dropped out of Harvard College for various reasons over a 5-year period. Sources of the data were: (1) Registrar's…

Do the Low Levels of Reading Course Material Continue? An Examination in a Forensic Psychology Graduate Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clump, Michael A.; Doll, Jason

2007-01-01

Clump, Bauer, and Bradley (2004) and Burchfield and Sappington (2000) previously found extremely low levels of reading in undergraduate psychology courses. The current study investigated whether these low levels of reading are also found with graduate students, or if this value is altered by only investigating individuals who show continued…

The Love of Sport: An Investigation into the Perceptions and Experiences of Physical Education Amongst Primary School Pupils

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hayes, Deborah

2017-01-01

Inactivity amongst children and adults in the UK is currently of great concern. Attitudes towards physical activity develop during childhood and may influence physical activity patterns in later life. This research investigated the experiences and perceptions of physical education (P.E.) amongst primary school pupils. The study established overall…

Investigating the Effects of Planning Time on the Complexity of L2 Argumentative Writing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tabari, Mahmoud Abdi

2017-01-01

Much research has investigated the role of planning time in second language writing; however, the results show that there are inconsistent findings about the effects of planning time conditions on the complexity of the EFL learners' textual output. The current study attempted to consider the differential effects of planning time conditions in…

Nitric oxide augments voltage-activated calcium currents of crustacea (Idotea baltica) skeletal muscle.

PubMed

Erxleben, C; Hermann, A

2001-03-16

Invertebrate skeletal muscle contraction is regulated by calcium influx through voltage-dependent calcium channels in the sarcolemmal membrane. In present study we investigated the effects of nitric oxide (NO) donors on calcium currents of single skeletal muscle fibres from the marine isopod, Idotea baltica, using two-electrode voltage clamp recording techniques. The NO donors, S-nitrosocysteine, S-nitroso-N-acetyl-penicillamine or hydroxylamine reversibly increased calcium inward currents in a time dependent manner. The increase of the current was prevented by methylene blue. Our experiments suggest that NO increases calcium inward currents. NO, by acting on calcium ion channels in the sarcolemmal membrane, therefore, may directly be involved in the modulation of muscle contraction.

Thermodynamic description of multicomponent nickel-base superalloys containing aluminum, chromium, ruthenium and platinum: A computational thermodynamic approach coupled with experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jun

Ru and Pt are candidate additional component for improving the high temperature properties of Ni-base superalloys. A thermodynamic description of the Ni-Al-Cr-Ru-Pt system, serving as an essential knowledge base for better alloy design and processing control, was developed in the present study by means of thermodynamic modeling coupled with experimental investigations of phase equilibria. To deal with the order/disorder transition occurring in the Ni-base superalloys, a physical sound model, Cluster/Site Approximation (CSA) was used to describe the fcc phases. The CSA offers computational advantages, without loss of accuracy, over the Cluster Variation Method (CVM) in the calculation of multicomponent phase diagrams. It has been successfully applied to fcc phases in calculating technologically important Ni-Al-Cr phase diagrams. Our effort in this study focused on the two key ternary systems: Ni-Al-Ru and Ni-Al-Pt. The CSA calculated Ni-Al-Ru ternary phase diagrams are in good agreement with the experimental results in the literature and from the current study. A thermodynamic description of quaternary Ni-Al-Cr-Ru was obtained based on the descriptions of the lower order systems and the calculated results agree with experimental data available in literature and in the current study. The Ni-Al-Pt system was thermodynamically modeled based on the limited experimental data available in the literature and obtained from the current study. With the help of the preliminary description, a number of alloy compositions were selected for further investigation. The information obtained was used to improve the current modeling. A thermodynamic description of the Ni-Al-Cr-Pt quaternary was then obtained via extrapolation from its constituent lower order systems. The thermodynamic description for Ni-base superalloy containing Al, Cr, Ru and Pt was obtained via extrapolation. It is believed to be reliable and useful to guide the alloy design and further experimental investigation.

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.

PubMed

Muszkat, Débora; Polanczyk, Guilherme Vanoni; Dias, Taciana G Costa; Brunoni, André Russowsky

2016-09-01

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that consists of applying a weak electric current over the scalp to modulate cortical excitability. tDCS has been extensively investigated in adults with psychiatric disorders. The aim of this study was to review the current literature regarding the use of tDCS in children and adolescents with psychiatric disorders. We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE databases for studies evaluating the safety and efficacy of tDCS in children and adolescents from age 0 to 18 years with psychiatric disorders. We found six studies that evaluated patients with different psychiatric disorders, with diverse study designs and stimulation parameters, including three small randomized clinical trials (RCTs), one evaluating childhood-onset schizophrenia, one RCT with patients with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and one study in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); three open-label studies, two evaluating patients with ASD, and one study of feasibility of the technique in children and adolescents with language disorders and diverse psychiatric disorders, including ASD, intellectual disability, and ADHD. We also found three studies of dosage considerations in the general pediatric population. The technique was well tolerated, with no reports of serious side effects. Preliminary research suggests that tDCS may be well tolerated and safe for children and adolescents with psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. Nevertheless, because the literature regarding tDCS in child and adolescent psychiatry is scarce and there exist limited numbers of randomized controlled trials, it is not possible to draw definite conclusions. Future studies should investigate the technique with regard to specific psychiatric conditions in comparison with standard treatments. In addition, long-term efficacy and safety should be monitored.

Cost/benefit trade-offs for reducing the energy consumption of commercial air transportation (RECAT)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gobetz, F. W.; Leshane, A. A.

1976-01-01

The RECAT study evaluated the opportunities for reducing the energy requirements of the U.S. domestic air passenger transport system through improved operational techniques, modified in-service aircraft, derivatives of current production models, or new aircraft using either current or advanced technology. Each of these fuel-conserving alternatives was investigated individually to test its potential for fuel conservation relative to a hypothetical baseline case in which current, in-production aircraft types are assumed to operate, without modification and with current operational techniques, into the future out to the year 2000. Consequently, while the RECAT results lend insight into the directions in which technology can best be pursued for improved air transport fuel economy, no single option studied in the RECAT program is indicative of a realistic future scenario.

Delayed Intermodal Contingency Affects Young Children's Recognition of Their Current Self

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miyazaki, Michiko; Hiraki, Kazuo

2006-01-01

This study investigated whether 2-, 3-, and 4-year-olds use their video feedback as a reflection of their current state, even when their feedback was presented with a short temporal delay. In Experiment 1, the effects of 1- and 2-s delayed feedback were examined on an analog of the mark test. In the case of live and 1-s delayed feedback,…

Laboratory study - laboratory testing of bridge deck mixes

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-03-01

The purpose of this investigation was to develop bridge deck mixes that will improve field performance and minimize cracking potential compared to MoDOT's current (B-2) bridge deck mix design. The mix designs developed in this study were tested and c...

Bullying and Students with Disabilities: Examination of Disability Status and Educational Placement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rose, Chad A.; Stormont, Melissa; Wang, Ze; Simpson, Cynthia G.; Preast, June L.; Green, Ambra L.

2015-01-01

Students with disabilities are disproportionately represented within the bullying dynamic. However, few studies have investigated the interaction between disability identification and special education services. The current study evaluated bullying involvement (direct victimization, relational victimization, cybervictimization, bullying, fighting,…

Student Attrition in Mathematics E-Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Glenn Gordon; Ferguson, David

2005-01-01

Qualitative studies indicate that mathematics does not work well in e-learning. The current study used quantitative methods to investigate more objectively the extent of problems with mathematics in e-learning. The authors used student attrition as a simple measure of student satisfaction and course viability in two studies, one investigating…

Second Language Grammatical Proficiency and Third Language Acquisition

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moghtadi, Laleh; Koosha, Mansour; Lotfi, Ahmad Reza

2014-01-01

The main concern of the present study was to investigate the probable correlation between the bilinguals' second language grammatical proficiency level and their third language grammatical proficiency level. The current study was implemented on selecting a total of 100 Iranian female high school students studying at second grade from two…

Laboratory Control System's Effects on Student Achievement and Attitudes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cicek, Fatma Gozalan; Taspinar, Mehmet

2016-01-01

Problem Statement: The current study investigates whether the learning environment designed based on the laboratory control system affects the academic achievement, the attitude toward the learning-teaching process and the retention of the students in computer education. Purpose of Study: The study aims to identify the laboratory control system…

Reducing State Communication Anxiety for Public Speakers: An Energy Psychology Pilot Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fitch, John, III; Schmuldt, Laura; Rudick, Karen L.

2011-01-01

This mixed-method pilot study investigates the efficacy of implementing primordial energy activation and transcendence to address public speaking anxiety. Speech anxiety was significantly reduced from pretest to posttest, as measured by the Communication Anxiety Inventory State. Suggestions for future research, limitations of the current study,…

A Study of the Reliability, Validity, and Usefulness of Identified Pre-Teaching Predictors.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gress, James R.

This study investigates selectivity in teacher education. Using perspectives afforded by institutional admissions practices, teacher effectiveness research, and selected public school influences, the study explored both current policies and procedures in the selection of preservice students and the usefulness of a number of biographical,…

Wet Scrubber System Study. Volume II. Final Report and Bibliography.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Calvert, Seymour; And Others

This report is the second volume of a two-part study on wet scrubber systems. The study was undertaken to achieve the following objectives: (1) evaluate current engineering technology, (2) evaluate existing scrubber systems, (3) investigate present usage problems, (4) determine potential new applications, and (5) develop specific research…

Phyto-toponyms of Arbutus unedo L. and their distribution in Sardinia (Italy)

PubMed Central

Pinna, Claudia; Carta, Luisa; Deiana, Vitale; Camarda, Ignazio

2017-01-01

The study shows the results of an inventory of place names connected to Arbutus unedo L., a Mediterranean species, widespread throughout Sardinia. The main aim was to compare the past distribution of place names, referring to the strawberry tree, to the current distribution of the species on the island. In addition, we investigated the meaning and the diversity of these local place names in the various communities. The result was a collection of 432 phyto-toponyms. 248 of them were used for an analysis of their distribution in the habitats, indicated on the Map of the Nature System in Sardinia, defined on the basis of the current vegetation typology. The persistence of the species in the various habitats was either confirmed or negated with in site investigations and interviews. 47.5% of municipalities have place names related to the strawberry tree. Of the 248 phyto-toponyms, 127 fall in the habitats where the species currently persists proving a correspondence between their regional distribution and the current distribution of the species. The remaining 121 phyto-toponyms fall in habitats where the strawberry tree is currently absent. Most of them are found in man-made habitats where man has transformed the forest cover which previously included the strawberry tree. This study also contributes to promoting and conserving the linguistic heritage of local communities. PMID:28704491

Modelling potential changes in marine biogeochemistry due to large-scale offshore tidal energy extraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van der Molen, Johan

2015-04-01

Tidal power generation through submerged turbine-type devices is in an advanced stage of testing, and large-scale applications are being planned in areas with high tidal current speeds. The potential impact of such large-scale applications on the hydrography can be investigated using hydrodynamical models. In addition, aspects of the potential impact on the marine ecosystem can be studied using biogeochemical models. In this study, the coupled hydrodynamics-biogeochemistry model GETM-ERSEM is used in a shelf-wide application to investigate the potential impact of large-scale tidal power generation in the Pentland Firth. A scenario representing the currently licensed power extraction suggested i) an average reduction in M2 tidal current velocities of several cm/s within the Pentland Firth, ii) changes in the residual circulation of several mm/s in the vicinity of the Pentland Firth, iii) an increase in M2 tidal amplitude of up to 1 cm to the west of the Pentland Firth, and iv) a reduction of several mm in M2 tidal amplitude along the east coast of the UK. A second scenario representing 10 times the currently licensed power extraction resulted in changes that were approximately 10 times as large. Simulations including the biogeochemistry model for these scenarios are currently in preparation, and first results will be presented at the the conference, aiming at impacts on primary production and benthic production.

Effect of Continuous and Pulsed Current Gas Tungsten Arc Welding on Dissimilar Weldments Between Hastelloy C-276/AISI 321 Austenitic Stainless Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Sumitra; Taiwade, Ravindra V.; Vashishtha, Himanshu

2017-03-01

In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to join Hastelloy C-276 nickel-based superalloy and AISI 321 austenitic stainless steel using ERNiCrMo-4 filler. The joints were fabricated by continuous and pulsed current gas tungsten arc welding processes. Experimental studies to ascertain the structure-property co-relationship with or without pulsed current mode were carried out using an optical microscope and scanning electron microscope. Further, the energy-dispersive spectroscope was used to evaluate the extent of microsegregation. The microstructure of fusion zone was obtained as finer cellular dendritic structure for pulsed current mode, whereas columnar structure was formed with small amount of cellular structure for continuous current mode. The scanning electron microscope examination witnessed the existence of migrated grain boundaries at the weld interfaces. Moreover, the presence of secondary phases such as P and μ was observed in continuous current weld joints, whereas they were absent in pulsed current weld joints, which needs to be further characterized. Moreover, pulsed current joints resulted in narrower weld bead, refined morphology, reduced elemental segregation and improved strength of the welded joints. The outcomes of the present investigation would help in obtaining good quality dissimilar joints for industrial applications and AISI 321 ASS being cheaper consequently led to cost-effective design also.

AMS Climate Studies: Improving climate literacy through undergraduate education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brey, J. A.; Geer, I. W.; Moran, J. M.; Weinbeck, R. S.; Mills, E. W.; Blair, B. A.; Hopkins, E. J.; Kiley, T. P., Jr.; Ruwe, E. E.

2009-12-01

In working to promote scientific literacy among the public, the American Meteorological Society (AMS) has produced a suite of introductory college-level courses that engage students by investigating relevant topics in Earth science, and utilizing the most current, real-world environmental data. The newest of these courses, AMS Climate Studies, is a turnkey package which will be licensed by individual colleges for local offering in online, blended, or traditional lecture/lab settings. The course will place students in a dynamic learning environment where they will investigate Earth’s climate system using real-world data. This will allow the course to keep a strong focus on the science, while still addressing many of the societal impacts that draw the attention of today’s students. In this way, the course will serve as a great primer in preparing students to become responsible, scientifically-literate participants in discussions of climate science and climate change. Developed with major support from NASA, AMS Climate Studies will encourage students to investigate the atmosphere and world ocean as components of a larger Earth system. More than 500 colleges and universities throughout the United States have already offered AMS Weather Studies and AMS Ocean Studies, after which AMS Climate Studies will be modeled. The learning system will consist of a fully-integrated set of printed and online learning materials focused around a brand new, hardcover 15-chapter textbook, Climate Studies: Introduction to Climate Science and an Investigations Manual with 30 lab-style activities that will emphasize the use of authentic science data. The package will also include a course website providing weekly Current Climate Studies activities along with access to environmental data streams, including an impressive suite of NASA and NOAA images and products. The development and testing of AMS Climate Studies is currently nearing completion. A number of college and university professors have been selected to pilot the program in Spring 2010, with major emphasis placed on representing a diverse array of institution types, degree programs, course delivery methods, academic backgrounds, etc. The materials will be vigorously tested and updated accordingly. AMS Climate Studies will be available for implementation at your institution beginning Fall 2010.

English Curriculum Redesign through an EFL Teacher Study Group

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yeh, Hui-chin

2013-01-01

This study investigates how a teacher study group collectively examined problems in their current English curriculum and redesigned the curriculum into theme-based lessons for various grades. Comprised of seven elementary school teachers and a teacher educator, the teacher study group met bi-weekly for three hours for a total of eight meetings.…

An investigation into the influence of experimental conditions on in vitro drug release from immediate-release tablets of levothyroxine sodium and its relation to oral bioavailability.

PubMed

Kocic, Ivana; Homsek, Irena; Dacevic, Mirjana; Parojcic, Jelena; Miljkovic, Branislava

2011-09-01

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of experimental conditions on levothyroxine sodium release from two immediate-release tablet formulations which narrowly passed the standard requirements for bioequivalence studies. The in vivo study was conducted as randomised, single-dose, two-way cross-over pharmacokinetic study in 24 healthy subjects. The in vitro study was performed using various dissolution media, and obtained dissolution profiles were compared using the similarity factor value. Drug solubility in different media was also determined. The in vivo results showed narrowly passing bioequivalence. Considering that levothyroxine sodium is classified as Class III drug according to the Biopharmaceutics Classification System, drug bioavailability will be less sensitive to the variation in its dissolution characteristics and it can be assumed that the differences observed in vitro in some of investigated media probably do not have significant influence on the absorption process, as long as rapid and complete dissolution exists. The study results indicate that the current regulatory criteria for the value of similarity factor in comparative dissolution testing, as well as request for very rapid dissolution (more than 85% of drug dissolved in 15 min), are very restricted for immediate-release dosage forms containing highly soluble drug substance and need further investigation. The obtained results also add to the existing debate on the appropriateness of the current bioequivalence standards for levothyroxine sodium products.

Investigation of Current Spike Phenomena During Heavy Ion Irradiation of NAND Flash Memories

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oldham, Timothy R.; Berg, Melanie; Friendlich, Mark; Wilcox, Ted; Seidleck, Christina; LaBel, Kenneth A.; Irom, Farokh; Buchner, Steven P.; McMorrow, Dale; Mavis, David G.;

USEPA/WSWRD MEMBRANE RESEARCH

EPA Science Inventory

The USEPA has been very active in membrane research. The following areas are currently being investigated: in-house fouling research, Information Collection Rule (ICR) treatment studies, inorganic scaling modeling, Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) program implementati...

Electron beam observation opportunity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raitt, John; Banks, Peter

Ionospheric researchers will have the opportunity to conduct coordinated radio, radar, and optical observations in conjunction with other space-based electron beam experiments as part of the upcoming Cooperative High-Altitude Rocket Gun Experiments (CHARGE) 3 rocket flight in November 1988 at White Sands Missile Range (WSMR, White Sands, N.Mex.). The flight will be particularly interesting because of the high power planned for the electron gun (3.5 kV at 5 A), which is based, in part, on technology developments planned for the successful Excede series of rockets.CHARGE 3 is the third in a series of U.S. flights made in collaboration with investigators from Utah State University (Logan), Stanford University (Stanford, Calif.), the Institute for Space and Astronautical Sciences (Sendai, Japan), and the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor). The general objectives for CHARGE 3 are fourfold: to study vehicle charging and diagnosecontributory effects at higher beam currents and energy,to study ELF/VLF wave generation and propagation from dc and modulated electron beams,to diagnose beam propagation remotely by studying E region ionization and optical excitation, andto investigate voltage and current distribution in an electrically tethered space vehicle system at higher beam currents.

Laboratory investigation of the efficacy of holmium:YAG laser irradiation in removing intracanal debris

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nuebler-Moritz, Michael; Gutknecht, Norbert; Sailer, Hermann F.; Hering, Peter; Prettl, Wilhelm

1997-05-01

Current endodontic therapy involves debridement and disinfection of the root canal by means of mechanical instrumentation and chemical irrigation. However, several studies have shown that these techniques fail to achieve complete cleansing. Recently, lasers have been suggested for use within root canals. This study was conducted to determine the efficacy of Holmium:YAG laser irradiation in removing intracanal debris and smear layer. Root canal surfaces of freshly-extracted human teeth were exposed to pulsed Ho:YAG laser radiation. Subsequently, laser induced structural changes were investigated using scanning electron microscopy. Temperature measurements during irradiation were performed by means of thermocouples. The result of this survey give a preliminary indication of the ability of the Ho:YAG laser to improve current endodontic treatment survey give a preliminary indication of the ability of the Ho:YAG laser to improve current endodontic treatment modalities. However, limitations exist with regard to circumscribed and well-quantified irradiation of root canal surfaces, due to the lack of perpendicular delivery of the laser beam. Additional studies will be required to develop suitable optical transmission systems, in order to achieve complete cleansing and to avoid damage to the periradicular tissues, respectively.

Photoemf in cadmium sulfide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boeer, K. W.

1971-01-01

Theoretical and experimental investigations on CdS single crystals and CuxS:CdS photovoltaic cells prepared from CdS single crystals by a chemical-dip procedure are described. The studies are aimed at clarifying cell mechanisms which affect key cell properties (efficiency, reliability, and lifetime) by examining the properties of intrinsic and extrinsic defects in the junction and surface regions and their effects on carrier transport through these regions. The experimental research described includes studies of thermal, infrared, and field quenching of acceptor-doped CdS crystals; investigation of optical and electrical properties of CuxS:CdS photovoltaic cells (current-voltage characteristics, spectral distribution of photocurrent and photovoltage) and the dependence of these properties on temperature and light intensity; measurement of changes, as a result of heat treatment in ultrahigh vacuum, in the spectral distribution of photoconductivity at room temperature and liquid nitrogen temperature, the luminescence spectrum at liquid nitrogen temperature, and the thermally stimulated current curves of CdS crystals; determination of the effect of irradiation with 150 keV (maximum) X-rays on the spectral distribution of photoconductivity and thermally-stimulated current of CdS crystals; and studies of the effect of growth conditions on the photoconductive properties of CdS crystals.

Investigation of the effect of electric current on serrated deformation and acoustic emission in the aluminum-magnesium alloy 5056

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shibkov, A. A.; Denisov, A. A.; Zheltov, M. A.; Zolotov, A. E.; Gasanov, M. F.; Ivolgin, V. I.

2015-06-01

The effect of direct electric current on the serrated deformation of the aluminum-magnesium alloy 5056 has been studied using the acoustic emission method and high-speed video filming of propagating deformation bands. The phenomenon of the electric current-induced suppression of low-frequency acoustic emission signals has been revealed in the range of 1 Hz-2 kHz, which is connected with the development of Portevin-Le Chatelier deformation bands. The characteristic times of damping and growth of plastic instabilities and acoustic signals caused by them after current turn-on and turn-off, respectively, have been estimated.

Analysis of reliable sub-ns spin-torque switching under transverse bias magnetic fields

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

D'Aquino, M., E-mail: daquino@uniparthenope.it; Perna, S.; Serpico, C.

2015-05-07

The switching process of a magnetic spin-valve nanosystem subject to spin-polarized current pulses is considered. The dependence of the switching probability on the current pulse duration is investigated. The further application of a transverse field along the intermediate anisotropy axis of the particle is used to control the quasi-random relaxation of magnetization to the reversed magnetization state. The critical current amplitudes to realize the switching are determined by studying the phase portrait of the Landau-Lifshtz-Slonczewski dynamics. Macrospin numerical simulations are in good agreement with the theoretical prediction and demonstrate reliable switching even for very short (below 100 ps) current pulses.

Chopper-controlled discharge life cycling studies on lead-acid batteries

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kraml, J. J.; Ames, E. P.

1982-01-01

State-of-the-art 6 volt lead-acid golf car batteries were tested. A daily charge/discharge cycling to failure points under various chopper controlled pulsed dc and continuous current load conditions was undertaken. The cycle life and failure modes were investigated for depth of discharge, average current chopper frequency, and chopper duty cycle. It is shown that battery life is primarily and inversely related to depth of discharge and discharge current. Failure mode is characterized by a gradual capacity loss with consistent evidence of cell element aging.

Investigation of the residue in an electric rail gun employing a plasma armature

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauer, D. P.; Barber, J. P.

1984-01-01

The performance of dc electric rail guns using plasma-armature-accelerated projectiles was studied. It was found that the initial rail launcher acceleration profile was consistent with the simulation, but that after the projectile had traveled approximately 25 to 30 cm along the gun, a considerable portion of the current in the projectile armature commutated into a secondary current path. Also noted were the lower than expected muzzle velocities. It was proposed that the secondary current path was a relatively high conductivity layer of residue on the launcher bore.

Current situation and industrialization of Taiwan nanotechnology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Su, Hsin-Ning; Lee, Pei-Chun; Tsai, Min-Hua; Chien, Kuo-Ming

2007-12-01

Nanotechnology is projected to be a very promising field, and the impact of nanotechnology on society is increasingly significant as the research funding and manufactured goods increase exponentially. A clearer picture of Taiwan's current and future nanotechnology industry is an essential component for future planning. Therefore, this investigation studies the progress of industrializing nanotechnology in Taiwan by surveying 150 companies. Along with understanding Taiwan's current nanotechnology industrialization, this paper also suggests ways to promote Taiwan's nanotechnology. The survey results are summarized and serve as the basis for planning a nanotechnology industrialization strategy.

A study of the electrical properties of p-n junctions formed by ion-implantation into gallium arsenide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lin, A. H.

1972-01-01

In the process of ion implantation, ion beams bombard the surface and create undesirable surface effects. The surface effects were investigated, and surface leakage currents were shown to be reduced by surface treatment. I-V characteristics and C-V measurements were obtained for the Zn-GaAs and Zn-(In,Ga)As junction is considered as a p-i-n heterojunction, without generation-recombination current. The Zn-GaAs junction is considered as a p-n homojunction with appreciable generation-recombination currents.

Former smokers with non-small-cell lung cancers: a comprehensive investigation of clinicopathologic characteristics, oncogenic drivers, and prognosis.

PubMed

Zheng, Shanbo; Wang, Rui; Zhang, Yang; Pan, Yunjian; Cheng, Chao; Zheng, Difan; Sun, Yihua; Chen, Haiquan

2016-08-01

The aim of this present investigation was to evaluate the clinicopathologic characteristics, oncogenic drivers, and prognosis of former smokers with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and to compare them with those of the current and never smokers. This investigation was a single-institution retrospective study of 2289 NSCLC patients, who were classified as former, current, or never smokers. A collection was made of the clinicopathological characteristics, spectra of well-identified driver genes and survival rates. The survival rates were compared using log-rank test, and independent prognostic factors, identified using Cox regression analysis. Of 2289 NSCLC patients, 257 (11.2%) were former smokers; 868 (37.9%), current smokers; and 1164 (50.9%), never smokers. Compared with the current, the former were characterized by older age at diagnosis (64.3y vs. 59.9y; P < 0.001), earlier TNM stage (stage I, 47.9% vs. 39.5%; P = 0.017), fewer solid predominance in adenocarcinomas (16.2% vs. 29.5%; P = 0.005), and more EGFR mutation (33.2% vs. 20.7%; P < 0.001) but less KRAS mutation (6.7% vs. 11.9%, P = 0.041). No statistically significant survival differences were observed between the former and current. However, the light former smokers presented favorable overall survival when compared with the light current and heavy former or current (the light former vs. the heavy former, P = 0.028; the light former vs. the light current, P = 0.048; and the light former vs. the heavy current, P = 0.048). Our findings suggest that the former smokers with NSCLCs can have distinctive clinicopathologic characteristics, oncogenic drivers, and prognosis, and they, especially the light former, can benefit from smoking cessation. © 2016 The Authors. Cancer Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

From the Lab to the Dorm Room: Metacognitive Awareness and Use of Spaced Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Susser, Jonathan A.; McCabe, Jennifer

2013-01-01

Laboratory studies have demonstrated the long-term memory benefits of studying material in multiple distributed sessions as opposed to one massed session, given an identical amount of overall study time (i.e., the "spacing effect"). The current study goes beyond the laboratory to investigate whether undergraduates know about the advantage of…

Theoretical derivation of anodizing current and comparison between fitted curves and measured curves under different conditions.

PubMed

Chong, Bin; Yu, Dongliang; Jin, Rong; Wang, Yang; Li, Dongdong; Song, Ye; Gao, Mingqi; Zhu, Xufei

2015-04-10

Anodic TiO2 nanotubes have been studied extensively for many years. However, the growth kinetics still remains unclear. The systematic study of the current transient under constant anodizing voltage has not been mentioned in the original literature. Here, a derivation and its corresponding theoretical formula are proposed to overcome this challenge. In this paper, the theoretical expressions for the time dependent ionic current and electronic current are derived to explore the anodizing process of Ti. The anodizing current-time curves under different anodizing voltages and different temperatures are experimentally investigated in the anodization of Ti. Furthermore, the quantitative relationship between the thickness of the barrier layer and anodizing time, and the relationships between the ionic/electronic current and temperatures are proposed in this paper. All of the current-transient plots can be fitted consistently by the proposed theoretical expressions. Additionally, it is the first time that the coefficient A of the exponential relationship (ionic current j(ion) = A exp(BE)) has been determined under various temperatures and voltages. And the results indicate that as temperature and voltage increase, ionic current and electronic current both increase. The temperature has a larger effect on electronic current than ionic current. These results can promote the research of kinetics from a qualitative to quantitative level.

Theoretical derivation of anodizing current and comparison between fitted curves and measured curves under different conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chong, Bin; Yu, Dongliang; Jin, Rong; Wang, Yang; Li, Dongdong; Song, Ye; Gao, Mingqi; Zhu, Xufei

2015-04-01

Anodic TiO2 nanotubes have been studied extensively for many years. However, the growth kinetics still remains unclear. The systematic study of the current transient under constant anodizing voltage has not been mentioned in the original literature. Here, a derivation and its corresponding theoretical formula are proposed to overcome this challenge. In this paper, the theoretical expressions for the time dependent ionic current and electronic current are derived to explore the anodizing process of Ti. The anodizing current-time curves under different anodizing voltages and different temperatures are experimentally investigated in the anodization of Ti. Furthermore, the quantitative relationship between the thickness of the barrier layer and anodizing time, and the relationships between the ionic/electronic current and temperatures are proposed in this paper. All of the current-transient plots can be fitted consistently by the proposed theoretical expressions. Additionally, it is the first time that the coefficient A of the exponential relationship (ionic current jion = A exp(BE)) has been determined under various temperatures and voltages. And the results indicate that as temperature and voltage increase, ionic current and electronic current both increase. The temperature has a larger effect on electronic current than ionic current. These results can promote the research of kinetics from a qualitative to quantitative level.

An international comparison of risk factors between two regions with distinct differences in asthma prevalence.

PubMed

Madani, K; Vlaski, E; Rennie, D C; Sears, M; Lawson, J A

2018-03-24

Investigation of the geographic variation in asthma prevalence can improve our understanding of asthma etiology and management. The purpose of our investigation was to compare the prevalence of asthma and wheeze among adolescents living in two distinct international regions and to investigate reasons for observed differences. A cross-sectional survey of 13-14 year olds was completed in Saskatoon, Canada (n=1200) and Skopje, Republic of Macedonia (n=3026), as part of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase 3 study. Surveys were self-completed by students following the ISAAC protocol. Multiple logistic regression models were used to investigate associations with reports of asthma and current wheeze. A mediation analysis was then completed. Asthma prevalence was much higher in Saskatoon than Skopje (21.3% vs. 1.7%) as was the prevalence of current wheeze (28.2% vs. 8.8%). Higher paracetamol (acetaminophen) use was a consistent risk factor for asthma and wheeze in both locations and showed dose-response relationships. In both countries, paracetamol use and physical activity mediated some of the association for both asthma and wheeze. In Saskatoon, among those with current wheeze, 42.6% reported ever having a diagnosis of asthma compared to 10.2% among Skopje adolescents. The results suggest that the variation in risk factors between the two locations may explain some of the differences in the prevalence of asthma and wheeze between these two study sites. However, diagnostic labeling patterns should not be ruled out as another potential explanatory factor. Copyright © 2018 SEICAP. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

Development Of Eej Model Based On Dense Ground-based Magnetometer Array

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matsushita, H.; Yoshikawa, A.; Uozumi, T.; Fujimoto, A.; Abe, S.; Ishitsuka I, J. K.; Veliz, O.; Rosales, D.; Safor, E.; Beteta, V.

2016-12-01

Equatorial Electro-jet(here after called EEJ) is the electric current which flows very narrow region in ionosphere of the earth, which is between +- 3 degree from dip latitude. The EEJ was noticed as the significant enhancement of daily variation of magnetic field, and later Hirono, (1950) explained it by adapting Cowling effect to the ionosphere of the earth. The EE index, is one of ICSWSE space weather indices, was developed by Uozumi et al., (2008). Then, ICSWSE has continued to monitor the EEJ activity by using this EE index. Fujimoto et al., (2016) investigated the relationship between solar activity and long term variation of EEJ, and Hamid et al., (2015) investigated longitudinal dependency of EEJ, both of them were based on EE index. The EE index provides EDst value, which is correspond to magnetic field change at dip equator caused by magnetospheric current such as ring current, and EUEL value, which is correspond to the one caused by ionospheric current such as EEJ and Sq. However, actual EEJ is not magnetic field but the current, and it has not only current intensity but also the width. Some previous paper reported the EEJ structure such as current density or the width of EEJ using satellite data (e.g. Lühr et al., 2004; Jadhav et al., 2002), which is good when it checks the longitudinal dependency because it shifts longitude in a day. However, the ground-based magnetometer may be well useful to investigate the day-to-day variability of EEJ because it is fixed to same location. So, we developed a model of EEJ, which can estimate the EEJ current structure by ground magnetometer using dense magnetometer array near dip equator. In this study, the EEJ structures along 75W and 135E longitude are represented, and are compared each other. The result shows that large standard deviation of both current density and the half width are identified, while previous studies reported constant half width (e.g. Lühr et al., 2004). When our EEJ model is compared with CM4 model, which was developed by Sabaka et al., (2004), large discrepancy between them was identified, so it should be more discussed the reason to produce more accurate EEJ model.

Theoretical model and experimental investigation of current density boundary condition for welding arc study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boutaghane, A.; Bouhadef, K.; Valensi, F.; Pellerin, S.; Benkedda, Y.

2011-04-01

This paper presents results of theoretical and experimental investigation of the welding arc in Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) processes. A theoretical model consisting in simultaneous resolution of the set of conservation equations for mass, momentum, energy and current, Ohm's law and Maxwell equation is used to predict temperatures and current density distribution in argon welding arcs. A current density profile had to be assumed over the surface of the cathode as a boundary condition in order to make the theoretical calculations possible. In stationary GTAW process, this assumption leads to fair agreement with experimental results reported in literature with maximum arc temperatures of ~21 000 K. In contrast to the GTAW process, in GMAW process, the electrode is consumable and non-thermionic, and a realistic boundary condition of the current density is lacking. For establishing this crucial boundary condition which is the current density in the anode melting electrode, an original method is setup to enable the current density to be determined experimentally. High-speed camera (3000 images/s) is used to get geometrical dimensions of the welding wire used as anode. The total area of the melting anode covered by the arc plasma being determined, the current density at the anode surface can be calculated. For a 330 A arc, the current density at the melting anode surface is found to be of 5 × 107 A m-2 for a 1.2 mm diameter welding electrode.

Arab Parents' Involvement in School Reform in Israel

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arar, Khalid; Abu-Asbah, Khaled; Nasra, Muhammed Abu

2014-01-01

Current research indicates that parental involvement positively influences children's academic success. This study investigates parental involvement in the Arab education system in Israel, highlighting involvement in the New Horizon reform. We interviewed school principals and parent committee chairpersons from 15 Arab schools. The study confirmed…

Faculty Perceptions of Their Graduate Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hermanowicz, Joseph C.

2016-01-01

Most studies of graduate school socialization utilize samples of either current students or recent graduates. This study investigates how professors, established in their academic careers, retrospectively view their graduate training by asking and examining what deficiencies they detect from this preparatory stage. The sample is composed of…

Structural assessment of "d" regions affected by premature concrete deterioration : technical report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-03-01

The current study is a continuation of the earlier study that investigated the effects of Alkali Silica Reaction (ASR) and Delayed : Ettringite Formation (DEF) induced deterioration on the D-Regions of structures. Of the four near full-scale C-Beam s...

Design of an air traffic computer simulation system to support investigation of civil tiltrotor aircraft operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rogers, Ralph V.

1992-01-01

This research project addresses the need to provide an efficient and safe mechanism to investigate the effects and requirements of the tiltrotor aircraft's commercial operations on air transportation infrastructures, particularly air traffic control. The mechanism of choice is computer simulation. Unfortunately, the fundamental paradigms of the current air traffic control simulation models do not directly support the broad range of operational options and environments necessary to study tiltrotor operations. Modification of current air traffic simulation models to meet these requirements does not appear viable given the range and complexity of issues needing resolution. As a result, the investigation of systemic, infrastructure issues surrounding the effects of tiltrotor commercial operations requires new approaches to simulation modeling. These models should be based on perspectives and ideas closer to those associated with tiltrotor air traffic operations.

A Review of Intelligent Driving Style Analysis Systems and Related Artificial Intelligence Algorithms

PubMed Central

Meiring, Gys Albertus Marthinus; Myburgh, Hermanus Carel

2015-01-01

In this paper the various driving style analysis solutions are investigated. An in-depth investigation is performed to identify the relevant machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms utilised in current driver behaviour and driving style analysis systems. This review therefore serves as a trove of information, and will inform the specialist and the student regarding the current state of the art in driver style analysis systems, the application of these systems and the underlying artificial intelligence algorithms applied to these applications. The aim of the investigation is to evaluate the possibilities for unique driver identification utilizing the approaches identified in other driver behaviour studies. It was found that Fuzzy Logic inference systems, Hidden Markov Models and Support Vector Machines consist of promising capabilities to address unique driver identification algorithms if model complexity can be reduced. PMID:26690164

A Review of Intelligent Driving Style Analysis Systems and Related Artificial Intelligence Algorithms.

PubMed

Meiring, Gys Albertus Marthinus; Myburgh, Hermanus Carel

2015-12-04

In this paper the various driving style analysis solutions are investigated. An in-depth investigation is performed to identify the relevant machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms utilised in current driver behaviour and driving style analysis systems. This review therefore serves as a trove of information, and will inform the specialist and the student regarding the current state of the art in driver style analysis systems, the application of these systems and the underlying artificial intelligence algorithms applied to these applications. The aim of the investigation is to evaluate the possibilities for unique driver identification utilizing the approaches identified in other driver behaviour studies. It was found that Fuzzy Logic inference systems, Hidden Markov Models and Support Vector Machines consist of promising capabilities to address unique driver identification algorithms if model complexity can be reduced.

An Experimental Investigation into NO sub X Control of a Gas Turbine Combustor and Augmentor Tube Incorporating a Catalytic Reduction System

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-03-01

An initial experimental investigation was conducted to examine the feasibility of NOx emission control using catalytic reduction techniques in the ...current configuration impractical. Recommendations for alternative configurations are presented. The results of the investigation have proven that further study is warranted....used as a gas generator and catalytic reduction system. Four data runs were made. Three runs were completed without the catalyst installed

Cargo Logistics Airlift Systems Study (CLASS). Volume 5: Summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burby, R. J.; Kuhlman, W. H.

1980-01-01

Findings and conclusions derived during the study of freighter aircraft requirements to the year 2008 are summarized. These results represent the stepping off point for the much needed coordinated planning efforts by government agencies, the airlines, the users, and the aircraft manufacturers. The methodology utilized in the investigations is shown. The analysis of the current system encompassed evaluations of the past and current cargo markets and on sight surveys of airport and cargo terminals. The findings that resulted provided the basis for formulating the case study procedures, developing the future scenario, and developing the future cargo market demand.

[Molecular typing methods for Pasteurella multocida-A review].

PubMed

Peng, Zhong; Liang, Wan; Wu, Bin

2016-10-04

Pasteurella multocida is an important gram-negative pathogenic bacterium that could infect wide ranges of animals. Humans could also be infected by P. multocida via animal bite or scratching. Current typing methods for P. multocida include serological typing methods and molecular typing methods. Of them, serological typing methods are based on immunological assays, which are too complicated for clinical bacteriological studies. However, the molecular methods including multiple PCRs and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) methods are more suitable for bacteriological studies of P. multocida in clinic, with their simple operation, high efficiency and accurate detection compared to the traditional serological typing methods, they are therefore widely used. In the current review, we briefly describe the molecular typing methods for P. multocida. Our aim is to provide a knowledge-foundation for clinical bacteriological investigation especially the molecular investigation for P. multocida.

[The effect of enzymatic treatment using proteases on properties of persistent sodium current in CA1 pyramidal neurons of rat hippocampus].

PubMed

Lun'ko, O O; Isaiev, D S; Maxymiuk, O P; Kryshtal', O O; Isaieva, O V

2014-01-01

We investigated the effect of proteases, widely used for neuron isolation in electrophysiological studies, on the amplitude and kinetic characteristics of persistent sodium current (I(NaP)) in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. Properties of I(NaP) were studied on neurons isolated by mechanical treatment (control group) and by mechanical and enzymatic treatment using pronase E (from Streptomyces griseus) or protease type XXIII (from Aspergillus oryzae). We show that in neurons isolated with pronase E kinetic of activation and density of I(NaP) was unaltered. Enzymatic treatment with protease type XXIII did not alter I(NaP) activation but result in significant decrease in I(NaP) density. Our data indicates that enzymatic treatment using pronase E for neuron isolation is preferable for investigation of I(NaP).

Extended performance technology study 30-cm thruster

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beattie, J. R.

1983-01-01

The extended performance technology study was an investigation of advanced discharge chambers and thruster components that were designed to operate under conditions which result in an increase in the thrust and thrust to power ratio of the state of the art J-series thruster. The high level of performance was achieved by a discharge chamber that employs a ring cusp magnetic confinement arrangement and a three grid ion extraction assembly. It is shown that the ring cusp magnetic field geometry confines the plasma to the volume immediately adjacent to the ion extraction assembly. A high emission current hollow cathode that demonstrated operation at an emission current as high as J sub E = 40 A, and measurements which show the breakdown voltage of individual sections of the J-series propellant flow electrical isolator is about 340 V per section are investigated.

Changes in the cerebellar and cerebro-cerebellar circuit in type 2 diabetes.

PubMed

Fang, Peng; An, Jie; Tan, Xin; Zeng, Ling-Li; Shen, Hui; Qiu, Shijun; Hu, Dewen

2017-04-01

Currently, 422 million adults suffer from diabetes worldwide, leading to tremendous disabilities and a great burden to families and society. Functional and structural MRIs have demonstrated that patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) exhibit abnormalities in brain regions in the cerebral cortex. However, the changes of cerebellar anatomical connections in diabetic patients remains unclear. In the current study, diffusion tensor imaging deterministic tractography and statistical analysis were employed to investigate abnormal cerebellar anatomical connections in diabetic patients. This is the first study to investigate the altered cerebellar anatomical connectivity in T2DM patients. Decreased anatomical connections were found in the cerebellar and cerebro-cerebellar circuits of T2DM patients, providing valuable new insights into the potential neuro-pathophysiology of diabetes-related motor and cognitive deficits. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Adrenomedullin increases the short-circuit current in the mouse seminal vesicle: actions on chloride secretion.

PubMed

Liao, S B; Cheung, K H; O, W S; Tang, Fai

2014-08-01

Adrenomedullin (ADM) may regulate seminal vesicle fluid secretion, and this may affect sperm quality. In this study, we investigated the effect of ADM on chloride secretion in the mouse seminal vesicle. The presence of ADM in mouse seminal vesicle was confirmed using immunostaining, and the molecular species was determined using gel filtration chromatography coupled with enzyme-linked assay for ADM. The effects of ADM on chloride secretion were studied by short-circuit current technique in a whole-mount preparation of mouse seminal vesicle in an Ussing chamber. The effects of specific ADM and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonists were investigated. Whether the ADM effect depended on the cAMP- and/or calcium-activated chloride channel was also studied using specific chloride channel blockers. The results showed that ADM was present in seminal vesicle epithelial cells. The major molecular species was precursor in the mouse seminal vesicle. ADM increased short-circuit current through the calcium-activated chloride channel in mouse seminal vesicle, and CGRP receptor was involved. We conclude that ADM may regulate chloride and fluid secretion from the seminal vesicle, which may affect the composition of the seminal plasma bathing the sperm and, hence, fertility. © 2014 by the Society for the Study of Reproduction, Inc.

Habitual micronutrient intake during and after pregnancy in Caucasian Londoners.

PubMed

Derbyshire, E; Davies, G J; Costarelli, V; Dettmar, P W

2009-01-01

Micronutrient status is of fundamental importance both upon conception and throughout pregnancy. There is an abundance of literature investigating nutrient intakes during individual trimesters of pregnancy but few studies have investigated baseline intakes of nutrients throughout gestation as a continuum. The current investigation set out to measure habitual micronutrient intakes at weeks 13, 25, 35 of pregnancy and 6 weeks postpartum using a prospective background information questionnaire, 4-7-day weighed food diary and postnatal questionnaire. Seventy-two primiparous, Caucasian Londoners were recruited at the study start with 42 completing the first, second, third trimester and postpartum study stages respectively. Study findings indicated that sodium intakes were significantly higher than UK guidelines throughout and after pregnancy (P < 0.001). Intakes of folate, iron, vitamin D, potassium, iodine and selenium were lower than UK recommendations during and after pregnancy, but to varying levels of statistical significance (P < 0.05). Only 23-38% of women met UK recommendations for folate (300 microg day(-1)) through dietary sources. Similarly, only a small percentage of women met dietary guidelines for iron (19-28%). The findings from the current study indicate that public health interventions may be required to help expectant mothers achieve an optimal diet, particularly after birth when dietary recommendations increase for some micronutrients.

Investigating the Predictive Roles of Working Memory and IQ in Academic Attainment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Alloway, Tracy Packiam; Alloway, Ross G.

2010-01-01

There is growing evidence for the relationship between working memory and academic attainment. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether working memory is simply a proxy for IQ or whether there is a unique contribution to learning outcomes. The findings indicate that children's working memory skills at 5 years of age were the best…

An Event-Related Potential (ERP) Investigation of Filler-Gap Processing in Native and Second Language Speakers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dallas, Andrea; DeDe, Gayle; Nicol, Janet

2013-01-01

The current study employed a neuro-imaging technique, Event-Related Potentials (ERP), to investigate real-time processing of sentences containing filler-gap dependencies by late-learning speakers of English as a second language (L2) with a Chinese native language background. An individual differences approach was also taken to examine the role of…

E-Learning in Supplemental Educational Systems in Taiwan: Present Status and Future Challenges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhang, Ke; Hung, Jui-Long

2009-01-01

As Taiwan's full-scale e-learning initiatives moved to the seventh year in 2009, the current status and challenges of e-learning development there are yet to be fully understood. Further extending Zhang and Hung's (2006) investigation on e-learning in all universities and colleges in Taiwan, this study investigated the after-school programs (ASPs)…

Investigating the Effect of Extensive Reading on EFL Learners' Reading Attitudes at Hail University in KSA

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Salameh, Lina Abedelqader Mohmmad

2017-01-01

Extensive reading approach (ER) has received conceptual support from views and theories that prioritize the importance of input in second language acquisition. ER is probably one of the easiest ways to implement an input-rich learning environment in a pedagogical setting. Accordingly, the current study is an attempt to investigate the effect of ER…

Investigating Best Practice and Effectiveness of Leadership Wisdom among Principals of Excellent Secondary School Malaysia: Perceptions of Senior Assistants

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ahmad, Abdul Razaq; Salleh, Mohamad Johdi; Awang, Mohd Mahzan; Mohamad, Nazifah Alwani

2013-01-01

The aim of the current study is to investigate the practices and effectiveness of leadership wisdom among the principals of excellent secondary schools as perceived by the Senior Assistants. This research employed survey approach by using a validated questionnaire. The respondents were 417 Senior Assistants, who were randomly selected from the…

Face-to-Face and Online: An Investigation of Children's and Adolescents' Bullying Behavior through the Lens of Moral Emotions and Judgments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Conway, Lauryn; Gomez-Garibello, Carlos; Talwar, Victoria; Shariff, Shaheen

2016-01-01

The current study investigated the influence of type of aggression (cyberbullying or traditional bullying) and participant role (bystander or perpetrator) on children and adolescents' self-attribution of moral emotions and judgments, while examining the influence of chronological age. Participants (N = 122, 8-16 years) evaluated vignettes and were…

The Practice and Challenges of Implementing Critical Thinking Skills in Omani Post-Basic EFL Classrooms

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Al-Kindi, Naeema Saleh; AL-Mekhlafi, Abdo Mohammed

2017-01-01

The purpose of the current study is to investigate post-basic English teachers' practice of critical thinking skills and the challenges they face while teaching skills in EFL classrooms. Three research questions were investigated to achieve this purpose: 1--To what extent do EFL teachers use classroom behaviors that nurture critical thinking at…

Investigating 10-Year Trends of Learning Outcomes at Community Colleges. Research Report. ETS RR-13-34

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Ou Lydia; Roohr, Katrina Crotts

2013-01-01

Community colleges currently enroll about 44% of the undergraduate students in the United States and are rapidly expanding. It is of critical importance to obtain direct evidence of student learning to see if students receive adequate training at community colleges. This study investigated the 10-year trends of community college students' (n =…

Communicative Imagery: A Qualitative Investigation of the Effectiveness of a Behavior Change Strategy on the Chronically Mentally Ill.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lippard, Paula V.

An exploratory study investigated the success of a small group behavior change program in eliminating self-defeating behavior (SDB) in outpatients with chronic mental illness. Four of the six subjects were outpatients at the local mental health center but were currently not exhibiting psychotic behavior. The remaining two subjects were student…

An Investigation of Mobile Learning Readiness in Higher Education Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cheon, Jongpil; Lee, Sangno; Crooks, Steven M.; Song, Jaeki

2012-01-01

This study investigated the current state of college students' perceptions toward mobile learning in higher education. Mobile learning is a new form of learning utilizing the unique capabilities of mobile devices. Although mobile devices are ubiquitous on college campuses, student readiness for mobile learning has yet to be fully explored in the…

An Exploratory Investigation: Are Driving Simulators Appropriate to Teach Pre-Driving Skills to Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brooks, Johnell O.; Mossey, Mary E.; Tyler, Peg; Collins, James C.

2014-01-01

Research examining driver training for young adults with intellectual disabilities has been limited since the 1970s. The current pilot and exploratory study investigated teaching pre-driving skills (i.e. lane keeping and speed maintenance) to young adults with intellectual disabilities using an interactive driving simulator to provide dynamic and…

An Investigation into Prospective Science Teachers' Attitudes towards Laboratory Course and Self-Efficacy Beliefs in Laboratory Use

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Aka, Elvan Ince

2016-01-01

The aim of the current study is to identify the attitudes towards the laboratory course and self-efficacy beliefs in the laboratory use of prospective teachers who are attending Gazi University Gazi Education Faculty Primary Education Science Teaching program, and to investigate the relationship between the attitudes and self-efficacy beliefs.…

Investigating the Effect of Cooperative Learning and Competitive Learning Strategies on the English Vocabulary Development of Iranian Intermediate EFL Learners

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fekri, Neda

2016-01-01

The current study investigated the effect of cooperative and competitive learning strategies on the acquisition of English vocabulary development by Iranian EFL intermediate learners. In addition, it explored what type of theses strategies was more effective. In such doing, utilizing an Oxford Placement Test (OPT), 45 out of 77 Iranian EFL…

Using Corpus Linguistics to Examine the Extrapolation Inference in the Validity Argument for a High-Stakes Speaking Assessment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

LaFlair, Geoffrey T.; Staples, Shelley

2017-01-01

Investigations of the validity of a number of high-stakes language assessments are conducted using an argument-based approach, which requires evidence for inferences that are critical to score interpretation (Chapelle, Enright, & Jamieson, 2008b; Kane, 2013). The current study investigates the extrapolation inference for a high-stakes test of…

A quantity characterizing variation of observed magnetic twist in solar active regions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Yu

2018-03-01

An alternative parameter RJz is introduced as the ratio of one of two kinds of opposite-sign current to the total current and is used to investigate the relationship between this quantity and the hemispheric helicity sign rule (HSR) that has been established by a series of previous statistical studies. The classification of current in each hemisphere obeys the following rule: if the product of the current and the corresponding longitudinal field component contributes a consistent sign with respect to the HSR, it is called “HSR-compliant” current, otherwise it is called “HSR-noncompliant” current. Firstly, consistency between the butterfly diagram of RJz and current helicity was obtained in a statistical study. Active regions with RJz smaller than 0.5 tend to obey the HSR whereas those with RJz greater than 0.5 tend to disobey it. The “HSR-compliant” current systems have a 60% probability of realization compared to 40% for “HSR-noncompliant” current systems. Overall, the HSR is violated for active regions in which the “HSR-noncompliant” current is greater than the “HSR-compliant” current. Secondly, the parameter RJz was subsequently used to study the evolution of current systems in the case analyses of flare-productive active regions NOAA AR 11158 and AR 11283. It is found that there is a “RJz -quasi-stationary” phase that is relatively flare quiescent and “RJz -dynamic” phase that is characterized by the occurrence of large flares.

Advanced Turbofan Duct Liner Concepts

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bielak, Gerald W.; Premo, John W.; Hersh, Alan S.

1999-01-01

The Advanced Subsonic Technology Noise Reduction Program goal is to reduce aircraft noise by 10 EPNdB by the year 2000 relative, to 1992 technology. The improvement goal for nacelle attenuation is 25% relative to 1992 technology by 1997 and 50% by 2000. The Advanced Turbofan Duct Liner Concepts Task work by Boeing presented in this document was in support of these goals. The basis for the technical approach was a Boeing study conducted in 1993-94 under NASA/FAA contract NAS1-19349, Task 6, investigating broadband acoustic liner concepts. As a result of this work, it was recommended that linear double layer, linear and perforate triple layer, parallel element, and bulk absorber liners be further investigated to improve nacelle attenuations. NASA LaRC also suggested that "adaptive" liner concepts that would allow "in-situ" acoustic impedance control also be considered. As a result, bias flow and high-temperature liner concepts were also added to the investigation. The major conclusion from the above studies is that improvements in nacelle liner average acoustic impedance characteristics alone will not result in 25% increased nacelle noise reduction relative to 1992 technology. Nacelle design advancements currently being developed by Boeing are expected to add 20-40% more acoustic lining to hardwall regions in current inlets, which is predicted to result in and additional 40-80% attenuation improvement. Similar advancements are expected to allow 10-30% more acoustic lining in current fan ducts with 10-30% more attenuation expected. In addition, Boeing is currently developing a scarf inlet concept which is expected to give an additional 40-80% attenuation improvement for equivalent lining areas.

Dielectric studies of Graphene and Glass Fiber reinforced composites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Praveen, D.; Shashi Kumar, M. E.; Pramod, R.

2018-02-01

Graphene and E-glass fibres are one of the key materials used currently due to their unique chemical and mechanical properties. Lately graphene has attracted many researchers across academic fraternity as it can yield better properties with lesser reinforcement percentages. The current research emphasizes on the development of graphene-based nanocomposites and its investigation on dielectric applications. The composites were fabricated by adding graphene reinforcements from 1%-3% by weight using conventional Hand-lay process. A thorough investigation was carried out to determine the dielectric behaviour of the nano-composites using impedance analyser according to ASTM standards. The dielectric measurements were carried out in the temperature range of 300K to 400K in a step of 20K. The current research proposes the material for application in capacitor industry as the sample of 2.5% weight fraction showed highest value of K with 14 at 26.1 Hz and 403K.

Quantitative characterization of arc discharge as vacuum interface

DOE PAGES

Huang, S.; Zhu, K.; Lu, Y. R.; ...

2014-12-19

An arc discharge with channel diameters of 3 mm and 6 mm and lengths between 30mm and 60mm was experimentally investigated for its potential to function as plasma window, i.e., interface vacuum regions of different pressures. In this study, electron temperature of the plasma channel measured spectroscopically varied in the range of 7000K to 15000K, increasing with discharge current while decreasing with gas flow rate. The plasma window had a slightly positive I-V characteristics over the whole range of investigated current 30A–70 A. Measurements of pressure separation capability, which were determined by input current, gas flow rate, discharge channel diameter,more » and length, were well explained by viscosity effect and “thermal-block” effect. The experimental results of global parameters including temperature, gas flow rate, and voltage had a good agreement with the simulation results calculated by an axis-symmetry Fluent-based magneto-hydrodynamic model.« less

Psychosocial correlates of Internet addiction among Jordanian university students.

PubMed

Alzayyat, Abdulkarim; Al-Gamal, Ekhlas; Ahmad, Muayyad M

2015-04-01

Internet addiction is a significant international mental health problem among university students. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the correlation of Internet addiction with university students' characteristics in Jordan using a descriptive, correlational, cross-sectional design. The Internet Addiction Test, Beck Depression Inventory, and Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support were administered to a random sample of 587 undergraduate university students. The findings demonstrated that university year level, student age, depression, and family support were significant correlates of Internet addiction. The current study should raise awareness in nurses and other health care providers that Internet addiction is a potential mental health problem for this student population. The findings from the current study will help develop appropriate interventions for these students and inform future research. Copyright 2015, SLACK Incorporated.

Beliefs and Social Norms about Codeine and Promethazine Hydrochloride Cough Syrup (CPHCS) Onset and Perceived Addiction among Urban Houstonian Adolescents: An Addiction Trend in the City of Lean

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Peters, Ronald J., Jr.; Kelder, Steven H.; Markham, Christine M.; Yacoubian, George S., Jr.; Peters, LeCresha A.; Ellis, Artist

2003-01-01

In the current study, we used a qualitative approach to investigate relevant beliefs and norms associated with codeine and promethazine hydrochloride cough syrup (CPHCS) consumption, initiation, and perceived addiction among 48 alternative school students who identified themselves as current CPHCS users. In general, both boys and girls believed…

[Urology and Psychosomatics. A historical summary].

PubMed

Bernardy, Katrin; Köllner, V

2004-03-01

The investigation and description of psychosomatic interrelationships has a long tradition in the field of urology. At the beginning of last century, psychosomatic theories and therapies involving urologic questions were developed, some of which are still part of current therapeutic strategies. Numerous studies accentuated the need for a psychosomatic diagnostics and therapy of urologic diseases. The appreciation of psychosomatic urology is growing, a fact which is reflected in current urological teaching curricula.

Remedial investigation/feasibility study for the Clinch River/Poplar Creek operable unit. Volume 3. Appendix E

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

NONE

1995-09-01

This document contains Appendix E: Toxicity Information and Uncertainty Analysis, description of methods, from the combined Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study Report for the Clinch River/Poplar Crack (CR/PC) Operable Unit (OU). The CR/PC OU is located in Anderson and Roane Counties, Tennessee and consists of the Clinch River and several of its embayments in Melton Hill and Watts Bar Reservoirs. These waters have received hazardous substances released over a period of 50 years from the US Department of Energy`s Oak Ridge Reservation (ORR), a National Priority List site established under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act. A remedial investigation hasmore » been conducted to determine the current nature and extent of any contamination and to assess the resulting risk to human health and the environment. The feasibility study evaluates remedial action alternatives to identify any that are feasible for implementation and that would effectively reduce risk. Historical studies had indicated that current problems would likely include {sup 137}Cs in sediment of the Clinch River, mercury in sediment and fish of Poplar Creek and PCBs and pesticides in fish from throughout the OU. Peak releases of mercury and {sup 137}Cs occurred over 35 years ago, and current releases are low. Past releases of PCBs from the ORR are poorly quantified, and current releases are difficult to quantify because levels are so low. The site characterization focused on contaminants in surface water, sediment, and biota. Contaminants in surface water were all found to be below Ambient Water Quality Criteria. Other findings included the following: elevated metals including cesium 137 and mercury in McCoy Branch sediments; PCBs and chlordane elevated in several fish species, presenting the only major human health risk, significant ecological risks in Poplar Creek but not in the Clinch River.« less

Remedial investigation/feasibility study for the Clinch River/Poplar Creek operable unit. Volume 4. Appendix F

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

NONE

1995-09-01

This section contains ecotoxicological profiles for the COPECs for the combined Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study Report for the Clinch River/Poplar Crack (CR/PC) Operable Unit (OU). The ecotoxicological information is presented for only those endpoints for which the chemicals are COPECs. The CR/PC OU is located in Anderson and Roane Counties, Tennessee and consists of the Clinch River and several of its embayments in Melton Hill and Watts Bar Reservoirs. These waters have received hazardous substances released over a period of 50 years from the US Department of Energy`s Oak Ridge Reservation (ORR), a National Priority List site established under the Comprehensivemore » Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act. A remedial investigation has been conducted to determine the current nature and extent of any contamination and to assess the resulting risk to human health and the environment. The feasibility study evaluates remedial action alternatives to identify any that are feasible for implementation and that would effectively reduce risk. Historical studies had indicated that current problems would likely include {sup 137}Cs in sediment of the Clinch River, mercury in sediment and fish of Poplar Creek and PCBs and pesticides in fish from throughout the OU. Peak releases of mercury and {sup 137}Cs occurred over 35 years ago, and current releases are low. Past releases of PCBs from the ORR are poorly quantified, and current releases are difficult to quantify because levels are so low. The site characterization focused on contaminants in surface water, sediment, and biota. Contaminants in surface water were all found to be below Ambient Water Quality Criteria. Other findings included the following: elevated metals including cesium 137 and mercury in McCoy Branch sediments; PCBs and chlordane elevated in several fish species, presenting the only major human health risk, significant ecological risks in Poplar Creek but not in the Clinch River.« less

Climate change impacts in Iran: assessing our current knowledge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rahimi, Jaber; Malekian, Arash; Khalili, Ali

2018-02-01

During recent years, various studies have focused on investigating the direct and indirect impacts of climate changes in Iran while the noteworthy fact is the achievement gained by these researches. Furthermore, what should be taken into consideration is whether these studies have been able to provide appropriate opportunities for improving further studies in this particular field or not. To address these questions, this study systematically reviewed and summarized the current available literature (n = 150) regarding the impacts of climate change on temperature and precipitation in Iran to assess our current state of knowledge. The results revealed that while all studies discuss the probable changes in temperature and precipitation over the next decades, serious contradictions could be seen in their results; also, the general pattern of changes was different in most of the cases. This matter may have a significant effect on public beliefs in climate change, which can be a serious warning for the activists in this realm.

Experimental and analytical investigation on metal damage suffered from simulated lightning currents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yakun, LIU; Zhengcai, FU; Quanzhen, LIU; Baoquan, LIU; Anirban, GUHA

2017-12-01

The damage of two typical metal materials, Al alloy 3003 and steel alloy Q235B, subjected to four representative lightning current components are investigated by laboratory and analytical studies to provide fundamental data for lightning protection. The four lightning components simulating the natural lightning consist of the first return stroke, the continuing current of interval stroke, the long continuing current, and the subsequent stroke, with amplitudes 200 kA, 8 kA, 400 A, and 100 kA, respectively. The damage depth and area suffered from different lightning components are measured by the ultrasonic scanning system. And the temperature rise is measured by the thermal imaging camera. The results show that, for both Al 3003 and steel Q235B, the first return stroke component results in the largest damage area with damage depth 0.02 mm uttermost. The long continuing current component leads to the deepest damage depth of 3.3 mm for Al 3003 and much higher temperature rise than other components. The correlation analysis between damage results and lightning parameters indicates that the damage depth has a positive correlation with charge transfer. The damage area is mainly determined by the current amplitude and the temperature rise increases linearly with the charge transfer larger.

Turkish EFL Instructors' Perceived Importance of Motivational Strategies: A Descriptive Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ustuk, Özgehan

2018-01-01

This study investigated how important Turkish EFL teachers perceive the ELT motivational strategies that are implemented in adult EFL teaching. 52 EFL instructors working in preparatory schools of foreign languages in four state universities in Turkey participated in the current study. The perceived importance of ELT motivational strategies was…

Work Hours and Well Being: An Investigation of Moderator Effects

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pereira, Maria C.; Coelho, Filipe

2013-01-01

The relationship between work hours and subjective well being is marked by contradictory findings, thereby implying that it is far from being completely understood. A study of moderator effects can help explain variations in results across studies and, thus, overcome inconsistencies in past research. Accordingly, the current study aims to…

Understanding Effectiveness in School Administration: A Discourse Analysis

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Büyükgöze, Hilal

2016-01-01

The current paper primarily aims to investigate and interpret the observations, perceptions, and experiences of an effective school's principal through a qualitative approach. The study was designed as a case study. The participant of the study was a primary science education teacher with 17 years of experience in the profession who has been a…

A Corpus-Based Study on Turkish Spoken Productions of Bilingual Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Agçam, Reyhan; Bulut, Adem

2016-01-01

The current study investigated whether monolingual adult speakers of Turkish and bilingual adult speakers of Arabic and Turkish significantly differ regarding their spoken productions in Turkish. Accordingly, two groups of undergraduate students studying Turkish Language and Literature at a state university in Turkey were presented two videos on a…

A Survey of Student Teachers' Library Media Skills: A Replication.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thurman, Glenda B.

This study investigated the current status of student teachers' library media skills. The primary objective of the study was to replicate a 1966 survey by the Knapp Foundation Project that examined student teachers' knowledge of library resources and services. Other objectives were to expand the population studied to include all teacher education…

Pre-Service Mathematics Teachers' Pattern Conversion Ability: Generating Figural Patterns Based on Number Patterns

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kiliç, Çigdem

2017-01-01

In that current study, pattern conversion ability of 25 pre-service mathematics teachers (producing figural patterns following number patterns) was investigated. During the study participants were asked to generate figural patterns based on those number patterns. The results of the study indicate that many participants could generate different…

Learning Context When Studying Financial Planning in High Schools: Nesting of Student, Teacher, and Classroom Characteristics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Danes, Sharon M.; Rodriguez, Michael C.; Brewton, Katherine E.

2013-01-01

Grounded in social construction theory, the current study investigates the learning context when studying financial planning in high school by analyzing the nesting of student, teacher and classroom characteristics. Key findings were that three student characteristics (initial financial knowledge, gender, senior grade level), one teacher variable…

The Experiences of Portuguese-Speaking Families with Special-Needs Children as Related by the Mothers: An Ethnographic Interview Study.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tellier-Robinson, Dora

A study investigated the perceptions of Portuguese-speaking parents of children with disabilities concerning their involvement in their children's education. Specific aspects studied include their understanding of their involvement, nature and extent of current involvement, their ideals concerning involvement, and comparison with parents'…

Test Expectancy and Memory for Important Information

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Middlebrooks, Catherine D.; Murayama, Kou; Castel, Alan D.

2017-01-01

Prior research suggests that learners study and remember information differently depending upon the type of test they expect to later receive. The current experiments investigate how testing expectations impact the study of and memory for valuable information. Participants studied lists of words ranging in value from 1 to 10 points with the goal…

An Investigation of Relations among Academic Enablers and Reading Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jenkins, Lyndsay N.; Demaray, Michelle Kilpatrick

2015-01-01

The current study examined the link between academic enablers and different types of reading achievement measures. Academic enablers are skills and behaviors that support, or enable, students to perform well academically, such as engagement, interpersonal skills, motivation, and study skills. The sample in this study consisted of 61 third-,…

Associations among Teachers' Attitudes towards Computer-Assisted Education and TPACK Competencies

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baturay, Meltem Huri; Gökçearslan, Sahin; Sahin, Semsettin

2017-01-01

The current study investigates the attitudes of teachers towards Computer-Assisted Education (CAE) and their knowledge of technology, pedagogy and content via TPACK model that assesses the competencies for developing and implementing successful teaching. There were 280 participants in the study. The results of the study indicate that teachers'…

Integrated Application of Active Controls (IAAC) technology to an advanced subsonic transport project: Current and advanced act control system definition study. Volume 2: Appendices

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hanks, G. W.; Shomber, H. A.; Dethman, H. A.; Gratzer, L. B.; Maeshiro, A.; Gangsaas, D.; Blight, J. D.; Buchan, S. M.; Crumb, C. B.; Dorwart, R. J.

1981-01-01

The current status of the Active Controls Technology (ACT) for the advanced subsonic transport project is investigated through analysis of the systems technical data. Control systems technologies under examination include computerized reliability analysis, pitch axis fly by wire actuator, flaperon actuation system design trade study, control law synthesis and analysis, flutter mode control and gust load alleviation analysis, and implementation of alternative ACT systems. Extensive analysis of the computer techniques involved in each system is included.

Study of observed broad dielectric relaxation and compatibility of polysulfone - Polyvinylidenefluoride blends

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Patel, Swarnim; Shrivas, Sandhya; Dubey, R. K.; Keller, J. M.

2018-05-01

Short circuit thermally stimulated depolarization current measurement techniques has been employed to investigate the dielectric relaxation behavior of PSF: PVDF blends. The samples taken were blends of composition PSF: PVDF:: 80:20; 85:15; 90:10 and 95:05 percent by weight. The thermograms were characterized by a high value of initial current, a low temperature peak around 75-80°C and a prominent broad peak in the temperature interval 130 to 160°C. The two polymers are found to form compatible blend in the studied composition range.

Direct Electric Current Treatment under Physiologic Saline Conditions Kills Staphylococcus epidermidis Biofilms via Electrolytic Generation of Hypochlorous Acid

PubMed Central

Sandvik, Elizabeth L.; McLeod, Bruce R.; Parker, Albert E.; Stewart, Philip S.

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism by which a direct electrical current reduced the viability of Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms in conjunction with ciprofloxacin at physiologic saline conditions meant to approximate those in an infected artificial joint. Biofilms grown in CDC biofilm reactors were exposed to current for 24 hours in 1/10th strength tryptic soy broth containing 9 g/L total NaCl. Dose-dependent log reductions up to 6.7 log10 CFU/cm2 were observed with the application of direct current at all four levels (0.7 to 1.8 mA/cm2) both in the presence and absence of ciprofloxacin. There were no significant differences in log reductions for wells with ciprofloxacin compared to those without at the same current levels. When current exposures were repeated without biofilm or organics in the medium, significant generation of free chlorine was measured. Free chlorine doses equivalent to the 24 hour endpoint concentration for each current level were shown to mimic killing achieved by current application. Current exposure (1.8 mA/cm2) in medium lacking chloride and amended with sulfate, nitrate, or phosphate as alternative electrolytes produced diminished kills of 3, 2, and 0 log reduction, respectively. Direct current also killed Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms when NaCl was present. Together these results indicate that electrolysis reactions generating hypochlorous acid from chloride are likely a main contributor to the efficacy of direct current application. A physiologically relevant NaCl concentration is thus a critical parameter in experimental design if direct current is to be investigated for in vivo medical applications. PMID:23390518

Direct electric current treatment under physiologic saline conditions kills Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms via electrolytic generation of hypochlorous acid.

PubMed

Sandvik, Elizabeth L; McLeod, Bruce R; Parker, Albert E; Stewart, Philip S

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism by which a direct electrical current reduced the viability of Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms in conjunction with ciprofloxacin at physiologic saline conditions meant to approximate those in an infected artificial joint. Biofilms grown in CDC biofilm reactors were exposed to current for 24 hours in 1/10(th) strength tryptic soy broth containing 9 g/L total NaCl. Dose-dependent log reductions up to 6.7 log(10) CFU/cm(2) were observed with the application of direct current at all four levels (0.7 to 1.8 mA/cm(2)) both in the presence and absence of ciprofloxacin. There were no significant differences in log reductions for wells with ciprofloxacin compared to those without at the same current levels. When current exposures were repeated without biofilm or organics in the medium, significant generation of free chlorine was measured. Free chlorine doses equivalent to the 24 hour endpoint concentration for each current level were shown to mimic killing achieved by current application. Current exposure (1.8 mA/cm(2)) in medium lacking chloride and amended with sulfate, nitrate, or phosphate as alternative electrolytes produced diminished kills of 3, 2, and 0 log reduction, respectively. Direct current also killed Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilms when NaCl was present. Together these results indicate that electrolysis reactions generating hypochlorous acid from chloride are likely a main contributor to the efficacy of direct current application. A physiologically relevant NaCl concentration is thus a critical parameter in experimental design if direct current is to be investigated for in vivo medical applications.

A Study of Pragmatic Functions of Silence in Colloquial Jordanian Arabic

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Al-Harahsheh, Ahmad Mohammad Ahmad

2013-01-01

The pragmatic study of silence has not got much concern in the Arab world in general and in Jordanian Arabic in particular. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the perception and practice of silence in casual conversation in Jordanian society from a pragmatic point of view. This study adapts Volosinov's notion of…

Understanding Electrochemistry Concepts Using the Predict-Observe-Explain Strategy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karamustafaoglu, Sevilay; Mamlok-Naaman, Rachel

2015-01-01

The current study deals with freshman students who study at the Department of Science at the Faculty of Education. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of teaching electrochemistry concepts using Predict-Observe-Explain (POE) strategy. The study was quasi-experimental design using 20 students each in the experimental group (EG) and…

The Integration of Children with Disabilities into Regular Schools. A Naturalistic Study. Stage 2 Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Center, Yola; And Others

The study used a multiple case study method to investigate the quality of the educational and social experiences of elementary-level and secondary-level children with disabilities currently integrated within the Australian regular school system. This second stage of the study used for its sample 23 children with intellectual disabilities, 18 with…

Cartographic mapping study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilson, C.; Dye, R.; Reed, L.

1982-01-01

The errors associated with planimetric mapping of the United States using satellite remote sensing techniques are analyzed. Assumptions concerning the state of the art achievable for satellite mapping systems and platforms in the 1995 time frame are made. An analysis of these performance parameters is made using an interactive cartographic satellite computer model, after first validating the model using LANDSAT 1 through 3 performance parameters. An investigation of current large scale (1:24,000) US National mapping techniques is made. Using the results of this investigation, and current national mapping accuracy standards, the 1995 satellite mapping system is evaluated for its ability to meet US mapping standards for planimetric and topographic mapping at scales of 1:24,000 and smaller.

Cathode surface effects and H.F.-behaviour of vacuum arcs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Yan Hong

To gain a better understanding of the essential processes occurring during a vacuum arc interruption for the further development of the vacuum arc circuit breaker, cathode spot behavior, current interruption, dielectrical recovery and overvoltage generation are investigated. An experimental study on cathode spot behavior of the DC vacuum arc in relation to cathode surface roughness and a qualitative physical model to interpret the results are reported. An experimental investigation on the High Frequency (HF) current interruption, multiple recognitions and voltage escalation phenomena is reported. A calculation program to predict the level of overvoltages generated by the operation of a vacuum breaker in a realistic single phase circuit is developed. Detailed results are summarized.

Management Factors of Women in Leisure Services.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stefanics, Elizabeth T.

A study investigated past socialization processes that affected particular women's career choices and career mobility in the leisure services field. The study's purposes were: (1) to ascertain the presence of management-related success socialization factors in current female professionals and female students in the leisure services field within…

Encouraging Active School Travel by Making it "Cool": A Quasi-Experimental Study Using Boltage, Phase II

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-05-01

The research on childrens school travel has studied the impacts of the built environment on children walking or biking to school. This three-year research project contributes to current literature by investigating the role played by socio-psycholo...

Seeking a Multi-Construct Model of Morality

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McDaniel, Brenda L.; Grice, James W.; Eason, E. Allen

2010-01-01

The present study explored a multi-construct model of moral development. Variables commonly seen in the moral development literature, such as family interactions, spiritual life, ascription to various sources of moral authority, empathy, shame, guilt and moral judgement competence, were investigated. Results from the current study support previous…

Examining the Relationship between Math Scores and English Language Proficiency

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Henry, Denfield L.; Nistor, Nicolae; Baltes, Beate

2016-01-01

Multiple studies propose that English proficiency dictates English language learners' (ELLs) performances on mathematics assessments. The current study investigates the predictive power of English proficiency on mathematics scores, while controlling for gender, socioeconomic status (SES), and grade level among ELLs at a south Florida elementary…

ELF exposure from mobile and cordless phones for the epidemiological MOBI-Kids study.

PubMed

Calderón, Carolina; Ichikawa, Hiroki; Taki, Masao; Wake, Kanako; Addison, Darren; Mee, Terry; Maslanyj, Myron; Kromhout, Hans; Lee, Ae-Kyoung; Sim, Malcolm R; Wiart, Joe; Cardis, Elisabeth

2017-04-01

This paper describes measurements and computational modelling carried out in the MOBI-Kids case-control study to assess the extremely low frequency (ELF) exposure of the brain from use of mobile and cordless phones. Four different communication systems were investigated: Global System for Mobile (GSM), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) and Wi-Fi Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). The magnetic fields produced by the phones during transmission were measured under controlled laboratory conditions, and an equivalent loop was fitted to the data to produce three-dimensional extrapolations of the field. Computational modelling was then used to calculate the induced current density and electric field strength in the brain resulting from exposure to these magnetic fields. Human voxel phantoms of four different ages were used: 8, 11, 14 and adult. The results indicate that the current densities induced in the brain during DECT calls are likely to be an order of magnitude lower than those generated during GSM calls but over twice that during UMTS calls. The average current density during Wi-Fi VoIP calls was found to be lower than for UMTS by 30%, but the variability across the samples investigated was high. Spectral contributions were important to consider in relation to current density, particularly for DECT phones. This study suggests that the spatial distribution of the ELF induced current densities in brain tissues is determined by the physical characteristics of the phone (in particular battery position) while the amplitude is mainly dependent on communication system, thus providing a feasible basis for assessing ELF exposure in the epidemiological study. The number of phantoms was not large enough to provide definitive evidence of an increase of induced current density with age, but the data that are available suggest that, if present, the effect is likely to be very small. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Coil-current effect in Kibble balances: analysis, measurement, and optimization

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, S.; Bielsa, F.; Stock, M.; Kiss, A.; Fang, H.

2018-02-01

The Kibble balance is expected to become an important instrument in the near future for realizing the unit of mass, the kilogram, in the revised international system of units (SI). The Kibble balance assumes an equality of two magnetic profiles measured in the weighing and velocity phases. A recent study conducted in the Kibble balance group at the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM) showed that the coil current could significantly affect the magnetic profile, which should be carefully taken into account in the Kibble balance experiment. This paper gives a deeper understanding and investigation of the effect, and discusses the magnetic profile change due to the coil current, for both the classical two-mode and the one-mode Kibble balances. The coil current effect has been theoretically and experimentally investigated based on a typical magnet design with an air gap. One important conclusion found in the one-mode Kibble balance is that the magnetic profile change measured in the velocity phase is twice the change in the weighing phase. A compensation suggestion, to minimize the profile change due to the coil current in a BIPM-type magnet, is presented.

Apparent isotropic electrical property for electrical brain stimulation (EBS) using magnetic resonance diffusion weighted imaging (MR-DWI)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Mun Bae; Kwon, Oh-In

2018-04-01

Electrical brain stimulation (EBS) is an invasive electrotherapy and technique used in brain neurological disorders through direct or indirect stimulation using a small electric current. EBS has relied on computational modeling to achieve optimal stimulation effects and investigate the internal activations. Magnetic resonance diffusion weighted imaging (DWI) is commonly useful for diagnosis and investigation of tissue functions in various organs. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measures the intensity of water diffusion within biological tissues using DWI. By measuring trace ADC and magnetic flux density induced by the EBS, we propose a method to extract electrical properties including the effective extracellular ion-concentration (EEIC) and the apparent isotropic conductivity without any auxiliary additional current injection. First, the internal current density due to EBS is recovered using the measured one component of magnetic flux density. We update the EEIC by introducing a repetitive scheme called the diffusion weighting J-substitution algorithm using the recovered current density and the trace ADC. To verify the proposed method, we study an anesthetized canine brain to visualize electrical properties including electrical current density, effective extracellular ion-concentration, and effective isotropic conductivity by applying electrical stimulation of the brain.

Submarine laser communications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McConathy, D. R.

The Department of the Navy and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) are sponsoring a joint study to investigate the use of blue-green laser technology to comunicate with submarines at operating depths. Two approaches are under investigation - one in which the laser itself is space-based, and the other in which the laser is ground-based with its beam redirected to the earth's surface by an orbiting mirror. This paper discusses these two approaches, and presents a brief history of activities which led to the current studies.

Flexible thermal protection materials for entry systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kourtides, Demetrius A.

1993-02-01

Current programs addressed in aeroassist flight experiment are: (1) evaluation of thermal performance of advanced rigid and flexible insulations and reflective coating; (2) investigation of lighter than baseline materials; (3) investigation of rigid insulations which perform well; (4) study of flexible insulations which require ceramic coating; and (5) study of reflective coating effective at greater than 15 percent. In National Aerospace Plane (NASP), the programs addressed are: (1) high and low temperature insulations; and (2) attachment/standoff methodology critical which affects thermal performance.

Position-specific behaviors and their impact on crew performance: Implications for training

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Law, J. Randolph

1993-01-01

The present study was motivated by results from a preliminary report documenting the impact of specific crewmembers on overall crew performance (Wilhelm & Law, 1992), and a cross-airline cross-fleet project investigating human factors behaviors of commercial aviation flightcrews (Helmreich, Butler, Whilhelm, & Lofaro, 1992). The purpose of the current investigation is to study how position-specific behaviors impact flightcrew performance, and how these position-specific behaviors differ between two airlines and two flying environments. Implications for training will also be addressed.

Flexible thermal protection materials for entry systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kourtides, Demetrius A.

1993-01-01

Current programs addressed in aeroassist flight experiment are: (1) evaluation of thermal performance of advanced rigid and flexible insulations and reflective coating; (2) investigation of lighter than baseline materials; (3) investigation of rigid insulations which perform well; (4) study of flexible insulations which require ceramic coating; and (5) study of reflective coating effective at greater than 15 percent. In National Aerospace Plane (NASP), the programs addressed are: (1) high and low temperature insulations; and (2) attachment/standoff methodology critical which affects thermal performance.

Study of charge-phase diagrams for coupled system of Josephson junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamdipour, M.; Shukrinov, Y. U. M.

2010-11-01

Dynamics of stacked intrinsic Josephson junctions (IJJ) in the high-Tc superconductors is theoretically investigated. We calculate the current-voltage characteristics (CVC) of IJJ and study the breakpoint region on the outermost branch of the CVC for the stacks with 9 IJJ. A method for investigation of the fine structure in CVC of IJJ based on the recording the "phase-charge" diagrams is suggested. It is demonstrated that this method reflects the main features of the breakpoint region.

Local anesthetic lidocaine inhibits TRPM7 current and TRPM7-mediated zinc toxicity.

PubMed

Leng, Tian-Dong; Lin, Jun; Sun, Hua-Wei; Zeng, Zhao; O'Bryant, Zaven; Inoue, Koichi; Xiong, Zhi-Gang

2015-01-01

Previous study demonstrated that overstimulation of TRPM7 substantially contributes to zinc-mediated neuronal toxicity. Inhibition of TRPM7 activity and TRPM7-mediated intracellular Zn(2+) accumulation may represent a promising strategy in the treatment of stroke. To investigate whether local anesthetics lidocaine could inhibit TRPM7 channel and TRPM7-mediated zinc toxicity. Whole-cell patch-clamp technique was used to investigate the effect of local anesthetics on TRPM7 currents in cultured mouse cortical neurons and TRPM7-overexpressed HEK293 cells. Fluorescent Zn(2+) imaging technique was used to study the effect of lidocaine on TRPM7-mediated intracellular Zn(2+) accumulation. TRPM7-mediated zinc toxicity in neurons was used to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of lidocaine. (1) Lidocaine dose dependently inhibits TRPM7-like currents, with an IC50 of 11.55 and 11.06 mM in cultured mouse cortical neurons and TRPM7-overexpressed HEK293 cells, respectively; (2) Lidocaine inhibits TRPM7 currents in a use/frequency-dependent manner; (3) Lidocaine inhibits TRPM7-mediated intracellular Zn(2+) accumulation in both cortical neurons and TRPM7-overexpressed HEK293 cells; (4) TRPM7-mediated Zn(2+) toxicity is ameliorated by lidocaine in cortical neurons; (5) QX-314 has a similar inhibitory effect as lidocaine on TRPM7 currents when applied extracellularly; (6) Procaine also shows potent inhibitory effect on the TRPM7 currents in cortical neurons. Our data provide the first evidence that local anesthetic lidocaine inhibits TRPM7 channel and TRPM7-mediated zinc toxicity. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

The modelling of an SF6 arc in a supersonic nozzle: II. Current zero behaviour of the nozzle arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Q.; Liu, J.; Yan, J. D.; Fang, M. T. C.

2016-08-01

The present work (part II) forms the second part of an investigation into the behaviour of SF6 nozzle arc. It is concerned with the aerodynamic and electrical behaviour of a transient nozzle arc under a current ramp specified by a rate of current decay (di/dt) before current zero and a voltage ramp (dV/dt) after current zero. The five flow models used in part I [1] for cold gas flow and DC nozzle arcs have been applied to study the transient arc at three stagnation pressures (P 0) and two values of di/dt for the current ramp, representing a wide range of arcing conditions. An analysis of the physical mechanisms encompassed in each flow model is given with an emphasis on the adequacy of a particular model in describing the rapidly varying arc around current zero. The critical rate of rise of recovery voltage (RRRV) is found computationally and compared with test results of Benenson et al [2]. For transient nozzle arcs, the RRRV is proportional to the square of P 0, rather than to the square root of P 0 for DC nozzle arcs. The physical mechanisms responsible for the strong dependence of RRRV on P 0 have been investigated. The relative merits of the flow models employed are discussed.

Influence of magnet eddy current on magnetization characteristics of variable flux memory machine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Hui; Lin, Heyun; Zhu, Z. Q.; Lyu, Shukang

2018-05-01

In this paper, the magnet eddy current characteristics of a newly developed variable flux memory machine (VFMM) is investigated. Firstly, the machine structure, non-linear hysteresis characteristics and eddy current modeling of low coercive force magnet are described, respectively. Besides, the PM eddy current behaviors when applying the demagnetizing current pulses are unveiled and investigated. The mismatch of the required demagnetization currents between the cases with or without considering the magnet eddy current is identified. In addition, the influences of the magnet eddy current on the demagnetization effect of VFMM are analyzed. Finally, a prototype is manufactured and tested to verify the theoretical analyses.

Technical Note: Phantom study to evaluate the dose and image quality effects of a computed tomography organ-based tube current modulation technique.

PubMed

Gandhi, Diksha; Crotty, Dominic J; Stevens, Grant M; Schmidt, Taly Gilat

2015-11-01

This technical note quantifies the dose and image quality performance of a clinically available organ-dose-based tube current modulation (ODM) technique, using experimental and simulation phantom studies. The investigated ODM implementation reduces the tube current for the anterior source positions, without increasing current for posterior positions, although such an approach was also evaluated for comparison. Axial CT scans at 120 kV were performed on head and chest phantoms on an ODM-equipped scanner (Optima CT660, GE Healthcare, Chalfont St. Giles, England). Dosimeters quantified dose to breast, lung, heart, spine, eye lens, and brain regions for ODM and 3D-modulation (SmartmA) settings. Monte Carlo simulations, validated with experimental data, were performed on 28 voxelized head phantoms and 10 chest phantoms to quantify organ dose and noise standard deviation. The dose and noise effects of increasing the posterior tube current were also investigated. ODM reduced the dose for all experimental dosimeters with respect to SmartmA, with average dose reductions across dosimeters of 31% (breast), 21% (lung), 24% (heart), 6% (spine), 19% (eye lens), and 11% (brain), with similar results for the simulation validation study. In the phantom library study, the average dose reduction across all phantoms was 34% (breast), 20% (lung), 8% (spine), 20% (eye lens), and 8% (brain). ODM increased the noise standard deviation in reconstructed images by 6%-20%, with generally greater noise increases in anterior regions. Increasing the posterior tube current provided similar dose reduction as ODM for breast and eye lens, increased dose to the spine, with noise effects ranging from 2% noise reduction to 16% noise increase. At noise equal to SmartmA, ODM increased the estimated effective dose by 4% and 8% for chest and head scans, respectively. Increasing the posterior tube current further increased the effective dose by 15% (chest) and 18% (head) relative to SmartmA. ODM reduced dose in all experimental and simulation studies over a range of phantoms, while increasing noise. The results suggest a net dose/noise benefit for breast and eye lens for all studied phantoms, negligible lung dose effects for two phantoms, increased lung dose and/or noise for eight phantoms, and increased dose and/or noise for brain and spine for all studied phantoms compared to the reference protocol.

Thin current sheets observation by MMS during a near-Earth's magnetotail reconnection event

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nakamura, R.; Varsani, A.; Nakamura, T.; Genestreti, K.; Plaschke, F.; Baumjohann, W.; Nagai, T.; Burch, J.; Cohen, I. J.; Ergun, R.; Fuselier, S. A.; Giles, B. L.; Le Contel, O.; Lindqvist, P. A.; Magnes, W.; Schwartz, S. J.; Strangeway, R. J.; Torbert, R. B.

2017-12-01

During summer 2017, the four spacecraft of the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission traversed the nightside magnetotail current sheet at an apogee of 25 RE. They detected a number of flow reversal events suggestive of the passage of the reconnection current sheet. Due to the mission's unprecedented high-time resolution and spatial separation well below the ion scales, structure of thin current sheets is well resolved both with plasma and field measurements. In this study we examine the detailed structure of thin current sheets during a flow reversal event from tailward flow to Earthward flow, when MMS crossed the center of the current sheet . We investigate the changes in the structure of the thin current sheet relative to the X-point based on multi-point analysis. We determine the motion and strength of the current sheet from curlometer calculations comparing these with currents obtained from the particle data. The observed structures of these current sheets are also compared with simulations.

Neuronal current magnetic resonance imaging of evoked potentials and neural oscillations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Xia

Despite its great success, the current functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique relies on changes in cerebral hemodynamic parameters to infer the underlying neural activities, and as a result is limited in its spatial and temporal resolutions. In this dissertation, we discuss the feasibility of neuronal current MRI (nc-MRI), a novel technique in which the small magnetic field changes caused by neuronal electrical activities are directly measured by MRI. Two studies are described. In the first study, we investigated the feasibility of detecting the magnetic field produced by sensory evoked potentials. To eliminate the blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) effect on the MRI signal, which confounded most previous studies, an octopus visual system model was developed, which, for the first time, allowed for an in vivo investigation of nc-MRI in a BOLD-free environment. Electrophysiological responses were measured in the octopus retina and optical lobe to guide the nc-MRI acquisition. Our results indicated that no nc-MRI signal change related to neuronal activation could be detected at 0.2°/0.2% threshold for signal phase/magnitude respectively, while robust electrophysiological responses were recorded. In the second study, we discuss the feasibility of detecting neural oscillations with MRI, Based on previous studies, a novel approach was proposed in which an external oscillatory field was exploited as the excitation pulse under a spin-locked condition. This approach has the advantages of increased sensitivity and lowered physiological noise. Successful detection of sub-nanotesla field was demonstrated in phantom. Our results suggest that evoked potentials are too weak for nc-MRI detection with the current hardware, and that previous positive findings were likely due to hemodynamic confounders. On the other hand, oscillatory magnetic field can be efficiently detected in phantom. Given the stronger equivalent current dipoles produced by neural oscillations compared to evoked potentials, they might be a more promising candidate for future nc-MRI studies.

Positron Computed Tomography: Current State, Clinical Results and Future Trends

DOE R&D Accomplishments Database

Schelbert, H. R.; Phelps, M. E.; Kuhl, D. E.

1980-09-01

An overview is presented of positron computed tomography: its advantages over single photon emission tomography, its use in metabolic studies of the heart and chemical investigation of the brain, and future trends. (ACR)

Crack sealing and filling: best practices.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-10-01

This study investigated the current state of practice for crack sealing/filling. In addition, the INDOT crack sealing/filling practice was : experimentally evaluated for the effectiveness of crack sealing/filling, the effectiveness of routing, the pe...

Method development and qualification of capillary zone electrophoresis for investigation of therapeutic monoclonal antibody quality.

PubMed

Suba, Dávid; Urbányi, Zoltán; Salgó, András

2016-10-01

Capillary electrophoresis techniques are widely used in the analytical biotechnology. Different electrophoretic techniques are very adequate tools to monitor size-and charge heterogenities of protein drugs. Method descriptions and development studies of capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) have been described in literature. Most of them are performed based on the classical one-factor-at-time (OFAT) approach. In this study a very simple method development approach is described for capillary zone electrophoresis: a "two-phase-four-step" approach is introduced which allows a rapid, iterative method development process and can be a good platform for CZE method. In every step the current analytical target profile and an appropriate control strategy were established to monitor the current stage of development. A very good platform was established to investigate intact and digested protein samples. Commercially available monoclonal antibody was chosen as model protein for the method development study. The CZE method was qualificated after the development process and the results were presented. The analytical system stability was represented by the calculated RSD% value of area percentage and migration time of the selected peaks (<0.8% and <5%) during the intermediate precision investigation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The Effect of Creative Drama Method on the Attitude towards Course: A Meta-Analysis Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Toraman, Çetin; Ulubey, Özgür

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study is both to gather the experimental studies which investigate the effect of creative drama on the attitudes of students towards the courses and to synthesize the findings of these studies. The studies within the scope of this current research were obtained from various databases such as "ProQuest Citations, Council of…

Investigation of Post-mortem Tissue Effects Using Long-time Decorrelation Ultrasound

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Csány, Gergely; Balogh, Lajos; Gyöngy, Miklós

Decorrelation ultrasound is being increasingly used to investigate long-term biological phenomena. In the current work, ultrasound image sequences of mice who did not survive anesthesia (in a separate investigation) were analyzed and post-mortem tissue effects were observed via decorrelation calculation. A method was developed to obtain a quantitative parameter characterizing the rate of decorrelation. The results show that ultrasound decorrelation imaging is an effective method of observing post-mortem tissue effects and point to further studies elucidating the mechanism behind these effects.

Infection Management and Health Practices Among Forensic Science Investigators in South Korea.

PubMed

Cha, Kyeong-Sook; Cho, Ok-Hee; Yoo, Yang-Sook

2015-05-01

This study investigated the current status of infection management for forensic science investigators in South Korea. This study included 104 forensic science investigators, of which 97.1% were exposed to the blood or body fluids of corpses during handling. Of these investigators, 98% claimed they wore gloves, and 12.9% used double-layered gloves. A total of 70.6% of the participants with relevant work experience wore masks to reduce infection risk; 43% wore gowns and goggles when at risk of contracting an infection. Furthermore, 59.8% of the investigators with pertinent work experience sought appropriate first aid and treatment when they experienced contaminated skin cuts or stab wounds. Working conditions and other problems should be analyzed consistently with the cooperation of employees, occupational health practitioners, and relevant organizations to prevent work-associated infections among forensic science investigators. © 2015 The Author(s).

Investigating relations among stress, sleep and nail cortisol and DHEA.

PubMed

Doan, Stacey N; DeYoung, Gerrit; Fuller-Rowell, Thomas E; Liu, Cindy; Meyer, Jerrold

2018-03-01

In the current study, we present data investigating the relationships among stress, sleep disturbance, self-control, and levels of cortisol (CORT) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in fingernail clippings. Currently, hair CORT is the only routinely used noninvasive, validated, biomarker of chronic exposure to stress-related hormones. Nail clippings represent an important potential alternative sample matrix for assessing chronic hormone exposure, as it offers a different timeline of hormone incorporation than scalp hair, and may be obtainable from populations in which hair either is lacking or is unavailable for cultural reasons. Moreover, there is established precedent for using fingernail clippings to attain biomarker data. However, the value of nail hormone assessment for psychological research is currently unknown due to a paucity of information on the relations between nail hormone concentrations and environmental or psychological variables. In the present study, we collected data from a low income, minority population (N = 47; 97% African American) to demonstrate feasibility and acceptability of nail collection and analysis of the adrenal steroids CORT and DHEA. Participants reported on perceived stress, sleep and self-control abilities. Correlational analyses suggest that exposure to stressful events, disturbances in sleep and waking were associated with higher levels of nail DHEA, while self-control was associated with higher levels of nail CORT. We discuss the potential importance of this methodology for investigating biological, behavioral, and subjective indices of stress and well-being.

Investigation of urban science teachers' pedagogical engagements: Are urban science teachers culturally responsive?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Udokwu, Chukwudi John

This study utilized mixed methodology of quantitative and qualitative research approach to explore the current pedagogical engagements of twenty middle school urban science teachers in the Midwest region of the United States. It qualitatively examined twelve of these teachers' knowledge of culturally responsive pedagogy. The study investigated the following questions: What are the current pedagogical practices of urban middle school science teachers? To what extent are middle school science teachers' pedagogical practices in urban schools culturally responsive? What are urban students' perspectives of their teachers' current pedagogical engagements? The design of the study was qualitative and quantitative methods in order to investigate these teachers' pedagogical practices. Data collections were drawn from multiple sources such as lesson plans, students' sample works, district curriculum, surveys, observational and interview notes. Analysis of collected data was a mixed methodology that involved qualitative and quantitative methods using descriptive, interpretative, pattern codes, and statistical procedures respectively. Purposeful sampling was selected for this study. Thus, demographically there were twenty participants who quantitatively took part in this study. Among them were seven (35%) males and thirteen (65%) females, three (15%) African Americans and seventeen (85%) Caucasians. In determining to what extent urban science teachers' pedagogical practices were culturally responsive, eight questions were analyzed based on four cluster themes: (a) teachers' social disposition, (b) culturally responsive curriculum, (c) classroom interactions, and (d) power pedagogy. Study result revealed that only five (25%) of the participants were engaged in culturally responsive pedagogy while fifteen (75%) were engaged in what Haberman (1991) called the pedagogy of poverty. The goal was to investigate urban science teachers' pedagogical engagements and to examine urban students' perspective of their science teachers' pedagogical practices, and ensure that all students have a sense of ownership of their knowledge, a sense that is empowering and liberating. The implications of these findings were to promote urban students' achievements in science and see them employed in science and engineering. I hope this study helps in developing better professional development that will be culturally responsive and to ensure that all students have a sense of ownership of their knowledge.

Superstatistics analysis of the ion current distribution function: Met3PbCl influence study.

PubMed

Miśkiewicz, Janusz; Trela, Zenon; Przestalski, Stanisław; Karcz, Waldemar

2010-09-01

A novel analysis of ion current time series is proposed. It is shown that higher (second, third and fourth) statistical moments of the ion current probability distribution function (PDF) can yield new information about ion channel properties. The method is illustrated on a two-state model where the PDF of the compound states are given by normal distributions. The proposed method was applied to the analysis of the SV cation channels of vacuolar membrane of Beta vulgaris and the influence of trimethyllead chloride (Met(3)PbCl) on the ion current probability distribution. Ion currents were measured by patch-clamp technique. It was shown that Met(3)PbCl influences the variance of the open-state ion current but does not alter the PDF of the closed-state ion current. Incorporation of higher statistical moments into the standard investigation of ion channel properties is proposed.

Disruption of crystalline structure of Sn3.5Ag induced by electric current

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

Huang, Han-Chie; Lin, Kwang-Lung, E-mail: matkllin@mail.ncku.edu.tw; Wu, Albert T.

2016-03-21

This study presented the disruption of the Sn and Ag{sub 3}Sn lattice structures of Sn3.5Ag solder induced by electric current at 5–7 × 10{sup 3} A/cm{sup 2} with a high resolution transmission electron microscope investigation and electron diffraction analysis. The electric current stressing induced a high degree of strain on the alloy, as estimated from the X-ray diffraction (XRD) peak shift of the current stressed specimen. The XRD peak intensity of the Sn matrix and the Ag{sub 3}Sn intermetallic compound diminished to nearly undetectable after 2 h of current stressing. The electric current stressing gave rise to a high dislocation density ofmore » up to 10{sup 17}/m{sup 2}. The grain morphology of the Sn matrix became invisible after prolonged current stressing as a result of the coalescence of dislocations.« less

Into the Unknown: Aging with Autism Spectrum Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Perkins, Elizabeth A.; Berkman, Karen A.

2012-01-01

Research investigation of older adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) noticeably lags behind studies of children and younger adults with ASD. This article reviews the current literature regarding a range of quality of life outcomes of aging adults with ASD. Studies that have addressed life expectancy, comorbid physical and mental health…

Abnormal Amygdala and Prefrontal Cortex Activation to Facial Expressions in Pediatric Bipolar Disorder

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Garrett, Amy S.; Reiss, Allan L.; Howe, Meghan E.; Kelley, Ryan G.; Singh, Manpreet K.; Adleman, Nancy E.; Karchemskiy, Asya; Chang, Kiki D.

2012-01-01

Objective: Previous functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies in pediatric bipolar disorder (BD) have reported greater amygdala and less dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) activation to facial expressions compared to healthy controls. The current study investigates whether these differences are associated with the early or late…

An Investigation of Student Psychological Wellbeing: Honors versus Nonhonors Undergraduate Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Plominski, Abigail P.; Burns, Lawrence R.

2018-01-01

The purpose of this study was to describe the current state of psychological wellbeing in gifted and nongifted undergraduate student sample populations and identify undergraduate populations experiencing heightened levels of distress within a large Midwestern public university. Study participants included 641 honors and 386 nonhonors undergraduate…

Indicators of Dysphagia in Aged Care Facilities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pu, Dai; Murry, Thomas; Wong, May C. M.; Yiu, Edwin M. L.; Chan, Karen M. K.

2017-01-01

Purpose: The current cross-sectional study aimed to investigate risk factors for dysphagia in elderly individuals in aged care facilities. Method: A total of 878 individuals from 42 aged care facilities were recruited for this study. The dependent outcome was speech therapist-determined swallowing function. Independent factors were Eating…

Digital Citizenship Instruction in Pennsylvania Public Schools: School Leaders Expressed Beliefs and Current Practices

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Suppo, Chris A.

2013-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate digital citizenship in Pennsylvania public schools based on the responses of school leaders including superintendents, curriculum coordinators, and technology coordinators. This study examined the relationship between Pennsylvania school leader's beliefs and the implementation of digital citizenship…

Review of Professional Workers' Multicultural Competence: Implications in Korea

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, Romee; Heo, Gyeong Mi; Kim, Jinhee

2016-01-01

The importance of professional workers' multicultural competence (MC) is increasingly noted in Korea, which is shifting into a multicultural society. This study investigates the current location of the discussion regarding the MC of professional workers in Korea using reviews of existing studies in international and Korean contexts. This paper…

Chinese Middle School Teachers' Preferences Regarding Performance Evaluation Measures

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Liu, Shujie; Xu, Xianxuan; Stronge, James H.

2016-01-01

Teacher performance evaluation currently is receiving unprecedented attention from policy makers, scholars, and practitioners worldwide. This study is one of the few studies of teacher perceptions regarding teacher performance measures that focus on China. We employed a quantitative dominant mixed research design to investigate Chinese teachers'…

Prosodic Awareness and Children's Multisyllabic Word Reading

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Holliman, Andrew J.; Mundy, Ian R.; Wade-Woolley, Lesly; Wood, Clare; Bird, Chelsea

2017-01-01

Prosodic awareness (the rhythmic patterning of speech) accounts for unique variance in reading development. However, studies have thus far focused on early readers and utilised literacy measures which fail to distinguish between monosyllabic and multisyllabic words. The current study investigated the factors that are specifically associated with…

School Nurses' Knowledge of Autism Spectrum Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Strunk, Julie A.

2009-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine school nurses' working knowledge of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The current knowledge of school nurses was investigated by means of a mixed-method exploratory descriptive pilot study. Instrumentation included a scale that measured the knowledge of school nurses in regard to ASD, including medication…

Descriptive Study of Noncommercial FM Radio Stations Affiliated with Colleges and Universities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leidman, Mary Beth; Lamberski, Richard J.

Designed to establish a framework for current and future documentation of FM radio in institutions of higher education, this study examined the state of noncommercial FM radio stations affiliated with colleges and universities. Topics investigated included: (1) basic descriptions of institutions housing noncommercial radio stations; (2) operating…

Two Aspects of the Therapeutic Alliance: Differential Relations with Depressive Symptom Change

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Webb, Christian A.; Derubeis, Robert J.; Amsterdam, Jay D.; Shelton, Richard C.; Hollon, Steven D.; Dimidjian, Sona

2011-01-01

Objective: The therapeutic alliance has been linked to symptom change in numerous investigations. Although the alliance is commonly conceptualized as a multidimensional construct, few studies have examined its components separately. The current study explored which components of the alliance are most highly associated with depressive symptom…

Breastfeeding Duration Predicts Greater Maternal Sensitivity over the Next Decade

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weaver, Jennifer M.; Schofield, Thomas J.; Papp, Lauren M.

2018-01-01

The current study represents the first longitudinal investigation of the potential effects of breastfeeding duration on maternal sensitivity over the following decade. This study also examined whether infant attachment security at 24 months would mediate longitudinal relations between breastfeeding duration and changes in maternal sensitivity over…

Formation of furan fatty alkyl esters from their bis-epoxide fatty esters

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Epoxidation of vegetable oils and consecutive epoxide ring-opening reaction is a widely investigated path for producing biobased lubricants and polymers. The reaction mechanism and products are considered well-studied and known. In the current study, the reactions of epoxidized alkyl soyate with fou...

Patterns of Compensatory Behaviors and Disordered Eating in College Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schaumberg, Katherine; Anderson, Lisa M.; Reilly, Erin; Anderson, Drew A.

2014-01-01

Objective: The current study investigated rates of endorsement of eating-related compensatory behaviors within a college sample. Participants: This sample included male and female students (N = 1,158). Methods: Participants completed the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). The study defined 3 groups of students: those who did not…

Psychopharmacology Training and Canadian Counsellors: Are We Getting What We Want and Need?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schaefer, David; Wong-Wylie, Gina

2008-01-01

The psychopharmacology training experiences and attitudes of Canadian counsellors were the focus of our national Internet-based survey. This study was part of a larger investigation on Canadian counsellors' attitudes, practices, and training experiences related to clients on antidepressants. Results of the current study indicate Canadian…

POWER ANALYSIS OF LINEAR RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PERSONAL EXPOSURE AND INDOOR/OUTDOOR PM 2.5 CONCENTRATIONS AT BALTIMORE AND FRESNO

EPA Science Inventory

The National Exposure Research Laboratory is currently in the process of conducting panel studies to investigate personal exposure to particulate matter(PM). One of the primary goals of PM exposure studies is to establish mathematical relationships between personal exposure and...

Credentialism: Partners for Business Education. Working Papers of Planning and Development Research 90-6.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Protz, Maria

This study examined the current value of credentialism, extending the findings of an earlier report, "Business Training: Content, Enrollment and Delivery." The study acknowledged the distinction between various types of credentials, but focused primarily on professional business certification and investigated the potential for TVOntario…

Investigations in Mathematics Education, Vol. 10, No. 1.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Osborne, Alan R., Ed.

Eighteen research reports related to mathematics education are abstracted and analyzed. Studies include elementary, secondary, and college mathematics education areas. A majority of the studies relate to instruction and learning. Research related to mathematics education which was reported in RESOURCES IN EDUCATION and CURRENT INDEX TO JOURNALS IN…

Object-Location Memory: A Lesion-Behavior Mapping Study in Stroke Patients

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

van Asselen, Marieke; Kessels, Roy P. C.; Frijns, Catharina J. M.; Kappelle, L. Jaap; Neggers, Sebastiaan F. W.; Postma, Albert

2009-01-01

Object-location memory is an important form of spatial memory, comprising different subcomponents that each process specific types of information within memory, i.e. remembering objects, remembering positions and binding these features in memory. In the current study we investigated the neural correlates of binding categorical (relative) or…

The Development Effectiveness Management Model for Sub-District Secondary School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Butsankom, Akachai; Sirishuthi, Chaiyuth; Lammana, Preeda

2016-01-01

The purposes of this research were to study the factors of effectiveness management model for subdistrict secondary school, to investigate current situations and desirable situations of effectiveness management model for sub-district secondary school, to develop the effectiveness management model for sub-district secondary school and to study the…

Risk Perception in Smokers with Children with Asthma

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wagener, Theodore L.; Gregor, Kristin L.; Busch, Andrew M.; McQuaid, Elizabeth L.; Borrelli, Belinda

2010-01-01

Objective: No studies have examined the relationship between caregiver beliefs about the risks of smoking to their own health and caregiver beliefs about the effect of their smoking on their child's health. In the current study, we investigated our proposed "risk congruence hypothesis" among caregivers who smoke. Specifically, we investigated…

Teachers' Knowledge about and Views of the National Standards for Physical Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chen, Weiyun

2006-01-01

This study investigated the current levels of teachers' knowledge about and views of the National Standards for Physical Education (NASPE, 1995) and factors that influenced the teachers' understandings and interpretations of the standards. Twenty-five elementary and secondary physical education teachers voluntarily participated in this study. Data…

Taiwanese Model of Early Intervention Needs Assessment System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ho, Hua-Kuo

2008-01-01

The purpose of this study was intended to investigate the current system of early intervention needs assessment in Taiwan in order to understand the problems encountered and provide the coping strategies for improving the system. Documentary analysis, phone interview and participant observation were employed in the study to collect the research…

Students' Views on Contextual Vocabulary Teaching: A Constructivist View

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tosun, Bahadir Cahit

2016-01-01

The current study is a quantitative research that aims to throw light on the place of students' views on contextual vocabulary teaching in conformity with Constructivism (CVTC) in the field of foreign language teaching. Hence, the study investigates whether any significant correlation exists between the fourth year university students' attitudes…

Academic Discipline and Personal Finance Instruction in High School

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Loibl, Cäzilia; Fisher, Patti J.

2013-01-01

Despite public support for personal finance instruction in high school, its effectiveness has not been firmly established. The current study investigates instructional approaches as a reason for these inconsistent outcomes by comparing survey responses of business education, family and consumer sciences, and social studies/economics teachers. The…

Third Grade Elementary Students' Perception of Science

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Demir, Metin

2015-01-01

The current study investigated which dimensions of scientific process are capitalized on by elementary school third graders to explain the concept of science at conceptual level. The study was conducted by using "Basic Qualitative Research", one of the qualitative research approaches with the participation of 225 elementary school third…

The Neural Substrates of Cognitive Control Deficits in Autism Spectrum Disorders

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Solomon, Marjorie; Ozonoff, Sally J.; Ursu, Stefan; Ravizza, Susan; Cummings, Neil; Ly, Stanford; Carter, Cameron S.

2009-01-01

Executive function deficits are among the most frequently reported symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), however, there have been few functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies that investigate the neural substrates of executive function deficits in ASDs, and only one in adolescents. The current study examined cognitive…

Strategic Retrieval in a Reality Monitoring Task

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rosburg, Timm; Mecklinger, Axel; Johansson, Mikael

2011-01-01

Strategic recollection refers to control processes that allow the retrieval of information that is relevant for a specific situation. These processes can be studied in memory exclusion tasks, which require the retrieval of particular kinds of episodic information. In the current study, we investigated strategic recollection in reality monitoring…

Improving Approximate Number Sense Abilities in Preschoolers: PLUS Games

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Van Herwegen, Jo; Costa, Hiwet Mariam; Passolunghi, Maria Chiara

2017-01-01

Previous studies in both typically and atypically developing children have shown that approximate number system (ANS) abilities predict formal mathematical knowledge later on in life. The current study investigated whether playing specially designed training games that targets the ANS system using nonsymbolic stimuli only would improve preschool…

Beating the Odds: A Longitudinal Investigation of Low-Income Dual-Language and Monolingual Children's English Language and Literacy Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Han, Myae; Vukelich, Carol; Buell, Martha; Meacham, Sohyun

2014-01-01

Research Findings: The current study reports on the results of a longitudinal investigation of the language and early literacy development of a sample of dual-language learners (DLLs) and monolingual English speakers from low-income families who received an Early Reading First intervention during their Head Start preschool year. A total of 62…

An Investigation into the Effect of Play-Based Instruction on the Development of Play Skills and Oral Language

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stagnitti, Karen; Bailey, Alison; Hudspeth Stevenson, Edwina; Reynolds, Emily; Kidd, Evan

2016-01-01

The current study investigated the influence of a play-based curriculum on the development of pretend play skills and oral language in children attending their first year of formal schooling. In this quasi-experimental design, two groups of children were followed longitudinally across the first 6 months of their first year at school. The children…

Investigation of the Effects of the Social Power and Social Distance on the Realization of Apology between Jordanian and English Cultures

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Al-Khaza'leh, Bilal Ayed; ZainalAriff, Tun Nur Afizah

2015-01-01

The current study investigated the influence of context-external variables; social power (High, Equal and Low) and social distance (Familiar and Unfamiliar) on the perception of Jordanian and English speech act of apology. Discourse Completion Test (DCT) and Scaled Response Questionnaire (SRQ) were used to elicit data from three groups: 40…

Need for Social Approval and Happiness in College Students: The Mediation Role of Social Anxiety

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karasar, Burcu; Baytemir, Kemal

2018-01-01

The reflection of the presence or absence of social relationships as a basic human need on the individual has been investigated in different ways. The purpose of the current study is to investigate the mediation role of social anxiety in the relationship between the need for social approval and happiness. A total of 285 students, of whom 212…

Theory of Mind Skills in Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Investigating the Influence of Peer Coaches and Mind Reading Software

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fox, Mary Murphy

2012-01-01

The current study investigated Theory of Mind in young adults with autism. The young adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) consisted of four students between the ages of 18 and 19 from an on-campus program for students with autism located at Marywood University in Northeastern Pennsylvania. It was hypothesized that "Mind Reading",…

An Investigation of How the Channel of Input and Access to Test Questions Affect L2 Listening Test Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wagner, Elvis

2013-01-01

The use of video technology has become widespread in the teaching and testing of second-language (L2) listening, yet research into how this technology affects the learning and testing process has lagged. The current study investigated how the channel of input (audiovisual vs. audio-only) used on an L2 listening test affected test-taker…

Investigating Facial Electromyography as an Indicator of Cognitive Workload

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-02-22

Investigating Facial Electromyography as an Indicator of Cognitive Workload 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) 5d...Symposium on Aviation Psychology (ISAP) 9 – 11 May 2017 14. ABSTRACT Facial electromyography (fEMG) is an electromyographic measurement technique... cognitive workload. In the current study, two task-irrelevant facial muscles, corrugator supercilli and lateral frontalis, were monitored in real- time to

Okay, Our Courses Are Online, but Are They ADA Compliant? An Investigation of Faculty Awareness of Accessibility at a Midwestern University

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Huss, John A.; Eastep, Shannon

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate the current extent of our faculty's familiarity with the rights, responsibilities, and resources pertaining to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 508 of the Workforce Rehabilitation Act insofar as compliance and accommodations for online courses. Through the collection of data we…

Investigating the Relationships among Teacher Social Capital, Teaching Practice, and Student Achievement across Measures and Models

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schaaf, Kevin J.

2017-01-01

The quality of teachers is now a central focus of policy and research. In spite of this focus, two key gaps exist, and this dissertation helps to fill them: First, mediation models involving the study of the effects of teaching are rare; instead, most current investigations of teachers focus primarily on the effects of teachers, with less…

A Critical Investigation of the Nature and Extent of Cyberbullying in Two Post-Primary Schools in Northern Ireland

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Purdy, Noel; York, Leanne

2016-01-01

This study aimed to investigate internet usage among post-primary pupils in years 9, 11 and 13 in two contrasting post-primary schools in Northern Ireland, the nature and incidence of cyberbullying among these pupils, and the ways in which their schools are currently addressing the problem. A mixed methodological approach was adopted: a paper…

Speech Research: A Report on the Status and Progress of Studies on the Nature of Speech, Instrumentation for Its Investigation, and Practical Applications, 1 April - 30 June 1973.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haskins Labs., New Haven, CT.

This document, containing 15 articles and 2 abstracts, is a report on the current status and progress of speech research. The following topics are investigated: phonological fusion, phonetic prerequisites for first-language learning, auditory and phonetic levels of processing, auditory short-term memory in vowel perception, hemispheric…

Comparing Teaching Approaches About Maxwell's Displacement Current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Karam, Ricardo; Coimbra, Debora; Pietrocola, Maurício

2014-08-01

Due to its fundamental role for the consolidation of Maxwell's equations, the displacement current is one of the most important topics of any introductory course on electromagnetism. Moreover, this episode is widely used by historians and philosophers of science as a case study to investigate several issues (e.g. the theory-experiment relationship). Despite the consensus among physics educators concerning the relevance of the topic, there are many possible ways to interpret and justify the need for the displacement current term. With the goal of understanding the didactical transposition of this topic more deeply, we investigate three of its domains: (1) The historical development of Maxwell's reasoning; (2) Different approaches to justify the term insertion in physics textbooks; and (3) Four lectures devoted to introduce the topic in undergraduate level given by four different professors. By reflecting on the differences between these three domains, significant evidence for the knowledge transformation caused by the didactization of this episode is provided. The main purpose of this comparative analysis is to assist physics educators in developing an epistemological surveillance regarding the teaching and learning of the displacement current.

The Perceived Invalidation of Emotion Scale (PIES): Development and psychometric properties of a novel measure of current emotion invalidation.

PubMed

Zielinski, Melissa J; Veilleux, Jennifer C

2018-05-24

Emotion invalidation is theoretically and empirically associated with mental and physical health problems. However, existing measures of invalidation focus on past (e.g., childhood) invalidation and/or do not specifically emphasize invalidation of emotion. In this article, the authors articulate a clarified operational definition of emotion invalidation and use that definition as the foundation for development of a new measure of current perceived emotion invalidation across a series of five studies. Study 1 was a qualitative investigation of people's experiences with emotional invalidation from which we generated items. An initial item pool was vetted by expert reviewers in Study 2 and examined via exploratory factor analysis in Study 3 within both college student and online samples. The scale was reduced to 10 items via confirmatory factor analysis in Study 4, resulting in a brief but psychometrically promising measure, the Perceived Invalidation of Emotion Scale (PIES). A short-term longitudinal investigation (Study 5) revealed that PIES scores had strong test-retest reliability, and that greater perceived emotion invalidation was associated with greater emotion dysregulation, borderline features and symptoms of emotional distress. In addition, the PIES predicted changes in relational health and psychological health over a 1-month period. The current set of studies thus presents a psychometrically promising and practical measure of perceived emotion invalidation that can provide a foundation for future research in this burgeoning area. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved).

Zebrafish as a model for acetylcholinesterase-inhibiting organophosphorus agent exposure and oxime reactivation

PubMed Central

Koenig, Jeffrey A.; Dao, Thuy L.; Kan, Robert K.; Shih, Tsung-Ming

2016-01-01

The current research progression efforts for investigating novel treatments for exposure to organophosphorus (OP) compounds that inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE), including pesticides and chemical warfare nerve agents (CWNAs), rely solely on in vitro cell assays and in vivo rodent models. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) is a popular, well-established vertebrate model in biomedical research that offers high-throughput capabilities and genetic manipulation not readily available with rodents. A number of research studies have investigated the effects of subacute developmental exposure to OP pesticides in zebrafish, observing detrimental effects on gross morphology, neuronal development, and behavior. Few studies, however, have utilized this model to evaluate treatments, such as oxime reactivators, anticholinergics, or anticonvulsants, following acute exposure. Preliminary work has investigated the effects of CWNA exposure. The results clearly demonstrated relative toxicity and oxime efficacy similar to that reported for the rodent model. This review surveys the current literature utilizing zebrafish as a model for OP exposure and highlights its potential use as a high-throughput system for evaluating AChE reactivator antidotal treatments to acute pesticide and CWNA exposure. PMID:27123828

Data mining and medical world: breast cancers' diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and challenges.

PubMed

Oskouei, Rozita Jamili; Kor, Nasroallah Moradi; Maleki, Saeid Abbasi

2017-01-01

The amount of data in electronic and real world is constantly on the rise. Therefore, extracting useful knowledge from the total available data is very important and time consuming task. Data mining has various techniques for extracting valuable information or knowledge from data. These techniques are applicable for all data that are collected inall fields of science. Several research investigations are published about applications of data mining in various fields of sciences such as defense, banking, insurances, education, telecommunications, medicine and etc. This investigation attempts to provide a comprehensive survey about applications of data mining techniques in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment & prognosis till now. Further, the main challenges in these area is presented in this investigation. Since several research studies currently are going on in this issues, therefore, it is necessary to have a complete survey about all researches which are completed up to now, along with the results of those studies and important challenges which are currently exist in this area for helping young researchers and presenting to them the main problems that are still exist in this area.

Current research trends on plastic pollution and ecological impacts on the soil ecosystem: A review.

PubMed

Chae, Yooeun; An, Youn-Joo

2018-05-09

Plastic pollution in the environment is currently receiving worldwide attention. Improper dumping of disused or abandoned plastic wastes leads to contamination of the environment. In particular, the disposal of municipal wastewater effluent, sewage sludge landfill, and plastic mulch from agricultural activities is a serious issue and of major concern regarding soil pollution. Compared to plastic pollution in the marine and freshwater ecosystems, that in the soil ecosystem has been relatively neglected. In this study, we discussed plastic pollution in the soil environment and investigated research on the effects of plastic wastes, especially microplastics, on the soil ecosystem. We found that earthworms have been predominantly used as the test species in investigating the effects of soil plastic pollution on organisms. Therefore, further research investigating the effects of plastic on other species models (invertebrates, plants, microorganisms, and insects) are required to understand the effects of plastic pollution on the overall soil ecosystem. In addition, we suggest other perspectives for future studies on plastic pollution and soil ecotoxicity of plastics wastes, providing a direction for such research. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Data mining and medical world: breast cancers’ diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and challenges

PubMed Central

Oskouei, Rozita Jamili; Kor, Nasroallah Moradi; Maleki, Saeid Abbasi

2017-01-01

The amount of data in electronic and real world is constantly on the rise. Therefore, extracting useful knowledge from the total available data is very important and time consuming task. Data mining has various techniques for extracting valuable information or knowledge from data. These techniques are applicable for all data that are collected inall fields of science. Several research investigations are published about applications of data mining in various fields of sciences such as defense, banking, insurances, education, telecommunications, medicine and etc. This investigation attempts to provide a comprehensive survey about applications of data mining techniques in breast cancer diagnosis, treatment & prognosis till now. Further, the main challenges in these area is presented in this investigation. Since several research studies currently are going on in this issues, therefore, it is necessary to have a complete survey about all researches which are completed up to now, along with the results of those studies and important challenges which are currently exist in this area for helping young researchers and presenting to them the main problems that are still exist in this area. PMID:28401016

Revisiting Antipsychotic-induced Akathisia: Current Issues and Prospective Challenges

PubMed Central

Salem, Haitham; Nagpal, Caesa; Pigott, Teresa; Teixeira, Antonio Lucio

2017-01-01

Background: Akathisia continues to be a significant challenge in current neurological and psychiatric practice. Prompt and accurate detection is often difficult and there is a lack of consensus concerning the neurobiological basis of akathisia. No definitive treatment has been established for akathisia despite numerous preclinical and clinical studies. Method: We reviewed antipsychotic-induced akathisia including its clinical presentation, proposed underlying pathophysiology, current and under investigation therapeutic strategies. Conclusion: Despite the initial promise that second generation antipsychotics would be devoid of akathisia effects, this has not been confirmed. Currently, there are limited therapeutic options for the clinical practice and the evidence supporting the most widely used treatments (beta blockers, anticholinergic drugs) is still absent or inconsistent. PMID:27928948

A comparative study on electrical characteristics of 1-kV pnp and npn SiC bipolar junction transistors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Okuda, Takafumi; Kimoto, Tsunenobu; Suda, Jun

2018-04-01

We investigate the electrical characteristics of 1-kV pnp SiC bipolar junction transistors (BJTs) and compare them with those of npn SiC BJTs. The base resistance, current gain, and blocking capability are characterized. It is found that the base resistance of pnp SiC BJTs is two orders of magnitude lower than that of npn SiC BJTs. However, the obtained current gains are low below unity in pnp SiC BJTs, whereas npn SiC BJTs exhibit a current gain of 14 without surface passivation. The reason for the poor current gain of pnp SiC BJTs is discussed.

Analytical modeling and analysis of magnetic field and torque for novel axial flux eddy current couplers with PM excitation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Zhao; Wang, Dazhi; Zheng, Di; Yu, Linxin

2017-10-01

Rotational permanent magnet eddy current couplers are promising devices for torque and speed transmission without any mechanical contact. In this study, flux-concentration disk-type permanent magnet eddy current couplers with double conductor rotor are investigated. Given the drawback of the accurate three-dimensional finite element method, this paper proposes a mixed two-dimensional analytical modeling approach. Based on this approach, the closed-form expressions of magnetic field, eddy current, electromagnetic force and torque for such devices are obtained. Finally, a three-dimensional finite element method is employed to validate the analytical results. Besides, a prototype is manufactured and tested for the torque-speed characteristic.

Current and efficiency of Brownian particles under oscillating forces in entropic barriers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nutku, Ferhat; Aydιner, Ekrem

2015-04-01

In this study, considering the temporarily unbiased force and different forms of oscillating forces, we investigate the current and efficiency of Brownian particles in an entropic tube structure and present the numerically obtained results. We show that different force forms give rise to different current and efficiency profiles in different optimized parameter intervals. We find that an unbiased oscillating force and an unbiased temporal force lead to the current and efficiency, which are dependent on these parameters. We also observe that the current and efficiency caused by temporal and different oscillating forces have maximum and minimum values in different parameter intervals. We conclude that the current or efficiency can be controlled dynamically by adjusting the parameters of entropic barriers and applied force. Project supported by the Funds from Istanbul University (Grant No. 45662).

Effects of early exposure to phthalates and bisphenols on cardiometabolic outcomes in pregnancy and childhood.

PubMed

Philips, Elise M; Jaddoe, Vincent W V; Trasande, Leonardo

2017-03-01

Pregnant women are exposed to various chemicals, including endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as phthalates and bisphenols. Increasing evidence suggests that early life exposures to phthalates and bisphenols may contribute to cardiometabolic risks. The aim of this narrative review was to summarize current knowledge of the effects of fetal and childhood exposure to phthalates and bisphenols on child growth and child cardiometabolic outcomes and the effects on maternal outcomes. In total, 54 studies were identified and included. The majority of studies found effects of phthalates and bisphenols on maternal, child growth, and cardiometabolic outcomes. Currently results suggest that early life exposure to phthalates and bisphenols may have a substantial influence on perinatal and postnatal cardiometabolic programming. In a large part of the investigated outcomes studies show contradictory results. However, the majority of the existing evidence is based on non-cohort studies with single samples neglecting time-variant effects and complicating conclusions regarding causal inference. More studies are needed investigating the mechanisms and its potential interactions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Research of aluminum alloys with using eddy-current transducers on the basis of cores of various form

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dmitriev, S. F.; Ishkov, A. V.; Katasonov, A. O.; Malikov, V. N.; Sagalakov, A. M.

2018-01-01

The research aims to develop a microminiature eddy current transducer for aluminum alloys. The research topic is considered relevant due to the need for evaluation and forecasting of safe operating life of aluminum. A microminiature transformer-type transducer was designed, which enables to perform local investigations of unferromagnetic materials using eddy-current method based on local studies conductivity. Having the designed transducer as a basis, a hardware-software complex was built to perform experimental studies of aluminium. Cores with different shapes were used in this work. Test results are reported for a flaws in the form of hidden slits and apertures inside the slabs is derived for excitation coil frequencies of 300-700 Hz.

Liposomal nanocarriers for tumor imaging.

PubMed

Erdogan, Suna

2009-04-01

Currently used imaging modalities such as scintigraphy, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography require the sufficient intensity of a corresponding signal from an area of interest to differentiate this area from the surrounding tissues. Targeting of various reporter moieties directly to the specific organs, tissues or tumors provide the highest dose of drug directly where it is needed. Many different types of nanoparticles are currently being studied for applications in nanomedicine. Among particulate drug carriers, liposomes are one of the most extensively studied and possess the most suitable characteristics for encapsulation of many drugs, genes, and diagnostic (imaging) agents. Among the many potential targets for such nanocarriers, tumors have been most often investigated. This review attempts to summarize the currently available information regarding liposomal nanocarriers for cancer imaging.

Surface Passivation of CdZnTe Detector by Hydrogen Peroxide Solution Etching

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hayes, M.; Chen, H.; Chattopadhyay, K.; Burger, A.; James, R. B.

1998-01-01

The spectral resolution of room temperature nuclear radiation detectors such as CdZnTe is usually limited by the presence of conducting surface species that increase the surface leakage current. Studies have shown that the leakage current can be reduced by proper surface preparation. In this study, we try to optimize the performance of CdZnTe detector by etching the detector with hydrogen peroxide solution as function of concentration and etching time. The passivation effect that hydrogen peroxide introduces have been investigated by current-voltage (I-V) measurement on both parallel strips and metal-semiconductor-metal configurations. The improvements on the spectral response of Fe-55 and 241Am due to hydrogen peroxide treatment are presented and discussed.

Nanopipette delivery: influence of surface charge.

PubMed

Shi, Wenqing; Sa, Niya; Thakar, Rahul; Baker, Lane A

2015-07-21

In this report, transport through a nanopipette is studied and the interplay between current rectification and ion delivery for small pipettes is examined. First, surface charge dependence of concentration polarization effects in a quartz nanopipette was investigated. Electrical characterization was performed through current-potential (I-V) measurements. In addition, fluorescein (an anionic fluorescent probe) was utilized to optically map ion enrichment and ion depletion in the nanopipette tip. Bare nanopipettes and polyethylenimine (PEI)-modified nanopipettes were examined. Results confirm that concentration polarization is a surface charge dependent phenomenon and delivery can be controlled through modification of surface charge. The relationship between concentration polarization effects and voltage-driven delivery of charged electroactive species was investigated with a carbon ring/nanopore electrode fabricated from pyrolyzed parylene C (PPC). Factors such as surface charge polarity of the nanopipette, electrolyte pH, and electrolyte concentration were investigated. Results indicate that with modification of surface charge, additional control over delivery of charged species can be achieved.

An Investigative Redesign of the ECG and EMG Signal Conditioning Circuits for Two-fault Tolerance and Circuit Improvement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Obrien, Edward M.

1991-01-01

An investigation was undertaken to make the elctrocardiography (ECG) and the electromyography (EMG) signal conditioning circuits two-fault tolerant and to update the circuitry. The present signal conditioning circuits provide at least one level of subject protection against electrical shock hazard but at a level of 100 micro-A (for voltages of up to 200 V). However, it is necessary to provide catastrophic fault tolerance protection for the astronauts and to provide protection at a current level of less that 100 micro-A. For this study, protection at the 10 micro-A level was sought. This is the generally accepted value below which no possibility of microshock exists. Only the possibility of macroshock exists in the case of the signal conditioners. However, this extra amount of protection is desirable. The initial part deals with current limiter circuits followed by an investigation into the signal conditioner specifications and circuit design.

Neurocognitive poetics: methods and models for investigating the neuronal and cognitive-affective bases of literature reception.

PubMed

Jacobs, Arthur M

2015-01-01

A long tradition of research including classical rhetoric, esthetics and poetics theory, formalism and structuralism, as well as current perspectives in (neuro)cognitive poetics has investigated structural and functional aspects of literature reception. Despite a wealth of literature published in specialized journals like Poetics, however, still little is known about how the brain processes and creates literary and poetic texts. Still, such stimulus material might be suited better than other genres for demonstrating the complexities with which our brain constructs the world in and around us, because it unifies thought and language, music and imagery in a clear, manageable way, most often with play, pleasure, and emotion (Schrott and Jacobs, 2011). In this paper, I discuss methods and models for investigating the neuronal and cognitive-affective bases of literary reading together with pertinent results from studies on poetics, text processing, emotion, or neuroaesthetics, and outline current challenges and future perspectives.

Heterogenous Material Integration and Band Engineering With Type II Superlattice

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-10-26

tunneling or surface effects. A careful variable area diode study is needed to investigate the effect of surfaces in this low temperature regime. In the mid...theoretically predicted advantages of T2SL over bulk MCT detectors, including lower tunneling currents [1] and suppressed Auger recombination rates [2...The tunneling currents are also reduced due to significant reduction in field drop. Thus the device can be made diffusion limited over wide range of

Implications of Automotive and Trucking On-Board Information Systems for General Aviation Cockpit Weather Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sireli, Yesim; Kauffmann, Paul; Gupta, Surabhi; Kachroo, Pushkin

2002-01-01

In this study, current characteristics and future developments of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) in the automobile and trucking industry are investigated to identify the possible implications of such systems for General Aviation (GA) cockpit weather systems. First, ITS are explained based on tracing their historical development in various countries. Then, current systems and the enabling communication technologies are discussed. Finally, a market analysis for GA is included.

Food Service Management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rappole, C. L.; Louvier, S. A.

1985-01-01

A study to design a food service system using current technology to serve a small scale Space Station was conducted. The psychological, sociological and nutritional factors affecting feeding in microgravity conditions was investigated. The logistics of the food service system was defined.

Oversight of fare collection practices : summary report

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-11-01

This report document an oversight study of fare collection practices in the transit industry. The oversight was designed as an investigation of practices currently used in the transit industry to evaluate the impact of farebox revenue collection and ...