Combined protein construct and synthetic gene engineering for heterologous protein expression and crystallization using Gene Composer

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

Raymond, Amy; Lovell, Scott; Lorimer, Don

2009-12-01

With the goal of improving yield and success rates of heterologous protein production for structural studies we have developed the database and algorithm software package Gene Composer. This freely available electronic tool facilitates the information-rich design of protein constructs and their engineered synthetic gene sequences, as detailed in the accompanying manuscript. In this report, we compare heterologous protein expression levels from native sequences to that of codon engineered synthetic gene constructs designed by Gene Composer. A test set of proteins including a human kinase (P38{alpha}), viral polymerase (HCV NS5B), and bacterial structural protein (FtsZ) were expressed in both E. colimore » and a cell-free wheat germ translation system. We also compare the protein expression levels in E. coli for a set of 11 different proteins with greatly varied G:C content and codon bias. The results consistently demonstrate that protein yields from codon engineered Gene Composer designs are as good as or better than those achieved from the synonymous native genes. Moreover, structure guided N- and C-terminal deletion constructs designed with the aid of Gene Composer can lead to greater success in gene to structure work as exemplified by the X-ray crystallographic structure determination of FtsZ from Bacillus subtilis. These results validate the Gene Composer algorithms, and suggest that using a combination of synthetic gene and protein construct engineering tools can improve the economics of gene to structure research.« less

STI/DOE Solar decathlon- Final Report

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

Washington, Gregory

2016-04-14

Team Orange successfully designed and constructed a house driven by new design concepts and technical innovations that harmonize with Southern California’s lifestyle and respect its cultural heritage. The basic elements of our 2015 proposal can be summarized as follows: Increased emphasis on the passive solar design concept, with a visually stimulating design that enhances the Southern California lifestyle; Use of design and construction techniques to create a market-ready home for an efficient and affordable lifestyle; Integrated use of new technology to create a behavior-adaptive smart home; A zero net energy house complying with the Living Building philosophy; and compliance withmore » all DOE Solar Decathlon requirements.« less

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

Dorr, Kent A.; Ostrom, Michael J.; Freeman-Pollard, Jhivaun R.

CH2M Hill Plateau Remediation Company (CHPRC) designed, constructed, commissioned, and began operation of the largest groundwater pump and treatment facility in the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) nationwide complex. This one-of-a-kind groundwater pump and treatment facility, located at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation Site (Hanford Site) in Washington State, was built to an accelerated schedule with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds. There were many contractual, technical, configuration management, quality, safety, and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) challenges associated with the design, procurement, construction, and commissioning of this $95 million, 52,000 ft groundwater pump and treatment facility tomore » meet DOE’s mission objective of treating contaminated groundwater at the Hanford Site with a new facility by June 28, 2012. The project team’s successful integration of the project’s core values and green energy technology throughout design, procurement, construction, and start-up of this complex, first-of-its-kind Bio Process facility resulted in successful achievement of DOE’s mission objective, as well as attainment of LEED GOLD certification, which makes this Bio Process facility the first non-administrative building in the DOE Office of Environmental Management complex to earn such an award.« less

13 CFR 305.2 - Award requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...) Acquisition, design and engineering, construction, rehabilitation, alteration, expansion, or improvement of... opportunities for the successful establishment or expansion of industrial or commercial plants or facilities in...

13 CFR 305.2 - Award requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

...) Acquisition, design and engineering, construction, rehabilitation, alteration, expansion, or improvement of... opportunities for the successful establishment or expansion of industrial or commercial plants or facilities in...

13 CFR 305.2 - Award requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...) Acquisition, design and engineering, construction, rehabilitation, alteration, expansion, or improvement of... opportunities for the successful establishment or expansion of industrial or commercial plants or facilities in...

13 CFR 305.2 - Award requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

...) Acquisition, design and engineering, construction, rehabilitation, alteration, expansion, or improvement of... opportunities for the successful establishment or expansion of industrial or commercial plants or facilities in...

13 CFR 305.2 - Award requirements.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

...) Acquisition, design and engineering, construction, rehabilitation, alteration, expansion, or improvement of... opportunities for the successful establishment or expansion of industrial or commercial plants or facilities in...

Construct-a-Greenhouse. Science by Design Series.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lee, Felicia

This book is one of four books in the Science-by-Design Series created by TERC and funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF). This series presents directed instruction on how to successfully formulate and carry out product design. Students learn and apply concepts in science and technology to design and build a pair of insulated gloves, a…

Students' Geocognition of Deep Time, Conceptualized in an Informal Educational Setting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clary, Renee M.; Brzusek, Robert F.; Wandersee, James H.

2009-01-01

Students in a Landscape Architecture Design 1 course (N = 25) at a research university in the southern US developed design solutions implementing geologic time for an informal education site. Those students who employed abstract metaphors for their designs (n = 8) were more successful than students who proceeded with a linear design construct.…

Comparative Study On The Ethical Perceptions Of Contractors And Designers In The China Construction Industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Byung Gyoo; Long, Kaiwen; Zhang, Cheng; Li Hao, Jian

2017-12-01

Ethics is becoming one of the most important requirements for successful business in the 21st century. The construction industry cannot be exceptional from this trend. However construction ethics management requires different approaches from other industries, as the products of the industry are construction projects which are completely different from mass production. Contractors and designers are two major participants in construction projects. The roles and responsibilities of these two project stakeholders decisively influence all aspects of construction project. Practically ethical perceptions of contractors and designers are one of main aspects to be considered for the effective and efficient management of ethics for the construction industry. This research has investigated the ethical perceptions of contractors and designers in the China construction industry. A questionnaire survey which contains 15 ethical issues and 6 demographic factors has been conducted. 170 construction professionals from construction companies and consulting companies have been participated in this survey. These 15 ethical issues are ranked in terms of seriousness, frequency and importance for both contractors and designers as a single group to understand the overall perceptions in the industry. The analysis has also been conducted for contractors and designers respectively to make comparisons between them. The top three serious ethical issues in the industry are ‘Bribery and corruption’, ‘Failure to practice whistle-blowing’ and ‘Improper bidding practices’. Contractors and designers showed similar outcomes for the top five important ethical issues. But for the middle ranged ethical issues, they showed some differences. Further researches are required to identify the causes of the similarity and differences.

Balancing Curricular and Pedagogical Needs in Computational Construction Kits: Lessons from the DeltaTick Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wilkerson-Jerde, Michelle; Wagh, Aditi; Wilensky, Uri

2015-01-01

To successfully integrate simulation and computational methods into K-12 STEM education, learning environments should be designed to help educators maintain balance between (a) addressing curricular content and practices and (b) attending to student knowledge and interests. We describe DeltaTick, a graphical simulation construction interface for…

RECESSED AUTOMATIC SURFACE SKIMMERS FOR SWIMMING POOLS. NATIONAL SANITATION FOUNDATION STANDARD NUMBER 11.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Sanitation Foundation, Ann Arbor, MI.

THE NATIONAL SANITATION FOUNDATION STANDARD ON SWIMMING POOL EQUIPMENT CONCERNS ITSELF WITH THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICATION OF SURFACE SKIMMERS TO SWIMMING POOLS. THE MINIMUM DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS ESTABLISHED BY THIS STANDARD ARE SET FORTH TO PROVIDE A MEANS OF EVALUATING THE OVERALL CONSTRUCTION AND EFFECTIVENESS OF THE UNIT. ADDITIONAL…

Cost containment and KSC Shuttle facilities or cost containment and aerospace construction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Brown, J. A.

1985-01-01

This presentation has the objective to show examples of Cost Containment of Aerospace Construction at Kennedy Space Center (KSC), taking into account four major levels of Project Development of the Space Shuttle Facilities. The levels are related to conceptual criteria and site selection, the design of construction and ground support equipment, the construction of facilities and ground support equipment (GSE), and operation and maintenance. Examples of cost containment are discussed. The continued reduction of processing time from landing to launching represents a demonstration of the success of the cost containment methods. Attention is given to the factors which led to the selection of KSC, the use of Cost Engineering, the employment of the Construction Management Concept, and the use of Computer Aided Design/Drafting.

Knowledge, attitude and practices for design for safety: A study on civil & structural engineers.

PubMed

Goh, Yang Miang; Chua, Sijie

2016-08-01

Design for safety (DfS) (also known as prevention through design, safe design and Construction (Design and Management)) promotes early consideration of safety and health hazards during the design phase of a construction project. With early intervention, hazards can be more effectively eliminated or controlled leading to safer worksites and construction processes. DfS is practiced in many countries, including Australia, the UK, and Singapore. In Singapore, the Manpower Ministry enacted the DfS Regulations in July 2015, which will be enforced from August 2016 onwards. Due to the critical role of civil and structural (C&S) engineers during design and construction, the DfS knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of C&S engineers have significant impact on the successful implementation of DfS. Thus, this study aims to explore the DfS KAP of C&S engineers so as to guide further research in measuring and improving DfS KAP of designers. During the study, it was found that there is a lack of KAP studies in construction management. Therefore, this study also aims to provide useful lessons for future applications of the KAP framework in construction management research. A questionnaire was developed to assess the DfS KAP of C&S engineers. The responses provided by 43 C&S engineers were analyzed. In addition, interviews with experienced construction professionals were carried out to further understand perceptions of DfS and related issues. The results suggest that C&S engineers are supportive of DfS, but the level of DfS knowledge and practices need to be improved. More DfS guidelines and training should be made available to the engineers. To ensure that DfS can be implemented successfully, there is a need to study the contractual arrangements between clients and designers and the effectiveness of different implementation approaches for the DfS process. The questionnaire and findings in this study provided the foundation for a baseline survey with larger sample size, which is currently being planned. In contrast to earlier studies, the study showed that the responding C&S engineers were supportive of the DfS. The study showed that the key to improving the DfS KAP of C&S engineers is by improving clients' motivation for DfS. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

In silico design, construction and cloning of Trastuzumab humanized monoclonal antibody: A possible biosimilar for Herceptin

PubMed Central

Akbarzadeh-Sharbaf, Soudabeh; Yakhchali, Bagher; Minuchehr, Zarrin; Shokrgozar, Mohammad Ali; Zeinali, Sirous

2012-01-01

Background: There is a novel hypothesis in that antibodies may have specificity for two distinct antigens that have been named “dual specificity”. This hypothesis was evaluated for some defined therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) such as Trastuzumab, Pertuzumab, Bevacizumab, and Cetuximab. In silico design and construction of expression vectors for trastuzumab monoclonal antibody also in this work were performed. Materials and Methods: First, in bioinformatics studies the 3D structures of concerned mAbs were obtained from the Protein Data Bank (PDB). Three-dimensional structural alignments were performed with SIM and MUSTANG softwares. AutoDock4.2 software also was used for the docking analysis. Second, the suitable genes for trastuzumab heavy and light chains were designed, synthesized, and cloned in the prokaryotic vector. These fragments individually were PCR amplified and cloned into pcDNA™ 3.3-TOPO® and pOptiVEC™ TOPO® shuttle vectors, using standard methods. Results: First, many bioinformatics tools and softwares were applied but we did not meet any new dual specificity in the selected antibodies. In the following step, the suitable expression cascade for the heavy and light chains of Trastuzumab therapeutic mAb were designed and constructed. Gene cloning was successfully performed and created constructs were confirmed using gene mapping and sequencing. Conclusions: This study was based on a recently developed technology for mAb expression in mammalian cells. The obtained constructs could be successfully used for biosimilar recombinant mAb production in CHO DG44 dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) gene deficient cell line in the suspension culture medium. PMID:23210080

Keys to Success: School Facilities Primer, Questions & Answers 101.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brady, Jim

This publication provides answers to basic questions to help school board members more fully address the complexities of the planning, design, and construction process in order to maximize the goal of student success. The 101 questions and answers are in the areas of: facility planning; learning environment; information technology; safe schools;…

AP1000{sup R} licensing and deployment in the United States

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

Jordan, R. P.; Russ, P. A.; Filiak, P. P.

2012-07-01

In recent years, both domestic and foreign utilities have turned to the standardized Westinghouse AP1000 plant design in satisfying their near - and long-term - sustainable energy needs. As direct support to these actions, licensing the AP1000 design has played a significant role by providing one of the fundamental bases in clearing regulatory hurdles leading to the start of new plant construction. Within the U.S. alone, Westinghouse AP1000 licensing activities have reached unprecedented milestones with the approvals of both AP1000 Design Certification and Southern Company's combined construction permit and operating license (COL) application directly supporting the construction of two newmore » nuclear plants in Georgia. Further COL application approvals are immediately pending for an additional two AP1000 plants in South Carolina. And, across the U.S. nuclear industry spectrum, there are 10 other COL applications under regulatory review representing some 16 new plants at 10 sites. In total, these actions represent the first wave of new plant licensing under the regulatory approval process since 1978. Fundamental to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's AP1000 Design Certification is the formal recognition of the AP1000 passive safety design through regulatory acceptance rulemaking. Through recognition and deployment of the AP1000 Design Certification, the utility licensee / operator of this reactor design are now offered an opportunity to use a simplified 'one-step' combined license process, thereby managing substantial back-end construction schedule risk from regulatory and intervention delays. Application of this regulatory philosophy represents both acceptance and encouragement of standardized reactor designs like the AP1000. With the recent AP1000 Design Certification and utility COL acceptances, the fundamental licensing processes of this philosophy have successfully proven the attainment of significant milestones with the next stage licensing actions directed towards deployment. AP1000 Design Certification and COL deployment, and management of the plant construction in accordance with the conditions within these approvals, remain as significant site and corporate responsibilities. These licensing-construction integrated activities must now focus on identifying and resolving 'as-built' departures from the standardized design as assessed against the certified AP1000 technical and licensing basis. Within this paper, significant aspects of the AP1000 U.S. licensing will be discussed, including identifying systems and processes used in ensuring compliance while deploying the standardized design. Critical licensing steps, licensing deployment actions as plant construction progresses and defining the road forward to a successful completion of licensing actions will be addressed. (authors)« less

GENESUS: a two-step sequence design program for DNA nanostructure self-assembly.

PubMed

Tsutsumi, Takanobu; Asakawa, Takeshi; Kanegami, Akemi; Okada, Takao; Tahira, Tomoko; Hayashi, Kenshi

2014-01-01

DNA has been recognized as an ideal material for bottom-up construction of nanometer scale structures by self-assembly. The generation of sequences optimized for unique self-assembly (GENESUS) program reported here is a straightforward method for generating sets of strand sequences optimized for self-assembly of arbitrarily designed DNA nanostructures by a generate-candidates-and-choose-the-best strategy. A scalable procedure to prepare single-stranded DNA having arbitrary sequences is also presented. Strands for the assembly of various structures were designed and successfully constructed, validating both the program and the procedure.

Building the U.S. First Offshore Wind Farm-Applying EBM Approaches to Successfully Address Offshore Energy, Commercial Fisheries, and Recreational Boating interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lipsky, A.

2016-12-01

In August 2015 construction commenced on the Block Island Wind Farm, the first offshore wind energy project in the U.S. This pilot-scale offshore energy project, located 18 miles offshore of the Rhode Island mainland, was sited through a comprehensive ocean planning process. As the project progressed into design and construction, our team utilized potent ecosystem based management approaches to great advantage to address the human and resource interactions that existed in the project area. These practices have included designing and executing collaborative long-term monitoring ventures to fill key science gaps and reconcile fisheries concerns, establishing effective industry to industry engagement, and developing durable multi-sector agreements. This presentation will describe the specific EBM approaches used after the planning process was completed to bring the project to construction; highlighting where key aspects of the National Ocean Policy goals and principles have been successfully applied.

Building the U.S. First Offshore Wind Farm-Applying EBM Approaches to Successfully Address Offshore Energy, Commercial Fisheries, and Recreational Boating interactions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lipsky, A.

2016-02-01

In August 2015 construction commenced on the Block Island Wind Farm, the first offshore wind energy project in the U.S. This pilot-scale offshore energy project, located 18 miles offshore of the Rhode Island mainland, was sited through a comprehensive ocean planning process. As the project progressed into design and construction, our team utilized potent ecosystem based management approaches to great advantage to address the human and resource interactions that existed in the project area. These practices have included designing and executing collaborative long-term monitoring ventures to fill key science gaps and reconcile fisheries concerns, establishing effective industry to industry engagement, and developing durable multi-sector agreements. This presentation will describe the specific EBM approaches used after the planning process was completed to bring the project to construction; highlighting where key aspects of the National Ocean Policy goals and principles have been successfully applied.

Case study of restaurant successfully designed, constructed, and operated for excellent dining acoustics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bollard, Paul; Des Jardins, Stephen

2005-09-01

Prior to the construction of La Provence Restaurant in Roseville, California in 2004, the owner, Stephen Des Jardins, traveled with his cook, architect, and engineer to the Provence Region of France to study the cuisine, architecture, and acoustics of the local restaurants. This information was incorporated into the design, construction, and operation of his restaurant, with acoustical design assistance provided by the author, Paul Bollard. The result of the owner's painstaking attention to detail is a restaurant which has received very positive reviews for its architecture, quality of food, service, and acoustic ambience. This paper documents the measures included in the construction of the restaurant to ensure that the building acoustics enhance the dining experience, rather than detract from it. Photographs of acoustic treatments are included, as are reverberation time (RT60) test results and ambient noise level measurement results.

Designs for Collective Cognitive Responsibility in Knowledge-Building Communities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Zhang, Jianwei; Scardamalia, Marlene; Reeve, Richard; Messina, Richard

2009-01-01

This article reports a design experiment conducted over three successive school years, with the teacher's goal of having his Grade 4 students assume increasing levels of collective responsibility for advancing their knowledge of optics. Classroom practices conducive to sustained knowledge building were co-constructed by the teacher and students,…

Citizens Utilities Company's successful residential new construction market transformation program

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

Caulfield, T.O.; Shepherd, M.A.

1998-07-01

Citizens Utilities Company, Arizona Electric Division (CUC/AED) fielded a Residential New Construction Program (RNC) in the forth quarter of 1994 that had been designed from conception as a market transformation program. The CUC RNC Program encouraged builders to adopt energy efficient building practices for new homes by supplying builders estimates of energy savings, supplying inspections services to assist builders in applying energy efficient building practices while verifying compliance, and posting and promoting the home as energy efficient during the sales period. Measures generally required to qualify for the program were R-38 ceiling insulation, R-21 wall insulation, polysealing of all infiltrationmore » gaps during construction, well sealed air-conditioning ducts, and an air conditioner Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) of 11.0 or greater. In less than two years the program achieved over 17% market penetration without offering rebates to builders. This paper reviews the design of the program, including a discussion of the features felt to be primarily responsible for its success. It reviews the levels of penetration achieved, free-ridership, spillover, and market barriers encountered. Finally it proposes improvements to the program designed to carry it the next step toward a self-sustaining market transformation program.« less

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

Fitzpatrick, Stephen W.

This project involved a three-year program managed by BioMetics, Inc. (Waltham, MA) to demonstrate the commercial feasibility of Biofine thermochemical process technology for conversion of cellulose-containing wastes or renewable materials into levulinic acid, a versatile platform chemical. The program, commencing in October 1995, involved the design, procurement, construction and operation of a plant utilizing the Biofine process to convert 1 dry ton per day of paper sludge waste. The plant was successfully designed, constructed, and commissioned in 1997. It was operated for a period of one year on paper sludge from a variety of source paper mills to collect datamore » to verify the design for a commercial scale plant. Operational results were obtained for four different feedstock varieties. Stable, continuous operation was achieved for two of the feedstocks. Continuous operation of the plant at demonstration scale provided the opportunity for process optimization, development of operational protocols, operator training and identification of suitable materials of construction for scale up to commercial operation . Separated fiber from municipal waster was also successfully processed. The project team consisted of BioMetics Inc., Great Lakes Chemical Corporation (West Lafayette, IN), and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (Albany, NY).« less

Engineering a Functional Small RNA Negative Autoregulation Network with Model-Guided Design.

PubMed

Hu, Chelsea Y; Takahashi, Melissa K; Zhang, Yan; Lucks, Julius B

2018-05-22

RNA regulators are powerful components of the synthetic biology toolbox. Here, we expand the repertoire of synthetic gene networks built from these regulators by constructing a transcriptional negative autoregulation (NAR) network out of small RNAs (sRNAs). NAR network motifs are core motifs of natural genetic networks, and are known for reducing network response time and steady state signal. Here we use cell-free transcription-translation (TX-TL) reactions and a computational model to design and prototype sRNA NAR constructs. Using parameter sensitivity analysis, we design a simple set of experiments that allow us to accurately predict NAR function in TX-TL. We transfer successful network designs into Escherichia coli and show that our sRNA transcriptional network reduces both network response time and steady-state gene expression. This work broadens our ability to construct increasingly sophisticated RNA genetic networks with predictable function.

The orbiter mate/demate device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, A. J.; Binkley, W. H.

1985-01-01

The numerous components and systems of the space shuttle orbiter mate/demate device (MDD) are discussed. Special emphasis is given, mechanisms and mechanical systems to discuss in general their requirements, functions, and design; and, where applicable, to relate any unusual problems encountered during the initial concept studies, final design, and construction are discussed. The MDD and its electrical, machinery, and mechanical systems, including the main hoisting system, power operated access service platform, wind restrain and adjustment mechanism, etc., were successfully designed and constructed. The MDD was used routinely during the initial orbiter-747 approach and landing test and the more recent orbiter flight tests recovery and mate operations.

The Architecture of Peer Assessment: Do Academically Successful Students Make Good Teammates in Design Assignments?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tucker, Richard

2013-01-01

This paper considers the relationship between architecture and construction management students' overall academic abilities (as measured by Weighted Average Marks [WAMs]), their peer ratings for contributions to team design assignments (as measured by an online Self-and-Peer-Assessment [SAPA] tool), and their specific abilities as building…

The Community College Survey of Men: An Initial Validation of the Instrument's Non-Cognitive Outcomes Construct

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wood, J. \\Luke; Harris, Frank, III.

2013-01-01

The purpose of this manuscript is to discuss the utility of the Community College Survey of Men (CCSM[c]), an instrument designed to examine predictors of student success for men in community colleges. The authors highlight initial validation results from a recent pilot of the CCSM[c], with a focus on the non-cognitive outcomes construct employed…

Predicting Student Grade Point Average at a Community College from Scholastic Aptitude Tests and from Measures Representing Three Constructs in Vroom's Expectancy Theory Model of Motivation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Malloch, Douglas C.; Michael, William B.

1981-01-01

This study was designed to determine whether an unweighted linear combination of community college students' scores on standardized achievement tests and a measure of motivational constructs derived from Vroom's expectance theory model of motivation was predictive of academic success (grade point average earned during one quarter of an academic…

Spacecraft high-voltage power supply construction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sutton, J. F.; Stern, J. E.

1975-01-01

The design techniques, circuit components, fabrication techniques, and past experience used in successful high-voltage power supplies for spacecraft flight systems are described. A discussion of the basic physics of electrical discharges in gases is included and a design rationale for the prevention of electrical discharges is provided. Also included are typical examples of proven spacecraft high-voltage power supplies with typical specifications for design, fabrication, and testing.

Transitioning to High Performance Homes: Successes and Lessons Learned From Seven Builders

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

Widder, Sarah H.; Kora, Angela R.; Baechler, Michael C.

2013-03-01

As homebuyers are becoming increasingly concerned about rising energy costs and the impact of fossil fuels as a major source of greenhouse gases, the returning new home market is beginning to demand energy-efficient and comfortable high-performance homes. In response to this, some innovative builders are gaining market share because they are able to market their homes’ comfort, better indoor air quality, and aesthetics, in addition to energy efficiency. The success and marketability of these high-performance homes is creating a builder demand for house plans and information about how to design, build, and sell their own low-energy homes. To help makemore » these and other builders more successful in the transition to high-performance construction techniques, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) partnered with seven interested builders in the hot humid and mixed humid climates to provide technical and design assistance through two building science firms, Florida Home Energy and Resources Organization (FL HERO) and Calcs-Plus, and a designer that offers a line of stock plans designed specifically for energy efficiency, called Energy Smart Home Plans (ESHP). This report summarizes the findings of research on cost-effective high-performance whole-house solutions, focusing on real-world implementation and challenges and identifying effective solutions. The ensuing sections provide project background, profile each of the builders who participated in the program, and describe their houses’ construction characteristics, key challenges the builders encountered during the construction and transaction process); and present primary lessons learned to be applied to future projects. As a result of this technical assistance, 17 homes have been built featuring climate-appropriate efficient envelopes, ducts in conditioned space, and correctly sized and controlled heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems. In addition, most builders intend to integrate high-performance features into most or all their homes in the future. As these seven builders have demonstrated, affordable, high-performance homes are possible, but require attention to detail and flexibility in design to accommodate specific regional geographic or market-driven constraints that can increase cost. With better information regarding how energy-efficiency trade-offs or design choices affect overall home performance, builders can make informed decisions regarding home design and construction to minimize cost without sacrificing performance and energy savings.« less

1.5 MW RF Load for ITER

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

Ives, Robert Lawrence; Marsden, David; Collins, George

Calabazas Creek Research, Inc. developed a 1.5 MW RF load for the ITER fusion research facility currently under construction in France. This program leveraged technology developed in two previous SBIR programs that successfully developed high power RF loads for fusion research applications. This program specifically focused on modifications required by revised technical performance, materials, and assembly specification for ITER. This program implemented an innovative approach to actively distribute the RF power inside the load to avoid excessive heating or arcing associated with constructive interference. The new design implemented materials and assembly changes required to meet specifications. Critical components were builtmore » and successfully tested during the program.« less

A bootstrap lunar base: Preliminary design review 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1987-01-01

A bootstrap lunar base is the gateway to manned solar system exploration and requires new ideas and new designs on the cutting edge of technology. A preliminary design for a Bootstrap Lunar Base, the second provided by this contractor, is presented. An overview of the work completed is discussed as well as the technical, management, and cost strategies to complete the program requirements. The lunar base design stresses the transforming capabilities of its lander vehicles to aid in base construction. The design also emphasizes modularity and expandability in the base configuration to support the long-term goals of scientific research and profitable lunar resource exploitation. To successfully construct, develop, and inhabit a permanent lunar base, however, several technological advancements must first be realized. Some of these technological advancements are also discussed.

Stakeholder Perceptions of Risk in Construction.

PubMed

Zhao, Dong; McCoy, Andrew P; Kleiner, Brian M; Mills, Thomas H; Lingard, Helen

2016-02-01

Safety management in construction is an integral effort and its success requires inputs from all stakeholders across design and construction phases. Effective risk mitigation relies on the concordance of all stakeholders' risk perceptions. Many researchers have noticed the discordance of risk perceptions among critical stakeholders in safe construction work, however few have provided quantifiable evidence describing them. In an effort to fill this perception gap, this research performs an experiment that investigates stakeholder perceptions of risk in construction. Data analysis confirms the existence of such discordance, and indicates a trend in risk likelihood estimation. With risk perceptions from low to high, the stakeholders are architects, contractors/safety professionals, and engineers. Including prior studies, results also suggest that designers have improved their knowledge in building construction safety, but compared to builders they present more difficultly in reaching a consensus of perception. Findings of this research are intended to be used by risk management and decision makers to reassess stakeholders' varying judgments when considering injury prevention and hazard assessment.

Stakeholder Perceptions of Risk in Construction

PubMed Central

Zhao, Dong; McCoy, Andrew P.; Kleiner, Brian M.; Mills, Thomas H.; Lingard, Helen

2015-01-01

Safety management in construction is an integral effort and its success requires inputs from all stakeholders across design and construction phases. Effective risk mitigation relies on the concordance of all stakeholders’ risk perceptions. Many researchers have noticed the discordance of risk perceptions among critical stakeholders in safe construction work, however few have provided quantifiable evidence describing them. In an effort to fill this perception gap, this research performs an experiment that investigates stakeholder perceptions of risk in construction. Data analysis confirms the existence of such discordance, and indicates a trend in risk likelihood estimation. With risk perceptions from low to high, the stakeholders are architects, contractors/safety professionals, and engineers. Including prior studies, results also suggest that designers have improved their knowledge in building construction safety, but compared to builders they present more difficultly in reaching a consensus of perception. Findings of this research are intended to be used by risk management and decision makers to reassess stakeholders’ varying judgments when considering injury prevention and hazard assessment. PMID:26441481

[Construction-cost assessment of a program designed to promote physical and sports activities and prevent doping behaviors: PN-APSD - on 2002-2007].

PubMed

Bérard, A; Bréchat, P-H; Rymer, R; Londsdorfer, J

2009-02-01

According to the framework legislation promulgated as part of the reform of finance laws in France, quality is a mandatory feature of all governmental actions. In this context, this work was conducted to assess the construction cost of a national health program designed to promote physical and sports activities and prevent doping behaviors. This program was considered to have the characteristic features of a successful governmental health intervention. Four cost categories were evaluated: cost of the activity itself, transportation costs, communication costs and promotion costs. It was found that the program costs for 2002-2007 were 100,000 euro, with 15% of the costs in the communication category. Economic elements could be associated with factors of successful health service interventions in order to help decision makers responsible for the public interest and the consistency of public health actions.

Nanotechnology on a dime: building affordable research facilities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

DiBattista, Jeff; Clare, Donna; Lynch, David

2005-08-01

Designing buildings to house nanotechnology research presents a multitude of well-recognized challenges to architectural and engineering design teams, from environmental control to spatial arrangements to operational functionality. These technical challenges can be solved with relative ease on projects with large budgets: designers have the option of selecting leading-edge systems without undue regard for their expense. This is reflected in the construction cost of many nanotechnology research facilities that run well into the hundreds of millions of dollars. Smaller universities and other institutions need not be shut out of the nanotechnology research field simply because their construction budgets are tens of millions of dollars or less. The key to success for these less expensive projects lies with making good strategic decisions: identifying priorities for the facility in terms of what it will is--and will not--provide to the researchers. Making these strategic decisions puts bounds on the tactical, technical problems that the design team at large must address, allowing them to focus their efforts on the key areas for success. The process and challenges of this strategic decision-making process are examined, with emphasis placed on the types of decisions that must be made and the factors that must be considered when making them. Case study examples of projects undertaken at the University of Alberta are used to illustrate how strategic-level decision-making sets the stage for cutting-edge success on a modest budget.

Developing Engineering and Science Process Skills Using Design Software in an Elementary Education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fusco, Christopher

This paper examines the development of process skills through an engineering design approach to instruction in an elementary lesson that combines Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM). The study took place with 25 fifth graders in a public, suburban school district. Students worked in groups of five to design and construct model bridges based on research involving bridge building design software. The assessment was framed around individual student success as well as overall group processing skills. These skills were assessed through an engineering design packet rubric (student work), student surveys of learning gains, observation field notes, and pre- and post-assessment data. The results indicate that students can successfully utilize design software to inform constructions of model bridges, develop science process skills through problem based learning, and understand academic concepts through a design project. The final result of this study shows that design engineering is effective for developing cooperative learning skills. The study suggests that an engineering program offered as an elective or as part of the mandatory curriculum could be beneficial for developing students' critical thinking, inter- and intra-personal skills, along with an increased their understanding and awareness for scientific phenomena. In conclusion, combining a design approach to instruction with STEM can increase efficiency in these areas, generate meaningful learning, and influence student attitudes throughout their education.

Maryland State Department of Education School Food and Nutrition Service Design Manual.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maryland State Dept. of Education, Baltimore.

The purpose of this manual is to suggest strategies for identifying components that must be addressed to create and develop a successful food service and nutrition facility. It focuses on the process involved in creating such facilities, and it provides an overview of the planning phase, design and construction, and educational specifications.…

Geotechnical Centrifuge Experiments to Evaluate Piping in Foundation Soils

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-05-01

verifiable results. These tests were successful in design , construction, and execution of a realistic simulation of internal erosion leading to failure...possible “scale effects,” “modeling of models” testing protocol should be included in the test program. Also, the model design should minimize the scale...recommendations for improving the centrifuge tests include the following: • Design improved system for reservoir control to provide definitive and

Liability Issues of the Design Profession.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-01-01

the medical , legal, and insurance professions as well as the design profession. Since no profession has successfully shifted or I limited its risk, it...IIII I I I TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter I - Introduction I Chapter II - Design Ethics and Law 3 2.1 Ethics 3 2.2 Obligations to theClient 4 2.3...Conclusion 93 8.1 Ethics and the Law 94 8.2 Contracting for Design Services 95 8.3 The Design Phase 96 8.4 The Construction Phase 97 8.5 Resolution

Learning from real and tissue-engineered jellyfish: How to design and build a muscle-powered pump at intermediate Reynolds numbers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nawroth, Janna; Lee, Hyungsuk; Feinberg, Adam; Ripplinger, Crystal; McCain, Megan; Grosberg, Anna; Dabiri, John; Parker, Kit

2012-11-01

Tissue-engineered devices promise to advance medical implants, aquatic robots and experimental platforms for tissue-fluid interactions. The design, fabrication and systematic improvement of tissue constructs, however, is challenging because of the complex interactions of living cell, synthetic materials and their fluid environments. In a proof of concept study we have tissue-engineered a construct that mimics the swimming of a juvenile jellyfish, a simple model system for muscle-powered pumps at intermediate Reynolds numbers with quantifiable fluid dynamics and morphological properties. Optimally designed constructs achieved jellyfish-like swimming and generated biomimetic propulsion and feeding currents. Focusing on the fluid interactions, we discuss failed and successful designs and the lessons learned in the process. The main challenges were (1) to derive a body shape and deformation suitable for effective fluid transport under physiological fluid conditions, (2) to understand the mechanical properties of muscle and bell matrix and device a design capable of the desired deformation, (3) to establish adequate 3D kinematics of power and recovery stroke, and (4) to evaluate the performance of the design.

Design and installation of a next generation pilot scale fermentation system.

PubMed

Junker, B; Brix, T; Lester, M; Kardos, P; Adamca, J; Lynch, J; Schmitt, J; Salmon, P

2003-01-01

Four new fermenters were designed and constructed for use in secondary metabolite cultivations, bioconversions, and enzyme production. A new PC/PLC-based control system also was implemented using GE Fanuc PLCs, Genius I/O blocks, and Fix Dynamics SCADA software. These systems were incorporated into an industrial research fermentation pilot plant, designed and constructed in the early 1980s. Details of the design of these new fermenters and the new control system are described and compared with the existing installation for expected effectiveness. In addition, the reasoning behind selection of some of these features has been included. Key to the design was the goal of preserving similarity between the new and previously existing and successfully utilized fermenter hardware and software installations where feasible but implementing improvements where warranted and beneficial. Examples of enhancements include strategic use of Inconel as a material of construction to reduce corrosion, piping layout design for simplified hazardous energy isolation, on-line calculation and control of nutrient feed rates, and the use of field I/O modules located near the vessel to permit low-cost addition of new instrumentation.

The road to successful ITS software acquisition : executive summary

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1999-04-01

The Long Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) program was established to support a broad range of pavement performance analyses leading to improved engineering tools to design, construct, and manage pavements. Since 1989, LTPP has collected data on the p...

Understanding Collaboration Environments to Support Green Infrastructure Construction

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2011-12-01

Close collaboration among stakeholders has long been recognized as an important factor of a successful project. In todays climate of a heightened focus on sustainability, collaboration needs to be taken to a new level in the design and constructio...

Laser Micromachining Fabrication of THz Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DrouetdAubigny, C.; Walker, C.; Jones, B.; Groppi, C.; Papapolymerou, J.; Tavenier, C.

2001-01-01

Laser micromachining techniques can be used to fabricate high-quality waveguide structures and quasi-optical components to micrometer accuracies. Successful GHz designs can be directly scaled to THz frequencies. We expect this promising technology to allow the construction of the first fully integrated THz heterodyne imaging arrays. At the University of Arizona, construction of the first laser micromachining system designed for THz waveguide components fabrication has been completed. Once tested and characterized our system will be used to construct prototype THz lx4 focal plane mixer arrays, magic tees, AR coated silicon lenses, local oscillator source phase gratings, filters and more. Our system can micro-machine structures down to a few microns accuracy and up to 6 inches across in a short time. This paper discusses the design and performance of our micromachining system, and illustrates the type, range and performance of components this exciting new technology will make accessible to the THz community.

Construction and calibration of a low cost and fully automated vibrating sample magnetometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

El-Alaily, T. M.; El-Nimr, M. K.; Saafan, S. A.; Kamel, M. M.; Meaz, T. M.; Assar, S. T.

2015-07-01

A low cost vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) has been constructed by using an electromagnet and an audio loud speaker; where both are controlled by a data acquisition device. The constructed VSM records the magnetic hysteresis loop up to 8.3 KG at room temperature. The apparatus has been calibrated and tested by using magnetic hysteresis data of some ferrite samples measured by two scientifically calibrated magnetometers; model (Lake Shore 7410) and model (LDJ Electronics Inc. Troy, MI). Our VSM lab-built new design proved success and reliability.

2-d and 1-d Nanomaterials Construction through Peptide Computational Design and Solution Assembly

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pochan, Darrin

Self-assembly of molecules is an attractive materials construction strategy due to its simplicity in application. By considering peptidic molecules in the bottom-up materials self-assembly design process, one can take advantage of inherently biomolecular attributes; intramolecular folding events, secondary structure, and electrostatic/H-bonding/hydrophobic interactions to define hierarchical material structure and consequent properties. Importantly, while biomimicry has been a successful strategy for the design of new peptide molecules for intermolecular assembly, computational tools have been developed to de novo design peptide molecules required for construction of pre-determined, desired nanostructures and materials. A new system comprised of coiled coil bundle motifs theoretically designed to assemble into designed, one and two-dimensional nanostructures will be introduced. The strategy provides the opportunity for arbitrary nanostructure formation, i.e. structures not observed in nature, with peptide molecules. Importantly, the desired nanostructure was chosen first while the peptides needed for coiled coil formation and subsequent nanomaterial formation were determined computationally. Different interbundle, two-dimensional nanostructures are stabilized by differences in amino acid composition exposed on the exterior of the coiled coil bundles. Computation was able to determine molecules required for different interbundle symmetries within two-dimensional sheets stabilized by subtle differences in amino acid composition of the inherent peptides. Finally, polymers were also created through covalent interactions between bundles that allowed formation of architectures spanning flexible network forming chains to ultra-stiff polymers, all with the same building block peptides. The success of the computational design strategy is manifested in the nanomaterial results as characterized by electron microscopy, scattering methods, and biophysical techniques. Support from NSF DMREF program under awards DMR-1234161 and DMR-1235084.

A supermolecular building approach for the design and construction of metal-organic frameworks.

PubMed

Guillerm, Vincent; Kim, Dongwook; Eubank, Jarrod F; Luebke, Ryan; Liu, Xinfang; Adil, Karim; Lah, Myoung Soo; Eddaoudi, Mohamed

2014-08-21

In this review, we describe two recently implemented conceptual approaches facilitating the design and deliberate construction of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), namely supermolecular building block (SBB) and supermolecular building layer (SBL) approaches. Our main objective is to offer an appropriate means to assist/aid chemists and material designers alike to rationally construct desired functional MOF materials, made-to-order MOFs. We introduce the concept of net-coded building units (net-cBUs), where precise embedded geometrical information codes uniquely and matchlessly a selected net, as a compelling route for the rational design of MOFs. This concept is based on employing pre-selected 0-periodic metal–organic polyhedra or 2-periodic metal–organic layers, SBBs or SBLs respectively, as a pathway to access the requisite net-cBUs. In this review, inspired by our success with the original rht-MOF, we extrapolated our strategy to other known MOFs via their deconstruction into more elaborate building units (namely polyhedra or layers) to (i) elucidate the unique relationship between edge-transitive polyhedra or layers and minimal edge-transitive 3-periodic nets, and (ii) illustrate the potential of the SBB and SBL approaches as a rational pathway for the design and construction of 3-periodic MOFs. Using this design strategy, we have also identified several new hypothetical MOFs which are synthetically targetable.

Design, Construction, and Test of a 473 MHZ Four - Cavity Rfq.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kazimi, Reza

1992-01-01

An RFQ accelerator using the new four-rod cavity design has been fabricated and successfully tested at Texas Accelerator Center. The RFQ is designed to accelerate a 10 mA H^- ion beam from 30 keV to 500 keV with the operating frequency of 473 MHz. This new type of RFQ structure not only promises simplicity of design, construction, and operation, but also can be manufactured to operate at higher frequencies than previously achieved by other four-rod type RFQs. Combination of simplicity and compactness due to higher operating frequencies (400 to 500 MHz) makes the design desirable for injector of proton accelerators, medical linear accelerators, and variety of other applications. This dissertation presents the steps I went through in inventing, developing, and experimentally testing this new RFQ design. First an introduction to accelerators is given, and the basic accelerator physics terminologies are defined. The principles of operations of the RFQs are described, and the theory behind new type of RFQ structure is explained. Then the beam dynamics and cavity design of the RFQ are presented. Finally, the mechanical design and construction procedure are discussed, and experimental results of rf tests and actual H ^- beam test are given.

Research and Practice on New Technology for Architectural Green Environment in Cities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Zhang; hvung Cho, Jeung

2018-03-01

The importance of urban development has become a topic that has been discussed in all industries for a long time. How to make rational use of existing limited resources for redevelopment has become the primary issue in the future construction of a city. Designers have introduced green three-dimensional environmental design for a city into modern urban design. At present, Japan and South Korea focus on development of green three-dimensional environmental projects for cities, in which application of green three-dimensional building design is particularly prominent. This article learns from successful cases on urban three-dimensional environment design in Japan and Korea and makes profound discussion about how new city-model agriculture develops in China for the purpose of solving the problem of urban construction in China in the aspects of theory and Practice.

Time Overrun in Construction Project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Othman, I.; Shafiq, Nasir; Nuruddin, M. F.

2017-12-01

Timely completion is the key criteria to achieve success in any project despite the industry. Unfortunately construction industry in Malaysia has been labelled as industry facing poor performance leading to failure in achieving effective time management. As the consequence most of the project face huge amount of time overrun. This study assesses the causes of construction projects time overrun in Malaysia using structured questionnaire survey. Each respondent is asked to assign a one-to-five rating for each of the 18 time factors identified from literature review. Out of the 50 questionnaires sent out, 33 were received back representing 68% of the response rate. Data received from the questionnaires were analysed and processed using the descriptive statistics procedures. Findings from the study revealed that design and documentation issues, project management and contract administration, ineffective project planning and scheduling, contractor’s site management, financial resource management were the major factors that cause the time overrun. This study is hoped to help the practitioners to implement the mitigation measure at planning stage in order to achieve successful construction projects.

Clinical Consultation Systems: Designing for the Physician as Computer User

PubMed Central

Shortliffe, Edward H.

1981-01-01

The barriers to successful implementation of consultation systems for physicians have been frequently discussed. Our research has been directed at the development of computer techniques that will heighten the acceptance of high performance decision making tools. We discuss two current projects at Stanford Medical School that address both practical and theoretical issues in the design and construction of clinically useful systems.

Identifying critical success factors (CSFs) of implementing building information modeling (BIM) in Malaysian construction industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yaakob, Mazri; Ali, Wan Nur Athirah Wan; Radzuan, Kamaruddin

2016-08-01

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is defined as existing from the earliest concept to demolition and it involves creating and using an intelligent 3D model to inform and communicate project decisions. This research aims to identify the critical success factors (CSFs) of BIM implementation in Malaysian construction industry. A literature review was done to explore previous BIM studies on definitions and history of BIM, construction issues, application of BIM in construction projects as well as benefits of BIM. A series of interviews with multidisciplinary Malaysian construction experts will be conducted purposely for data collection process guided by the research design and methodology approach of this study. The analysis of qualitative data from the process will be combined with criteria identified in the literature review in order to identify the CSFs. Finally, the CSFs of BIM implementation will be validated by further Malaysian industrialists during a workshop. The validated CSFs can be used as a term of reference for both Malaysian practitioners and academics towards measuring BIM effectiveness level in their organizations.

Terminal sequence importance of de novo proteins from binary-patterned library: stable artificial proteins with 11- or 12-amino acid alphabet.

PubMed

Okura, Hiromichi; Takahashi, Tsuyoshi; Mihara, Hisakazu

2012-06-01

Successful approaches of de novo protein design suggest a great potential to create novel structural folds and to understand natural rules of protein folding. For these purposes, smaller and simpler de novo proteins have been developed. Here, we constructed smaller proteins by removing the terminal sequences from stable de novo vTAJ proteins and compared stabilities between mutant and original proteins. vTAJ proteins were screened from an α3β3 binary-patterned library which was designed with polar/ nonpolar periodicities of α-helix and β-sheet. vTAJ proteins have the additional terminal sequences due to the method of constructing the genetically repeated library sequences. By removing the parts of the sequences, we successfully obtained the stable smaller de novo protein mutants with fewer amino acid alphabets than the originals. However, these mutants showed the differences on ANS binding properties and stabilities against denaturant and pH change. The terminal sequences, which were designed just as flexible linkers not as secondary structure units, sufficiently affected these physicochemical details. This study showed implications for adjusting protein stabilities by designing N- and C-terminal sequences.

IVHS Denver Metro Area, Master Plan, Appendix A, Project Descriptions

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1994-02-01

THIS ACTIVITY INVOLVES THE CONCEPTUAL DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF A TRAFFIC OPERATIONS CENTER (TOC) FOR THE DENVER AREA. : ESTABLISHING A TOC IS CENTRAL TO THE SUCCESS OF IVHS IN THE DENVER AREA.ITS IMPORTANCE WILL CONTINUE BEYOND T...

Evaluation of design and construction issues of thin HMA overlays.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2015-04-01

While the overall implementation of thin HMA overlays in Texas has been successful, some issues need to be addressed: : appropriate blending of SAC A and SAC B aggregate to ensure adequate skid resistance; best practices to achieve adequate bonding :...

An ANSERLIN array for mobile satellite applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Colomb, F. Y.; Kunkee, D. B.; Mayes, P. E.; Smith, D. W.; Jamnejad, V.

1990-01-01

Design, analysis, construction, and test of linear arrays of ANSERLIN (annular sector, radiating line) elements are reported and discussed. Due to feeding simplicity and easy construction as well as good CP performance, a planar array composed of a number of such linear arrays each producing a shaped beam tilted in elevation, is a good candidate as a vehicle-mounted mechanically steered antenna for mobile satellite applications. A single level construction technique was developed that makes this type of array very cost competitive with other low-profile arrays. An asymmetric 19.5 inch long four-element array was fabricated and tested with reasonable performance. A smaller five-element symmetric array (16 inch long) was also designed and tested capable of operating in either sense of circular polarization. Efforts were made to successfully reduce this effect.

On the feasibility of a transient dynamic design analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cunniff, Patrick F.; Pohland, Robert D.

1993-05-01

The Dynamic Design Analysis Method has been used for the past 30 years as part of the Navy's efforts to shock-harden heavy shipboard equipment. This method which has been validated several times employs normal mode theory and design shock values. This report examines the degree of success that may be achieved by using simple equipment-vehicle models that produce time history responses which are equivalent to the responses that would be achieved using spectral design values employed by the Dynamic Design Analysis Method. These transient models are constructed by attaching the equipment's modal oscillators to the vehicle which is composed of rigid masses and elastic springs. Two methods have been developed for constructing these transient models. Each method generates the parameters of the vehicles so as to approximate the required damaging effects, such that the transient model is excited by an idealized impulse applied to the vehicle mass to which the equipment modal oscillators are attached. The first method called the Direct Modeling Method, is limited to equipment with at most three-degrees of freedom and the vehicle consists of a single lumped mass and spring. The Optimization Modeling Method, which is based on the simplex method for optimization, has been used successfully with a variety of vehicle models and equipment sizes.

Conoco's new approach to drill site construction in difficult, remote, swamp and jungle terrain Irian Jaya, Indonesia

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

Roodriguez, F.H.

1984-02-01

In October 1982, Conoco Irian Jaya as operator: and partners: Pertamina, Inpex Bintuni Limited, and Moeco Irian Jaya Company, mobilized construction equipment from Singapore to the KBS ''A'' contract area in Irian Jaya, Indonesia for the purpose of constructing a base camp and drill three exploratory sites. What made this construction effort different from others previously used in Irian Jaya; was that it incorporated several new and unique features, namely: a turnkey approach to construction; that is Conoco providing complete set of specifications and conditions with contractor assuming risks for a lump sum payment; special equipment designed by contractor formore » Irian Jaya operations; an incentive to co pensate or penalize contractor for helicopter hours flown below or above a predetermined number; structural steel pile platform designs for two swamp locations (Ayot and Aum), as opposed to the more conventional corduroy timber log-plank arrangement; and drilling rig pads designed for specific heli-rig with limited extra space. All work was successfully completed within the time frame stipulated in the contract, that is five months from the time the contractor was notified to begin mobilization of equipment, materials and personnel.« less

The development and manufacture of wood composite wind turbine rotors

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zuteck, M. D.

1982-01-01

The physical properties, operational experience, and construction methods of the wood/epoxy composite MOD 0A wind turbine blades are considered. Blades of this type have accumulated over 10,000 hours of successful operation at the Kahuku, Hawaii and Block Island, Rhode Island test sites. That body of experience is summarized and related to the structural concepts and design drivers which motivated the original design and choice of interior layout. Actual manufacturing experience and associated low first unit costs for these blades, as well as projections for high production rates, are presented. Application of these construction techniques to a wide range of other blade sizes is also considered.

Cassini's Maneuver Automation Software (MAS) Process: How to Successfully Command 200 Navigation Maneuvers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yang, Genevie Velarde; Mohr, David; Kirby, Charles E.

2008-01-01

To keep Cassini on its complex trajectory, more than 200 orbit trim maneuvers (OTMs) have been planned from July 2004 to July 2010. With only a few days between many of these OTMs, the operations process of planning and executing the necessary commands had to be automated. The resulting Maneuver Automation Software (MAS) process minimizes the workforce required for, and maximizes the efficiency of, the maneuver design and uplink activities. The MAS process is a well-organized and logically constructed interface between Cassini's Navigation (NAV), Spacecraft Operations (SCO), and Ground Software teams. Upon delivery of an orbit determination (OD) from NAV, the MAS process can generate a maneuver design and all related uplink and verification products within 30 minutes. To date, all 112 OTMs executed by the Cassini spacecraft have been successful. MAS was even used to successfully design and execute a maneuver while the spacecraft was in safe mode.

[Construction of EZH2 Knockout Animal Model by CRISPR/Cas9 Technology].

PubMed

Meng, Fanrong; Zhao, Dan; Zhou, Qinghua; Liu, Zhe

2018-05-20

It has been proven that CRISPR/Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR-associated 9) system was the modern gene-editing technology through the constitutive expression of nucleases Cas9 in the mammalian, which binds to the specific site in the genome mediated by single-guide RNA (sgRNA) at desired genomic loci. The aim of this study is that the animal model of EZH2 gene knockout was constructed using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. In this study, we designed two single-guide RNAs targeting the Exon3 and Exon4 of EZH2 gene. Then, their gene-targeting efficiency were detected by SURVEYOR assay. The lentivirus was perfused into the lungs of mice by using a bronchial tube and detected by immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR. The experimental results of NIH-3T3 cells verify that the designed sgEZH2 can efficiently effect the cleavage of target DNA by Cas9 in vitro. The immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR results showed that the EZH2 expression in experimental group was significantly decreased in the mouse lung tissue. The study successfully designed two sgRNA which can play a knock-out EZH2 function. An EZH2 knockout animal model was successfully constructed by CRISPR/Cas9 system, and it will be an effective animal model for studying the functions and mechanisms of EZH2.

Towards the design of 3D multiscale instructive tissue engineering constructs: Current approaches and trends.

PubMed

Oliveira, Sara M; Reis, Rui L; Mano, João F

2015-11-01

The design of 3D constructs with adequate properties to instruct and guide cells both in vitro and in vivo is one of the major focuses of tissue engineering. Successful tissue regeneration depends on the favorable crosstalk between the supporting structure, the cells and the host tissue so that a balanced matrix production and degradation are achieved. Herein, the major occurring events and players in normal and regenerative tissue are overviewed. These have been inspiring the selection or synthesis of instructive cues to include into the 3D constructs. We further highlight the importance of a multiscale perception of the range of features that can be included on the biomimetic structures. Lastly, we focus on the current and developing tissue-engineering approaches for the preparation of such 3D constructs: top-down, bottom-up and integrative. Bottom-up and integrative approaches present a higher potential for the design of tissue engineering devices with multiscale features and higher biochemical control than top-down strategies, and are the main focus of this review. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Constructing a 4-TESLA Large Thin Solenoid at the Limit of what can BE Safely Operated

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hervé, A.

The 4-tesla, 6 m free bore CMS solenoid has been successfully tested, operated and mapped at CERN during the autumn of 2006 in a surface hall and fully recommissioned in the underground experimental area in the autumn of 2008. The conceptual design started in 1990, the R&D studies in 1993, and the construction was approved in 1997. At the time the main parameters of this project were considered beyond what was thought possible as, in particular, the total stored magnetic energy reaches 2.6 GJ for a specific magnetic energy density exceeding 11 kJ/kg of cold mass. During this period, the international design and construction team had to make several important technical choices, particularly mechanical ones, to maximize the chances of reaching the nominal induction of 4 T. These design choices are explained and critically reviewed in the light of what is presently known to determine if better solutions would be possible today for constructing a new large high-field thin solenoid for a future detector magnet.

Overview of the IFMIF/EVEDA project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Knaster, J.; Garin, P.; Matsumoto, H.; Okumura, Y.; Sugimoto, M.; Arbeiter, F.; Cara, P.; Chel, S.; Facco, A.; Favuzza, P.; Furukawa, T.; Heidinger, R.; Ibarra, A.; Kanemura, T.; Kasugai, A.; Kondo, H.; Massaut, V.; Molla, J.; Micciche, G.; O'hira, S.; Sakamoto, K.; Yokomine, T.; Wakai, E.; the IFMIF/EVEDA Integrated Project Team

2017-10-01

IFMIF, the International Fusion Materials Irradiation Facility, is presently in its engineering validation and engineering design activities (EVEDA) phase under the Broader Approach Agreement. The engineering design activity (EDA) phase was successfully accomplished within the allocated time. The engineering validation activity (EVA) phase has focused on validating the Accelerator Facility (AF), the Target Facility and the Test Facility (TF) by constructing prototypes. The ELTL at JAEAc, Oarai successfully demonstrated the long-term stability of a Li flow under the IFMIF’s nominal operational conditions keeping the specified free-surface fluctuations below  ±1 mm in a continuous manner for 25 d. A full-scale prototype of the high flux test module (HFTM) was successfully tested in the HELOKA loop (KIT, Karlsruhe), where it was demonstrated that the irradiation temperature can be set individually and kept uniform. LIPAc, designed and constructed in European labs under the coordination of F4E, presently under installation and commissioning in the Rokkasho Fusion Institute, aims at validating the concept of IFMIF accelerators with a D+ beam of 125 mA continuous wave (CW) and 9 MeV. The commissioning phases of the H+/D+ beams at 100 keV are progressing and should be concluded in 2017; in turn, the commissioning of the 5 MeV beam is due to start during 2017. The D+ beam through the superconducting cavities is expected to be achieved within the Broader Approach Agreement time frame with the superconducting cryomodule being assembled in Rokkasho. The realisation of a fusion-relevant neutron source is a necessary step for the successful development of fusion. The ongoing success of the IFMIF/EVEDA involves ruling out concerns about potential technical showstoppers which were raised in the past. Thus, a situation has emerged where soon steps towards constructing a Li(d,xn) fusion-relevant neutron source could be taken, which is also justified in the light of costs which are marginal to those of a fusion plant. In Memoriam Yoshikazu Okumura who passed away on 6 March 2017.

Anterior implant-supported overdentures.

PubMed

Ben-Ur, Z; Gorfil, C; Shifman, A

1996-09-01

Retention of complete mandibular dentures can be successfully achieved by means of an implant-retained or natural tooth-retained bar and clip system in the anterior segment of the mandible. The same design principles hold true for both methods of anchoring the retentive bar. These retentive elements must be constructed to allow some freedom of movement around a fulcrum line designed to be perpendicular to the sagittal plane.

The networked student: A design-based research case study of student constructed personal learning environments in a middle school science course

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Drexler, Wendy

This design-based research case study applied a networked learning approach to a seventh grade science class at a public school in the southeastern United States. Students adapted emerging Web applications to construct personal learning environments for in-depth scientific inquiry of poisonous and venomous life forms. The personal learning environments constructed used Application Programming Interface (API) widgets to access, organize, and synthesize content from a number of educational Internet resources and social network connections. This study examined the nature of personal learning environments; the processes students go through during construction, and patterns that emerged. The project was documented from both an instructional and student-design perspective. Findings revealed that students applied the processes of: practicing digital responsibility; practicing digital literacy; organizing content; collaborating and socializing; and synthesizing and creating. These processes informed a model of the networked student that will serve as a framework for future instructional designs. A networked learning approach that incorporates these processes into future designs has implications for student learning, teacher roles, professional development, administrative policies, and delivery. This work is significant in that it shifts the focus from technology innovations based on tools to student empowerment based on the processes required to support learning. It affirms the need for greater attention to digital literacy and responsibility in K12 schools as well as consideration for those skills students will need to achieve success in the 21st century. The design-based research case study provides a set of design principles for teachers to follow when facilitating student construction of personal learning environments.

Dimming LEDs with Phase-Cut Dimmers: The Specifier's Process for Maximizing Success

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

Miller, Naomi J.; Poplawski, Michael E.

2013-10-01

This report reviews how phase-cut dimmers work, how LEDs differ from the incandescent lamps that the dimmers were historically designed to control, and how these differences can lead to complications when trying to dim LEDs. Compatibility between a specific LED source and a specific phase-cut dimmer is often unknown and difficult to assess, and ensuring compatibility adds complexity to the design, specification, bidding, and construction observation phases for new buildings and major remodel projects. To maximize project success, this report provides both general guidance and step-by-step procedures for designing phase-controlled LED dimming on both new and existing projects, as wellmore » as real-world examples of how to use those procedures.« less

Design of a post-tensioned prestressed concrete pavement, construction guidelines, and monitoring plan.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-08-01

Prestressed Concrete Pavement (PCP) has been around for almost 60 years. Its application started in Europe in : the 1940s, and since then it has been applied with fair success in other countries, including the United States. : Domestic application of...

Thermal enclosures for electronically scanned pressure modules operating in cryogenic environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mitchell, Michael; Sealey, Bradley S.

1989-01-01

Specific guidelines to design, construct, and test ESP thermal enclosures for applications at cryogenic temperatures are given. The enclosures maintain the ESP modules at a constant temperature (10 C plus or minus 1 C) to minimize thermal zero and sensitivity shifts, to minimize the frequency of expensive on-line calibrations, and to avoid adverse effects on tunnel and model boundary layers. The enclosures are constructed of a rigid closed-cell foam and are capable of withstanding the stagnation pressures to 932kPa (135 psia) without reduction in thermal insulation properties. This construction procedure has been used to construct several thermal packages which have been successfully used in National Transonic Facility.

The National Ignition Facility and Industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Harri, J. G.; Paisner, J. A.; Lowdermilk, W. H.; Boyes, J. D.; Kumpan, S. A.; Sorem, M. S.

1994-09-01

The mission of the National Ignition Facility is to achieve ignition and gain in inertial confinement fusion targets in the laboratory. The facility will be used for defense applications such as weapons physics and weapons effects testing, and for civilian applications such as fusion energy development and fundamental studies of matter at high temperatures and densities. The National Ignition Facility construction project will require the best of our construction industries and its success will depend on the best products offered by hundreds of the nation's high technology companies. Three-fourths of the construction costs will be invested in industry. This article reviews the design, cost and schedule, and required industrial involvement associated with the construction project.

Aerodynamic design of the Cal Poly Da Vinci Human-Powered Helicopter

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Larwood, Scott; Saiki, Neal

1990-01-01

This paper will discuss the methodology used in designing the rotor and drive propellers for the third generation Cal Poly Da Vinci Human-Powered Helicopter. The rotor was designed using a lifting surface, uniform inflow hover analysis code and the propeller was designed using a minimum induced-loss method. Construction, geometry, and operating considerations are discussed as they impact the designs. Optimization of the design performance is also explained. The propellers were tested in a wind tunnel and results are compared with theoretical data. Successful flight tests of the Da Vinci III are discussed.

Around Marshall

NASA Image and Video Library

1972-01-01

This is a cutaway illustration of the Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS) at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC ). The MSFC NBS provided an excellent environment for testing hardware to examine how it would operate in space and for evaluating techniques for space construction and spacecraft servicing. Here, engineers, designers, and astronauts performed various tests to develop basic concepts, preliminary designs, final designs, and crew procedures. The NBS was constructed of welded steel with polyester-resin coating. The water tank was 75-feet (22.9- meters) in diameter, 40-feet (12.2-meters) deep, and held 1.32 million gallons of water. Since it opened for operation in 1968, the NBS had supported a number of successful space missions, such as the Skylab, Solar Maximum Mission Satellite, Marned Maneuvering Unit, Experimental Assembly of Structures in Extravehicular Activity/Assembly Concept for Construction of Erectable Space Structures (EASE/ACCESS), the Hubble Space Telescope, and the Space Station. The function of the MSFC NBS was moved to the larger simulator at the Johnson Space Center and is no longer operational.

Surrogate-based Analysis and Optimization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Queipo, Nestor V.; Haftka, Raphael T.; Shyy, Wei; Goel, Tushar; Vaidyanathan, Raj; Tucker, P. Kevin

2005-01-01

A major challenge to the successful full-scale development of modem aerospace systems is to address competing objectives such as improved performance, reduced costs, and enhanced safety. Accurate, high-fidelity models are typically time consuming and computationally expensive. Furthermore, informed decisions should be made with an understanding of the impact (global sensitivity) of the design variables on the different objectives. In this context, the so-called surrogate-based approach for analysis and optimization can play a very valuable role. The surrogates are constructed using data drawn from high-fidelity models, and provide fast approximations of the objectives and constraints at new design points, thereby making sensitivity and optimization studies feasible. This paper provides a comprehensive discussion of the fundamental issues that arise in surrogate-based analysis and optimization (SBAO), highlighting concepts, methods, techniques, as well as practical implications. The issues addressed include the selection of the loss function and regularization criteria for constructing the surrogates, design of experiments, surrogate selection and construction, sensitivity analysis, convergence, and optimization. The multi-objective optimal design of a liquid rocket injector is presented to highlight the state of the art and to help guide future efforts.

Development and Evaluation of a Measure of Library Automation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pungitore, Verna L.

1986-01-01

Construct validity and reliability estimates indicate that study designed to measure utilization of automation in public and academic libraries was successful in tentatively identifying and measuring three subdimensions of level of automation: quality of hardware, method of software development, and number of automation specialists. Questionnaire…

Berkeley Bravado: Rochdale Village, University of California, Berkeley

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Woodbridge, Sally

1975-01-01

Rochdale Village is a successful example of active student participation in the design and construction of student housing. The apartment complex reflects students' desire for a village of lowrise, wood-shingled buildings, while meeting the University of California's density requirement of 250 units per acre. (JG)

0-6742 : evaluation of design and construction issues of thin HMA overlays.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-08-01

Thin hot-mix asphalt (HMA) overlays, placed : between 1.25 to 0.5 inches, have quickly become : a go-to maintenance treatment in Texas. While : implementation around the state is proving : successful, a few issues needed to be addressed: : 1. The una...

Perfectionism, Procrastination, and Psychological Distress

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rice, Kenneth G.; Richardson, Clarissa M. E.; Clark, Dustin

2012-01-01

Using a cross-panel design and data from 2 successive cohorts of college students ( N = 357), we examined the stability of maladaptive perfectionism, procrastination, and psychological distress across 3 time points within a college semester. Each construct was substantially stable over time, with procrastination being especially stable. We also…

Pulse design for multilevel systems by utilizing Lie transforms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kang, Yi-Hao; Chen, Ye-Hong; Shi, Zhi-Cheng; Huang, Bi-Hua; Song, Jie; Xia, Yan

2018-03-01

We put forward a scheme to design pulses to manipulate multilevel systems with Lie transforms. A formula to reverse construct a control Hamiltonian is given and is applied in pulse design in the three- and four-level systems as examples. To demonstrate the validity of the scheme, we perform numerical simulations, which show the population transfers for cascaded three-level and N -type four-level Rydberg atoms can be completed successfully with high fidelities. Therefore, the scheme may benefit quantum information tasks based on multilevel systems.

Encoded Library Synthesis Using Chemical Ligation and the Discovery of sEH Inhibitors from a 334-Million Member Library

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Litovchick, Alexander; Dumelin, Christoph E.; Habeshian, Sevan; Gikunju, Diana; Guié, Marie-Aude; Centrella, Paolo; Zhang, Ying; Sigel, Eric A.; Cuozzo, John W.; Keefe, Anthony D.; Clark, Matthew A.

2015-06-01

A chemical ligation method for construction of DNA-encoded small-molecule libraries has been developed. Taking advantage of the ability of the Klenow fragment of DNA polymerase to accept templates with triazole linkages in place of phosphodiesters, we have designed a strategy for chemically ligating oligonucleotide tags using cycloaddition chemistry. We have utilized this strategy in the construction and selection of a small molecule library, and successfully identified inhibitors of the enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase.

Construction and use of a Cupriavidus necator H16 soluble hydrogenase promoter (PSH) fusion to gfp (green fluorescent protein)

PubMed Central

Jugder, Bat-Erdene; Welch, Jeffrey; Braidy, Nady

2016-01-01

Hydrogenases are metalloenzymes that reversibly catalyse the oxidation or production of molecular hydrogen (H2). Amongst a number of promising candidates for application in the oxidation of H2 is a soluble [Ni–Fe] uptake hydrogenase (SH) produced by Cupriavidus necator H16. In the present study, molecular characterisation of the SH operon, responsible for functional SH synthesis, was investigated by developing a green fluorescent protein (GFP) reporter system to characterise PSH promoter activity using several gene cloning approaches. A PSH promoter-gfp fusion was successfully constructed and inducible GFP expression driven by the PSH promoter under de-repressing conditions in heterotrophic growth media was demonstrated in the recombinant C. necator H16 cells. Here we report the first successful fluorescent reporter system to study PSH promoter activity in C. necator H16. The fusion construct allowed for the design of a simple screening assay to evaluate PSH activity. Furthermore, the constructed reporter system can serve as a model to develop a rapid fluorescent based reporter for subsequent small-scale process optimisation experiments for SH expression. PMID:27547572

Negating Tissue Contracture Improves Volume Maintenance and Longevity of In Vivo Engineered Tissues.

PubMed

Lytle, Ian F; Kozlow, Jeffrey H; Zhang, Wen X; Buffington, Deborah A; Humes, H David; Brown, David L

2015-10-01

Engineering large, complex tissues in vivo requires robust vascularization to optimize survival, growth, and function. Previously, the authors used a "chamber" model that promotes intense angiogenesis in vivo as a platform for functional three-dimensional muscle and renal engineering. A silicone membrane used to define the structure and to contain the constructs is successful in the short term. However, over time, generated tissues contract and decrease in size in a manner similar to capsular contracture seen around many commonly used surgical implants. The authors hypothesized that modification of the chamber structure or internal surface would promote tissue adherence and maintain construct volume. Three chamber configurations were tested against volume maintenance. Previously studied, smooth silicone surfaces were compared to chambers modified for improved tissue adherence, with multiple transmembrane perforations or lined with a commercially available textured surface. Tissues were allowed to mature long term in a rat model, before analysis. On explantation, average tissue masses were 49, 102, and 122 mg; average volumes were 74, 158 and 176 μl; and average cross-sectional areas were 1.6, 6.7, and 8.7 mm for the smooth, perforated, and textured groups, respectively. Both perforated and textured designs demonstrated significantly greater measures than the smooth-surfaced constructs in all respects. By modifying the design of chambers supporting vascularized, three-dimensional, in vivo tissue engineering constructs, generated tissue mass, volume, and area can be maintained over a long time course. Successful progress in the scale-up of construct size should follow, leading to improved potential for development of increasingly complex engineered tissues.

First steps towards a constructal Microbial Fuel Cell.

PubMed

Lepage, Guillaume; Perrier, Gérard; Ramousse, Julien; Merlin, Gérard

2014-06-01

In order to reach real operating conditions with consequent organic charge flow, a multi-channel reactor for Microbial Fuel Cells is designed. The feed-through double chamber reactor is a two-dimensional system with four parallel channels and Reticulated Vitreous Carbon as electrodes. Based on thermodynamical calculations, the constructal-inspired distributor is optimized with the aim to reduce entropy generation along the distributing path. In the case of negligible singular pressure drops, the Hess-Murray law links the lengths and the hydraulic diameters of the successive reducing ducts leading to one given working channel. The determination of generated entropy in the channels of our constructal MFC is based on the global hydraulic resistance caused by both regular and singular pressure drops. Polarization, power and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy show the robustness and the efficiency of the cell, and therefore the potential of the constructal approach. Routes towards improvements are suggested in terms of design evolutions. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Raman fiberoptic probe for monitoring human tissue engineered oral mucosa constructs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khmaladze, Alexander; Kuo, Shiuhyang; Okagbare, Paul; Marcelo, Cynthia L.; Feinberg, Stephen E.; Morris, Michael D.

2013-02-01

In oral and maxillofacial surgery, there is a need for tissue engineered constructs for dental implants, reconstructions due to trauma, oral cancer or congenital defects. A non-invasive quality monitoring of the fabrication of tissue engineered constructs during their production and implantation is a required component of any successful tissue engineering technique. We demonstrate the design and application of a Raman spectroscopic probe for rapid and noninvasive monitoring of Ex Vivo Produced Oral Mucosa Equivalent constructs (EVPOMEs). We conducted in vivo studies to identify Raman spectroscopic failure indicators for EVPOMEs (already developed in vitro), and found that Raman spectra of EVPOMEs exposed to thermal stress showed correlation of the band height ratio of CH2 deformation to phenylalanine ring breathing modes, providing a Raman metric to distinguish between viable and nonviable constructs. This is the first step towards the ultimate goal to design a stand-alone system, which will be usable in a clinical setting, as the data processing and analysis will be performed with minimal user intervention, based on already established and tested Raman spectroscopic indicators for EVPOMEs.

The influence of client brief and change order in construction project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mahat, N. A. A.; Adnan, H.

2018-02-01

Construction briefing is a statement of needs about intentions and projects objectives. Briefing process is the preliminary stage in the design process and successful briefing can achieve project delivery right on target time, cost and quality of project confidently. Although there are many efforts to approach client’s requirement and needs for a project, it is still not collected adequately to make proper solutions in design. Thus, these may lead the client to include change orders during the construction phase. This paper is concerned toward the influence of client’s briefing of a construction project that impact on the change order on the construction works. The research objective is to identify the influence of client’s brief on change orders, therefore, the aims of the research is to reduce change orders in project delivery. This research adopted both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods which are content analysis and semi structure interview. The findings highlight factors contributing to change orders and the essential attributes of clients during the briefing stage that may help minimise them.

Optimizing the Construction of the A1 Collaboration Neutron Detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chinn, Edward; A1 Collaboration

2016-09-01

We report on the design and construction of a frame designed to optimize both the time efficiency and construction quality of the large scintillator elements These elements will be assembled to form a neutron detector for use by the A1 Collaboration at the Institute for Nuclear Physics in Mainz, Germany. The design had to provide adequate support for the 20 kg scintillator bars while gluing light guides and photomultiplier tubes to both sides of the bars using optical cement. The optical cement requires approximately 24 hours to dry and 100 bars have to be glued with this apparatus. To address each of these issues, several different prototypes were designed and reviewed. The selected apparatus minimized size to meet space constraints, with reduced material cost and provided the most time-efficient way to build the neutron detector. Once the schematic design was selected, we produced technical drawings in AutoDesk Inventor. Assembled the structure and completed gluing of the first batch of scintillators, in order to verify the performance. This apparatus was successful at producing high quality scintillators which were evaluated using cosmic rays. National Science Foundation Grant No. IIA-1358175.

Compiler-aided systematic construction of large-scale DNA strand displacement circuits using unpurified components

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thubagere, Anupama J.; Thachuk, Chris; Berleant, Joseph; Johnson, Robert F.; Ardelean, Diana A.; Cherry, Kevin M.; Qian, Lulu

2017-02-01

Biochemical circuits made of rationally designed DNA molecules are proofs of concept for embedding control within complex molecular environments. They hold promise for transforming the current technologies in chemistry, biology, medicine and material science by introducing programmable and responsive behaviour to diverse molecular systems. As the transformative power of a technology depends on its accessibility, two main challenges are an automated design process and simple experimental procedures. Here we demonstrate the use of circuit design software, combined with the use of unpurified strands and simplified experimental procedures, for creating a complex DNA strand displacement circuit that consists of 78 distinct species. We develop a systematic procedure for overcoming the challenges involved in using unpurified DNA strands. We also develop a model that takes synthesis errors into consideration and semi-quantitatively reproduces the experimental data. Our methods now enable even novice researchers to successfully design and construct complex DNA strand displacement circuits.

75 FR 21577 - Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, Powers Ranger District, Coos County, OR; Eden Ridge Timber...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-26

... on soil, slope and hydrological concerns. New system road construction, reconstruction of... natural succession processes. The residual trees would have less competition for sunlight, water and soil... designed to: Minimize soil impacts (erosion, compaction and/or displacement); Minimize damage to residual...

Jim Green | NREL

Science.gov Websites

NWTC. He was the project lead for the design and construction of the NWTC 5.8 MW dynamometer facility completed in 2013. During 2012-2016, Jim was responsible for operations, safety, and engineering assessment of a successful net-power-producing experiment in Hawaii, a fully-functional and grid-connected OTEC

Utilizing Rapid Prototyping for Architectural Modeling

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kirton, E. F.; Lavoie, S. D.

2006-01-01

This paper will discuss our approach to, success with and future direction in rapid prototyping for architectural modeling. The premise that this emerging technology has broad and exciting applications in the building design and construction industry will be supported by visual and physical evidence. This evidence will be presented in the form of…

Low Impact Development Standards

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

Loftin, Samuel R.

The goal of the LID Standards is to provide guidance on the planning, design, construction and maintenance of green infrastructure (GI) features at Los Alamos National Laboratory. The success of LID at LANL is dependent on maintaining a consistent approach to achieve effective application, operation, and maintenance of these storm water control features.

Intelligent systems engineering methodology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fouse, Scott

1990-01-01

An added challenge for the designers of large scale systems such as Space Station Freedom is the appropriate incorporation of intelligent system technology (artificial intelligence, expert systems, knowledge-based systems, etc.) into their requirements and design. This presentation will describe a view of systems engineering which successfully addresses several aspects of this complex problem: design of large scale systems, design with requirements that are so complex they only completely unfold during the development of a baseline system and even then continue to evolve throughout the system's life cycle, design that involves the incorporation of new technologies, and design and development that takes place with many players in a distributed manner yet can be easily integrated to meet a single view of the requirements. The first generation of this methodology was developed and evolved jointly by ISX and the Lockheed Aeronautical Systems Company over the past five years on the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency/Air Force Pilot's Associate Program, one of the largest, most complex, and most successful intelligent systems constructed to date. As the methodology has evolved it has also been applied successfully to a number of other projects. Some of the lessons learned from this experience may be applicable to Freedom.

Design and construction of the POLAR detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Produit, N.; Bao, T. W.; Batsch, T.; Bernasconi, T.; Britvich, I.; Cadoux, F.; Cernuda, I.; Chai, J. Y.; Dong, Y. W.; Gauvin, N.; Hajdas, W.; Kole, M.; Kong, M. N.; Kramert, R.; Li, L.; Liu, J. T.; Liu, X.; Marcinkowski, R.; Orsi, S.; Pohl, M.; Rapin, D.; Rybka, D.; Rutczynska, A.; Shi, H. L.; Socha, P.; Sun, J. C.; Song, L. M.; Szabelski, J.; Traseira, I.; Xiao, H. L.; Wang, R. J.; Wen, X.; Wu, B. B.; Zhang, L.; Zhang, L. Y.; Zhang, S. N.; Zhang, Y. J.; Zwolinska, A.

2018-01-01

The POLAR detector is a space based Gamma Ray Burst (GRB) polarimeter with a wide field of view, which covers almost half the sky. The instrument uses Compton scattering of gamma rays on a plastic scintillator hodoscope to measure the polarization of the incoming photons. The instrument has been successfully launched on board of the Chinese space laboratory Tiangong 2 on September 15, 2016. The construction of the instrument components is described in this article. Details are provided on problems encountered during the construction phase and their solutions. Initial performance of the instrument in orbit is as expected from ground tests and Monte Carlo simulation.

Development and fabrication of a solar cell junction processing system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bunker, S.

1981-01-01

A solar cell junction processing system was developed and fabricated. A pulsed electron beam for the four inch wafers is being assembled and tested, wafers were successfully pulsed, and solar cells fabricated. Assembly of the transport locks is completed. The transport was operated successfully but not with sufficient reproducibility. An experiment test facility to examine potential scaleup problems associated with the proposed ion implanter design was constructed and operated. Cells were implanted and found to have efficiency identical to the normal Spire implant process.

Constructing a 4-Tesla Large Thin Solenoid at the Limit of what can BE Safely Operated

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hervé, A.

The 4-tesla, 6m free bore CMS solenoid has been successfully tested, operated and mapped at CERN during the autumn of 2006 in a surface hall and fully recommissioned in the underground experimental area in the autumn of 2008. The conceptual design started in 1990, the R&D studies in 1993, and the construction was approved in 1997. At the time the main parameters of this project were considered beyond what was thought possible as, in particular, the total stored magnetic energy reaches 2.6GJ for a specific magnetic energy density exceeding 11 kJ/kg of cold mass. During this period, the international design and construction team had to make several important technical choices, particularly mechanical ones, to maximize the chances of reaching the nominal induction of 4T. These design choices are explained and critically reviewed in the light of what is presently known to determine if better solutions would be possible today for constructing a new large high-field thin solenoid for a future detector magnet.

FutureGen 2.0 Pipeline and Regional Carbon Capture Storage Project - Final Report

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

Burger, Chris; Wortman, David; Brown, Chris

The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) FutureGen 2.0 Program involves two projects: (1) the Oxy-Combustion Power Plant Project and (2) the CO2 Pipeline and Storage Project. This Final Technical Report is focused on the CO2 Pipeline and Storage Project. The FutureGen 2.0 CO2 Pipeline and Storage Project evolved from an initial siting and project definition effort in Phase I, into the Phase II activity consisting permitting, design development, the acquisition of land rights, facility design, and licensing and regulatory approvals. Phase II also progressed into construction packaging, construction procurement, and targeted early preparatory activities in the field. The CO2 Pipelinemore » and Storage Project accomplishments were significant, and in some cases unprecedented. The engineering, permitting, legal, stakeholder, and commercial learnings substantially advance the nation’s understanding of commercial-scale CO2 storage in deep saline aquifers. Voluminous and significant information was obtained from the drilling and the testing program of the subsurface, and sophisticated modeling was performed that held up to a wide range of scrutiny. All designs progressed to the point of securing construction contracts or comfort letters attesting to successful negotiation of all contract terms and willing execution at the appropriate time all major project elements – pipeline, surface facilities, and subsurface – as well as operations. While the physical installation of the planned facilities did not proceed in part due to insufficient time to complete the project prior to the expiration of federal funding, the project met significant objectives prior to DOE’s closeout decision. Had additional time been available, there were no known, insurmountable obstacles that would have precluded successful construction and operation of the project. Due to the suspension of the project, site restoration activities were developed and the work was accomplished. The site restoration efforts are also documented in this report. All permit applications had been submitted to all agencies for those permits or approvals required prior to the start of project construction. Most of the requisite permits were received during Phase II. This report includes information on each permitting effort. Successes and lessons learned are included in this report that will add value to the next generation of carbon storage efforts.« less

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

Fazalare, R.W.; Hayes, S.J.

One decision hydro project designers and developers make when building a new facility is what method to use to embed the turbine spiral case in the powerhouse concrete. The type of technique chosen often is based on the long-standing practice or individual preference of the plant owner. However, according to a recent industry survey, any method can be used successfully if proper design and installation procedures are followed. Although pressurized embedment has been the prominent method in the past, especially in the US, the bare deflated casing method is gaining popularity throughout the world because it can reduce cost andmore » construction time. This method has been the primary technique used with apparent success in Japan and Scandinavia.« less

Constructing experimental designs for discrete-choice experiments: report of the ISPOR Conjoint Analysis Experimental Design Good Research Practices Task Force.

PubMed

Reed Johnson, F; Lancsar, Emily; Marshall, Deborah; Kilambi, Vikram; Mühlbacher, Axel; Regier, Dean A; Bresnahan, Brian W; Kanninen, Barbara; Bridges, John F P

2013-01-01

Stated-preference methods are a class of evaluation techniques for studying the preferences of patients and other stakeholders. While these methods span a variety of techniques, conjoint-analysis methods-and particularly discrete-choice experiments (DCEs)-have become the most frequently applied approach in health care in recent years. Experimental design is an important stage in the development of such methods, but establishing a consensus on standards is hampered by lack of understanding of available techniques and software. This report builds on the previous ISPOR Conjoint Analysis Task Force Report: Conjoint Analysis Applications in Health-A Checklist: A Report of the ISPOR Good Research Practices for Conjoint Analysis Task Force. This report aims to assist researchers specifically in evaluating alternative approaches to experimental design, a difficult and important element of successful DCEs. While this report does not endorse any specific approach, it does provide a guide for choosing an approach that is appropriate for a particular study. In particular, it provides an overview of the role of experimental designs for the successful implementation of the DCE approach in health care studies, and it provides researchers with an introduction to constructing experimental designs on the basis of study objectives and the statistical model researchers have selected for the study. The report outlines the theoretical requirements for designs that identify choice-model preference parameters and summarizes and compares a number of available approaches for constructing experimental designs. The task-force leadership group met via bimonthly teleconferences and in person at ISPOR meetings in the United States and Europe. An international group of experimental-design experts was consulted during this process to discuss existing approaches for experimental design and to review the task force's draft reports. In addition, ISPOR members contributed to developing a consensus report by submitting written comments during the review process and oral comments during two forum presentations at the ISPOR 16th and 17th Annual International Meetings held in Baltimore (2011) and Washington, DC (2012). Copyright © 2013 International Society for Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Measure Guideline: Summary of Interior Ducts in New Construction, Including an Efficient, Affordable Method to Install Fur-Down Interior Ducts

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

Beal, D.; McIlvaine , J.; Fonorow, K.

2011-11-01

This document illustrates guidelines for the efficient installation of interior duct systems in new housing, including the fur-up chase method, the fur-down chase method, and interior ducts positioned in sealed attics or sealed crawl spaces. This document illustrates guidelines for the efficient installation of interior duct systems in new housing. Interior ducts result from bringing the duct work inside a home's thermal and air barrier. Architects, designers, builders, and new home buyers should thoroughly investigate any opportunity for energy savings that is as easy to implement during construction, such as the opportunity to construct interior duct work. In addition tomore » enhanced energy efficiency, interior ductwork results in other important advantages, such as improved indoor air quality, increased system durability and increased homeowner comfort. While the advantages of well-designed and constructed interior duct systems are recognized, the implementation of this approach has not gained a significant market acceptance. This guideline describes a variety of methods to create interior ducts including the fur-up chase method, the fur-down chase method, and interior ducts positioned in sealed attics or sealed crawl spaces. As communication of the intent of an interior duct system, and collaboration on its construction are paramount to success, this guideline details the critical design, planning, construction, inspection, and verification steps that must be taken. Involved in this process are individuals from the design team; sales/marketing team; and mechanical, insulation, plumbing, electrical, framing, drywall and solar contractors.« less

Continued Water-Based Phase Change Material Heat Exchanger Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hansen, Scott; Poynot, Joe

2014-01-01

In a cyclical heat load environment such as low Lunar orbit, a spacecraft's radiators are not sized to reject the full heat load requirement. Traditionally, a supplemental heat rejection device (SHReD) such as an evaporator or sublimator is used to act as a "topper" to meet the additional heat rejection demands. Utilizing a Phase Change Material (PCM) heat exchanger (HX) as a SHReD provides an attractive alternative to evaporators and sublimators as PCM HXs do not use a consumable, thereby leading to reduced launch mass and volume requirements. In continued pursuit of water PCM HX development two full-scale, Orion sized water-based PCM HX's were constructed by Mezzo Technologies. These HX's were designed by applying prior research and experimentation to the full scale design. Design options considered included bladder restraint and clamping mechanisms, bladder manufacturing, tube patterns, fill/drain methods, manifold dimensions, weight optimization, and midplate designs. Design and construction of these HX's led to successful testing of both PCM HX's.

Building Information Modelling: Challenges and Barriers in Implement of BIM for Interior Design Industry in Malaysia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamid, A. B. Abd; Taib, M. Z. Mohd; Razak, A. H. N. Abdul; Embi, M. R.

2018-04-01

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is an innovative approach that has developed crossways the global in architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry. The construction industry of Malaysia has undergone a rapid development and dynamic technology adoption in advance and methods between the players industry and stakeholders. Consequently, limited technologies and devices have not been successful as it should have been. This study will be emphasizing scenarios of challenges and barriers in adopting BIM in interior design industry in Malaysia. The study was emphasizing the challenges and barriers in BIM usage from the designer’s perspective. The data are collected through the questionnaires as to identifying the barriers, knowledge, readiness and awareness and distributed to interior design firms were selected randomly. The finding of this research is to examine the barriers and causes of variables BIM usage for interior design industry in Malaysia. The outcome of this study is to identify the constraint of adoption BIM in interior design industry compare to others players in same industry.

A Novel Latin Hypercube Algorithm via Translational Propagation

PubMed Central

Pan, Guang; Ye, Pengcheng

2014-01-01

Metamodels have been widely used in engineering design to facilitate analysis and optimization of complex systems that involve computationally expensive simulation programs. The accuracy of metamodels is directly related to the experimental designs used. Optimal Latin hypercube designs are frequently used and have been shown to have good space-filling and projective properties. However, the high cost in constructing them limits their use. In this paper, a methodology for creating novel Latin hypercube designs via translational propagation and successive local enumeration algorithm (TPSLE) is developed without using formal optimization. TPSLE algorithm is based on the inspiration that a near optimal Latin Hypercube design can be constructed by a simple initial block with a few points generated by algorithm SLE as a building block. In fact, TPSLE algorithm offers a balanced trade-off between the efficiency and sampling performance. The proposed algorithm is compared to two existing algorithms and is found to be much more efficient in terms of the computation time and has acceptable space-filling and projective properties. PMID:25276844

OPC model data collection for 45-nm technology node using automatic CD-SEM offline recipe creation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fischer, Daniel; Talbi, Mohamed; Wei, Alex; Menadeva, Ovadya; Cornell, Roger

2007-03-01

Optical and Process Correction in the 45nm node is requiring an ever higher level of characterization. The greater complexity drives a need for automation of the metrology process allowing more efficient, accurate and effective use of the engineering resources and metrology tool time in the fab, helping to satisfy what seems an insatiable appetite for data by lithographers and modelers charged with development of 45nm and 32nm processes. The scope of the work referenced here is a 45nm design cycle "full-loop automation", starting with gds formatted target design layout and ending with the necessary feedback of one and two dimensional printed wafer metrology. In this paper the authors consider the key elements of software, algorithmic framework and Critical Dimension Scanning Electron Microscope (CDSEM) functionality necessary to automate its recipe creation. We evaluate specific problems with the methodology of the former art, "on-tool on-wafer" recipe construction, and discuss how the implementation of the design based recipe generation improves upon the overall metrology process. Individual target-by-target construction, use of a one pattern recognition template fits all approach, a blind navigation to the desired measurement feature, lengthy sessions on tool to construct recipes and limited ability to determine measurement quality in the resultant data set are each discussed as to how the state of the art Design Based Metrology (DBM) approach is implemented. The offline created recipes have shown pattern recognition success rates of up to 100% and measurement success rates of up to 93% for line/space as well as for 2D Minimum/Maximum measurements without manual assists during measurement.

Total Quality Management Practices and Their Effects on Organizational Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hung, Richard Yu-Yuan; Lien, Bella Ya-Hui

2004-01-01

This paper reports a study designed to examine the key concepts of Total Quality Management (TQM) implementation and their effects on organizational performance. Process Alignment and People Involvement are two key concepts for successful implementation of TQM. The purpose of this paper is to discuss how these two constructs affect organizational…

Technical Communication Competence and Projected Teacher Success.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Powers, William G.; Lowry, David N.

Technical Communication Competence (TCC)is the competence involved in communicating mental images to others in such a manner as to result in their constructing comparable mental images, a process similar to the primary task demanded of teachers at all levels. In a study designed to discover the extent to which a positive relationship existed…

The Construction of a Public Face as a School Principal

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Moller, Jorunn

2012-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine how successful school leaders in Norway frame their public identity and how their narratives may be understood in relation to different discourses on leadership. Design/methodology/approach: The approach draws upon a theoretical perspective which asserts that there is a profound connection between…

Meeting the Challenge of Limited Literacy Resources for Adolescents and Adults with Intellectual Disabilities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morgan, Michelle F.; Moni, Karen B.

2008-01-01

For adolescents and adults with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities (or, in the UK, learning disabilities or learning difficulties), the achievement of successful engagement with, and construction of meaning from, texts necessitates the implementation and use of specifically designed and adapted teaching strategies and resources. The…

Evidence-Based and Value-Based Decision Making About Healthcare Design: An Economic Evaluation of the Safety and Quality Outcomes.

PubMed

Zadeh, Rana; Sadatsafavi, Hessam; Xue, Ryan

2015-01-01

This study describes a vision and framework that can facilitate the implementation of evidence-based design (EBD), scientific knowledge base into the process of the design, construction, and operation of healthcare facilities and clarify the related safety and quality outcomes for the stakeholders. The proposed framework pairs EBD with value-driven decision making and aims to improve communication among stakeholders by providing a common analytical language. Recent EBD research indicates that the design and operation of healthcare facilities contribute to an organization's operational success by improving safety, quality, and efficiency. However, because little information is available about the financial returns of evidence-based investments, such investments are readily eliminated during the capital-investment decision-making process. To model the proposed framework, we used engineering economy tools to evaluate the return on investments in six successful cases, identified by a literature review, in which facility design and operation interventions resulted in reductions in hospital-acquired infections, patient falls, staff injuries, and patient anxiety. In the evidence-based cases, calculated net present values, internal rates of return, and payback periods indicated that the long-term benefits of interventions substantially outweighed the intervention costs. This article explained a framework to develop a research-based and value-based communication language on specific interventions along the planning, design and construction, operation, and evaluation stages. Evidence-based and value-based design frameworks can be applied to communicate the life-cycle costs and savings of EBD interventions to stakeholders, thereby contributing to more informed decision makings and the optimization of healthcare infrastructures. © The Author(s) 2015.

High altitude ballooning as a platform for student research experiences in science and engineering

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Armstrong, John; Larson, Shane; Hiscock, Bill

2008-10-01

Humans have dreamed of sailing high above Earth's atmosphere and making the voyage into outer space. At the start of the 21st Century, our students can send their own research experiments from the surface of Earth to the fringes of outer space, borne aloft by high altitude balloons. Colloquially known as near-space platforms, these balloon systems are designed, constructed and own by the students themselves. They are inexpensive to construct, are built with common electronic and hardware components that are easily purchased from commercial vendors, and can be launched and recovered in a single day. The systems are reusable and can be own many times, allowing students to many new experiments during their student lifetime, or to a single experiment many times to acquire extended scientific data sets. We will focus the presentation on Weber State University's High Altitude Reconnaissance Balloon for Outreach and Research (HARBOR) that is based on the successful Montana State BOREALIS ballooning program. We will outline successful strategies for engaging undergraduate students in research and design using such programs.

Elementary students' engagement in failure-prone engineering design tasks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Andrews, Chelsea Joy

Although engineering education has been practiced at the undergraduate level for over a century, only fairly recently has the field broadened to include the elementary level; the pre-college division of the American Society of Engineering Education was established in 2003. As a result, while recent education standards require engineering in elementary schools, current studies are still filling in basic research on how best to design and implement elementary engineering activities. One area in need of investigation is how students engage with physical failure in design tasks. In this dissertation, I explore how upper elementary students engage in failure-prone engineering design tasks in an out-of-school environment. In a series of three empirical case studies, I look closely at how students evaluate failed tests and decide on changes to their design constructions, how their reasoning evolves as they repeatedly encounter physical failure, and how students and facilitators co-construct testing norms where repetitive failure is manageable. I also briefly investigate how students' engagement differs in a task that features near-immediate success. By closely examining student groups' discourse and their interactions with their design constructions, I found that these students: are able to engage in iteration and see failure-as-feedback with minimal externally-imposed structure; seem to be designing in a more sophisticated manner, attending to multiple causal factors, after experiencing repetitive failure; and are able to manage the stress and frustration of repetitive failure, provided the co-constructed testing norms of the workshop environment are supportive of failure management. These results have both pedagogical implications, in terms of how to create and facilitate design tasks, and methodological implications--namely, I highlight the particular insights afforded by a case study approach for analyzing engagement in design tasks.

Design and construction of prototype radio antenna for shortest radio wavelengths

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leighton, R. B.

1975-01-01

A paraboloid radio antenna of 10.4 meters diameter, 0.41 meter focal length was constructed and its successful completion is described. The surface accuracy of the antenna is at least four times better than any existing antenna in its class size (50 micrometers rms). Antenna design specifications (i.e., for mounting, drive motors, honeycomb structures) are discussed and engineering drawings and photographs of antenna components are shown. The antenna will be used for millimeter-wave interferometry and sub-millimeter wave radiometry over a full frequency range (up to approximately 860 GHz). The antenna will also be moveable (for interferometric use) between reinforced concrete pads by rail. The effects of the weather and gravity on antenna performance are briefly discussed.

An assessment of the performance of municipal constructed wetlands in Ireland.

PubMed

Hickey, Anthony; Arnscheidt, Joerg; Joyce, Eadaoin; O'Toole, James; Galvin, Gerry; O' Callaghan, Mark; Conroy, Ken; Killian, Darran; Shryane, Tommy; Hughes, Francis; Walsh, Katherine; Kavanagh, Emily

2018-03-15

While performance assessments of constructed wetlands sites around the world have appraised their capacity for effective removal of organics, a large variance remains in these sites' reported ability to retain nutrients, which appears to depend on differences in design, operation and climate factors. Nutrient retention is a very important objective for constructed wetlands, to avoid eutrophication of aquatic environments receiving their effluents. This study assessed the performance of constructed wetlands in terms of nutrient retention and associated parameters under the humid conditions of Ireland's temperate maritime climate. A review of the performance of 52 constructed wetland sites from 17 local authorities aimed to identify the best performing types of constructed wetlands and the treatment factors determining successful compliance with environmental standards. Data analysis compared effluent results from constructed wetlands with secondary free surface flow or tertiary horizontal subsurface flow, hybrid systems and integrated constructed wetlands with those from small-scale mechanical wastewater treatment plants of the same size class. Nutrient concentrations in effluents of constructed wetlands were negatively correlated (p < .01) with specific area, i.e. the ratio of surface area and population equivalents. The latest generation of integrated constructed wetlands, which had applied design guidelines issued by the Department of the Environment, performed best. Storm management design features improved treatment performance of constructed wetlands significantly (p < .05) for total suspended solids concentrations and exceedance frequency of limit values for total nitrogen. Mechanical wastewater treatment plants, secondary free surface water and tertiary horizontal subsurface flow wetlands showed a very large variance in effluent concentrations for organic and nutrient parameters. E. coli numbers in effluents were lowest for integrated constructed wetlands with an arithmetic mean of 89 MPN/100 ml. Despite Ireland's humid climate, some constructed wetland sites achieved long or frequent periods of zero effluent discharge and thus did not transfer any waterborne pollution to their receptors during these periods. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Transitioning from conceptual design to construction performance specification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeffers, Paul; Warner, Mark; Craig, Simon; Hubbard, Robert; Marshall, Heather

2012-09-01

On successful completion of a conceptual design review by a funding agency or customer, there is a transition phase before construction contracts can be placed. The nature of this transition phase depends on the Project's approach to construction and the particular subsystem being considered. There are generically two approaches; project retention of design authority and issuance of build to print contracts, or issuance of subsystem performance specifications with controlled interfaces. This paper relates to the latter where a proof of concept (conceptual or reference design) is translated into performance based sub-system specifications for competitive tender. This translation is not a straightforward process and there are a number of different issues to consider in the process. This paper deals with primarily the Telescope mount and Enclosure subsystems. The main subjects considered in this paper are: • Typical status of design at Conceptual Design Review compared with the desired status of Specifications and Interface Control Documents at Request for Quotation. • Options for capture and tracking of system requirements flow down from science / operating requirements and sub-system requirements, and functional requirements derived from reference design. • Requirements that may come specifically from the contracting approach. • Methods for effective use of reference design work without compromising a performance based specification. • Management of project team's expectation relating to design. • Effects on cost estimates from reference design to actual. This paper is based on experience and lessons learned through this process on both the VISTA and the ATST projects.

Encoded Library Synthesis Using Chemical Ligation and the Discovery of sEH Inhibitors from a 334-Million Member Library

PubMed Central

Litovchick, Alexander; Dumelin, Christoph E.; Habeshian, Sevan; Gikunju, Diana; Guié, Marie-Aude; Centrella, Paolo; Zhang, Ying; Sigel, Eric A.; Cuozzo, John W.; Keefe, Anthony D.; Clark, Matthew A.

2015-01-01

A chemical ligation method for construction of DNA-encoded small-molecule libraries has been developed. Taking advantage of the ability of the Klenow fragment of DNA polymerase to accept templates with triazole linkages in place of phosphodiesters, we have designed a strategy for chemically ligating oligonucleotide tags using cycloaddition chemistry. We have utilized this strategy in the construction and selection of a small molecule library, and successfully identified inhibitors of the enzyme soluble epoxide hydrolase. PMID:26061191

[Construction and selection of effective mouse Smad6 recombinant lenti-virus interference vectors].

PubMed

Yu, Jing; Qi, Mengchun; Deng, Jiupeng; Liu, Gang; Chen, Huaiqing

2010-10-01

This experiment was designed to construct mouse Smad6 recombinant RNA interference vectors and determine their interference effects on bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Three recombinant Smad6 RNA interference vectors were constructed by molecular clone techniques with a lenti-virus vector expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP), and the correctness of recombinant vectors was verified by DNA sequencing. Mouse BMSCs were used for transfection experiments and BMP-2 was in use for osteogenic induction of MSCs. The transfection efficiency of recombinant vectors was examined by Laser confocal scanning microscope and the interference effect of recombinant vectors on Smad6 gene expression was determined by real-time RT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. Three Smad6 recombinant RNA interference vectors were successfully constructed and their correctness was proved by DNA sequencing. After transfection, GFPs were effectively expressed in MSCs and all of three recombinant vectors gained high transfection efficiency (> 95%). Both real-time PCR and Western blot examination indicated that among three recombinant vectors, No. 2 Svector had the best interference effect and the interference effect was nearly 91% at protein level. In conclusion, Mouse recombinant Smad6 RNA interference (RNAi) vector was successfully constructed and it provided an effective tool for further studies on BMP signal pathways.

Apollo Telescope Mount (ATM) gimballed star tracker. [developed for the Skylab program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lana, J. D.

1974-01-01

Design and development of six gimballed star trackers for Skylab's Apollo Telescope Mount, which performed successfully on all three manned Skylab missions and accumulated a total usage time of approximately 3,500 hours, is described in terms of configurations, materials and construction, qualification testing, performance, and reliability characteristics. A brief program history and design changes incorporated during the life of the program are also discussed. Extensive drawings, block diagrams, and photographs are provided.

A Simple and Efficient Method for Assembling TALE Protein Based on Plasmid Library

PubMed Central

Xu, Huarong; Xin, Ying; Zhang, Tingting; Ma, Lixia; Wang, Xin; Chen, Zhilong; Zhang, Zhiying

2013-01-01

DNA binding domain of the transcription activator-like effectors (TALEs) from Xanthomonas sp. consists of tandem repeats that can be rearranged according to a simple cipher to target new DNA sequences with high DNA-binding specificity. This technology has been successfully applied in varieties of species for genome engineering. However, assembling long TALE tandem repeats remains a big challenge precluding wide use of this technology. Although several new methodologies for efficiently assembling TALE repeats have been recently reported, all of them require either sophisticated facilities or skilled technicians to carry them out. Here, we described a simple and efficient method for generating customized TALE nucleases (TALENs) and TALE transcription factors (TALE-TFs) based on TALE repeat tetramer library. A tetramer library consisting of 256 tetramers covers all possible combinations of 4 base pairs. A set of unique primers was designed for amplification of these tetramers. PCR products were assembled by one step of digestion/ligation reaction. 12 TALE constructs including 4 TALEN pairs targeted to mouse Gt(ROSA)26Sor gene and mouse Mstn gene sequences as well as 4 TALE-TF constructs targeted to mouse Oct4, c-Myc, Klf4 and Sox2 gene promoter sequences were generated by using our method. The construction routines took 3 days and parallel constructions were available. The rate of positive clones during colony PCR verification was 64% on average. Sequencing results suggested that all TALE constructs were performed with high successful rate. This is a rapid and cost-efficient method using the most common enzymes and facilities with a high success rate. PMID:23840477

A simple and efficient method for assembling TALE protein based on plasmid library.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhiqiang; Li, Duo; Xu, Huarong; Xin, Ying; Zhang, Tingting; Ma, Lixia; Wang, Xin; Chen, Zhilong; Zhang, Zhiying

2013-01-01

DNA binding domain of the transcription activator-like effectors (TALEs) from Xanthomonas sp. consists of tandem repeats that can be rearranged according to a simple cipher to target new DNA sequences with high DNA-binding specificity. This technology has been successfully applied in varieties of species for genome engineering. However, assembling long TALE tandem repeats remains a big challenge precluding wide use of this technology. Although several new methodologies for efficiently assembling TALE repeats have been recently reported, all of them require either sophisticated facilities or skilled technicians to carry them out. Here, we described a simple and efficient method for generating customized TALE nucleases (TALENs) and TALE transcription factors (TALE-TFs) based on TALE repeat tetramer library. A tetramer library consisting of 256 tetramers covers all possible combinations of 4 base pairs. A set of unique primers was designed for amplification of these tetramers. PCR products were assembled by one step of digestion/ligation reaction. 12 TALE constructs including 4 TALEN pairs targeted to mouse Gt(ROSA)26Sor gene and mouse Mstn gene sequences as well as 4 TALE-TF constructs targeted to mouse Oct4, c-Myc, Klf4 and Sox2 gene promoter sequences were generated by using our method. The construction routines took 3 days and parallel constructions were available. The rate of positive clones during colony PCR verification was 64% on average. Sequencing results suggested that all TALE constructs were performed with high successful rate. This is a rapid and cost-efficient method using the most common enzymes and facilities with a high success rate.

De novo design of a synthetic riboswitch that regulates transcription termination

PubMed Central

Wachsmuth, Manja; Findeiß, Sven; Weissheimer, Nadine; Stadler, Peter F.; Mörl, Mario

2013-01-01

Riboswitches are regulatory RNA elements typically located in the 5′-untranslated region of certain mRNAs and control gene expression at the level of transcription or translation. These elements consist of a sensor and an adjacent actuator domain. The sensor usually is an aptamer that specifically interacts with a ligand. The actuator contains an intrinsic terminator or a ribosomal binding site for transcriptional or translational regulation, respectively. Ligand binding leads to structural rearrangements of the riboswitch and to presentation or masking of these regulatory elements. Based on this modular organization, riboswitches are an ideal target for constructing synthetic regulatory systems for gene expression. Although riboswitches for translational control have been designed successfully, attempts to construct synthetic elements regulating transcription have failed so far. Here, we present an in silico pipeline for the rational design of synthetic riboswitches that regulate gene expression at the transcriptional level. Using the well-characterized theophylline aptamer as sensor, we designed the actuator part as RNA sequences that can fold into functional intrinsic terminator structures. In the biochemical characterization, several of the designed constructs show ligand-dependent control of gene expression in Escherichia coli, demonstrating that it is possible to engineer riboswitches not only for translational but also for transcriptional regulation. PMID:23275562

Modernizing sports facilities

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

Dustin, R.

Modernization and renovation of sports facilities challenge the design team to balance a number of requirements: spectator and owner expectations, existing building and site conditions, architectural layouts, code and legislation issues, time constraints and budget issues. System alternatives are evaluated and selected based on the relative priorities of these requirements. These priorities are unique to each project. At Alexander Memorial Coliseum, project schedules, construction funds and facility usage became the priorities. The ACC basketball schedule and arrival of the Centennial Olympics dictated the construction schedule. Initiation and success of the project depended on the commitment of the design team tomore » meet coliseum funding levels established three years ago. Analysis of facility usage and system alternative capabilities drove the design team to select a system that met the project requirements and will maximize the benefits to the owner and spectators for many years to come.« less

Streamlining the Design-to-Build Transition with Build-Optimization Software Tools.

PubMed

Oberortner, Ernst; Cheng, Jan-Fang; Hillson, Nathan J; Deutsch, Samuel

2017-03-17

Scaling-up capabilities for the design, build, and test of synthetic biology constructs holds great promise for the development of new applications in fuels, chemical production, or cellular-behavior engineering. Construct design is an essential component in this process; however, not every designed DNA sequence can be readily manufactured, even using state-of-the-art DNA synthesis methods. Current biological computer-aided design and manufacture tools (bioCAD/CAM) do not adequately consider the limitations of DNA synthesis technologies when generating their outputs. Designed sequences that violate DNA synthesis constraints may require substantial sequence redesign or lead to price-premiums and temporal delays, which adversely impact the efficiency of the DNA manufacturing process. We have developed a suite of build-optimization software tools (BOOST) to streamline the design-build transition in synthetic biology engineering workflows. BOOST incorporates knowledge of DNA synthesis success determinants into the design process to output ready-to-build sequences, preempting the need for sequence redesign. The BOOST web application is available at https://boost.jgi.doe.gov and its Application Program Interfaces (API) enable integration into automated, customized DNA design processes. The herein presented results highlight the effectiveness of BOOST in reducing DNA synthesis costs and timelines.

Building vascular networks.

PubMed

Bae, Hojae; Puranik, Amey S; Gauvin, Robert; Edalat, Faramarz; Carrillo-Conde, Brenda; Peppas, Nicholas A; Khademhosseini, Ali

2012-11-14

Only a few engineered tissues-skin, cartilage, bladder-have achieved clinical success, and biomaterials designed to replace more complex organs are still far from commercial availability. This gap exists in part because biomaterials lack a vascular network to transfer the oxygen and nutrients necessary for survival and integration after transplantation. Thus, generation of a functional vasculature is essential to the clinical success of engineered tissue constructs and remains a key challenge for regenerative medicine. In this Perspective, we discuss recent advances in vascularization of biomaterials through the use of biochemical modification, exogenous cells, or microengineering technology.

Building Vascular Networks

PubMed Central

Bae, Hojae; Puranik, Amey S.; Gauvin, Robert; Edalat, Faramarz; Carrillo-Conde, Brenda; Peppas, Nicholas A.; Khademhosseini, Ali

2013-01-01

Only a few engineered tissues—skin, cartilage, bladder—have achieved clinical success, and biomaterials designed to replace more complex organs are still far from commercial availability. This gap exists in part because biomaterials lack a vascular network to transfer the oxygen and nutrients necessary for survival and integration after transplantation. Thus, generation of a functional vasculature is essential to the clinical success of engineered tissue constructs and remains a key challenge for regenerative medicine. In this Perspective, we discuss recent advances in vascularization of biomaterials through the use of biochemical modification, exogenous cells, or microengineering technology. PMID:23152325

Attitude sensor package

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aceti, R.; Trischberger, M.; Underwood, P. J.; Pomilia, A.; Cosi, M.; Boldrini, F.

1993-01-01

This paper describes the design, construction, testing, and successful flight of the Attitude Sensor Package. The payload was assembled on a standard HITCHHIKER experiment mounting plate, and made extensive use of the carrier's power and data handling capabilities. The side mounted HITCHHIKER version was chosen, since this configuration provided the best viewing conditions for the instruments. The combustion was successfully flown on board Space Shuttle Columbia (STS-52), in October 1992. The payload was one of the 14 experiments of the In-Orbit Technology Demonstration Program (Phase 1) of the European Space Agency.

Life Cycle Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Energy Analysis of Passive House with Variable Construction Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baďurová, Silvia; Ponechal, Radoslav; Ďurica, Pavol

2013-11-01

The term "passive house" refers to rigorous and voluntary standards for energy efficiency in a building, reducing its ecological footprint. There are many ways how to build a passive house successfully. These designs as well as construction techniques vary from ordinary timber constructions using packs of straw or constructions of clay. This paper aims to quantify environmental quality of external walls in a passive house, which are made of a timber frame, lightweight concrete blocks and sand-lime bricks in order to determine whether this constructional form provides improved environmental performance. Furthermore, this paper assesses potential benefit of energy savings at heating of houses in which their external walls are made of these three material alternatives. A two storey residential passive house, with floorage of 170.6 m2, was evaluated. Some measurements of air and surface temperatures were done as a calibration etalon for a method of simulation.

GROWING ALTERNATIVE SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS: BIOCOMPOSITE PRODUCTS FROM NATURAL FIBER, BIODEGRADABLE AND RECYCLABLE POLYMER MATERIALS FOR LOAD-BEARING CONSTRUCTION COMPONENTS

EPA Science Inventory

The Phase 2 proposal set out to define a number of limited research objectives to carry the project forward, based on the success of research and design carried out in Phase I through to the development and implementation of the project towards a marketable commodity for th...

Proof and Proving: Logic, Impasses, and the Relationship to Problem Solving

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Savic, Milos

2012-01-01

Becoming a skillful prover is critical for success in advanced undergraduate and graduate mathematics courses. In this dissertation, I report my investigations of proof and the proving process in three separate studies. In the first study, I examined the amount of logic used in student-constructed proofs to help in the design of…

Building a Green House in the Redwoods

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Enos, David

2013-01-01

Designing and building homes is normally the responsibility of a professionally trained workforce. So a lot of people are skeptical about the idea of a team of high school students taking on those tasks. Would a young, untrained group of students be able to undertake and successfully complete the construction of an entire home, from start to…

Dahuk Rehabilitation Center. Dahuk, Iraq

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-01-08

this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to Washington Headquarters Services , Directorate for Information...construction services . As a result, it was very likely that the project would be successfully completed without major issues related to inadequate design...visit. Specifically, Quality Control and Quality Assurance personnel were well informed about the history and progression of the project and its

Look Ahead: Long-Range Learning Plans

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Weinstein, Margery

2010-01-01

Faced with an unsteady economy and fluctuating learning needs, planning a learning strategy designed to last longer than the next six months can be a tall order. But a long-range learning plan can provide a road map for success. In this article, four companies (KPMG LLP, CarMax, DPR Construction, and EMC Corp.) describe their learning plans, and…

Construction of a Full-size Component of the ICRH System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mantovani, S.; Sassi, M.; Coppi, B.

2012-10-01

The ICRH system is an important component of the Ignitor project and all efforts have been made to ensure that its design takes into account the construction experience gained in the most advanced laboratories. The system is designed to operate over a frequency range 80-120 MHz, which is consistent with the use of magnetic fields in the range 9-13 T. The maximum delivered power ranges from 8 MW (at 80 MHz) to 6 MW (at 120 MHz) distributed over 4 ports. Since the transition from a detailed design to the actual construction is not without surprises we have constructed a full size prototype of the VTL between the port flange and the antenna straps, with the external support and precise guiding system. The innovative quick latching system located at the end of the coaxial cable was successfully tested, providing perfect interference with the spring Be-Cu electrical contacts. Special care was given to the finishing of the inox surfaces, and to the TIG welds. Vacuum levels of 10-6, compatible with the limit of material degassing, and electrical tests up to 12 kV without discharges have been obtained. A revision of the other key components of the Ignitor machine has been undertaken, taking into account the experience gained in the fabrication of the corresponding prototypes.

Parametric estimation for reinforced concrete relief shelter for Aceh cases

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Atthaillah; Saputra, Eri; Iqbal, Muhammad

2018-05-01

This paper was a work in progress (WIP) to discover a rapid parametric framework for post-disaster permanent shelter’s materials estimation. The intended shelters were reinforced concrete construction with bricks as its wall. Inevitably, in post-disaster cases, design variations were needed to help suited victims condition. It seemed impossible to satisfy a beneficiary with a satisfactory design utilizing the conventional method. This study offered a parametric framework to overcome slow construction-materials estimation issue against design variations. Further, this work integrated parametric tool, which was Grasshopper to establish algorithms that simultaneously model, visualize, calculate and write the calculated data to a spreadsheet in a real-time. Some customized Grasshopper components were created using GHPython scripting for a more optimized algorithm. The result from this study was a partial framework that successfully performed modeling, visualization, calculation and writing the calculated data simultaneously. It meant design alterations did not escalate time needed for modeling, visualization, and material estimation. Further, the future development of the parametric framework will be made open source.

Case study: design, operation, maintenance and water quality management of sustainable storm water ponds for roof runoff.

PubMed

Scholz, Miklas

2004-12-01

The purpose of this case study was to optimise design, operation and maintenance guidelines, and to assess the water treatment potential of a storm water pond system after 15 months of operation. The system was based on a combined silt trap, attenuation pond and vegetated infiltration basin. This combination was used as the basis for construction of a roof water runoff system from a single domestic property. United Kingdom Building Research Establishment and Construction Industry Research and Information Association, and German Association for Water, Wastewater and Waste design guidelines were tested. These design guidelines failed because they did not consider local conditions. The infiltration function for the infiltration basin was logarithmic. Algal control techniques were successfully applied, and treatment of rainwater runoff from roofs was found to be largely unnecessary for recycling (e.g., watering plants). However, seasonal and diurnal variations of biochemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen and pH were recorded.

Synergistic Synthetic Biology: Units in Concert

PubMed Central

Trosset, Jean-Yves; Carbonell, Pablo

2013-01-01

Synthetic biology aims at translating the methods and strategies from engineering into biology in order to streamline the design and construction of biological devices through standardized parts. Modular synthetic biology devices are designed by means of an adequate elimination of cross-talk that makes circuits orthogonal and specific. To that end, synthetic constructs need to be adequately optimized through in silico modeling by choosing the right complement of genetic parts and by experimental tuning through directed evolution and craftsmanship. In this review, we consider an additional and complementary tool available to the synthetic biologist for innovative design and successful construction of desired circuit functionalities: biological synergies. Synergy is a prevalent emergent property in biological systems that arises from the concerted action of multiple factors producing an amplification or cancelation effect compared with individual actions alone. Synergies appear in domains as diverse as those involved in chemical and protein activity, polypharmacology, and metabolic pathway complementarity. In conventional synthetic biology designs, synergistic cross-talk between parts and modules is generally attenuated in order to verify their orthogonality. Synergistic interactions, however, can induce emergent behavior that might prove useful for synthetic biology applications, like in functional circuit design, multi-drug treatment, or in sensing and delivery devices. Synergistic design principles are therefore complementary to those coming from orthogonal design and may provide added value to synthetic biology applications. The appropriate modeling, characterization, and design of synergies between biological parts and units will allow the discovery of yet unforeseeable, novel synthetic biology applications. PMID:25022769

Synergistic Synthetic Biology: Units in Concert.

PubMed

Trosset, Jean-Yves; Carbonell, Pablo

2013-01-01

Synthetic biology aims at translating the methods and strategies from engineering into biology in order to streamline the design and construction of biological devices through standardized parts. Modular synthetic biology devices are designed by means of an adequate elimination of cross-talk that makes circuits orthogonal and specific. To that end, synthetic constructs need to be adequately optimized through in silico modeling by choosing the right complement of genetic parts and by experimental tuning through directed evolution and craftsmanship. In this review, we consider an additional and complementary tool available to the synthetic biologist for innovative design and successful construction of desired circuit functionalities: biological synergies. Synergy is a prevalent emergent property in biological systems that arises from the concerted action of multiple factors producing an amplification or cancelation effect compared with individual actions alone. Synergies appear in domains as diverse as those involved in chemical and protein activity, polypharmacology, and metabolic pathway complementarity. In conventional synthetic biology designs, synergistic cross-talk between parts and modules is generally attenuated in order to verify their orthogonality. Synergistic interactions, however, can induce emergent behavior that might prove useful for synthetic biology applications, like in functional circuit design, multi-drug treatment, or in sensing and delivery devices. Synergistic design principles are therefore complementary to those coming from orthogonal design and may provide added value to synthetic biology applications. The appropriate modeling, characterization, and design of synergies between biological parts and units will allow the discovery of yet unforeseeable, novel synthetic biology applications.

The influence of prototype testing in three-dimensional aortic models on fenestrated endograft design.

PubMed

Taher, Fadi; Falkensammer, Juergen; McCarte, Jamie; Strassegger, Johann; Uhlmann, Miriam; Schuch, Philipp; Assadian, Afshin

2017-06-01

The fenestrated Anaconda endograft (Vascutek/Terumo, Inchinnan, UK) is intended for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms with an insufficient infrarenal landing zone. The endografts are custom-made with use of high-resolution, 1-mm-slice computed tomography angiography images. For every case, a nonsterile prototype and a three-dimensional (3D) model of the patient's aorta are constructed to allow the engineers as well as the physician to test-implant the device and to review the fit of the graft. The aim of this investigation was to assess the impact of 3D model construction and prototype testing on the design of the final sterile endograft. A prospectively held database on fenestrated endovascular aortic repair patients treated at a single institution was completed with data from the Vascutek engineers' prototype test results as well as the product request forms. Changes to endograft design based on prototype testing were assessed and are reported for all procedures. Between April 1, 2013, and August 18, 2015, 60 fenestrated Anaconda devices were implanted. Through prototype testing, engineers were able to identify and report potential risks to technical success related to use of the custom device for the respective patient. Theoretical concerns about endograft fit in the rigid model were expressed in 51 cases (85.0%), and the engineers suggested potential changes to the design of 21 grafts (35.0%). Thirteen cases (21.7%) were eventually modified after the surgeon's testing of the prototype. A second prototype was ordered in three cases (5.0%) because of extensive changes to endograft design, such as inclusion of an additional fenestration. Technical success rates were comparable for grafts that showed a perfect fit from the beginning and cases in which prototype testing resulted in a modification of graft design. Planning and construction of fenestrated endografts for complex aortic anatomies where exact fit and positioning of the graft are paramount to allow cannulation of the aortic branches are challenging. In the current series, approximately one in five endografts was modified after prototype testing in an aortic model. Eventually, success rates were comparable between the groups of patients with a good primary prototype fit and those in which the endograft design was altered. Prototype testing in 3D aortic models is a valuable tool to test the fit of a custom-made endograft before implantation. This may help avoid potentially debilitating adverse events associated with misaligned fenestrations and unconnected aortic branches. Copyright © 2016 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Educational software usability: Artifact or Design?

PubMed

Van Nuland, Sonya E; Eagleson, Roy; Rogers, Kem A

2017-03-01

Online educational technologies and e-learning tools are providing new opportunities for students to learn worldwide, and they continue to play an important role in anatomical sciences education. Yet, as we shift to teaching online, particularly within the anatomical sciences, it has become apparent that e-learning tool success is based on more than just user satisfaction and preliminary learning outcomes-rather it is a multidimensional construct that should be addressed from an integrated perspective. The efficiency, effectiveness and satisfaction with which a user can navigate an e-learning tool is known as usability, and represents a construct which we propose can be used to quantitatively evaluate e-learning tool success. To assess the usability of an e-learning tool, usability testing should be employed during the design and development phases (i.e., prior to its release to users) as well as during its delivery (i.e., following its release to users). However, both the commercial educational software industry and individual academic developers in the anatomical sciences have overlooked the added value of additional usability testing. Reducing learner frustration and anxiety during e-learning tool use is essential in ensuring e-learning tool success, and will require a commitment on the part of the developers to engage in usability testing during all stages of an e-learning tool's life cycle. Anat Sci Educ 10: 190-199. © 2016 American Association of Anatomists. © 2016 American Association of Anatomists.

A stab in the dark: Design and construction of a novel device for conducting incised knife trauma investigations and its initial test.

PubMed

Humphrey, Caitlin; Kumaratilake, Jaliya; Henneberg, Maciej

2016-05-01

Knife attacks are commonly seen in Australia and other countries. During forensic investigations the force with which a wound was inflicted is often questioned. The ability to examine resultant trauma and particular weapons at different forces with an experimental device may lead to better interpretations of knife wounds. The objective of this study is to design, construct and test a device to analyse the characteristics and forces involved in knife attacks, particularly incised wounds. The mechanical variables (e.g. force, angle, knife geometry) involved in knife attacks have been considered to design and construct a suitable device which allows these variables to be systematically controlled and varied. A device was designed and constructed from mild steel. This included a pivoting arm and instrumented knife holder. The arm has adjustable angle and weight so that knives can be operated at different calculated forces. A device was successfully constructed and the repeatability of incised knife trauma and its characteristics in skeletal tissues were investigated. A device which allows reproducible and controlled experiments with knife wounds will be advantageous to forensic investigations. In particular, in determining forces and types of weapons associated with particular wounds, identifying or eliminating suspected weapons and more accurately answering the common question: How much force would be required to cause that particular wound. This could help to characterise the perpetrator. The device can be altered to be used in the future to investigate trauma caused by other weapons. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Establishment of Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) laboratory: Important criteria to consider while designing, constructing, commissioning & operating the facility in Indian setting

PubMed Central

Mourya, Devendra T.; Yadav, Pragya D.; Majumdar, Triparna Dutta; Chauhan, Devendra S.; Katoch, Vishwa Mohan

2014-01-01

Since the enactment of Environmental Protection Act in 1989 and Department of Biotechnology (DBT) guidelines to deal with genetically modified organisms, India has embarked on establishing various levels of biosafety laboratories to deal with highly infectious and pathogenic organisms. Occurrence of outbreaks due to rapidly spreading respiratory and haemorrhagic fever causing viruses has caused an urgency to create a safe laboratory environment. This has thus become a mandate, not only to protect laboratory workers, but also to protect the environment and community. In India, technology and science are progressing rapidly. Several BSL-3 [=high containment] laboratories are in the planning or execution phase, to tackle biosafety issues involved in handling highly infectious disease agents required for basic research and diagnosis. In most of the developing countries, the awareness about biocontainment has increased but planning, designing, constructing and operating BSL-3 laboratories need regular updates about the design and construction of facilities and clear definition of risk groups and their handling which should be in harmony with the latest international practices. This article describes the major steps involved in the process of construction of a BSL-3 laboratory in Indian settings, from freezing the concept of proposal to operationalization phase. The key to success of this kind of project is strong institutional commitment to biosafety norms, adequate fund availability, careful planning and designing, hiring good construction agency, monitoring by experienced consultancy agency and involvement of scientific and engineering personnel with biocontainment experience in the process. PMID:25297350

Establishment of Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) laboratory: important criteria to consider while designing, constructing, commissioning & operating the facility in Indian setting.

PubMed

Mourya, Devendra T; Yadav, Pragya D; Majumdar, Triparna Dutta; Chauhan, Devendra S; Katoch, Vishwa Mohan

2014-08-01

Since the enactment of Environmental Protection Act in 1989 and Department of Biotechnology (DBT) guidelines to deal with genetically modified organisms, India has embarked on establishing various levels of biosafety laboratories to deal with highly infectious and pathogenic organisms. Occurrence of outbreaks due to rapidly spreading respiratory and haemorrhagic fever causing viruses has caused an urgency to create a safe laboratory environment. This has thus become a mandate, not only to protect laboratory workers, but also to protect the environment and community. In India, technology and science are progressing rapidly. Several BSL-3 [=high containment] laboratories are in the planning or execution phase, to tackle biosafety issues involved in handling highly infectious disease agents required for basic research and diagnosis. In most of the developing countries, the awareness about biocontainment has increased but planning, designing, constructing and operating BSL-3 laboratories need regular updates about the design and construction of facilities and clear definition of risk groups and their handling which should be in harmony with the latest international practices. This article describes the major steps involved in the process of construction of a BSL-3 laboratory in Indian settings, from freezing the concept of proposal to operationalization phase. The key to success of this kind of project is strong institutional commitment to biosafety norms, adequate fund availability, careful planning and designing, hiring good construction agency, monitoring by experienced consultancy agency and involvement of scientific and engineering personnel with biocontainment experience in the process.

Design and testing of an MRI-compatible cycle ergometer for non-invasive cardiac assessments during exercise

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important tool for cardiac research, and it is frequently used for resting cardiac assessments. However, research into non-pharmacological stress cardiac evaluation is limited. Methods We aimed to design a portable and relatively inexpensive MRI cycle ergometer capable of continuously measuring pedalling workload while patients exercise to maintain target heart rates. Results We constructed and tested an MRI-compatible cycle ergometer for a 1.5 T MRI scanner. Resting and sub-maximal exercise images (at 110 beats per minute) were successfully obtained in 8 healthy adults. Conclusions The MRI-compatible cycle ergometer constructed by our research group enabled cardiac assessments at fixed heart rates, while continuously recording power output by directly measuring pedal force and crank rotation. PMID:22423637

Issues in the design of high dexterity, force reflective teleoperators

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jacobsen, Stephen C.; Iversen, E. K.; Davis, C. C.; Biggers, K. B.; Backman, D. K.

1991-01-01

The Center for Engineering and Design at the University of Utah is developing an anthropomorphic, hydraulically actuated, teleoperated arm. The system includes a sixteen degree-of-freedom slave manipulator controlled by a kinematically identical, sixteen degree-of-freedom force-reflective, exoskeletal master. The project has focused on four areas: (1) formulating a realistic set of design objectives which balance, against technical realities, the desire for performance, reliability and economy; (2) understanding control issues; (3) designing and fabricating new subsystems necessary for the construction of a successful machine; and (4) integrating subsystems, through a series of prototype stages, into an operational teleoperation system.

The poacher turned gamekeeper, or getting the most out of the design review process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Craig, Simon C.

2010-07-01

This paper presents an accumulation of knowledge from both sides of the design review table. Using experience gained over many reviews and post-mortems, some painful, some less painful; examining stakeholder's viewpoints and expectations; challenging aspects of accepted wisdom and posing awkward questions, the author brings out what he considers to be key criteria for a constructive design review. While this is not a guarantee to a successful outcome, it may nudge the balance from the reviews being an obligatory milestone (millstone?) towards them being a beneficial mechanism for project development.

Design of supercritical cascades with high solidity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sanz, J. M.

1982-01-01

The method of complex characteristics of Garabedian and Korn was successfully used to design shockless cascades with solidities of up to one. A code was developed using this method and a new hodograph transformation of the flow onto an ellipse. This code allows the design of cascades with solidities of up to two and larger turning angles. The equations of potential flow are solved in a complex hodograph like domain by setting a characteristic initial value problem and integrating along suitable paths. The topology that the new mapping introduces permits a simpler construction of these paths of integration.

Using Positive Youth Development Constructs to Design a Drug Education Curriculum for Junior Secondary Students in Hong Kong

PubMed Central

Lam, Ching Man; Lau, Patrick S. Y.; Law, Ben M. F.; Poon, Y. H.

2011-01-01

This paper outlines the design of a new curriculum for positive youth development (P.A.T.H.S. II) in Hong Kong. The paper discusses the conceptual base for designing a drug-education curriculum for junior-secondary students using four positive youth development constructs—cognitive competence, emotional competence, beliefs in the future, and self-efficacy. The program design is premised on the belief that adolescents do have developmental assets; therefore, the curriculum is designed to develop their psychosocial competencies. The goal of the curriculum is to develop the selfhood of these youths and ultimately achieve the goal of successful adolescent development. PMID:22194667

Economic efficiency of high-rise construction in the Moscow program of renovation of housing stock

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Misailovov, Andrey

2018-03-01

The article considers a new initiative of the regional authorities of updating the housing stock designated as the renovation of housing. Its main aspects are analyzed, including the nature of program, economic efficiency of its implementation due to high-rise construction and the regulatory and legislative framework, the procedure for implementing the program, and the time frame for its implementation. The role of the program for regions in which high depreciation of the housing stock is combined with a limited number of sites for a new housing construction is disclosed. The high-rise construction in the renovation program is presented as a variant of a successful solution not only of the tasks of renovating the housing stock, but also of filling the regional budget. The social and economic orientation of the high-rise construction and the involvement of residents in the process of making town-planning decisions in the field of high-rise construction at all stages of implementing the program are shown.

Kinetically Controlled Synthesis of Pt-Based One-Dimensional Hierarchically Porous Nanostructures with Large Mesopores as Highly Efficient ORR Catalysts

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

Fu, Shaofang; Zhu, Chengzhou; Song, Junhua

2016-12-28

Rational design and construction of Pt-based porous nanostructures with large mesopores have triggered significant considerations because of their high surface area and more efficient mass transport. Hydrochloric acid-induced kinetic reduction of metal precursors in the presence of soft template F-127 and hard template tellurium nanowires has been successfully demonstrated to construct one-dimensional hierarchical porous PtCu alloy nanostructures with large mesopores. Moreover, the electrochemical experiments demonstrated that the resultant PtCu hierarchically porous nanostructures with optimized composition exhibit enhanced electrocatalytic performance for oxygen reduction reaction.

Career Success: Constructing a Multidimensional Model

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dries, Nicky; Pepermans, Roland; Carlier, Olivier

2008-01-01

A multidimensional model of career success was developed aiming to be more inclusive than existing models. In a first study, 22 managers were asked to tell the story of their careers. At the end of each interview, idiosyncratic career success "construct ladders" were constructed for each interviewee through an interactive process with the…

Passive Magnetic Bearing With Ferrofluid Stabilization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jansen, Ralph; DiRusso, Eliseo

1996-01-01

A new class of magnetic bearings is shown to exist analytically and is demonstrated experimentally. The class of magnetic bearings utilize a ferrofluid/solid magnet interaction to stabilize the axial degree of freedom of a permanent magnet radial bearing. Twenty six permanent magnet bearing designs and twenty two ferrofluid stabilizer designs are evaluated. Two types of radial bearing designs are tested to determine their force and stiffness utilizing two methods. The first method is based on the use of frequency measurements to determine stiffness by utilizing an analytical model. The second method consisted of loading the system and measuring displacement in order to measure stiffness. Two ferrofluid stabilizers are tested and force displacement curves are measured. Two experimental test fixtures are designed and constructed in order to conduct the stiffness testing. Polynomial models of the data are generated and used to design the bearing prototype. The prototype was constructed and tested and shown to be stable. Further testing shows the possibility of using this technology for vibration isolation. The project successfully demonstrated the viability of the passive magnetic bearing with ferrofluid stabilization both experimentally and analytically.

"Plug and play" logic gates based on fluorescence switching regulated by self-assembly of nucleotide and lanthanide ions.

PubMed

Pu, Fang; Ren, Jinsong; Qu, Xiaogang

2014-06-25

Molecular logic gates in response to chemical, biological, or optical input signals at a molecular level have received much interest over the past decade. Herein, we construct "plug and play" logic systems based on the fluorescence switching of guest molecules confined in coordination polymer nanoparticles generated from nucleotide and lanthanide ions. In the system, the addition of new modules directly enables new logic functions. PASS 0, YES, PASS 1, NOT, IMP, OR, and AND gates are successfully constructed in sequence. Moreover, different logic gates (AND, INH, and IMP) can be constructed using different guest molecules and the same input combinations. The work will be beneficial to the future logic design and expand the applications of coordination polymers.

Design Features and Commissioning of the Versatile Experiment Spherical Torus (VEST) at Seoul National University

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

J. Chung, K.; H. An, Y.; K. Jung, B.; Y. Lee, H.; C., Sung; S. Na, Y.; S. Hahm, T.; S. Hwang, Y.

2013-03-01

A new spherical torus called VEST (Versatile Experiment Spherical Torus) is designed, constructed and successfully commissioned at Seoul National University. A unique design feature of the VEST is two partial solenoid coils installed at both vertical ends of a center stack, which can provide sufficient magnetic fluxes to initiate tokamak plasmas while keeping a low aspect ratio configuration in the central region. According to initial double null merging start-up scenario using the partial solenoid coils, appropriate power supplies for driving a toroidal field coil, outer poloidal field coils, and the partial solenoid coils are fabricated and successfully commissioned. For reliable start-up, a pre-ionization system with two cost-effective homemade magnetron power supplies is also prepared. In addition, magnetic and spectroscopic diagnostics with appropriate data acquisition and control systems are well prepared for initial operation of the device. The VEST is ready for tokamak plasma operation by completing and commissioning most of the designed components.

The Training Evaluation Inventory (TEI)--Evaluation of Training Design and Measurement of Training Outcomes for Predicting Training Success

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ritzmann, Sandrina; Hagemann, Vera; Kluge, Annette

2014-01-01

Training evaluation in research and organisational contexts is vital to ensure informed decisions regarding the value of training. The present study describes the development of a valid and reliable training evaluation inventory (TEI), as it does not exist so far. The objectives were a) to construct an instrument that is theoretically and…

Developing and Evaluating the Culturally Engaging Campus Environments (CECE) Scale: An Examination of Content and Construct Validity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Museus, Samuel D.; Zhang, Duan; Kim, Mee Joo

2016-01-01

The purpose of the current examination was to develop a scale to measure campus environments and their impact on the experiences and outcomes of diverse student populations. The Culturally Engaging Campus Environments (CECE) Scale was designed to measure the nine elements of college environments that foster success among diverse populations.…

Construction, Startup and Operation of a New LLRW Disposal Facility in Andrews County, Texas - 12151

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

Van Vliet, James A.

2012-07-01

During this last year, Waste Control Specialists LLC (WCS) completed construction and achieved start of operations of a new low level radioactive waste (LLRW) disposal facility in Andrews County Texas. Disposal operations are underway for commercial LLRW, and start up evolutions are in progress for disposal of Department of Energy (DOE) LLRW. The overall approach to construction and start up are presented as well as some of the more significant challenges and how they were addressed to achieve initial operations of the first new commercial low level radioactive waste disposal facility in more than 30 years. The WCS disposal facilitymore » consists of two LLRW disposal cells, one for Texas Compact waste, and a separate disposal cell for DOE waste. Both disposal cells have very robust and unique designs. The cells themselves are constructed entirely in very low permeability red bed clay. The cell liners include a 0.91 meter thick clay liner meeting unprecedented permeability limits, 0.3 meter thick reinforced concrete barriers, as well as the standard geo-synthetic liners. Actions taken to meet performance criteria and install these liners will be discussed. Consistent with this highly protective landfill design, WCS chose to install a zero discharge site water management system. The considerations behind the design and construction of this system will be presented. Other activities essential to successful start of LLRW disposal operations included process and procedure development and refinement, staffing and staff development, and training. Mock ups were built and used for important evolutions and functions. Consistent with the extensive regulation of LLRW operations, engagement with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) was continuous and highly interactive. This included daily activity conference calls, weekly coordination calls and numerous topical conference calls and meetings. TCEQ staff and consultants frequently observed specific construction evolutions, such as geological feature mapping of designated excavation faces, disposal cell clay liner installation, disposal cell concrete barrier construction, etc. (author)« less

Mechatronics design principles for biotechnology product development.

PubMed

Mandenius, Carl-Fredrik; Björkman, Mats

2010-05-01

Traditionally, biotechnology design has focused on the manufacture of chemicals and biologics. Still, a majority of biotechnology products that appear on the market today is the result of mechanical-electric (mechatronic) construction. For these, the biological components play decisive roles in the design solution; the biological entities are either integral parts of the design, or are transformed by the mechatronic system. This article explains how the development and production engineering design principles used for typical mechanical products can be adapted to the demands of biotechnology products, and how electronics, mechanics and biology can be integrated more successfully. We discuss three emerging areas of biotechnology in which mechatronic design principles can apply: stem cell manufacture, artificial organs, and bioreactors. Copyright 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Experienced Practitioners’ Beliefs Utilized to Create a Successful Massage Therapist Conceptual Model: a Qualitative Investigation

PubMed Central

Kennedy, Anne B.; Munk, Niki

2017-01-01

Background The massage therapy profession in the United States has grown exponentially, with 35% of the profession’s practitioners in practice for three years or less. Investigating personal and social factors with regard to the massage therapy profession could help to identify constructs needed to be successful in the field. Purpose This data-gathering exercise explores massage therapists’ perceptions on what makes a successful massage therapist that will provide guidance for future research. Success is defined as supporting oneself and practice solely through massage therapy and related, revenue-generating field activity. Participants and Setting Ten successful massage therapy practitioners from around the United States who have a minimum of five years of experience. Research Design Semistructured qualitative interviews were used in an analytic induction framework; index cards with preidentified concepts printed on them were utilized to enhance conversation. An iterative process of interview coding and analysis was used to determine themes and subthemes. Results Based on the participants input, the categories in which therapists needed to be successful were organized into four main themes: effectively establish therapeutic relationships, develop massage therapy business acumen, seek valuable learning environments and opportunities, and cultivate strong social ties and networks. The four themes operate within specific contexts (e.g., regulation and licensing requirements in the therapists’ state), which may also influence the success of the massage therapist. Conclusions The model needs to be tested to explore which constructs explain variability in success and attrition rate. Limitations and future research implications are discussed. PMID:28690704

Reimagining Game Design: Exploring the Design of Constructible Authentic Representations for Science Reasoning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Holbert, Nathan Ryan

Video games have recently become a popular space for educational design due to their interactive and engaging nature and the ubiquity of the gaming experience among youth. Though many researchers argue video games can provide opportunities for learning, educational game design has focused on the classroom rather than the informal settings where games are typically played. Educational games have been moderately successful at achieving learning gains on standardized items, but have failed to show improvements on related but distal problems. In this dissertation I develop and assess a new design principle, called constructible authentic representations for creating informal gaming experiences that players will actively draw on when reasoning in formal and real world contexts. These games provide players with opportunities to engage in meaningful construction with components that integrate relevant concepts to create in-game representations that visually and epistemologically align with related tools and representations utilized in the target domain. In the first phase of the dissertation, I observed children playing popular video games to better understand what in-game representations children attend to and how interactions with these representations contribute to intuitive ideas of encountered STEM content. Results from this study fed into the iterative design of two prototype video games, FormulaT Racing and Particles!, intending to give players useful knowledge resources for reasoning about kinematics and the particulate nature of matter respectively. Designed games encourage players to utilize and refine intuitive ideas about target content through the construction of domain relevant representations. To assess the effectiveness of these designs I conducted two studies of children ages 7-14 playing prototype games in informal settings. An analysis of pre- and post-game clinical interviews, domain specific tasks, and video and logging data of gameplay suggests players developed useful knowledge resources, likely gained and/or refined from experiences in-game, that are employed to solve non-game problems and tasks. Furthermore, players utilized in-game representations as objects-to-think-with when explaining real world phenomena and formal concepts. The results suggest that games designed to include constructible authentic representations can provide players with powerful and useful knowledge resources accessible when thinking and reasoning in a variety of contexts.

Use of maxillofacial laboratory materials to construct a tissue-equivalent head phantom with removable titanium implantable devices for use in verification of the dose of intensity-modulated radiotherapy.

PubMed

Morris, K

2017-06-01

The dose of radiotherapy is often verified by measuring the dose of radiation at specific points within a phantom. The presence of high-density implant materials such as titanium, however, may cause complications both during calculation and delivery of the dose. Numerous studies have reported photon/electron backscatter and alteration of the dose by high-density implants, but we know of no evidence of a dosimetry phantom that incorporates high density implants or fixtures. The aim of the study was to design and manufacture a tissue-equivalent head phantom for use in verification of the dose in radiotherapy using a combination of traditional laboratory materials and techniques and 3-dimensional technology that can incorporate titanium maxillofacial devices. Digital designs were used together with Mimics® 18.0 (Materialise NV) and FreeForm® software. DICOM data were downloaded and manipulated into the final pieces of the phantom mould. Three-dimensional digital objects were converted into STL files and exported for additional stereolithography. Phantoms were constructed in four stages: material testing and selection, design of a 3-dimensional mould, manufacture of implants, and final fabrication of the phantom using traditional laboratory techniques. Three tissue-equivalent materials were found and used to successfully manufacture a suitable phantom with interchangeable sections that contained three versions of titanium maxillofacial implants. Maxillofacial and other materials can be used to successfully construct a head phantom with interchangeable titanium implant sections for use in verification of doses of radiotherapy. Crown Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Architectural design of the science complex at Elizabeth City State University

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jahromi, Soheila

1993-01-01

This paper gives an overall view of the architectural design process and elements in taking an idea from conception to execution. The project presented is an example for this process. Once the need for a new structure is established, an architect studies the requirements, opinions and limits in creating a structure that people will exist in, move through, and use. Elements in designing a building include factors such as volume and surface, light and form changes of scale and view, movement and stasis. Some of the other factors are functions and physical conditions of construction. Based on experience, intuition, and boundaries, an architect will utilize all elements in creating a new building. In general, the design process begins with studying the spatial needs which develop into an architectural program. A comprehensive and accurate architectural program is essential for having a successful building. The most attractive building which does not meet the functional needs of its users has failed at the primary reason for its existence. To have a good program an architect must have a full understanding of the daily functions that will take place in the building. The architectural program along with site characteristics are among a few of the important guidelines in studying the form, adjacencies, and circulation for the structure itself and also in relation to the adjacent structures. Conceptual studies are part of the schematic design, which is the first milestone in the design process. The other reference points are design development and construction documents. At each milestone, review and coordination with all the consultants is established, and the user is essential in refining the project. In design development phase, conceptual diagrams take shape, and architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical systems are developed. The final phase construction documents convey all the information required to construct the building. The design process and elements described were applied in the following project.

TU-H-BRA-07: Design, Construction, and Installation of An Experimental Beam Line for the Development of MRI-Linac Compatible Electron Accelerator

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

Whelan, B; Keall, P; Holloway, L

Purpose: MRI guided radiation therapy (MRIgRT) is a rapidly growing field; however, Linac operation in MRI fringe fields represents an ongoing challenge. We have previously shown in-silico that Linacs could be redesigned to function in the in-line orientation with no magnetic shielding by adopting an RF-gun configuration. Other authors have also published insilico studies of Linac operation in magnetic fields; however to date no experimental validation data is published. This work details the design, construction, and installation of an experimental beam line to validate our in-silico results. Methods: An RF-gun comprising 1.5 accelerating cells and capable of generating electron energiesmore » up to 3.2MeV is used. The experimental apparatus was designed to monitor both beam current (toroid current monitor), spot size (two phosphor screens with viewports), and generate peak magnetic fields of at least 1000G (three variable current electromagnetic coils). Thermal FEM simulations were developed to ensure coil temperature remained within 100degC. Other design considerations included beam disposal, vacuum maintenance, radiation shielding, earthquake safety, and machine protection interlocks. Results: The beam line has been designed, built, and installed in a radiation shielded bunker. Water cooling, power supplies, thermo-couples, cameras, and radiation shielding have been successfully connected and tested. Interlock testing, vacuum processing, and RF processing have been successfully completed. The first beam on is expected within weeks. The coil heating simulations show that with care, peak fields of up to 1200G (320G at cathode) can be produced using 40A current, which is well within the fields expected for MRI-Linac systems. The maximum coil temperature at this current was 84degC after 6 minutes. Conclusion: An experimental beam line has been constructed and installed at SLAC in order to experimentally characterise RF gun performance in in-line magnetic fields, validate in-silico design work, and provide the first published experimental data relating to accelerator functionality for MRIgRT.« less

Ultra-dense magnetoresistive mass memory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Daughton, J. M.; Sinclair, R.; Dupuis, T.; Brown, J.

1992-01-01

This report details the progress and accomplishments of Nonvolatile Electronics (NVE), Inc., on the design of the wafer scale MRAM mass memory system during the fifth quarter of the project. NVE has made significant progress this quarter on the one megabit design in several different areas. A test chip, which will verify a working GMR bit with the dimensions required by the 1 Meg chip, has been designed, laid out, and is currently being processed in the NVE labs. This test chip will allow electrical specifications, tolerances, and processing issues to be finalized before construction of the actual chip, thus providing a greater assurance of success of the final 1 Meg design. A model has been developed to accurately simulate the parasitic effects of unselected sense lines. This model gives NVE the ability to perform accurate simulations of the array electronic and test different design concepts. Much of the circuit design for the 1 Meg chip has been completed and simulated and these designs are included. Progress has been made in the wafer scale design area to verify the reliable operation of the 16 K macrocell. This is currently being accomplished with the design and construction of two stand alone test systems which will perform life tests and gather data on reliabiliy and wearout mechanisms for analysis.

Little Goose Dam Full Flow PIT-Tag Detection System Project Summary.

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

Warf, Don; Livingston, Scott

2009-04-16

In 2006, the design phase of this project was kicked off and was for the most part modeled after the Full Flow PIT installation installed at Lower Monumental Dam during winter and spring of 2006 and 2007. As the Goose Full Flow design progressed and the project started to move towards construction, issues within contracting occurred and the project was put on delay for 1 year. Starting in mid December of 2008, Harcon Inc. was awarded the contract and construction of the new Goose Full Flow PIT-tag detection system began. The purpose of this document is to summarize the installationmore » of the Little Goose Full Flow project from start to finish and to highlight the notable successes and challenges that the installation presented along with the final results and current status.« less

Engineering management technologies of increasing energy efficiency processes in the investment and construction projects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borisovich Zelentsov, Leonid; Dmitrievna Mailyan, Liya; Sultanovich Shogenov, Murat

2017-10-01

The article deals with the problems of using the energy-efficient materials and engineering technologies during the construction of buildings and structures. As the analysis showed, one of the most important problems in this sphere is the infringement of production technologies working with energy-efficient materials. To improve the given situation, it is offered to set a technological normal at the design stage by means of working out the technological maps studying the set and the succession of operations in details, taking in mind the properties of energy-efficient materials. At Don State Technical University (DSTU) the intelligent systems of management are being developed providing organizational and technological and also informational integration of design and production stages by means of creating the single database of technological maps, volumes of work and resources.

Building the Scientific Modeling Assistant: An interactive environment for specialized software design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keller, Richard M.

1991-01-01

The construction of scientific software models is an integral part of doing science, both within NASA and within the scientific community at large. Typically, model-building is a time-intensive and painstaking process, involving the design of very large, complex computer programs. Despite the considerable expenditure of resources involved, completed scientific models cannot easily be distributed and shared with the larger scientific community due to the low-level, idiosyncratic nature of the implemented code. To address this problem, we have initiated a research project aimed at constructing a software tool called the Scientific Modeling Assistant. This tool provides automated assistance to the scientist in developing, using, and sharing software models. We describe the Scientific Modeling Assistant, and also touch on some human-machine interaction issues relevant to building a successful tool of this type.

Studies on Labour Safety in Construction Sites

PubMed Central

Kanchana, S.; Sivaprakash, P.; Joseph, Sebastian

2015-01-01

Construction industry has accomplished extensive growth worldwide particularly in past few decades. For a construction project to be successful, safety of the structures as well as that of the personnel is of utmost importance. The safety issues are to be considered right from the design stage till the completion and handing over of the structure. Construction industry employs skilled and unskilled labourers subject to construction site accidents and health risks. A proper coordination between contractors, clients, and workforce is needed for safe work conditions which are very much lacking in Indian construction companies. Though labour safety laws are available, the numerous accidents taking place at construction sites are continuing. Management commitment towards health and safety of the workers is also lagging. A detailed literature study was carried out to understand the causes of accidents, preventive measures, and development of safe work environment. This paper presents the results of a questionnaire survey, which was distributed among various categories of construction workers in Kerala region. The paper examines and discusses in detail the total working hours, work shifts, nativity of the workers, number of accidents, and type of injuries taking place in small and large construction sites. PMID:26839916

Studies on Labour Safety in Construction Sites.

PubMed

Kanchana, S; Sivaprakash, P; Joseph, Sebastian

2015-01-01

Construction industry has accomplished extensive growth worldwide particularly in past few decades. For a construction project to be successful, safety of the structures as well as that of the personnel is of utmost importance. The safety issues are to be considered right from the design stage till the completion and handing over of the structure. Construction industry employs skilled and unskilled labourers subject to construction site accidents and health risks. A proper coordination between contractors, clients, and workforce is needed for safe work conditions which are very much lacking in Indian construction companies. Though labour safety laws are available, the numerous accidents taking place at construction sites are continuing. Management commitment towards health and safety of the workers is also lagging. A detailed literature study was carried out to understand the causes of accidents, preventive measures, and development of safe work environment. This paper presents the results of a questionnaire survey, which was distributed among various categories of construction workers in Kerala region. The paper examines and discusses in detail the total working hours, work shifts, nativity of the workers, number of accidents, and type of injuries taking place in small and large construction sites.

Comparisons of mosquito populations before and after construction of a wetland for water quality improvement in Pitt County, North Carolina, and data-reliant vectorborne disease management.

PubMed

Anderson, Alice L; O'Brien, Kevin; Hartwell, Megan

2007-04-01

Wetlands serve an important purpose in flood control and water quality, but constructed-wetland sites also provide habitats for mosquito breeding. Communities near constructed-wetland sites often raise a "mosquito" objection when constructed wetlands are proposed. Wildlife and wetland advocates can confuse the public by making unsubstantiated claims about natural predators eliminating or controlling mosquito problems in a constructed wetland. Management of constructed-wetland mosquito habitat, with adequate mosquito surveillance and data analysis, can help lead to a successful project and satisfied citizens. The cooperative project described in this paper, was conducted in the town of Simpson, North Carolina, and was designed to determine the mosquito population impact of wetland construction at Mill Branch Stream, a small tributary of the Tar River in Eastern North Carolina. In the authors' analysis of three years of mosquito surveillance data, month (time of year standing in for temperature and day length) was a significant factor in regression analysis for mosquito numbers, but rainfall was not. Numbers of mosquitoes were not found to be significantly higher after construction than before construction.

Fractional capacity electrolyzer development for CO2 and H2O electrolysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wynveen, R. A.

1980-01-01

The electrolyzer module was designed to produce 0.24 kg/d (0.53 lb/d) of breathable oxygen from the electrolysis of metabolic carbon dioxide and water vapor. The fractional capacity electrolyzer module is constructed from three electrochemical tube cells and contains only three critical seals. The module design illustrated an 84 percent reduction in the total number of seals for a one person capacity oxygen generating system based on the solid electrolyte carbon dioxide and water vapor electrolysis concept. The electrolyzer module was successfully endurance tested for 71 days.

Superconducting ac cable

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, F.

1980-11-01

The components of a superconducting 110 kV ac cable for power ratings or = 2000 MVA were developed. The cable design is of the semiflexible type, with a rigid cryogenic envelope containing a flexible hollow coaxial cable core. The cable core consists of spirally wound Nb-A1 composite wires electrically insulated by high pressure polyethylene tape wrappings. A 35 m long single phase test cable with full load terminals rated at 110 kV and 10 kA was constructed and successfully tested. The results obtained prove the technical feasibility and capability of this cable design.

L-Pyroglutamic Sulphonamide as Hydrogen-Bonding Organocatalyst: Enantioselective Diels-Alder Cyclization to Construct Carbazolespirooxindoles.

PubMed

Ren, Ji-Wei; Wang, Jing; Xiao, Jun-An; Li, Jun; Xiang, Hao-Yue; Chen, Xiao-Qing; Yang, Hua

2017-06-16

Hydrogen-bonding organocatalysts L-pyroglutamic sulphonamides were readily synthesized for the first time by fully exploiting the potentials of L-pyroglutamic acid. The newly designed catalyst was successfully applied in catalyzing asymmetric Diels-Alder cyclization of methyleneindolinones with 2-vinyl-1H-indoles to efficiently assemble carbazolespirooxindoles in excellent stereoselectivity (up to 99% ee, >20:1 dr) and yields (up to 99%). Mechanistic studies disclosed that the well-designed hydrogen-bonding modes between L-pyroglutamic sulphonamide and substrates were crucial for stereocontrol in the cyclization.

Design and evaluation of an electrohydraulic servoactuator using active standby redundancy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, R. L.; Cover, W. E.

1972-01-01

The application is described of active standby redundancy techniques to a large electrohydraulic servoactuator. The advantages and limitations of active standby redundancy are identified. Special areas of investigation during the development test phase of the program were the evaluation of output transients as a function of channel switching and the nuisance switching characteristics of the system. The feasibility of constructing large electrohydraulic servoactuators using active standby redundancy was successfully demonstrated. In particular the stability and predictability of a properly designed hydromechanical failure detector was demonstrated.

A review on the sustainability of constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment: Design and operation.

PubMed

Wu, Haiming; Zhang, Jian; Ngo, Huu Hao; Guo, Wenshan; Hu, Zhen; Liang, Shuang; Fan, Jinlin; Liu, Hai

2015-01-01

Constructed wetlands (CWs) have been used as a green technology to treat various wastewaters for several decades. CWs offer a land-intensive, low-energy, and less-operational-requirements alternative to conventional treatment systems, especially for small communities and remote locations. However, the sustainable operation and successful application of these systems remains a challenge. Hence, this paper aims to provide and inspire sustainable solutions for the performance and application of CWs by giving a comprehensive review of CWs' application and the recent development on their sustainable design and operation for wastewater treatment. Firstly, a brief summary on the definition, classification and application of current CWs was presented. The design parameters and operational conditions of CWs including plant species, substrate types, water depth, hydraulic load, hydraulic retention time and feeding mode related to the sustainable operation for wastewater treatments were then discussed. Lastly, future research on improving the stability and sustainability of CWs were highlighted. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Construction of a scFv Library with Synthetic, Non-combinatorial CDR Diversity.

PubMed

Bai, Xuelian; Shim, Hyunbo

2017-01-01

Many large synthetic antibody libraries have been designed, constructed, and successfully generated high-quality antibodies suitable for various demanding applications. While synthetic antibody libraries have many advantages such as optimized framework sequences and a broader sequence landscape than natural antibodies, their sequence diversities typically are generated by random combinatorial synthetic processes which cause the incorporation of many undesired CDR sequences. Here, we describe the construction of a synthetic scFv library using oligonucleotide mixtures that contain predefined, non-combinatorially synthesized CDR sequences. Each CDR is first inserted to a master scFv framework sequence and the resulting single-CDR libraries are subjected to a round of proofread panning. The proofread CDR sequences are assembled to produce the final scFv library with six diversified CDRs.

Modulated Elliptical Slot

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Abou-Khousa, M. A.

2009-01-01

A novel modulated slot design has been proposed and tested. The proposed slot is aimed to replace the inefficient small dipoles used in conventional MST-based imaging systems. The developed slot is very attractive as MST array element due to its small size and high efficiency/modulation depth. In fact, the developed slot has been successfully used to implement the first prototype of a microwave camera operating at 24 GHZ. It is also being used in the design of the second generation of the camera. Finally, the designed elliptical slot can be used as an electronically controlled waveguide iris for many other purposes (for instance in constructing waveguide reflective phase shifters and multiplexers/switches).

Promoting professional behaviour change in healthcare: what interventions work, and why? A theory-led overview of systematic reviews

PubMed Central

Johnson, Mark J; May, Carl R

2015-01-01

Objectives Translating research evidence into routine clinical practice is notoriously difficult. Behavioural interventions are often used to change practice, although their success is variable and the characteristics of more successful interventions are unclear. We aimed to establish the characteristics of successful behaviour change interventions in healthcare. Design We carried out a systematic overview of systematic reviews on the effectiveness of behaviour change interventions with a theory-led analysis using the constructs of normalisation process theory (NPT). MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsychINFO and the Cochrane Library were searched electronically from inception to July 2015. Setting Primary and secondary care. Participants Participants were any patients and healthcare professionals in systematic reviews who met the inclusion criteria of having examined the effectiveness of professional interventions in improving professional practice and/or patient outcomes. Interventions Professional interventions as defined by the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organisation of Care Review Group. Primary and secondary outcome measures Success of each intervention in changing practice or patient outcomes, and their mechanisms of action. Reviews were coded as to the interventions included, how successful they had been and which NPT constructs its component interventions covered. Results Searches identified 4724 articles, 67 of which met the inclusion criteria. Interventions fell into three main categories: persuasive; educational and informational; and action and monitoring. Interventions focusing on action or education (eg, Audit and Feedback, Reminders, Educational Outreach) acted on the NPT constructs of Collective Action and Reflexive Monitoring, and reviews using them tended to report more positive outcomes. Conclusions This theory-led analysis suggests that interventions which contribute to normative restructuring of practice, modifying peer group norms and expectations (eg, educational outreach) and relational restructuring, reinforcing modified peer group norms by emphasising the expectations of an external reference group (eg, Reminders, Audit and Feedback), offer the best chances of success. Combining such interventions is most likely to change behaviour. PMID:26423853

Kinetically Controlled Synthesis of Pt-Based One-Dimensional Hierarchically Porous Nanostructures with Large Mesopores as Highly Efficient ORR Catalysts.

PubMed

Fu, Shaofang; Zhu, Chengzhou; Song, Junhua; Engelhard, Mark H; Xia, Haibing; Du, Dan; Lin, Yuehe

2016-12-28

Rational design and construction of Pt-based porous nanostructures with large mesopores have triggered significant considerations because of their high surface area and more efficient mass transport. Hydrochloric acid-induced kinetically controlled reduction of metal precursors in the presence of soft template F-127 and hard template tellurium nanowires has been successfully demonstrated to construct one-dimensional hierarchical porous PtCu alloy nanostructures with large mesopores. Moreover, the electrochemical experiments demonstrated that the PtCu hierarchically porous nanostructures synthesized under optimized conditions exhibit enhanced electrocatalytic performance for oxygen reduction reaction in acid media.

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

Venkataraman, M.; Natarajan, R.; Raj, Baldev

The reprocessing of spent fuel from Fast Breeder Test Reactor (FBTR) has been successfully demonstrated in the pilot plant, CORAL (COmpact Reprocessing facility for Advanced fuels in Lead shielded cell). Since commissioning in 2003, spent mixed carbide fuel from FBTR of different burnups and varying cooling period, have been reprocessed in this facility. Reprocessing of the spent fuel with a maximum burnup of 100 GWd/t has been successfully carried out so far. The feed backs from these campaigns with progressively increasing specific activities, have been useful in establishing a viable process flowsheet for reprocessing the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR)more » spent fuel. Also, the design of various equipments and processes for the future plants, which are either under design for construction, namely, the Demonstration Fast Reactor Fuel Reprocessing Plant (DFRP) and the Fast reactor fuel Reprocessing Plant (FRP) could be finalized. (authors)« less

Optical Correlation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cotariu, Steven S.

1991-01-01

Pattern recognition may supplement or replace certain navigational aids on spacecraft in docking or landing activities. The need to correctly identify terrain features remains critical in preparation of autonomous planetary landing. One technique that may solve this problem is optical correlation. Correlation has been successfully demonstrated under ideal conditions; however, noise significantly affects the ability of the correlator to accurately identify input signals. Optical correlation in the presence of noise must be successfully demonstrated before this technology can be incorporated into system design. An optical correlator is designed and constructed using a modified 2f configuration. Liquid crystal televisions (LCTV) are used as the spatial light modulators (SLM) for both the input and filter devices. The filter LCTV is characterized and an operating curve is developed. Determination of this operating curve is critical for reduction of input noise. Correlation of live input with a programmable filter is demonstrated.

Optical correlation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cotariu, Steven S.

1991-12-01

Pattern recognition may supplement or replace certain navigational aids on spacecraft in docking or landing activities. The need to correctly identify terrain features remains critical in preparation of autonomous planetary landing. One technique that may solve this problem is optical correlation. Correlation has been successfully demonstrated under ideal conditions; however, noise significantly affects the ability of the correlator to accurately identify input signals. Optical correlation in the presence of noise must be successfully demonstrated before this technology can be incorporated into system design. An optical correlator is designed and constructed using a modified 2f configuration. Liquid crystal televisions (LCTV) are used as the spatial light modulators (SLM) for both the input and filter devices. The filter LCTV is characterized and an operating curve is developed. Determination of this operating curve is critical for reduction of input noise. Correlation of live input with a programmable filter is demonstrated.

Creation of the Hubble Space Telescope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

O'Dell, C. R.

2009-08-01

The Hubble Space Telescope has been the most successful space astronomy project to date, producing images that put the public in awe and images and spectra that have produced many scientific discoveries. It is the natural culmination of a dream envisioned when rocket flight into space was first projected and a goal set for the US space program soon after NASA was created. The design and construction period lasted almost two decades and its operations have already lasted almost as long. The capabilities of the observatory have evolved and expanded with periodic upgrading of its instrumentation, thus realizing the advantages of its unique design. The success of this long-lived observatory is closely tied to the availability of the Space Shuttle and the end of the Shuttle program means that the end of the Hubble program will follow before long.

Familiarity effects in the construction of facial-composite images using modern software systems.

PubMed

Frowd, Charlie D; Skelton, Faye C; Butt, Neelam; Hassan, Amal; Fields, Stephen; Hancock, Peter J B

2011-12-01

We investigate the effect of target familiarity on the construction of facial composites, as used by law enforcement to locate criminal suspects. Two popular software construction methods were investigated. Participants were shown a target face that was either familiar or unfamiliar to them and constructed a composite of it from memory using a typical 'feature' system, involving selection of individual facial features, or one of the newer 'holistic' types, involving repeated selection and breeding from arrays of whole faces. This study found that composites constructed of a familiar face were named more successfully than composites of an unfamiliar face; also, naming of composites of internal and external features was equivalent for construction of unfamiliar targets, but internal features were better named than the external features for familiar targets. These findings applied to both systems, although benefit emerged for the holistic type due to more accurate construction of internal features and evidence for a whole-face advantage. STATEMENT OF RELEVANCE: This work is of relevance to practitioners who construct facial composites with witnesses to and victims of crime, as well as for software designers to help them improve the effectiveness of their composite systems.

Hybrid Active/Passive Jet Engine Noise Suppression System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parente, C. A.; Arcas, N.; Walker, B. E.; Hersh, A. S.; Rice, E. J.

1999-01-01

A novel adaptive segmented liner concept has been developed that employs active control elements to modify the in-duct sound field to enhance the tone-suppressing performance of passive liner elements. This could potentially allow engine designs that inherently produce more tone noise but less broadband noise, or could allow passive liner designs to more optimally address high frequency broadband noise. A proof-of-concept validation program was undertaken, consisting of the development of an adaptive segmented liner that would maximize attenuation of two radial modes in a circular or annular duct. The liner consisted of a leading active segment with dual annuli of axially spaced active Helmholtz resonators, followed by an optimized passive liner and then an array of sensing microphones. Three successively complex versions of the adaptive liner were constructed and their performances tested relative to the performance of optimized uniform passive and segmented passive liners. The salient results of the tests were: The adaptive segmented liner performed well in a high flow speed model fan inlet environment, was successfully scaled to a high sound frequency and successfully attenuated three radial modes using sensor and active resonator arrays that were designed for a two mode, lower frequency environment.

Nucleic Acid Nanostructures: Bottom-Up Control of Geometry on the Nanoscale

PubMed Central

Seeman, Nadrian C.; Lukeman, Philip S.

2012-01-01

DNA may seem an unlikely molecule from which to build nanostructures, but this is not correct. The specificity of interaction that enables DNA to function so successfully as genetic material also enables its use as a smart molecule for construction on the nanoscale. The key to using DNA for this purpose is the design of stable branched molecules, which expand its ability to interact specifically with other nucleic acid molecules. The same interactions used by genetic engineers can be used to make cohesive interactions with other DNA molecules that lead to a variety of new species. Branched DNA molecules are easy to design, and the can assume a variety of structural motifs. These can be used for purposes both of specific construction, such as polyhedra, and for the assembly of topological targets. A variety of two-dimensional periodic arrays with specific patterns have been made. DNA nanomechanical devices have been built with a series of different triggers, small molecules, nucleic acid molecules and proteins. Recently, progress has been made in self-replication of DNA nano-constructs, and in the scaffolding of other species into DNA arrangements. PMID:25152542

Construction and experimental validation of a simple, compact, resealable, and reliable Vycor{sup ®} superleak assembly for use at low temperatures

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

Jahromi, Amir E.; Miller, Franklin K.

A new method of constructing a superleak assembly for use in experiments involving {sup 4}He or {sup 3}He-{sup 4}He mixtures at very low temperatures is described. Superleaks are made of a porous medium with very small pores and channels. Superleaks are often incorporated in thermomechanical pumps, superfluid magnetic pumps, dilution refrigerators, and superfluid helium transfer systems. We used several cylindrical pieces of Vycor, a permeable glass with average pore diameter of 40 Å and porosity of 28%, as a candidate to be used in our superleak assembly. Our design is simple and compact. Our superleak assembly can be disassembled andmore » easily reassembled for reuse. We successfully tested and validated this device at temperatures between 1.4 K and 2.7 K. We experienced no superfluid leaks into the surrounding vacuum. We also report that thermal cycling caused no performance degradation. It is our goal to share the design and construction techniques of this new superleak assembly.« less

The multi-copy simultaneous search methodology: a fundamental tool for structure-based drug design.

PubMed

Schubert, Christian R; Stultz, Collin M

2009-08-01

Fragment-based ligand design approaches, such as the multi-copy simultaneous search (MCSS) methodology, have proven to be useful tools in the search for novel therapeutic compounds that bind pre-specified targets of known structure. MCSS offers a variety of advantages over more traditional high-throughput screening methods, and has been applied successfully to challenging targets. The methodology is quite general and can be used to construct functionality maps for proteins, DNA, and RNA. In this review, we describe the main aspects of the MCSS method and outline the general use of the methodology as a fundamental tool to guide the design of de novo lead compounds. We focus our discussion on the evaluation of MCSS results and the incorporation of protein flexibility into the methodology. In addition, we demonstrate on several specific examples how the information arising from the MCSS functionality maps has been successfully used to predict ligand binding to protein targets and RNA.

Diffusion bonded boron/aluminum spar-shell fan blade

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Carlson, C. E. K.; Cutler, J. L.; Fisher, W. J.; Memmott, J. V. W.

1980-01-01

Design and process development tasks intended to demonstrate composite blade application in large high by-pass ratio turbofan engines are described. Studies on a 3.0 aspect radio space and shell construction fan blade indicate a potential weight savings for a first stage fan rotor of 39% when a hollow titanium spar is employed. An alternate design which featured substantial blade internal volume filled with titanium honeycomb inserts achieved a 14% potential weight savings over the B/M rotor system. This second configuration requires a smaller development effort and entails less risk to translate a design into a successful product. The feasibility of metal joining large subsonic spar and shell fan blades was demonstrated. Initial aluminum alloy screening indicates a distinct preference for AA6061 aluminum alloy for use as a joint material. The simulated airfoil pressings established the necessity of rigid air surfaces when joining materials of different compressive rigidities. The two aluminum alloy matrix choices both were successfully formed into blade shells.

Integrated modeling tool for performance engineering of complex computer systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wright, Gary; Ball, Duane; Hoyt, Susan; Steele, Oscar

1989-01-01

This report summarizes Advanced System Technologies' accomplishments on the Phase 2 SBIR contract NAS7-995. The technical objectives of the report are: (1) to develop an evaluation version of a graphical, integrated modeling language according to the specification resulting from the Phase 2 research; and (2) to determine the degree to which the language meets its objectives by evaluating ease of use, utility of two sets of performance predictions, and the power of the language constructs. The technical approach followed to meet these objectives was to design, develop, and test an evaluation prototype of a graphical, performance prediction tool. The utility of the prototype was then evaluated by applying it to a variety of test cases found in the literature and in AST case histories. Numerous models were constructed and successfully tested. The major conclusion of this Phase 2 SBIR research and development effort is that complex, real-time computer systems can be specified in a non-procedural manner using combinations of icons, windows, menus, and dialogs. Such a specification technique provides an interface that system designers and architects find natural and easy to use. In addition, PEDESTAL's multiview approach provides system engineers with the capability to perform the trade-offs necessary to produce a design that meets timing performance requirements. Sample system designs analyzed during the development effort showed that models could be constructed in a fraction of the time required by non-visual system design capture tools.

A Simplified Design with a Toothed Belt and Non-Circular Pulleys to Separate Parts from a Magazine File

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hanke, U.; Modler, K.-H.; Neumann, R.; Fischer, C.

The objective of this paper is to simplify a very complex guidance mechanism, currently used for lid separating issues in a packaging-machine. The task of this machine is to pick up a lid from a magazine file, rotate it around 180° and place it on tins. The developed mechanism works successfully but with a very complex construction. It consists of a planetary cam mechanism, combined with a toothed gear (with a constant transmission ratio) and a guiding mechanism with a toothed belt and circular pulleys. Such complex constructions are very common in industrial solutions. The idea of the authors is to show a much simpler design in solving the same problem. They developed a guidance mechanism realizing the same function, consisting only of a toothed belt with non-circular pulleys. The used parts are common trade articles.

KSC-2010-4698

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Workers of Superior Solar LLC in Longwood, Fla., begin to install more than 300 solar panels on the roof of the Propellants North Administrative and Maintenance Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Each panel, built in Sharp Corp.'s Memphis, Tenn., plant, will produce 235 watts of clean energy. The green facility in Kennedy's Launch Complex 39 area will have a two-story administrative building to house managers, mechanics and technicians who fuel spacecraft at Kennedy adjacent to a single-story shop to store cryogenic fuel transfer equipment. The facility is striving to qualify for the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification. If successful, it will be the first NASA facility to achieve this highest of LEED ratings after it is completed. The facility was designed for NASA by Jones Edmunds and Associates. H. W. Davis Construction is the construction contractor. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2010-4700

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Workers of Superior Solar LLC in Longwood, Fla., begin to install more than 300 solar panels on the roof of the Propellants North Administrative and Maintenance Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Each panel, built in Sharp Corp.'s Memphis, Tenn., plant, will produce 235 watts of clean energy. The green facility in Kennedy's Launch Complex 39 area will have a two-story administrative building to house managers, mechanics and technicians who fuel spacecraft at Kennedy adjacent to a single-story shop to store cryogenic fuel transfer equipment. The facility is striving to qualify for the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification. If successful, it will be the first NASA facility to achieve this highest of LEED ratings after it is completed. The facility was designed for NASA by Jones Edmunds and Associates. H. W. Davis Construction is the construction contractor. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2010-4699

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Workers of Superior Solar LLC in Longwood, Fla., prepare to install more than 300 solar panels on the roof of the Propellants North Administrative and Maintenance Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Each panel, built in Sharp Corp.'s Memphis, Tenn., plant, will produce 235 watts of clean energy. The green facility in Kennedy's Launch Complex 39 area will have a two-story administrative building to house managers, mechanics and technicians who fuel spacecraft at Kennedy adjacent to a single-story shop to store cryogenic fuel transfer equipment. The facility is striving to qualify for the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification. If successful, it will be the first NASA facility to achieve this highest of LEED ratings after it is completed. The facility was designed for NASA by Jones Edmunds and Associates. H. W. Davis Construction is the construction contractor. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

KSC-2010-4697

NASA Image and Video Library

2010-09-20

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. - Workers of Superior Solar LLC in Longwood, Fla., begin to install more than 300 solar panels on the roof of the Propellants North Administrative and Maintenance Facility at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Each panel, built in Sharp Corp.'s Memphis, Tenn., plant, will produce 235 watts of clean energy. The green facility in Kennedy's Launch Complex 39 area will have a two-story administrative building to house managers, mechanics and technicians who fuel spacecraft at Kennedy adjacent to a single-story shop to store cryogenic fuel transfer equipment. The facility is striving to qualify for the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification. If successful, it will be the first NASA facility to achieve this highest of LEED ratings after it is completed. The facility was designed for NASA by Jones Edmunds and Associates. H. W. Davis Construction is the construction contractor. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

Quantum-enhanced deliberation of learning agents using trapped ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dunjko, V.; Friis, N.; Briegel, H. J.

2015-02-01

A scheme that successfully employs quantum mechanics in the design of autonomous learning agents has recently been reported in the context of the projective simulation (PS) model for artificial intelligence. In that approach, the key feature of a PS agent, a specific type of memory which is explored via random walks, was shown to be amenable to quantization, allowing for a speed-up. In this work we propose an implementation of such classical and quantum agents in systems of trapped ions. We employ a generic construction by which the classical agents are ‘upgraded’ to their quantum counterparts by a nested process of adding coherent control, and we outline how this construction can be realized in ion traps. Our results provide a flexible modular architecture for the design of PS agents. Furthermore, we present numerical simulations of simple PS agents which analyze the robustness of our proposal under certain noise models.

Simulated Guide Stars: Adapting the Robo-AO Telescope Simulator to UH 88”

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ashcraft, Jaren; Baranec, Christoph

2018-01-01

Robo-AO is an autonomous adaptive optics system that is in development for the UH 88” Telescope on the Mauna Kea Observatory. This system is capable of achieving near diffraction limited imaging for astronomical telescopes, and has seen successful deployment and use at the Palomar and Kitt Peak Observatories previously. A key component of this system, the telescope simulator, will be adapted from the Palomar Observatory design to fit the UH 88” Telescope. The telescope simulator will simulate the exit pupil of the UH 88” telescope so that the greater Robo-AO system can be calibrated before observing runs. The system was designed in Code V, and then further improved upon in Zemax for later development. Alternate design forms were explored for the potential of adapting the telescope simulator to the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility, where simulating the exit pupil of the telescope proved to be more problematic. A proposed design composed of solely catalog optics was successfully produced for both telescopes, and they await assembly as time comes to construct the new Robo-AO system.

Progress on applications of high temperature superconducting microwave filters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chunguang, Li; Xu, Wang; Jia, Wang; Liang, Sun; Yusheng, He

2017-07-01

In the past two decades, various kinds of high performance high temperature superconducting (HTS) filters have been constructed and the HTS filters and their front-end subsystems have been successfully applied in many fields. The HTS filters with small insertion loss, narrow bandwidth, flat in-band group delay, deep out-of-band rejection, and steep skirt slope are reviewed. Novel HTS filter design technologies, including those in high power handling filters, multiband filters and frequency tunable filters, are reviewed, as well as the all-HTS integrated front-end receivers. The successful applications to various civilian fields, such as mobile communication, radar, deep space detection, and satellite technology, are also reviewed.

Fiber pulling apparatus modification

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, Guy A.; Workman, Gary L.

1992-01-01

A reduced gravity fiber pulling apparatus (FPA) was constructed in order to study the effects of gravity on glass fiber formation. The apparatus was specifically designed and built for use on NASA's KC-135 aircraft. Four flights have been completed to date during which E-glass fiber was successfully produced in simulated zero, high, and lunar gravity environments. In addition simulated lunar soil samples were tested for their fiber producing properties using the FPA.

Design, Fabrication, and Characterization of Metamaterials for Transformation Optics and Focusing Applications

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-02-11

of refraction in the region of the “lens”, successfully focusing surface plasmon polaritons (SPP). SUPERABSORBERS: The team used the Rigorous Coupled...PLASMONIC FOCUSING: The team constructed a device capable of splitting and focusing surface plasmon polaritons into different locations depending on the...surface plasmon polaritons , plasmonics 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT SAR 18, NUMBER OF PAGES 19 19a. NAME

Innovation in nanomedicine through materials nanoarchitectonics.

PubMed

Kujawa, Piotr; Winnik, Françoise M

2013-06-18

Materials nanoarchitectonics has led to important innovations in the design and construction of systems in nanoelectronics, nanomachinery, and energy conversion. Recent publications point to the fact that the same approach may be applied successfully to other fields. In this Perspective, we define the key features of materials nanoarchitectonics and examine how they can be used to address current challenges in nanomedicine, placing emphasis on colloidal agents for therapeutic and diagnostic applications.

A National Perspective: Utilizing the Postmodern Theoretical Paradigm to Close the Achievement Gap and Increase Student Success in Public Education America

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Butcher, Jennifer; Kritsonis, William Allan

2008-01-01

The belief that there is one right way or method of inquiry to pursue truth as it is constructed has been rejected by postmodernism. Postmodernism challenges and opens up the central idea that only one set of limits are possible in supporting professional practice. Postmodernism designs a way to look at concepts through the context of meaning. The…

Tissue engineering a human phalanx.

PubMed

Landis, W J; Chubinskaya, S; Tokui, T; Wada, Y; Isogai, N; Jacquet, R

2017-08-01

A principal purpose of tissue engineering is the augmentation, repair or replacement of diseased or injured human tissue. This study was undertaken to determine whether human biopsies as a cell source could be utilized for successful engineering of human phalanges consisting of both bone and cartilage. This paper reports the use of cadaveric human chondrocytes and periosteum as a model for the development of phalanx constructs. Two factors, osteogenic protein-1 [OP-1/bone morphogenetic protein-7 (BMP7)], alone or combined with insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), were examined for their potential enhancement of chondrocytes and their secreted extracellular matrices. Design of the study included culture of chondrocytes and periosteum on biodegradable polyglycolic acid (PGA) and poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA)-poly-ε-caprolactone (PCL) scaffolds and subsequent implantation in athymic nu/nu (nude) mice for 5, 20, 40 and 60 weeks. Engineered constructs retrieved from mice were characterized with regard to genotype and phenotype as a function of developmental (implantation) time. Assessments included gross observation, X-ray radiography or microcomputed tomography, histology and gene expression. The resulting data showed that human cell-scaffold constructs could be successfully developed over 60 weeks, despite variability in donor age. Cartilage formation of the distal phalanx models enhanced with both OP-1 and IGF-1 yielded more cells and extracellular matrix (collagen and proteoglycans) than control chondrocytes without added factors. Summary data demonstrated that human distal phalanx models utilizing cadaveric chondrocytes and periosteum were successfully fabricated and OP-1 and OP-1/IGF-1 accelerated construct development and mineralization. The results suggest that similar engineering and transplantation of human autologous tissues in patients are clinically feasible. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Fabrication of a Neotrachea Using Engineered Cartilage

PubMed Central

Weidenbecher, Mark; Tucker, Harvey M.; Awadallah, Amad; Dennis, James E.

2008-01-01

Objectives Surgical management of long-segment tracheal stenosis is an ongoing problem. Many types of tracheal prostheses have been tried but with limited success because of immune rejection, graft ischemia, or restenosis. Tissue engineered cartilage may offer a solution to this problem, although scaffolds, which are currently often used for support, can lead to biocompatibility problems. This study investigated the feasibility of scaffold-free cartilage to tissue engineer a vascularized neotrachea in rabbits. Study Design Animal study. Methods Autologous neotracheal constructs were implanted in the abdomen of six New Zealand white rabbits. Auricular chondrocytes were used to engineer scaffold-free cartilage sheets. A muscle flap raised from the external abdominal oblique muscle and the engineered cartilage were wrapped around a silicone stent to fabricate a vascularized neotrachea in vivo. In two of the six rabbits, a full thickness skin graft was used to create an epithelial lining. The constructs were harvested after either 6 or 10 weeks. Results All neotracheal constructs were healthy with well-vascularized and integrated layers. The implanted engineered cartilage underwent a remodeling process, forming a solid tracheal framework. Constructs harvested after 10 weeks proved to have significantly better mechanical properties than after 6 weeks and were comparable with the rabbit's native trachea. Conclusion Scaffold-free engineered cartilage can successfully fabricate a well-vascularized, autologous neotrachea with excellent mechanical properties. The results suggest that this approach can be used to reconstruct tracheal defects in rabbits. PMID:18197138

"Measuring up" to ethical standards in service delivery to college students on the Autism Spectrum: A practical application of Powell's model for ethical practices in clinical phonetics and linguistics.

PubMed

Weiss, Amy L; Rohland, Pamela

2014-01-01

This paper examined an interdisciplinary college-based support programme, the Communication Coaching Program (CCP), designed for students diagnosed on the autism spectrum in light of six ethical constructs described by Powell. Collecting data to monitor the successes and ongoing needs of individual participants in the programme is of vital importance, of course, but only addresses a portion of the efficacy question. In addition, the authors, who co-direct the programme and represent different professional expertise and perspectives, recognize the importance of determining whether their evolving intervention model has also been successful in meeting the ethical standards of their respective professions. Careful review of the 4 years of the CCP's operation in terms of ethical constructs has yielded evidence that the CCP, although based on sound principles of theory and scholarship, should be further individualized to meet the particular needs of participants diagnosed with deficits in social communication and executive functioning skills.

Does information available at admission for delivery improve prediction of vaginal birth after cesarean?

PubMed Central

Grobman, William A.; Lai, Yinglei; Landon, Mark B.; Spong, Catherine Y.; Leveno, Kenneth J.; Rouse, Dwight J.; Varner, Michael W.; Moawad, Atef H.; Simhan, Hyagriv N.; Harper, Margaret; Wapner, Ronald J.; Sorokin, Yoram; Miodovnik, Menachem; Carpenter, Marshall; O'sullivan, Mary J.; Sibai, Baha M.; Langer, Oded; Thorp, John M.; Ramin, Susan M.; Mercer, Brian M.

2010-01-01

Objective To construct a predictive model for vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) that combines factors that can be ascertained only as the pregnancy progresses with those known at initiation of prenatal care. Study design Using multivariable modeling, we constructed a predictive model for VBAC that included patient factors known at the initial prenatal visit as well as those that only became evident as the pregancy progressed to the admission for delivery. Results 9616 women were analyzed. The regression equation for VBAC success included multiple factors that could not be known at the first prenatal visit. The area under the curve for this model was significantly greater (P < .001) than that of a model that included only factors available at the first prenatal visit. Conclusion A prediction model for VBAC success that incorporates factors that can be ascertained only as the pregnancy progresses adds to the predictive accuracy of a model that uses only factors available at a first prenatal visit. PMID:19813165

Human Health Science Building Geothermal Heat Pump Systems

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

Leidel, James

2014-12-22

The grant objectives of the DOE grant funded project have been successfully completed. The Human Health Building (HHB) was constructed and opened for occupancy for the Fall 2012 semester of Oakland University. As with any large construction project, some issues arose which all were overcome to deliver the project on budget and on time. The facility design is a geothermal / solar-thermal hybrid building utilizing both desiccant dehumidification and variable refrigerant flow heat pumps. It is a cooling dominant building with a 400 ton cooling design day load, and 150 ton heating load on a design day. A 256 verticalmore » borehole (320 ft depth) ground source heat pump array is located south of the building under the existing parking lot. The temperature swing and performance over 2013 through 2015 shows the ground loop is well sized, and may even have excess capacity for a future building to the north (planned lab facility). The HHB achieve a US Green Building Counsel LEED Platinum rating by collecting 52 of the total 69 available LEED points for the New Construction v.2 scoring checklist. Being Oakland's first geothermal project, we were very pleased with the building outcome and performance with the energy consumption approximately 1/2 of the campus average facility, on a square foot basis.« less

Optimum study designs.

PubMed

Gu, C; Rao, D C

2001-01-01

Because simplistic designs will lead to prohibitively large sample sizes, the optimization of genetic study designs is critical for successfully mapping genes for complex diseases. Creative designs are necessary for detecting and amplifying the usually weak signals for complex traits. Two important outcomes of a study design--power and resolution--are implicitly tied together by the principle of uncertainty. Overemphasis on either one may lead to suboptimal designs. To achieve optimality for a particular study, therefore, practical measures such as cost-effectiveness must be used to strike a balance between power and resolution. In this light, the myriad of factors involved in study design can be checked for their effects on the ultimate outcomes, and the popular existing designs can be sorted into building blocks that may be useful for particular situations. It is hoped that imaginative construction of novel designs using such building blocks will lead to enhanced efficiency in finding genes for complex human traits.

Adaptive design lessons from professional architects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geiger, Ray W.; Snell, J. T.

1993-09-01

Psychocybernetic systems engineering design conceptualization is mimicking the evolutionary path of habitable environmental design and the professional practice of building architecture, construction, and facilities management. In pursuing better ways to design cellular automata and qualification classifiers in a design process, we have found surprising success in exploring certain more esoteric approaches, e.g., the vision of interdisciplinary artistic discovery in and around creative problem solving. Our evaluation in research into vision and hybrid sensory systems associated with environmental design and human factors has led us to discover very specific connections between the human spirit and quality design. We would like to share those very qualitative and quantitative parameters of engineering design, particularly as it relates to multi-faceted and future oriented design practice. Discussion covers areas of case- based techniques of cognitive ergonomics, natural modeling sources, and an open architectural process of means/goal satisfaction, qualified by natural repetition, gradation, rhythm, contrast, balance, and integrity of process.

Analysis of the embodied and operational energy: Study of a suburban house in Athens, Greece

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghiata, Maria

Operational energy can establish how successful a building is, in terms of environmentally 'considerate' design. Though embodied energy of construction materials also comprises an important indicator of the environmental impact of the material, the construction industry does not really promote it as such. This report enhances the significance of embodied energy and its relationship to operational energy (energy in use). Since buildings are becoming less energy demanding, operational energy will be decreasing, so that embodied energy will be gaining ground in the attempt to protect the environment. By the use of an 'environmentally friendly' house as a case study, it was proven that, though changes of the wall, floor, and insulation materials can take place, the operational energy does not change. What is greatly affected is the embodied energy of these construction materials.

Design and Prototyping of a High Granularity Scintillator Calorimeter

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

Zutshi, Vishnu

A novel approach for constructing fine-granularity scintillator calorimeters, based on the concept of an Integrated Readout Layer (IRL) was developed. The IRL consists of a printed circuit board inside the detector which supports the directly-coupled scintillator tiles, connects to the surface-mount SiPMs and carries the necessary front-end electronics and signal/bias traces. Prototype IRLs using this concept were designed, prototyped and successfully exposed to test beams. Concepts and implementations of an IRL carried out with funds associated with this contract promise to result in the next generation of scintillator calorimeters.

High pressure gas spheres for neutron and photon experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rupp, G.; Petrich, D.; Käppeler, F.; Kaltenbaek, J.; Leugers, B.; Reifarth, R.

2009-09-01

High pressure gas spheres have been designed and successfully used in several nuclear physics experiments on noble gases. The pros and cons of this solution are the simple design and the high reliability versus the fact that the density is limited to 40-60% of liquid or solid gas samples. Originally produced for neutron capture studies at keV energies, the comparably small mass of the gas spheres were an important advantage, which turned out to be of relevance for other applications as well. The construction, performance, and operation of the spheres are described and examples for their use are presented.

Modeling antecedents of electronic medical record system implementation success in low-resource setting hospitals.

PubMed

Tilahun, Binyam; Fritz, Fleur

2015-08-01

With the increasing implementation of Electronic Medical Record Systems (EMR) in developing countries, there is a growing need to identify antecedents of EMR success to measure and predict the level of adoption before costly implementation. However, less evidence is available about EMR success in the context of low-resource setting implementations. Therefore, this study aims to fill this gap by examining the constructs and relationships of the widely used DeLone and MacLean (D&M) information system success model to determine whether it can be applied to measure EMR success in those settings. A quantitative cross sectional study design using self-administered questionnaires was used to collect data from 384 health professionals working in five governmental hospitals in Ethiopia. The hospitals use a comprehensive EMR system since three years. Descriptive and structural equation modeling methods were applied to describe and validate the extent of relationship of constructs and mediating effects. The findings of the structural equation modeling shows that system quality has significant influence on EMR use (β = 0.32, P < 0.05) and user satisfaction (β = 0.53, P < 0.01); information quality has significant influence on EMR use (β = 0.44, P < 0.05) and user satisfaction (β = 0.48, P < 0.01) and service quality has strong significant influence on EMR use (β = 0.36, P < 0.05) and user satisfaction (β = 0.56, P < 0.01). User satisfaction has significant influence on EMR use (β = 0.41, P < 0.05) but the effect of EMR use on user satisfaction was not significant. Both EMR use and user satisfaction have significant influence on perceived net-benefit (β = 0.31, P < 0.01; β = 0.60, P < 0.01), respectively. Additionally, computer literacy was found to be a mediating factor in the relationship between service quality and EMR use (P < 0.05) as well as user satisfaction (P < 0.01). Among all the constructs, user satisfaction showed the strongest effect on perceived net-benefit of health professionals. EMR implementers and managers in developing countries are in urgent need of implementation models to design proper implementation strategies. In this study, the constructs and relationships depicted in the updated D&M model were found to be applicable to assess the success of EMR in low resource settings. Additionally, computer literacy was found to be a mediating factor in EMR use and user satisfaction of health professionals. Hence, EMR implementers and managers in those settings should give priority in improving service quality of the hospitals like technical support and infrastructure; providing continuous basic computer trainings to health professionals; and give attention to the system and information quality of the systems they want to implement.

The implementation of health promotion in primary and community care: a qualitative analysis of the 'Prescribe Vida Saludable' strategy.

PubMed

Martinez, Catalina; Bacigalupe, Gonzalo; Cortada, Josep M; Grandes, Gonzalo; Sanchez, Alvaro; Pombo, Haizea; Bully, Paola

2017-02-17

The impact of lifestyle on health is undeniable and effective healthy lifestyle promotion interventions do exist. However, this is not a fundamental part of routine primary care clinical practice. We describe factors that determine changes in performance of primary health care centers involved in piloting the health promotion innovation 'Prescribe Vida Saludable' (PVS) phase II. We engaged four primary health care centers of the Basque Healthcare Service in an action research project aimed at changing preventive health practices. Prescribe Healthy Life (PVS from the Spanish "Prescribe Vida Saludable) is focused on designing, planning, implementing and evaluating innovative programs to promote multiple healthy habits, feasible to be performed in routine primary health care conditions. After 2 years of piloting, centers were categorized as having high, medium, or low implementation effectiveness. We completed qualitative inductive and deductive analysis of five focus groups with the staff of the centers. Themes generated through consensual grounded qualitative analysis were compared between centers to identify the dimensions that explain the variation in actual implementation of PVS, and retrospectively organized and assessed against the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Of the 36 CFIR constructs, 11 were directly related to the level of implementation performance: intervention source, evidence strength and quality, adaptability, design quality and packaging, tension for change, learning climate, self-efficacy, planning, champions, executing, and reflecting and evaluating, with -organizational tracking added as a new sub-construct. Additionally, another seven constructs emerged in the participants' discourse but were not related to center performance: relative advantage, complexity, patients' needs and resources, external policy and incentives, structural characteristics, available resources, and formally appointed internal implementation leaders. Our findings indicate that the success of the implementation seems to be associated with the following components: the context, the implementation process, and the collaborative modelling. Identifying barriers and enablers is useful for designing implementation strategies for health promotion in primary health care centers that are essential for innovation success. An implementation model is proposed to highlight the relationships between the CFIR constructs in the context of health promotion in primary care.

The 2008 Wenchuan Earthquake and the Rise and Fall of Earthquake Prediction in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Q.; Wang, K.

2009-12-01

Regardless of the future potential of earthquake prediction, it is presently impractical to rely on it to mitigate earthquake disasters. The practical approach is to strengthen the resilience of our built environment to earthquakes based on hazard assessment. But this was not common understanding in China when the M 7.9 Wenchuan earthquake struck the Sichuan Province on 12 May 2008, claiming over 80,000 lives. In China, earthquake prediction is a government-sanctioned and law-regulated measure of disaster prevention. A sudden boom of the earthquake prediction program in 1966-1976 coincided with a succession of nine M > 7 damaging earthquakes in the densely populated region of the country and the political chaos of the Cultural Revolution. It climaxed with the prediction of the 1975 Haicheng earthquake, which was due mainly to an unusually pronounced foreshock sequence and the extraordinary readiness of some local officials to issue imminent warning and evacuation order. The Haicheng prediction was a success in practice and yielded useful lessons, but the experience cannot be applied to most other earthquakes and cultural environments. Since the disastrous Tangshan earthquake in 1976 that killed over 240,000 people, there have been two opposite trends in China: decreasing confidence in prediction and increasing emphasis on regulating construction design for earthquake resilience. In 1976, most of the seismic intensity XI areas of Tangshan were literally razed to the ground, but in 2008, many buildings in the intensity XI areas of Wenchuan did not collapse. Prediction did not save life in either of these events; the difference was made by construction standards. For regular buildings, there was no seismic design in Tangshan to resist any earthquake shaking in 1976, but limited seismic design was required for the Wenchuan area in 2008. Although the construction standards were later recognized to be too low, those buildings that met the standards suffered much less damage than those that did not. However, the progress in practice was very far behind the progress in knowledge and regulations; more strict enforcement of seismic design provisions and wiser selection of construction sites would have saved many more lives in the Wenchuan area. The Wenchuan earthquake has started a new era. Confidence in prediction has dropped to a historical low despite a strong sentimental attachment to it, and practical mitigation management has firmly gained its priority position.

Production of heparanase constructs suitable for nuclear magnetic resonance and drug discovery studies.

PubMed

Mosulén, Silvia; Ortí, Leticia; Bas, Esperanza; Carbajo, Rodrigo J; Pineda-Lucena, Antonio

2011-02-01

Heparanase is an endo-β-D-glucosidase capable of specifically degrading heparan sulphate, one of the main components of the extracellular matrix. This 65 kDa polypeptide is implicated in cancer processes such as tumour formation, angiogenesis and metastasis, making it a very attractive target in antitumour treatments. Structure-based approaches to find inhibitors of heparanase have been historically hampered by the lack of success in crystallizing the protein. With the aim to undertake the NMR structural characterisation of heparanase, we have designed and produced, using recombinant methods, smaller constructs of heparanase containing the catalytically active glutamic acids and the two binding sites for heparan sulphate. An extensive range of expression and purification conditions were evaluated to alleviate the intrinsic low solubility and aggregation propensity of heparanase, allowing the obtention of the enzyme in milligram quantities, both unlabelled and ¹⁵N-labelled for NMR studies. Using the smallest of the designed constructs and applying NMR and SPR methodologies, we have demonstrated that known inhibitors of heparanase bind to this construct specifically and selectively with K(D) values in the range of those reported for human heparanase, validating it for future drug discovery projects focused on the identification of novel inhibitors of this enzyme. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Periodic Nanoneedle and Buffer Zones Constructed on a Titanium Surface Promote Osteogenic Differentiation and Bone Calcification In Vivo.

PubMed

Yu, Peng; Zhu, Xiaojing; Wang, Xiaolan; Wang, Shuangying; Li, Weiping; Tan, Guoxin; Zhang, Yu; Ning, Chengyun

2016-02-04

Rapid and effective bone mineralization at the bone/implant interface is required for successful orthopedic and dental implants. In this study, two periodic microscale functionalized zones on titanium (MZT) are created, namely, nanoneedle zones and buffer zones. The aim of this design is to provide spatially regulated topographical cues on titanium to enhance the efficacy of bone regeneration. This goal is achieved using a versatile and effective technique in which nanoneedle structures are hydrothermally constructed on the surface of titanium sheets, after which selective laser irradiation is used to construct buffer zones. The zonal structures of the MZT overcome the suppressive effect of the nanoneedle film on osteoblasts. Additionally, the MZT exhibits zone-selective apatite deposition and protein adsorption. The accelerated in vitro osteoblast differentiation and nodule deposition on the MZT are confirmed. Elemental analysis of the bone nodules formed by the osteoblasts growing on the titanium and MZT demonstrates they have different compositions. Histological and scanning electron microscope analysis of the bone formation on in vivo implants shows that this process is also enhanced by the MZT implant. The concept of constructing functionalized zones on titanium implant could facilitate future research on improving the design of orthopedic and dental implant surfaces. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Bioarchitecture - a new vision of energy sustainable cities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krzemińska, Alicja; Zaręba, Anna; Dzikowska, Anna

2017-11-01

Transformation of the natural environment will press the humanity to search for the new look at the problems of architecture and urban design. Nowadays passive houses construction is a standard and green roofs are incorporated in the design of contemporary cities. That's why city cluster will be successively transformed into sustainable bionic systems, which allows to protect the nature and stop further degradation and exploitation of public green space. The good examples of contemporary trend of designing in harmony with nature are energy sustainable underground buildings of Malcolm Wells, who in 60s designed his first energy sufficient construction. The underground cities and rock houses were built from the early beginning of architecture, with significant examples of cities: Sanmenxia in China in Henan Province, Matmata (Tunisia), Cappadocia (Turkey), Uplisciche (Georgia) or Brlhovce (Slovakia) etc. The underground buildings and cities, blending in with the background of topography, have a positive influence on the landscape and are energy sustainable. Climate responsive design materials create effective insulation, which allows to maintain the stable temperature inside the buildings. Bioarchitecture improves the microclimate in the neighborhood through increasing oxygen concentration in atmosphere and limiting of CO2 emission. Bioarchitecture represents new direction in changing the design priorities towards being closer with nature and it's needs.

Engineering of an inhalable DDA/TDB liposomal adjuvant: a quality-by-design approach towards optimization of the spray drying process.

PubMed

Ingvarsson, Pall Thor; Yang, Mingshi; Mulvad, Helle; Nielsen, Hanne Mørck; Rantanen, Jukka; Foged, Camilla

2013-11-01

The purpose of this study was to identify and optimize spray drying parameters of importance for the design of an inhalable powder formulation of a cationic liposomal adjuvant composed of dimethyldioctadecylammonium (DDA) bromide and trehalose-6,6'-dibehenate (TDB). A quality by design (QbD) approach was applied to identify and link critical process parameters (CPPs) of the spray drying process to critical quality attributes (CQAs) using risk assessment and design of experiments (DoE), followed by identification of an optimal operating space (OOS). A central composite face-centered design was carried out followed by multiple linear regression analysis. Four CQAs were identified; the mass median aerodynamic diameter (MMAD), the liposome stability (size) during processing, the moisture content and the yield. Five CPPs (drying airflow, feed flow rate, feedstock concentration, atomizing airflow and outlet temperature) were identified and tested in a systematic way. The MMAD and the yield were successfully modeled. For the liposome size stability, the ratio between the size after and before spray drying was modeled successfully. The model for the residual moisture content was poor, although, the moisture content was below 3% in the entire design space. Finally, the OOS was drafted from the constructed models for the spray drying of trehalose stabilized DDA/TDB liposomes. The QbD approach for the spray drying process should include a careful consideration of the quality target product profile. This approach implementing risk assessment and DoE was successfully applied to optimize the spray drying of an inhalable DDA/TDB liposomal adjuvant designed for pulmonary vaccination.

A 100 J-level nanosecond DPSSL for high energy density experiments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Butcher, Thomas; Mason, Paul; Banerjee, Saumyabrata; Ertel, Klaus; Phillips, P. Jonathan; Smith, Jodie; De Vido, Mariastefania; Chekhlov, Oleg; Divoky, Martin; Pilat, Jan; Priebe, Gerd; Toncian, Toma; Shaikh, Waseem; Hooker, Chris; Lucianetti, Antonio; Hernandez-Gomez, Cristina; Mocek, Tomas; Edwards, Chris; Collier, John

2017-05-01

We present an overview of the cryo-amplifier concept and design utilized in the DiPOLE100 laser system built for use at the HiLASE Center, which has been successfully tested operating at an average power of 1kW. Following this we describe the alterations made to the design in the second generation system being constructed for high energy density (HED) experiments in the HED beamline at the European XFEL. These changes are predominantly geometric in nature, however also include improved mount design and improved control over the temporal shape of the output pulse. Finally, we comment on future plans for development of the DiPOLE laser amplifier architecture.

Design of a Single Motor Based Leg Structure with the Consideration of Inherent Mechanical Stability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taha Manzoor, Muhammad; Sohail, Umer; Noor-e-Mustafa; Nizami, Muhammad Hamza Asif; Ayaz, Yasar

2017-07-01

The fundamental aspect of designing a legged robot is constructing a leg design that is robust and presents a simple control problem. In this paper, we have successfully designed a robotic leg based on a unique four bar mechanism with only one motor per leg. The leg design parameters used in our platform are extracted from design principles used in biological systems, multiple iterations and previous research findings. These principles guide a robotic leg to have minimal mechanical passive impedance, low leg mass and inertia, a suitable foot trajectory utilizing a practical balance between leg kinematics and robot usage, and the resultant inherent mechanical stability. The designed platform also exhibits the key feature of self-locking. Theoretical tools and software iterations were used to derive these practical features and yield an intuitive sense of the required leg design parameters.

De Novo Computational Design of Retro-Aldol Enzymes

PubMed Central

Jiang, Lin; Althoff, Eric A.; Clemente, Fernando R.; Doyle, Lindsey; Röthlisberger, Daniela; Zanghellini, Alexandre; Gallaher, Jasmine L.; Betker, Jamie L.; Tanaka, Fujie; Barbas, Carlos F.; Hilvert, Donald; Houk, Kendall N.; Stoddard, Barry L.; Baker, David

2012-01-01

The creation of enzymes capable of catalyzing any desired chemical reaction is a grand challenge for computational protein design. Using new algorithms that rely on hashing techniques to construct active sites for multistep reactions, we designed retro-aldolases that use four different catalytic motifs to catalyze the breaking of a carbon-carbon bond in a nonnatural substrate. Of the 72 designs that were experimentally characterized, 32, spanning a range of protein folds, had detectable retro-aldolase activity. Designs that used an explicit water molecule to mediate proton shuffling were significantly more successful, with rate accelerations of up to four orders of magnitude and multiple turnovers, than those involving charged side-chain networks. The atomic accuracy of the design process was confirmed by the x-ray crystal structure of active designs embedded in two protein scaffolds, both of which were nearly superimposable on the design model. PMID:18323453

Construction of probe of the plant growth-promoting bacteria Bacillus subtilis useful for fluorescence in situ hybridization.

PubMed

Posada, Luisa F; Alvarez, Javier C; Hu, Chia-Hui; de-Bashan, Luz E; Bashan, Yoav

2016-09-01

Strains of Bacillus subtilis are plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) of many crops and are used as inoculants. PGPB colonization is an important trait for success of a PGPB on plants. A specific probe, based on the 16 s rRNA of Bacillus subtilis, was designed and evaluated to distinguishing, by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), between this species and the closely related Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. The selected target for the probe was between nucleotides 465 and 483 of the gene, where three different nucleotides can be identified. The designed probe successfully hybridized with several strains of Bacillus subtilis, but failed to hybridize not only with B. amyloliquefaciens, but also with other strains such as Bacillus altitudinis, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus gibsonii, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus pumilus; and with the external phylogenetic strains Azospirillum brasilense Cd, Micrococcus sp. and Paenibacillus sp. The results showed the specificity of this molecular probe for B. subtilis.

Reasoning in molecular genetics: From a cognitive model to instructional design

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duncan, Ravit Golan

Effective instruction strives to help students construct deep and meaningful understandings in a domain. A key component of designing such instruction is a good understanding of relevant aspects of student cognition in the domain. This entails understanding both the cognitive obstacles to learning and the knowledge elements that are crucial to successful reasoning in the domain. While understandings of student cognition are not a prescription for design, they can nonetheless help instructional-designers and design-researchers focus the design and suggest where and what scaffolding should be incorporated into the instructional sequence and activities. In this dissertation I first discuss my research of the cognitive aspects of reasoning in molecular genetics. By studying both high school and college level students' reasoning about genetic phenomena, I have constructed a conceptual model of reasoning in this domain. The model depicts critical types of domain-specific knowledge, the relationships between them, and their role in facilitating reasoning about genetic phenomena. I then describe the design and evaluation of a high school project-based curricular unit in genetics. The unit was developed by a collaborative team of teachers and a researcher and was enacted in a local public high school. The design process was closely guided by our understandings of student cognition in genetics and the resulting instructional intervention was aimed at scaffolding student engagement with important disciplinary strategies and concepts.

77 FR 1780 - Notice of Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) Approvals and Disapprovals

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-01-11

... development--design and construction. Site utilities--design and construction. Stormwater facilities--design and construction. Airside/apron--design and construction. Landside/roadway--design and construction. General aviation terminal/apron--design and construction. Airport beacon relocation--design and...

Construction, expression and in vitro biological behaviors of Ig scFv fragment in patients with chronic B cell leukemia.

PubMed

Zhu, Lijuan; Liao, Wenjun; Zhu, Huifen; Lei, Ping; Wang, Zhihua; Shao, Jingfang; Zhang, Yue; Shen, Guanxin

2006-01-01

The expression vector of SmIg scFv fragment was constructed in patient with B cell chronic lymphocyte leukemia (B-CLL) and expressed in E. coli to obtain scFv fragment, and the effect of the protein on the proliferation of stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was investigated in vitro. Two pairs of primers were designed, and variable region genes of light chain and heavy chain were amplified by PCR respectively from the pGEM-T vectors previously constructed in our laboratory which containing light chain gene or Fd fragment of heavy chain gene. The PCR product was digested, purified and inserted into pHEN2 vector to construct the soluble expression vector pHEN2-scFv. After the induction by IPTG, the scFv protein was identified by SDS-PAGE electrophoresis and purified by Ni-NTA-Chromatography. MTT was used to determine the effect of purified protein on the proliferation of stimulated PBMC in vitro. Plasmid PCR and restriction enzyme digestion of pHEN2-scFv revealed the pHEN2-scFv vector was constructed successfully. Id-scFv protein was expressed in positive clone after induced by IPTG. SDS-PAGE analysis showed that the relative molecular weight of fusion protein was about 30 kD (1 kD= 0.9921 ku), which was consistent with the theoretically predicted value. Proliferation of PBMC could be induced by purified Id-scFv. It was suggested that the expression vector of SmIg scFv fragment was constructed successfully, and scFv protein was expressed and secreted from E. coli, which could induce proliferation of PBMC. This may lay an experimental foundation for further research of Id-HSP complex vaccine for B-CLL.

Three Success Factors for Simulation Based Construction Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Park, Moonseo; Chan, Swee Lean; Ingawale-Verma, Yashada

2003-01-01

Factors in successful implementation of simulation in construction education are as follows: (1) considering human factors and feedback effects; (2) focusing on tradeoffs between with managerial decisions and construction policies; and (3) developing a standalone tool that runs on any platform. Case studies demonstrated the effectiveness of these…

Pittsburgh Public School District / Carnegie Mellon University Robotics Team Participation in the US First Competition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stroupe, Ashley

2002-01-01

FIRST, For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology, is an international program designed to encourage junior and senior high school students to participate in science and technology related activities. FIRST attempts to increase enthusiasm for technology by providing a competitive environment in which to demonstrate robotics technology designed for a particular set of tasks. Carnegie Mellon University provided student members of the project the opportunity to complete the design, construction, testing, and operation of a robot. Electrical, mechanical, and programming skills were stressed, with both adult and senior students acting as mentors for more junior members. Teamwork and integration was also stressed in order to provide students with a realistic feel for project-based work. Finally, an emphasis was placed on recruiting students with greater difficulty in entering technological fields: girls and ethnic minorities and students leaning toward humanities (especially art). Carnegie Mellon built a relationship with Taylor Allderdice High School that lasted four years. For four years, the success of the project increased each year. Each term, the students successfully designed and built a working robot that could fully participate in the competition. The enthusiasm of the students has been the cornerstone of the recruit of new students, keeping the project growing and vital. Carnegie Mellon's participation with Allderdice has been an overall great success.

Complete sequence of the first chimera genome constructed by cloning the whole genome of Synechocystis strain PCC6803 into the Bacillus subtilis 168 genome.

PubMed

Watanabe, Satoru; Shiwa, Yuh; Itaya, Mitsuhiro; Yoshikawa, Hirofumi

2012-12-01

Genome synthesis of existing or designed genomes is made feasible by the first successful cloning of a cyanobacterium, Synechocystis PCC6803, in Gram-positive, endospore-forming Bacillus subtilis. Whole-genome sequence analysis of the isolate and parental B. subtilis strains provides clues for identifying single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the 2 complete bacterial genomes in one cell.

Evaluation of Safety, Quality and Productivity in Construction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Usmen, M. A.; Vilnitis, M.

2015-11-01

This paper examines the success indicators of construction projects, safety, quality and productivity, in terms of their implications and impacts during and after construction. First safety is considered during construction with a focus on hazard identification and the prevention of occupational accidents and injuries on worksites. The legislation mandating safety programs, training and compliance with safety standards is presented and discussed. Consideration of safety at the design stage is emphasized. Building safety and the roles of building codes in prevention of structural failures are also covered in the paper together with factors affecting building failures and methods for their prevention. Quality is introduced in the paper from the perspective of modern total quality management. Concepts of quality management, quality control, quality assurance and Six Sigma and how they relate to building quality and structural integrity are discussed with examples. Finally, productivity concepts are presented with emphasis on effective project management to minimize loss of productivity, complimented by lean construction and lean Six Sigma principles. The paper concludes by synthesizing the relationships between safety, quality and productivity.

Center for Space Construction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Su, Renjeng

1998-01-01

The Center for Space Construction (CSC) at University of Colorado at Boulder is one of eight University Space Engineering Research Centers established by NASA in 1988. The mission of the Center is to conduct research into space technology and to directly contribute to space engineering education. The Center reports to the Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences and resides in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences. The College has a long and successful track record of cultivating multi-disciplinary research and education programs. The Center for Space Construction represents prominent evidence of this record. The basic concept on which the Center was founded is the in-space construction of large space systems, such as space stations, interplanetary space vehicles, and extraterrestrial space structures. Since 1993, the scope of CSC research has evolved to include the design and construction of all spacecraft, large and small. With the broadened scope our research projects seek to impact the technological basis for spacecraft such as remote sensing satellites, communication satellites and other special-purpose spacecraft, as well as large space platforms. A summary of accomplishments, including student participation and degrees awarded, during the contract period is presented.

Constructions of Success in Academia: An Early Career Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sutherland, Kathryn A.

2017-01-01

Expectations around success in academia vary, and early career academics often receive conflicting messages about what they should concentrate on to achieve promotion or tenure. Taking a social constructionist approach, this paper considers the constructs of objective and subjective career success in academia and shares the perspectives of early…

Modelling the effect of changing design fineness ratio of an airship on its aerodynamic lift and drag performance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jalasabri, J.; Romli, F. I.; Harmin, M. Y.

2017-12-01

In developing successful airship designs, it is important to fully understand the effect of the design on the performance of the airship. The aim of this research work is to establish the trend for effects of design fineness ratio of an airship towards its aerodynamic performance. An approximate computer-aided design (CAD) model of the Atlant-100 airship is constructed using CATIA software and it is applied in the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation analysis using Star-CCM+ software. In total, 36 simulation runs are executed with different combinations of values for design fineness ratio, altitude and velocity. The obtained simulation results are analyzed using MINITAB to capture the effects relationship on lift and drag coefficients. Based on the results, it is concluded that the design fineness ratio does have a significant impact on the generated aerodynamic lift and drag forces on the airship.

Conservative strategy-based ensemble surrogate model for optimal groundwater remediation design at DNAPLs-contaminated sites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ouyang, Qi; Lu, Wenxi; Lin, Jin; Deng, Wenbing; Cheng, Weiguo

2017-08-01

The surrogate-based simulation-optimization techniques are frequently used for optimal groundwater remediation design. When this technique is used, surrogate errors caused by surrogate-modeling uncertainty may lead to generation of infeasible designs. In this paper, a conservative strategy that pushes the optimal design into the feasible region was used to address surrogate-modeling uncertainty. In addition, chance-constrained programming (CCP) was adopted to compare with the conservative strategy in addressing this uncertainty. Three methods, multi-gene genetic programming (MGGP), Kriging (KRG) and support vector regression (SVR), were used to construct surrogate models for a time-consuming multi-phase flow model. To improve the performance of the surrogate model, ensemble surrogates were constructed based on combinations of different stand-alone surrogate models. The results show that: (1) the surrogate-modeling uncertainty was successfully addressed by the conservative strategy, which means that this method is promising for addressing surrogate-modeling uncertainty. (2) The ensemble surrogate model that combines MGGP with KRG showed the most favorable performance, which indicates that this ensemble surrogate can utilize both stand-alone surrogate models to improve the performance of the surrogate model.

Silicon micro-fabricated miniature polymer electrolyte fuel cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kelley, Shawn Christopher

2000-10-01

The present thesis relates the design, fabrication, and testing of a unique type of silicon-based, miniature fuel cell. The fuel cell electrodes were constructed using standard silicon micro-fabrication techniques, and were used to construct miniature polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs) using NafionRTM. During testing, methanol and oxygen were the common reactants, but hydrogen and oxygen could be used as well. A novel form of an electrodeposited Pt:Ru alloy was developed for use as a methanol electrooxidation catalyst in the mini-PEFCs. An optimized mini-PEFC design was developed, tested, and compared with large PEFCs on the basis of performance. Mini-PEFC performance was equivalent to that of large PEFCs when scaled for active-area, but was limited by the function of the oxygen electrode. The rate of methanol crossover in a methanol/oxygen mini-PEFC was predicted using Fick's first law and the electrode chip feed-hole area. It was shown that the present mini-PEFC design could function as a fuel cell material test structure. Additionally, the mini-PEFCs were tested as two-cell stacks and as methanol sensors. The miniature, silicon-based PEFCs developed here successfully incorporate the essential aspects of a large PEFC in a smaller, simpler design.

Design and construction of hierarchical TiO2 nanorod arrays by combining layer-by-layer and hydrothermal crystallization techniques for electrochromic application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Yongbo; Li, Xiaomin; Bi, Zhijie; He, Xiaoli; Li, Guanjie; Xu, Xiaoke; Gao, Xiangdong

2018-05-01

The hierarchical TiO2 (H-TiO2) nanorod arrays (NRAs) composed of single-crystalline nanorods and nanocrystals were finely designed and successfully constructed for electrochromic (EC) application. By combining layer-by-layer (LBL) method and hydrothermal crystallization technique, the superfine nanocrystals (5-7 nm), which can provide abundant active sites and facilitate ion insertion/extraction during EC reactions, were uniformly and conformally assembled on the surface of single-crystalline TiO2 (SC-TiO2) NRAs. The as-formed H-TiO2 NRAs integrate the advantages of one-dimensional NRAs with fast kinetics and superfine nanocrystals with high ion capacity, showing highly enhanced EC performance. Large optical contrast (40.3%), shorter coloring/bleaching time (22/4 s), high coloration efficiency (11.2 cm2 C-1), and excellent cycling stability can be achieved in H-TiO2 NRAs, superior to the pristine SC-TiO2 NRAs and nanocrystalline TiO2 films. This work provides a feasible and well-designed strategy to explore high-performance materials for EC application.

Thermal design of the hard x-ray imager and the soft gamma-ray detector onboard ASTRO-H

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Noda, Hirofumi; Nakazawa, Kazuhiro; Makishima, Kazuo; Iwata, Naoko; Ogawa, Hiroyuki; Ohta, Masayuki; Sato, Goro; Kawaharada, Madoka; Watanabe, Shin; Kokubun, Motohide; Takahashi, Tadayuki; Ohno, Masanori; Fukazawa, Yasushi; Tajima, Hiroyasu; Uchiyama, Hideki; Ito, Shuji; Fukuzawa, Keita

2014-07-01

The Hard X-ray Imager and the Soft Gamma-ray Detector, onboard the 6th Japanese X-ray satellite ASTRO-H, aim at unprecedentedly-sensitive observations in the 5-80 keV and 40-600 keV bands, respectively. Because their main sensors are composed of a number of semi-conductor devices, which need to be operated in a temperature of -20 to -15°C, heat generated in the sensors must be efficiently transported outwards by thermal conduction. For this purpose, we performed thermal design, with the following three steps. First, we additionally included thermally-conductive parts, copper poles and graphite sheets. Second, constructing a thermal mathematical model of the sensors, we estimated temperature distributions in thermal equilibria. Since the model had rather large uncertainties in contact thermal conductions, an accurate thermal dummy was constructed as our final step. Vacuum measurement with the dummy successfully reduced the conductance uncertainties. With these steps, we confirmed that our thermal design of the main sensors satisfies the temperature requirement.

Design, construction and validation of a portable care system for the daily telerehabiliatation of gait.

PubMed

Giansanti, Daniele; Morelli, Sandra; Maccioni, Giovanni; Brocco, Monica

2013-10-01

When designing a complete system of daily-telerehabilitation it should be borne in mind that properly designed methodologies should be furnished for patients to execute specific motion tasks and for care givers to assess the relevant parameters. Whether in hospital or at home, the system should feature two basic elements: (a) instrumented and walking aids or supports, (b) equipment for the assessment of parameters. Being gait the focus, the idea was to design, construct and validate - as an alternative to the complex and expensive instruments currently used - a simple, portable kit that may be easily interfaced/integrated with the most common mechanical tools used in motion rehabilitation (instrumented walkways, aids, supports), with feedback to both patient for self-monitoring and trainer/therapist (present or remote) for clinical reporting. The proposed system consists of: one step-counter, three couples of photo-emitter detectors, one central unit for collecting and processing the telemetrically transmitted data; a software interface on a dedicated PC and a network adapter. The system has been successfully validated in a clinical application on two groups of 16 subjects at the 1st and 2nd level of the Tinetti test. The degree of acceptance by subjects and care-givers was high. The system was also successfully compared with an Inertial Measurement Unit, a de facto standard. The portable kit can be used with different rehabilitation tools and different ground rugosity. The advantages are: (a) very low costs when compared with optoelectronic solutions and other portable solutions; (b) very high accuracy, also for subjects with imbalance problems; (c) good compatibility with any rehabilitative tool. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development and Performance of the Alaska Transportable Array Posthole Broadband Seismic Station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aderhold, K.; Enders, M.; Miner, J.; Bierma, R. M.; Bloomquist, D.; Theis, J.; Busby, R. W.

2017-12-01

The final stations of the Alaska Transportable Array (ATA) will be constructed in 2017, completing the full footprint of 280 new and existing broadband seismic stations stretching across 19 degrees of latitude from western Alaska to western Canada. Through significant effort in planning, site reconnaissance, permitting and the considerable and concerted effort of field crews, the IRIS Alaska TA team is on schedule to successfully complete the construction of 194 new stations and upgrades at 28 existing stations over four field seasons. The station design and installation method was developed over the course of several years, leveraging the experience of the L48 TA deployments and existing network operators in Alaska as well as incorporating newly engineered components and procedures. A purpose-built lightweight drill was designed and fabricated to facilitate the construction of shallow boreholes to incorporate newly available posthole seismometers. This allowed for the development of a streamlined system of procedures to manufacture uniform seismic stations with minimal crew and minimal time required at each station location. A new station can typically be constructed in a single day with a four-person field crew. The ATA utilizes a hammer-drilled, cased posthole emplacement method adapted to the remote and harsh working environment of Alaska. The same emplacement design is implemented in all ground conditions to preserve uniformity across the array and eliminate the need for specialized mechanical equipment. All components for station construction are ideally suited for transport via helicopter, and can be adapted to utilize more traditional methods of transportation when available. This emplacement design delivers high quality data when embedded in bedrock or permafrost, reaching the low noise levels of benchmark permanent global broadband stations especially at long periods over 70 seconds. The TA will operate the network of real-time stations through at least 2019, with service trips planned on a "as needed" basis to continue providing greater than 95% data return.

Black Creek Hydro Project high-line cable penstock installation

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

Fonnesbeck, K.C.; Ellicock, R.

1995-12-31

The Black Creek Hydro Project is a remote, high head, run-of-river, small hydro project located near Seattle, Washington. The comparatively small size of this project was not indicative of the difficulties and challenges presented to the design engineers and construction contractors involved in it`s completion. The most difficult of these challenges was the design and installation of a buried penstock on very steep and heavily forested terrain. This paper will concentrate on construction of the Black Creek penstock, and specifically, that portion of the penstock which required innovative application of a suspended {open_quotes}high-line{close_quotes} cable operation as used is commonly formore » logging of steep slopes. For this project, the cable installation and yarder equipment were utilized for a variety of purposes including, clearing and logging of the slope, to secure heavy equipment and machinery required to excavate the penstock trench, transport and placement of the individual pipe joints and finally to encase the pipe with lean concrete. The successful application of this approach contributed greatly to the timely completion of the project. This paper will offer background information on the selection and design of the cable Installation as well as highlights of the solutions that were developed to overcome the design and construction problems encountered. Finally, cost data will be offered to those who may be faced with similar undertakings caused by the steep and difficult sites attracting more attention in present days.« less

Artificial Intelligence In Computational Fluid Dynamics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vogel, Alison Andrews

1991-01-01

Paper compares four first-generation artificial-intelligence (Al) software systems for computational fluid dynamics. Includes: Expert Cooling Fan Design System (EXFAN), PAN AIR Knowledge System (PAKS), grid-adaptation program MITOSIS, and Expert Zonal Grid Generation (EZGrid). Focuses on knowledge-based ("expert") software systems. Analyzes intended tasks, kinds of knowledge possessed, magnitude of effort required to codify knowledge, how quickly constructed, performances, and return on investment. On basis of comparison, concludes Al most successful when applied to well-formulated problems solved by classifying or selecting preenumerated solutions. In contrast, application of Al to poorly understood or poorly formulated problems generally results in long development time and large investment of effort, with no guarantee of success.

Biosensor-based engineering of biosynthetic pathways

DOE PAGES

Rogers, Jameson K.; Taylor, Noah D.; Church, George M.

2016-03-18

Biosynthetic pathways provide an enzymatic route from inexpensive renewable resources to valuable metabolic products such as pharmaceuticals and plastics. However, designing these pathways is challenging due to the complexities of biology. Advances in the design and construction of genetic variants has enabled billions of cells, each possessing a slightly different metabolic design, to be rapidly generated. However, our ability to measure the quality of these designs lags by several orders of magnitude. Recent research has enabled cells to report their own success in chemical production through the use of genetically encoded biosensors. A new engineering discipline is emerging around themore » creation and application of biosensors. Biosensors, implemented in selections and screens to identify productive cells, are paving the way for a new era of biotechnological progress.« less

The American nuclear construction craftsmen: Will we be ready to build again

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

Bravo, R.

1990-01-01

The present state of nuclear plant maintenance and operations support reflects sexual, ethnic, and radical integration; continued educational advances; some computer literacy; mixed trades in maintenance; detailed training for maintenance and operations work in the operating plant; plant safety awareness and respect; need for top-quality, take the time to do it right mentality; and planning. With no new nuclear construction, what will be the specific talents, focus, and contributions that the craftsmen can be expected to bring to the project To be prepared to successfully manage the next generation of nuclear plant construction, the industry must be acutely aware ofmore » the needs of the labor pool. To be aware of the needs requires an intimate knowledge of the present state of the craft talent, the changed expectations of their contributions, and the effects of new technologies, materials, methods, and individuals that will be used to design and build.« less

A Goal Seeking Strategy for Constructing Systems from Alternative Components

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Valentine, Mark E.

1999-01-01

This paper describes a methodology to efficiently construct feasible systems then modify feasible systems to meet successive goals by selecting from alternative components, a problem recognized to be n-p complete. The methodology provides a means to catalog and model alternative components. A presented system modeling Structure is robust enough to model a wide variety of systems and provides a means to compare and evaluate alternative systems. These models act as input to a methodology for selecting alternative components to construct feasible systems and modify feasible systems to meet design goals and objectives. The presented algorithm's ability to find a restricted solution, as defined by a unique set of requirements, is demonstrated against an exhaustive search of a sample of proposed shuttle modifications. The utility of the algorithm is demonstrated by comparing results from the algorithm with results from three NASA shuttle evolution studies using their value systems and assumptions.

A MEMS-based super fast dew point hygrometer—construction and medical applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jachowicz, Ryszard S.; Weremczuk, Jerzy; Paczesny, Daniel; Tarapata, Grzegorz

2009-12-01

The paper shows how MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical system) technology and a modified principle of fast temperature control (by heat injection instead of careful control of cooling) can considerably improve the dynamic parameters of dew point hygrometers. Some aspects of MEMS-type integrated sensor construction and technology, whole measurement system design, the control algorithm to run the system as well as empirical dynamic parameters from the tests are discussed too. The hygrometer can easily obtain five to six measurements per second with an uncertainty of less than 0.3 K. The meter range is between -10 °C and 40 °C dew point. In the second part of the paper (section 2), two different successful applications in medicine based on fast humidity measurements have been discussed. Some specific constructions of these super fast dew point hygrometers based on a MEMS sensor as well as limited empirical results from clinical tests have been reported too.

Austrian Guideline for Geomechanical Design of Tunnels - Necessity for Cooperation between Geologists, Geotechnical and Civil Engineers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwarz, Ludwig; Eder, Stefan; Mattle, Bruno; Hammer, Helmut

Rising competitive pressure in the construction business, ever tighter schedules being set up by the clients and ongoing disputes between engineering geologists and civil engineers about the role of geotechnical engineers have - in the last few years - led to increasing discussions between engineers and geologists about the allocation of competences during the design process of underground structures. In the course of this debate, which is often polemic and anything but objective, important information is quite frequently lost - a development which may not only be to the disadvantage of the client but which may also do damage to the reputation of the professions involved. The design procedure of the new Austrian guideline for the geomechanical design of underground structures requires a close collaboration of geologists, geotechnical and civil engineers, yet without allocating competences. While preparing the tender documents for the first construction lot of the Northern feeder line of the Brenner base tunnel, the necessity of a close cooperation of the involved professions became apparent due to the complex geological situation encountered in the project area and the enormous amount of data available. Despite these difficult boundary conditions, the successful application of the guideline was last but not least the result of the joint efforts of the multidisciplinary design team.

Learning sorting algorithms through visualization construction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cetin, Ibrahim; Andrews-Larson, Christine

2016-01-01

Recent increased interest in computational thinking poses an important question to researchers: What are the best ways to teach fundamental computing concepts to students? Visualization is suggested as one way of supporting student learning. This mixed-method study aimed to (i) examine the effect of instruction in which students constructed visualizations on students' programming achievement and students' attitudes toward computer programming, and (ii) explore how this kind of instruction supports students' learning according to their self-reported experiences in the course. The study was conducted with 58 pre-service teachers who were enrolled in their second programming class. They expect to teach information technology and computing-related courses at the primary and secondary levels. An embedded experimental model was utilized as a research design. Students in the experimental group were given instruction that required students to construct visualizations related to sorting, whereas students in the control group viewed pre-made visualizations. After the instructional intervention, eight students from each group were selected for semi-structured interviews. The results showed that the intervention based on visualization construction resulted in significantly better acquisition of sorting concepts. However, there was no significant difference between the groups with respect to students' attitudes toward computer programming. Qualitative data analysis indicated that students in the experimental group constructed necessary abstractions through their engagement in visualization construction activities. The authors of this study argue that the students' active engagement in the visualization construction activities explains only one side of students' success. The other side can be explained through the instructional approach, constructionism in this case, used to design instruction. The conclusions and implications of this study can be used by researchers and instructors dealing with computational thinking.

Planning and design considerations in karst terrain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fischer, J. A.; Greene, R. W.; Ottoson, R. S.; Graham, T. C.

1988-10-01

This article discusses the various steps that the authors feel are necessary to the successful progression of an engineered project sited in karst terrain. The procedures require a multidisciplined approach with liaison and cooperation among the various parties to the project. Initially, the prospective owner must have sufficient understanding of the potential engineering problems to incorporate the engineering geologist into the early stages of any planned acquisition. The first step in an investigation should include a review of the available geologic information, aerial photo interpretation, consultation with the State Geological Survey, and a geologic reconnaissance of the prospective site and surrounding area. A go-no-go decision as to purchase can often been made at an early time. Although, in some instances, more study is needed for a particularly intriguing property. The second stage should consider the various planning alternatives that are feasible based upon the limited available information. At this stage planning/purchase decisions can be made as to purchasing options, value of the property, design constraints, and the possible economic penalties that could be associated with the potential site construction. Various planning and construction alternatives should be considered in this phase of the work. The third stage should include a site investigation program of moderate size, consisting of test pits and/or exploratory borings. The borings should be drilled using water as the drilling fluid, with an experienced crew and qualified technical inspection. The authors find the use of geophysical techniques can be extremely misleading unless used in conjunction with exploratory drilling. Successful evaluations using geophysical procedures occur only under ideal conditions. The geotechnical viability of the plan and preliminary design should be investigated in the fourth phase. Additionally, the physical parameters required for the design of structures founded atop cavities can be obtained at this time. Several support schemes which incorporate cavity roof thickness, rock strength, and cavity space are discussed. Possible construction procedures include excavation and dental concrete, grouting, piers or piles to sound rock, or moving to another area. The relative economies of these procedures are discussed in relation to the size and depth of the soil or rock cavity, possible future cavity formation, magnitude of loading and acceptable safety factors.

A Partial Theory of Executive Succession.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thiemann, Francis C.

This study has two purposes: (1) To construct a partial theory of succession, and (2) to utilize a method of theory construction which combines some of the concepts of Hans Zetterberg with the principles of formal symbolic logic. A bibliography on succession in complex organizations with entries on descriptive and empirical studies from various…

Southeast geysers effluent pipeline project. Final report

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

Dellinger, M.

1998-01-15

The project concept originated in 1990 with the convergence of two problems: (1) a need for augmented injection to mitigate declining reservoir productivity at the Geysers; and (2) a need for a new method of wastewater disposal for Lake County communities near the The Geysers. A public/private partnership of Geysers operators and the Lake County Sanitation District (LACOSAN) was formed in 1991 to conduct a series of engineering, environmental, and financing studies of transporting treated wastewater effluent from the communities to the southeast portion of The Geysers via a 29-mile pipeline. By 1994, these evaluations concluded that the concept wasmore » feasible and the stakeholders proceeded to formally develop the project, including pipeline and associated facilities design; preparation of an environmental impact statement; negotiation of construction and operating agreements; and assembly of $45 million in construction funding from the stakeholders, and from state and federal agencies with related program goals. The project development process culminated in the system`s dedication on October 16, 1997. As of this writing, all project components have been constructed or installed, successfully tested in compliance with design specifications, and are operating satisfactorily.« less

Development of a Multi-Point Microwave Interferometry (MPMI) Method

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

Specht, Paul Elliott; Cooper, Marcia A.; Jilek, Brook Anton

2015-09-01

A multi-point microwave interferometer (MPMI) concept was developed for non-invasively tracking a shock, reaction, or detonation front in energetic media. Initially, a single-point, heterodyne microwave interferometry capability was established. The design, construction, and verification of the single-point interferometer provided a knowledge base for the creation of the MPMI concept. The MPMI concept uses an electro-optic (EO) crystal to impart a time-varying phase lag onto a laser at the microwave frequency. Polarization optics converts this phase lag into an amplitude modulation, which is analyzed in a heterodyne interfer- ometer to detect Doppler shifts in the microwave frequency. A version of themore » MPMI was constructed to experimentally measure the frequency of a microwave source through the EO modulation of a laser. The successful extraction of the microwave frequency proved the underlying physical concept of the MPMI design, and highlighted the challenges associated with the longer microwave wavelength. The frequency measurements made with the current equipment contained too much uncertainty for an accurate velocity measurement. Potential alterations to the current construction are presented to improve the quality of the measured signal and enable multiple accurate velocity measurements.« less

Role to Be Played by Independent Geotechnical Supervision in the Foundation for Bridge Construction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sobala, Dariusz; Rybak, Jarosław

2017-10-01

Some remarks concerning the necessity of employing an independent and over all ethical geotechnical survey were presented in the paper. Starting from the design phase, through the whole construction process, the importance of geotechnical engineer is stated in legal acts. Numerous testing technologies serve for the calibration of geotechnical technologies and allow for confirming the quality and capacity of piles. Special emphasis was payed to the involvement of scientifical and research institutions which can not only serve services but also can postprocess and methodize collected data. Such databases enable for new codes, methods and recommendations. Selection of deep foundations for bridge-type structures is most often dependent on complex geotechnical conditions, concentrated loads and constraints for pier displacements. Besides the last ones, prior to more common introduction of the design-construct system, could be a convenient justification for design engineer, who imposed deep foundation because he did not want or was not able to estimate the effect of pier settlement on civil engineering structure. The paper provides some notes about the need to engage a geotechnical supervising service of high competency and ethical quality during engineering and construction stages of foundations for bridge-type structures where legal requirements are of special consideration. Successive stages of projects are reviewed and research methods used for current calibration of geotechnical technologies and verification of geotechnical work quality are analysed. Special attention is given to potential involvement of independent R&D institutions which, apart from rendering specific services, also collect and systemize the research results thus enabling, in the long term, to revise engineering standards, instructions and guidelines.

A multi-sensor oceanographic measurement system for coastal environments

USGS Publications Warehouse

Martini, Marinna A.; Strahle, William J.

1993-01-01

An instrument system has been developed for long-term sediment transport studies that uses a modular design to combine off the shelf components into a complete and flexible package. A common data storage format is used in each instrument system so that the same hardware can be assembled in different ways to address specific scientific studies with minimal engineering support and modification. Three systems have been constructed and successfully deployed to date in two different coastal environments.

Multi-Scale Experiments to Evaluate Mobility Control Methods for Enhancing the Sweep Efficiency of Injected Subsurface Remediation Amendments

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-08-01

petroleum industry. Moreover, heterogeneity control strategies can be applied to improve the efficiency of a variety of in situ remediation technologies...conditions that differ significantly from those found in environmental systems . Therefore many of the design criteria used by the petroleum industry for...were helpful in constructing numerical models in up-scaled systems (2-D tanks). The UTCHEM model was able to successfully simulate 2-D experimental

A fully automated digitally controlled 30-inch telescope

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Colgate, S. A.; Moore, E. P.; Carlson, R.

1975-01-01

A fully automated 30-inch (75-cm) telescope has been successfully designed and constructed from a military surplus Nike-Ajax radar mount. Novel features include: closed-loop operation between mountain telescope and campus computer 30 km apart via microwave link, a TV-type sensor which is photon shot-noise limited, a special lightweight primary mirror, and a stepping motor drive capable of slewing and settling one degree in one second or a radian in fifteen seconds.

Design and implementation of dynamic hybrid Honeypot network

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qiao, Peili; Hu, Shan-Shan; Zhai, Ji-Qiang

2013-05-01

The method of constructing a dynamic and self-adaptive virtual network is suggested to puzzle adversaries, delay and divert attacks, exhaust attacker resources and collect attacking information. The concepts of Honeypot and Honeyd, which is the frame of virtual Honeypot are introduced. The techniques of network scanning including active fingerprint recognition are analyzed. Dynamic virtual network system is designed and implemented. A virtual network similar to real network topology is built according to the collected messages from real environments in this system. By doing this, the system can perplex the attackers when Hackers attack and can further analyze and research the attacks. The tests to this system prove that this design can successfully simulate real network environment and can be used in network security analysis.

Teaching Your First Astro 101 Course: What They Don't Tell You

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bruning, D.

2014-07-01

Designing your Astro 101 course should not be about what topics you can omit but should be a thoughtful process that regards your fundamental teaching goals and which topics and skills promote those goals. Establishing goals and assessments that lead to measurable student outcomes enable one to more constructively design a learning experience for students. Just as any good novel has multiple story lines that weave throughout the book, your course has several narratives that wind through different topics and help to tie goals together. Sharing this underlying organizational structure of your course with students helps them to connect ideas and be more successful.

Solid Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell Technology Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1980-01-01

Work is reported on phase 5 of the Solid Polymer Electrolyte (SPE) Fuel Cell Technology Development program. The SPE fuel cell life and performance was established at temperatures, pressures, and current densities significantly higher than those previously demonstrated in sub-scale hardware. Operation of single-cell Buildup No. 1 to establish life capabilities of the full-scale hardware was continued. A multi-cell full-scale unit (Buildup No. 2) was designed, fabricated, and test evaluated laying the groundwork for the construction of a reactor stack. A reactor stack was then designed, fabricated, and successfully test-evaluated to demonstrate the readiness of SPE fuel cell technology for future space applications.

A new concept in denture design for patients with few remaining teeth: case reports.

PubMed

Ling, B C

1995-12-01

This article presents an alternative to the conventional swing-lock de sign of removable partial denture construction. It incorporates the principles of sectional dentures as well as the swing-lock concept and overcomes some of the limitations of conventional swing-lock dentures. I-bar struts and stainless steel keepers form part of the first section of the denture. The second part of the denture consists of the denture base with the artificial teeth and magnetic retention units. This system has been used successfully in a number of patients whose situations were suitable for the conventional swing-lock design.

Monte Carlo simulations of neutron-scattering instruments using McStas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nielsen, K.; Lefmann, K.

2000-06-01

Monte Carlo simulations have become an essential tool for improving the performance of neutron-scattering instruments, since the level of sophistication in the design of instruments is defeating purely analytical methods. The program McStas, being developed at Risø National Laboratory, includes an extension language that makes it easy to adapt it to the particular requirements of individual instruments, and thus provides a powerful and flexible tool for constructing such simulations. McStas has been successfully applied in such areas as neutron guide design, flux optimization, non-Gaussian resolution functions of triple-axis spectrometers, and time-focusing in time-of-flight instruments.

Large-Scale 3D Printing: The Way Forward

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jassmi, Hamad Al; Najjar, Fady Al; Ismail Mourad, Abdel-Hamid

2018-03-01

Research on small-scale 3D printing has rapidly evolved, where numerous industrial products have been tested and successfully applied. Nonetheless, research on large-scale 3D printing, directed to large-scale applications such as construction and automotive manufacturing, yet demands a great a great deal of efforts. Large-scale 3D printing is considered an interdisciplinary topic and requires establishing a blended knowledge base from numerous research fields including structural engineering, materials science, mechatronics, software engineering, artificial intelligence and architectural engineering. This review article summarizes key topics of relevance to new research trends on large-scale 3D printing, particularly pertaining (1) technological solutions of additive construction (i.e. the 3D printers themselves), (2) materials science challenges, and (3) new design opportunities.

Genome Partitioner: A web tool for multi-level partitioning of large-scale DNA constructs for synthetic biology applications.

PubMed

Christen, Matthias; Del Medico, Luca; Christen, Heinz; Christen, Beat

2017-01-01

Recent advances in lower-cost DNA synthesis techniques have enabled new innovations in the field of synthetic biology. Still, efficient design and higher-order assembly of genome-scale DNA constructs remains a labor-intensive process. Given the complexity, computer assisted design tools that fragment large DNA sequences into fabricable DNA blocks are needed to pave the way towards streamlined assembly of biological systems. Here, we present the Genome Partitioner software implemented as a web-based interface that permits multi-level partitioning of genome-scale DNA designs. Without the need for specialized computing skills, biologists can submit their DNA designs to a fully automated pipeline that generates the optimal retrosynthetic route for higher-order DNA assembly. To test the algorithm, we partitioned a 783 kb Caulobacter crescentus genome design. We validated the partitioning strategy by assembling a 20 kb test segment encompassing a difficult to synthesize DNA sequence. Successful assembly from 1 kb subblocks into the 20 kb segment highlights the effectiveness of the Genome Partitioner for reducing synthesis costs and timelines for higher-order DNA assembly. The Genome Partitioner is broadly applicable to translate DNA designs into ready to order sequences that can be assembled with standardized protocols, thus offering new opportunities to harness the diversity of microbial genomes for synthetic biology applications. The Genome Partitioner web tool can be accessed at https://christenlab.ethz.ch/GenomePartitioner.

Fibrous composite material for textile heart valve design: in vitro assessment.

PubMed

Amri, Amna; Laroche, Gaetan; Chakfe, Nabil; Heim, Frederic

2018-04-17

With over 150,000 implantations performed over the world, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has become a surgical technique, which largely competes with open surgery valve replacement for an increasing number of patients. The success of the procedure favors the research toward synthetic valve leaflet materials as an alternative to biological tissues, whose durability remains unknown. In particular, fibrous constructions have recently proven to be durable in vivo over a 6-month period of time in animal sheep models. Exaggerated fibrotic tissue formation remains, however, a critical issue to be addressed. This work investigates the design of a composite fibrous construction combining a woven polyethylene terephthalate (PET) layer and a non-woven PET mat, which are expected to provide, respectively, strength and appropriate topography toward limited fibrotic tissue ingrowth. For this purpose, a specific equipment has been developed to produce non-woven PET mats made from fibers with small diameter. These mats were assembled with woven PET substrates using various assembling techniques in order to obtain hybrid fibrous constructions. The physical and mechanical properties of the obtained materials were assessed and valve samples were manufactured to be tested in vitro for hydrodynamic performances. The results show that the composite fibrous construction is characterized by properties suitable for the valve leaflet function, but the durability of the assembling is however limited under accelerated cyclic loading.

Self-synchronizing Schlieren photography and interferometry for the visualization of unsteady transonic flows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kadlec, R.

1979-01-01

The use of self synchronizing stroboscopic Schlieren and laser interferometer systems to obtain quantitative space time measurements of distinguished flow surfaces, steakline patterns, and the density field of two dimensional flows that exhibit a periodic content was investigated. A large field single path stroboscopic Schlieren system was designed, constructed and successfully applied to visualize four periodic flows: near wake behind an oscillating airfoil; edge tone sound generation; 2-D planar wall jet; and axisymmetric pulsed sonic jet. This visualization technique provides an effective means of studying quasi-periodic flows in real time. The image on the viewing screen is a spatial signal average of the coherent periodic motion rather than a single realization, the high speed motion of a quasi-periodic flow can be reconstructed by recording photographs of the flow at different fixed time delays in one cycle. The preliminary design and construction of a self synchronizing stroboscopic laser interferometer with a modified Mach-Zehnder optical system is also reported.

The new VLT-DSM M2 unit: construction and electromechanical testing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gallieni, Daniele; Biasi, Roberto

2013-12-01

We present the design, construction and validation of the new M2 unit of the VLT Deformable Secondary Mirror. In the framework of the Adaptive Optics Facility program, ADS and Microgate designed a new secondary unit which replaces the current Dornier one. The M2 is composed by the mechanical structure, a new hexapod positioner and the Deformable Secondary Mirror unit.The DSM is based on the well proven contactless, voice coil motor technology that has been already successfully implemented in the MMT, LBT and Magellan adaptive secondaries, and is considered a promising technical choice for the E-ELT M4 and the GMT ASM. The VLT adaptive unit has been fully integrated and, before starting the optical calibration, has completed the electromechanical characterization, focused on the dynamic performance. With respect to the previous units we introduced several improvements, both in hardware and control architecture that allowed achieving a significant enhancement of the system dynamics and reduction of power consumption.

Cryogenic System for J-Parc Neutrino Superconducting Magnet Beam LINE—DESIGN, Construction and Performance Test

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Makida, Y.; Ohhata, H.; Okamura, T.; Suzuki, S.; Araoka, O.; Ogitsu, T.; Kimura, N.; Nakamoto, T.; Sasaki, K.; Kaneda, S.; Takahashi, T.; Ito, A.; Nagami, M.; Kumaki, T.; Nakashima, T.

2010-04-01

A helium cryogenic plant has been constructed in the proton accelerator research complex, J-PARC, to cool a string of superconducting magnets in the neutrino beam line since 2005. It consists of a screw compressor with a capacity of 160 g/s at 1.4 MPa, a 1.5 kW refrigerator, a centrifugal SHE pump with a flow rate of 300 g/s and peripherals. After system integration, performance tests have been carried out. In a preliminary cooling test without magnets, the cryogenic system attained a cooling capacity of 522 W by circulating supercritical helium flow of 300 g/s at 0.4 MPa and at 4.5 K. Afterwards a full system test with the magnets was carried out. The magnets were successfully charged up to an ultimate current of 5000 A beyond a nominal current of 4400 A. This paper describes the plant design and the result of performance measurements.

A Compartmentalized Out-of-Equilibrium Enzymatic Reaction Network for Sustained Autonomous Movement

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Every living cell is a compartmentalized out-of-equilibrium system exquisitely able to convert chemical energy into function. In order to maintain homeostasis, the flux of metabolites is tightly controlled by regulatory enzymatic networks. A crucial prerequisite for the development of lifelike materials is the construction of synthetic systems with compartmentalized reaction networks that maintain out-of-equilibrium function. Here, we aim for autonomous movement as an example of the conversion of feedstock molecules into function. The flux of the conversion is regulated by a rationally designed enzymatic reaction network with multiple feedforward loops. By compartmentalizing the network into bowl-shaped nanocapsules the output of the network is harvested as kinetic energy. The entire system shows sustained and tunable microscopic motion resulting from the conversion of multiple external substrates. The successful compartmentalization of an out-of-equilibrium reaction network is a major first step in harnessing the design principles of life for construction of adaptive and internally regulated lifelike systems. PMID:27924313

Groundwater contamination from waste management sites: The interaction between risk-based engineering design and regulatory policy: 2. Results

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Massmann, Joel; Freeze, R. Allan

1987-02-01

The risk-cost-benefit analysis developed in the companion paper (J. Massmann and R. A. Freeze, this issue) is here applied to (1) an assessment of the relative worth of containment-construction activities, site-exploration activities, and monitoring activities as components of a design strategy for the owner/operator of a waste management facility; (2) an assessment of alternative policy options available to a regulatory agency; and (3) a case history. Sensitivity analyses designed to address the first issue show that the allocation of resources by the owner/operator is sensitive to the stochastic parameters used to describe the hydraulic conductivity field at a site. For the cases analyzed, the installation of a dense monitoring network is of less value to the owner/operator than a more conservative containment design. Sensitivity analyses designed to address the second issue suggest that from a regulatory perspective, design standards should be more effective than performance standards in reducing risk, and design specifications on the containment structure should be more effective than those on the monitoring network. Performance bonds posted before construction have a greater potential to influence design than prospective penalties to be imposed at the time of failure. Siting on low-conductivity deposits is a more effective method of risk reduction than any form of regulatory influence. Results of the case history indicate that the methodology can be successfully applied at field sites.

Critical Elements for Successful Implementation and Adoption of Authentic Scientific Research Programs: Lessons Learned from NASA's Mars Student Imaging Project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klug Boonstra, S.; Swann, J.; Boonstra, D.; Manfredi, L.; Christensen, P. R.

2016-12-01

Recent research identifies the most effective learning as active, engaged learning in which students interact with phenomena, other students, and the teacher/leader to derive meaning and construct understanding of their surroundings. "Similarly, an engaging and effective science education goes well beyond the low-level factual recall that is emphasized in many science classes. It must develop the skills that students need to solve complex problems, work in teams, make and recognize evidence-based arguments, and interpret and communicate complex information" (emphasis added). Authentic science research projects provide active, engaged learning in which students interact with authentic science data in an authentic problem-solving context to derive meaning and construct understanding of the world. In formal (and many informal) settings, the teacher/leader is effectively the gatekeeper who determines the learning experiences in which the students will participate. From our experience of nearly a decade and a half of authentic science programming for 5thgrade through early college students working with NASA Mars data, supporting and enabling the teacher is perhaps the most critical and foundational element for designing a successful authentic research experience. Yet, a major barrier to this type of learning are teacher/leaders who are too often not equipped or who lack confidence to succeed in facilitating authentic research projects. The Mars Student Imaging Project has implemented an iterative process of design, testing, and redesign that has identified and implemented critical teacher/leader-enabling elements that have led to increasingly successful adoptions within formal and informal educational settings - allowing more students to gain the benefits of immersive research experience.

Advanced gearbox technology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, N. E.; Cedoz, R. W.; Salama, E. E.; Wagner, D. A.

1987-01-01

An advanced 13,000 HP, counterrotating (CR) gearbox was designed and successfully tested to provide a technology base for future designs of geared propfan propulsion systems for both commercial and military aircraft. The advanced technology CR gearbox was designed for high efficiency, low weight, long life, and improved maintainability. The differential planetary CR gearbox features double helical gears, double row cylindrical roller bearings integral with planet gears, tapered roller prop support bearings, and a flexible ring gear and diaphragm to provide load sharing. A new Allison propfan back-to-back gearbox test facility was constructed. Extensive rotating and stationary instrumentation was used to measure temperature, strain, vibration, deflection and efficiency under representative flight operating conditions. The tests verified smooth, efficient gearbox operation. The highly-instrumented advanced CR gearbox was successfully tested to design speed and power (13,000 HP), and to a 115 percent overspeed condition. Measured CR gearbox efficiency was 99.3 percent at the design point based on heat loss to the oil. Tests demonstrated low vibration characteristics of double helical gearing, proper gear tooth load sharing, low stress levels, and the high load capacity of the prop tapered roller bearings. Applied external prop loads did not significantly affect gearbox temperature, vibration, or stress levels. Gearbox hardware was in excellent condition after the tests with no indication of distress.

Design of a bioresorbable polymeric scaffold for osteoblast culture

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ditaranto, Vincent M., Jr.

Bioresorbable polymeric scaffolds were designed for the purpose of growing rat osteosarcoma cells (ROS 17/2.8) using the compression molding method. The material used in the construction of the scaffolds was a mixture of polycaprolactone (PCL), Hydroxyapatite (HA), Glycerin (GL) and salt (NaCl) for porosity. The concentration of the several materials utilized, was determined by volume. Past research at the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) has successfully utilized the compression molding method for the construction of scaffolds, but was unable to accomplish the goal of long term cell survival and complete cellular proliferation throughout a three dimensional scaffold. This research investigated various concentrations of the materials and molding temperatures used for the manufacture of scaffolds in order to improve the scaffold design and address those issues. The design of the scaffold using the compression molding process is detailed in the Method and Materials section of this thesis. The porogen (salt) used for porosity was suspected as a possible source of contamination causing cell apoptosis in past studies. This research addressed the issues for cell survival and proliferation throughout a three dimensional scaffold. The leaching of the salt was one major design modification. This research successfully used ultrasonic leaching in addition to the passive method. Prior to cell culture, the scaffolds were irradiated to 2.75 Mrad, with cobalt-60 gamma radionuclide. The tissue culture consisted of two trials: (1) cell culture in scaffolds cleaned with passive leaching; (2) cell culture with scaffolds cleaned with ultrasonic leaching. Cell survival and proliferation was accomplished only with the addition of ultrasonic leaching of the scaffolds. Analysis of the scaffolds included Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Nikon light microscopy and x-ray mapping of the calcium, sodium and chloride ion distribution. The cells were analyzed by Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM) and Nikon light microscopy. The high magnification of ESEM up to 60,000 x revealed an unexpected discovery. The osteoblasts appeared to be remodeling the PCL scaffold shown in the last two figures of this research.

TANK OPERATIONS CONTRACT CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT METHODOLOGY UTILIZING THE AGENCY METHOD OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT TO SAFELY AND EFFECTIVELY COMPLETE NUCLEAR CONSTRUCTION WORK

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

LESO KF; HAMILTON HM; FARNER M

Washington River Protection Solutions, LLC (WRPS) has faced significant project management challenges in managing Davis-Bacon construction work that meets contractually required small business goals. The unique challenge is to provide contracting opportunities to multiple small business construction subcontractors while performing high hazard work in a safe and productive manner. Previous to the Washington River Protection Solutions, LLC contract, Construction work at the Hanford Tank Farms was contracted to large companies, while current Department of Energy (DOE) Contracts typically emphasize small business awards. As an integral part of Nuclear Project Management at Hanford Tank Farms, construction involves removal of old equipmentmore » and structures and installation of new infrastructure to support waste retrieval and waste feed delivery to the Waste Treatment Plant. Utilizing the optimum construction approach ensures that the contractors responsible for this work are successful in meeting safety, quality, cost and schedule objectives while working in a very hazardous environment. This paper describes the successful transition from a traditional project delivery method that utilized a large business general contractor and subcontractors to a new project construction management model that is more oriented to small businesses. Construction has selected the Agency Construction Management Method. This method was implemented in the first quarter of Fiscal Year (FY) 2009, where Construction Management is performed by substantially home office resources from the URS Northwest Office in Richland, Washington. The Agency Method has allowed WRPS to provide proven Construction Managers and Field Leads to mentor and direct small business contractors, thus providing expertise and assurance of a successful project. Construction execution contracts are subcontracted directly by WRPS to small or disadvantaged contractors that are mentored and supported by DRS personnel. Each small contractor is mentored and supported utilizing the principles of the Construction Industry Institute (CII) Partnering process. Some of the key mentoring and partnering areas that are explored in this paper are, internal and external safety professional support, subcontractor safety teams and the interface with project and site safety teams, quality assurance program support to facilitate compliance with NQA-1, construction, team roles and responsibilities, work definition for successful fixed price contracts, scheduling and interface with project schedules and cost projection/accruals. The practical application of the CII Partnering principles, with the Construction Management expertise of URS, has led to a highly successful construction model that also meets small business contracting goals.« less

Earthworks logistics in the high density urban development conditions - case study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sobotka, A.; Blajer, M.

2017-10-01

Realisation of the construction projects on highly urbanised areas carries many difficulties and logistic problems. Earthworks conducted in such conditions constitute a good example of how important it is to properly plan the works and use the technical means of the logistics infrastructure. The construction processes on the observed construction site, in combination with their external logistics service are a complex system, difficult for mathematical modelling and achievement of appropriate data for planning the works. The paper shows describe and analysis of earthworks during construction of the Centre of Power Engineering of AGH in Krakow for two stages of a construction project. At the planning stage in the preparatory phase (before realization) and in the implementation phase of construction works (foundation). In the first case, an example of the use of queuing theory for prediction of excavation time under random work conditions of the excavator and the associated trucks is provided. In the second case there is a change of foundation works technology resulting as a consequence of changes in logistics earthworks. Observation of the construction has confirmed that the use of appropriate methods of construction works management, and in this case agile management, the time and cost of the project have not been exceeded. The success of a project depends on the ability of the contractor to react quickly when changes occur in the design, technology, environment, etc.

The application of domain-driven design in NMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Jinsong; Chen, Yan; Qin, Shengjun

2011-12-01

In the traditional design approach of data-model-driven, system analysis and design phases are often separated which makes the demand information can not be expressed explicitly. The method is also easy to lead developer to the process-oriented programming, making codes between the modules or between hierarchies disordered. So it is hard to meet requirement of system scalability. The paper proposes a software hiberarchy based on rich domain model according to domain-driven design named FHRDM, then the Webwork + Spring + Hibernate (WSH) framework is determined. Domain-driven design aims to construct a domain model which not only meets the demand of the field where the software exists but also meets the need of software development. In this way, problems in Navigational Maritime System (NMS) development like big system business volumes, difficulty of requirement elicitation, high development costs and long development cycle can be resolved successfully.

Magnetic suspension and balance system advanced study, phase 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Boom, R. W.; Abdelsalam, M. K.; Eyssa, Y. M.; Mcintosh, G. E.

1990-01-01

The design improvements for the system encompass 14 or 18 external superconductive coils mounted on a 8 x 8 foot wind tunnel, a superconductive model core magnet on a holmium mandrel to fit an F-16 model, model wings of permanent magnet material Nd2Fe14B, and fiber glass epoxy structure. The Magnetic Suspension and Balance System (MSBS) advanced design is confirmed by the successful construction and test of a full size superconductive model core solenoid with holmium mandrel. The solenoid is 75 cm long and 12.6 cm in diameter and produces 6.1 tesla for a hold time of 47 minutes. An integrated coil system design of a new compact configuration without specific coils for roll or pitch shows promise of simplicity; magnet reductions of 30 percent compared to the most recent 1985 design are possible.

How chimeric antigen receptor design affects adoptive T cell therapy

PubMed Central

Gacerez, Albert T.; Arellano, Benjamine; Sentman, Charles L.

2016-01-01

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have been developed to treat tumors and have shown great success against B cell malignancies. Exploiting modular designs and swappable domains, CARs can target an array of cell surface antigens and, upon receptor-ligand interactions, direct signaling cascades, thereby driving T cell effector functions. CARs have been designed using receptors, ligands, or scFv binding domains. Different regions of a CAR have each been found to play a role in determining the overall efficacy of CAR T cells. Therefore, this review provides an overview of CAR construction and common designs. Each CAR region is discussed in the context of its importance to a CAR’s function. Additionally, the review explores how various engineering strategies have been applied to CAR T cells in order to regulate CAR T cell function and activity. PMID:27163336

High density bit transition requirements versus the effects on BCH error correcting code. [bit synchronization

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ingels, F. M.; Schoggen, W. O.

1982-01-01

The design to achieve the required bit transition density for the Space Shuttle high rate multiplexes (HRM) data stream of the Space Laboratory Vehicle is reviewed. It contained a recommended circuit approach, specified the pseudo random (PN) sequence to be used and detailed the properties of the sequence. Calculations showing the probability of failing to meet the required transition density were included. A computer simulation of the data stream and PN cover sequence was provided. All worst case situations were simulated and the bit transition density exceeded that required. The Preliminary Design Review and the critical Design Review are documented. The Cover Sequence Generator (CSG) Encoder/Decoder design was constructed and demonstrated. The demonstrations were successful. All HRM and HRDM units incorporate the CSG encoder or CSG decoder as appropriate.

TANK OPERATIONS CONTRACT CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT METHODOLOGY UTILIZING THE AGENCY METHOD OF CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

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

LESKO KF; BERRIOCHOA MV

2010-02-26

Washington River Protection Solutions, LLC (WRPS) has faced significant project management challenges in managing Davis-Bacon construction work that meets contractually required small business goals. The unique challenge is to provide contracting opportunities to multiple small business constructioin subcontractors while performing high hazard work in a safe and productive manner. Previous to the WRPS contract, construction work at the Hanford Tank Farms was contracted to large companies, while current Department of Energy (DOE) Contracts typically emphasize small business awards. As an integral part of Nuclear Project Management at Hanford Tank Farms, construction involves removal of old equipment and structures and installationmore » of new infrastructure to support waste retrieval and waste feed delivery to the Waste Treatment Plant. Utilizing the optimum construction approach ensures that the contractors responsible for this work are successful in meeting safety, quality, cost and schedule objectives while working in a very hazardous environment. This paper descirbes the successful transition from a traditional project delivery method that utilized a large business general contractor and subcontractors to a new project construction management model that is more oriented to small businesses. Construction has selected the Agency Construction Management Method (John E Schaufelberger, Len Holm, "Management of Construction Projects, A Constructor's Perspective", University of Washington, Prentice Hall 2002). This method was implemented in the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2009 (FY2009), where Construction Management is performed by substantially home office resources from the URS Northwest Office in Richland, Washington. The Agency Method has allowed WRPS to provide proven Construction Managers and Field Leads to mentor and direct small business contractors, thus providing expertise and assurance of a successful project. Construction execution contracts are subcontracted directly by WRPS to small or disadvantaged contractors that are mentored and supported by URS personnel. Each small contractor is mentored and supported utilizing the principles of the Construction Industry Institute (CII) Partnering process. Some of the key mentoring and partnering areas that are explored in this paper are, internal and external safety professional support, subcontractor safety teams and the interface with project and site safety teams, quality assurance program support to facilitate compliance with NQA-1, construction, team roles and responsibilities, work definition for successful fixed price contracts, scheduling and interface with project schedules and cost projection/accruals. The practical application of the CII Partnering principles, with the Construction Management expertise of URS, has led to a highly successful construction model that also meets small business contracting goals.« less

Vacuum Technology Considerations For Mass Metrology

PubMed Central

Abbott, Patrick J.; Jabour, Zeina J.

2011-01-01

Vacuum weighing of mass artifacts eliminates the necessity of air buoyancy correction and its contribution to the measurement uncertainty. Vacuum weighing is also an important process in the experiments currently underway for the redefinition of the SI mass unit, the kilogram. Creating the optimum vacuum environment for mass metrology requires careful design and selection of construction materials, plumbing components, pumping, and pressure gauging technologies. We review the vacuum technology1 required for mass metrology and suggest procedures and hardware for successful and reproducible operation. PMID:26989593

Active plasma release experiments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1986-01-01

A pulse code modulator (PCM) encoder capable of storing data onboard into the mass memory in the encoder at up to 12 megabits per second was designed and constructed. This telemetry system was programed for two successful flights. All parts of the electronic system functioned perfectly during both previous flights and the detectors performed perfectly. However, in the first flight in Pokerflat, Alaska, an electron arm did not deploy for reasons as yet unkown. The ion arm deployed perfectly and good data was acquired.

The Jupiter Icy Moons Orbiter reference trajectory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Whiffen, Gregory J.; Lam, Try

2006-01-01

The proposed NASA Jupiter Icy Moons Orbiter (JIMO) mission would have used a single spacecraft to orbit Callisto, Ganymede, and Europa in succession. The enormous Delta-Velocity required for this mission (nearly [25 km/s]) would necessitate the use of very high efficiency electric propulsion. The trajectory created for the proposed baseline JIMO mission may be the most complex trajectory ever designed. This paper describes the current reference trajectory in detail and describes the processes that were used to construct it.

Achieving design reuse: a case study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, Peter J.; Nielsen, Jon J.; Roberts, William H.; Wilson, Greg M.

2008-08-01

The RSAA CICADA data acquisition and control software package uses an object-oriented approach to model astronomical instrumentation and a layered architecture for implementation. Emphasis has been placed on building reusable C++ class libraries and on the use of attribute/value tables for dynamic configuration. This paper details how the approach has been successfully used in the construction of the instrument control software for the Gemini NIFS and GSAOI instruments. The software is again being used for the new RSAA SkyMapper and WiFeS instruments.

Wire-Strain-Gage Hinge-Moment Indicators for Use in Tests of Airplane Models

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Edwards, Howard B.

1944-01-01

The design and construction of various forms of strain-gage spring units and hinge-moment assemblies are discussed with particular reference to wind-tunnel test, although the indicators may be used equally well in flight tests. Strain-gage specifications are given, and the techniques of their application and use are described briefly. Testing, calibration and operation of hinge-moment indicators are discussed and precautions necessary for successful operation are stressed. Difficulties that may be encountered are summarized along with the possible causes.

Protecting quantum memories using coherent parity check codes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roffe, Joschka; Headley, David; Chancellor, Nicholas; Horsman, Dominic; Kendon, Viv

2018-07-01

Coherent parity check (CPC) codes are a new framework for the construction of quantum error correction codes that encode multiple qubits per logical block. CPC codes have a canonical structure involving successive rounds of bit and phase parity checks, supplemented by cross-checks to fix the code distance. In this paper, we provide a detailed introduction to CPC codes using conventional quantum circuit notation. We demonstrate the implementation of a CPC code on real hardware, by designing a [[4, 2, 2

Vapors-liquid phase separator. [infrared telescope heat sink

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frederking, T. H. K.; Brown, G. S.; Chuang, C.; Kamioka, Y.; Kim, Y. I.; Lee, J. M.; Yuan, S. W. K.

1980-01-01

The use of porous plugs, mostly with in the form of passive devices with constant area were considered as vapor-liquid phase separators for helium 2 storage vessels under reduced gravity. The incorporation of components with variable cross sectional area as a method of flow rate modification was also investigated. A particular device which uses a shutter-type system for area variation was designed and constructed. This system successfully permitted flor rate changes of up to plus or minus 60% from its mean value.

Rapidly solidified titanium alloys by melt overflow

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gaspar, Thomas A.; Bruce, Thomas J., Jr.; Hackman, Lloyd E.; Brasmer, Susan E.; Dantzig, Jonathan A.; Baeslack, William A., III

1989-01-01

A pilot plant scale furnace was designed and constructed for casting titanium alloy strips. The furnace combines plasma arc skull melting techniques with melt overflow rapid solidification technology. A mathematical model of the melting and casting process was developed. The furnace cast strip of a suitable length and width for use with honeycomb structures. Titanium alloys Ti-6Al-4V and Ti-14Al-21 Nb were successfully cast into strips. The strips were evaluated by optical metallography, microhardness measurements, chemical analysis, and cold rolling.

Hotel Thayer, U.S. Military Academy, West Point, New York

DTIC Science & Technology

1994-09-27

successfully used for three previous hotel construction projects at Fort Bliss, Texas; Fort Drum, New York; and Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. The Army...performance and payment bonds were to cover costs of default during hotel construction and renovation. However, neither the default reserve nor the...privatization. The Army stated that credit enhancement (loan guarantee) has been successfully used for three previous hotel construction projects at Fort

Simple-1: Development stage of the data transmission system for a solid propellant mid-power rocket model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yarce, Andrés; Sebastián Rodríguez, Juan; Galvez, Julián; Gómez, Alejandro; García, Manuel J.

2017-06-01

This paper presents the development stage of a communication module for a solid propellant mid-power rocket model. The communication module was named. Simple-1 and this work considers its design, construction and testing. A rocket model Estes Ventris Series Pro II® was modified to introduce, on the top of the payload, several sensors in a CanSat form factor. The Printed Circuit Board (PCB) was designed and fabricated from Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) components and assembled in a cylindrical rack structure similar to this small format satellite concept. The sensors data was processed using one Arduino Mini and transmitted using a radio module to a Software Defined Radio (SDR) HackRF based platform on the ground station. The Simple-1 was tested using a drone in successive releases, reaching altitudes from 200 to 300 meters. Different kind of data, in terms of altitude, position, atmospheric pressure and vehicle temperature were successfully measured, making possible the progress to a next stage of launching and analysis.

Multilayer DNA Origami Packed on a Square Lattice

PubMed Central

Ke, Yonggang; Douglas, Shawn M.; Liu, Minghui; Sharma, Jaswinder; Cheng, Anchi; Leung, Albert; Liu, Yan; Shih, William M.; Yan, Hao

2009-01-01

Molecular self-assembly using DNA as a structural building block has proven to be an efficient route to the construction of nanoscale objects and arrays of increasing complexity. Using the remarkable “scaffolded DNA origami” strategy, Rothemund demonstrated that a long single-stranded DNA from a viral genome (M13) can be folded into a variety of custom two-dimensional (2D) shapes using hundreds of short synthetic DNA molecules as staple strands. More recently, we generalized a strategy to build custom-shaped, three-dimensional (3D) objects formed as pleated layers of helices constrained to a honeycomb lattice, with precisely controlled dimensions ranging from 10 to 100 nm. Here we describe a more compact design for 3D origami, with layers of helices packed on a square lattice, that can be folded successfully into structures of designed dimensions in a one-step annealing process, despite the increased density of DNA helices. A square lattice provides a more natural framework for designing rectangular structures, the option for a more densely packed architecture, and the ability to create surfaces that are more flat than is possible with the honeycomb lattice. Thus enabling the design and construction of custom 3D shapes from helices packed on a square lattice provides a general foundational advance for increasing the versatility and scope of DNA nanotechnology. PMID:19807088

Performance and results of the LBNE 35 ton membrane cryostat prototype

DOE PAGES

Montanari, David; Adamowski, Mark; Hahn, Alan; ...

2015-07-15

We report on the performance and commissioning of the first membrane cryostat to be used for scientific application. The Long Baseline Neutrino Experiment (LBNE) has designed and fabricated a membrane cryostat prototype in collaboration with Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (IHI). LBNE has designed and fabricated the supporting cryogenic system infrastructure and successfully commissioned and operated the first membrane cryostat. Original goals of the prototype are: to demonstrate the membrane cryostat technology in terms of thermal performance, feasibility for liquid argon and leak tightness; to demonstrate that we can remove all the impurities from the vessel and achieve the puritymore » requirements in a membrane cryostat without evacuation; to demonstrate that we can achieve and maintain the purity requirements of the liquid argon using mol sieve and copper filters. The purity requirements of a large liquid argon detector such as LBNE are contaminants below 200 parts per trillion (ppt) oxygen equivalent. LBNE is planning the design and construction of a large liquid argon detector. This presentation will present requirements, design and construction of the LBNE 35 ton membrane cryostat prototype, and detail the commissioning and performance. The experience and results of this prototype are extremely important for the development of the LBNE detector.« less

Evaluating the usability of a commercial cooling vest in the Hong Kong industries.

PubMed

Chan, Albert P; Yang, Yang; Song, Wen-Fang

2018-03-01

The provision of appropriate personal cooling vests is recognized as an effective measure to combat heat stress. However, personal cooling vests are not widely implemented in the Hong Kong industries. The current study aims to evaluate the usability of a hybrid cooling vest that is associated with the success of its application in industrial settings. A self-administrated questionnaire focusing on 10 subjective attributes of cooling effect, ergonomic design and usability of a hybrid cooling vest was administered with 232 occupational workers in the construction, horticultural and cleaning, airport apron services and kitchen and catering industries. A structural equation model estimated by analysis of moment structures was constructed to evaluate the usability of the cooling vest, as influenced by cooling effect and ergonomic design. Results showed that cooling effect (path coefficient = 0.69, p < 0.001) and ergonomic design (path coefficient = 0.55, p < 0.001) significantly affect the usability of the cooling vest. The structural equation model is feasible to examine the complex nature of the structural relationships among the subjective perceptions of personal cooling vests. The empirical findings furnish sound evidence for further optimization of the hybrid cooling vest in terms of cooling effect and ergonomic design for occupational workers.

Status of the Proton Therapy Project at IUCF and the Midwest Proton Radiotherapy Institute

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klein, Susan B.

2003-08-01

The first proton therapy patient was successfully treated for astrocytoma using a modified nuclear experimentation beam line and in-house treatment planning in 1993. In 1998, IUCF constructed an eye treatment clinic, and conducted a phase III clinical trial investigating proton radiation treatment of AMD. Treatment was planned using Eyeplan modified to match the IUCF beam characteristics. MPRI was conceptualized in 1996 by a consortium of physicians and physicists. Reconfiguration began in 2000; construction of the achromatic trunk line began in 2001, followed by manufacture of 4 energy selection lines and two fixed horizontal beam treatment lines. Two isocentric, rotational gantries will be installed following completion of the horizontal beam lines. A fifth line will supply the full-time radiation effects research station. Standard proton delivery out of the main stage is specified at 500 nA of 205 MeV. Clinic construction began in April, 2002 and will be completed by mid-December. Design, construction and operation of these proton facilities have been accomplished by the proton therapy group at IUCF.

Human Factors Simulation in Construction Management Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jaeger, M.; Adair, D.

2010-01-01

Successful construction management depends primarily on the representatives of the involved construction project parties. In addition to effective application of construction management tools and concepts, human factors impact significantly on the processes of any construction management endeavour. How can human factors in construction management…

Modelisation geometrique par NURBS pour le design aerodynamique des ailes d'avion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bentamy, Anas

The constant evolution of the computer science gives rise to many research areas especially in computer aided design. This study is part, of the advancement of the numerical methods in engineering computer aided design, specifically in aerospace science. The geometric modeling based on NURBS has been applied successfully to generate a parametric wing surface for aerodynamic design while satisfying manufacturing constraints. The goal of providing a smooth geometry described with few parameters has been achieved. In that case, a wing design including ruled surfaces at the leading edge slat and at the flap, and, curved central surfaces with intrinsic geometric property coming from conic curves, necessitates 130 control points and 15 geometric design variables. The 3D character of the wing need to be analyzed by techniques of investigation of surfaces in order to judge conveniently the visual aspect and detect any sign inversion in both directions of parametrization u and nu. Color mapping of the Gaussian curvature appears to be a very effective tools in visualization. The automation of the construction has been attained using an heuristic optimization algorithm, simulated annealing. The relative high speed of convergence to the solutions confirms its practical interest in engineering problems nowadays. The robustness of the geometric model has been tested successfully with an academic inverse design problem. The results obtained allow to foresee multiple possible applications from an extension to a complete geometric description of an airplane to the interaction with others disciplines belonging to a preliminary aeronautical design process.

Environmental Assessment -- Hydrothermal Geothermal Subprogram

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

None

1979-06-01

This environmental impact assessment addresses the design, construction, and operation of an electric generating plant (3 to 4 MWe) and research station (Hawaii Geothermal Research Station (HGRS)) in the Puna district on the Island of Hawaii. The facility will include control and support buildings, parking lots, cooling towers, settling and seepage ponds, the generating plant, and a visitors center. Research activities at the facility will evaluate the ability of a successfully flow-tested well (42-day flow test) to provide steam for power generation over an extended period of time (two years). In future expansion, research activities may include direct heat applicationsmore » such as aquaculture and the effects of geothermal fluids on various plant components and specially designed equipment on test modules. Construction-related impacts would be relatively minor. Construction of the facility will require the distance of about 1.7 ha (4.1 acres). No further disturbance is anticipated, unless it becomes necessary to replace the seepage pond with an injection well, because the production well is in service and adjacent roads and transmission lines are adequate. Disruption of competing land uses will be minimal, and loss of wildlife habitat will be acceptable. Noise should not significantly affect wildlife and local residents; the most noise activities (well drilling and flow testing) have been completed. Water use during construction will not be large, and impacts on competing uses are unlikely. Socio-economic impacts will be small because the project will not employ a large number of local residents and few construction workers will need to find local housing.« less

Shaft seals with an easily removable cylinder holder for low-pressure steam turbines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakharov, A. E.; Rodionov, D. A.; Pimenov, E. V.; Sobolev, A. S.

2016-01-01

The article is devoted to the problems that occur at the operation of LPC shaft seals (SS) of turbines, particularly, their bearings. The problems arising from the deterioration of oil-protecting rings of SS and bearings and also the consequences in which they can result are considered. The existing SS housing construction types are considered. Their operational features are specified. A new SS construction type with an easily removable holder is presented. The construction of its main elements is described. The sequence of operations of the repair personnel at the restoration of the new SS type spacings is proposed. The comparative analysis of the new and the existing SS construction types is carried out. The assessment results of the efficiency, the operational convenience, and the economic effect after the installation of the new type seals are given. The conclusions about the offered construction prospects are made by results of the comparative analysis and the carried-out assessment. The main advantage of this design is the possibility of spacings restoration both in SS and in oil-protecting rings during a short-term stop of a turbine, even without its cooling. This construction was successfully tested on the working K-300-23.5 LMP turbine. However, its adaptation for other turbines is quite possible.

Self-assembly programming of DNA polyominoes.

PubMed

Ong, Hui San; Syafiq-Rahim, Mohd; Kasim, Noor Hayaty Abu; Firdaus-Raih, Mohd; Ramlan, Effirul Ikhwan

2016-10-20

Fabrication of functional DNA nanostructures operating at a cellular level has been accomplished through molecular programming techniques such as DNA origami and single-stranded tiles (SST). During implementation, restrictive and constraint dependent designs are enforced to ensure conformity is attainable. We propose a concept of DNA polyominoes that promotes flexibility in molecular programming. The fabrication of complex structures is achieved through self-assembly of distinct heterogeneous shapes (i.e., self-organised optimisation among competing DNA basic shapes) with total flexibility during the design and assembly phases. In this study, the plausibility of the approach is validated using the formation of multiple 3×4 DNA network fabricated from five basic DNA shapes with distinct configurations (monomino, tromino and tetrominoes). Computational tools to aid the design of compatible DNA shapes and the structure assembly assessment are presented. The formations of the desired structures were validated using Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) imagery. Five 3×4 DNA networks were successfully constructed using combinatorics of these five distinct DNA heterogeneous shapes. Our findings revealed that the construction of DNA supra-structures could be achieved using a more natural-like orchestration as compared to the rigid and restrictive conventional approaches adopted previously. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Optical memory development. Volume 1: prototype memory system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cosentino, L. S.; Mezrich, R. S.; Nagle, E. M.; Stewart, W. C.; Wendt, F. S.

1972-01-01

The design, development, and implementation of a prototype, partially populated, million bit read-write holographic memory system using state-of-the-art components are described. The system employs an argon ion laser, acoustooptic beam deflectors, a holographic beam splitter (hololens), a nematic liquid crystal page composer, a photoconductor-thermoplastic erasable storage medium, a silicon P-I-N photodiode array, with lenses and electronics of both conventional and custom design. Operation of the prototype memory system was successfully demonstrated. Careful attention is given to the analysis from which the design criteria were developed. Specifications for the major components are listed, along with the details of their construction and performance. The primary conclusion resulting from this program is that the basic principles of read-write holographic memory system are well understood and are reducible to practice.

Construction managers' perceptions of construction safety practices in small and large firms: a qualitative investigation.

PubMed

Gillen, Marion; Kools, Susan; McCall, Cade; Sum, Juliann; Moulden, Kelli

2004-01-01

Despite the institution of explicit safety practices in construction, there continue to be exceedingly high rates of morbidity and mortality from work-related injury. This study's purpose was to identify, compare and contrast views of construction managers from large and small firms regarding construction safety practices. A complementary analysis was conducted with construction workers. A semi-structured interview guide was used to elicit information from construction managers (n = 22) in a series of focus groups. Questions were designed to obtain information on direct safety practices and indirect practices such as communication style, attitude, expectations, and unspoken messages. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Managers identified a broad commitment to safety, worker training, a changing workplace culture, and uniform enforcement as key constructs in maintaining safe worksites. Findings indicate that successful managers need to be involved, principled, flexible, and innovative. Best practices, as well as unsuccessful injury prevention programs, were discussed in detail. Obstacles to consistent safety practice include poor training, production schedules and financial constraints. Construction managers play a pivotal role in the definition and implementation of safety practices in the workplace. In order to succeed in this role, they require a wide variety of management skills, upper management support, and tools that will help them instill and maintain a positive safety culture. Developing and expanding management skills of construction managers may assist them in dealing with the complexity of the construction work environment, as well as providing them with the tools necessary to decrease work-related injuries.

Outcomes that Define Successful Advance Care Planning: A Delphi Panel Consensus

PubMed Central

Sudore, Rebecca L.; Heyland, Daren K.; Lum, Hillary D.; Rietjens, Judith A.C.; Korfage, Ida J.; Ritchie, Christine S.; Hanson, Laura C.; Meier, Diane E.; Pantilat, Steven Z.; Lorenz, Karl; Howard, Michelle; Green, Michael J.; Simon, Jessica E.; Feuz, Mariko A.; You, John J.

2017-01-01

Context Standardized outcomes that define successful advance care planning (ACP) are lacking. Objective To create an Organizing Framework of ACP outcome constructs and rate the importance of these outcomes. Methods This study convened a Delphi panel consisting of 52 multidisciplinary, international ACP experts including clinicians, researchers, and policy leaders from four countries. We conducted literature reviews and solicited attendee input from 5 international ACP conferences to identify initial ACP outcome constructs. In 5 Delphi rounds, we asked panelists to rate patient-centered outcomes on a 7-point “not-at-all” to “extremely important” scale. We calculated means and analyzed panelists’ input to finalize an Organizing Framework and outcome rankings. Results Organizing Framework outcome domains included process (e.g., attitudes), actions (e.g., discussions), quality of care (e.g., satisfaction), and healthcare (e.g., utilization). The top 5 outcomes included (1) care consistent with goals, mean 6.71 (±SD 0.04); (2) surrogate designation, 6.55 (0.45); (3) surrogate documentation, 6.50 (0.11); (4) discussions with surrogates, 6.40 (0.19); and (5) documents and recorded wishes are accessible when needed 6.27 (0.11). Advance directive documentation was ranked 10th, 6.01 (0.21). Panelists raised caution about whether “care consistent with goals” 6.01 (0.21). Panelists raised can be reliably measured. Conclusion A large, multidisciplinary Delphi panel developed an Organizing Framework and rated the importance of ACP outcome constructs. Top rated outcomes should be used to evaluate the success of ACP initiatives. More research is needed to create reliable and valid measurement tools for the highest rated outcomes, particularly “care consistent with goals.” PMID:28865870

Real-time robot deliberation by compilation and monitoring of anytime algorithms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zilberstein, Shlomo

1994-01-01

Anytime algorithms are algorithms whose quality of results improves gradually as computation time increases. Certainty, accuracy, and specificity are metrics useful in anytime algorighm construction. It is widely accepted that a successful robotic system must trade off between decision quality and the computational resources used to produce it. Anytime algorithms were designed to offer such a trade off. A model of compilation and monitoring mechanisms needed to build robots that can efficiently control their deliberation time is presented. This approach simplifies the design and implementation of complex intelligent robots, mechanizes the composition and monitoring processes, and provides independent real time robotic systems that automatically adjust resource allocation to yield optimum performance.

Final prototype of magnetically suspended flywheel energy storage system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anand, D. K.; Kirk, J. A.; Zmood, R. B.; Pang, D.; Lashley, C.

1991-01-01

A prototype of a 500 Wh magnetically suspended flywheel energy storage system was designed, built, and tested. The authors present the work done and include the following: (1) a final design of the magnetic bearing, control system, and motor/generator, (2) construction of a prototype system consisting of the magnetic bearing stack, flywheel, motor, container, and display module, and (3) experimental results for the magnetic bearings, motor, and the entire system. The successful completion of the prototype system has achieved: (1) manufacture of tight tolerance bearings, (2) stability and spin above the first critical frequency, (3) use of inside sensors to eliminate runout problems, and (4) integration of the motor and magnetic bearings.

Pathway Design, Engineering, and Optimization.

PubMed

Garcia-Ruiz, Eva; HamediRad, Mohammad; Zhao, Huimin

The microbial metabolic versatility found in nature has inspired scientists to create microorganisms capable of producing value-added compounds. Many endeavors have been made to transfer and/or combine pathways, existing or even engineered enzymes with new function to tractable microorganisms to generate new metabolic routes for drug, biofuel, and specialty chemical production. However, the success of these pathways can be impeded by different complications from an inherent failure of the pathway to cell perturbations. Pursuing ways to overcome these shortcomings, a wide variety of strategies have been developed. This chapter will review the computational algorithms and experimental tools used to design efficient metabolic routes, and construct and optimize biochemical pathways to produce chemicals of high interest.

A magnetically suspended linearly driven cryogenic refrigerator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stolfi, F.; Goldowsky, M.; Ricciardelli, J.; Shapiro, P.

1983-01-01

This paper described a novel Stirling cycle cryogenic refrigerator which was designed, fabricated and successfully tested at Philips Laboratories. The prominent features of the machine are an electro-magnetic bearing system, a pair of moving magnet linear motors, and clearance seals with a 25 mu m radial gap. The all-metal and ceramic construction eliminates long-term organic contamination of the helium working fluid. The axial positions of the piston and displacer are electronically controlled, permitting independent adjustment of the amplitude of each and their relative phase relationship during operation. A simple passive counterbalance reduces axial vibrations. The design of the refrigerator system components is discussed and a comparison is made between performance estimates and measured results.

Crossing the barrier between the laboratory working model and the practicable production model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Curby, William A.

1992-12-01

Transforming apparatus that has developed into a successfully working laboratory system into a system that is ready, or nearly ready for production, distribution and general use is not always accomplished in a cost effective or timely fashion. Several design elements must be considered interactively during the planning, construction, use and servicing of the final production form of the system. The basic design elements are: Operating Specifications, Reliability Factors, Safety Factors, Precision Limits, Accuracy Limits, Uniformity Factors, Cost Limits and Calibration Requirements. Secondary elements including: Human Engineering, Documentation, Training, Maintenance, Proprietary Rights, Protection, Marketing, Replacement of Parts, and Packing and Shipping must also be considered during the transition.

Final prototype of magnetically suspended flywheel energy storage system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anand, D. K.; Kirk, J. A.; Zmood, R. B.; Pang, D.; Lashley, C.

A prototype of a 500 Wh magnetically suspended flywheel energy storage system was designed, built, and tested. The authors present the work done and include the following: (1) a final design of the magnetic bearing, control system, and motor/generator, (2) construction of a prototype system consisting of the magnetic bearing stack, flywheel, motor, container, and display module, and (3) experimental results for the magnetic bearings, motor, and the entire system. The successful completion of the prototype system has achieved: (1) manufacture of tight tolerance bearings, (2) stability and spin above the first critical frequency, (3) use of inside sensors to eliminate runout problems, and (4) integration of the motor and magnetic bearings.

The Beauty and Limitations of 10 Micron Heterodyne Interferometry (ISI)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Danchi, William C.

2003-01-01

Until recently, heterodyne interferometry at 10 microns has been the only successful technique for stellar interferometry in the very difficult atmospheric window from 9-12 microns. For most of its operational lifetime the U.C. Berkeley Infrared Spatial Interferometer was a single-baseline two telescope (1.65 m aperture) system using CO2 lasers as local oscillators. This instrument was designed and constructed from 1983-1988, and first fringes were obtained at Mt. Wilson in June 1988. During the past few years, a third telescope was constructed and just recently the first closure phases were obtained at 11.15 microns. We discuss the history, physics and technology of heterodyne interferometry in the mid-infrared, and some key astronomical results that have come from this unique instrument.

Phage selection of peptide "microantibodies".

PubMed

Fujiwara, Daisuke; Fujii, Ikuo

2013-01-01

A bioactive peptide capable of inhibiting protein-protein interactions has the potential to be a molecular tool for biological studies and a therapeutic by disrupting aberrant interactions involved in diseases. We have developed combinatorial libraries of peptides with helix-loop-helix structure, from which the isolated peptides have the constrained structure to reduce entropy costs in binding, resulting in high binding affinities for target molecules. Previously, we designed a de novo peptide of helix-loop-helix structure that we termed a "microantibody." Using the microantibody as a library scaffold, we have constructed a phage-display library to successfully isolate molecular-targeting peptides against a cytokine receptor (granulocyte colony-stimulating factor receptor), a protein kinase (Aurora-A), and a ganglioside (GM1). Protocols in this article describe a general procedure for the library construction and the library screening.

Quantification of construction waste prevented by BIM-based design validation: Case studies in South Korea.

PubMed

Won, Jongsung; Cheng, Jack C P; Lee, Ghang

2016-03-01

Waste generated in construction and demolition processes comprised around 50% of the solid waste in South Korea in 2013. Many cases show that design validation based on building information modeling (BIM) is an effective means to reduce the amount of construction waste since construction waste is mainly generated due to improper design and unexpected changes in the design and construction phases. However, the amount of construction waste that could be avoided by adopting BIM-based design validation has been unknown. This paper aims to estimate the amount of construction waste prevented by a BIM-based design validation process based on the amount of construction waste that might be generated due to design errors. Two project cases in South Korea were studied in this paper, with 381 and 136 design errors detected, respectively during the BIM-based design validation. Each design error was categorized according to its cause and the likelihood of detection before construction. The case studies show that BIM-based design validation could prevent 4.3-15.2% of construction waste that might have been generated without using BIM. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Design and methodology of the LA Sprouts nutrition, cooking and gardening program for Latino youth: a randomized controlled intervention

PubMed Central

Martinez, Lauren C.; Gatto, Nicole M.; Spruijt-Metz, Donna; Davis, Jaimie N.

2015-01-01

Objective The LA Sprouts 12-week nutrition, cooking and gardening intervention targets obesity reduction in Latino children. While other gardening and nutrition programs are shown to improve dietary intake, LA Sprouts is unique in that it utilized a curriculum demonstrated to decrease obesity. This methodology paper outlines the design and processes of the LA Sprouts study, and discusses key strategies employed to foster successful implementation of the program. Setting After-school program in four Los Angeles elementary schools. Subjects 3rd–5th grade students. Design Randomized controlled trial. Gardens were built on two of four school campuses, and the 90-minute weekly lessons focused on strategies to increase fruit and vegetable consumption, gardening at school and home, and cooking healthy meals/snacks. Data collection was conducted pre- and post-intervention and included basic clinical and anthropometric measures, dietary intake and psychosocial constructs measured by questionnaire, and an optional fasting blood draw. Results Baseline data was collected from 364 children, and 320 (88%) completed follow-up. No participants withdrew from the program (data were missing for other reasons). Intervention students attended 9.7 ± 2.3 lessons. Fasting blood samples were collected on 169 children at baseline, and 113 (67%) at follow-up. Questionnaire scales had good internal consistency (IC) and intra-rater reliability (IRR; in child scales: 88% items with IC >0.7 and 70% items with IRR > 0.50; in parent scales: 75% items with IC > 0.7). Conclusions The intervention was successfully implemented in the schools and scales appear appropriate to evaluate psychosocial constructs relevant to a gardening intervention. PMID:25896115

Ranking the Project Management Success Factors for Construction Project in South India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aneesha, K.; Haridharan, M. K.

2017-07-01

In Today’s construction industry, to achieve a greater advantage over the firms, success of each project and efficiency is required. Effective Project Management overcomes these types of challenges. This study identifies the success factors which are important for project management in construction project success. From the literature review, 26 factors were found to be critical. Project managers, construction managers, civil engineers, contractors and site engineers were the respondents. After analyzing the data in SPSS software, the dominant factors from the regression analysis are top management support, competent project team, abilities to solve problems, realistic cost and time estimates, information/communication, competency of the project manager are the 6 factors out of 12 in 26 factors. Effective communication between stakeholders got highest priority and client involvement, good leadership, clarity of project goals got second priority. Informal communication gives better results compared to formal communications like written formats. To remove communication barrier with the stakeholders, informal communication like speaking face-to-face with the language this fits for the stakeholders.

Design issues concerning Iran`s Bushehr nuclear power plant VVER-1000 conversion

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

Carson, C.F.

On January 8, 1995, the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) signed a contract for $800 million with the Russian Federation Ministry for Atomic Energy (Minatom) to complete Bushehr nuclear power plant (BNPP) unit 1. The agreement called for a Russian VVER-1000/320 pressurized water reactor (PWR) to be successfully installed into the existing German-built BNPP facilities in 5 yr. System design differences, bomb damage, and environmental exposure are key issues with which Minatom must contend in order to fulfill the contract. The AEOI under the Shah of Iran envisioned Bushehr as the first of many nuclear power plants, with Iranmore » achieving 24 GW(electric) by 1993 and 34 GW(electric) by 2000. Kraftwerk Union AG (KWU) began construction of the two-unit plant near the Persian Gulf town of Halileh in 1975. Unit 1 was {approx}80% complete and unit 2 was {approx}50% complete when construction was interrupted by the 1979 Iranian Islamic revolution. Despite repeated AEOI attempts to lure KWU and other companies back to Iran to complete the plant, Western concerns about nuclear proliferation in Iran and repeated bombings of the plant during the 1980-1988 Iran-Iraq war dissuaded Germany from resuming construction.« less

76 FR 70807 - Notice of Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) Approvals and Disapprovals

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-15

... (design and construction). Enplane road structural improvements (design and construction). Landside signage improvements (design and construction). Taxiway B-2 extension and taxiway B-1 rehabilitation (design and construction). Elevator and escalator safety code compliance improvements (design and...

Expanding the disaster risk management framework: Measuring the constructed level of national identity as a factor of political risk

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

Political risk is identified as a dominant risk category of disaster risk management (DRM) which could negatively affect the success of those measures implemented to reduce disaster risk. Key to political risk is the construct of national identity which, if poorly constructed, could greatly contribute to political risk. This article proposed a tool to measure the construct of national identity and to provide recommendations to strengthen the construct in order to mitigate the exacerbating influence it may have on political risk and ultimately on DRM. The design of the measurement tool consisted of a mixed methodological approach employing both quantitative and qualitative data. The data collection instruments included a literature review (which is shortly provided in the previous sections) and an empirical study that utilised data obtained through structured questionnaires. Although the results of the proposed measuring instrument did not include a representative sample of all the cultures in South Africa, the results alluded to different levels for the construction of national identity among black and white respondents, possibly because of different ideological expectations among these groups. The results of the study should be considered as a validation of the measuring tool and not necessarily of the construct of national identity in South Africa. The measuring tool is thus promising for future studies to reduce political risk and ultimately disaster risk.

Adnectin-Based Design of Chimeric Antigen Receptor for T Cell Engineering.

PubMed

Han, Xiaolu; Cinay, Gunce E; Zhao, Yifan; Guo, Yunfei; Zhang, Xiaoyang; Wang, Pin

2017-11-01

Although chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered T cell therapy has achieved encouraging clinical trial results for treating hematological cancers, further optimization can likely expand this therapeutic success to more patients and other cancer types. Most CAR constructs used in clinical trials incorporate single chain variable fragment (scFv) as the extracellular antigen recognition domain. The immunogenicity of nonhuman scFv could cause host rejection against CAR T cells and compromise their persistence and efficacy. The limited availability of scFvs and slow discovery of new monoclonal antibodies also limit the development of novel CAR constructs. Adnectin, a class of affinity molecules derived from the tenth type III domain of human fibronectin, can be an alternative to scFv as an antigen-binding moiety in the design of CAR molecules. We constructed adnectin-based CARs targeting epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) and found that compared to scFv-based CAR, T cells engineered with adnectin-based CARs exhibited equivalent cell-killing activity against target H292 lung cancer cells in vitro and had comparable antitumor efficacy in xenograft tumor-bearing mice in vivo. In addition, with optimal affinity tuning, adnectin-based CAR showed higher selectivity on target cells with high EGFR expression than on those with low expression. This new design of adnectin CARs can potentially facilitate the development of T cell immunotherapy for cancer and other diseases. Copyright © 2017 The American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Premature Mobility of Boulders in Constructed Step-pool River Structures in the Carmel River, CA: The Role of Fish-centric Design Constraints, and Flow on Structural Stability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, D. P.; Chow, K.; Luna, L.

2017-12-01

The 32 m tall San Clemente Dam (Carmel River, CA) was removed in 2015 to eliminate seismic risk and to improve fish passage for all life stages of steelhead (O. mykiss). Reservoir sediment was sequestered in place, rather than released, and a new 1000 m long channel/floodplain system was constructed to circumvent the stored sediment. The channel comprised a 250 m long, meandering low-gradient reach and a 750 m reach with alternating step-pool sections, plane beds, and resting pools. The floodprone surfaces were compacted, wrapped in geotechnical fabric and vegetated. This study analyzes the geomorphic evolution of the new channel system during its first two years of service based upon detailed field inspection, SfM photogrammetry, orthophoto analysis, and 2d hydraulic modeling. A significant proportion of the step-pool structures experienced premature mobility and several reaches of engineered stream banks were eroded in the first year. Individual, six-tonne boulders were mobilized despite experiencing less than the 3 yr flow. The channel and floodplain were fully repaired following the first year. Strong flows (two 10-yr floods and a 30-yr flood) during the second year catastrophically altered the constructed channel and floodplain. While the low-gradient reach remained intact, each of the original step-pool structures was either completely mobilized and destroyed, buried by gravel, or bypassed by the subsequent channel. Despite the overall structural failure of the constructed channel, the new channel does not block steelhead migration, and can be serendipitously considered an ecological success. Step-pool design was constrained by a fish-centric requirement that steps be 1 ft tall or less. Some constructed "resting pools" filled rather than transport sediment. Using fish-centric constraints in the design, rather than strictly fluvial geomorphic principles may have contributed to early failure of the step-pool structures and other parts of the system.

Risk assessment model for development of advanced age-related macular degeneration.

PubMed

Klein, Michael L; Francis, Peter J; Ferris, Frederick L; Hamon, Sara C; Clemons, Traci E

2011-12-01

To design a risk assessment model for development of advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) incorporating phenotypic, demographic, environmental, and genetic risk factors. We evaluated longitudinal data from 2846 participants in the Age-Related Eye Disease Study. At baseline, these individuals had all levels of AMD, ranging from none to unilateral advanced AMD (neovascular or geographic atrophy). Follow-up averaged 9.3 years. We performed a Cox proportional hazards analysis with demographic, environmental, phenotypic, and genetic covariates and constructed a risk assessment model for development of advanced AMD. Performance of the model was evaluated using the C statistic and the Brier score and externally validated in participants in the Complications of Age-Related Macular Degeneration Prevention Trial. The final model included the following independent variables: age, smoking history, family history of AMD (first-degree member), phenotype based on a modified Age-Related Eye Disease Study simple scale score, and genetic variants CFH Y402H and ARMS2 A69S. The model did well on performance measures, with very good discrimination (C statistic = 0.872) and excellent calibration and overall performance (Brier score at 5 years = 0.08). Successful external validation was performed, and a risk assessment tool was designed for use with or without the genetic component. We constructed a risk assessment model for development of advanced AMD. The model performed well on measures of discrimination, calibration, and overall performance and was successfully externally validated. This risk assessment tool is available for online use.

A before-after control-impact assessment to understand the potential impacts of highway construction noise and activity on an endangered songbird.

PubMed

Long, Ashley M; Colón, Melanie R; Bosman, Jessica L; Robinson, Dianne H; Pruett, Hannah L; McFarland, Tiffany M; Mathewson, Heather A; Szewczak, Joseph M; Newnam, J Cal; Morrison, Michael L

2017-01-01

Anthropogenic noise associated with highway construction and operation can have individual- and population-level consequences for wildlife (e.g., reduced densities, decreased reproductive success, behavioral changes). We used a before-after control-impact study design to examine the potential impacts of highway construction and traffic noise on endangered golden-cheeked warblers ( Setophaga chrysoparia ; hereafter warbler) in urban Texas. We mapped and monitored warbler territories before (2009-2011), during (2012-2013), and after (2014) highway construction at three study sites: a treatment site exposed to highway construction and traffic noise, a control site exposed only to traffic noise, and a second control site exposed to neither highway construction or traffic noise. We measured noise levels at varying distances from the highway at sites exposed to construction and traffic noise. We examined how highway construction and traffic noise influenced warbler territory density, territory placement, productivity, and song characteristics. In addition, we conducted a playback experiment within study sites to evaluate acute behavioral responses to highway construction noises. Noise decreased with increasing distance from the highways. However, noise did not differ between the construction and traffic noise sites or across time. Warbler territory density increased over time at all study sites, and we found no differences in warbler territory placement, productivity, behavior, or song characteristics that we can attribute to highway construction or traffic noise. As such, we found no evidence to suggest that highway construction or traffic noise had a negative effect on warblers during our study. Because human population growth will require recurring improvements to transportation infrastructure, understanding wildlife responses to anthropogenic noise associated with the construction and operation of roads is essential for effective management and recovery of prioritized species.

Constructing bio-layer of heparin and type IV collagen on titanium surface for improving its endothelialization and blood compatibility.

PubMed

Zhang, Kun; Chen, Jun-ying; Qin, Wei; Li, Jing-an; Guan, Fang-xia; Huang, Nan

2016-04-01

The modification of cardiovascular stent surface for a better micro-environment has gradually changed to multi-molecule, multi-functional designation. In this study, heparin (Hep) and type IV collagen (IVCol) were used as the functional molecule to construct a bifunctional micro-environment of anticoagulation and promoting endothelialization on titanium (Ti). The surface characterization results (AFM, Alcian Blue 8GX Staining and fluorescence staining of IVCol) indicated that the bio-layer of Hep and IVCol were successfully fabricated on the Ti surface through electrostatic self-assembly. The APTT and platelet adhesion test demonstrated that the bionic layer possessed better blood compatibility compared with Ti surface. The adhesion, proliferation, migration and apoptosis tests of endothelial cells proved that the Hep/IVCol layer was able to enhance the endothelialization of the Ti surface. The in vivo animal implantation results manifested that the bionic surface could encourage new endothelialization. This work provides an important reference for the construction of multifunction micro-environment on the cardiovascular scaffold surface.

Guidelines for the successful generation of protein–ligand complex crystals

PubMed Central

Müller, Ilka

2017-01-01

With continuous technical improvements at synchrotron facilities, data-collection rates have increased dramatically. This makes it possible to collect diffraction data for hundreds of protein–ligand complexes within a day, provided that a suitable crystal system is at hand. However, developing a suitable crystal system can prove challenging, exceeding the timescale of data collection by several orders of magnitude. Firstly, a useful crystallization construct of the protein of interest needs to be chosen and its expression and purification optimized, before screening for suitable crystallization and soaking conditions can start. This article reviews recent publications analysing large data sets of crystallization trials, with the aim of identifying factors that do or do not make a good crystallization construct, and gives guidance in the design of an expression construct. It provides an overview of common protein-expression systems, addresses how ligand binding can be both help and hindrance for protein purification, and describes ligand co-crystallization and soaking, with an emphasis on troubleshooting. PMID:28177304

Genome Partitioner: A web tool for multi-level partitioning of large-scale DNA constructs for synthetic biology applications

PubMed Central

Del Medico, Luca; Christen, Heinz; Christen, Beat

2017-01-01

Recent advances in lower-cost DNA synthesis techniques have enabled new innovations in the field of synthetic biology. Still, efficient design and higher-order assembly of genome-scale DNA constructs remains a labor-intensive process. Given the complexity, computer assisted design tools that fragment large DNA sequences into fabricable DNA blocks are needed to pave the way towards streamlined assembly of biological systems. Here, we present the Genome Partitioner software implemented as a web-based interface that permits multi-level partitioning of genome-scale DNA designs. Without the need for specialized computing skills, biologists can submit their DNA designs to a fully automated pipeline that generates the optimal retrosynthetic route for higher-order DNA assembly. To test the algorithm, we partitioned a 783 kb Caulobacter crescentus genome design. We validated the partitioning strategy by assembling a 20 kb test segment encompassing a difficult to synthesize DNA sequence. Successful assembly from 1 kb subblocks into the 20 kb segment highlights the effectiveness of the Genome Partitioner for reducing synthesis costs and timelines for higher-order DNA assembly. The Genome Partitioner is broadly applicable to translate DNA designs into ready to order sequences that can be assembled with standardized protocols, thus offering new opportunities to harness the diversity of microbial genomes for synthetic biology applications. The Genome Partitioner web tool can be accessed at https://christenlab.ethz.ch/GenomePartitioner. PMID:28531174

Computational design of RNA parts, devices, and transcripts with kinetic folding algorithms implemented on multiprocessor clusters.

PubMed

Thimmaiah, Tim; Voje, William E; Carothers, James M

2015-01-01

With progress toward inexpensive, large-scale DNA assembly, the demand for simulation tools that allow the rapid construction of synthetic biological devices with predictable behaviors continues to increase. By combining engineered transcript components, such as ribosome binding sites, transcriptional terminators, ligand-binding aptamers, catalytic ribozymes, and aptamer-controlled ribozymes (aptazymes), gene expression in bacteria can be fine-tuned, with many corollaries and applications in yeast and mammalian cells. The successful design of genetic constructs that implement these kinds of RNA-based control mechanisms requires modeling and analyzing kinetically determined co-transcriptional folding pathways. Transcript design methods using stochastic kinetic folding simulations to search spacer sequence libraries for motifs enabling the assembly of RNA component parts into static ribozyme- and dynamic aptazyme-regulated expression devices with quantitatively predictable functions (rREDs and aREDs, respectively) have been described (Carothers et al., Science 334:1716-1719, 2011). Here, we provide a detailed practical procedure for computational transcript design by illustrating a high throughput, multiprocessor approach for evaluating spacer sequences and generating functional rREDs. This chapter is written as a tutorial, complete with pseudo-code and step-by-step instructions for setting up a computational cluster with an Amazon, Inc. web server and performing the large numbers of kinefold-based stochastic kinetic co-transcriptional folding simulations needed to design functional rREDs and aREDs. The method described here should be broadly applicable for designing and analyzing a variety of synthetic RNA parts, devices and transcripts.

Building Specifications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1978-01-01

The building in the top photo is the new home of the National Permanent Savings Bank in Washington, D.C., designed by Hartman-Cox Architects. Its construction was based on a money-saving method of preparing building specifications which derived from NASA technology developed to obtain quality construction while holding down cost of launch facilities, test centers and other structures. Written technical specifications spell out materials and components to be used on construction projects and identify the quality tests each item must pass. Specifications can have major impact on construction costs. Poorly formulated specifications can lead to unacceptable construction which must be replaced, unnecessarily high materials costs, safety hazards, disputes and often additional costs due to delays and litigation. NASA's Langley Research Center developed a novel approach to providing accurate, uniform, cost-effective specifications which can be readily updated to incorporate new building technologies. Called SPECSINTACT, it is a computerized - system accessible to all NASA centers involved in construction programs. The system contains a comprehensive catalog of master specifications applicable to many types of construction. It enables designers of any structure to call out relevant sections from computer storage and modify them to fit the needs of the project at hand. Architects and engineers can save time by concentrating their efforts on needed modifications rather than developing all specifications from scratch. Successful use of SPECSINTACT has led to a number of spinoff systems. One of the first was MASTERSPEC, developed from NASA's experience by Production Systems for Architects and Engineers, Inc., an organization established by the American Institute of Architects. MASTERSPEC, used in construction of the bank building pictured, follows the same basic format as SPECSINTACT and can be used in either automated or manual modes. The striking appearance of the bank building shows that, while MASTERSPEC saves time and money, its use involves no sacrfice in architectural design freedom. The Naval Engineering Facilities Command employs an automated specifications system based on SPECSINTACT. The Public Buildings Service of the General Services Administration used SPECSINTACT as a starting point in a plan to make its guideline specifications available to architects and engineers on a nationwide computer network. Public Technology, Inc., a NASA Technology Application Team, is working with Production Systems for Architects and Engineers, Inc., to promote widespread use of the system by state and local governments for cost benefits to taxpayers.

Managing a big ground-based astronomy project: the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sanders, Gary H.

2008-07-01

TMT is a big science project and its scale is greater than previous ground-based optical/infrared telescope projects. This paper will describe the ideal "linear" project and how the TMT project departs from that ideal. The paper will describe the needed adaptations to successfully manage real world complexities. The progression from science requirements to a reference design, the development of a product-oriented Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and an organization that parallels the WBS, the implementation of system engineering, requirements definition and the progression through Conceptual Design to Preliminary Design will be summarized. The development of a detailed cost estimate structured by the WBS, and the methodology of risk analysis to estimate contingency fund requirements will be summarized. Designing the project schedule defines the construction plan and, together with the cost model, provides the basis for executing the project guided by an earned value performance measurement system.

Designing attractive gamification features for collaborative storytelling websites.

PubMed

Hsu, Shang Hwa; Chang, Jen-Wei; Lee, Chun-Chia

2013-06-01

Gamification design is considered as the predictor of collaborative storytelling websites' success. Although aforementioned studies have mentioned a broad range of factors that may influence gamification, they neither depicted the actual design features nor relative attractiveness among them. This study aims to identify attractive gamification features for collaborative storytelling websites. We first constructed a hierarchical system structure of gamification design of collaborative storytelling websites and conducted a focus group interview with eighteen frequent users to identify 35gamification features. After that, this study determined the relative attractiveness of these gamification features by administrating an online survey to 6333 collaborative storytelling websites users. The results indicated that the top 10 most attractive gamification features could account for more than 50% of attractiveness among these 35 gamification features. The feature of unpredictable time pressure is important to website users, yet not revealed in previous relevant studies. Implications of the findings were discussed.

How Chimeric Antigen Receptor Design Affects Adoptive T Cell Therapy.

PubMed

Gacerez, Albert T; Arellano, Benjamine; Sentman, Charles L

2016-12-01

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells have been developed to treat tumors and have shown great success against B cell malignancies. Exploiting modular designs and swappable domains, CARs can target an array of cell surface antigens and, upon receptor-ligand interactions, direct signaling cascades, thereby driving T cell effector functions. CARs have been designed using receptors, ligands, or scFv binding domains. Different regions of a CAR have each been found to play a role in determining the overall efficacy of CAR T cells. Therefore, this review provides an overview of CAR construction and common designs. Each CAR region is discussed in the context of its importance to a CAR's function. Additionally, the review explores how various engineering strategies have been applied to CAR T cells in order to regulate CAR T cell function and activity. J. Cell. Physiol. 231: 2590-2598, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Geomorphic reclmation of a coal refuse pile

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hopkinson, L. C.; Quaranta, J.

2017-12-01

Geomorphic reclamation is a technique that may offer opportunities to improve mine reclamation in Central Appalachia. The design approach is based on constructing a steady-state, mature landform condition and takes into account the long-term climatic conditions, soil types, terrain grade, and vegetation. Geomorphic reclamation has been applied successfully in semi-arid regions but has not yet been applied in Central Appalachia. This work describes a demonstration study where geomorphic landforming techniques are being applied to a coarse coal refuse pile in southern West Virginia, USA. The reclamation design includes four geomorphic watersheds that radially drain runoff from the pile. Each watershed has one central draining channel and incorporates compound slope profiles similarly to naturally eroded slopes. Planar slopes were also included to maintain the impacted area. The intent is to alter the hydrology to decrease water quality treatment costs. The excavation cut and fill volumes are comparable to those of more conventional refuse pile reclamation designs. If proven successful then this technique can be part of a cost-effective solution to improve water quality at active and future refuse facilities, abandoned mine lands, bond forfeiture sites, landfills, and major earthmoving activities within the region.

Enhancing the competitiveness of skilled construction workers through collaborative education and training

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dardiri, Ahmad; Sutrisno, Kuncoro, Tri; Ichwanto, Muhamad Aris; Suparji

2017-09-01

Professionalism of construction workers is one of the keys to the success of infrastructure development projects. The professionalism of the workforce is demonstrated through the possession of expertise competence certificate (SKA) and/or certificates of skills (SKT) issued formally through competency tests by the National Construction Cervices Development Agency (LPJKN). The magnitude of the national skilled manpower needs has not been able to meet the availability of professional workforce. Strategies to develop the quality of resources require sufficient information on the characteristics of the resources themselves, facilities, constraints, stakeholder support, regulations, and socioeconomic as well as cultural conditions. The problems faced by Indonesia in improving the competitiveness of skilled construction workers are (1) how the level of professionalism of skill workers in construction field, (2) what the constrains on improving the quality of skilled construction workers,and(3) how the appropriate model of education and training skillfull construction work. The study was designed with quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative methods were used to describe the profile of sklill constructions worker. Qualitative methods were used toidentify constraintsin improving the qualityof skilled labor, as well as formulate a viable collaborative education and training model for improving the quality of skill labor. Data were collected by documentation, observation, and interview. The result of the study indicate theat (1) the professionalism knowledge of skilled constructions worker are in still low condition, (2) the constrain faced in developing the quality of skilled construction labor cover economic and structural constrains, and (3) collaborative eduction and training model can improve the quality ods skilld labor contructions.

Planning, Designing, Building, and Moving a Large Volume Maternity Service to a New Labor and Birth Unit.

PubMed

Thompson, Heather; Legorreta, Kimberly; Maher, Mary Ann; Lavin, Melanie M

Our health system recognized the need to update facility space and associated technology for the labor and birth unit within our large volume perinatal service to improve the patient experience, and enhance safety, quality of care, and staff satisfaction. When an organization decides to invest $30 million dollars in a construction project such as a new labor and birth unit, many factors and considerations are involved. Financial support, planning, design, and construction phases of building a new unit are complex and therefore require strong interdisciplinary collaboration, leadership, and project management. The new labor and birth unit required nearly 3 years of planning, designing, and construction. Patient and family preferences were elicited through consumer focus groups. Multiple meetings with the administrative and nursing leadership teams, staff nurses, nurse midwives, and physicians were held to generate ideas for improvement in the new space. Involving frontline clinicians and childbearing women in the process was critical to success. The labor and birth unit moved to a new patient tower in a space that was doubled in square footage and geographically now on three separate floors. In the 6 months prior to the move, many efforts were made in our community to share our new space. The marketing strategy was very detailed and creative with ongoing input from the nursing leadership team. The nursing staff was involved in every step along the way. It was critical to have champions as workflow teams emerged. We hosted simulation drills and tested scenarios with new workflows. Move day was rehearsed with representatives of all members of the perinatal team participating. These efforts ultimately resulted in a move time of ~5 hours. Birth volumes increased 7% within the first 6 months. After 3 years in our new space, our birth volumes have risen nearly 15% and are still growing. Key processes and roles responsible for a successful build, efficient and safe move day, and optimal operational utility, as anticipated, of a new labor and birth unit in a large volume perinatal service are detailed.

Applying the Power of Reticular Chemistry to Finding the Missing alb-MOF Platform Based on the (6,12)-Coordinated Edge-Transitive Net.

PubMed

Chen, Zhijie; Weseliński, Łukasz J; Adil, Karim; Belmabkhout, Youssef; Shkurenko, Aleksander; Jiang, Hao; Bhatt, Prashant M; Guillerm, Vincent; Dauzon, Emilie; Xue, Dong-Xu; O'Keeffe, Michael; Eddaoudi, Mohamed

2017-03-01

Highly connected and edge-transitive nets are of prime importance in crystal chemistry and are regarded as ideal blueprints for the rational design and construction of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). We report the design and synthesis of highly connected MOFs based on reticulation of the sole two edge-transitive nets with a vertex figure as double six-membered-ring (d6R) building unit, namely the (4,12)-coordinated shp net (square and hexagonal-prism) and the (6,12)-coordinated alb net (aluminum diboride, hexagonal-prism and trigonal-prism). Decidedly, the combination of our recently isolated 12-connected (12-c) rare-earth (RE) nonanuclear [RE 9 (μ 3 -OH) 12 (μ 3 -O) 2 (O 2 C-) 12 ] carboxylate-based cluster, points of extension matching the 12 vertices of hexagonal-prism d6R, with 4-connected (4-c) square porphyrinic tetracarboxylate ligand led to the formation of the targeted RE-shp-MOF. This is the first time that RE-MOFs based on 12-c molecular building blocks (MBBs), d6R building units, have been deliberately targeted and successfully isolated, paving the way for the long-awaited (6,12)-c MOF with alb topology. Indeed, combination of a custom-designed hexacarboxylate ligand with RE salts led to the formation of the first related alb-MOF, RE-alb-MOF. Intuitively, we successfully transplanted the alb topology to another chemical system and constructed the first indium-based alb-MOF, In-alb-MOF, by employing trinuclear [In 3 (μ 3 -O)(O 2 C-) 6 ] as the requisite 6-connected trigonal-prism and purposely made a dodecacarboxylate ligand as a compatible 12-c MBB. Prominently, the dodecacarboxylate ligand was employed to transplant shp topology into copper-based MOFs by employing the copper paddlewheel [Cu 2 (O 2 C-) 4 ] as the complementary square building unit, affording the first Cu-shp-MOF. We revealed that highly connected edge-transitive nets such shp and alb are ideal for topological transplantation and deliberate construction of related MOFs based on minimal edge-transitive nets.

Opportunities for market-based programs worldwide that reduce greenhouse gas emissions: Initial Observations from Missions to the Philippines, South Africa, and Mexico

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

Stanton-Hoyle, D.R.

1998-07-01

Globally, governments and industries are implementing innovative voluntary programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Often these programs encourage groups to use cost effective technologies that capture market-based forces. These programs are successful because they capitalize on existing opportunities where both the environment and the participants can benefit (i.e., win-win opportunities). This paper documents efforts to investigate these kinds of win-win opportunities in three developing countries: the Philippines, South Africa, and Mexico. Initial observations are provided as fresh information from the field, drawing on six missions during the last nine months. Utility costs, interest rates, and overall economic health appear tomore » critically affect opportunities in each country. By contrast, details of heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) design and local climate were often important differences between countries. These affect opportunities, for example, to achieve significant savings from cooling systems or not. Looking at the success of ESCOs was somewhat surprising. One might expect to see the most successful ESCO activity where utility costs are high and upgrade opportunities are plentiful (such as in the Philippines). This was not the case, however, as research in the Philippines did not reveal even one active ESCO contract yet. Design practices for new construction were in need of the same thing that helps US design teams do a better job of energy-efficient design, better communications between design team members. Finally, industrial firms were doing a variety of EE upgrades in each country, but this level of activity was relatively small compared to what should be cost effective.« less

Development and manufacture of an investigational human living dermal equivalent (ICX-SKN).

PubMed

Flasza, Marzena; Kemp, Paul; Shering, David; Qiao, Jizeng; Marshall, Damian; Bokta, Ausha; Johnson, Penny A

2007-11-01

To design and manufacture an investigational living skin graft replacement (ICX-SKN) that is able to incorporate into the host, providing healing by primary intent without the need for a second intervention. The ICX-SKN skin graft replacement has been designed as an allogeneic dermal substitute comprising an extracellular matrix composed largely of human collagen and human dermal fibroblast cells (HDFs). ICX-SKN is first formed by casting a provisional matrix of fibrin, into which HDFs are seeded. Through a process of maturation, HDFs are induced to lay down collagen and other extracellular matrix materials and, as the construct matures, the original fibrin is largely replaced by collagen, which provides tensile strength and flexibility to the construct. In order to design a product and manufacturing system that lends itself to large-scale production the process was developed as a discontinuous process consisting of four stages: 1. batch casting and maturation of the initial construct (pSKN), 2. freeze-drying of pSKN to produce a second intermediate (dSKN), 3. sterilization by gamma-irradiation of dSKN to produce a third intermediate (sSKN), and finally, 4. repopulation of sSKN by fresh HDFs to produce the final product, ICX-SKN skin graft replacement. Preliminary characterization of ICX-SKN and its application in a preclinical model are described. The 7-week maturation period resulted in a construct (pSKN) with robust handling properties, which was composed mainly of human collagen I. Following development of a process for freeze-drying and subsequent sterilization, the matrix was successfully repopulated with fresh HDFs. In addition, it was demonstrated that human keratinocytes attached and differentiated on the matrix. Application of human keratinocytes to the repopulated constructs (ICX-SKN) resulted in expression of markers of basement membranes that was largely dependent on the presence of living HDFs on the constructs. ICX-SKN graft replacements applied to excision wounds in mice healed and were rapidly re-epithelialized. ICX-SKN has been developed as a platform product that can be used as a skin graft replacement and the process by which it is manufactured has been designed for the product to be available to the end-user off-the-shelf and for ease-of-use in practice.

Personal Factors Impacting College Student Success: Constructing College Learning Effectiveness Inventory (CLEI)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kim, Eunhee; Newton, Fred B.; Downey, Ronald G.; Benton, Stephen L.

2010-01-01

The College Learning Effectiveness Inventory, a new assessment tool identifying personal variables important to college student success, was constructed using empirical approaches grounded in a conceptual model. The exploratory and confirmatory studies revealed the six-underlying factors: Academic Self-Efficacy, Organization and Attention to…

A Java-based tool for the design of classification microarrays.

PubMed

Meng, Da; Broschat, Shira L; Call, Douglas R

2008-08-04

Classification microarrays are used for purposes such as identifying strains of bacteria and determining genetic relationships to understand the epidemiology of an infectious disease. For these cases, mixed microarrays, which are composed of DNA from more than one organism, are more effective than conventional microarrays composed of DNA from a single organism. Selection of probes is a key factor in designing successful mixed microarrays because redundant sequences are inefficient and limited representation of diversity can restrict application of the microarray. We have developed a Java-based software tool, called PLASMID, for use in selecting the minimum set of probe sequences needed to classify different groups of plasmids or bacteria. The software program was successfully applied to several different sets of data. The utility of PLASMID was illustrated using existing mixed-plasmid microarray data as well as data from a virtual mixed-genome microarray constructed from different strains of Streptococcus. Moreover, use of data from expression microarray experiments demonstrated the generality of PLASMID. In this paper we describe a new software tool for selecting a set of probes for a classification microarray. While the tool was developed for the design of mixed microarrays-and mixed-plasmid microarrays in particular-it can also be used to design expression arrays. The user can choose from several clustering methods (including hierarchical, non-hierarchical, and a model-based genetic algorithm), several probe ranking methods, and several different display methods. A novel approach is used for probe redundancy reduction, and probe selection is accomplished via stepwise discriminant analysis. Data can be entered in different formats (including Excel and comma-delimited text), and dendrogram, heat map, and scatter plot images can be saved in several different formats (including jpeg and tiff). Weights generated using stepwise discriminant analysis can be stored for analysis of subsequent experimental data. Additionally, PLASMID can be used to construct virtual microarrays with genomes from public databases, which can then be used to identify an optimal set of probes.

Designing and facilely synthesizing a series of cobalt nitride (Co4N) nanocatalysts as non-enzymatic glucose sensors: A comparative study toward the influences of material structures on electrocatalytic activities.

PubMed

Liu, Tingting; Li, Mian; Guo, Liping

2018-05-01

Designing high-efficiency electrocatalysts for glucose concentration detection plays a pivotal role in developing various non-enzymatic glucose detection devices. Herein, we have successfully designed and synthesized various cobalt nitrides (Co 4 N) by using different weak bases (i.e. hexamethylenetetramine (HMT), urea, and ammonium hydroxide (AH)) through nitridation treatment in ammonia (NH 3 ) atmosphere. Physical characterization results demonstrate that Co 4 N-NSs (nanosheets) with vast meso/macropores and large BET surface are successfully constructed once adding carbon paper and HMT into precursors. As the synergistic effect of metallic character of Co 4 N phase , excellent electroconductibility of pyrolytic carbon, and large surface area, Co 4 N-NSs surfaces can form more Co 4+ active sites in electrochemical reaction processes. Meanwhile, the abundant meso/macroporous structures constructed in Co 4 N-NSs further promoted its mass transfer ability. Benefitting from the above mentioned advantages, Co 4 N-NSs therefore exhibit more excellent glucose oxidation ability than another three control samples (i.e. Co 4 N-HMT, Co 4 N-Urea and Co 4 N-AH). When used for glucose detection, the optimal Co 4 N-NSs display excellent detection parameters as well, such as: a wide linear range of 0.6-10.0mM, a large sensitivity of 1137.2uAcm -2 mM -1 glucose, a low detection limit of 0.1µM, a small response time of 1.7s, good reproducibility and stability, and the excellent anti-interference to other electroactive molecules and Cl - . Upon utilized for measuring glucose concentrations in human blood serum samples, the detection results on Co 4 N-NSs are accurate and satisfying as well. This work opens a new possibility for boosting electrochemical catalysis abilities of Co 4 N samples by the structure design. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Functional Cellular Mimics for the Spatiotemporal Control of Multiple Enzymatic Cascade Reactions.

PubMed

Liu, Xiaoling; Formanek, Petr; Voit, Brigitte; Appelhans, Dietmar

2017-12-18

Next-generation therapeutic approaches are expected to rely on the engineering of biomimetic cellular systems that can mimic specific cellular functions. Herein, we demonstrate a highly effective route for constructing structural and functional eukaryotic cell mimics by loading pH-sensitive polymersomes as membrane-associated and free-floating organelle mimics inside the multifunctional cell membrane. Metabolism mimicry has been validated by performing successive enzymatic cascade reactions spatially separated at specific sites of cell mimics in the presence and absence of extracellular organelle mimics. These enzymatic reactions take place in a highly controllable, reproducible, efficient, and successive manner. Our biomimetic approach to material design for establishing functional principles brings considerable enrichment to the fields of biomedicine, biocatalysis, biotechnology, and systems biology. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Organ printing: from bioprinter to organ biofabrication line.

PubMed

Mironov, Vladimir; Kasyanov, Vladimir; Markwald, Roger R

2011-10-01

Organ printing, or the layer by layer additive robotic biofabrication of functional three-dimensional tissue and organ constructs using self-assembling tissue spheroid building blocks, is a rapidly emerging technology that promises to transform tissue engineering into a commercially successful biomedical industry. It is increasingly obvious that similar well-established industries implement automated robotic systems on the path to commercial translation and economic success. The use of robotic bioprinters alone however is not sufficient for the development of large industrial scale organ biofabrication. The design and development of a fully integrated organ biofabrication line is imperative for the commercial translation of organ printing technology. This paper presents recent progress and challenges in the development of the essential components of an organ biofabrication line. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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

Paul Higley; J. Robert Woolsey; Ralph Goodman

A Consortium, designed to assemble leaders in gas hydrates research, has been established at the University of Mississippi's Center for Marine Resources and Environmental Technology, CMRET. The primary objective of the group is to design and emplace a remote monitoring station on the sea floor in the northern Gulf of Mexico by the year 2005, in an area where gas hydrates are known to be present at, or just below, the sea floor. This mission necessitates assembling a station that will monitor physical and chemical parameters of the sea water and sea floor sediments on a more-or-less continuous basis overmore » an extended period of time. Development of the station allows for the possibility of expanding its capabilities to include biological monitoring, as a means of assessing environmental health. Establishment of the Consortium has succeeded in fulfilling the critical need to coordinate activities, avoid redundancies and communicate effectively among researchers in this relatively new research arena. Complementary expertise, both scientific and technical, has been assembled to promote innovative research methods and construct necessary instrumentation. Noteworthy achievements one year into the extended life of this cooperative agreement include: (1) Progress on the vertical line array (VLA) of sensors: (1a) Repair attempts of the VLA cable damaged in the October >1000m water depth deployment failed; a new design has been tested successfully. (1b) The acoustic modem damaged in the October deployment was repaired successfully. (1c) Additional acoustic modems with greater depth rating and the appropriate surface communications units have been purchased. (1d) The VLA computer system is being modified for real time communications to the surface vessel using radio telemetry and fiber optic cable. (1e) Positioning sensors--including compass and tilt sensors--were completed and tested. (1f) One of the VLAs has been redesigned to collect near sea floor geochemical data. (2) Progress on the Sea Floor Probe: (2a) With the Consortium's decision to divorce its activities from those of the Joint Industries Program (JIP), due to the JIP's selection of a site in 1300m of water, the Sea Floor Probe (SFP) system was revived as a means to emplace arrays in the shallow subsurface until arrangements can be made for boreholes at >1000m water depth. (2b) The SFP penetrometer has been designed and construction begun. (2c) The SFP geophysical and pore-fluid probes have been designed. (3) Progress on the Acoustic Systems for Monitoring Gas Hydrates: (3a) Video recordings of bubbles emitted from a seep in Mississippi Canyon have been analyzed for effects of currents and temperature changes. (3b) Several acoustic monitoring system concepts have been evaluated for their appropriateness to MC118, i.e., on the deep sea floor. (3c) A mock-up system was built but was rejected as too impractical for deployment on the sea floor. (4) Progress on the Electromagnetic Bubble Detector and Counter: (4a) Laboratory tests were performed using bubbles of different sizes in waters of different salinities to test the sensitivity of the. Differences were detected satisfactorily. (4b) The system was field tested, first at the dock and then at the shallow water test site at Cape Lookout Bight where methane bubbles from the sea floor, naturally, in 10m water depth. The system successfully detected peaks in bubbling as spike decreases in conductivity. (5) Progress on the Mid-Infrared Sensor for Continuous Methane Monitoring: (5a) Modeling and design of an optics platform complementary to the constructed electronics platform for successful incorporation into ''sphereIR'' continues. AutoCAD design and manual construction of mounting pieces for major optical components have been completed. (5b) Initial design concepts for IR-ATR sensor probe geometries have been established and evaluated. Initial evaluations of a horizontal ATR (HATR) sensing probe with fiber optic guiding light have been performed and validate the design concept as a potentially viable deep sea sensing probe. (5c) Ray tracing simulations have been performed to evaluate light propagation through HATR elements to facilitate the optimal design of both the sensing probe and optical configuration of ''sphereIR''. (5d) The highly permeable polymer, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), was investigated as a potential methane enrichment membrane for IR-ATR sensors. (6) Progress on the Seismo-acoustic Characterization of Sea Floor Properties and Processes at the Hydrate Monitoring Station: (6a) All system components underwent extensive testing in preparation for determining sea floor acoustic reflection responses at the Gas Hydrate Monitoring Station. (6b) Final testing and commissioning have been completed.« less

Design of an unmanned, reusable vehicle to de-orbit debris in Earth orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Aziz, Shahed; Cunningham, Timothy W.; Moore-Mccassey, Michelle

1990-01-01

The space debris problem is becoming more important because as orbital missions increase, the amount of debris increases. It was the design team's objective to present alternative designs and a problem solution for a deorbiting vehicle that will alleviate the problem by reducing the amount of large debris in earth orbit. The design team was asked to design a reusable, unmanned vehicle to de-orbit debris in earth orbit. The design team will also construct a model to demonstrate the system configuration and key operating features. The alternative designs for the unmanned, reusable vehicle were developed in three stages: selection of project requirements and success criteria, formulation of a specification list, and the creation of alternatives that would satisfy the standards set forth by the design team and their sponsor. The design team selected a Chain and Bar Shot method for deorbiting debris in earth orbit. The De-orbiting Vehicle (DOV) uses the NASA Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle (OMV) as the propulsion and command modules with the deorbiting module attached to the front.

Puget Sound Tidal Energy In-Water Testing and Development Project Final Technical Report

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

Collar, Craig W

2012-11-16

Tidal energy represents potential for the generation of renewable, emission free, environmentally benign, and cost effective energy from tidal flows. A successful tidal energy demonstration project in Puget Sound, Washington may enable significant commercial development resulting in important benefits for the northwest region and the nation. This project promoted the United States Department of Energy's Wind and Hydropower Technologies Program's goals of advancing the commercial viability, cost-competitiveness, and market acceptance of marine hydrokinetic systems. The objective of the Puget Sound Tidal Energy Demonstration Project is to conduct in-water testing and evaluation of tidal energy technology as a first step towardmore » potential construction of a commercial-scale tidal energy power plant. The specific goal of the project phase covered by this award was to conduct all activities necessary to complete engineering design and obtain construction approvals for a pilot demonstration plant in the Admiralty Inlet region of the Puget Sound. Public Utility District No. 1 of Snohomish County (The District) accomplished the objectives of this award through four tasks: Detailed Admiralty Inlet Site Studies, Plant Design and Construction Planning, Environmental and Regulatory Activities, and Management and Reporting. Pre-Installation studies completed under this award provided invaluable data used for site selection, environmental evaluation and permitting, plant design, and construction planning. However, these data gathering efforts are not only important to the Admiralty Inlet pilot project. Lessons learned, in particular environmental data gathering methods, can be applied to future tidal energy projects in the United States and other parts of the world. The District collaborated extensively with project stakeholders to complete the tasks for this award. This included Federal, State, and local government agencies, tribal governments, environmental groups, and others. All required permit and license applications were completed and submitted under this award, including a Final License Application for a pilot hydrokinetic license from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The tasks described above have brought the project through all necessary requirements to construct a tidal pilot project in Admiralty Inlet with the exception of final permit and license approvals, and the selection of a general contractor to perform project construction.« less

Theoretical framework of the causes of construction time and cost overruns

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ullah, K.; Abdullah, A. H.; Nagapan, S.; Suhoo, S.; Khan, M. S.

2017-11-01

Any construction practitioner fundamental goal is to complete the projects within estimated duration and budgets, and expected quality targets. However, time and cost overruns are regular and universal phenomenon in construction projects and the construction projects in Malaysia has no exemption from the problems of time overrun and cost overrun. In order to accomplish the successful completion of construction projects on specified time and within planned cost, there are various factors that should be given serious attention so that issues such as time and cost overrun can be addressed. This paper aims to construct a framework for the causes of time overrun and cost overrun in construction projects of Malaysia. Based on the relevant literature review, causative factors of time overrun and cost overrun in Malaysian construction projects are summarized and the theoretical frameworks of the causes of construction time overrun and cost overrun is constructed. The developed frameworks for construction time and cost overruns based on the existing literature will assist the construction practitioners to plan the efficient approaches for achieving successful completion of the projects.

Design and construction of a home-made and cheaper argon arc lamp

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sabaeian, Mohammad; Nazari-Tarkarani, Zeinab; Ebrahimzadeh, Azadeh

2018-05-01

The authors report on the design and construction of an argon arc lamp which provides noticeably a cheaper instrument for laser and medical applications. Cesium-doped tungsten and pure tungsten rods were used, respectively, for the lamp cathode and anode. To seal the glassy tube, a 50-50 Fe-Ni alloy was successfully used as a medium to attach the tungsten electrodes to the borosilicate glass tube. Starting voltage of the lamp versus the gas pressure, operation voltage-current diagram at various gas pressures, and lamp spectrum in the various pressures were measured. A comparison was made with krypton arc lamp. The lamp operation was satisfactory without any crack or fracture during lightening operation. The results showed that the lamp-lightening threshold voltage depends linearly on the pressure and arc length in such a way that there is an increase in the voltage by raising these two parameters. We have also observed that by increasing the argon pressure, there is a shifting in emission spectrum from the ultraviolet to the visible region. Comparison with krypton arc lamp indicated that argon lamp needs a higher threshold lightening voltage.

The application of embodied conversational agents for mentoring African American STEM doctoral students

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gosha, Kinnis

This dissertation presents the design, development and short-term evaluation of an embodied conversational agent designed to mentor human users. An embodied conversational agent (ECA) was created and programmed to mentor African American computer science majors on their decision to pursue graduate study in computing. Before constructing the ECA, previous research in the fields of embodied conversational agents, relational agents, mentorship, telementorship and successful mentoring programs and practices for African American graduate students were reviewed. A survey used to find areas of interest of the sample population. Experts were then interviewed to collect information on those areas of interest and a dialogue for the ECA was constructed based on the interview's transcripts. A between-group, mixed method experiment was conducted with 37 African American male undergraduate computer science majors where one group used the ECA mentor while the other group pursued mentoring advice from a human mentor. Results showed no significant difference between the ECA and human mentor when dealing with career mentoring functions. However, the human mentor was significantly better than the ECA mentor when addressing psychosocial mentoring functions.

Progress of a room temperature electron cyclotron resonance ion source using evaporative cooling technology at Institute of Modern Physics.

PubMed

Lu, W; Xiong, B; Zhang, X Z; Sun, L T; Feng, Y C; Ma, B H; Guo, S Q; Cao, R; Ruan, L; Zhao, H W

2014-02-01

A new room temperature ECR ion source, Lanzhou Electron Cyclotron Resonance ion source No. 4 (LECR4, previously named DRAGON), is under intense construction at Institute of Modern Physics. LECR4 is designed to operate with 18 GHz microwave frequency. The maximum axial magnetic fields are 2.3 T at injection and 1.3 T at extraction, and the radial field at the plasma chamber wall of 76 mm inner diameter is 1.0-1.2 T. One of the unique features for LECR4 is that its axial solenoids are winded with solid square copper wires which are immersed in a kind of special evaporative cooling medium for cooling purpose. Till now, a prototype of the cooling system has been successfully constructed and tested, which has demonstrated that the cooling efficiency of the designed system could meet the requirements of LECR4 under the routine operation conditions. All the main components of the ion source have been completed. Assembly and commissioning is ongoing. The latest developments and test results will be presented in this paper.

Construction and commissioning of the compact energy-recovery linac at KEK

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akemoto, Mitsuo; Arakawa, Dai; Asaoka, Seiji; Cenni, Enrico; Egi, Masato; Enami, Kazuhiro; Endo, Kuninori; Fukuda, Shigeki; Furuya, Takaaki; Haga, Kaiichi; Hajima, Ryoichi; Hara, Kazufumi; Harada, Kentaro; Honda, Tohru; Honda, Yosuke; Honma, Teruya; Hosoyama, Kenji; Kako, Eiji; Katagiri, Hiroaki; Kawata, Hiroshi; Kobayashi, Yukinori; Kojima, Yuuji; Kondou, Yoshinari; Tanaka, Olga; Kume, Tatsuya; Kuriki, Masao; Matsumura, Hiroshi; Matsushita, Hideki; Michizono, Shinichiro; Miura, Takako; Miyajima, Tsukasa; Nagahashi, Shinya; Nagai, Ryoji; Nakai, Hirotaka; Nakajima, Hiromitsu; Nakamura, Norio; Nakanishi, Kota; Nigorikawa, Kazuyuki; Nishimori, Nobuyuki; Nogami, Takashi; Noguchi, Shuichi; Obina, Takashi; Qiu, Feng; Sagehashi, Hidenori; Sakai, Hiroshi; Sakanaka, Shogo; Sasaki, Shinichi; Satoh, Kotaro; Sawamura, Masaru; Shimada, Miho; Shinoe, Kenji; Shishido, Toshio; Tadano, Mikito; Takahashi, Takeshi; Takai, Ryota; Takenaka, Tateru; Tanimoto, Yasunori; Uchiyama, Takashi; Ueda, Akira; Umemori, Kensei; Watanabe, Ken; Yamamoto, Masahiro

2018-01-01

Energy-recovery linacs (ERLs) are promising for advanced synchrotron light sources, high-power free electron lasers (FELs), high-brightness gamma-ray sources, and electron-ion colliders. To demonstrate the critical technology of ERL-based light sources, we have designed and constructed a test accelerator, the compact ERL (cERL). Using advanced technology that includes a photocathode direct current (DC) electron gun and two types of 1.3-GHz-frequency superconducting cavities, the cERL was designed to be capable of recirculating low emittance (≤1 mm ṡ mrad) and high average-current (≥10 mA) electron beams while recovering the beam energy. During initial commissioning, the cERL demonstrated successful recirculation of high-quality beams with normalized transverse emittance of ∼0.14 mm ṡ mrad and momentum spread of ∼1.2 × 10-4 (rms) at a beam energy of 20 MeV and bunch charge below 100 fC. Energy recovery in the superconducting main linac was also demonstrated for high-average-current continuous-wave beams. These results constitute an important milestone toward realizing ERL-based light sources.

Design and development of a Gadolinium-doped water Cherenkov detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Poudyal, Nabin

This thesis describes a research and development project for neutron capture and detection in Gadolinium doped water. The Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) is exploring rare event physics, such as neutrinoless double beta decay (MAJORANA Project) and dark-matter detection (LUX experiment). The success of these experiments requires a careful study and understanding of background radiation, including flux and energy spectrum. The background radiation from surface contamination, radioactive decays of U-238, Th-232, Rn-222 in the surrounding rocks and muon induced neutrons have a large impact on the success of rare-event physics. The main objective of this R&D project is to measure the neutron flux contributing to ongoing experiments at SURF and suppress it by identification and capture method. For this purpose, we first modeled and designed a detector with Geant4 software. The approximate dimension of the detector is determined. The neutron capture percentage of the detector is estimated using Monte Carlo. The energy response of the detector is simulated. Next, we constructed the experimental detector, an acrylic rectangular tank (60cm x 30cm x 30cm), filled with Gadolinium-doped deionized water. The tank is coated with high efficient reflector and then taped with black electrical tape to make it opaque. The voltage dividers attached to PMTs are covered with mu-metal. Two 5-inch Hamamatsu Photomultiplier tubes were attached on both sides facing the tank to collect the Cherenkov light produced in the water. The detector utilizes the principle of Cherenkov light emission by a charged particle moving through a water at a speed higher than the speed of light in the water, hence it has an inherent energy threshold of Cherenkov photon production. This property reduces the lower energy backgrounds. Event data are obtained using the Data Acquisition hardware, Flash Analog to digital converter, along with Multi Instance Data Acquisition software. Post-experimental analysis was performed using ROOT software. Position calibration of the detector shows that the detector is position independent. We have designed and constructed the Gd-doped neutron detector which successfully detects the neutrons with low cost and high efficiency.

A comparison of the Shuttle remote manipulator system and the Space Station Freedom mobile servicing center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Taylor, Edith C.; Ross, Michael

1989-01-01

The Shuttle Remote Manipulator System is a mature system which has successfully completed 18 flights. Its primary functional design driver was the capability to deploy and retrieve payloads from the Orbiter cargo bay. The Space Station Freedom Mobile Servicing Center is still in the requirements definition and early design stage. Its primary function design drivers are the capabilities: to support Space Station construction and assembly tasks; to provide external transportation about the Space Station; to provide handling capabilities for the Orbiter, free flyers, and payloads; to support attached payload servicing in the extravehicular environment; and to perform scheduled and un-scheduled maintenance on the Space Station. The differences between the two systems in the area of geometric configuration, mobility, sensor capabilities, control stations, control algorithms, handling performance, end effector dexterity, and fault tolerance are discussed.

Evaluating the performance of free-formed surface parts using an analytic network process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qian, Xueming; Ma, Yanqiao; Liang, Dezhi

2018-03-01

To successfully design parts with a free-formed surface, the critical issue of how to evaluate and select a favourable evaluation strategy before design is raised. The evaluation of free-formed surface parts is a multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem that requires the consideration of a large number of interdependent factors. The analytic network process (ANP) is a relatively new MCDM method that can systematically deal with all kinds of dependences. In this paper, the factors, which come from the life-cycle and influence the design of free-formed surface parts, are proposed. After analysing the interdependence among these factors, a Hybrid ANP (HANP) structure for evaluating the part’s curved surface is constructed. Then, a HANP evaluation of an impeller is presented to illustrate the application of the proposed method.

Curriculum Alignment Projects: Toward Developing a Need to Know

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pinkerton, K. David

2001-02-01

This study investigated means of designing a high school chemistry curriculum. A Curriculum Alignment Project (CAP) was used to coordinate one semester (18 weeks) of activities. CAPs are long-term, multiple-approach design and construction projects that provide students a concrete task to accomplish, rather than an abstract theme to appreciate. Topics were selected for their potential contribution to students' success on the CAP, not because the topics were coming up next in a textbook. One particular CAP, Bicarbonate Squeeze Play, is described in detail. After one cycle of CAPs, student motivation began to change from extrinsic to intrinsic; achievement on objective measures was holding steady; students' abilities to craft and carry out long-term plans for complex projects were improving; and the teacher was learning how to design curriculum that fostered students' need to know.

[The application progress of 3D printing technology in ophthalmology].

PubMed

Ji, Z K; Zhao, Y; Yu, S S; Zhao, H

2018-01-11

3D printing is a kind of technology that makes 3D models from computer-aided designs through additive manufacturing, in which successive layers of the material are deposited onto underlying layers to construct 3D objects. In recent years, 3D printing is gradually applied in the field of ophthalmology, such as the cornea, retina, orbital operation, ocular tumor radiotherapy, ocular implants and ophthalmology teaching. This article reviews the application status of 3D printing technology in the basic research and clinical treatment in ophthalmology. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2018, 54: 72-76) .

Designed synthesis and supramolecular architectures of furan-substituted perylene diimide.

PubMed

Yu, Yanwen; Li, Yongjun; Qin, Zhihong; Jiang, Runsheng; Liu, Huibiao; Li, Yuliang

2013-06-01

Novel furan-substituted perylene diimides are successfully synthesized and an efficient supramolecular architecture approach to construct zero/one-dimensional nano- and micro-structures by controlling solvents has been demonstrated. The aggregate structure conversion in different molecular structures can be controlled in the form of sphere-like, rod-like, and vesicle-like structures. As expected, these solid supramolecular rod-like architectures displayed interesting optical waveguide behavior, which indicates the aggregate structure materials of furan-substituted perylene diimides have the potential application as micro-scale photonic elements. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Flexibility of space structures makes design shaky

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hearth, D. P.; Boyer, W. J.

1985-01-01

An evaluation is made of the development status of high stiffness space structures suitable for orbital construction or deployment of large diameter reflector antennas, with attention to the control system capabilities required by prospective space structure system types. The very low structural frequencies typical of very large, radio frequency antenna structures would be especially difficult for a control system to counteract. Vibration control difficulties extend across the frequency spectrum, even to optical and IR reflector systems. Current research and development efforts are characterized with respect to goals and prospects for success.

Permanent Magnetic Bearing for Spacecraft Applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morales, Winfredo; Fusaro, Robert; Kascak, Albert

2008-01-01

A permanent, totally passive magnetic bearing rig was designed, constructed, and tested. The suspension of the rotor was provided by two sets of radial permanent magnetic bearings operating in the repulsive mode. The axial support was provided by jewel bearings on both ends of the rotor. The rig was successfully operated to speeds of 5500 rpm using an air impeller. Radial and axial stiffnesses of the permanent magnetic bearings were experimentally measured and then compared to finite element results. The natural damping of the rotor was measured and a damping coefficient was calculated.

The morphological development of newly inundated intertidal areas: the mechanisms driving the early evolution of an estuarine environment designed and constructed by humans

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dale, Jonathan; Burgess, Heidi; Cundy, Andrew

2017-04-01

Intertidal saltmarsh and mudflat habitats are of global importance due to the ecosystem, economic and cultural services they provide. These services include wildlife habitat provision and species diversity, immobilisation of pollutants and protection from coastal flooding. Saltmarsh and mudflat environments are, however, being lost and degraded due to erosion caused by rising sea levels and increased storminess. These losses are exacerbated by anthropogenic influences including land reclamation, increased coastal development and the construction of coastal flood defences which prevent the landwards migration of saltmarsh and mudflat environments, resulting in coastal squeeze. To compensate for saltmarsh and mudflat losses areas of the coastal hinterland are being inundated by breaching defences and constructing new defences inland, thus extending or constructing new estuarine environments; a processes known as de-embankment or managed realignment. Morphological engineering and landscaping within managed realignment sites prior to site inundation varies depending on the aims of the scheme. However, there is a shortage of data on the morphological evolution within these sites post site inundation impeding the ability of coastal engineers to effectively design and construct future sites. To date there has been a focus on the colonisation of marine macro fauna and flora within newly inundated managed realignment sites, which can be relatively rapid and easily quantified. Little is known of the morphological evolution in response to altered sedimentary processes, its driving mechanisms and therefore the success and ecological sustainability of these sites. This study evaluates the post-inundation morphological development of the largest open coast managed realignment site in Europe, at Medmerry on the south coast of the United Kingdom. Inundated in September 2013, the Medmerry Managed Realignment Site consists of a mosaic of former agricultural land and areas of lower elevation excavated during site construction, drained by a series of natural and engineered channels. Results indicate different rates and patterns of sedimentation and resulting morphology across the site. Near the breach continuous sedimentation of > 15cm over a 1 year period was measured, compared to rhythmic periods of accretion and erosion inland. These variations have been related to site design, former land-use and different sediment sources. The evolution of developing creek networks, formed by pluvial action and sediment "piping", are controlled by unconformities found in the sub-surface sediment related to Holocene site evolution. Analysis of the sedimentary processes and subsequent morphological development of these areas provides a new insight into coastal and estuarine evolution in an anthropogenically designed and constructed estuarine environment.

Equivalent model construction for a non-linear dynamic system based on an element-wise stiffness evaluation procedure and reduced analysis of the equivalent system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Euiyoung; Cho, Maenghyo

2017-11-01

In most non-linear analyses, the construction of a system matrix uses a large amount of computation time, comparable to the computation time required by the solving process. If the process for computing non-linear internal force matrices is substituted with an effective equivalent model that enables the bypass of numerical integrations and assembly processes used in matrix construction, efficiency can be greatly enhanced. A stiffness evaluation procedure (STEP) establishes non-linear internal force models using polynomial formulations of displacements. To efficiently identify an equivalent model, the method has evolved such that it is based on a reduced-order system. The reduction process, however, makes the equivalent model difficult to parameterize, which significantly affects the efficiency of the optimization process. In this paper, therefore, a new STEP, E-STEP, is proposed. Based on the element-wise nature of the finite element model, the stiffness evaluation is carried out element-by-element in the full domain. Since the unit of computation for the stiffness evaluation is restricted by element size, and since the computation is independent, the equivalent model can be constructed efficiently in parallel, even in the full domain. Due to the element-wise nature of the construction procedure, the equivalent E-STEP model is easily characterized by design parameters. Various reduced-order modeling techniques can be applied to the equivalent system in a manner similar to how they are applied in the original system. The reduced-order model based on E-STEP is successfully demonstrated for the dynamic analyses of non-linear structural finite element systems under varying design parameters.

Waste-efficient materials procurement for construction projects: A structural equation modelling of critical success factors.

PubMed

Ajayi, Saheed O; Oyedele, Lukumon O

2018-05-01

Albeit the understanding that construction waste is caused by activities ranging from all stages of project delivery process, research efforts have been concentrated on design and construction stages, while the possibility of reducing waste through materials procurement process is widely neglected. This study aims at exploring and confirming strategies for achieving waste-efficient materials procurement in construction activities. The study employs sequential exploratory mixed method approach as its methodological framework, using focus group discussion, statistical analysis and structural equation modelling. The study suggests that for materials procurement to enhance waste minimisation in construction projects, the procurement process would be characterised by four features. These include suppliers' commitment to low waste measures, low waste purchase management, effective materials delivery management and waste-efficient Bill of Quantity, all of which have significant impacts on waste minimisation. This implies that commitment of materials suppliers to such measures as take back scheme and flexibility in supplying small materials quantity, among others, are expected of materials procurement. While low waste purchase management stipulates the need for such measures as reduced packaging and consideration of pre-assembled/pre-cut materials, efficient delivery management entails effective delivery and storage system as well as adequate protection of materials during the delivery process, among others. Waste-efficient specification and bill of quantity, on the other hand, requires accurate materials take-off and ordering of materials based on accurately prepared design documents and bill of quantity. Findings of this study could assist in understanding a set of measures that should be taken during materials procurement process, thereby corroborating waste management practices at other stages of project delivery process. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

24 CFR 941.203 - Design and construction standards.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 24 Housing and Urban Development 4 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Design and construction standards... URBAN DEVELOPMENT PUBLIC HOUSING DEVELOPMENT PHA Eligibility and Program Requirements § 941.203 Design and construction standards. (a) Physical structures shall be designed, constructed and equipped so as...

Orpheus recombination : a comprehensive bacteriophage system for murine targeting vector construction by transplacement.

PubMed

Woltjen, Knut; Ito, Kenichi; Tsuzuki, Teruhisa; Rancourt, Derrick E

2008-01-01

In recent years, methods to address the simplification of targeting vector (TV) construction have been developed and validated. Based on in vivo recombination in Escherichia coli, these protocols have reduced dependence on restriction endonucleases, allowing the fabrication of complex TV constructs with relative ease. Using a methodology based on phage-plasmid recombination, we have developed a comprehensive TV construction protocol dubbed Orpheus recombination (ORE). The ORE system addresses all necessary requirements for TV construction; from the isolation of genespecific regions of homology to the deposition of selection/disruption cassettes. ORE makes use of a small recombination plasmid, which bears positive and negative selection markers and a cloned homologous "probe" region. This probe plasmid may be introduced into and excised from phage-borne murine genomic clones by two rounds of single crossover recombination. In this way, desired clones can be specifically isolated from a heterogeneous library of phage. Furthermore, if the probe region contains a designed mutation, it may be deposited seamlessly into the genomic clone. The complete removal of operational sequences allows unlimited repetition of the procedure to customize and finalize TVs within a few weeks. Successful gene-specific clone isolation, point mutations, large deletions, cassette insertions, and finally coincident clone isolation and mutagenesis have all been demonstrated with this method.

Using Students' Representations Constructed during Problem Solving to Infer Conceptual Understanding

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Domin, Daniel; Bodner, George

2012-01-01

The differences in the types of representations constructed during successful and unsuccessful problem-solving episodes were investigated within the context of graduate students working on problems that involve concepts from 2D-NMR. Success at problem solving was established by having the participants solve five problems relating to material just…

Reading on the Internet: Realizing and Constructing Potential Texts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cho, Byeong-Young; Afflerbach, Peter

2015-01-01

Successful Internet reading requires making strategic decisions about what texts to read and a sequence for reading them, all in accordance with readers' goals. In this paper, we describe the process of realizing and constructing potential texts as an important and critical part of successful Internet reading and use verbal report data to…

Dual-Spool Turbine Facility Design Overview

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Giel, Paul; Pachlhofer, Pete

2003-01-01

The next generation of aircraft engines, both commercial and military, will attempt to capitalize on the benefits of close-coupled, vaneless, counter-rotating turbine systems. Experience has shown that significant risks and challenges are present with close-coupled systems in terms of efficiency and durability. The UEET program needs to demonstrate aerodynamic loading and efficiency goals for close-coupled, reduced-stage HP/LP turbine systems as a Level 1 Milestone for FY05. No research facility exists in the U.S. to provide risk reduction for successful development of close-coupled, high and low pressure turbine systems for the next generations of engines. To meet these objectives, the design, construction, and integrated systems testing of a Dual-Spool Turbine Facility (DSTF) facility has been initiated at the NASA Glenn Research Center. The facility will be a warm (-IOOO'F), continuous flow facility for overall aerodynamic performance and detailed flow field measurement acquisition. The facility will have state-of-the-art instrumentation to capture flow physics details. Accurate and reliable speed control will be achieved by utilizing the existing Variable Frequency Drive System. Utilization of this and other existing GRC centralized utilities will reduce the overall construction costs. The design allows for future installation of a turbine inlet combustor profile simulator. This presentation details the objectives of the facility and the concepts used in specifying its capabilities. Some preliminary design results will be presented along with a discussion of plans and schedules.

Strategies and techniques to enhance constructed wetland performance for sustainable wastewater treatment.

PubMed

Wu, Haiming; Fan, Jinlin; Zhang, Jian; Ngo, Huu Hao; Guo, Wenshan; Liang, Shuang; Hu, Zhen; Liu, Hai

2015-10-01

Constructed wetlands (CWs) have been used as an alternative to conventional technologies for wastewater treatment for more than five decades. Recently, the use of various modified CWs to improve treatment performance has also been reported in the literature. However, the available knowledge on various CW technologies considering the intensified and reliable removal of pollutants is still limited. Hence, this paper aims to provide an overview of the current development of CW strategies and techniques for enhanced wastewater treatment. Basic information on configurations and characteristics of different innovations was summarized. Then, overall treatment performance of those systems and their shortcomings were further discussed. Lastly, future perspectives were also identified for specialists to design more effective and sustainable CWs. This information is used to inspire some novel intensifying methodologies, and benefit the successful applications of potential CW technologies.

Using Green Building As A Model For Making Health Promotion Standard In The Built Environment.

PubMed

Trowbridge, Matthew J; Worden, Kelly; Pyke, Christopher

2016-11-01

The built environment-the constructed physical parts of the places where people live and work-is a powerful determinant of both individual and population health. Awareness of the link between place and health is growing within the public health sector and among built environment decision makers working in design, construction, policy, and both public and private finance. However, these decision makers lack the knowledge, tools, and capacity to ensure that health and well-being are routinely considered across all sectors of the built environment. The green building industry has successfully established environmental sustainability as a normative part of built environment practice, policy making, and investment. We explore the value of this industry's experience as a template for promoting health and well-being in the built environment. Project HOPE—The People-to-People Health Foundation, Inc.

Tissue Engineering Strategies for Myocardial Regeneration: Acellular Versus Cellular Scaffolds?

PubMed

Domenech, Maribella; Polo-Corrales, Lilliana; Ramirez-Vick, Jaime E; Freytes, Donald O

2016-12-01

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in industrialized nations with myocardial infarction (MI) contributing to at least one fifth of the reported deaths. The hypoxic environment eventually leads to cellular death and scar tissue formation. The scar tissue that forms is not mechanically functional and often leads to myocardial remodeling and eventual heart failure. Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine principles provide an alternative approach to restoring myocardial function by designing constructs that will restore the mechanical function of the heart. In this review, we will describe the cellular events that take place after an MI and describe current treatments. We will also describe how biomaterials, alone or in combination with a cellular component, have been used to engineer suitable myocardium replacement constructs and how new advanced culture systems will be required to achieve clinical success.

The construction and operation of a water tunnel in application to flow visualization studies of an oscillating airfoil

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Olsen, J. H.; Liu, H. T.

1973-01-01

The water tunnel which was constructed at the NASA Ames Research Center is described along with the flow field adjacent to an oscillating airfoil. The design and operational procedures of the tunnel are described in detail. Hydrogen bubble and thymol blue techniques are used to visualize the flow field. Results of the flow visualizations are presented in a series of still pictures and a high speed movie. These results show that time stall is more complicated than simple shedding from the leading edge or the trailing edge, particularly at relatively low frequency oscillations comparable to those of a helicopter blade. Therefore, any successful theory for predicting the stall loads on the helicopter blades must treat an irregular separated region rather than a discrete vortex passing over each blade surface.

Implementation of data node in spatial information grid based on WS resource framework and WS notification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Dengrong; Yu, Le

2006-10-01

Abstract-An approach of constructing a data node in spatial information grid (SIG) based on Web Service Resource Framework (WSRF) and Web Service Notification (WSN) is described in this paper. Attentions are paid to construct and implement SIG's resource layer, which is the most important part. A study on this layer find out, it is impossible to require persistent interaction with the clients of the services in common SIG architecture because of inheriting "stateless" and "not persistent" limitations of Web Service. A WSRF/WSN-based data node is designed to hurdle this short comes. Three different access modes are employed to test the availability of this node. Experimental results demonstrate this service node can successfully respond to standard OGC requests and returns specific spatial data in different network environment, also is stateful, dynamic and persistent.

NASA Langley Low Speed Aeroacoustic Wind Tunnel: Background Noise and Flow Survey Results Prior to FY05 Construction of Facilities Modifications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Booth, Earl R., Jr.; Henderson, Brenda S.

2005-01-01

The NASA Langley Research Center Low Speed Aeroacoustic Wind Tunnel is a premier facility for model-scale testing of jet noise reduction concepts at realistic flow conditions. However, flow inside the open jet test section is less than optimum. A Construction of Facilities project, scheduled for FY 05, will replace the flow collector with a new design intended to reduce recirculation in the open jet test section. The reduction of recirculation will reduce background noise levels measured by a microphone array impinged by the recirculation flow and will improve flow characteristics in the open jet tunnel flow. In order to assess the degree to which this modification is successful, background noise levels and tunnel flow are documented, in order to establish a baseline, in this report.

Construction and Development of CRM Technology and Industry Chain in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Chunnian; Wang, Yonglong; Pan, Qin

CRM is any application or initiative designed to help an organization optimize interactions with customers, suppliers, or prospects via one or more touch points. CRM has been interpreted and used in different ways by researchers in the various disciplines and researchers have identified a variety of technologies related to CRM. This paper highlights the implementation from the technology level and contributes to some successful factors in CRM application. The development of CRM is not fully developed in China. There are many critical factors that determine the CRM market development. Construction and development of CRM industry chain in China is a valuable research field and the paper provided some suggestions and analyses on it. In future, it requires our joint efforts of many aspects from every walk of life to make sure that CRM industry chain can improve and maturate gradually.

The magnet system of the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC)

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

Greene, A.; Anerella, M.; Cozzolino, J.

1995-07-01

The Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider now under construction at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) is a colliding ring accelerator to be completed in 1999. Through collisions of heavy ions it is hoped to observe the creation of matter at extremely high temperatures and densities, similar to what may have occurred in the original ``Big Bang.`` The collider rings will consist of 1740 superconducting magnet elements. Some of elements are being manufactured by industrial partners (Northrop Grumman and Everson Electric). Others are being constructed or assembled at BNL. A description is given of the magnet designs, the plan for manufacturing and testmore » results. In the manufacturing of the magnets, emphasis has been placed on uniformity of their performance and on quality. Results so far indicate that this emphasis has been very successful.« less

The magnet system of the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC)

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

Greene, A.; Anerella, M.; Cozzolino, J.

1996-07-01

The Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider now under construction at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) is a colliding ring accelerator to be completed in 1999. Through collisions of heavy ions it is hoped to observe the creation of matter at extremely high temperatures and densities, similar to what may have occurred in the original ``Big Bang``. The collider rings will consist of 1,740 superconducting magnet elements. Some of these elements are being manufactured by industrial partners (Northrop Grumman and Everson Electric). Others are being constructed or assembled at BNL. A description is given of the magnet designs, the plan for manufacturing andmore » test results. In the manufacturing of the magnets, emphasis has been placed on uniformity of their performance and on quality. Results so far indicate that this emphasis has been very successful.« less

Using a Malcolm Baldrige framework to understand high-performing clinical microsystems.

PubMed

Foster, Tina C; Johnson, Julie K; Nelson, Eugene C; Batalden, Paul B

2007-10-01

BACKGROUND, OBJECTIVES AND METHOD: The Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA) provides a set of criteria for organisational quality assessment and improvement that has been used by thousands of business, healthcare and educational organisations for more than a decade. The criteria can be used as a tool for self-evaluation, and are widely recognised as a robust framework for design and evaluation of healthcare systems. The clinical microsystem, as an organisational construct, is a systems approach for providing clinical care based on theories from organisational development, leadership and improvement. This study compared the MBNQA criteria for healthcare and the success factors of high-performing clinical microsystems to (1) determine whether microsystem success characteristics cover the same range of issues addressed by the Baldrige criteria and (2) examine whether this comparison might better inform our understanding of either framework. Both Baldrige criteria and microsystem success characteristics cover a wide range of areas crucial to high performance. Those particularly called out by this analysis are organisational leadership, work systems and service processes from a Baldrige standpoint, and leadership, performance results, process improvement, and information and information technology from the microsystem success characteristics view. Although in many cases the relationship between Baldrige criteria and microsystem success characteristics are obvious, in others the analysis points to ways in which the Baldrige criteria might be better understood and worked with by a microsystem through the design of work systems and a deep understanding of processes. Several tools are available for those who wish to engage in self-assessment based on MBNQA criteria and microsystem characteristics.

Using a Malcolm Baldrige framework to understand high‐performing clinical microsystems

PubMed Central

Foster, Tina C; Johnson, Julie K; Nelson, Eugene C; Batalden, Paul B

2007-01-01

Background, objectives and method The Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA) provides a set of criteria for organisational quality assessment and improvement that has been used by thousands of business, healthcare and educational organisations for more than a decade. The criteria can be used as a tool for self‐evaluation, and are widely recognised as a robust framework for design and evaluation of healthcare systems. The clinical microsystem, as an organisational construct, is a systems approach for providing clinical care based on theories from organisational development, leadership and improvement. This study compared the MBNQA criteria for healthcare and the success factors of high‐performing clinical microsystems to (1) determine whether microsystem success characteristics cover the same range of issues addressed by the Baldrige criteria and (2) examine whether this comparison might better inform our understanding of either framework. Results and conclusions Both Baldrige criteria and microsystem success characteristics cover a wide range of areas crucial to high performance. Those particularly called out by this analysis are organisational leadership, work systems and service processes from a Baldrige standpoint, and leadership, performance results, process improvement, and information and information technology from the microsystem success characteristics view. Although in many cases the relationship between Baldrige criteria and microsystem success characteristics are obvious, in others the analysis points to ways in which the Baldrige criteria might be better understood and worked with by a microsystem through the design of work systems and a deep understanding of processes. Several tools are available for those who wish to engage in self‐assessment based on MBNQA criteria and microsystem characteristics. PMID:17913773

Hospital readiness for health information exchange: development of metrics associated with successful collaboration for quality improvement

PubMed Central

Korst, Lisa M.; Aydin, Carolyn E.; Signer, Jordana M. K.; Fink, Arlene

2011-01-01

Objective The development of readiness metrics for organizational participation in health information exchange is critical for monitoring progress toward, and achievement of, successful inter-organizational collaboration. In preparation for the development of a tool to measure readiness for data-sharing, we tested whether organizational capacities known to be related to readiness were associated with successful participation in an American data-sharing collaborative for quality improvement. Design Cross-sectional design, using an on-line survey of hospitals in a large, mature data-sharing collaborative organized for benchmarking and improvement in nursing care quality. Measurements Factor analysis was used to identify salient constructs, and identified factors were analyzed with respect to “successful” participation. “Success” was defined as the incorporation of comparative performance data into the hospital dashboard. Results The most important factor in predicting success included survey items measuring the strength of organizational leadership in fostering a culture of quality improvement (QI Leadership): 1) presence of a supportive hospital executive; 2) the extent to which a hospital values data; 3) the presence of leaders’ vision for how the collaborative advances the hospital’s strategic goals; 4) hospital use of the collaborative data to track quality outcomes; and 5) staff recognition of a strong mandate for collaborative participation (α = 0.84, correlation with Success 0.68 [P < 0.0001]). Conclusion The data emphasize the importance of hospital QI Leadership in collaboratives that aim to share data for QI or safety purposes. Such metrics should prove useful in the planning and development of this complex form of inter-organizational collaboration. PMID:21330191

Constructability issues on KyTC projects.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-07-01

A successful constructibility review process for a transportation agency must follow an established methodology similar to value engineering. The process must be flexible and address the critical issues impacting transportation construction projects,...

NASA/MOD Operations Impacts from Shuttle Program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fitzpatrick, Michael; Mattes, Gregory; Grabois, Michael; Griffith, Holly

2011-01-01

Operations plays a pivotal role in the success of any human spaceflight program. This paper will highlight some of the core tenets of spaceflight operations from a systems perspective and use several examples from the Space Shuttle Program to highlight where the success and safety of a mission can hinge upon the preparedness and competency of the operations team. Further, awareness of the types of operations scenarios and impacts that can arise during human crewed space missions can help inform design and mission planning decisions long before a vehicle gets into orbit. A strong operations team is crucial to the development of future programs; capturing the lessons learned from the successes and failures of a past program will allow for safer, more efficient, and better designed programs in the future. No matter how well a vehicle is designed and constructed, there are always unexpected events or failures that occur during space flight missions. Preparation, training, real-time execution, and troubleshooting are skills and values of the Mission Operations Directorate (MOD) flight controller; these operational standards have proven invaluable to the Space Shuttle Program. Understanding and mastery of these same skills will be required of any operations team as technology advances and new vehicles are developed. This paper will focus on individual Space Shuttle mission case studies where specific operational skills, techniques, and preparedness allowed for mission safety and success. It will detail the events leading up to the scenario or failure, how the operations team identified and dealt with the failure and its downstream impacts. The various options for real-time troubleshooting will be discussed along with the operations team final recommendation, execution, and outcome. Finally, the lessons learned will be summarized along with an explanation of how these lessons were used to improve the operational preparedness of future flight control teams.

MERCHANT MARINE SHIP REACTOR

DOEpatents

Mumm, J.F.; North, D.C. Jr.; Rock, H.R.; Geston, D.K.

1961-05-01

A nuclear reactor is described for use in a merchant marine ship. The reactor is of pressurized light water cooled and moderated design in which three passes of the water through the core in successive regions of low, intermediate, and high heat generation and downflow in a fuel region are made. The foregoing design makes a compact reactor construction with extended core life. The core has an egg-crate lattice containing the fuel elements confined between a lower flow baffle and upper grid plate, with the latter serving also as part of a turn- around manifold from which the entire coolant is distributed into the outer fuel elements for the second pass through the core. The inner fuel elements are cooled in the third pass.

Merchant Marine Ship Reactor

DOEpatents

Sankovich, M. F.; Mumm, J. F.; North, Jr, D. C.; Rock, H. R.; Gestson, D. K.

1961-05-01

A nuclear reactor for use in a merchant marine ship is described. The reactor is of pressurized, light water cooled and moderated design in which three passes of the water through the core in successive regions of low, intermediate, and high heat generation and downflow in a fuel region are made. The design makes a compact reactor construction with extended core life. The core has an egg-crate lattice containing the fuel elements that are confined between a lower flow baffle and upper grid plate, with the latter serving also as part of a turn- around manifold from which the entire coolant is distributed into the outer fuel elements for the second pass through the core. The inner fuel elements are cooled in the third pass. (AEC)

Miniature infrared data acquisition and telemetry system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stokes, J. H.; Ward, S. M.

1985-01-01

The Miniature Infrared Data Acquisition and Telemetry (MIRDAT) Phase 1 study was performed to determine the technical and commercial feasibility of producing a miniaturized electro-optical telemetry system. This system acquires and transmits experimental data from aircraft scale models for realtime monitoring in wind tunnels. During the Phase 1 study, miniature prototype MIRDAT telemetry devices were constructed, successfully tested in the laboratory and delivered to the user for wind tunnel testing. A search was conducted for commercially available components and advanced hybrid techniques to further miniaturize the system during Phase 2 development. A design specification was generated from laboratory testing, user requirements and discussions with component manufacturers. Finally, a preliminary design of the proposed MIRDAT system was documented for Phase 2 development.

Performance enhancement of optical code-division multiple-access systems using transposed modified Walsh code

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sikder, Somali; Ghosh, Shila

2018-02-01

This paper presents the construction of unipolar transposed modified Walsh code (TMWC) and analysis of its performance in optical code-division multiple-access (OCDMA) systems. Specifically, the signal-to-noise ratio, bit error rate (BER), cardinality, and spectral efficiency were investigated. The theoretical analysis demonstrated that the wavelength-hopping time-spreading system using TMWC was robust against multiple-access interference and more spectrally efficient than systems using other existing OCDMA codes. In particular, the spectral efficiency was calculated to be 1.0370 when TMWC of weight 3 was employed. The BER and eye pattern for the designed TMWC were also successfully obtained using OptiSystem simulation software. The results indicate that the proposed code design is promising for enhancing network capacity.

Variable plant spacing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bledsoe, Jim; Weiss, Lee

1988-01-01

The goal of this project was to develop a system for varying the spacings between soybean plants as they grow to maximize the number of plants grown in a given volume. The project was studied to aid in the development of NASA's Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS). The resulting design consists of plant trays which are three dimensional trapezoids arranged into circles in a compact geometrical configuration. These circles are stacked together in back to back pairs to form a long cylinder. In each growth tray, plants will be housed in individual containers containing a nutrient delivery system and a plant support mechanism. Between the containers, a half trellis has been designed to space the plants for maximum space efficiency. The design allows for localized seeding and harvesting mechanisms due to the chambers' geometrical configuration. In addition, the components have been designed for ease of cleaning and minimal maintenance. Next semester, the individual components will be constructed and tested to determine the success of the design.

Use of multidimensional modeling to evaluate a channel restoration design for the Kootenai River, Idaho

USGS Publications Warehouse

Logan, B.L.; McDonald, R.R.; Nelson, J.M.; Kinzel, P.J.; Barton, G.J.

2011-01-01

River channel construction projects aimed at restoring or improving degraded waterways have become common but have been variously successful. In this report a methodology is proposed to evaluate channel designs before channels are built by using multidimensional modeling and analysis. This approach allows detailed analysis of water-surface profiles, sediment transport, and aquatic habitat that may result if the design is implemented. The method presented here addresses the need to model a range of potential stream-discharge and channel-roughness conditions to best assess the function of the design channel for a suite of possible conditions. This methodology is demonstrated by using a preliminary channel-restoration design proposed for a part of the Kootenai River in northern Idaho designated as critical habitat for the endangered white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) and evaluating the design on the basis of simulations with the Flow and Sediment Transport with Morphologic Evolution of Channels (FaSTMECH) model. This evaluation indicated substantial problems with the preliminary design because boundary conditions used in the design were inconsistent with best estimates of future conditions. As a result, simulated water-surface levels did not meet target levels that corresponded to the designed bankfull surfaces; therefore, the flood plain would not function as intended. Sediment-transport analyses indicated that both the current channel of the Kootenai River and the design channel are largely unable to move the bed material through the reach at bankfull discharge. Therefore, sediment delivered to the design channel would likely be deposited within the reach instead of passing through it as planned. Consequently, the design channel geometry would adjust through time. Despite these issues, the design channel would provide more aquatic habitat suitable for spawning white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus) at lower discharges than is currently available in the Kootenai River. The evaluation methodology identified potential problems with the design channel that can be addressed through design modifications to better meet project objectives before channel construction.

Prosthetic reconstruction of dentitions seriously compromised by periodontal disease.

PubMed

Lundgren, D

1991-07-01

Dentitions seriously compromised by periodontal disease are often in need not only of cause-related periodontal therapy of high quality but also of relevant prosthetic rehabilitation. Contrary to traditional claims, clinical investigations published during the last 2 decades demonstrate that, if adequately treated and controlled, such dentitions can carry fixed, cross-arch bridges on an extremely reduced amount of periodontium, with a good long-range prognosis. It has also been shown that a markedly reduced but healthy and favourably distributed periodontium supporting such constructions can withstand occlusal forces of considerable magnitude. Another controversial topic, related to fixed bridges, involves indications and contra-indications for cantilever segments. Some clinical investigations demonstrate a markedly increased risk of failure if the fixed bridge is provided with cantilever units, while other controlled studies with defined specifications on the design of the constructions exhibit a high success rate after 8 years or more also for bridgework where 2 or 3 cantilever units are included. The force pattern along cantilever segments of both tooth-supported and implant-supported bridges has been extensively studied. The results show that the force distribution depends not only on the occlusal contact pattern and the dimensioning of the cantilever beam, but also on the type of prosthetic construction in the opposite jaw occluding with the cantilever segment. The free-standing, implant-supported bridge has recently become an important treatment modality for rehabilitation of the partially edentulous jaw, and follow-up studies demonstrate a high success rate.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Construction of a novel peptide nucleic acid piezoelectric gene sensor microarray detection system.

PubMed

Chen, Ming; Liu, Minghua; Yu, Lili; Cai, Guoru; Chen, Qinghai; Wu, Rong; Wang, Feng; Zhang, Bo; Jiang, Tianlun; Fu, Welling

2005-08-01

A novel 2 x 5 clamped style piezoelectric gene sensor microarray has been successfully constructed. Every crystal unit of the fabricated gene sensor can oscillate independently without interfering with each other. The bis-peptide nucleic acid (bis-PNA) probe, which can combine with target DNA or RNA sequences more effectively and specifically than a DNA probe, was designed and immobilized on the surface of the gene sensor microarray to substitute the conventional DNA probe for direct detection of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) genomic DNA. Detection conditions were then explored and optimized. Results showed that PBS buffer of pH 6.8, an ion concentration of 20 mmol/liter, and a probe concentration of 1.5 micromol/liter were optimal for the detection system. Under such optimized experimental conditions, the specificity of bis-PNA was proved much higher than that of DNA probe. The relationship between quantity of target and decrease of frequency showed a typical saturation curve when concentrations of target HBV DNA varied from 10 pg/liter to 100 microg/liter, and 10 microg/liter was the watershed, with a statistic linear regression equation of I gC = -2.7455 + 0.0691 deltaF and the correlating coefficient of 0.9923. Fortunately, this is exactly the most ordinary variant range of the HBV virus concentration in clinical hepatitis samples. So, a good technical platform is successfully constructed and it will be applied to detect HBV quantitatively in clinical samples.

Managment and construction of the Large Binocular Telescope enclosure: Meeting unusual challenges with a competitive discipline

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Slagle, James H.; Hill, John M.; Davison, Warren B.; Hart, Wood; Teran, Jose U.

1998-08-01

Planning, estimating, and building a telescope and its enclosure within a budget is a challenge to any project staff. The Large Binocular Telescope (LBT) project office goal has been to break every phase of the project into small packages and competitively bid the packages. In this way the project office can minimize costs and keep the project budget from escalating out of control. This paper will discuss both the unique and common problems associated with the building of telescopes into the next millennium. The discussion is centered on the planning and execution phases of construction for the LBT, located on Mt. Graham in Arizona. The paper will discuss the effects of delays on the actual start of the telescope due to environmental issues and the impact the delays had on design and budget. The paper will provide the solutions that have been incorporated by the LBT project office to maximize the quality of construction while holding costs to a minimum. The use of a team approach by the contractors, engineers, and the project office has been successful in maintaining quality construction at a reasonable cost.

The modified swirl sedimentation tanks for water purification.

PubMed

Ochowiak, Marek; Matuszak, Magdalena; Włodarczak, Sylwia; Ancukiewicz, Małgorzata; Krupińska, Andżelika

2017-03-15

This paper discusses design, evaluation, and application for the use of swirl/vortex technologies as liquid purification system. A study was performed using modified swirl sedimentation tanks. The vortex separators (OW, OWK, OWR and OWKR) have been studied under laboratory conditions at liquid flow rate from 2.8⋅10 -5 to 5.1⋅10 -4 [m 3 /s]. The pressure drop and the efficiency of purification of liquid stream were analyzed. The suspended particles of different diameters were successfully removed from liquid with the application of swirl chambers of proposed constructions. It was found that damming of liquid in the tank increases alongside liquid stream at the inlet and depends on the tank construction. The efficiency of the sedimentation tanks increases alongside the diameters of solid particles and decrease in the liquid flow rate. The best construction proved to be the OWR sedimentation tank due to smallest liquid damming, even at high flow rates, and the highest efficiency of the purification liquid stream for solid particles of the smallest diameter. The proposed solution is an alternative to the classical constructions of sedimentation tanks. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

76 FR 58079 - Notice of Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) Approvals and Disapprovals

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-19

...--construction. Rehabilitate taxiways B, A, and B-1--design. Pavement condition update. Acquire aircraft rescue..., phase II. Construct taxiway to runway 10/28. Design/construct air cargo/general aviation apron. Design... center controls for new control tower. Design and construct new south general aviation apron. Remove...

29 CFR 1926.1433 - Design, construction and testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 29 Labor 8 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Design, construction and testing. 1926.1433 Section 1926... Construction § 1926.1433 Design, construction and testing. The following requirements apply to equipment that... locomotive cranes manufactured prior to November 8, 2010 must meet the applicable requirements for design...

29 CFR 1926.1433 - Design, construction and testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 29 Labor 8 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Design, construction and testing. 1926.1433 Section 1926... Construction § 1926.1433 Design, construction and testing. The following requirements apply to equipment that... locomotive cranes manufactured prior to November 8, 2010 must meet the applicable requirements for design...

29 CFR 1926.1433 - Design, construction and testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 29 Labor 8 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Design, construction and testing. 1926.1433 Section 1926... Construction § 1926.1433 Design, construction and testing. The following requirements apply to equipment that... locomotive cranes manufactured prior to November 8, 2010 must meet the applicable requirements for design...

29 CFR 1926.1433 - Design, construction and testing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 29 Labor 8 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Design, construction and testing. 1926.1433 Section 1926... Construction § 1926.1433 Design, construction and testing. The following requirements apply to equipment that... locomotive cranes manufactured prior to November 8, 2010 must meet the applicable requirements for design...

10 CFR Appendix N to Part 52 - Standardization of Nuclear Power Plant Designs: Combined Licenses To Construct and Operate...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... Licenses To Construct and Operate Nuclear Power Reactors of Identical Design at Multiple Sites N Appendix N... Designs: Combined Licenses To Construct and Operate Nuclear Power Reactors of Identical Design at Multiple... construct and operate nuclear power reactors of identical design (“common design”) to be located at multiple...

Double anisotropic electrically conductive flexible Janus-typed membranes.

PubMed

Li, Xiaobing; Ma, Qianli; Tian, Jiao; Xi, Xue; Li, Dan; Dong, Xiangting; Yu, Wensheng; Wang, Xinlu; Wang, Jinxian; Liu, Guixia

2017-12-07

Novel type III anisotropic conductive films (ACFs), namely flexible Janus-typed membranes, were proposed, designed and fabricated for the first time. Flexible Janus-typed membranes composed of ordered Janus nanobelts were constructed by electrospinning, which simultaneously possess fluorescence and double electrically conductive anisotropy. For the fabrication of the Janus-typed membrane, Janus nanobelts comprising a conductive side and an insulative-fluorescent side were primarily fabricated, and then the Janus nanobelts are arranged into parallel arrays using an aluminum rotary drum as the collector to obtain a single anisotropically conductive film. Subsequently, a secondary electrospinning process was applied to the as-prepared single anisotropically conductive films to acquire the final Janus-typed membrane. For this Janus-typed membrane, namely its left-to-right structure, anisotropic electrical conduction synchronously exists on both sides, and furthermore, the two electrically conductive directions are perpendicular. By modulating the amount of Eu(BA) 3 phen complex and conducting polyaniline (PANI), the characteristics and intensity of the fluorescence-electricity dual-function in the membrane can be tuned. The high integration of this peculiar Janus-typed membrane with simultaneous double electrically conductive anisotropy-fluorescent dual-functionality is successfully realized in this study. This design philosophy and preparative technique will provide support for the design and construction of new types of special nanostructures with multi-functionality.

A fully functionalized metamaterial perfect absorber with simple design and implementation.

PubMed

Fu, Sze Ming; Zhong, Yan Kai; Tu, Ming Hsiang; Chen, Bo Ruei; Lin, Albert

2016-10-26

Broadband perfect metamaterial absorbers have been drawing significant attention in recent years. A close-to-unity absorption over a broad spectral range is established and this facilitates many photonic applications. A more challenging goal is to construct a broadband absorber with a tailored spectral absorption. The spectral absorption control and spectral shaping are very critical in many applications, such as thermal-photovoltaic, thermal emitters, spectrum imaging system, biomedical and extraterrestrial sensing, and refractive index sensor. In this work, one-dimensional (1D) planar stacking structure is designed to achieve the ultimate goal of a functionalized absorber with a fully tailorable spectral absorption. The lithography and etching process are totally eliminated in this proposed structure, and the fabrication is fully compatible with the regular silicon IC processing. By using ~2 nm ultra-thin metallic layers with a 10-pair (10X) SiO 2 /Si 3 N 4 integrated dielectric filter, we can achieve decent spectral response shaping. The planar configuration of the ultra-thin-metal metamaterial perfect absorber (MPA) is the key to the easy design/integration of the dielectric filters on top of the MPA. Specifically, band-rejected, high-pass, low-pass and band-pass structure are constructed successfully. Finally, experimental evidence to support our simulation result is also provided, which proves the feasibility of our proposal.

Burnout control at the Albright coal-waste-bank fire. Rept. of investigations/1991

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

Chaiken, R.F.; Bayles, L.G.

1991-01-01

Burnout Control is a process developed by the U.S. Bureau of Mines for accelerating the burning of wasted coal fires in situ, while at the same time controlling the heat and fumes produced. The Albright fire project is a first field trial of Burnout Control as applied to a coal waste bank. An exhaust ventilation system was designed and constructed and then operated over a 1-year period at the site of an existing abandoned mine land fire near the town of Albright, W.V. While predicted exhaust gas temperatures of 900 C and thermal power levels of 5 MW were achievedmore » at 20- to 30-in H2O vacuum levels, problems were encountered with engineering designs, equipment breakdown, and fuel-rich combustion that curtailed the time period of satisfactory operation. Effective afterburning of the exhaust gases (as they were drawn from the bank) corrected the problems associated with combustion stoichiometry and led to high thermal outputs. It is believed that with (1) improvements in engineering design and construction, (2) better control of the afterburning process, and (3) the use of conventional stack gas air-pollution controls, Burnout Control can be applied successfully to a coal waste bank fire.« less

Construction of CHESS compact undulator magnets at Kyma

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Temnykh, Alexander B.; Lyndaker, Aaron; Kokole, Mirko; Milharcic, Tadej; Pockar, Jure; Geometrante, Raffaella

2015-05-01

In 2014 KYMA S.r.l. has built two CHESS Compact Undulator (CCU) magnets that are at present installed and successfully operate at the Cornell Electron Storage Ring. This type of undulator was developed for upgrade of Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source beam-lines, but it can be used elsewhere as well. CCU magnets are compact, lightweight, cost efficient and in-vacuum compatible. They are linearly polarized undulators and have a fixed gap. Magnetic field tuning is achieved by phasing (shifting) top magnetic array relative bottom. Two CCUs constructed by KYMA S.r.l. have 28.4 mm period, 6.5 mm gap, 0.93 T peak field. Magnetic structure is of PPM type, made with NdFeB (40UH grade) permanent magnet material. Transitioning from the laboratory to industrial environment for a novel design required additional evaluation, design adjusting and extensive testing. Particular attention was given to the soldering technique used for fastening of the magnetic blocks to holders. This technique had thus far never been used before for undulator magnet construction by industry. The evaluation included tests of different types of soldering paste, measurements of strength of solder and determining the deformations of the soldered magnet and holder under simulated loading forces. This paper focuses on critical features of the CCU design, results of the soldering technique testing and the data regarding permanent magnets magnetization change due to soldering. In addition it deals with optimization-assisted assembly and the performance of the assembled devices and assesses some of the results of the CCU magnets operation at CESR.

Progress in computer vision.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jain, A. K.; Dorai, C.

Computer vision has emerged as a challenging and important area of research, both as an engineering and a scientific discipline. The growing importance of computer vision is evident from the fact that it was identified as one of the "Grand Challenges" and also from its prominent role in the National Information Infrastructure. While the design of a general-purpose vision system continues to be elusive machine vision systems are being used successfully in specific application elusive, machine vision systems are being used successfully in specific application domains. Building a practical vision system requires a careful selection of appropriate sensors, extraction and integration of information from available cues in the sensed data, and evaluation of system robustness and performance. The authors discuss and demonstrate advantages of (1) multi-sensor fusion, (2) combination of features and classifiers, (3) integration of visual modules, and (IV) admissibility and goal-directed evaluation of vision algorithms. The requirements of several prominent real world applications such as biometry, document image analysis, image and video database retrieval, and automatic object model construction offer exciting problems and new opportunities to design and evaluate vision algorithms.

Silicon web process development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duncan, C. S.; Seidensticker, R. G.; Mchugh, J. P.; Hill, F. E.; Skutch, M. E.; Driggers, J. M.; Hopkins, R. H.

1980-01-01

A barrier crucible design which consistently maintains melt stability over long periods of time was successfully tested and used in long growth runs. The pellet feeder for melt replenishment was operated continuously for growth runs of up to 17 hours. The liquid level sensor comprising a laser/sensor system was operated, performed well, and meets the requirements for maintaining liquid level height during growth and melt replenishment. An automated feedback loop connecting the feed mechanism and the liquid level sensing system was designed and constructed and operated successfully for 3.5 hours demonstrating the feasibility of semi-automated dendritic web growth. The sensitivity of the cost of sheet, to variations in capital equipment cost and recycling dendrites was calculated and it was shown that these factors have relatively little impact on sheet cost. Dendrites from web which had gone all the way through the solar cell fabrication process, when melted and grown into web, produce crystals which show no degradation in cell efficiency. Material quality remains high and cells made from web grown at the start, during, and the end of a run from a replenished melt show comparable efficiencies.

Behaviour change in overweight and obese pregnancy: a decision tree to support the development of antenatal lifestyle interventions.

PubMed

Ainscough, Kate M; Lindsay, Karen L; O'Sullivan, Elizabeth J; Gibney, Eileen R; McAuliffe, Fionnuala M

2017-10-01

Antenatal healthy lifestyle interventions are frequently implemented in overweight and obese pregnancy, yet there is inconsistent reporting of the behaviour-change methods and behavioural outcomes. This limits our understanding of how and why such interventions were successful or not. The current paper discusses the application of behaviour-change theories and techniques within complex lifestyle interventions in overweight and obese pregnancy. The authors propose a decision tree to help guide researchers through intervention design, implementation and evaluation. The implications for adopting behaviour-change theories and techniques, and using appropriate guidance when constructing and evaluating interventions in research and clinical practice are also discussed. To enhance the evidence base for successful behaviour-change interventions during pregnancy, adoption of behaviour-change theories and techniques, and use of published guidelines when designing lifestyle interventions are necessary. The proposed decision tree may be a useful guide for researchers working to develop effective behaviour-change interventions in clinical settings. This guide directs researchers towards key literature sources that will be important in each stage of study development.

New Technique for Tibiotalar Arthrodesis Using a New Intramedullary Nail Device: A Cadaveric Study

PubMed Central

Eisenstein, Emmanuel D.; Rodriguez, Mario

2016-01-01

Introduction. Ankle arthrodesis is performed in a variety of methods. We propose a new technique for tibiotalar arthrodesis using a newly designed intramedullary nail. Methods. We proposed development of an intramedullary device for ankle arthrodesis which spared the subtalar joint using a sinus tarsi approach. Standard saw bones models and computer assisted modeling and stress analysis were used to develop different nail design geometries and determine the feasibility of insertion. After the final design was constructed, the device was tested on three cadaveric specimens. Results. Four basic nail geometries were developed. The optimal design was composed of two relatively straight segments, each with a different radius of curvature for their respective tibial and talar component. We successfully implemented this design into three cadaveric specimens. Conclusion. Our newly designed tibiotalar nail provides a new technique for isolated tibiotalar fusion. It utilizes the advantages of a tibiotalar calcaneal nail and spares the subtalar joint. This design serves as the foundation for future research to include compression options across the tibiotalar joint and eventual transition to clinical practice. PMID:27818800

New Technique for Tibiotalar Arthrodesis Using a New Intramedullary Nail Device: A Cadaveric Study.

PubMed

Eisenstein, Emmanuel D; Rodriguez, Mario; Abdelgawad, Amr A

2016-01-01

Introduction . Ankle arthrodesis is performed in a variety of methods. We propose a new technique for tibiotalar arthrodesis using a newly designed intramedullary nail. Methods . We proposed development of an intramedullary device for ankle arthrodesis which spared the subtalar joint using a sinus tarsi approach. Standard saw bones models and computer assisted modeling and stress analysis were used to develop different nail design geometries and determine the feasibility of insertion. After the final design was constructed, the device was tested on three cadaveric specimens. Results . Four basic nail geometries were developed. The optimal design was composed of two relatively straight segments, each with a different radius of curvature for their respective tibial and talar component. We successfully implemented this design into three cadaveric specimens. Conclusion . Our newly designed tibiotalar nail provides a new technique for isolated tibiotalar fusion. It utilizes the advantages of a tibiotalar calcaneal nail and spares the subtalar joint. This design serves as the foundation for future research to include compression options across the tibiotalar joint and eventual transition to clinical practice.

EMILiO: a fast algorithm for genome-scale strain design.

PubMed

Yang, Laurence; Cluett, William R; Mahadevan, Radhakrishnan

2011-05-01

Systems-level design of cell metabolism is becoming increasingly important for renewable production of fuels, chemicals, and drugs. Computational models are improving in the accuracy and scope of predictions, but are also growing in complexity. Consequently, efficient and scalable algorithms are increasingly important for strain design. Previous algorithms helped to consolidate the utility of computational modeling in this field. To meet intensifying demands for high-performance strains, both the number and variety of genetic manipulations involved in strain construction are increasing. Existing algorithms have experienced combinatorial increases in computational complexity when applied toward the design of such complex strains. Here, we present EMILiO, a new algorithm that increases the scope of strain design to include reactions with individually optimized fluxes. Unlike existing approaches that would experience an explosion in complexity to solve this problem, we efficiently generated numerous alternate strain designs producing succinate, l-glutamate and l-serine. This was enabled by successive linear programming, a technique new to the area of computational strain design. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mass of materials: the impact of designers on construction ergonomics.

PubMed

Smallwood, John

2012-01-01

Many construction injuries are musculoskeletal related in the form of sprains and strains arising from the handling of materials, which are specified by designers. The paper presents the results of a study conducted among delegates attending two 'designing for H&S' (DfH&S) seminars using a questionnaire. The salient findings include: the level of knowledge relative to the mass and density of materials is limited; designers generally do not consider the mass and density of materials when designing structures and elements and specifying materials; to a degree designers appreciate that the mass and density of materials impact on construction ergonomics; designers rate their knowledge of the mass and density of materials as limited, and designers appreciate the potential of the consideration of the mass and density of materials to contribute to an improvement in construction ergonomics. Conclusions include: designers lack the requisite knowledge relative to the mass and density of materials; designers are thus precluded from conducting optimum design hazard identification and risk assessments, and tertiary built environment designer education does not enlighten designers relative to construction ergonomics. Recommendations include: tertiary built environment designer education should construction ergonomics; professional associations should raise the level of awareness relative to construction ergonomics, and design practices should include a category 'mass and density of materials' in their practice libraries.

Critical success factors in infrastructure projects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakaria, Siti Fairus; Zin, Rosli Mohamad; Mohamad, Ismail; Balubaid, Saeed; Mydin, Shaik Hussein; Mohd Rahim, E. M. Roodienyanto

2017-11-01

Construction of infrastructure project is different from buildings. The main difference is term of project site where infrastructure project need to command a long stretch while building mostly confine to a limited area. As such factors that are critical to infrastructure project may not be that significant to building project and vice versa. Flood mitigation can be classified under infrastructure projects under which their developments are planned by the government with the specific objective to reduce or avoid the negative effects of flood to the environment and livelihood. One of the indicators in project success is delay. The impact of project delay in construction industry is significant that it decelerates the projects implementation, specifically the government projects. This study attempted to identify and compare the success factors between infrastructure and building projects, as such comparison rarely found in the current literature. A model of flood mitigation projects' success factors was developed by merging the experts' views and reports from the existing literature. The experts' views were obtained from the responses to open-ended questions on the required fundamentals to achieve successful completion of flood mitigation projects. An affinity analysis was applied to these responses to develop the model. The developed model was then compared to the established success factors found in building project, extracted from the previous studies to identify the similarities and differences between the two models. This study would assist the government and construction players to become more effective in constructing successful flood mitigation projects for the future practice in a flood-prone country like Malaysia.

Validation of the DeLone and McLean Information Systems Success Model.

PubMed

Ojo, Adebowale I

2017-01-01

This study is an adaptation of the widely used DeLone and McLean information system success model in the context of hospital information systems in a developing country. A survey research design was adopted in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 442 health information management personnel in five Nigerian teaching hospitals. A structural equation modeling technique was used to validate the model's constructs. It was revealed that system quality significantly influenced use (β = 0.53, p < 0.001) and user satisfaction (β = 0.17, p < 0.001). Information quality significantly influenced use (β = 0.24, p < 0.001) and user satisfaction (β = 0.17, p < 0.001). Also, service quality significantly influenced use (β = 0.22, p < 0.001) and user satisfaction (β = 0.51, p < 0.001). However, use did not significantly influence user satisfaction (β = 0.00, p > 0.05), but it significantly influenced perceived net benefits (β = 0.21, p < 0.001). Furthermore, user satisfaction did not significantly influence perceived net benefits (β = 0.00, p > 0.05). The study validates the DeLone and McLean information system success model in the context of a hospital information system in a developing country. Importantly, system quality and use were found to be important measures of hospital information system success. It is, therefore, imperative that hospital information systems are designed in such ways that are easy to use, flexible, and functional to serve their purpose.

Validation of the DeLone and McLean Information Systems Success Model

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Objectives This study is an adaptation of the widely used DeLone and McLean information system success model in the context of hospital information systems in a developing country. Methods A survey research design was adopted in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 442 health information management personnel in five Nigerian teaching hospitals. A structural equation modeling technique was used to validate the model's constructs. Results It was revealed that system quality significantly influenced use (β = 0.53, p < 0.001) and user satisfaction (β = 0.17, p < 0.001). Information quality significantly influenced use (β = 0.24, p < 0.001) and user satisfaction (β = 0.17, p < 0.001). Also, service quality significantly influenced use (β = 0.22, p < 0.001) and user satisfaction (β = 0.51, p < 0.001). However, use did not significantly influence user satisfaction (β = 0.00, p > 0.05), but it significantly influenced perceived net benefits (β = 0.21, p < 0.001). Furthermore, user satisfaction did not significantly influence perceived net benefits (β = 0.00, p > 0.05). Conclusions The study validates the DeLone and McLean information system success model in the context of a hospital information system in a developing country. Importantly, system quality and use were found to be important measures of hospital information system success. It is, therefore, imperative that hospital information systems are designed in such ways that are easy to use, flexible, and functional to serve their purpose. PMID:28261532

A new brain-computer interface design using fuzzy ARTMAP.

PubMed

Palaniappan, Ramaswamy; Paramesran, Raveendran; Nishida, Shogo; Saiwaki, Naoki

2002-09-01

This paper proposes a new brain-computer interface (BCI) design using fuzzy ARTMAP (FA) neural network, as well as an application of the design. The objective of this BCI-FA design is to classify the best three of the five available mental tasks for each subject using power spectral density (PSD) values of electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. These PSD values are extracted using the Wiener-Khinchine and autoregressive methods. Ten experiments employing different triplets of mental tasks are studied for each subject. The findings show that the average BCI-FA outputs for four subjects gave less than 6% of error using the best triplets of mental tasks identified from the classification performances of FA. This implies that the BCI-FA can be successfully used with a tri-state switching device. As an application, a proposed tri-state Morse code scheme could be utilized to translate the outputs of this BCI-FA design into English letters. In this scheme, the three BCI-FA outputs correspond to a dot and a dash, which are the two basic Morse code alphabets and a space to denote the end (or beginning) of a dot or a dash. The construction of English letters using this tri-state Morse code scheme is determined only by the sequence of mental tasks and is independent of the time duration of each mental task. This is especially useful for constructing letters that are represented as multiple dots or dashes. This combination of BCI-FA design and the tri-state Morse code scheme could be developed as a communication system for paralyzed patients.

Design, construction, prototype tests and performance of a vertex chamber for the MAC detector

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ash, W. W.; Band, H. R.; Bloom, E. D.; Bosman, M.; Camporesi, T.; Chadwick, G. B.; Delfino, M. C.; De Sangro, R.; Ford, W. T.; Gettner, M. W.; Goderre, G. P.; Godfrey, G. L.; Groom, D. E.; Hurst, R. B.; Johnson, J. R.; Lau, K. H.; Lavine, T. L.; Leedy, R. E.; Lippi, I.; Maruyama, T.; Messner, R. L.; Moromisato, J. H.; Moss, L. J.; Muller, F.; Nelson, H. N.; Peruzzi, I.; Piccolo, M.; Prepost, R.; Pyrlik, J.; Qi, N.; Read, A. L.; Ritson, D. M.; Rosenberg, L. J.; Shambroom, W. D.; Sleeman, J. C.; Smith, J. G.; Venuti, J. P.; Verdini, P. G.; Von Goeler, E.; Wald, H. B.; Weinstein, R.; Wiser, D. E.; Zdarko, R. W.

1987-11-01

The design considerations, construction techniques, prototype tests and performance characteristics of a pressurized drift chamber used in the MAC detector at PEP are described. The chamber consists of 324 aluminized mylar tubes of 6.9 mm diameter with wall thickness of 100 μm. With appropriate shielding it operates successfully at 4.6 cm from the beam line. It was simple to construct and was configured to permit any malfunctioning tubes to be remotely disconnected without affecting operation. The chamber operated without problems for two years in the PEP environment with a gas mixture of 49.5% argon, 49.5% CO 2, 1% CH 4, at 4 atm absolute pressure. The mean spatial resolution averaged over all tubes was 45 μm. The time to distance relation for this gas mixture, along with the geometric positioning of individual wires relative to the central tracking chamber, was obtained with data from Bhabha scattering events. We also describe resolution studies performed with a prototype chamber in a SLAC test beam. A wide range of gases, gas pressures, and electronic parameters were explored. These studies proved that resolutions in the 10-50 μm range were possible. Our experience demonstrates that chambers of this type provide high precision tracking and are particularly suited for operation in regions with difficult physical access and/or high ambient radiation levels.

Deletion of a target gene in Indica rice via CRISPR/Cas9.

PubMed

Wang, Ying; Geng, Lizhao; Yuan, Menglong; Wei, Juan; Jin, Chen; Li, Min; Yu, Kun; Zhang, Ya; Jin, Huaibing; Wang, Eric; Chai, Zhijian; Fu, Xiangdong; Li, Xianggan

2017-08-01

Using CRISPR/Cas9, we successfully deleted large fragments of the yield-related gene DENSE AND ERECT PANICLE1 in Indica rice at relatively high frequency and generated gain-of-function dep1 mutants. CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats)/Cas9 is a rapidly developing technology used to produce gene-specific modifications in both mammalian and plant systems. Most CRISPR-induced modifications in plants reported to date have been small insertions or deletions. Few large target gene deletions have thus far been reported, especially for Indica rice. In this study, we designed multiple CRISPR sgRNAs and successfully deleted DNA fragments in the gene DENSE AND ERECT PANICLE1 (DEP1) in the elite Indica rice line IR58025B. We achieved deletion frequencies of up to 21% for a 430 bp target and 9% for a 10 kb target among T0 events. Constructs with four sgRNAs did not generate higher full-length deletion frequencies than constructs with two sgRNAs. The multiple mutagenesis frequency reached 93% for four targets, and the homozygous mutation frequency reached 21% at the T0 stage. Important yield-related trait characteristics, such as dense and erect panicles and reduced plant height, were observed in dep1 homozygous T0 mutant plants produced by CRISPR/Cas9. Therefore, we successfully obtained deletions in DEP1 in the Indica background using the CRISPR/Cas9 editing tool at relatively high frequency.

Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to Identify Barriers and Facilitators for the Implementation of an Internet-Based Patient-Provider Communication Service in Five Settings: A Qualitative Study

PubMed Central

Varsi, Cecilie; Ekstedt, Mirjam; Gammon, Deede

2015-01-01

Background Although there is growing evidence of the positive effects of Internet-based patient-provider communication (IPPC) services for both patients and health care providers, their implementation into clinical practice continues to be a challenge. Objective The 3 aims of this study were to (1) identify and compare barriers and facilitators influencing the implementation of an IPPC service in 5 hospital units using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), (2) assess the ability of the different constructs of CFIR to distinguish between high and low implementation success, and (3) compare our findings with those from other studies that used the CFIR to discriminate between high and low implementation success. Methods This study was based on individual interviews with 10 nurses, 6 physicians, and 1 nutritionist who had used the IPPC to answer messages from patients. Results Of the 36 CFIR constructs, 28 were addressed in the interviews, of which 12 distinguished between high and low implementation units. Most of the distinguishing constructs were related to the inner setting domain of CFIR, indicating that institutional factors were particularly important for successful implementation. Health care providers’ beliefs in the intervention as useful for themselves and their patients as well as the implementation process itself were also important. A comparison of constructs across ours and 2 other studies that also used the CFIR to discriminate between high and low implementation success showed that 24 CFIR constructs distinguished between high and low implementation units in at least 1 study; 11 constructs distinguished in 2 studies. However, only 2 constructs (patient need and resources and available resources) distinguished consistently between high and low implementation units in all 3 studies. Conclusions The CFIR is a helpful framework for illuminating barriers and facilitators influencing IPPC implementation. However, CFIR’s strength of being broad and comprehensive also limits its usefulness as an implementation framework because it does not discriminate between the relative importance of its many constructs for implementation success. This is the first study to identify which CFIR constructs are the most promising to distinguish between high and low implementation success across settings and interventions. Findings from this study can contribute to the refinement of CFIR toward a more succinct and parsimonious framework for planning and evaluation of the implementation of clinical interventions. ClinicalTrial Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00971139; http://clinicaltrial.gov/ct2/show/NCT00971139 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6cWeqN1uY) PMID:26582138

Massively parallel sequencing of 17 commonly used forensic autosomal STRs and amelogenin with small amplicons.

PubMed

Kim, Eun Hye; Lee, Hwan Young; Yang, In Seok; Jung, Sang-Eun; Yang, Woo Ick; Shin, Kyoung-Jin

2016-05-01

The next-generation sequencing (NGS) method has been utilized to analyze short tandem repeat (STR) markers, which are routinely used for human identification purposes in the forensic field. Some researchers have demonstrated the successful application of the NGS system to STR typing, suggesting that NGS technology may be an alternative or additional method to overcome limitations of capillary electrophoresis (CE)-based STR profiling. However, there has been no available multiplex PCR system that is optimized for NGS analysis of forensic STR markers. Thus, we constructed a multiplex PCR system for the NGS analysis of 18 markers (13CODIS STRs, D2S1338, D19S433, Penta D, Penta E and amelogenin) by designing amplicons in the size range of 77-210 base pairs. Then, PCR products were generated from two single-sources, mixed samples and artificially degraded DNA samples using a multiplex PCR system, and were prepared for sequencing on the MiSeq system through construction of a subsequent barcoded library. By performing NGS and analyzing the data, we confirmed that the resultant STR genotypes were consistent with those of CE-based typing. Moreover, sequence variations were detected in targeted STR regions. Through the use of small-sized amplicons, the developed multiplex PCR system enables researchers to obtain successful STR profiles even from artificially degraded DNA as well as STR loci which are analyzed with large-sized amplicons in the CE-based commercial kits. In addition, successful profiles can be obtained from mixtures up to a 1:19 ratio. Consequently, the developed multiplex PCR system, which produces small size amplicons, can be successfully applied to STR NGS analysis of forensic casework samples such as mixtures and degraded DNA samples. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

APPLICATION OF THE 3D MODEL OF RAILWAY VIADUCTS TO COST ESTIMATION AND CONSTRUCTION

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fujisawa, Yasuo; Yabuki, Nobuyoshi; Igarashi, Zenichi; Yoshino, Hiroyuki

Three dimensional models of civil engineering structures are only partially used in either design or construction but not both. Research on integration of design, cost estimation and construction by 3Dmodels has not been heard in civil engineering domain yet. Using continuously a 3D product model of a structure from design to construction through estimation should improve the efficiency and decrease the occurrence of mistakes, hence enhancing the quality. In this research, we investigated the current practices of flow from design to construction, particularly focusing on cost estimation. Then, we identified advantages and issues on utilization of 3D design models to estimation and construction by applying 3D models to an actual railway construction project.

41 CFR 102-76.30 - What seismic safety standards must Federal agencies follow in the design and construction of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION REAL PROPERTY 76-DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION Design and Construction... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false What seismic safety standards must Federal agencies follow in the design and construction of Federal facilities? 102-76.30...

41 CFR 102-76.30 - What seismic safety standards must Federal agencies follow in the design and construction of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION REAL PROPERTY 76-DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION Design and Construction... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false What seismic safety standards must Federal agencies follow in the design and construction of Federal facilities? 102-76.30...

41 CFR 102-76.30 - What seismic safety standards must Federal agencies follow in the design and construction of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION REAL PROPERTY 76-DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION Design and Construction... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false What seismic safety standards must Federal agencies follow in the design and construction of Federal facilities? 102-76.30...

41 CFR 102-76.30 - What seismic safety standards must Federal agencies follow in the design and construction of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION REAL PROPERTY 76-DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION Design and Construction... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false What seismic safety standards must Federal agencies follow in the design and construction of Federal facilities? 102-76.30...

41 CFR 102-76.30 - What seismic safety standards must Federal agencies follow in the design and construction of...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION REAL PROPERTY 76-DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION Design and Construction... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false What seismic safety standards must Federal agencies follow in the design and construction of Federal facilities? 102-76.30...

International Design Concepts for the SKA

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarter, J.

2001-12-01

In August of 2000, representatives of eleven countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding to Establish the International Square Kilometre Array Steering Committee (ISSC). Arguably, the SKA could be built today, but without question it would be unaffordable. Increasing collecting area by a factor of 100 beyond today's largest array cannot be done cost effectively by simple extensions of what has been done before. New concepts, new designs, and new technologies will be required, as well as a paradigm shift. It will be necessary to heavily exploit emerging communications and consumer market technologies; to "hammer" them into shapes required to solve the SKA challenges, rather than inventing our own solutions from scratch. Or if we do invent ab initio solutions, we should look at creating consumer markets to embrace them, so that the full benefits of mass production and manufacturing can be realized. The strawman science goals of the SKA are extremely ambitious. Today there are six primary design concepts being studied that attempt to meet some or all of these goals; phased arrays of active elements embedded into flat tiles, "super Arecibo" antennas constructed in individual limestone karst sinkholes and arrayed together, large arrays of small, spherical (or hemispherical) Luneberg lenses, large deformable apertures with long focal ratios and aerostat-borne focal plane array receivers, arrays of large parabolic antennas constructed from steel "ropes," and large arrays of small parabolic dishes derived from the TVRO industry. This talk summarizes the strengths and weaknesses of these various designs in their current, incomplete state. In the US, the US SKA Consortium of 10 academic and research organizations has generated a roadmap to guide and assess the technology development that will be required to produce a successful SKA design, with well understood costs, performance, and minimal risk. The design and construction efforts for the ATA, LOFAR and the EVLA will provide essential opportunities for proofs-of-concept for portions of the preferred US design; a very large number of small elements configured into a Large-N number of stations. An aggressive timetable has been adopted for choosing a final (hybrid?) SKA design and the selection of a site, with a target date of 2005. The first, tentative steps have been taken to create an international project office capable of overseeing the development and construction of this facility, negotiating creative solutions to problems of radio frequency interference, and along the way, inventing the infrastructure and management appropriate to this "born international" venture.

Diamond and diamond-like carbon MEMS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luo, J. K.; Fu, Y. Q.; Le, H. R.; Williams, J. A.; Spearing, S. M.; Milne, W. I.

2007-07-01

To generate complex cartilage/bone tissues, scaffolds must possess several structural features that are difficult to create using conventional scaffold design/fabrication technologies. Successful cartilage/bone regeneration depends on the ability to assemble chondrocytes/osteoblasts into three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds. Therefore, we developed a 3D scaffold fabrication system that applies the axiomatic approach to our microstereolithography system. The new system offers a reduced machine size by minimizing the optical components, and shows that the design matrix is decoupled. This analysis identified the key factors affecting microstructure fabrication and an improved scaffold fabrication system was constructed. The results demonstrate that precise, predesigned 3D structures can be fabricated. Using this 3D scaffold, cell adhesion behavior was observed. The use of 3D scaffolds might help determine key factors in the study of cell behavior in complex environments and could eventually lead to the optimal design of scaffolds for the regeneration of various tissues, such as cartilage and bone.

SBROME: a scalable optimization and module matching framework for automated biosystems design.

PubMed

Huynh, Linh; Tsoukalas, Athanasios; Köppe, Matthias; Tagkopoulos, Ilias

2013-05-17

The development of a scalable framework for biodesign automation is a formidable challenge given the expected increase in part availability and the ever-growing complexity of synthetic circuits. To allow for (a) the use of previously constructed and characterized circuits or modules and (b) the implementation of designs that can scale up to hundreds of nodes, we here propose a divide-and-conquer Synthetic Biology Reusable Optimization Methodology (SBROME). An abstract user-defined circuit is first transformed and matched against a module database that incorporates circuits that have previously been experimentally characterized. Then the resulting circuit is decomposed to subcircuits that are populated with the set of parts that best approximate the desired function. Finally, all subcircuits are subsequently characterized and deposited back to the module database for future reuse. We successfully applied SBROME toward two alternative designs of a modular 3-input multiplexer that utilize pre-existing logic gates and characterized biological parts.

Scintillation Detector for the Measurement of Ultra-Heavy Cosmic Rays on the Super-TIGER Experiment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Link, Jason

2011-01-01

We discuss the design and construction of the scintillation detectors for the Super-TIGER experiment. Super-TIGER is a large-area (5.4sq m) balloon-borne experiment designed to measure the abundances of cosmic-ray nuclei between Z= 10 and Z=56. It is based on the successful TIGER experiment that flew in Antarctica in 2001 and 2003. Super-TIGER has three layers of scintillation detectors, two Cherenkov detectors and a scintillating fiber hodoscope. The scintillation detector employs four wavelength shifter bars surrounding the edges of the scintillator to collect the light from particles traversing the detector. PMTs are optically coupled at both ends of the bars for light collection. We report on laboratory performance of the scintillation counters using muons. In addition we discuss the design challenges and detector response over this broad charge range including the effect of scintilator saturation.

A knowledge-based approach to automated flow-field zoning for computational fluid dynamics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vogel, Alison Andrews

1989-01-01

An automated three-dimensional zonal grid generation capability for computational fluid dynamics is shown through the development of a demonstration computer program capable of automatically zoning the flow field of representative two-dimensional (2-D) aerodynamic configurations. The applicability of a knowledge-based programming approach to the domain of flow-field zoning is examined. Several aspects of flow-field zoning make the application of knowledge-based techniques challenging: the need for perceptual information, the role of individual bias in the design and evaluation of zonings, and the fact that the zoning process is modeled as a constructive, design-type task (for which there are relatively few examples of successful knowledge-based systems in any domain). Engineering solutions to the problems arising from these aspects are developed, and a demonstration system is implemented which can design, generate, and output flow-field zonings for representative 2-D aerodynamic configurations.

The FIREBall fiber-fed UV spectrograph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tuttle, Sarah E.; Schiminovich, David; Milliard, Bruno; Grange, Robert; Martin, D. Christopher; Rahman, Shahinur; Deharveng, Jean-Michel; McLean, Ryan; Tajiri, Gordon; Matuszewski, M.

2008-07-01

FIREBall (Faint Intergalactic Redshifted Emission Balloon) had a successful first engineering flight in July of 2007 from Palestine, Texas. Here we detail the design and construction of the spectrograph. FIREBall consists of a 1m telescope coupled to a fiber-fed ultraviolet spectrograph flown on a short duration balloon. The spectrograph is designed to map hydrogen and metal line emission from the intergalactic medium at several redshifts below z=1, exploiting a small window in atmospheric oxygen absorption at balloon altitudes. The instrument is a wide-field IFU fed by almost 400 fibers. The Offner mount spectrograph is designed to be sensitive in the 195-215nm window accessible at our altitudes of 35-40km. We are able to observe Lyα, as well as OVI and CIV doublets, from 0.3 < z < 0.9. Observations of UV bright B stars and background measurements allow characterization of throughput for the entire system and will inform future flights.

Upcoming Purchasing and Subcontracting Opportunities | NREL

Science.gov Websites

Services Fall 2022 Construction@nrel.gov Design-Build and Construction Spring 2018 Construction@nrel.gov Design-Build for Minor Construction Spring 2020 Construction@nrel.gov Testing of Fuel and Oil Samples

The AMT maglev test sled -- EML weapons technology transition to transportation

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

Schaaf, J.C. Jr.; Zowarka, R.C. Jr.; Davey, K.

1997-01-01

Technology spinoffs from prior electromagnetic launcher work enhance a magnetic levitation transportation system test bed being developed by American Maglev Technology of Florida. This project uses a series wound linear DC motor and brushes to simplify the magnetic levitation propulsion system. It takes advantage of previous related work in electromagnetic launcher technology to achieve success with this innovative design. Technology and knowledge gained from developments for homopolar generators and proposed railgun arc control are key to successful performance. This contribution supports a cost effective design that is competitive with alternative concepts. Brushes transfer power from the guideway (rail) to themore » vehicle (armature) in a novel design that activates the guideway only under the vehicle, reducing power losses and guideway construction costs. The vehicle carries no power for propulsion and levitation, and acts only as a conduit for the power through the high speed brushes. Brush selection and performance is based on previous EML homopolar generator research. A counterpulse circuit, first introduced in an early EML conference, is used to suppress arcing on the trailing brush and to transfer inductive energy to the next propulsion coil. Isolated static lift and preliminary propulsion tests have been completed, and integrated propulsion and lift tests are scheduled in early 1996.« less

Computer-designed surgical guide template compared with free-hand operation for mesiodens extraction in premaxilla using “trapdoor” method

PubMed Central

Hu, Ying Kai; Xie, Qian Yang; Yang, Chi; Xu, Guang Zhou

2017-01-01

Abstract The aim of this study was to introduce a novel method of mesiodens extraction using a vascularized pedicled bone flap by piezosurgery and to compare the differences between a computer-aided design surgical guide template and free-hand operation. A total of 8 patients with mesiodens, 4 with a surgical guide (group I), and 4 without it (group II) were included in the study. The surgical design was to construct a trapdoor pedicle on the superior mucoperiosteal attachment with application of piezosurgery. The bone lid was repositioned after mesiodens extraction. Group I patients underwent surgeries based on the preoperative planning with surgical guide templates, while group II patients underwent free-hand operation. The outcome variables were success rate, intraoperative time, anterior nasal spine (ANS) position, changes of nasolabial angle (NLA), and major complications. Data from the 2 groups were compared by SPSS 17.0, using Wilcoxon test. The operative time was significantly shorter in group I patients. All the mesiodentes were extracted successfully and no obvious differences of preoperative and postoperative ANS position and NLA value were found in both groups. The patients were all recovered uneventfully. Surgical guide templates can enhance clinical accuracy and reduce operative time by facilitating accurate osteotomies. PMID:28658139

Effectiveness of an intervention to increase construction workers' use of hearing protection.

PubMed

Lusk, S L; Hong, O S; Ronis, D L; Eakin, B L; Kerr, M J; Early, M R

1999-09-01

In this project we tested the effectiveness of a theory-based intervention (video, pamphlets, and guided practice session) to increase the use of hearing protection devices (HPDs) among Midwestern construction workers and a national group of plumber/pipefitter trainers. Posttest measures were collected 10-12 months following this intervention. Pender's Health Promotion Model (1987) provided the conceptual basis for development of the training program. A total of 837 high-noise-exposed workers were included in the analysis: 652 regional Midwestern construction workers and 185 national plumber/pipefitter trainers. Effectiveness of the intervention was determined through the sequence of analyses recommended by Braver and Braver (1988) for the Solomon Four-Group Design. Analysis of variance and covariance of postintervention use and intention to use HPDs and a meta-analytic test were done. These analyses indicated that the intervention significantly increased use of HPDs but had no effect on intention to use HPDs in the future. Pretesting had no effect on use. Actual or potential applications of this research include guidance in the development of successful theory-based interventions to increase use of HPDs.

Nanotechnology on duty in medical applications.

PubMed

Kubik, T; Bogunia-Kubik, K; Sugisaka, M

2005-02-01

At the beginning of 21(st) century, fifty years after discovery of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) double helix structure, scientific world is faced with a great progress in many disciplines of biological research, especially in the field of molecular biology and operating on nucleid acid molecules. Many molecular biology techniques have been implemented successfully in biology, biotechnology, medical science, diagnostics, and many more. The introduction of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) resulted in improving old and designing new laboratory devices for PCR amplification and analysis of amplified DNA fragments. In parallel to these efforts, the nature of DNA molecules and their construction have attracted many researchers. In addition, some studies concerning mimicking living systems, as well as developing and constructing artificial nanodevices, such as biomolecular sensors and artificial cells, have been conducted. This review is focused on the potential of nanotechnology in health care and medicine, including the development of nanoparticles for diagnostic and screening purposes, the manufacture of unique drug delivery systems, antisense and gene therapy applications and the enablement of tissue engineering, including the future of nanorobot construction.

Concise Review: Bioprinting of Stem Cells for Transplantable Tissue Fabrication.

PubMed

Leberfinger, Ashley N; Ravnic, Dino J; Dhawan, Aman; Ozbolat, Ibrahim T

2017-10-01

Bioprinting is a quickly progressing technology, which holds the potential to generate replacement tissues and organs. Stem cells offer several advantages over differentiated cells for use as starting materials, including the potential for autologous tissue and differentiation into multiple cell lines. The three most commonly used stem cells are embryonic, induced pluripotent, and adult stem cells. Cells are combined with various natural and synthetic materials to form bioinks, which are used to fabricate scaffold-based or scaffold-free constructs. Computer aided design technology is combined with various bioprinting modalities including droplet-, extrusion-, or laser-based bioprinting to create tissue constructs. Each bioink and modality has its own advantages and disadvantages. Various materials and techniques are combined to maximize the benefits. Researchers have been successful in bioprinting cartilage, bone, cardiac, nervous, liver, and vascular tissues. However, a major limitation to clinical translation is building large-scale vascularized constructs. Many challenges must be overcome before this technology is used routinely in a clinical setting. Stem Cells Translational Medicine 2017;6:1940-1948. © 2017 The Authors Stem Cells Translational Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of AlphaMed Press.

The trajectories of Prevention through Design in construction.

PubMed

Toole, T Michael; Gambatese, John

2008-01-01

Construction Hazards Prevention through Design (CHPtD) is a process in which engineers and architects explicitly consider the safety of construction workers during the design process. Although articles on CHPtD have appeared in top construction journals, the literature has not addressed technical principles underlying CHPtD to help designers better perform CHPtD, to facilitate the development of additional CHPtD tools, and to predict the future path of CHPtD. This theoretical paper uses the existing literature on CHPtD and current action research associated with several CHPtD workgroups to analyze how CHPtD will likely evolve over the coming decades. There are four trajectories along which CHPtD will progress. (a) Designs will increasingly facilitate prefabricated construction; (b) designers will increasingly choose materials and systems that are inherently safer than alternatives; (c) designers will increasingly perform construction engineering; and (d) designers will increasingly apply spatial considerations to reduce worker hazards. By understanding how CHPtD may be manifested in the engineering-procurement-construction (EPC) industry, practitioners can better prepare for adopting CHPtD within their organizations and construction and engineering educators can better prepare their graduates to perform CHPtD.

Development and Analysis of a Scale for Meauring Teachers' Sense of Efficacy in Urban Schools (SEUS).

PubMed

Garner, Mary; Kokan, Julie; Annis, Kathy; Baker, Mark; Phillips, Maggie; Head, Catherine; Hearrington, Doug; Yanosky, Daniel; Holbein, Marie

2015-01-01

Research in teacher self-efficacy has a long history that can be traced back to Bandura (1986) and has been shown to be linked to teacher performance. This article presents evidence for teacher self-efficacy in urban schools, a construct that is separate from but related to the more general construct of teacher self-efficacy. An instrument was developed and validated by a team of university faculty, urban teachers, and school administrators. The Teachers' Sense of Efficacy in Urban Schools (SEUS) is a 15-item instrument designed to address factors that are important for success in teaching in an urban environment, including working effectively with English language learners, students with disabilities, economically disadvantaged students, cultural diversity, literacy, technology, differentiation, and assessment data. The present study analyzes SEUS on multiple levels, using the Rasch partial credit model.

Calibration of the Test of Relational Reasoning.

PubMed

Dumas, Denis; Alexander, Patricia A

2016-10-01

Relational reasoning, or the ability to discern meaningful patterns within a stream of information, is a critical cognitive ability associated with academic and professional success. Importantly, relational reasoning has been described as taking multiple forms, depending on the type of higher order relations being drawn between and among concepts. However, the reliable and valid measurement of such a multidimensional construct of relational reasoning has been elusive. The Test of Relational Reasoning (TORR) was designed to tap 4 forms of relational reasoning (i.e., analogy, anomaly, antinomy, and antithesis). In this investigation, the TORR was calibrated and scored using multidimensional item response theory in a large, representative undergraduate sample. The bifactor model was identified as the best-fitting model, and used to estimate item parameters and construct reliability. To improve the usefulness of the TORR to educators, scaled scores were also calculated and presented. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved).

KSC-2009-6454

NASA Image and Video Library

2009-11-19

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. – At NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida, recipients of a NASA Team Award for their parts in the successful construction of NASA's first large-scale solar power generation facility pose for a group portrait. Representatives from NASA, Florida Power & Light Company, or FPL, and SunPower Corporation formally commissioned the one-megawatt facility and announced plans to pursue a new research, development and demonstration project at Kennedy to advance America's use of renewable energy. The facility is the first element of a major renewable energy project currently under construction at Kennedy. The completed system features a fixed-tilt, ground-mounted solar power system designed and built by SunPower, along with SunPower solar panels. A 10-megawatt solar farm, which SunPower is building on nearby Kennedy property, will supply power to FPL's customers when it is completed in April 2010. Photo credit: NASA/Jim Grossmann

Patient's Communication Perceived Self-efficacy Scale (PCSS): construction and validation of a new measure in a socio-cognitive perspective.

PubMed

Capone, Vincenza; Petrillo, Giovanna

2014-06-01

In two studies we constructed and validated the Patient's Communication Perceived Self-efficacy Scale (PCSS) designed to assess patients' beliefs about their capability to successfully manage problematic situations related to communication with doctor. The 20-item scale was administered to 179 outpatients (study 1). An Exploratory Factor Analysis revealed a three-factor solution. In study 2, the 16-item scale was administered to 890 outpatients. Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analyses supported the 3-factor solution (Provide and Collect information, Express concerns and doubts, Verify information) that showed good psychometric properties and was invariant for gender. PCSS is an easily administered, reliable, and valid test of patients' communication self-efficacy beliefs. It can be applied optimally in the empirical study of factors influencing doctor-patient communication and used in training aimed at strengthening patients' communication skills. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Toward the Design of Personalized Continuum Surgical Robots.

PubMed

Morimoto, Tania K; Greer, Joseph D; Hawkes, Elliot W; Hsieh, Michael H; Okamura, Allison M

2018-05-31

Robot-assisted minimally invasive surgical systems enable procedures with reduced pain, recovery time, and scarring compared to traditional surgery. While these improvements benefit a large number of patients, safe access to diseased sites is not always possible for specialized patient groups, including pediatric patients, due to their anatomical differences. We propose a patient-specific design paradigm that leverages the surgeon's expertise to design and fabricate robots based on preoperative medical images. The components of the patient-specific robot design process are a virtual reality design interface enabling the surgeon to design patient-specific tools, 3-D printing of these tools with a biodegradable polyester, and an actuation and control system for deployment. The designed robot is a concentric tube robot, a type of continuum robot constructed from precurved, elastic, nesting tubes. We demonstrate the overall patient-specific design workflow, from preoperative images to physical implementation, for an example clinical scenario: nonlinear renal access to a pediatric kidney. We also measure the system's behavior as it is deployed through real and artificial tissue. System integration and successful benchtop experiments in ex vivo liver and in a phantom patient model demonstrate the feasibility of using a patient-specific design workflow to plan, fabricate, and deploy personalized, flexible continuum robots.

Turbidity monitoring equipment and methodology evaluation at MDOT construction sites.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2014-12-01

State Study 261 is a continuation of State study 225, "Turbidity Monitoring at Select : MDOT Construction Sites", which was successful in establishing baseline stream data : at several active construction sites. State Study 261 focused on the equipme...

Consequences of least tern (Sternula antillarum) microhabitat nest-site selection on natural and mechanically constructed sandbars in the Missouri River

USGS Publications Warehouse

Stucker, Jennifer H.; Buhl, Deborah A.; Sherfy, Mark H.

2013-01-01

Nest-habitat selection in colonial species has rarely been assessed at multiple spatial scales to evaluate its fitness consequences. Management for the federally endangered U.S. Interior population of Least Terns (Sternula antillarum) has focused on maintenance of breeding habitats, including mechanical construction of sandbars from dredged material. Least Terns are attracted to large areas of unvegetated substrate, yet small-scale habitat features are thought to trigger selection for nesting. We evaluated nest-scale habitat selection to determine (1) whether selection differs between constructed and natural sandbars and (2) the subsequent consequences of habitat selection on nest success. During 2006–2008, we examined 869 Least Tern nest sites on constructed and natural sandbars in the Missouri River for evidence of microhabitat selection at the nest in relation to habitat within the surrounding 3-m area. Least Tern nest sites had coarser and larger substrate materials at the nest, more debris, and less vegetation than the surrounding area. Nests in constructed habitats had a greater percentage of coarse substrates and less vegetation or debris than nests in naturally created habitats. Apparent nest success was 1.8× greater on constructed than on natural sandbars. Nest success was best predicted by models with two spatial scales of predictors, including substrates (nest) and vegetation and debris (nest or surrounding area). Our results indicate that Least Terns select nest microhabitat characteristics that are associated with wind- and water-scoured habitats, and that nest success increases when these habitats are selected.

Design of Backpack to Aid Elderly for the Mazu Touring Procession in Taiwan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chao, F. L.; Huang, Y. C.; Su, J. Y.; Sun, C. L.; Chen, C. C.

2017-09-01

The Dajia Mazu Touring Procession is a 9-day long religious event held annually. However, for the elderly participants, it is a big burden especially in regards to physical strength. The goal of designing backpack is to reduce the physiological stress of elderly during the procession. Firstly, physical parameters were measured to explore the dimension parameters by testing. The height of the chair is different from that of the kneeling pad; a smooth curve was chosen to coordinate the two as the main outline of the backpack. Secondly, material selections based on following limits were considered: (1) acceptable weight and size, (2) intermediate price and (3) a design that is fitting to the Dajia event. The material and structural strength were evaluated for wood, bamboo, stainless steel. Two design concept were proposed, wood is selected for construction and testing by users. The texture of the backpack is Rush grass, it was built successfully to cover the backpack’s external surface to meet local culture features.

46 CFR 58.05-1 - Material, design and construction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... AUXILIARY MACHINERY AND RELATED SYSTEMS Main Propulsion Machinery § 58.05-1 Material, design and construction. (a) The material, design, construction, workmanship, and arrangement of main propulsion machinery...

46 CFR 58.05-1 - Material, design and construction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... AUXILIARY MACHINERY AND RELATED SYSTEMS Main Propulsion Machinery § 58.05-1 Material, design and construction. (a) The material, design, construction, workmanship, and arrangement of main propulsion machinery...

46 CFR 58.05-1 - Material, design and construction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... AUXILIARY MACHINERY AND RELATED SYSTEMS Main Propulsion Machinery § 58.05-1 Material, design and construction. (a) The material, design, construction, workmanship, and arrangement of main propulsion machinery...

46 CFR 58.05-1 - Material, design and construction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... AUXILIARY MACHINERY AND RELATED SYSTEMS Main Propulsion Machinery § 58.05-1 Material, design and construction. (a) The material, design, construction, workmanship, and arrangement of main propulsion machinery...

46 CFR 58.05-1 - Material, design and construction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... AUXILIARY MACHINERY AND RELATED SYSTEMS Main Propulsion Machinery § 58.05-1 Material, design and construction. (a) The material, design, construction, workmanship, and arrangement of main propulsion machinery...

The highly successful safe remediation of the Fernald waste pits undertaken under the privatization model

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

Cherry, Mark; Lojek, Dave; Murphy, Con

2003-02-23

Remediation of eight waste pits at the Department of Energy (DOE) Fernald site, located northwest of Cincinnati, Ohio, involves excavating approximately one million tonnes in-situ of low-level waste which were placed in pits during Fernald's production era. This unique project, one of the largest in the history of CERCLA/Superfund, includes uranium and thorium contaminated waste, soils and sludges. These wet soils and sludges are thermally dried in a processing facility to meet Department of Transportation (DOT) transportation and disposal facility waste acceptance criteria, loaded into railcars and shipped to the Envirocare waste disposal facility at Clive, Utah. This project ismore » now approximately 60% complete with more than 415,000 tonnes (460,000 tons) of waste material safely shipped in 74 unit trains to Envirocare. Work is scheduled to be completed in early 2005. Success to date demonstrates that a major DOE site remediation project can be safely and successfully executed in partnership with private industry, utilizing proven commercial best practices, existing site labor resources and support of local stakeholders. In 1997 under the DOE's privatization initiative, Fluor Fernald, Inc. (Fluor Fernald) solicited the services of the remediation industry to design, engineer, procure, construct, own and operate a facility that would undertake the remediation of the waste pits. The resulting procurement was awarded to IT Corporation, currently Shaw Environmental and Infrastructure, Inc. (Shaw). The contractor was required to finance the procurement and construction of its facilities and infrastructure. The contract was performance-based and payment would be made on the successful loadout of the waste from the facility on a per-ton basis meeting the Envirocare waste acceptance criteria. This paper details the performance to date, the challenges encountered, and the seamless partnering between DOE, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Fluor Fernald, Shaw, labor un ions, and the local community in creating and executing a successful project.« less

SU-F-E-10: Student-Driven Exploration of Radiographic Material Properties, Phantom Construction, and Clinical Workflows Or: The Extraordinary Life of CANDY MAN

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

Mahon, RN; Riblett, MJ; Hugo, GD

Purpose: To develop a hands-on learning experience that explores the radiological and structural properties of everyday items and applies this knowledge to design a simple phantom for radiotherapy exercises. Methods: Students were asked to compile a list of readily available materials thought to have radiation attenuation properties similar to tissues within the human torso. Participants scanned samples of suggested materials and regions of interest (ROIs) were used to characterize bulk attenuation properties. Properties of each material were assessed via comparison to a Gammex Tissue characterization phantom and used to construct a list of inexpensive near-tissue-equivalent materials. Critical discussions focusing onmore » samples found to differ from student expectations were used to revise and narrow the comprehensive list. From their newly acquired knowledge, students designed and constructed a simple thoracic phantom for use in a simulated clinical workflow. Students were tasked with setting up the phantom and acquiring planning CT images for use in treatment planning and dose delivery. Results: Under engineer and physicist supervision, students were trained to use a CT simulator and acquired images for approximately 60 different foodstuffs, candies, and household items. Through peer discussion, students gained valuable insights and were made to review preconceptions about radiographic material properties. From a subset of imaged materials, a simple phantom was successfully designed and constructed to represent a human thorax. Students received hands-on experience with clinical treatment workflows by learning how to perform CT simulation, create a treatment plan for an embedded tumor, align the phantom for treatment, and deliver a treatment fraction. Conclusion: In this activity, students demonstrated their ability to reason through the radiographic material selection process, construct a simple phantom to specifications, and exercise their knowledge of clinical workflows. Furthermore, the enjoyable and inexpensive nature of this project proved to attract participant interest and drive creative exploration. Mahon and Riblett have nothing to disclose; Hugo has a research agreement with Phillips Medical systems, a license agreement with Varian Medical Systems, research grants from the National Institute of Health. Authors do not have any potential conflicts of interest to disclose.« less

Dual methods and approximation concepts in structural synthesis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fleury, C.; Schmit, L. A., Jr.

1980-01-01

Approximation concepts and dual method algorithms are combined to create a method for minimum weight design of structural systems. Approximation concepts convert the basic mathematical programming statement of the structural synthesis problem into a sequence of explicit primal problems of separable form. These problems are solved by constructing explicit dual functions, which are maximized subject to nonnegativity constraints on the dual variables. It is shown that the joining together of approximation concepts and dual methods can be viewed as a generalized optimality criteria approach. The dual method is successfully extended to deal with pure discrete and mixed continuous-discrete design variable problems. The power of the method presented is illustrated with numerical results for example problems, including a metallic swept wing and a thin delta wing with fiber composite skins.

Space Shuttle 2 Advanced Space Transportation System. Volume 1: Executive Summary

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adinaro, James N.; Benefield, Philip A.; Johnson, Shelby D.; Knight, Lisa K.

1989-01-01

An investigation into the feasibility of establishing a second generation space transportation system is summarized. Incorporating successful systems from the Space Shuttle and technological advances made since its conception, the second generation shuttle was designed to be a lower-cost, reliable system which would guarantee access to space well into the next century. A fully reusable, all-liquid propellant booster/orbiter combination using parallel burn was selected as the base configuration. Vehicle characteristics were determined from NASA ground rules and optimization evaluations. The launch profile was constructed from particulars of the vehicle design and known orbital requirements. A stability and control analysis was performed for the landing phase of the orbiter's flight. Finally, a preliminary safety analysis was performed to indicate possible failure modes and consequences.

Nano-Aptasensing in Mycotoxin Analysis: Recent Updates and Progress.

PubMed

Rhouati, Amina; Bulbul, Gonca; Latif, Usman; Hayat, Akhtar; Li, Zhan-Hong; Marty, Jean Louis

2017-10-28

Recent years have witnessed an overwhelming integration of nanomaterials in the fabrication of biosensors. Nanomaterials have been incorporated with the objective to achieve better analytical figures of merit in terms of limit of detection, linear range, assays stability, low production cost, etc. Nanomaterials can act as immobilization support, signal amplifier, mediator and artificial enzyme label in the construction of aptasensors. We aim in this work to review the recent progress in mycotoxin analysis. This review emphasizes on the function of the different nanomaterials in aptasensors architecture. We subsequently relate their features to the analytical performance of the given aptasensor towards mycotoxins monitoring. In the same context, a critically analysis and level of success for each nano-aptasensing design will be discussed. Finally, current challenges in nano-aptasensing design for mycotoxin analysis will be highlighted.

Rechargeable quasi-solid state lithium battery with organic crystalline cathode

PubMed Central

Hanyu, Yuki; Honma, Itaru

2012-01-01

Utilization of metal-free low-cost high-capacity organic cathodes for lithium batteries has been a long-standing goal, but critical cyclability problems owing to dissolution of active materials into the electrolyte have been an inevitable obstacle. For practical utilisation of numerous cathode-active compounds proposed over the past decades, a novel battery construction strategy is required. We have designed a solid state cell that accommodates organic cathodic reactions in solid phase. The cell was successful at achieving high capacity exceeding 200 mAh/g with excellent cycleability. Further investigations confirmed that our strategy is effective for numerous other redox-active organic compounds. This implies hundreds of compounds dismissed before due to low cycleability would worth a re-visit under solid state design. PMID:22693655

A new mobile ubiquitous computing application to control obesity: SapoFit.

PubMed

Rodrigues, Joel J P C; Lopes, Ivo M C; Silva, Bruno M C; Torre, Isabel de La

2013-01-01

The objective of this work was the proposal, design, construction and validation of a mobile health system for dietetic monitoring and assessment, called SapoFit. This application may be personalized to keep a daily personal health record of an individual's food intake and daily exercise and to share this with a social network. The initiative is a partnership with SAPO - Portugal Telecom. SapoFit uses Web services architecture, a relatively new model for distributed computing and application integration. SapoFit runs on a range of mobile platforms, and it has been implemented successfully in a range of mobile devices and has been evaluated by over 100 users. Most users strongly agree that SapoFit has an attractive design, the environment is user-friendly and intuitive, and the navigation options are clear.

Granular Materials and the Risks They Pose for Success on the Moon and Mars

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wilkinson, R. Allen; Behringer, Robert P.; Jenkins, James T.; Louge, Michel Y.

2004-01-01

Working with soil, sand, powders, ores, cement and sintered bricks, excavating, grading construction sites, driving off-road, transporting granules in chutes and pipes, sifting gravel, separating solids from gases, and using hoppers are so routine that it seems straightforward to do it on the Moon and Mars as we do it on Earth. This paper brings to the fore how little these processes are understood and the millennia-long trial-and-error practices that lead to today's massive over-design, high failure rate, and extensive incremental scaling up of industrial processes because of the inadequate predictive tools for design. We present a number of pragmatic scenarios where granular materials play a role, the risks involved, and what understanding is needed to greatly reduce the risks.

Granular Materials and the Risks They Pose for Success on the Moon and Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wilkinson, R. Allen; Behringer, Robert P.; Jenkins, James T.; Louge, Michel Y.

2005-02-01

Working with soil, sand, powders, ores, cement and sintered bricks, excavating, grading construction sites, driving off-road, transporting granules in chutes and pipes, sifting gravel, separating solids from gases, and using hoppers are so routine that it seems straightforward to do it on the Moon and Mars as we do it on Earth. This paper brings to the fore how little these processes are understood and the millennia-long trial-and-error practices that lead to today's massive over-design, high failure rate, and extensive incremental scaling up of industrial processes because of the inadequate predictive tools for design. We present a number of pragmatic scenarios where granular materials play a role, the risks involved, and what understanding is needed to greatly reduce the risks.

Demand Analysis of Logistics Information Matching Platform: A Survey from Highway Freight Market in Zhejiang Province

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Daqiang; Shen, Xiahong; Tong, Bing; Zhu, Xiaoxiao; Feng, Tao

With the increasing competition in logistics industry and promotion of lower logistics costs requirements, the construction of logistics information matching platform for highway transportation plays an important role, and the accuracy of platform design is the key to successful operation or not. Based on survey results of logistics service providers, customers and regulation authorities to access to information and in-depth information demand analysis of logistics information matching platform for highway transportation in Zhejiang province, a survey analysis for framework of logistics information matching platform for highway transportation is provided.

The Role of Leisure Engagement for Health Benefits Among Korean Older Women.

PubMed

Kim, Junhyoung; Irwin, Lori; Kim, May; Chin, Seungtae; Kim, Jun

2015-01-01

This qualitative study was designed to examine the benefits of leisure to older Korean women. Using a constructive grounded theory methodology, in this study we identified three categories of benefits from leisure activities: (a) developing social connections, (b) enhancing psychological well-being, and (c) improving physical health. The findings of this study demonstrate that involvement in leisure activities offers substantial physical, psychological, and social benefits for older Korean women. The results also suggest that these benefits can provide an opportunity for older Korean adults to improve their health and well-being, which, in turn, may help promote successful aging.

Oral vaccination of captive small Indian mongoose (Herpestes auropunctatus) against rabies.

PubMed

Vos, Ad; Kretzschmar, Antje; Ortmann, Steffen; Lojkic, Ivana; Habla, Christiane; Müller, Thomas; Kaiser, Christian; Hundt, Boris; Schuster, Peter

2013-10-01

The small Indian mongoose (Herpestes auropunctatus), a rabies reservoir species on several Islands in the Caribbean, was successfully immunized against rabies for the first time by offering animals a vaccine bait specifically designed for this small carnivore. The bait contained on average 0.6 mL of the genetically modified replication-competent rabies virus construct SPBN GASGAS (10(8.5) focus-forming units/mL). Three of four mongooses offered a bait developed an immune response above 0.5 IU/mL, but the response was less pronounced than in two animals offered the vaccine by direct oral instillation.

Electronic delay ignition module for single bridgewire Apollo standard initiator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ward, R. D.

1975-01-01

An engineering model and a qualification model of the EDIM were constructed and tested to Scout flight qualification criteria. The qualification model incorporated design improvements resulting from the engineering model tests. Compatibility with single bridgewire Apollo standard initiator (SBASI) was proven by test firing forty-five (45) SBASI's with worst case voltage and temperature conditions. The EDIM was successfully qualified for Scout flight application with no failures during testing of the qualification unit. Included is a method of implementing the EDIM into Scout vehicle hardware and the ground support equipment necessary to check out the system.

Digital logic circuit based on two component molecular systems of BSA and salen

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hai-Bin, Lin; Feng, Chen; Hong-Xu, Guo

2018-02-01

A new fluorescent molecular probe 1 was designed and constructed by combining bovine serum albumin (BSA) and N,N‧-bis(salicylidene)ethylenediamine (salen). Stimulated by Zn2 +, tris, or EDTAH2Na2, the distance between BSA and salen was regulated, which was accompanied by an obvious change in the fluorescence intensity at 350 or 445 nm based on Förster resonance energy transfer. Moreover, based on the encoding binary digits in these inputs and outputs applying positive logic conventions, a monomolecular circuit integrating one OR, three NOT, and three YES gates, was successfully achieved.

A Prussian Blue-Based Core-Shell Hollow-Structured Mesoporous Nanoparticle as a Smart Theranostic Agent with Ultrahigh pH-Responsive Longitudinal Relaxivity.

PubMed

Cai, Xiaojun; Gao, Wei; Ma, Ming; Wu, Meiying; Zhang, Linlin; Zheng, Yuanyi; Chen, Hangrong; Shi, Jianlin

2015-11-04

Novel core-shell hollow mesoporous Prussian blue @ Mn-containing Prussian blue analogue (HMPB@MnPBA) nanoparticles, designated as HMPB-Mn) as an intelligent theranostic nanoagent, are successfully constructed by coating a similarly crystal-structured MnPBA onto HMPB. This can be used as a pH-responsive T1 -weighted magnetic resonance imaging contrast agent with ultrahigh longitudinal relaxivity (r1 = 7.43 m m(-1) s(-1) ), and achieves the real-time monitoring of drug release. © 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Development tests of LOX/LH2 tank for H-I launch vehicle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takamatsu, H.; Imagawa, K.; Ichimaru, Y.

1984-10-01

The design and preliminary test performance of an integrated LOX/LH2 tank for the second-stage propulsion system of the H-I launch be vehicle being developed by NASDA are presented and illustrated with drawings, diagrams, photographs, graphs, and tables. The tank has length 5.7 m, diameter 2.5 m, and capacity 8.7 tons and is constructed of 2219 Al alloy. The common bulkhead of Al-alloy-covered GFRP honeycomb, identified as the most critical component, has successfully completed extensive mechanical and thermal testing of both subscale and prototype models.

A Review of International Space Station Habitable Element Equipment Offgassing Characteristics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Perry, Jay L.

2010-01-01

Crewed spacecraft trace contaminant control employs both passive and active methods to achieve acceptable cabin atmospheric quality. Passive methods include carefully selecting materials of construction, employing clean manufacturing practices, and minimizing systems and payload operational impacts to the cabin environment. Materials selection and manufacturing processes constitute the first level of equipment offgassing control. An element-level equipment offgassing test provides preflight verification that passive controls have been successful. Offgassing test results from multiple International Space Station (ISS) habitable elements and cargo vehicles are summarized and implications for active contamination control equipment design are discussed

Israel Electric joins oil shale power plant project

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

Not Available

1986-12-01

The Israel Electric Corporation has purchased a 25% share in PAMA (Energy Resources Development, Ltd). PAMA is planning to build a 7 1/2 megawatt shale-fired demonstration plant at Mishor Rotem in Israel. The demonstration cogeneration plant is being designed to produce 42 tons/hours of steam for use in nearby phosphate plants, and also produce electricity. Construction of the demonstration plant is expected to begin in early 1987 and be completed within 2 years. It will be based on fluidized bed technology. Successful operation of the demo plant could then lead to a 50 to 100 megawatt or larger commercial plant.

40 CFR 125.99 - What are approved design and construction technologies?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... construction technologies? 125.99 Section 125.99 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY...) of the Act § 125.99 What are approved design and construction technologies? (a) The following technologies constitute approved design and construction technologies for purposes of § 125.94(a)(4): (1...

40 CFR 125.99 - What are approved design and construction technologies?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... construction technologies? 125.99 Section 125.99 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY...) of the Act § 125.99 What are approved design and construction technologies? (a) The following technologies constitute approved design and construction technologies for purposes of § 125.94(a)(4): (1...

40 CFR 125.99 - What are approved design and construction technologies?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... construction technologies? 125.99 Section 125.99 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY...) of the Act § 125.99 What are approved design and construction technologies? (a) The following technologies constitute approved design and construction technologies for purposes of § 125.94(a)(4): (1...

40 CFR 125.99 - What are approved design and construction technologies?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... construction technologies? 125.99 Section 125.99 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY...) of the Act § 125.99 What are approved design and construction technologies? (a) The following technologies constitute approved design and construction technologies for purposes of § 125.94(a)(4): (1...

36 CFR 223.38 - Standards for road design and construction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Provisions § 223.38 Standards for road design and construction. Road construction authorized under timber... 36 Parks, Forests, and Public Property 2 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Standards for road design and construction. 223.38 Section 223.38 Parks, Forests, and Public Property FOREST SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF...

40 CFR 125.99 - What are approved design and construction technologies?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... construction technologies? 125.99 Section 125.99 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY...) of the Act § 125.99 What are approved design and construction technologies? (a) The following technologies constitute approved design and construction technologies for purposes of § 125.94(a)(4): (1...

Professional Success and Gender in Family Medicine: Design of Scales and Examination of Gender Differences in Subjective and Objective Success Among Family Physicians.

PubMed

Delgado, Ana; Saletti-Cuesta, Lorena; López-Fernández, Luis Andrés; Toro-Cárdenas, Silvia; Luna del Castillo, Juan de Dios

2016-03-01

Two components of professional success have been defined: objective career success (OCS) and subjective career success (SCS). Despite the increasing number of women practicing medicine, gender inequalities persist. The objectives of this descriptive, cross-sectional, and multicenter study were (a) to construct and validate OCS and SCS scales, (b) to determine the relationships between OCS and SCS and between each scale and professional/family characteristics, and (c) to compare these associations between male and female family physicians (FPs). The study sample comprised 250 female and 250 male FPs from urban health centers in Andalusia (Spain). Data were gathered over 6 months on gender, age, care load, professional/family variables, and family-work balance, using a self-administered questionnaire. OSC and SCS scales were examined by using exploratory factorial analysis and Cronbach's α, and scores were compared by gender-stratified bivariate and multiple regression analyses. Intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated using a multilevel analysis. The response rate was 73.6%. We identified three OCS factors and two SCS factors. Lower scores were obtained by female versus male FPs in the OCS dimensions, but there were no gender differences in either SCS dimension. © The Author(s) 2014.

45 CFR 1232.15 - New construction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 45 Public Welfare 4 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false New construction. 1232.15 Section 1232.15 Public... Accessibility § 1232.15 New construction. (a) Design, construction, and alteration. New facilities shall be designed and constructed to be readily accessible to and usable by handicapped persons. construction shall...

45 CFR 1232.15 - New construction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 45 Public Welfare 4 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false New construction. 1232.15 Section 1232.15 Public... Accessibility § 1232.15 New construction. (a) Design, construction, and alteration. New facilities shall be designed and constructed to be readily accessible to and usable by handicapped persons. construction shall...

45 CFR 1232.15 - New construction.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 45 Public Welfare 4 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false New construction. 1232.15 Section 1232.15 Public... Accessibility § 1232.15 New construction. (a) Design, construction, and alteration. New facilities shall be designed and constructed to be readily accessible to and usable by handicapped persons. construction shall...

A simple, semi-prescriptive self-assessment model for TQM.

PubMed

Warwood, Stephen; Antony, Jiju

2003-01-01

This article presents a simple, semi-prescriptive self-assessment model for use in industry as part of a continuous improvement program such as Total Quality Management (TQM). The process by which the model was constructed started with a review of the available literature in order to research TQM success factors. Next, postal surveys were conducted by sending questionnaires to the winning organisations of the Baldrige and European Quality Awards and to a preselected group of enterprising UK organisations. From the analysis of this data, the self-assessment model was constructed to help organisations in their quest for excellence. This work confirmed the findings from the literature, that there are key factors that contribute to the successful implementation of TQM and these have different levels of importance. These key factors, in order of importance, are: effective leadership, the impact of other quality-related programs, measurement systems, organisational culture, education and training, the use of teams, efficient communications, active empowerment of the workforce, and a systems infrastructure to support the business and customer-focused processes. This analysis, in turn, enabled the design of a self-assessment model that can be applied within any business setting. Further work should include the testing and review of this model to ascertain its suitability and effectiveness within industry today.

49 CFR 41.110 - New DOT owned buildings and additions to buildings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... architect's authenticated verifications of seismic design codes, standards, and practices used in the design... for the design and construction of new DOT Federally owned buildings will ensure that each building is designed and constructed in accord with the seismic design and construction standards set out in § 41.120...

A strategy to sample nutrient dynamics across the terrestrial-aquatic interface at NEON sites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hinckley, E. S.; Goodman, K. J.; Roehm, C. L.; Meier, C. L.; Luo, H.; Ayres, E.; Parnell, J.; Krause, K.; Fox, A. M.; SanClements, M.; Fitzgerald, M.; Barnett, D.; Loescher, H. W.; Schimel, D.

2012-12-01

The construction of the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) across the U.S. creates the opportunity for researchers to investigate biogeochemical transformations and transfers across ecosystems at local-to-continental scales. Here, we examine a subset of NEON sites where atmospheric, terrestrial, and aquatic observations will be collected for 30 years. These sites are located across a range of hydrological regimes, including flashy rain-driven, shallow sub-surface (perched, pipe-flow, etc), and deep groundwater, which likely affect the chemical forms and quantities of reactive elements that are retained and/or mobilized across landscapes. We present a novel spatial and temporal sampling design that enables researchers to evaluate long-term trends in carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus biogeochemical cycles under these different hydrological regimes. This design focuses on inputs to the terrestrial system (atmospheric deposition, bulk precipitation), transfers (soil-water and groundwater sources/chemistry), and outputs (surface water, and evapotranspiration). We discuss both data that will be collected as part of the current NEON design, as well as how the research community can supplement the NEON design through collaborative efforts, such as providing additional datasets, including soil biogeochemical processes and trace gas emissions, and developing collaborative research networks. Current engagement with the research community working at the terrestrial-aquatic interface is critical to NEON's success as we begin construction, to ensure that high-quality, standardized and useful data are not only made available, but inspire further, cutting-edge research.

Influence of active site location on catalytic activity in de novo-designed zinc metalloenzymes.

PubMed

Zastrow, Melissa L; Pecoraro, Vincent L

2013-04-17

While metalloprotein design has now yielded a number of successful metal-bound and even catalytically active constructs, the question of where to put a metal site along a linear, repetitive sequence has not been thoroughly addressed. Often several possibilities in a given sequence may exist that would appear equivalent but may in fact differ for metal affinity, substrate access, or protein dynamics. We present a systematic variation of active site location for a hydrolytically active ZnHis3O site contained within a de novo-designed three-stranded coiled coil. We find that the maximal rate, substrate access, and metal-binding affinity are dependent on the selected position, while catalytic efficiency for p-nitrophenyl acetate hydrolysis can be retained regardless of the location of the active site. This achievement demonstrates how efficient, tailor-made enzymes which control rate, pKa, substrate and solvent access (and selectivity), and metal-binding affinity may be realized. These findings may be applied to the more advanced de novo design of constructs containing secondary interactions, such as hydrogen-bonding channels. We are now confident that changes to location for accommodating such channels can be achieved without location-dependent loss of catalytic efficiency. These findings bring us closer to our ultimate goal of incorporating the secondary interactions we believe will be necessary in order to improve both active site properties and the catalytic efficiency to be competitive with the native enzyme, carbonic anhydrase.

78 FR 57211 - Notice of Passenger Facility Charge (PFC) Approvals and Disapprovals

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-09-17

... rehabilitation design. Taxiway/apron/fuel road pavement replacement. Taxiway/apron/fuel road pavement replacement... Description of Projects Approved for Collection and Use: Taxiway F improvements (design and construction). Drainage ditch improvements (design and construction). Apron C expansion (design and construction...

Structure-guided design and functional characterization of an artificial red light-regulated guanylate/adenylate cyclase for optogenetic applications.

PubMed

Etzl, Stefan; Lindner, Robert; Nelson, Matthew D; Winkler, Andreas

2018-06-08

Genetically targeting biological systems to control cellular processes with light is the concept of optogenetics. Despite impressive developments in this field, underlying molecular mechanisms of signal transduction of the employed photoreceptor modules are frequently not sufficiently understood to rationally design new optogenetic tools. Here, we investigate the requirements for functional coupling of red light-sensing phytochromes with non-natural enzymatic effectors by creating a series of constructs featuring the Deinococcus radiodurans bacteriophytochrome linked to a Synechocystis guanylate/adenylate cyclase. Incorporating characteristic structural elements important for cyclase regulation in our designs, we identified several red light-regulated fusions with promising properties. We provide details of one light-activated construct with low dark-state activity and high dynamic range that outperforms previous optogenetic tools in vitro and expands our in vivo toolkit, as demonstrated by manipulation of Caenorhabditis elegans locomotor activity. The full-length crystal structure of this phytochrome-linked cyclase revealed molecular details of photoreceptor-effector coupling, highlighting the importance of the regulatory cyclase element. Analysis of conformational dynamics by hydrogen-deuterium exchange in different functional states enriched our understanding of phytochrome signaling and signal integration by effectors. We found that light-induced conformational changes in the phytochrome destabilize the coiled-coil sensor-effector linker, which releases the cyclase regulatory element from an inhibited conformation, increasing cyclase activity of this artificial system. Future designs of optogenetic functionalities may benefit from our work, indicating that rational considerations for the effector improve the rate of success of initial designs to obtain optogenetic tools with superior properties. © 2018 Etzl et al.

The Human Powered Submarine Team of Virginia Tech Propulsion System Design Final Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

An, Eric; Bennett, Matt; Callis, Ron; Chen, Chester; Lee, John; Milan-Williams, Kristy

1999-01-01

The Human Powered Submarine Team has been in existence at Virginia Tech since its conception in 1993. Since then, it has served as a way for engineering students from many different disciplines to implement design conception and realization. The first submarine built was Phantom 1, a two-man submarine made of fiberglass. After construction was complete, Phantom 1 was ready for racing, but, unfortunately, suffered fatal problems come race time. The submarine team slowed down a bit after experiencing racing problems, but was revived in 1995 when design efforts for a new two-man submarine, the Phantom 2 commence. The propulsion system consisted of a chain and gear drive system using an ultra-light helicopter tail rotor for a propeller. Although the team learned valuable lessons as a result of Phantom 1's problems, Phantom 2 still experiences problems at races. After various parts of Phantom 2 are redesigned, it is once again ready for racing and proves that the redesign was well worth the time and effort. In 1997, Phantom 2 not only finishes its first race, held in San Diego, California, but comes in third. This success sparks yet another revival of the submarine team and design for the team's current project, the Phantom 3, a one-man submarine, is started. In 1998, the plug for Phantom 3 is built and the hull is constructed. With so many past problems from which to learn, Phantom 3 promises to be the fastest and best-designed submarine the team has developed thus far. The current speed world-record is 7 knots.

Progress of a room temperature electron cyclotron resonance ion source using evaporative cooling technology at Institute of Modern Physics

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

Lu, W., E-mail: luwang@impcas.ac.cn; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049; Xiong, B.

2014-02-15

A new room temperature ECR ion source, Lanzhou Electron Cyclotron Resonance ion source No. 4 (LECR4, previously named DRAGON), is under intense construction at Institute of Modern Physics. LECR4 is designed to operate with 18 GHz microwave frequency. The maximum axial magnetic fields are 2.3 T at injection and 1.3 T at extraction, and the radial field at the plasma chamber wall of 76 mm inner diameter is 1.0–1.2 T. One of the unique features for LECR4 is that its axial solenoids are winded with solid square copper wires which are immersed in a kind of special evaporative cooling mediummore » for cooling purpose. Till now, a prototype of the cooling system has been successfully constructed and tested, which has demonstrated that the cooling efficiency of the designed system could meet the requirements of LECR4 under the routine operation conditions. All the main components of the ion source have been completed. Assembly and commissioning is ongoing. The latest developments and test results will be presented in this paper.« less

Development of a Multi-frequency Interferometer Telescope for Radio Astronomy (MITRA)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ingala, Dominique Guelord Kumamputu

2015-03-01

This dissertation describes the development and construction of the Multi-frequency Interferometer Telescope for Radio Astronomy (MITRA) at the Durban University of Technology. The MITRA station consists of 2 antenna arrays separated by a baseline distance of 8 m. Each array consists of 8 Log-Periodic Dipole Antennas (LPDAs) operating from 200 MHz to 800 MHz. The design and construction of the LPDA antenna and receiver system is described. The receiver topology provides an equivalent noise temperature of 113.1 K and 55.1 dB of gain. The Intermediate Frequency (IF) stage was designed to produce a fixed IF frequency of 800 MHz. The digital Back-End and correlator were implemented using a low cost Software Defined Radio (SDR) platform and Gnu-Radio software. Gnu-Octave was used for data analysis to generate the relevant received signal parameters including total power, real, and imaginary, magnitude and phase components. Measured results show that interference fringes were successfully detected within the bandwidth of the receiver using a Radio Frequency (RF) generator as a simulated source. This research was presented at the IEEE Africon 2013 / URSI Session Mauritius, and published in the proceedings.

In Situ Neutron Powder Diffraction Using Custom-made Lithium-ion Batteries

PubMed Central

Brant, William R.; Schmid, Siegbert; Du, Guodong; Brand, Helen E. A.; Pang, Wei Kong; Peterson, Vanessa K.; Guo, Zaiping; Sharma, Neeraj

2014-01-01

Li-ion batteries are widely used in portable electronic devices and are considered as promising candidates for higher-energy applications such as electric vehicles.1,2 However, many challenges, such as energy density and battery lifetimes, need to be overcome before this particular battery technology can be widely implemented in such applications.3 This research is challenging, and we outline a method to address these challenges using in situ NPD to probe the crystal structure of electrodes undergoing electrochemical cycling (charge/discharge) in a battery. NPD data help determine the underlying structural mechanism responsible for a range of electrode properties, and this information can direct the development of better electrodes and batteries. We briefly review six types of battery designs custom-made for NPD experiments and detail the method to construct the ‘roll-over’ cell that we have successfully used on the high-intensity NPD instrument, WOMBAT, at the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO). The design considerations and materials used for cell construction are discussed in conjunction with aspects of the actual in situ NPD experiment and initial directions are presented on how to analyze such complex in situ data. PMID:25406578

The design and implementation of multi-source application middleware based on service bus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Yichun; Jiang, Ningkang

2017-06-01

With the rapid development of the Internet of Things(IoT), the real-time monitoring data are increasing with different types and large amounts. Aiming at taking full advantages of the data, we designed and implemented an application middleware, which not only supports the three-layer architecture of IoT information system but also enables the flexible configuration of multiple resources access and other accessional modules. The middleware platform shows the characteristics of lightness, security, AoP (aspect-oriented programming), distribution and real-time, which can let application developers construct the information processing systems on related areas in a short period. It focuses not limited to these functions: pre-processing of data format, the definition of data entity, the callings and handlings of distributed service and massive data process. The result of experiment shows that the performance of middleware is more excellent than some message queue construction to some degree and its throughput grows better as the number of distributed nodes increases while the code is not complex. Currently, the middleware is applied to the system of Shanghai Pudong environmental protection agency and achieved a great success.