Work-Based Mentor Training for Pennsylvania's School-to-Work System. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walker, Thomas J.; And Others

Three Pennsylvania universities focused on defining the functional role and identifying the training needs of work-based mentors for Pennsylvania's system of school-to-work transition, in order to design a training protocol. Interviews were conducted with 81 experienced employees concerning their view of the mentoring role and the activities that…

Exact results for the finite time thermodynamic uncertainty relation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Manikandan, Sreekanth K.; Krishnamurthy, Supriya

2018-03-01

We obtain exact results for the recently discovered finite-time thermodynamic uncertainty relation, for the dissipated work W d , in a stochastically driven system with non-Gaussian work statistics, both in the steady state and transient regimes, by obtaining exact expressions for any moment of W d at arbitrary times. The uncertainty function (the Fano factor of W d ) is bounded from below by 2k_BT as expected, for all times τ, in both steady state and transient regimes. The lower bound is reached at τ=0 as well as when certain system parameters vanish (corresponding to an equilibrium state). Surprisingly, we find that the uncertainty function also reaches a constant value at large τ for all the cases we have looked at. For a system starting and remaining in steady state, the uncertainty function increases monotonically, as a function of τ as well as other system parameters, implying that the large τ value is also an upper bound. For the same system in the transient regime, however, we find that the uncertainty function can have a local minimum at an accessible time τm , for a range of parameter values. The large τ value for the uncertainty function is hence not a bound in this case. The non-monotonicity suggests, rather counter-intuitively, that there might be an optimal time for the working of microscopic machines, as well as an optimal configuration in the phase space of parameter values. Our solutions show that the ratios of higher moments of the dissipated work are also bounded from below by 2k_BT . For another model, also solvable by our methods, which never reaches a steady state, the uncertainty function, is in some cases, bounded from below by a value less than 2k_BT .

Maternal IL-6 during pregnancy can be estimated from newborn brain connectivity and predicts future working memory in offspring.

PubMed

Rudolph, Marc D; Graham, Alice M; Feczko, Eric; Miranda-Dominguez, Oscar; Rasmussen, Jerod M; Nardos, Rahel; Entringer, Sonja; Wadhwa, Pathik D; Buss, Claudia; Fair, Damien A

2018-05-01

Several lines of evidence support the link between maternal inflammation during pregnancy and increased likelihood of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders in offspring. This longitudinal study seeks to advance understanding regarding implications of systemic maternal inflammation during pregnancy, indexed by plasma interleukin-6 (IL-6) concentrations, for large-scale brain system development and emerging executive function skills in offspring. We assessed maternal IL-6 during pregnancy, functional magnetic resonance imaging acquired in neonates, and working memory (an important component of executive function) at 2 years of age. Functional connectivity within and between multiple neonatal brain networks can be modeled to estimate maternal IL-6 concentrations during pregnancy. Brain regions heavily weighted in these models overlap substantially with those supporting working memory in a large meta-analysis. Maternal IL-6 also directly accounts for a portion of the variance of working memory at 2 years of age. Findings highlight the association of maternal inflammation during pregnancy with the developing functional architecture of the brain and emerging executive function.

Functional Analysis in Long-Term Operation of High Power UV-LEDs in Continuous Fluoro-Sensing Systems for Hydrocarbon Pollution

PubMed Central

Arques-Orobon, Francisco Jose; Nuñez, Neftali; Vazquez, Manuel; Gonzalez-Posadas, Vicente

2016-01-01

This work analyzes the long-term functionality of HP (High-power) UV-LEDs (Ultraviolet Light Emitting Diodes) as the exciting light source in non-contact, continuous 24/7 real-time fluoro-sensing pollutant identification in inland water. Fluorescence is an effective alternative in the detection and identification of hydrocarbons. The HP UV-LEDs are more advantageous than classical light sources (xenon and mercury lamps) and helps in the development of a low cost, non-contact, and compact system for continuous real-time fieldwork. This work analyzes the wavelength, output optical power, and the effects of viscosity, temperature of the water pollutants, and the functional consistency for long-term HP UV-LED working operation. To accomplish the latter, an analysis of the influence of two types 365 nm HP UV-LEDs degradation under two continuous real-system working mode conditions was done, by temperature Accelerated Life Tests (ALTs). These tests estimate the mean life under continuous working conditions of 6200 h and for cycled working conditions (30 s ON & 30 s OFF) of 66,000 h, over 7 years of 24/7 operating life of hydrocarbon pollution monitoring. In addition, the durability in the face of the internal and external parameter system variations is evaluated. PMID:26927113

Functional Analysis in Long-Term Operation of High Power UV-LEDs in Continuous Fluoro-Sensing Systems for Hydrocarbon Pollution.

PubMed

Arques-Orobon, Francisco Jose; Nuñez, Neftali; Vazquez, Manuel; Gonzalez-Posadas, Vicente

2016-02-26

This work analyzes the long-term functionality of HP (High-power) UV-LEDs (Ultraviolet Light Emitting Diodes) as the exciting light source in non-contact, continuous 24/7 real-time fluoro-sensing pollutant identification in inland water. Fluorescence is an effective alternative in the detection and identification of hydrocarbons. The HP UV-LEDs are more advantageous than classical light sources (xenon and mercury lamps) and helps in the development of a low cost, non-contact, and compact system for continuous real-time fieldwork. This work analyzes the wavelength, output optical power, and the effects of viscosity, temperature of the water pollutants, and the functional consistency for long-term HP UV-LED working operation. To accomplish the latter, an analysis of the influence of two types 365 nm HP UV-LEDs degradation under two continuous real-system working mode conditions was done, by temperature Accelerated Life Tests (ALTs). These tests estimate the mean life under continuous working conditions of 6200 h and for cycled working conditions (30 s ON & 30 s OFF) of 66,000 h, over 7 years of 24/7 operating life of hydrocarbon pollution monitoring. In addition, the durability in the face of the internal and external parameter system variations is evaluated.

Sociotechnical systems as a framework for regulatory system design and evaluation: Using Work Domain Analysis to examine a new regulatory system.

PubMed

Carden, Tony; Goode, Natassia; Read, Gemma J M; Salmon, Paul M

2017-03-15

Like most work systems, the domain of adventure activities has seen a series of serious incidents and subsequent calls to improve regulation. Safety regulation systems aim to promote safety and reduce accidents. However, there is scant evidence they have led to improved safety outcomes. In fact there is some evidence that the poor integration of regulatory system components has led to adverse safety outcomes in some contexts. Despite this, there is an absence of methods for evaluating regulatory and compliance systems. This article argues that sociotechnical systems theory and methods provide a suitable framework for evaluating regulatory systems. This is demonstrated through an analysis of a recently introduced set of adventure activity regulations. Work Domain Analysis (WDA) was used to describe the regulatory system in terms of its functional purposes, values and priority measures, purpose-related functions, object-related processes and cognitive objects. This allowed judgement to be made on the nature of the new regulatory system and on the constraints that may impact its efficacy following implementation. Importantly, the analysis suggests that the new system's functional purpose of ensuring safe activities is not fully supported in terms of the functions and objects available to fulfil them. Potential improvements to the design of the system are discussed along with the implications for regulatory system design and evaluation across the safety critical domains generally. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The cost of misremembering: Inferring the loss function in visual working memory.

PubMed

Sims, Chris R

2015-03-04

Visual working memory (VWM) is a highly limited storage system. A basic consequence of this fact is that visual memories cannot perfectly encode or represent the veridical structure of the world. However, in natural tasks, some memory errors might be more costly than others. This raises the intriguing possibility that the nature of memory error reflects the costs of committing different kinds of errors. Many existing theories assume that visual memories are noise-corrupted versions of afferent perceptual signals. However, this additive noise assumption oversimplifies the problem. Implicit in the behavioral phenomena of visual working memory is the concept of a loss function: a mathematical entity that describes the relative cost to the organism of making different types of memory errors. An optimally efficient memory system is one that minimizes the expected loss according to a particular loss function, while subject to a constraint on memory capacity. This paper describes a novel theoretical framework for characterizing visual working memory in terms of its implicit loss function. Using inverse decision theory, the empirical loss function is estimated from the results of a standard delayed recall visual memory experiment. These results are compared to the predicted behavior of a visual working memory system that is optimally efficient for a previously identified natural task, gaze correction following saccadic error. Finally, the approach is compared to alternative models of visual working memory, and shown to offer a superior account of the empirical data across a range of experimental datasets. © 2015 ARVO.

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Working Memory and Executive Dysfunction in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Antiphospholipid Antibody-Positive Patients.

PubMed

Kozora, E; Uluğ, A M; Erkan, D; Vo, A; Filley, C M; Ramon, G; Burleson, A; Zimmerman, R; Lockshin, M D

2016-11-01

Standardized cognitive tests and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients demonstrate deficits in working memory and executive function. These neurobehavioral abnormalities are not well studied in antiphospholipid syndrome, which may occur independently of or together with SLE. This study compares an fMRI paradigm involving motor skills, working memory, and executive function in SLE patients without antiphospholipid antibody (aPL) (the SLE group), aPL-positive non-SLE patients (the aPL-positive group), and controls. Brain MRI, fMRI, and standardized cognitive assessment results were obtained from 20 SLE, 20 aPL-positive, and 10 healthy female subjects with no history of neuropsychiatric abnormality. Analysis of fMRI data showed no differences in performance across groups on bilateral motor tasks. When analysis of variance was used, significant group differences were found in 2 executive function tasks (word generation and word rhyming) and in a working memory task (N-Back). Patients positive for aPL demonstrated higher activation in bilateral frontal, temporal, and parietal cortices compared to controls during working memory and executive function tasks. SLE patients also demonstrated bilateral frontal and temporal activation during working memory and executive function tasks. Compared to controls, both aPL-positive and SLE patients had elevated cortical activation, primarily in the frontal lobes, during tasks involving working memory and executive function. These findings are consistent with cortical overactivation as a compensatory mechanism for early white matter neuropathology in these disorders. © 2016, American College of Rheumatology.

Functional Requirements for an Electronic Work Package System

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

Oxstrand, Johanna H.

This document provides a set of high level functional requirements for a generic electronic work package (eWP) system. The requirements have been identified by the U.S. nuclear industry as a part of the Nuclear Electronic Work Packages - Enterprise Requirements (NEWPER) initiative. The functional requirements are mainly applied to eWP system supporting Basic and Moderate types of smart documents, i.e., documents that have fields for recording input such as text, dates, numbers, and equipment status, and documents which incorporate additional functionalities such as form field data “type“ validation (e.g. date, text, number, and signature) of data entered and/or self-populate basicmore » document information (usually from existing host application meta data) on the form when the user first opens it. All the requirements are categorized by the roles; Planner, Supervisor, Craft, Work Package Approval Reviewer, Operations, Scheduling/Work Control, and Supporting Functions. The categories Statistics, Records, Information Technology are also included used to group the requirements. All requirements are presented in Section 2 through Section 11. Examples of more detailed requirements are provided for the majority of high level requirements. These examples are meant as an inspiration to be used as each utility goes through the process of identifying their specific requirements. The report’s table of contents provides a summary of the high level requirements.« less

Building the Brain's "Air Traffic Control" System: How Early Experiences Shape the Development of Executive Function. Working Paper 11

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, 2011

2011-01-01

Being able to focus, hold, and work with information in mind, filter distractions, and switch gears is like having an air traffic control system at a busy airport to manage the arrivals and departures of dozens of planes on multiple runways. In the brain, this air traffic control mechanism is called executive functioning, a group of skills that…

[Functional state of various physiological systems of the human body during respiration of neon-oxygen mixture at depth up to 400 meters].

PubMed

Poleshuk, I P; Genin, A M; Unku, R D; Mikhnenko, A E; Sementsov, V N; Suvorov, A V

1991-01-01

Hyperbaric neon-oxygen mixture has been studied for the effect of its high density under pressure of 41 ata on basic physiological functions of human organism. Typical changes of the cardiorespiratory system and tissue respiration parameters are revealed. Changes in physical working capacity are shown. Exposure to gaseous medium of high pressure and density is accompanied by the development of some compensatory-adaptive reactions. The possibility to perform mid-hard physical work is attained with overstrain of respiration and circulation function.

Neuro-Cognitive Intervention for Working Memory: Preliminary Results and Future Directions.

PubMed

Bree, Kathleen D; Beljan, Paul

2016-01-01

Definitions of working memory identify it as a function of the executive function system in which an individual maintains two or more pieces of information in mind and uses that information simultaneously for some purpose. In academics, working memory is necessary for a variety of functions, including attending to the information one's teacher presents and then using that information simultaneously for problem solving. Research indicates difficulties with working memory are observed in children with mathematics learning disorder (MLD) and reading disorders (RD). To improve working memory and other executive function difficulties, and as an alternative to medication treatments for attention and executive function disorders, the Motor Cognition(2)® (MC(2)®)program was developed. Preliminary research on this program indicates statistically significant improvements in working memory, mathematics, and nonsense word decoding for reading. Further research on the MC(2)® program and its impact on working memory, as well as other areas of executive functioning, is warranted.

Family Systems Theory in the Workplace.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rogers, Vivian

This paper presents a summary of Murray Brown's family systems theory as it applies to the workplace, lists some indicators of when a system is working well, and cites some other guidelines for gauging and improving one's own functioning in the work system. Major concepts of Bowen's theory include: (1) the family and the workplace are systems; (2)…

Cross sectional study on lung function of coke oven workers: a lung function surveillance system from 1978 to 1990

PubMed Central

Wu, J; Kreis, I; Griffiths, D; Darling, C

2002-01-01

Aims: To determine the association between lung function of coke oven workers and exposure to coke oven emissions. Methods: Lung function data and detailed work histories for workers in recovery coke ovens of a steelworks were extracted from a lung function surveillance system. Multiple regressions were employed to determine significant predictors for lung function indices. The first sets of lung function tests for 613 new starters were pooled to assess the selection bias. The last sets of lung function tests for 834 subjects with one or more year of coke oven history were pooled to assess determinants of lung function. Results: Selection bias associated with the recruitment process was not observed among the exposure groups. For subjects with a history of one or more years of coke oven work, each year of working in the most exposed "operation" position was associated with reductions in FEV1 of around 9 ml (p = 0.006, 95% CI: 3 ml to 16 ml) and in FVC of around 12 ml (p = 0.002, 95% CI: 4 ml to 19 ml). Negative effects of smoking on lung function were also observed. Conclusions: Exposure to coke oven emissions was found to be associated with lower FEV1 and FVC. Effects of work exposure on lung function are similar to those found in other studies. PMID:12468747

A Brain System for Auditory Working Memory.

PubMed

Kumar, Sukhbinder; Joseph, Sabine; Gander, Phillip E; Barascud, Nicolas; Halpern, Andrea R; Griffiths, Timothy D

2016-04-20

The brain basis for auditory working memory, the process of actively maintaining sounds in memory over short periods of time, is controversial. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging in human participants, we demonstrate that the maintenance of single tones in memory is associated with activation in auditory cortex. In addition, sustained activation was observed in hippocampus and inferior frontal gyrus. Multivoxel pattern analysis showed that patterns of activity in auditory cortex and left inferior frontal gyrus distinguished the tone that was maintained in memory. Functional connectivity during maintenance was demonstrated between auditory cortex and both the hippocampus and inferior frontal cortex. The data support a system for auditory working memory based on the maintenance of sound-specific representations in auditory cortex by projections from higher-order areas, including the hippocampus and frontal cortex. In this work, we demonstrate a system for maintaining sound in working memory based on activity in auditory cortex, hippocampus, and frontal cortex, and functional connectivity among them. Specifically, our work makes three advances from the previous work. First, we robustly demonstrate hippocampal involvement in all phases of auditory working memory (encoding, maintenance, and retrieval): the role of hippocampus in working memory is controversial. Second, using a pattern classification technique, we show that activity in the auditory cortex and inferior frontal gyrus is specific to the maintained tones in working memory. Third, we show long-range connectivity of auditory cortex to hippocampus and frontal cortex, which may be responsible for keeping such representations active during working memory maintenance. Copyright © 2016 Kumar et al.

Total Quality Management: Will It Work in the System Program Office?

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-05-01

Quality Management (TQM) is a relatively new philosophy of management which has high-level Department of Defense support and is presently being implemented in the Air Force. In the Air Force Systems Command, weapon system development and acquisition are carried out in System Program Offices (SPOs), staffed with various functionally oriented specialists supplied to the System Program Director by functional ’home offices’ via a matrix management scheme. Can TQM, relying as it does on cross-functional cooperation and on processes which cross functional lines, be

Toward a multiscale modeling framework for understanding serotonergic function

PubMed Central

Wong-Lin, KongFatt; Wang, Da-Hui; Moustafa, Ahmed A; Cohen, Jeremiah Y; Nakamura, Kae

2017-01-01

Despite its importance in regulating emotion and mental wellbeing, the complex structure and function of the serotonergic system present formidable challenges toward understanding its mechanisms. In this paper, we review studies investigating the interactions between serotonergic and related brain systems and their behavior at multiple scales, with a focus on biologically-based computational modeling. We first discuss serotonergic intracellular signaling and neuronal excitability, followed by neuronal circuit and systems levels. At each level of organization, we will discuss the experimental work accompanied by related computational modeling work. We then suggest that a multiscale modeling approach that integrates the various levels of neurobiological organization could potentially transform the way we understand the complex functions associated with serotonin. PMID:28417684

Burbank works with the PPFS MBS in the U.S. Laboratory

NASA Image and Video Library

2012-02-02

ISS030-E-060136 (2 Feb. 2012) --- NASA astronaut Dan Burbank, Expedition 30 commander, works with the Portable Pulmonary Function System (PPFS) Mixing Bag System (MBS) in the Destiny laboratory of the International Space Station.

Work function measurements during plasma exposition at conditions relevant in negative ion sources for the ITER neutral beam injection.

PubMed

Gutser, R; Wimmer, C; Fantz, U

2011-02-01

Cesium seeded sources for surface generated negative hydrogen ions are major components of neutral beam injection systems in future large-scale fusion experiments such as ITER. The stability and delivered current density depend highly on the work function during vacuum and plasma phases of the ion source. One of the most important quantities that affect the source performance is the work function. A modified photocurrent method was developed to measure the temporal behavior of the work function during and after cesium evaporation. The investigation of cesium exposed Mo and MoLa samples under ITER negative hydrogen ion based neutral beam injection relevant surface and plasma conditions showed the influence of impurities which result in a fast degradation when the plasma exposure or the cesium flux onto the sample is stopped. A minimum work function close to that of bulk cesium was obtained under the influence of the plasma exposition, while a significantly higher work function was observed under ITER-like vacuum conditions.

Functional requirements of computer systems for the U.S. Geological Survey, Water Resources Division, 1988-97

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hathaway, R.M.; McNellis, J.M.

1989-01-01

Investigating the occurrence, quantity, quality, distribution, and movement of the Nation 's water resources is the principal mission of the U.S. Geological Survey 's Water Resources Division. Reports of these investigations are published and available to the public. To accomplish this mission, the Division requires substantial computer technology to process, store, and analyze data from more than 57,000 hydrologic sites. The Division 's computer resources are organized through the Distributed Information System Program Office that manages the nationwide network of computers. The contract that provides the major computer components for the Water Resources Division 's Distributed information System expires in 1991. Five work groups were organized to collect the information needed to procure a new generation of computer systems for the U. S. Geological Survey, Water Resources Division. Each group was assigned a major Division activity and asked to describe its functional requirements of computer systems for the next decade. The work groups and major activities are: (1) hydrologic information; (2) hydrologic applications; (3) geographic information systems; (4) reports and electronic publishing; and (5) administrative. The work groups identified 42 functions and described their functional requirements for 1988, 1992, and 1997. A few new functions such as Decision Support Systems and Executive Information Systems, were identified, but most are the same as performed today. Although the number of functions will remain about the same, steady growth in the size, complexity, and frequency of many functions is predicted for the next decade. No compensating increase in the Division 's staff is anticipated during this period. To handle the increased workload and perform these functions, new approaches will be developed that use advanced computer technology. The advanced technology is required in a unified, tightly coupled system that will support all functions simultaneously. The new approaches and expanded use of computers will require substantial increases in the quantity and sophistication of the Division 's computer resources. The requirements presented in this report will be used to develop technical specifications that describe the computer resources needed during the 1990's. (USGS)

Exploration Medical System Technical Development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McGuire, K.; Middour, C.; Cerro, J.; Burba, T.; Hanson, A.; Reilly, J.; Mindock, J.

2017-01-01

The Exploration Medical Capability (ExMC) Element systems engineering goals include defining the technical system needed to implement exploration medical capabilities for Mars. This past year, scenarios captured in the medical system concept of operations laid the foundation for systems engineering technical development work. The systems engineering team analyzed scenario content to identify interactions between the medical system, crewmembers, the exploration vehicle, and the ground system. This enabled the definition of functions the medical system must provide and interfaces to crewmembers and other systems. These analyses additionally lead to the development of a conceptual medical system architecture. The work supports the ExMC community-wide understanding of the functional exploration needs to be met by the medical system, the subsequent development of medical system requirements, and the system verification and validation approach utilizing terrestrial analogs and precursor exploration missions.

Aircraft Flight Modeling During the Optimization of Gas Turbine Engine Working Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tkachenko, A. Yu; Kuz'michev, V. S.; Krupenich, I. N.

2018-01-01

The article describes a method for simulating the flight of the aircraft along a predetermined path, establishing a functional connection between the parameters of the working process of gas turbine engine and the efficiency criteria of the aircraft. This connection is necessary for solving the optimization tasks of the conceptual design stage of the engine according to the systems approach. Engine thrust level, in turn, influences the operation of aircraft, thus making accurate simulation of the aircraft behavior during flight necessary for obtaining the correct solution. The described mathematical model of aircraft flight provides the functional connection between the airframe characteristics, working process of gas turbine engines (propulsion system), ambient and flight conditions and flight profile features. This model provides accurate results of flight simulation and the resulting aircraft efficiency criteria, required for optimization of working process and control function of a gas turbine engine.

Dynamic reconfiguration of frontal brain networks during executive cognition in humans

PubMed Central

Braun, Urs; Schäfer, Axel; Walter, Henrik; Erk, Susanne; Romanczuk-Seiferth, Nina; Haddad, Leila; Schweiger, Janina I.; Grimm, Oliver; Heinz, Andreas; Tost, Heike; Meyer-Lindenberg, Andreas; Bassett, Danielle S.

2015-01-01

The brain is an inherently dynamic system, and executive cognition requires dynamically reconfiguring, highly evolving networks of brain regions that interact in complex and transient communication patterns. However, a precise characterization of these reconfiguration processes during cognitive function in humans remains elusive. Here, we use a series of techniques developed in the field of “dynamic network neuroscience” to investigate the dynamics of functional brain networks in 344 healthy subjects during a working-memory challenge (the “n-back” task). In contrast to a control condition, in which dynamic changes in cortical networks were spread evenly across systems, the effortful working-memory condition was characterized by a reconfiguration of frontoparietal and frontotemporal networks. This reconfiguration, which characterizes “network flexibility,” employs transient and heterogeneous connectivity between frontal systems, which we refer to as “integration.” Frontal integration predicted neuropsychological measures requiring working memory and executive cognition, suggesting that dynamic network reconfiguration between frontal systems supports those functions. Our results characterize dynamic reconfiguration of large-scale distributed neural circuits during executive cognition in humans and have implications for understanding impaired cognitive function in disorders affecting connectivity, such as schizophrenia or dementia. PMID:26324898

Introduction of the UNIX International Performance Management Work Group

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Newman, Henry

1993-01-01

In this paper we presented the planned direction of the UNIX International Performance Management Work Group. This group consists of concerned system developers and users who have organized to synthesize recommendations for standard UNIX performance management subsystem interfaces and architectures. The purpose of these recommendations is to provide a core set of performance management functions and these functions can be used to build tools by hardware system developers, vertical application software developers, and performance application software developers.

The Effects of Concurrent Verbal and Visual Tasks on Category Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miles, Sarah J.; Minda, John Paul

2011-01-01

Current theories of category learning posit separate verbal and nonverbal learning systems. Past research suggests that the verbal system relies on verbal working memory and executive functioning and learns rule-defined categories; the nonverbal system does not rely on verbal working memory and learns non-rule-defined categories (E. M. Waldron…

Medical Training Skills Curriculum for Case Management Assistants.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Family Planning Council of Southeastern Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.

This manual helps service care providers working with HIV-infected people learn how HIV affects the body's major systems, emphasizing the structure and functions of each system and direct and indirect effects of HIV on each system. The curriculum was developed for case management assistants (CMAs) who work in homes of HIV-infected people. Lessons…

Classroom Management, Social Participation Structures and Required Social Competence in Kindergarten.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Verhaeghe, Jean Pierre; Vanobbergen, Bruno

Noting that becoming familiar with the work system of the kindergarten classroom (a functional system with its own rules and procedures for activities and transition) is important for students' development and well-being, this study examined the work systems in two kindergarten classrooms and children's associated context-specific social…

In Search of a Visual-cortical Describing Function: a Summary of Work in Progress

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Junker, A. M.; Peio, K. J.

1984-01-01

The thrust of the present work is to explore the utility of using a sum of sinusoids (seven or more) to obtain an evoked response and, furthermore, to see if the response is sensitive to changes in cognitive processing. Within the field of automatic control system technology, a mathematical input/output relationship for a sinusoidally stimulated nonlinear system is defined as describing function. Applying this technology, sum of sines inputs to yield describing functions for the visual-cortical response have been designed. What follows is a description of the method used to obtain visual-cortical describing functions. A number of measurement system redesigns were necessary to achieve the desired frequency resolution. Results that guided and came out of the redesigns are presented. Preliminary results of stimulus parameter effects (average intensity and depth of modulation) are also shown.

Constructing a working taxonomy of functional Ada software components for real-time embedded system applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wallace, Robert

1986-01-01

A major impediment to a systematic attack on Ada software reusability is the lack of an effective taxonomy for software component functions. The scope of all possible applications of Ada software is considered too great to allow the practical development of a working taxonomy. Instead, for the purposes herein, the scope of Ada software application is limited to device and subsystem control in real-time embedded systems. A functional approach is taken in constructing the taxonomy tree for identified Ada domain. The use of modular software functions as a starting point fits well with the object oriented programming philosophy of Ada. Examples of the types of functions represented within the working taxonomy are real time kernels, interrupt service routines, synchronization and message passing, data conversion, digital filtering and signal conditioning, and device control. The constructed taxonomy is proposed as a framework from which a need analysis can be performed to reveal voids in current Ada real-time embedded programming efforts for Space Station.

Preliminary Work Domain Analysis for Human Extravehicular Activity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McGuire, Kerry; Miller, Matthew; Feigh, Karen

2015-01-01

A work domain analysis (WDA) of human extravehicular activity (EVA) is presented in this study. A formative methodology such as Cognitive Work Analysis (CWA) offers a new perspective to the knowledge gained from the past 50 years of living and working in space for the development of future EVA support systems. EVA is a vital component of human spaceflight and provides a case study example of applying a work domain analysis (WDA) to a complex sociotechnical system. The WDA presented here illustrates how the physical characteristics of the environment, hardware, and life support systems of the domain guide the potential avenues and functional needs of future EVA decision support system development.

Significance of a Recurring Function in Energy Transfer

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mishra, Subodha

2017-01-01

The appearance of a unique function in the energy transfer from one system to the other in different physical situations such as electrical, mechanical, optical, and quantum mechanical processes is established in this work. Though the laws governing the energy transformation and its transfer from system to system are well known, here we notice a…

Work function and surface stability of tungsten-based thermionic electron emission cathodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacobs, Ryan; Morgan, Dane; Booske, John

2017-11-01

Materials that exhibit a low work function and therefore easily emit electrons into vacuum form the basis of electronic devices used in applications ranging from satellite communications to thermionic energy conversion. W-Ba-O is the canonical materials system that functions as the thermionic electron emitter commercially used in a range of high-power electron devices. However, the work functions, surface stability, and kinetic characteristics of a polycrystalline W emitter surface are still not well understood or characterized. In this study, we examined the work function and surface stability of the eight lowest index surfaces of the W-Ba-O system using density functional theory methods. We found that under the typical thermionic cathode operating conditions of high temperature and low oxygen partial pressure, the most stable surface adsorbates are Ba-O species with compositions in the range of Ba0.125O-Ba0.25O per surface W atom, with O passivating all dangling W bonds and Ba creating work function-lowering surface dipoles. Wulff construction analysis reveals that the presence of O and Ba significantly alters the surface energetics and changes the proportions of surface facets present under equilibrium conditions. Analysis of previously published data on W sintering kinetics suggests that fine W particles in the size range of 100-500 nm may be at or near equilibrium during cathode synthesis and thus may exhibit surface orientation fractions well described by the calculated Wulff construction.

Note: Work function change measurement via improved Anderson method

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

Sabik, A., E-mail: sabik@ifd.uni.wroc.pl; Gołek, F.; Antczak, G.

We propose the modification to the Anderson method of work function change (Δϕ) measurements. In this technique, the kinetic energy of the probing electrons is already low enough for non-destructive investigation of delicate molecular systems. However, in our implementation, all electrodes including filament of the electron gun are polarized positively. As a consequence, electron bombardment of any elements of experimental system is eliminated. Our modification improves cleanliness of the ultra-high vacuum system. As an illustration of the solution capabilities, we present Δϕ of the Ag(100) surface induced by cobalt phthalocyanine layers.

Study of Cs/NF3 adsorption on GaN (0 0 1) surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Diao, Yu; Liu, Lei; Xia, Sihao; Kong, Yike

2017-03-01

To investigate the optoelectronics properties of Cs/NF3 adsorption on GaN (0 0 1) photocathode surface, different adsorption models of Cs-only, Cs/O, Cs/NF3 adsorption on GaN clean surface were established, respectively. Atomic structures, work function, adsorption energy, E-Mulliken charge distribution, density of states and optical properties of all these adsorption systems were calculated using first principles. Compared with Cs/O co-adsorption, Cs/NF3 co-adsorption show better stability and more decline of work function, which is more beneficial for photoemission efficiency. Besides, surface band structures of Cs/NF3 co-adsorption system exhibit metal properties, implying good conductivity. Meanwhile, near valence band minimum of Cs/NF3 co-adsorption system, more acceptor levels emerges to form a p-type emission surface, which is conductive to the escape of photoelectrons. In addition, imaginary part of dielectric function curve and absorption curve of Cs/NF3 co-adsorption system both move towards lower energy side. This work can direct the optimization of activation process of NEA GaN photocathode.

Functions & Requirements for Debris Removal System Project A-2

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

PRECECHTEL, D.R.

1999-12-29

This revision of the Functions and Requirements Document updates the approved Functions and Requirements for Debris Removal Subproject WHC-SD-SNF-FRD-009, Rev. 0. It has been revised in its entirety to reflect the current scope of work for Debris Removal as canisters and lids under the K Basin Projects work breakdown structure (WBS). In this revision the canisters and lids will be consider debris and a new set of Functions and Requirements have been developed to remove the canisters and lids from the basin.

INTERPRETING PHYSICAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SCORES FROM NEW WORK DISABILITY INSTRUMENTS

PubMed Central

Marfeo, Elizabeth E.; Ni, Pengsheng; Chan, Leighton; Rasch, Elizabeth K.; McDonough, Christine M.; Brandt, Diane E.; Bogusz, Kara; Jette, Alan M.

2015-01-01

Objective To develop a system to guide interpretation of scores generated from 2 new instruments measuring work-related physical and behavioral health functioning (Work Disability – Physical Function (WD-PF) and WD – Behavioral Function (WD-BH)). Design Cross-sectional, secondary data from 3 independent samples to develop and validate the functional levels for physical and behavioral health functioning. Subjects Physical group: 999 general adult subjects, 1,017 disability applicants and 497 work-disabled subjects. Behavioral health group: 1,000 general adult subjects, 1,015 disability applicants and 476 work-disabled subjects. Methods Three-phase analytic approach including item mapping, a modified-Delphi technique, and known-groups validation analysis were used to develop and validate cut-points for functional levels within each of the WD-PF and WD-BH instrument’s scales. Results Four and 5 functional levels were developed for each of the scales in the WD-PF and WD-BH instruments. Distribution of the comparative samples was in the expected direction: the general adult samples consistently demonstrated scores at higher functional levels compared with the claimant and work-disabled samples. Conclusion Using an item-response theory-based methodology paired with a qualitative process appears to be a feasible and valid approach for translating the WD-BH and WD-PF scores into meaningful levels useful for interpreting a person’s work-related physical and behavioral health functioning. PMID:25729901

START: an advanced radiation therapy information system.

PubMed

Cocco, A; Valentini, V; Balducci, M; Mantello, G

1996-01-01

START is an advanced radiation therapy information system (RTIS) which connects direct information technology present in the devices with indirect information technology for clinical, administrative, information management integrated with the hospital information system (HIS). The following objectives are pursued: to support decision making in treatment planning and functional and information integration with the rest of the hospital; to enhance organizational efficiency of a Radiation Therapy Department; to facilitate the statistical evaluation of clinical data and managerial performance assessment; to ensure the safety and confidentiality of used data. For its development a working method based on the involvement of all operators of the Radiation Therapy Department, was applied. Its introduction in the work activity was gradual, trying to reuse and integrate the existing information applications. The START information flow identifies four major phases: admission, visit of admission, planning, therapy. The system main functionalities available to the radiotherapist are: clinical history/medical report linking function; folder function; planning function; tracking function; electronic mail and banner function; statistical function; management function. Functions available to the radiotherapy technician are: the room daily list function; management function: to the nurse the following functions are available: patient directing function; management function. START is a departmental client (pc-windows)-server (unix) developed on an integrated database of all information of interest (clinical, organizational and administrative) coherent with the standard and with a modular architecture which can evolve with additional functionalities in subsequent times. For a more thorough evaluation of its impact on the daily activity of a radiation therapy facility, a prolonged clinical validation is in progress.

Communication, Work Systems and HRD

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pace, R. Wayne

2013-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to show the foundational place that communication theory and its practice occupies in functioning work systems. Design/methodology/approach: This paper defines the word communication in terms of the creation and interpretation of displays, describes what it means to have a theoretical foundation for a…

Experiences on developing digital down conversion algorithms using Xilinx system generator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Chengfa; Yuan, Yuan; Zhao, Lizhi

2013-07-01

The Digital Down Conversion (DDC) algorithm is a classical signal processing method which is widely used in radar and communication systems. In this paper, the DDC function is implemented by Xilinx System Generator tool on FPGA. System Generator is an FPGA design tool provided by Xilinx Inc and MathWorks Inc. It is very convenient for programmers to manipulate the design and debug the function, especially for the complex algorithm. Through the developing process of DDC function based on System Generator, the results show that System Generator is a very fast and efficient tool for FPGA design.

Orienting the Work-Based Curriculum Towards Work Process Knowledge: A Rationale and a German Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boreham, Nick

2004-01-01

The term 'work process knowledge' refers to the knowledge needed for working in flexible and innovative business environments, including those in which information and communication technologies have been introduced to integrate previously separated production functions. It involves a systems-level understanding of the work process in the…

L-Band Digital Aeronautical Communications System Engineering - Concepts of Use, Systems Performance, Requirements, and Architectures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zelkin, Natalie; Henriksen, Stephen

2010-01-01

This NASA Contractor Report summarizes and documents the work performed to develop concepts of use (ConUse) and high-level system requirements and architecture for the proposed L-band (960 to 1164 MHz) terrestrial en route communications system. This work was completed as a follow-on to the technology assessment conducted by NASA Glenn Research Center and ITT for the Future Communications Study (FCS). ITT assessed air-to-ground (A/G) communications concepts of use and operations presented in relevant NAS-level, international, and NAS-system-level documents to derive the appropriate ConUse relevant to potential A/G communications applications and services for domestic continental airspace. ITT also leveraged prior concepts of use developed during the earlier phases of the FCS. A middle-out functional architecture was adopted by merging the functional system requirements identified in the bottom-up assessment of existing requirements with those derived as a result of the top-down analysis of ConUse and higher level functional requirements. Initial end-to-end system performance requirements were derived to define system capabilities based on the functional requirements and on NAS-SR-1000 and the Operational Performance Assessment conducted as part of the COCR. A high-level notional architecture of the L-DACS supporting A/G communication was derived from the functional architecture and requirements.

Proceedings and findings of the 1976 Workshop on Ride Quality. [passenger acceptance of transportation systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kuhlthau, A. R. (Editor)

1976-01-01

The workshop was organized around the study of the three basic transfer functions required to evaluate and/or predict passenger acceptance of transportation systems: These are the vehicle, passenger, and value transfer functions. For the purpose of establishing working groups corresponding to the basic transfer functions, it was decided to split the vehicle transfer function into two distinct groups studying surface vehicles and air/marine vehicles, respectively.

The Effect of Non-Visual Working Memory Load on Top-Down Modulation of Visual Processing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rissman, Jesse; Gazzaley, Adam; D'Esposito, Mark

2009-01-01

While a core function of the working memory (WM) system is the active maintenance of behaviorally relevant sensory representations, it is also critical that distracting stimuli are appropriately ignored. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine the role of domain-general WM resources in the top-down attentional modulation of…

Design and Development of Countylevel Information Management System for Diseases and Pests of Hebei Province on GIS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Xiaoyan; Zhang, Xiaoli; Xie, Fangyi

To get a more convenience work in forest application, GIS and information system is used in forestry. GIS technology is used to build an informational management system of forest disease. For the practical requirement, the system is implemented by PDA which works outside to help completing the data collection. The major function of the system is input and output of the forest disease data and processing the report which is based on the criteria report and the assistant function of GIS. This article is aim to discuss about the theory, the process and the critical points of the information system. Besides the general information management system, GIS and PDA is introduced into the diseases system, which could combine the map and the attribute information and realize inventory data reform by PDA. The system is developed with VB and SuperMap Object (SuperMap Company).

Increased working memory related fMRI signal in children following Tick Borne Encephalitis.

PubMed

Henrik, Ullman; Åsa, Fowler; Ronny, Wickström

2016-01-01

Tick Borne Encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection in the central nervous system endemic in Europe and Asia. While pediatric infection may carry a lower risk for serious neurological sequelae compared to adults, a large proportion of children experience long term cognitive problems, most markedly decreased working memory capacity. We explored whether task related functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) could reveal a biological correlate of status-post TBE in children. We examined 11 serologically verified pediatric TBE patients with central nervous system involvement with 55 healthy controls with working memory tests and MRI. The TBE patients showed a prominent deficit in working memory capacity and an increased task related functional MRI signal in working memory related cortical areas during a spatial working memory task performed without sedation. No diffusion differences could be found with DTI, in line with the reported paucity of anatomical abnormalities. This study is the first to demonstrate functional MRI abnormalities in TBE patients that bears similarity to other patient groups with diffuse neuronal damage. Copyright © 2015 European Paediatric Neurology Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ab initio study of the effects of thin CsI coatings on the work function of graphite cathodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vlahos, Vasilios; Booske, John H.; Morgan, Dane

2007-10-01

Cesium-iodide (CsI)-coated graphite cathodes are promising electron sources for high power microwave generators, but the mechanism driving the improved emission is not well understood. Therefore, an ab initio modeling investigation on the effects of thin CsI coatings on graphite has been carried out. It is demonstrated that the CsI coatings reduce the work function of the system significantly through a mechanism of induced dipoles. The results suggest that work function modification is a major contribution to the improved emission seen when CsI coatings are applied to C.

Immune System (For Parents)

MedlinePlus

... functions: B lymphocytes are like the body's military intelligence system, seeking out their targets and sending defenses ... like the soldiers, destroying the invaders that the intelligence system has identified. Here's how it works: When ...

[PSYCHO PHYSIOLOGICAL MARKERS OF ACCELERATED AGING AMONG THOSE WORKING WITH OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS].

PubMed

Bashkireva, A S; Kachan, Ye Yu; Kulapina, M E

2015-01-01

We assessed the significance of psycho physiological markers of accelerated aging of the function of attention using comparative analysis of two occupational groups in order to reveal how the working process affects mental work capacity. We revealed peculiarities of systemic structure of functions which determine mental work capacity depending on the age and length of service in lorry drivers. It was proved that decrease in the mnestic functions of lorry-drivers takes place 10-15 years earlier compared to the control group. Psycho physiological indices, reflecting the functioning of attention, decreased not only with aging but also with longer driving experience. Our results show that it is necessary to conduct further studies of psycho physiological markers of age-related decrease in short-term memory depending on the activities at work in order to prevent accelerated aging and achieve professional longevity.

`Sex' – It's not only Women's Work: A Case for Refocusing on the Functional Role that Sex Plays in Work for both Women and Men

PubMed Central

Uretsky, Elanah

2014-01-01

Mention of the term sex work often invokes images of marginalized women at risk for HIV infection. Such images, however, are counterintuitive to the functional role intended by the movement that spawned use of the terms `sex work' and `sex worker'. This article looks at the sexual practices of men in urban China to argue for a return to a functional definition of `sex work', which was originally meant to legitimize the role sex plays in work. The progenitors of this movement intended to use `sex work' as a means to legitimize sex as an income generating activity for women involved in prostitution. I show that sex can also serve a functional role in the work-related duties of men seeking economic and political success in contemporary urban China. Men in China utilize sex as one way for demonstrating the loyalty necessary to access state-owned and controlled resources in a market economy governed under a Leninist system. Overall the article demonstrates that reclaiming perception of sex work as a functional rather than behavioral category can expand its use for preventing HIV among the broad subset of people who engage in sex as part of their work. PMID:25642103

`Sex' - It's not only Women's Work: A Case for Refocusing on the Functional Role that Sex Plays in Work for both Women and Men.

PubMed

Uretsky, Elanah

2015-01-01

Mention of the term sex work often invokes images of marginalized women at risk for HIV infection. Such images, however, are counterintuitive to the functional role intended by the movement that spawned use of the terms `sex work' and `sex worker'. This article looks at the sexual practices of men in urban China to argue for a return to a functional definition of `sex work', which was originally meant to legitimize the role sex plays in work. The progenitors of this movement intended to use `sex work' as a means to legitimize sex as an income generating activity for women involved in prostitution. I show that sex can also serve a functional role in the work-related duties of men seeking economic and political success in contemporary urban China. Men in China utilize sex as one way for demonstrating the loyalty necessary to access state-owned and controlled resources in a market economy governed under a Leninist system. Overall the article demonstrates that reclaiming perception of sex work as a functional rather than behavioral category can expand its use for preventing HIV among the broad subset of people who engage in sex as part of their work.

Potential energy distribution function and its application to the problem of evaporation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gerasimov, D. N.; Yurin, E. I.

2017-10-01

Distribution function on potential energy in a strong correlated system can be calculated analytically. In an equilibrium system (for instance, in the bulk of the liquid) this distribution function depends only on temperature and mean potential energy, which can be found through the specific heat of vaporization. At the surface of the liquid this distribution function differs significantly, but its shape still satisfies analytical correlation. Distribution function on potential energy nearby the evaporation surface can be used instead of the work function of the atom of the liquid.

THROUGH-THE EARTH (TTE) SYSTEM AND THE IN-MINE POWER LINE (IMPL) SYSTEM

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

Zvi H. Meiksin

Work has progressed on both subsystems: the through-the-earth (TTE) system and the In-Mine Power Line (IMPL) system. After the Lab prototype of the IMPL system was perfected to function satisfactorily, the thrust of the work focused on building a first production prototype that can be installed and tested inside a mine. To obtain multi-channel voice communication through the TTE system, effort has proceeded to compress voice messages and make the format compatible with the power-line interface protocol.

Smart Home and Building Systems | Energy Systems Integration Facility |

Science.gov Websites

Exploring how intelligent building systems and the dynamic grid of the future can work together evaluate them as a neighborhood Exploring functionality, applications, interoperability, and cybersecurity

Spot the difference: Operational event sequence diagrams as a formal method for work allocation in the development of single-pilot operations for commercial aircraft.

PubMed

Harris, Don; Stanton, Neville A; Starr, Alison

2015-01-01

Function Allocation methods are important for the appropriate allocation of tasks between humans and automated systems. It is proposed that Operational Event Sequence Diagrams (OESDs) provide a simple yet rigorous basis upon which allocation of work can be assessed. This is illustrated with respect to a design concept for a passenger aircraft flown by just a single pilot where the objective is to replace or supplement functions normally undertaken by the second pilot with advanced automation. A scenario-based analysis (take off) was used in which there would normally be considerable demands and interactions with the second pilot. The OESD analyses indicate those tasks that would be suitable for allocation to automated assistance on the flight deck and those tasks that are now redundant in this new configuration (something that other formal Function Allocation approaches cannot identify). Furthermore, OESDs are demonstrated to be an easy to apply and flexible approach to the allocation of function in prospective systems. OESDs provide a simple yet rigorous basis upon which allocation of work can be assessed. The technique can deal with the flexible, dynamic allocation of work and the deletion of functions no longer required. This is illustrated using a novel design concept for a single-crew commercial aircraft.

Spacelab output processing system architectural study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1977-01-01

Two different system architectures are presented. The two architectures are derived from two different data flows within the Spacelab Output Processing System. The major differences between these system architectures are in the position of the decommutation function (the first architecture performs decommutation in the latter half of the system and the second architecture performs that function in the front end of the system). In order to be examined, the system was divided into five stand-alone subsystems; Work Assembler, Mass Storage System, Output Processor, Peripheral Pool, and Resource Monitor. The work load of each subsystem was estimated independent of the specific devices to be used. The candidate devices were surveyed from a wide sampling of off-the-shelf devices. Analytical expressions were developed to quantify the projected workload in conjunction with typical devices which would adequately handle the subsystem tasks. All of the study efforts were then directed toward preparing performance and cost curves for each architecture subsystem.

The geography and human cultural resources working group of the EROS program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gerlach, A. C.

1972-01-01

The functions, activities, and objectives of the Geography and Human-Cultural Resources Working Group of the EROS program are outlined. The Group's primary function is to coordinate remote sensing experiments of physical scientists and the needs of socioeconomic and culturally orientated planners, policy makers, administrators, and other user groups. Other functions of the Group include land use analysis, resource mapping, and development of an operational automatic information system receptive to land use and environmental data.

Function key and shortcut key use in airway facilities.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2003-02-01

This document provides information on the function keys and shortcut keys used by systems in the Federal Aviation Administration : Airway Facilities (AF) work environment. It includes a catalog of the function keys and shortcut keys used by each syst...

Nanoparticles functionalized with supramolecular host-guest systems for nanomedicine and healthcare.

PubMed

Wu, Zilong; Song, Nan; Menz, Ryan; Pingali, Bharadwaj; Yang, Ying-Wei; Zheng, Yuebing

2015-05-01

Synthetic macrocyclic host compounds can interact with suitable guest molecules via noncovalent interactions to form functional supramolecular systems. With the synergistic integration of the response of molecules and the unique properties at the nanoscale, nanoparticles functionalized with the host-guest supramolecular systems have shown great potentials for a broad range of applications in the fields of nanoscience and nanotechnology. In this review article, we focus on the applications of the nanoparticles functionalized with supramolecular host-guest systems in nanomedicine and healthcare, including therapeutic delivery, imaging, sensing and removal of harmful substances. A large number of examples are included to elucidate the working mechanisms, advantages, limitations and future developments of the nanoparticle-supramolecule systems in these applications.

OpenSatKit Enables Quick Startup for CubeSat Missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McComas, David; Melton, Ryan

2017-01-01

The software required to develop, integrate, and operate a spacecraft is substantial regardless of whether its a large or small satellite. Even getting started can be a monumental task. To solve this problem, NASAs Core Flight System (cFS), NASA's 42 spacecraft dynamics simulator, and Ball Aerospaces COSMOS ground system have been integrated together into a kit called OpenSatKit that provides a complete and open source software solution for starting a new satellite mission. Users can have a working system with flight software, dynamics simulation, and a ground command and control system up and running within hours.Every satellite mission requires three primary categories of software to function. The first is Flight Software (FSW) which provides the onboard control of the satellites and its payload(s). NASA's cFS provides a great platform for developing this software. Second, while developing a satellite on earth, it is necessary to simulate the satellites orbit, attitude, and actuators, to ensure that the systems that control these aspects will work correctly in the real environment. NASAs 42 simulator provides these functionalities. Finally, the ground has to be able to communicate with the satellite, monitor its performance and health, and display its data. Additionally, test scripts have to be written to verify the system on the ground. Ball Aerospace's COSMOS command and control system provides this functionality. Once the OpenSatKit is up and running, the next step is to customize the platform and get it running on the end target. Starting from a fully working system makes porting the cFS from Linux to a users platform much easier. An example Raspberry Pi target is included in the kit so users can gain experience working with a low cost hardware target. All users can benefit from OpenSatKit but the greatest impact and benefits will be to SmallSat missions with constrained budgets and small software teams. This paper describes OpenSatKits system design, the steps necessary to run the system to target the Raspberry Pi, and future plans. OpenSatKit is a free fully functional spacecraft software system that we hope will greatly benefit the SmallSat community.

Storing and Predicting Dynamic Attributes in a World Model Knowledge Store

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-05-01

14 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION ... INTRODUCTION The world of mobile, intelligent robotics is expanding rapidly. As the shape, size, function and capabilities of these systems change, so...Ground Vehicles Working Group ( JAUGS WG). JAUGS has since transitioned to encompass the realm of all unmanned systems. It is the goal of the working group

New Directions in Library and Information Science Education. Final Report. Volume 2.12: Library System Supplier Professional Competencies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Griffiths, Jose-Marie; And Others

This document contains validated activities and competencies needed by information professionals working in a library system supplier organization. The activities and competencies are organized according to the functions which information professionals working in such organizations perform: research and development; marketing; customer support;…

Central Executive Dysfunction and Deferred Prefrontal Processing in Veterans with Gulf War Illness.

PubMed

Hubbard, Nicholas A; Hutchison, Joanna L; Motes, Michael A; Shokri-Kojori, Ehsan; Bennett, Ilana J; Brigante, Ryan M; Haley, Robert W; Rypma, Bart

2014-05-01

Gulf War Illness is associated with toxic exposure to cholinergic disruptive chemicals. The cholinergic system has been shown to mediate the central executive of working memory (WM). The current work proposes that impairment of the cholinergic system in Gulf War Illness patients (GWIPs) leads to behavioral and neural deficits of the central executive of WM. A large sample of GWIPs and matched controls (MCs) underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging during a varied-load working memory task. Compared to MCs, GWIPs showed a greater decline in performance as WM-demand increased. Functional imaging suggested that GWIPs evinced separate processing strategies, deferring prefrontal cortex activity from encoding to retrieval for high demand conditions. Greater activity during high-demand encoding predicted greater WM performance. Behavioral data suggest that WM executive strategies are impaired in GWIPs. Functional data further support this hypothesis and suggest that GWIPs utilize less effective strategies during high-demand WM.

Central Executive Dysfunction and Deferred Prefrontal Processing in Veterans with Gulf War Illness

PubMed Central

Hubbard, Nicholas A.; Hutchison, Joanna L.; Motes, Michael A.; Shokri-Kojori, Ehsan; Bennett, Ilana J.; Brigante, Ryan M.; Haley, Robert W.; Rypma, Bart

2015-01-01

Gulf War Illness is associated with toxic exposure to cholinergic disruptive chemicals. The cholinergic system has been shown to mediate the central executive of working memory (WM). The current work proposes that impairment of the cholinergic system in Gulf War Illness patients (GWIPs) leads to behavioral and neural deficits of the central executive of WM. A large sample of GWIPs and matched controls (MCs) underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging during a varied-load working memory task. Compared to MCs, GWIPs showed a greater decline in performance as WM-demand increased. Functional imaging suggested that GWIPs evinced separate processing strategies, deferring prefrontal cortex activity from encoding to retrieval for high demand conditions. Greater activity during high-demand encoding predicted greater WM performance. Behavioral data suggest that WM executive strategies are impaired in GWIPs. Functional data further support this hypothesis and suggest that GWIPs utilize less effective strategies during high-demand WM. PMID:25767746

Continued Development of Expert System Tools for NPSS Engine Diagnostics

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewandowski, Henry

1996-01-01

The objectives of this grant were to work with previously developed NPSS (Numerical Propulsion System Simulation) tools and enhance their functionality; explore similar AI systems; and work with the High Performance Computing Communication (HPCC) K-12 program. Activities for this reporting period are briefly summarized and a paper addressing the implementation, monitoring and zooming in a distributed jet engine simulation is included as an attachment.

Reconciling Stable Asymmetry with Recovery of Function: An Adaptive Systems Perspective on Functional Plasticity.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bullock, Daniel; And Others

1987-01-01

This commentary, written in response to Witelson's work (1987), examines alternative ways of determining how the developmentally stable functional asymmetry (hemispheric specialization) observed in neurologically intact children can be reconciled with the dramatic recovery of function often displayed following unilateral brain damage. (PCB)

Enhancing the Interdisciplinary Perspective in the Marketing Management Decision Process through an Applied, Integrated, Client Project

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Askim-Lovseth, Mary K.; O'Keefe, Timothy P.

2012-01-01

Businesses function within a cross-functional, integrative setting, and this necessitates providing a learning environment for students that is comparable to real-life work projects. Two upper-level university classes in marketing and information systems worked collaboratively with a snack food business to design and build a Web site based on a…

The impact of fatigue and energy on work functioning and impairment in patients with major depressive disorder treated with desvenlafaxine.

PubMed

Sarfati, David; Evans, Vanessa C; Tam, Edwin M; Woo, Cindy; Iverson, Grant L; Yatham, Lakshmi N; Lam, Raymond W

2017-11-01

Fatigue and low energy are cardinal symptoms of major depressive disorder (MDD) that have an impact on work functioning. Antidepressants with noradrenergic activity have been hypothesized to improve symptoms of fatigue and low energy. We examined the impact of these symptoms on work functioning in patients with MDD treated with the serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, desvenlafaxine. A secondary analysis was carried out from a study of employed adult outpatients (n=35) with MDD and subjective cognitive complaints treated with desvenlafaxine 50-100 mg/day for 8 weeks. Multiple regression analyses modeled improvement in work functioning measures (Lam Employment Absence and Productivity Scale, Health and Work Performance Questionnaire, Sheehan Disability Scale) with measures of fatigue (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Fatigue scale and 20-item Hopkins Symptom Check List Energy scale). Patients showed a significant improvement in Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale scores as well as in fatigue and work functioning measures following treatment. Fatigue measures were significantly associated with improvement in some (Lam Employment Absence and Productivity Scale, Sheehan Disability Scale), but not all (Health and Work Performance Questionnaire) work functioning measures, independent of improvement in overall depressive symptoms. The limitations of this study include the small sample size and the lack of a placebo or a comparison group. Fatigue and low energy are important symptoms that are associated with occupational impairment in MDD. Treatments that improve these symptoms are likely to improve work functioning.

Performance Analysis: Work Control Events Identified January - August 2010

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

De Grange, C E; Freeman, J W; Kerr, C E

2011-01-14

This performance analysis evaluated 24 events that occurred at LLNL from January through August 2010. The analysis identified areas of potential work control process and/or implementation weaknesses and several common underlying causes. Human performance improvement and safety culture factors were part of the causal analysis of each event and were analyzed. The collective significance of all events in 2010, as measured by the occurrence reporting significance category and by the proportion of events that have been reported to the DOE ORPS under the ''management concerns'' reporting criteria, does not appear to have increased in 2010. The frequency of reporting inmore » each of the significance categories has not changed in 2010 compared to the previous four years. There is no change indicating a trend in the significance category and there has been no increase in the proportion of occurrences reported in the higher significance category. Also, the frequency of events, 42 events reported through August 2010, is not greater than in previous years and is below the average of 63 occurrences per year at LLNL since 2006. Over the previous four years, an average of 43% of the LLNL's reported occurrences have been reported as either ''management concerns'' or ''near misses.'' In 2010, 29% of the occurrences have been reported as ''management concerns'' or ''near misses.'' This rate indicates that LLNL is now reporting fewer ''management concern'' and ''near miss'' occurrences compared to the previous four years. From 2008 to the present, LLNL senior management has undertaken a series of initiatives to strengthen the work planning and control system with the primary objective to improve worker safety. In 2008, the LLNL Deputy Director established the Work Control Integrated Project Team to develop the core requirements and graded elements of an institutional work planning and control system. By the end of that year this system was documented and implementation had begun. In 2009, training of the workforce began and as of the time of this report more than 50% of authorized Integration Work Sheets (IWS) use the activity-based planning process. In 2010, LSO independently reviewed the work planning and control process and confirmed to the Laboratory that the Integrated Safety Management (ISM) System was implemented. LLNL conducted a cross-directorate management self-assessment of work planning and control and is developing actions to respond to the issues identified. Ongoing efforts to strengthen the work planning and control process and to improve the quality of LLNL work packages are in progress: completion of remaining actions in response to the 2009 DOE Office of Health, Safety, and Security (HSS) evaluation of LLNL's ISM System; scheduling more than 14 work planning and control self-assessments in FY11; continuing to align subcontractor work control with the Institutional work planning and control system; and continuing to maintain the electronic IWS application. The 24 events included in this analysis were caused by errors in the first four of the five ISMS functions. The most frequent cause was errors in analyzing the hazards (Function 2). The second most frequent cause was errors occurring when defining the work (Function 1), followed by errors during the performance of work (Function 4). Interestingly, very few errors in developing controls (Function 3) resulted in events. This leads one to conclude that if improvements are made to defining the scope of work and analyzing the potential hazards, LLNL may reduce the frequency or severity of events. Analysis of the 24 events resulted in the identification of ten common causes. Some events had multiple causes, resulting in the mention of 39 causes being identified for the 24 events. The most frequent cause was workers, supervisors, or experts believing they understood the work and the hazards but their understanding was incomplete. The second most frequent cause was unclear, incomplete or confusing documents directing the work. Together, these two causes were mentioned 17 times and contributed to 13 of the events. All of the events with the cause of ''workers, supervisors, or experts believing they understood the work and the hazards but their understanding was incomplete'' had this error in the first two ISMS functions: define the work and analyze the hazard. This means that these causes result in the scope of work being ill-defined or the hazard(s) improperly analyzed. Incomplete implementation of these functional steps leads to the hazards not being controlled. The causes are then manifested in events when the work is conducted. The process to operate safely relies on accurately defining the scope of work. This review has identified a number of examples of latent organizational weakness in the execution of work control processes.« less

Work management plan for data systems and analysis directorate

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nichols, L. R.

1979-01-01

A contract with the Data Systems and Analysis Directorate contains a specified level of resources related to a specific set of work in support of three divisions within the Data Systems and Analysis Directorate. The divisions are Institutional Data Systems Division, Ground Data Systems Division, and Mission Planning and Analysis Division. The Statement of work defines at a functional requirements level the type of support to be provided to the three divisions. The contract provides for further technical direction to the contractor through issuance of Job Orders. The Job order is the prime method of further defining the work to be done, allocating a portion of the total resources in the contract to the defined tasks, and further delegating technical responsibility.

Employing socially driven techniques for framing, contextualization, and collaboration in complex analytical threads

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wollocko, Arthur; Danczyk, Jennifer; Farry, Michael; Jenkins, Michael; Voshell, Martin

2015-05-01

The proliferation of sensor technologies continues to impact Intelligence Analysis (IA) work domains. Historical procurement focus on sensor platform development and acquisition has resulted in increasingly advanced collection systems; however, such systems often demonstrate classic data overload conditions by placing increased burdens on already overtaxed human operators and analysts. Support technologies and improved interfaces have begun to emerge to ease that burden, but these often focus on single modalities or sensor platforms rather than underlying operator and analyst support needs, resulting in systems that do not adequately leverage their natural human attentional competencies, unique skills, and training. One particular reason why emerging support tools often fail is due to the gap between military applications and their functions, and the functions and capabilities afforded by cutting edge technology employed daily by modern knowledge workers who are increasingly "digitally native." With the entry of Generation Y into these workplaces, "net generation" analysts, who are familiar with socially driven platforms that excel at giving users insight into large data sets while keeping cognitive burdens at a minimum, are creating opportunities for enhanced workflows. By using these ubiquitous platforms, net generation analysts have trained skills in discovering new information socially, tracking trends among affinity groups, and disseminating information. However, these functions are currently under-supported by existing tools. In this paper, we describe how socially driven techniques can be contextualized to frame complex analytical threads throughout the IA process. This paper focuses specifically on collaborative support technology development efforts for a team of operators and analysts. Our work focuses on under-supported functions in current working environments, and identifies opportunities to improve a team's ability to discover new information and disseminate insightful analytic findings. We describe our Cognitive Systems Engineering approach to developing a novel collaborative enterprise IA system that combines modern collaboration tools with familiar contemporary social technologies. Our current findings detail specific cognitive and collaborative work support functions that defined the design requirements for a prototype analyst collaborative support environment.

Clarity of objectives and working principles enhances the success of biomimetic programs.

PubMed

Wolff, Jonas O; Wells, David; Reid, Chris R; Blamires, Sean J

2017-09-26

Biomimetics, the transfer of functional principles from living systems into product designs, is increasingly being utilized by engineers. Nevertheless, recurring problems must be overcome if it is to avoid becoming a short-lived fad. Here we assess the efficiency and suitability of methods typically employed by examining three flagship examples of biomimetic design approaches from different disciplines: (1) the creation of gecko-inspired adhesives; (2) the synthesis of spider silk, and (3) the derivation of computer algorithms from natural self-organizing systems. We find that identification of the elemental working principles is the most crucial step in the biomimetic design process. It bears the highest risk of failure (e.g. losing the target function) due to false assumptions about the working principle. Common problems that hamper successful implementation are: (i) a discrepancy between biological functions and the desired properties of the product, (ii) uncertainty about objectives and applications, (iii) inherent limits in methodologies, and (iv) false assumptions about the biology of the models. Projects that aim for multi-functional products are particularly challenging to accomplish. We suggest a simplification, modularisation and specification of objectives, and a critical assessment of the suitability of the model. Comparative analyses, experimental manipulation, and numerical simulations followed by tests of artificial models have led to the successful extraction of working principles. A searchable database of biological systems would optimize the choice of a model system in top-down approaches that start at an engineering problem. Only when biomimetic projects become more predictable will there be wider acceptance of biomimetics as an innovative problem-solving tool among engineers and industry.

C2 Link Security for UAS: Technical Literature Study and Preliminary Functional Requirements. Version 0.9 (Working Draft)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

This document provides a study of the technical literature related to Command and Control (C2) link security for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for operation in the National Airspace System (NAS). Included is a preliminary set of functional requirements for C2 link security.

A WebGIS-based command control system for forest fire fighting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Jianyu; Ming, Dongping; Zhang, Xiaodong; Huang, Haitao

2006-10-01

Forest is a finite resource and fire prevention is crucial work. However, once a forest fire or accident occurs, timely and effective fire-fighting is the only necessary measure. The aim of this research is to build a computerized command control system based on WEBGIS to direct fire-fighting. Firstly, this paper introduces the total technique flow and functional modules of the system. Secondly, this paper analyses the key techniques for building the system, and they are data obtaining, data organizing & management, architecture of WebGIS and sharing & interoperation technique. In the end, this paper demonstrates the on line martial symbol editing function to show the running result of system. The practical application of this system showed that it played very important role in the forest fire fighting work. In addition, this paper proposes some strategic recommendations for the further development of the system.

Research on AutoCAD secondary development and function expansion based on VBA technology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Runmei; Gu, Yehuan

2017-06-01

AutoCAD is the most widely used drawing tool among the similar design drawing products. In the process of drawing different types of design drawings of the same product, there are a lot of repetitive and single work contents. The traditional manual method uses a drawing software AutoCAD drawing graphics with low efficiency, high error rate and high input cost shortcomings and many more. In order to solve these problems, the design of the parametric drawing system of the hot-rolled I-beam (steel beam) cross-section is completed by using the VBA secondary development tool and the Access database software with large-capacity storage data, and the analysis of the functional extension of the plane drawing and the parametric drawing design in this paper. For the secondary development of AutoCAD functions, the system drawing work will be simplified and work efficiency also has been greatly improved. This introduction of parametric design of AutoCAD drawing system to promote the industrial mass production and related industries economic growth rate similar to the standard I-beam hot-rolled products.

The level crossing rates and associated statistical properties of a random frequency response function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Langley, Robin S.

2018-03-01

This work is concerned with the statistical properties of the frequency response function of the energy of a random system. Earlier studies have considered the statistical distribution of the function at a single frequency, or alternatively the statistics of a band-average of the function. In contrast the present analysis considers the statistical fluctuations over a frequency band, and results are obtained for the mean rate at which the function crosses a specified level (or equivalently, the average number of times the level is crossed within the band). Results are also obtained for the probability of crossing a specified level at least once, the mean rate of occurrence of peaks, and the mean trough-to-peak height. The analysis is based on the assumption that the natural frequencies and mode shapes of the system have statistical properties that are governed by the Gaussian Orthogonal Ensemble (GOE), and the validity of this assumption is demonstrated by comparison with numerical simulations for a random plate. The work has application to the assessment of the performance of dynamic systems that are sensitive to random imperfections.

Adolescents’ Functional Numeracy Is Predicted by Their School Entry Number System Knowledge

PubMed Central

Geary, David C.; Hoard, Mary K.; Nugent, Lara; Bailey, Drew H.

2013-01-01

One in five adults in the United States is functionally innumerate; they do not possess the mathematical competencies needed for many modern jobs. We administered functional numeracy measures used in studies of young adults’ employability and wages to 180 thirteen-year-olds. The adolescents began the study in kindergarten and participated in multiple assessments of intelligence, working memory, mathematical cognition, achievement, and in-class attentive behavior. Their number system knowledge at the beginning of first grade was defined by measures that assessed knowledge of the systematic relations among Arabic numerals and skill at using this knowledge to solve arithmetic problems. Early number system knowledge predicted functional numeracy more than six years later (ß = 0.195, p = .0014) controlling for intelligence, working memory, in-class attentive behavior, mathematical achievement, demographic and other factors, but skill at using counting procedures to solve arithmetic problems did not. In all, we identified specific beginning of schooling numerical knowledge that contributes to individual differences in adolescents’ functional numeracy and demonstrated that performance on mathematical achievement tests underestimates the importance of this early knowledge. PMID:23382934

Present status and future of the sophisticated work station

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ishida, Haruhisa

The excellency of the work station is explained, by comparing the functions of software and hardware of work station with those of personal computer. As one of the examples utilizing the functions of work station, desk top publishing is explained. By describing the competition between the Group of ATT · Sun Microsystems which intends to have the leadership by integrating Berkeley version which is most popular at this moment and System V version, and the group led by IBM, future of UNIX as OS of work station is predicted. Development of RISC processor, TRON Plan and Sigma Projects by MITI are also mentioned as its background.

Extending and implementing the Persistent ID pillars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Car, Nicholas; Golodoniuc, Pavel; Klump, Jens

2017-04-01

The recent double decade anniversary of scholarly persistent identifier use has triggered journal special editions such as "20 Years of Persistent Identifiers". For such a publication, it is apt to consider the longevity of some persistent identifier (PID) mechanisms (Digital Object Identifiers) and the partial disappearance of others (Life Sciences IDs). We have previously postulated a set of "PID Pillars" [1] which are design principles aimed at ensuring PIDs can survive technology and social change and thus persist for the long term that we have drawn from our observations of PIDs at work over many years. The principles: describe how to ensure identifiers' system and organisation independence; codify the delivery of essential PID system functions; mandate a separation of PID functions from data delivery mechanisms; and require generation of policies detailing how change is handled. In this presentation, first we extend on our previous work of introducing the pillars by refining their descriptions, giving specific suggestions for each and presenting some work that addresses them. Second, we propose a baseline data model for persistent identifiers that, if used, would assist the separation of PID metadata and PID system functioning. This would allow PID system function specifics to change over time (e.g. resolver services or even resolution protocols) and yet preserve the PIDs themselves. Third, we detail our existing PID system — the PID Service [2] — that partially implements the pillars and describe both its successes and shortcomings. Finally, we describe our planned next-generation system that will aim to use the baseline data model and fully implement the pillars.

Electromagnetic Modeling, Optimization and Uncertainty Quantification for Antenna and Radar Systems Surfaces Scattering and Energy Absorption

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-03-06

design of antenna and radar systems, energy absorption and scattering by rough-surfaces. This work has lead to significant new methodologies , including...problems in the field of electromagnetic propagation and scattering, with applicability to design of antenna and radar systems, energy absorption...and scattering by rough-surfaces. This work has lead to significant new methodologies , including introduction of a certain Windowed Green Function

Concentrated solar power generation using solar receivers

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

Anderson, Bruce N.; Treece, William Dean; Brown, Dan

Inventive concentrated solar power systems using solar receivers, and related devices and methods, are generally described. Low pressure solar receivers are provided that function to convert solar radiation energy to thermal energy of a working fluid, e.g., a working fluid of a power generation or thermal storage system. In some embodiments, low pressure solar receivers are provided herein that are useful in conjunction with gas turbine based power generation systems.

Distinct functional states of astrocytes during sleep and wakefulness: Is norepinephrine the master regulator?

PubMed Central

O’Donnell, John; Ding, Fengfei; Nedergaard, Maiken

2015-01-01

Astrocytes are the chief supportive cells in the central nervous system, but work over the past 20 years have documented that astrocytes also contribute to complex neural processes, such as working memory. Recent discoveries of norepinephrine-mediated astrocytic Ca2+ responses have raised the possibility that astrocytic activity in the adult brain is driven by global responses to changes in behavioral state. Moreover, analysis of the interstitial space volume suggests that astrocytes may undergo changes in cell volume in response to activation of norepinephrine receptors. This review will focus on what is known about astrocytic functions within the nervous system, and how these functions interrelate with rapid changes in behavioral state mediated by norepinephrine signaling. PMID:26618103

Momentum distribution functions in ensembles: the inequivalence of microcannonical and canonical ensembles in a finite ultracold system.

PubMed

Wang, Pei; Xianlong, Gao; Li, Haibin

2013-08-01

It is demonstrated in many thermodynamic textbooks that the equivalence of the different ensembles is achieved in the thermodynamic limit. In this present work we discuss the inequivalence of microcanonical and canonical ensembles in a finite ultracold system at low energies. We calculate the microcanonical momentum distribution function (MDF) in a system of identical fermions (bosons). We find that the microcanonical MDF deviates from the canonical one, which is the Fermi-Dirac (Bose-Einstein) function, in a finite system at low energies where the single-particle density of states and its inverse are finite.

The reaction of the cardio-vascular and sympathico-adrenal systems to intellectual activity with emotional stress. [human operator performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tomashevskaya, L. I.

1975-01-01

The effect of emotiogenic factors on an operator's intellectual activity were studied for differing working regimes on an experimental control panel that provided for light, sonic, and electrocutaneous stimuli. The latter stimulus was activated automatically if the subject gave an incorrect response. It was shown that the working capacity of the operator under stress depends to a great extent on the effect of the emotiogenic factors on the individual functioning characteristics of the cardiovascular and sympathetic-adrenal systems. Moral, intellectual, willpower, emotional, and other personality traits are decisive factors of operator function.

[Individual typological peculiarities of system blood flow, physical capacity for work and cardiac activity regulation in patients with different resistance to periodontal diseases].

PubMed

Bragin, A V

2008-01-01

From position of typological variability of physiological individuality concept-functional constitution types - the principle of organism integrity was substantiated for stomatological pathology. There were isolated typical and specific reactions of cardiac-vessel system in patients with different resistance to periodontal diseases. Each functional type - patients with different levels of usual motion activity - had their own physiological peculiarities of parameters of system blood flow, physical capacity for work and cardiac activity regulation, that determined individual typological organism reaction in cases of maxillo-facial system pathology. The received data gives the objective base for physiological approach to single out the extreme variants of norm for forming risk contingent and groups of resistant people to periodontal diseases.

RATANA MEEKHAM, AN ELECTRICAL INTEGRATION TECHNICIAN FOR QUALIS CORP. OF HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA, HELPS TEST AVIONICS -- COMPLEX VEHICLE SYSTEMS ENABLING NAVIGATION, COMMUNICATIONS AND OTHER FUNCTIONS CRITICAL TO HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT

NASA Image and Video Library

2015-01-08

RATANA MEEKHAM, AN ELECTRICAL INTEGRATION TECHNICIAN FOR QUALIS CORP. OF HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA, HELPS TEST AVIONICS -- COMPLEX VEHICLE SYSTEMS ENABLING NAVIGATION, COMMUNICATIONS AND OTHER FUNCTIONS CRITICAL TO HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT -- FOR THE SPACE LAUNCH SYSTEM PROGRAM AT NASA’S MARSHALL SPACE FLIGHT CENTER IN HUNTSVILLE, ALABAMA. HER WORK SUPPORTS THE NASA ENGINEERING & SCIENCE SERVICES AND SKILLS AUGMENTATION CONTRACT LED BY JACOBS ENGINEERING OF HUNTSVILLE. MEEKHAM WORKS FULL-TIME AT MARSHALL WHILE FINISHING HER ASSOCIATE'S DEGREE IN MACHINE TOOL TECHNOLOGY AT CALHOUN COMMUNITY COLLEGE IN DECATUR, ALABAMA. THE SPACE LAUNCH SYSTEM, NASA’S NEXT HEAVY-LIFT LAUNCH VEHICLE, IS THE WORLD’S MOST POWERFUL ROCKET, SET TO FLY ITS FIRST UNCREWED LUNAR ORBITAL MISSION IN 2018. ITS FIRST.

Long-term health and work outcomes of renal transplantation and patterns of work status during the end-stage renal disease trajectory.

PubMed

van der Mei, Sijrike F; Kuiper, Daphne; Groothoff, Johan W; van den Heuvel, Wim J A; van Son, Willem J; Brouwer, Sandra

2011-09-01

The aim of this study was to examine the health- and work outcomes of renal transplant recipients long-term after transplantation as well as the pattern of work status, work ability and disability benefits during the end-stage renal disease (ESRD) trajectory that precedes transplantation. 34 transplant recipients completed interviews 3, 13 months and >6 years posttransplantation. Health status (SF-36), work ability (WAI), and fatigue (CIS) were assessed by questionnaires, clinical data were derived from medical charts, and data on functional limitations were extracted from the social security system database. The work status trajectory preceding transplantation was examined retrospectively. Of the 34 third wave transplant recipients, 29% were severely fatigued. Compared with the general working population, recipients experienced worse general health and less vitality. Non-working recipients had worse renal function and general health, and more limitations in physical functioning compared to working recipients. The WAI score indicated moderate work ability for 60% of the employed recipients. Although 67% were employed (45% parttime), 30% of those working still received some disability benefits. Social insurance physicians found variable levels of functional limitations. The mean work status trajectory showed more sickness absence and less work ability during dialysis, but after transplantation, both work status and work ability generally improved. Transplant recipients have a compromised health status which leads to functional limitations and disability. Although work status improved after transplantation, a substantial number of the transplant recipients received disability benefits. The negative health consequences of anti-rejection medications may play an important role in long-term work ability. These results indicate that a 'new' kidney has advantages over dialysis with respect to work, but does not necessarily leads to 'normal' work outcomes.

Computer simulation of functioning of elements of security systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godovykh, A. V.; Stepanov, B. P.; Sheveleva, A. A.

2017-01-01

The article is devoted to issues of development of the informational complex for simulation of functioning of the security system elements. The complex is described from the point of view of main objectives, a design concept and an interrelation of main elements. The proposed conception of the computer simulation provides an opportunity to simulate processes of security system work for training security staff during normal and emergency operation.

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

Li, H., E-mail: li-huanglong@mail.tsinghua.edu.cn; Gillen, R.; Robertson, J., E-mail: jr214@cam.ac.uk

The screened exchange (sX) hybrid functional has been widely used in computational material science. Although it has widely been studied in bulk systems, less is known about its functional behavior in surface systems which are crucial to many technologies such as materials synthesis and nano-electronic devices. Assessing the screening dependent functional behaviors in the surface systems is therefore important for its application in such systems. In this work, we investigate the screening effects of the sX in CO adsorption on Pt(111) surface. The differences between the sX and Heyd-Scuseria-Ernzerhof (HSE06) hybrid functionals, and the effects of screening parameters are studied.more » The screening has two effects: first, the HOMO-LUMO gap is screening dependent. This affects the site preference most significantly. In this work, atop adsorption of CO/Pt(111) is predicted by the hybrid functionals with screened exchange potential. The sX(1.44) gives the largest HOMO-LUMO gap for the isolated CO molecule. The adsorption energy difference between the atop and fcc site is also the largest by the sX(1.44) which is explained by the reduced metal d states to the CO 2π* state back-donation, with stronger effect for the fcc adsorption than for the atop adsorption; second, the adsorption energy is screening dependent. This can be seen by comparing the sX(2.38) and HSE06 which have different screening strengths. They show similar surface band structures for the CO adsorption but different adsorption energies, which is explained by the stronger CO 5σ state to the metal d states donation or the effectively screened Pauli repulsion. This work underlines the screening strength as a main difference between sX and HSE06, as well as an important hybrid functional parameter for surface calculation.« less

[Automation in surgery: a systematical approach].

PubMed

Strauss, G; Meixensberger, J; Dietz, A; Manzey, D

2007-04-01

Surgical assistance systems permit a misalignment from the purely manual to an assisted activity of the surgeon (automation). Automation defines a system, that partly or totally fulfils function, those was carried out before totally or partly by the user. The organization of surgical assistance systems following application (planning, simulation, intraoperative navigation and visualization) or technical configuration of the system (manipulator, robot) is not suitable for a description of the interaction between user (surgeon) and the system. The available work has the goal of providing a classification for the degree of the automation of surgical interventions and describing by examples. The presented classification orients itself at pre-working from the Human-Factors-Sciences. As a condition for an automation of a surgical intervention applies that an assumption of a task, which was alone assigned so far to the surgeon takes place via the system. For both reference objects (humans and machine) the condition passively or actively comes into consideration. Besides can be classified according to which functions are taken over during a selected function division by humans and/or the surgical assistance system. Three functional areas were differentiated: "information acquisition and -analysis", "decision making and action planning" as well as "execution of the surgical action". From this results a classification of pre- and intraoperative surgical assist systems in six categories, which represent different automation degrees. The classification pattern is described and illustrated on the basis of surgical of examples.

Working memory deficits in high-functioning adolescents with autism spectrum disorders: neuropsychological and neuroimaging correlates.

PubMed

Barendse, Evelien M; Hendriks, Marc Ph; Jansen, Jacobus Fa; Backes, Walter H; Hofman, Paul Am; Thoonen, Geert; Kessels, Roy Pc; Aldenkamp, Albert P

2013-06-04

Working memory is a temporary storage system under attentional control. It is believed to play a central role in online processing of complex cognitive information and may also play a role in social cognition and interpersonal interactions. Adolescents with a disorder on the autism spectrum display problems in precisely these domains. Social impairments, communication difficulties, and repetitive interests and activities are core domains of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), and executive function problems are often seen throughout the spectrum. As the main cognitive theories of ASD, including the theory of mind deficit hypotheses, weak central coherence account, and the executive dysfunction theory, still fail to explain the broad spectrum of symptoms, a new perspective on the etiology of ASD is needed. Deficits in working memory are central to many theories of psychopathology, and are generally linked to frontal-lobe dysfunction. This article will review neuropsychological and (functional) brain imaging studies on working memory in adolescents with ASD. Although still disputed, it is concluded that within the working memory system specific problems of spatial working memory are often seen in adolescents with ASD. These problems increase when information is more complex and greater demands on working memory are made. Neuroimaging studies indicate a more global working memory processing or connectivity deficiency, rather than a focused deficit in the prefrontal cortex. More research is needed to relate these working memory difficulties and neuroimaging results in ASD to the behavioral difficulties as seen in individuals with a disorder on the autism spectrum.

Dynamic bin packing problem

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dikshit, Piyush; Guimaraes, Katia; Ramamurthy, Maya; Agrawala, Ashok K.; Larsen, Ronald L.

1989-01-01

In a previous work we have defined a general architecture model for autonomous systems, which can be mapped easily to describe the functions of any automated system (SDAG-86-01). In this note, we use the model to describe the problem of thermal management in space stations. First we briefly review the architecture, then we present the environment of our application, and finally we detail the specific function for each functional block of the architecture for that environment.

Bioinspired nanovalves with selective permeability and pH sensitivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Z.; Huang, X.; Schenderlein, M.; Moehwald, H.; Xu, G.-K.; Shchukin, D. G.

2015-01-01

Biological systems with controlled permeability and release functionality, which are among the successful examples of living beings to survive in evolution, have attracted intensive investigation and have been mimicked due to their broad spectrum of applications. We present in this work, for the first time, an example of nuclear pore complexes (NPCs)-inspired controlled release system that exhibits on-demand release of angstrom-sized molecules. We do so in a cost-effective way by stabilizing porous cobalt basic carbonates as nanovalves and realizing pH-sensitive release of entrapped subnano cargo. The proof-of-concept work also consists of the establishment of two mathematical models to explain the selective permeability of the nanovalves. Finally, gram-sized (or larger) quantities of the bio-inspired controlled release system can be synthesized through a scaling-up strategy, which opens up opportunities for controlled release of functional molecules in wider practical applications.Biological systems with controlled permeability and release functionality, which are among the successful examples of living beings to survive in evolution, have attracted intensive investigation and have been mimicked due to their broad spectrum of applications. We present in this work, for the first time, an example of nuclear pore complexes (NPCs)-inspired controlled release system that exhibits on-demand release of angstrom-sized molecules. We do so in a cost-effective way by stabilizing porous cobalt basic carbonates as nanovalves and realizing pH-sensitive release of entrapped subnano cargo. The proof-of-concept work also consists of the establishment of two mathematical models to explain the selective permeability of the nanovalves. Finally, gram-sized (or larger) quantities of the bio-inspired controlled release system can be synthesized through a scaling-up strategy, which opens up opportunities for controlled release of functional molecules in wider practical applications. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c4nr06378c

Impacts of hospitals' innovativeness on information system outsourcing decisions.

PubMed

Park, Jae Sung

2014-04-01

The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of hospitals' innovativeness on outsourcing decision-making regarding four information system (IS) functions, namely, software programs, network maintenance, hardware systems, and PC/printer maintenance. Using the 2011 roster of the Korean Hospital Association, this study selected 311 general hospitals as a study population. After identifying the managers who were in charge of outsourcing, this study administered questionnaires. A total of 103 hospitals responded. Of the responding hospitals, 55.34% outsourced at least one IS function, whereas 88.35% outsourced at least one managerial function. IS outsourcing was motivated by the need for outside experts, but other managerial functions were outsourced for cost savings. Innovative and early adopter hospitals were 4.52 and 4.91 times more likely to outsource IS functions related with work processes (i.e., software and network maintenance) than early and late majority hospitals, respectively. IT outsourcing effectiveness significantly influenced the outsourcing decisions regarding four IS functions. Hospitals that had perceived more risks of outsourcing significantly preferred non-outsourcing on their hardware systems, but the risks of outsourcing were not significant for outsourcing decisions regarding the other IS functions. Hospitals' innovativeness also significantly explained the quantity of innovation adoptions. Innovative and early adopter hospitals did more outsourcing than early and late majority hospitals. Hospitals' innovativeness influences decision-making regarding outsourcing. Innovative hospitals are more likely to outsource their work-process-related IS functions. Thus, organizational traits, especially hospitals' innovativeness, should be considered as a key success factor for IS management.

Design of a structural and functional hierarchy for planning and control of telerobotic systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Acar, Levent; Ozguner, Umit

1989-01-01

Hierarchical structures offer numerous advantages over conventional structures for the control of telerobotic systems. A hierarchically organized system can be controlled via undetailed task assignments and can easily adapt to changing circumstances. The distributed and modular structure of these systems also enables fast response needed in most telerobotic applications. On the other hand, most of the hierarchical structures proposed in the literature are based on functional properties of a system. These structures work best for a few given functions of a large class of systems. In telerobotic applications, all functions of a single system needed to be explored. This approach requires a hierarchical organization based on physical properties of a system and such a hierarchical organization is introduced. The decomposition, organization, and control of the hierarchical structure are considered, and a system with two robot arms and a camera is presented.

Model-based metrics of human-automation function allocation in complex work environments

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, So Young

Function allocation is the design decision which assigns work functions to all agents in a team, both human and automated. Efforts to guide function allocation systematically has been studied in many fields such as engineering, human factors, team and organization design, management science, and cognitive systems engineering. Each field focuses on certain aspects of function allocation, but not all; thus, an independent discussion of each does not address all necessary issues with function allocation. Four distinctive perspectives emerged from a review of these fields: technology-centered, human-centered, team-oriented, and work-oriented. Each perspective focuses on different aspects of function allocation: capabilities and characteristics of agents (automation or human), team structure and processes, and work structure and the work environment. Together, these perspectives identify the following eight issues with function allocation: 1) Workload, 2) Incoherency in function allocations, 3) Mismatches between responsibility and authority, 4) Interruptive automation, 5) Automation boundary conditions, 6) Function allocation preventing human adaptation to context, 7) Function allocation destabilizing the humans' work environment, and 8) Mission Performance. Addressing these issues systematically requires formal models and simulations that include all necessary aspects of human-automation function allocation: the work environment, the dynamics inherent to the work, agents, and relationships among them. Also, addressing these issues requires not only a (static) model, but also a (dynamic) simulation that captures temporal aspects of work such as the timing of actions and their impact on the agent's work. Therefore, with properly modeled work as described by the work environment, the dynamics inherent to the work, agents, and relationships among them, a modeling framework developed by this thesis, which includes static work models and dynamic simulation, can capture the issues with function allocation. Then, based on the eight issues, eight types of metrics are established. The purpose of these metrics is to assess the extent to which each issue exists with a given function allocation. Specifically, the eight types of metrics assess workload, coherency of a function allocation, mismatches between responsibility and authority, interruptive automation, automation boundary conditions, human adaptation to context, stability of the human's work environment, and mission performance. Finally, to validate the modeling framework and the metrics, a case study was conducted modeling four different function allocations between a pilot and flight deck automation during the arrival and approach phases of flight. A range of pilot cognitive control modes and maximum human taskload limits were also included in the model. The metrics were assessed for these four function allocations and analyzed to validate capability of the metrics to identify important issues in given function allocations. In addition, the design insights provided by the metrics are highlighted. This thesis concludes with a discussion of mechanisms for further validating the modeling framework and function allocation metrics developed here, and highlights where these developments can be applied in research and in the design of function allocations in complex work environments such as aviation operations.

78 FR 35936 - Statement of Organization, Functions, and Delegations of Authority

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-06-14

... to, laboratory information systems, quality management systems and bioinformatics; (3) ensures a safe working environment in NCIRD laboratories; and (4) collaborates effectively with other centers and offices...

Causal and Teleological Reasoning in Circuit Recognition.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-09-01

MCS77-04828 9. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS 10. PROOGRAM ELEMENT. PROJECT. TASK Artificial Intelligence Laboratory I-AREA WORK vN iU RS...by humans with the same knowledge. An extreme example of this is Macsyma [771. This system can perform manipulations, usually using standard...behavior must be like. These latter structural types of forcing functions are the more interesting. One forcing function is performance . Does it work

A Dynamic Simulation of Musculoskeletal Function in the Mouse Hindlimb During Trotting Locomotion

PubMed Central

Charles, James P.; Cappellari, Ornella; Hutchinson, John R.

2018-01-01

Mice are often used as animal models of various human neuromuscular diseases, and analysis of these models often requires detailed gait analysis. However, little is known of the dynamics of the mouse musculoskeletal system during locomotion. In this study, we used computer optimization procedures to create a simulation of trotting in a mouse, using a previously developed mouse hindlimb musculoskeletal model in conjunction with new experimental data, allowing muscle forces, activation patterns, and levels of mechanical work to be estimated. Analyzing musculotendon unit (MTU) mechanical work throughout the stride allowed a deeper understanding of their respective functions, with the rectus femoris MTU dominating the generation of positive and negative mechanical work during the swing and stance phases. This analysis also tested previous functional inferences of the mouse hindlimb made from anatomical data alone, such as the existence of a proximo-distal gradient of muscle function, thought to reflect adaptations for energy-efficient locomotion. The results do not strongly support the presence of this gradient within the mouse musculoskeletal system, particularly given relatively high negative net work output from the ankle plantarflexor MTUs, although more detailed simulations could test this further. This modeling analysis lays a foundation for future studies of the control of vertebrate movement through the development of neuromechanical simulations. PMID:29868576

A two-layered classifier based on the radial basis function for the screening of thalassaemia.

PubMed

Masala, G L; Golosio, B; Cutzu, R; Pola, R

2013-11-01

The thalassaemias are blood disorders with hereditary transmission. Their distribution is global, with particular incidence in areas affected by malaria. Their diagnosis is mainly based on haematologic and genetic analyses. The aim of this study was to differentiate between persons with the thalassaemia trait and normal subjects by inspecting characteristics of haemochromocytometric data. The paper proposes an original method that is useful in screening activity for thalassaemia classification. A complete working system with a friendly graphical user interface is presented. A unique feature of the presented work is the adoption of a two-layered classification system based on Radial basis function, which improves the performance of the system. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Individualization and Needed Research.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ott, Jack M.; And Others

As has been the case in medicine, social work, and psychiatry, progress in education will follow closely the adequacy of our category system concerning pertinent functions of a child, our understanding of these functions, how children fail to function properly (malfunction), causes of malfunction, signs of malfunction, course of malfunction (time,…

Fluctuations When Driving Between Nonequilibrium Steady States

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Riechers, Paul M.; Crutchfield, James P.

2017-08-01

Maintained by environmental fluxes, biological systems are thermodynamic processes that operate far from equilibrium without detailed-balanced dynamics. Yet, they often exhibit well defined nonequilibrium steady states (NESSs). More importantly, critical thermodynamic functionality arises directly from transitions among their NESSs, driven by environmental switching. Here, we identify the constraints on excess heat and dissipated work necessary to control a system that is kept far from equilibrium by background, uncontrolled "housekeeping" forces. We do this by extending the Crooks fluctuation theorem to transitions among NESSs, without invoking an unphysical dual dynamics. This and corresponding integral fluctuation theorems determine how much work must be expended when controlling systems maintained far from equilibrium. This generalizes thermodynamic feedback control theory, showing that Maxwellian Demons can leverage mesoscopic-state information to take advantage of the excess energetics in NESS transitions. We also generalize an approach recently used to determine the work dissipated when driving between functionally relevant configurations of an active energy-consuming complex system. Altogether, these results highlight universal thermodynamic laws that apply to the accessible degrees of freedom within the effective dynamic at any emergent level of hierarchical organization. By way of illustration, we analyze a voltage-gated sodium ion channel whose molecular conformational dynamics play a critical functional role in propagating action potentials in mammalian neuronal membranes.

Functional localization in the nucleus rotundus.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1977-10-01

Work has suggested that the effects of psychoactive drugs on visual performance may best be understood, and/or predicted, by studying differential effects of the drugs on functionally differentiated sets of neurones in visual projection systems in th...

Methodology to Support Dynamic Function Allocation Policies Between Humans and Flight Deck Automation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, Eric N.

2012-01-01

Function allocation assigns work functions to all agents in a team, both human and automation. Efforts to guide function allocation systematically have been studied in many fields such as engineering, human factors, team and organization design, management science, cognitive systems engineering. Each field focuses on certain aspects of function allocation, but not all; thus, an independent discussion of each does not address all necessary aspects of function allocation. Four distinctive perspectives have emerged from this comprehensive review of literature on those fields: the technology-centered, human-centered, team-oriented, and work-oriented perspectives. Each perspective focuses on different aspects of function allocation: capabilities and characteristics of agents (automation or human), structure and strategy of a team, and work structure and environment. This report offers eight issues with function allocation that can be used to assess the extent to which each of issues exist on a given function allocation. A modeling framework using formal models and simulation was developed to model work as described by the environment, agents, their inherent dynamics, and relationships among them. Finally, to validate the framework and metrics, a case study modeled four different function allocations between a pilot and flight deck automation during the arrival and approach phases of flight.

Modeling Patient Treatment With Medical Records: An Abstraction Hierarchy to Understand User Competencies and Needs.

PubMed

St-Maurice, Justin D; Burns, Catherine M

2017-07-28

Health care is a complex sociotechnical system. Patient treatment is evolving and needs to incorporate the use of technology and new patient-centered treatment paradigms. Cognitive work analysis (CWA) is an effective framework for understanding complex systems, and work domain analysis (WDA) is useful for understanding complex ecologies. Although previous applications of CWA have described patient treatment, due to their scope of work patients were previously characterized as biomedical machines, rather than patient actors involved in their own care. An abstraction hierarchy that characterizes patients as beings with complex social values and priorities is needed. This can help better understand treatment in a modern approach to care. The purpose of this study was to perform a WDA to represent the treatment of patients with medical records. The methods to develop this model included the analysis of written texts and collaboration with subject matter experts. Our WDA represents the ecology through its functional purposes, abstract functions, generalized functions, physical functions, and physical forms. Compared with other work domain models, this model is able to articulate the nuanced balance between medical treatment, patient education, and limited health care resources. Concepts in the analysis were similar to the modeling choices of other WDAs but combined them in as a comprehensive, systematic, and contextual overview. The model is helpful to understand user competencies and needs. Future models could be developed to model the patient's domain and enable the exploration of the shared decision-making (SDM) paradigm. Our work domain model links treatment goals, decision-making constraints, and task workflows. This model can be used by system developers who would like to use ecological interface design (EID) to improve systems. Our hierarchy is the first in a future set that could explore new treatment paradigms. Future hierarchies could model the patient as a controller and could be useful for mobile app development. ©Justin D St-Maurice, Catherine M Burns. Originally published in JMIR Human Factors (http://humanfactors.jmir.org), 28.07.2017.

Modeling Patient Treatment With Medical Records: An Abstraction Hierarchy to Understand User Competencies and Needs

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Background Health care is a complex sociotechnical system. Patient treatment is evolving and needs to incorporate the use of technology and new patient-centered treatment paradigms. Cognitive work analysis (CWA) is an effective framework for understanding complex systems, and work domain analysis (WDA) is useful for understanding complex ecologies. Although previous applications of CWA have described patient treatment, due to their scope of work patients were previously characterized as biomedical machines, rather than patient actors involved in their own care. Objective An abstraction hierarchy that characterizes patients as beings with complex social values and priorities is needed. This can help better understand treatment in a modern approach to care. The purpose of this study was to perform a WDA to represent the treatment of patients with medical records. Methods The methods to develop this model included the analysis of written texts and collaboration with subject matter experts. Our WDA represents the ecology through its functional purposes, abstract functions, generalized functions, physical functions, and physical forms. Results Compared with other work domain models, this model is able to articulate the nuanced balance between medical treatment, patient education, and limited health care resources. Concepts in the analysis were similar to the modeling choices of other WDAs but combined them in as a comprehensive, systematic, and contextual overview. The model is helpful to understand user competencies and needs. Future models could be developed to model the patient’s domain and enable the exploration of the shared decision-making (SDM) paradigm. Conclusion Our work domain model links treatment goals, decision-making constraints, and task workflows. This model can be used by system developers who would like to use ecological interface design (EID) to improve systems. Our hierarchy is the first in a future set that could explore new treatment paradigms. Future hierarchies could model the patient as a controller and could be useful for mobile app development. PMID:28754650

A novel approach for analyzing fuzzy system reliability using different types of intuitionistic fuzzy failure rates of components.

PubMed

Kumar, Mohit; Yadav, Shiv Prasad

2012-03-01

This paper addresses the fuzzy system reliability analysis using different types of intuitionistic fuzzy numbers. Till now, in the literature, to analyze the fuzzy system reliability, it is assumed that the failure rates of all components of a system follow the same type of fuzzy set or intuitionistic fuzzy set. However, in practical problems, such type of situation rarely occurs. Therefore, in the present paper, a new algorithm has been introduced to construct the membership function and non-membership function of fuzzy reliability of a system having components following different types of intuitionistic fuzzy failure rates. Functions of intuitionistic fuzzy numbers are calculated to construct the membership function and non-membership function of fuzzy reliability via non-linear programming techniques. Using the proposed algorithm, membership functions and non-membership functions of fuzzy reliability of a series system and a parallel systems are constructed. Our study generalizes the various works of the literature. Numerical examples are given to illustrate the proposed algorithm. Copyright © 2011 ISA. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Graspable Multimedia: A Study of the Effect of A Multimedia System Embodied with Physical Artefacts on Working Memory Capacity of Preschoolers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chau, Kien Tsong; Samsudin, Zarina; Yahaya, Wan Ahmad Jaafar Wan

2018-01-01

Insignificant consideration in multimedia research has been given to the features that are associated with cognitive functioning in general, and working memory (WM) in particular for preschoolers. As correlational research works discovered a close association between WM and learning achievement, multimedia research works that are tapping into…

International Space Station (ISS)

NASA Image and Video Library

2001-02-01

The Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) is responsible for designing and building the life support systems that will provide the crew of the International Space Station (ISS) a comfortable environment in which to live and work. Scientists and engineers at the MSFC are working together to provide the ISS with systems that are safe, efficient and cost-effective. These compact and powerful systems are collectively called the Environmental Control and Life Support Systems, or simply, ECLSS. This is an exterior view of the U.S. Laboratory Module Simulator containing the ECLSS Internal Thermal Control System (ITCS) testing facility at MSFC. At the bottom right is the data acquisition and control computers (in the blue equipment racks) that monitor the testing in the facility. The ITCS simulator facility duplicates the function, operation, and troubleshooting problems of the ITCS. The main function of the ITCS is to control the temperature of equipment and hardware installed in a typical ISS Payload Rack.

Integration of a satellite ground support system based on analysis of the satellite ground support domain

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pendley, R. D.; Scheidker, E. J.; Levitt, D. S.; Myers, C. R.; Werking, R. D.

1994-01-01

This analysis defines a complete set of ground support functions based on those practiced in real space flight operations during the on-orbit phase of a mission. These functions are mapped against ground support functions currently in use by NASA and DOD. Software components to provide these functions can be hosted on RISC-based work stations and integrated to provide a modular, integrated ground support system. Such modular systems can be configured to provide as much ground support functionality as desired. This approach to ground systems has been widely proposed and prototyped both by government institutions and commercial vendors. The combined set of ground support functions we describe can be used as a standard to evaluate candidate ground systems. This approach has also been used to develop a prototype of a modular, loosely-integrated ground support system, which is discussed briefly. A crucial benefit to a potential user is that all the components are flight-qualified, thus giving high confidence in their accuracy and reliability.

Integration of a satellite ground support system based on analysis of the satellite ground support domain

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pendley, R. D.; Scheidker, E. J.; Levitt, D. S.; Myers, C. R.; Werking, R. D.

1994-11-01

This analysis defines a complete set of ground support functions based on those practiced in real space flight operations during the on-orbit phase of a mission. These functions are mapped against ground support functions currently in use by NASA and DOD. Software components to provide these functions can be hosted on RISC-based work stations and integrated to provide a modular, integrated ground support system. Such modular systems can be configured to provide as much ground support functionality as desired. This approach to ground systems has been widely proposed and prototyped both by government institutions and commercial vendors. The combined set of ground support functions we describe can be used as a standard to evaluate candidate ground systems. This approach has also been used to develop a prototype of a modular, loosely-integrated ground support system, which is discussed briefly. A crucial benefit to a potential user is that all the components are flight-qualified, thus giving high confidence in their accuracy and reliability.

Experiences with a generator tool for building clinical application modules.

PubMed

Kuhn, K A; Lenz, R; Elstner, T; Siegele, H; Moll, R

2003-01-01

To elaborate main system characteristics and relevant deployment experiences for the health information system (HIS) Orbis/OpenMed, which is in widespread use in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. In a deployment phase of 3 years in a 1.200 bed university hospital, where the system underwent significant improvements, the system's functionality and its software design have been analyzed in detail. We focus on an integrated CASE tool for generating embedded clinical applications and for incremental system evolution. We present a participatory and iterative software engineering process developed for efficient utilization of such a tool. The system's functionality is comparable to other commercial products' functionality; its components are embedded in a vendor-specific application framework, and standard interfaces are being used for connecting subsystems. The integrated generator tool is a remarkable feature; it became a key factor of our project. Tool generated applications are workflow enabled and embedded into the overall data base schema. Rapid prototyping and iterative refinement are supported, so application modules can be adapted to the users' work practice. We consider tools supporting an iterative and participatory software engineering process highly relevant for health information system architects. The potential of a system to continuously evolve and to be effectively adapted to changing needs may be more important than sophisticated but hard-coded HIS functionality. More work will focus on HIS software design and on software engineering. Methods and tools are needed for quick and robust adaptation of systems to health care processes and changing requirements.

Design of a Workstation by a Cognitive Approach

PubMed Central

Jaspers, MWM; Steen, T.; Geelen, M.; van den Bos, C.

2001-01-01

To ensure ultimate acceptance of computer systems that are easy to use, provide the desired functionality and fits into users work practices requires the use of improved methods for system design and evaluation. Both designing and evaluating workstations that link up smoothly with daily routine of physicians' work requires a thorough understanding of their working practices. The application of methods from cognitive science may contribute to a thorough understanding of the activities involved in medical information processing. We used cognitive task analysis in designing a physicians' workstation, which seems a promising method to ensure that the system meets the user needs.

Interprocess Communication in Highly Distributed Systems - A Workshop Report - 20 to 22, November 1978.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-12-01

Links between processes can be aLlocated strictLy to controL functions. In fact, the degree of separation of control and data is an important research is...delays or Loss of control messages. Cognoscienti agree that message-passing IPC schemes are equivalent in "power" to schemes which employ shared...THEORETICAL WORK Page 55 SECTION 6 THEORETICAL WORK 6.1 WORKING GRUP JIM REP.OR STRUCTURE of Discussion: Distributed system without central (or any) control

Effective scheme for partitioning covalent bonds in density-functional embedding theory: From molecules to extended covalent systems.

PubMed

Huang, Chen; Muñoz-García, Ana Belén; Pavone, Michele

2016-12-28

Density-functional embedding theory provides a general way to perform multi-physics quantum mechanics simulations of large-scale materials by dividing the total system's electron density into a cluster's density and its environment's density. It is then possible to compute the accurate local electronic structures and energetics of the embedded cluster with high-level methods, meanwhile retaining a low-level description of the environment. The prerequisite step in the density-functional embedding theory is the cluster definition. In covalent systems, cutting across the covalent bonds that connect the cluster and its environment leads to dangling bonds (unpaired electrons). These represent a major obstacle for the application of density-functional embedding theory to study extended covalent systems. In this work, we developed a simple scheme to define the cluster in covalent systems. Instead of cutting covalent bonds, we directly split the boundary atoms for maintaining the valency of the cluster. With this new covalent embedding scheme, we compute the dehydrogenation energies of several different molecules, as well as the binding energy of a cobalt atom on graphene. Well localized cluster densities are observed, which can facilitate the use of localized basis sets in high-level calculations. The results are found to converge faster with the embedding method than the other multi-physics approach ONIOM. This work paves the way to perform the density-functional embedding simulations of heterogeneous systems in which different types of chemical bonds are present.

Design and experiment of a neural signal detection using a FES driving system.

PubMed

Zonghao, Huang; Zhigong, Wang; Xiaoying, Lu; Wenyuan, Li; Xiaoyan, Shen; Xintai, Zhao; Shushan, Xie; Haixian, Pan; Cunliang, Zhu

2010-01-01

The channel bridging, signal regenerating, and functional rebuilding of injured nerves is one of the most important issues in life science research. In recent years, some progresses in the research area have been made in repairing injured nerves with microelectronic neural bridge. Based on the previous work, this paper presents a neural signal detection and functional electrical stimulation (FES) driving system with using high performance operational amplifiers, which has been realized. The experimental results show that the designed system meets requirements. In animal experiments, sciatic nerve signal detection, regeneration and function rebuilding between two toads have been accomplished successfully by using the designed system.

Development of Entry-Level Competence Tests: A Strategy for Evaluation of Vocational Education Training Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schutte, Marc; Spottl, Georg

2011-01-01

Developing countries such as Malaysia and Oman have recently established occupational standards based on core work processes (functional clusters of work objects, activities and performance requirements), to which competencies (performance determinants) can be linked. While the development of work-process-based occupational standards is supposed…

Flexible endoscopes: structure and function: the endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography elevator system.

PubMed

Holland, Pat; Shoop, Nancy M

2002-01-01

Flexible endoscopes are complex medical instruments that are easily damaged. In order to maintain the flexible endoscope in optimum working condition, the user must have a thorough understanding of the structure and function of the instrument. This is the fourth in a series of articles presenting an in-depth look at the care and handling of the flexible endoscope. The first three articles discussed the air-water system, the suction channel system, and the mechanical system. This article will focus specifically on the endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography elevator system.

Functional structure and dynamics of the human nervous system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lawrence, J. A.

1981-01-01

The status of an effort to define the directions needed to take in extending pilot models is reported. These models are needed to perform closed-loop (man-in-the-loop) feedback flight control system designs and to develop cockpit display requirements. The approach taken is to develop a hypothetical working model of the human nervous system by reviewing the current literature in neurology and psychology and to develop a computer model of this hypothetical working model.

Program Manager: Journal of the Defense Systems Management College. Volume 19, Number 1, January-February 1990

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-02-01

proposal to the HQ USAF than optimum communication be- While the report indicated that this recommended a long-range, integrated tween the user and the...SRA), conduct of The three functional Working Integrated logistics program plan- tradeoff studies, and development of Groups are separated into the...as well * INTEGRATION as a rapid retargeting capability. V. SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS Working Conditions At the same time, SAC realized that VI. SYSTEM

Application of Density Functional Theory to Systems Containing Metal Atoms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauschlicher, Charles W., Jr.

2006-01-01

The accuracy of density functional theory (DFT) for problems involving metal atoms is considered. The DFT results are compared with experiment as well as results obtained using the coupled cluster approach. The comparisons include geometries, frequencies, and bond energies. The systems considered include MO2, M(OH)+n, MNO+, and MCO+2. The DFT works well for frequencies and geometries, even in case with symmetry breaking; however, some examples have been found where the symmetry breaking is quite severe and the DFT methods do not work well. The calculation of bond energies is more difficult and examples of successes as well as failures of DFT will be given.

Advanced information processing system: Input/output system services

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Masotto, Tom; Alger, Linda

1989-01-01

The functional requirements and detailed specifications for the Input/Output (I/O) Systems Services of the Advanced Information Processing System (AIPS) are discussed. The introductory section is provided to outline the overall architecture and functional requirements of the AIPS system. Section 1.1 gives a brief overview of the AIPS architecture as well as a detailed description of the AIPS fault tolerant network architecture, while section 1.2 provides an introduction to the AIPS systems software. Sections 2 and 3 describe the functional requirements and design and detailed specifications of the I/O User Interface and Communications Management modules of the I/O System Services, respectively. Section 4 illustrates the use of the I/O System Services, while Section 5 concludes with a summary of results and suggestions for future work in this area.

Occipital cortex of blind individuals is functionally coupled with executive control areas of frontal cortex.

PubMed

Deen, Ben; Saxe, Rebecca; Bedny, Marina

2015-08-01

In congenital blindness, the occipital cortex responds to a range of nonvisual inputs, including tactile, auditory, and linguistic stimuli. Are these changes in functional responses to stimuli accompanied by altered interactions with nonvisual functional networks? To answer this question, we introduce a data-driven method that searches across cortex for functional connectivity differences across groups. Replicating prior work, we find increased fronto-occipital functional connectivity in congenitally blind relative to blindfolded sighted participants. We demonstrate that this heightened connectivity extends over most of occipital cortex but is specific to a subset of regions in the inferior, dorsal, and medial frontal lobe. To assess the functional profile of these frontal areas, we used an n-back working memory task and a sentence comprehension task. We find that, among prefrontal areas with overconnectivity to occipital cortex, one left inferior frontal region responds to language over music. By contrast, the majority of these regions responded to working memory load but not language. These results suggest that in blindness occipital cortex interacts more with working memory systems and raise new questions about the function and mechanism of occipital plasticity.

Towards a Functionally-Formed Air Traffic System-of-Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Conway, Sheila R.; Consiglio, Maria C.

2005-01-01

Incremental improvements to the national aviation infrastructure have not resulted in sufficient increases in capacity and flexibility to meet emerging demand. Unfortunately, revolutionary changes capable of substantial and rapid increases in capacity have proven elusive. Moreover, significant changes have been difficult to implement, and the operational consequences of such change, difficult to predict due to the system s complexity. Some research suggests redistributing air traffic control functions through the system, but this work has largely been dismissed out of hand, accused of being impractical. However, the case for functionally-based reorganization of form can be made from a theoretical, systems perspective. This paper investigates Air Traffic Management functions and their intrinsic biases towards centralized/distributed operations, grounded in systems engineering and information technology theories. Application of these concepts to a small airport operations design is discussed. From this groundwork, a robust, scalable system transformation plan may be made in light of uncertain demand.

[Development of a medical equipment support information system based on PDF portable document].

PubMed

Cheng, Jiangbo; Wang, Weidong

2010-07-01

According to the organizational structure and management system of the hospital medical engineering support, integrate medical engineering support workflow to ensure the medical engineering data effectively, accurately and comprehensively collected and kept in electronic archives. Analyse workflow of the medical, equipment support work and record all work processes by the portable electronic document. Using XML middleware technology and SQL Server database, complete process management, data calculation, submission, storage and other functions. The practical application shows that the medical equipment support information system optimizes the existing work process, standardized and digital, automatic and efficient orderly and controllable. The medical equipment support information system based on portable electronic document can effectively optimize and improve hospital medical engineering support work, improve performance, reduce costs, and provide full and accurate digital data

General Path-Integral Successive-Collision Solution of the Bounded Dynamic Multi-Swarm Problem.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-09-23

coefficients (i.e., moments of the distribution functions), and/or (il) fnding the distribution functions themselves. The present work is concerned with the...collisions since their first appearance in the system. By definition, a swarm particle sufers a *generalized collision" either when it collides with a...studies6-rand the present work have contributed to- wards making the path-integral successive-collision method a practicable tool of transport theory

CONSIDERATIONS FOR FAILURE PREVENTION IN AEROSPACE ELECTRICAL POWER SYSTEMS UTILIZING HIGHER VOLTAGES

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-07-01

work , the guideline document (1) provides a basis for identifying high voltage design risks, (2) defines areas of concern as a function of environment ... work , the guideline document 1) provides a basis for identifying high voltage design risks, 2) defines areas of concern as a function of environment ...pressures (y-axis - breakdown voltage [volts-peak]) As an example of the impact of the aerospace environment , consider the calculation of the safe

ADHD Subtypes and Co-Occurring Anxiety, Depression, and Oppositional-Defiant Disorder: Differences in Gordon Diagnostic System and Wechsler Working Memory and Processing Speed Index Scores

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mayes, Susan Dickerson; Calhoun, Susan L.; Chase, Gary A.; Mink, Danielle M.; Stagg, Ryan E.

2009-01-01

Objective: Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children Freedom-from-Distractibility/Working Memory Index (FDI/WMI), Processing Speed Index (PSI), and Gordon Diagnostic System (GDS) scores in ADHD children were examined as a function of subtype and coexisting anxiety, depression, and oppositional-defiant disorder. Method: Participants were 587…

Self-Interaction Error in Density Functional Theory: An Appraisal.

PubMed

Bao, Junwei Lucas; Gagliardi, Laura; Truhlar, Donald G

2018-05-03

Self-interaction error (SIE) is considered to be one of the major sources of error in most approximate exchange-correlation functionals for Kohn-Sham density-functional theory (KS-DFT), and it is large with all local exchange-correlation functionals and with some hybrid functionals. In this work, we consider systems conventionally considered to be dominated by SIE. For these systems, we demonstrate that by using multiconfiguration pair-density functional theory (MC-PDFT), the error of a translated local density-functional approximation is significantly reduced (by a factor of 3) when using an MCSCF density and on-top density, as compared to using KS-DFT with the parent functional; the error in MC-PDFT with local on-top functionals is even lower than the error in some popular KS-DFT hybrid functionals. Density-functional theory, either in MC-PDFT form with local on-top functionals or in KS-DFT form with some functionals having 50% or more nonlocal exchange, has smaller errors for SIE-prone systems than does CASSCF, which has no SIE.

Incorporating injured employee outcomes into physical and occupational therapists' practice: a controlled trial of the Worker-Based Outcomes Assessment System.

PubMed

Ross, Robert H; Callas, Peter W; Sargent, Jesse Q; Amick, Benjamin C; Rooney, Ted

2006-12-01

Work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) remain costly. The Worker-Based Outcomes Assessment System (WBOAS) is an injury treatment improvement tool. Its purpose is to increase treatment effectiveness and decrease the cost of care delivered in Occupational Health Service clinics. The study used a non-randomized (parallel cohort) control trial design to test the effects on injured employee outcomes of augmenting the standard care delivered by physical and occupational therapists (PT/OTs) with the WBOAS. The WBOAS works by putting patient-reported functional health status, pain symptom, and work role performance outcomes data into the hands of PT/OTs and their patients. Test clinic therapists were trained to incorporate WBOAS trends data into standard practice. Control clinic therapists delivered standard care alone. WBOAS-augmented PT/OT care did improve (p< or =.05) physical functioning and new injury/re-injury avoidance and, on these same dimensions, cost-adjusted outcome. It did not improve (p>.05) mental health or pain symptoms or return-to-work or stay-at-work success nor, on these same dimensions, cost-adjusted outcome. Training PT/OTs to incorporate patient-reported health status, pain symptom, and work role performance outcomes trends data into standard practice does appear to improve treatment effectiveness and cost on some (e.g. physical functioning) but not other (e.g. mental health, pain symptoms) outcomes.

Modulation transfer function of a triangular pixel array detector.

PubMed

Karimzadeh, Ayatollah

2014-07-01

The modulation transfer function (MTF) is the main parameter that is used to evaluate image quality in electro-optical systems. Detector sampling MTF in most electro-optical systems determines the cutoff frequency of the system. The MTF of the detector depends on its pixel shape. In this work, we calculated the MTF of a detector with an equilateral triangular pixel shape. Some new results were found in deriving the MTF for the equilateral triangular pixel shape.

Impacts of Hospitals' Innovativeness on Information System Outsourcing Decisions

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Objectives The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of hospitals' innovativeness on outsourcing decision-making regarding four information system (IS) functions, namely, software programs, network maintenance, hardware systems, and PC/printer maintenance. Methods Using the 2011 roster of the Korean Hospital Association, this study selected 311 general hospitals as a study population. After identifying the managers who were in charge of outsourcing, this study administered questionnaires. A total of 103 hospitals responded. Results Of the responding hospitals, 55.34% outsourced at least one IS function, whereas 88.35% outsourced at least one managerial function. IS outsourcing was motivated by the need for outside experts, but other managerial functions were outsourced for cost savings. Innovative and early adopter hospitals were 4.52 and 4.91 times more likely to outsource IS functions related with work processes (i.e., software and network maintenance) than early and late majority hospitals, respectively. IT outsourcing effectiveness significantly influenced the outsourcing decisions regarding four IS functions. Hospitals that had perceived more risks of outsourcing significantly preferred non-outsourcing on their hardware systems, but the risks of outsourcing were not significant for outsourcing decisions regarding the other IS functions. Hospitals' innovativeness also significantly explained the quantity of innovation adoptions. Innovative and early adopter hospitals did more outsourcing than early and late majority hospitals. Conclusions Hospitals' innovativeness influences decision-making regarding outsourcing. Innovative hospitals are more likely to outsource their work-process-related IS functions. Thus, organizational traits, especially hospitals' innovativeness, should be considered as a key success factor for IS management. PMID:24872912

Providing Effective Access to Shared Resources: A COIN Approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Airiau, Stephane; Wolpert, David H.

2004-01-01

Managers of systems of shared resources typically have many separate goals. Examples are efficient utilization of the resources among its users and ensuring no user s satisfaction in the system falls below a preset minimal level. Since such goals will usually conflict with one another, either implicitly or explicitly the manager must determine the relative importance of the goals, encapsulating that into an overall utility function rating the possible behaviors of the entire system. Here we demonstrate a distributed, robust, and adaptive way to optimize that overall function. Our approach is to interpose adaptive agents between each user and the system, where each such agent is working to maximize its own private utility function. In turn, each such agent's function should be both relatively easy for the agent to learn to optimize, and "aligned" with the overall utility function of the system manager - an overall function that is based on but in general different from the satisfaction functions of the individual users. To ensure this we enhance the Collective INtelligence (COIN) framework to incorporate user satisfaction functions in the overall utility function of the system manager and accordingly in the associated private utility functions assigned to the users agents. We present experimental evaluations of different COIN-based private utility functions and demonstrate that those COIN-based functions outperform some natural alternatives.

Providing Effective Access to Shared Resources: A COIN Approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Airiau, Stephane; Wolpert, David H.; Sen, Sandip; Tumer, Kagan

2003-01-01

Managers of systems of shared resources typically have many separate goals. Examples are efficient utilization of the resources among its users and ensuring no user's satisfaction in the system falls below a preset minimal level. Since such goals will usually conflict with one another, either implicitly or explicitly the manager must determine the relative importance of the goals, encapsulating that into an overall utility function rating the possible behaviors of the entire system. Here we demonstrate a distributed, robust, and adaptive way to optimize that overall function. Our approach is to interpose adaptive agents between each user and the system, where each such agent is working to maximize its own private utility function. In turn, each such agent's function should be both relatively easy for the agent to learn to optimize, and 'aligned' with the overall utility function of the system manager - an overall function that is based on but in general different from the satisfaction functions of the individual users. To ensure this we enhance the COllective INtelligence (COIN) framework to incorporate user satisfaction functions in the overall utility function of the system manager and accordingly in the associated private utility functions assigned to the users agents. We present experimental evaluations of different COIN-based private utility functions and demonstrate that those COIN-based functions outperform some natural alternatives.

Human-Automation Allocations for Current Robotic Space Operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Marquez, Jessica J.; Chang, Mai L.; Beard, Bettina L.; Kim, Yun Kyung; Karasinski, John A.

2018-01-01

Within the Human Research Program, one risk delineates the uncertainty surrounding crew working with automation and robotics in spaceflight. The Risk of Inadequate Design of Human and Automation/Robotic Integration (HARI) is concerned with the detrimental effects on crew performance due to ineffective user interfaces, system designs and/or functional task allocation, potentially compromising mission success and safety. Risk arises because we have limited experience with complex automation and robotics. One key gap within HARI, is the gap related to functional allocation. The gap states: We need to evaluate, develop, and validate methods and guidelines for identifying human-automation/robot task information needs, function allocation, and team composition for future long duration, long distance space missions. Allocations determine the human-system performance as it identifies the functions and performance levels required by the automation/robotic system, and in turn, what work the crew is expected to perform and the necessary human performance requirements. Allocations must take into account each of the human, automation, and robotic systems capabilities and limitations. Some functions may be intuitively assigned to the human versus the robot, but to optimize efficiency and effectiveness, purposeful role assignments will be required. The role of automation and robotics will significantly change in future exploration missions, particularly as crew becomes more autonomous from ground controllers. Thus, we must understand the suitability of existing function allocation methods within NASA as well as the existing allocations established by the few robotic systems that are operational in spaceflight. In order to evaluate future methods of robotic allocations, we must first benchmark the allocations and allocation methods that have been used. We will present 1) documentation of human-automation-robotic allocations in existing, operational spaceflight systems; and 2) To gather existing lessons learned and best practices in these role assignments, from spaceflight operational experience of crew and ground teams that may be used to guide development for future systems. NASA and other space agencies have operational spaceflight experience with two key Human-Automation-Robotic (HAR) systems: heavy lift robotic arms and planetary robotic explorers. Additionally, NASA has invested in high-fidelity rover systems that can carry crew, building beyond Apollo's lunar rover. The heavy lift robotic arms reviewed are: Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS), Japanese Remote Manipulator System (JEMRMS), and the European Robotic Arm (ERA, designed but not deployed in space). The robotic rover systems reviewed are: Mars Exploration Rovers, Mars Science Laboratory rover, and the high-fidelity K10 rovers. Much of the design and operational feedback for these systems have been communicated to flight controllers and robotic design teams. As part of the mitigating the HARI risk for future human spaceflight operations, we must document function allocations between robots and humans that have worked well in practice.

Multi-task functional MRI in multiple sclerosis patients without clinical disability.

PubMed

Colorado, René A; Shukla, Karan; Zhou, Yuxiang; Wolinsky, Jerry S; Narayana, Ponnada A

2012-01-02

While the majority of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) develop significant clinical disability, a subset experiences a disease course with minimal impairment even in the presence of significant apparent tissue damage on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in MS patients with low disability suggests that increased use of the cognitive control system may limit the clinical manifestation of the disease. The current fMRI studies tested the hypothesis that nondisabled MS patients show increased recruitment of cognitive control regions while performing sensory, motor and cognitive tasks. Twenty two patients with relapsing-remitting MS and an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of ≤1.5 and 23 matched healthy controls were recruited. Subjects underwent fMRI while observing flashing checkerboards, performing right or left hand movements, or executing the 2-back working memory task. Compared to control subjects, patients demonstrated increased activation of the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex during the performance of the working memory task. This pattern of functional recruitment also was observed during the performance of non-dominant hand movements. These results support the mounting evidence of increased functional recruitment of cognitive control regions in the working memory system of MS patients with low disability and provide new evidence for the role of increased cognitive control recruitment in the motor system. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Working Memory: Maintenance, Updating, and the Realization of Intentions

PubMed Central

Nyberg, Lars; Eriksson, Johan

2016-01-01

“Working memory” refers to a vast set of mnemonic processes and associated brain networks, relates to basic intellectual abilities, and underlies many real-world functions. Working-memory maintenance involves frontoparietal regions and distributed representational areas, and can be based on persistent activity in reentrant loops, synchronous oscillations, or changes in synaptic strength. Manipulation of content of working memory depends on the dorsofrontal cortex, and updating is realized by a frontostriatal ‘“gating” function. Goals and intentions are represented as cognitive and motivational contexts in the rostrofrontal cortex. Different working-memory networks are linked via associative reinforcement-learning mechanisms into a self-organizing system. Normal capacity variation, as well as working-memory deficits, can largely be accounted for by the effectiveness and integrity of the basal ganglia and dopaminergic neurotransmission. PMID:26637287

Transient stability enhancement of modern power grid using predictive Wide-Area Monitoring and Control

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yousefian, Reza

This dissertation presents a real-time Wide-Area Control (WAC) designed based on artificial intelligence for large scale modern power systems transient stability enhancement. The WAC using the measurements available from Phasor Measurement Units (PMUs) at generator buses, monitors the global oscillations in the system and optimally augments the local excitation system of the synchronous generators. The complexity of the power system stability problem along with uncertainties and nonlinearities makes the conventional modeling non-practical or inaccurate. In this work Reinforcement Learning (RL) algorithm on the benchmark of Neural Networks (NNs) is used to map the nonlinearities of the system in real-time. This method different from both the centralized and the decentralized control schemes, employs a number of semi-autonomous agents to collaborate with each other to perform optimal control theory well-suited for WAC applications. Also, to handle the delays in Wide-Area Monitoring (WAM) and adapt the RL toward the robust control design, Temporal Difference (TD) is proposed as a solver for RL problem or optimal cost function. However, the main drawback of such WAC design is that it is challenging to determine if an offline trained network is valid to assess the stability of the power system once the system is evolved to a different operating state or network topology. In order to address the generality issue of NNs, a value priority scheme is proposed in this work to design a hybrid linear and nonlinear controllers. The algorithm so-called supervised RL is based on mixture of experts, where it is initialized by linear controller and as the performance and identification of the RL controller improves in real-time switches to the other controller. This work also focuses on transient stability and develops Lyapunov energy functions for synchronous generators to monitor the stability stress of the system. Using such energies as a cost function guarantees the convergence toward optimal post-fault solutions. These energy functions are developed on inter-area oscillations of the system identified online with Prony analysis. Finally, this work investigates the impacts of renewable energy resources, in specific Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG)-based wind turbines, on power system transient stability and control. As the penetration of such resources is increased in transmission power system, neglecting the impacts of them will make the WAC design non-realistic. An energy function is proposed for DFIGs based on their dynamic performance in transient disturbances. Further, this energy is augmented to synchronous generators' energy as a global cost function, which is minimized by the WAC signals. We discuss the relative advantages and bottlenecks of each architecture and methodology using dynamic simulations of several test systems including a 2-area 8 bus system, IEEE 39 bus system, and IEEE 68 bus system in EMTP and real-time simulators. Being nonlinear-based, fast, accurate, and non-model based design, the proposed WAC system shows better transient and damping response when compared to conventional control schemes and local PSSs.

Simultaneous measurements of work function and H‒ density including caesiation of a converter surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cristofaro, S.; Friedl, R.; Fantz, U.

2017-08-01

Negative hydrogen ion sources rely on the surface conversion of neutral atomic hydrogen and positive hydrogen ions to H-. The efficiency of this process depends on the actual work function of the converter surface. By introducing caesium into the source the work function decreases, enhancing the negative ion yield. In order to study the impact of the work function on the H- surface production at similar conditions to the ones in ion sources for fusion devices like ITER and DEMO, fundamental investigations are performed in a flexible laboratory experiment. The work function of the converter surface can be absolutely measured by photoelectric effect, while a newly installed cavity ring-down spectroscopy system (CRDS) measures the H- density. The CRDS is firstly tested and characterized by investigations on H- volume production. Caesiation of a stainless steel sample is then performed in vacuum and the plasma effect on the Cs layer is investigated also for long plasma-on times. A minimum work function of (1.9±0.1) eV is reached after some minutes of plasma treatment, resulting in a reduction by a value of 0.8 eV compared to vacuum measurements. The H- density above the surface is (2.1±0.5)×1015 m-3. With further plasma exposure of the caesiated surface, the work function increases up to 3.75 eV, due to the impinging plasma particles which gradually remove the Cs layer. As a result, the H- density decreases by a factor of at least 2.

Hartree-Fock theory of the inhomogeneous electron gas at a jellium metal surface: Rigorous upper bounds to the surface energy and accurate work functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sahni, V.; Ma, C. Q.

1980-12-01

The inhomogeneous electron gas at a jellium metal surface is studied in the Hartree-Fock approximation by Kohn-Sham density functional theory. Rigorous upper bounds to the surface energy are derived by application of the Rayleigh-Ritz variational principle for the energy, the surface kinetic, electrostatic, and nonlocal exchange energy functionals being determined exactly for the accurate linear-potential model electronic wave functions. The densities obtained by the energy minimization constraint are then employed to determine work-function results via the variationally accurate "displaced-profile change-in-self-consistent-field" expression. The theoretical basis of this non-self-consistent procedure and its demonstrated accuracy for the fully correlated system (as treated within the local-density approximation for exchange and correlation) leads us to conclude these results for the surface energies and work functions to be essentially exact. Work-function values are also determined by the Koopmans'-theorem expression, both for these densities as well as for those obtained by satisfaction of the constraint set on the electrostatic potential by the Budd-Vannimenus theorem. The use of the Hartree-Fock results in the accurate estimation of correlation-effect contributions to these surface properties of the nonuniform electron gas is also indicated. In addition, the original work and approximations made by Bardeen in this attempt at a solution of the Hartree-Fock problem are briefly reviewed in order to contrast with the present work.

The research of the malfunction diagnosis and predictions system in the smart electric grid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yaqing; Zhang, Guoxing; Xu, Hongbing

2017-03-01

The Chinese smart electric grid constriction has been increasing with the technology development. However, the monitoring equipment and background system which should play important roles did not work as intended and restrict to the efficacy of the smart grid. In this essay, it has researched an intelligentized malfunction diagnosis and predictions system which could work with the existed monitoring equipment to function as whole energy monitoring, common malfunction diagnosis, faulted proactive judgment and automatically elimination.

Would Virchow be a systems biologist? A discourse on the philosophy of science with implications for pathological research.

PubMed

Stenzinger, Albrecht; Klauschen, Frederick; Wittschieber, Daniel; Weichert, Wilko; Denkert, Carsten; Dietel, Manfred; Roller, Claudio

2010-06-01

Research in pathology spans from merely descriptive work to functional studies, "-omics" approaches and, more recently, systems biology. The work presented here aims at placing pathological research into an epistemological context. Aided by Rudolf Virchow, we give an overview on the philosophy of science including the Wiener Kreis, Popper, Kuhn, Fleck and Rheinberger and demonstrate their implications for routine diagnostics and science in pathology. A focus is on the fields of "-omics" and systems pathology.

The Evaluation of Appropriateness of OMB Circular A-76 Studies on Revenue-Generating Functions in Defense Working Capital Fund Activities

DTIC Science & Technology

2002-12-01

E. ACTIVITY BASED COSTING (ABC) IN THE WORKING CAPITAL FUND ......................................29 F. UNIQUENESS OF DOD IN THE FREE MARKET ...FREE MARKET SYSTEM ECONOMICS AND WORKING CAPITAL FUNDS .....................................35 B. A-76 AND DEFENSE WORKING CAPITAL FUND DIRECT...Capital Fund applies free market economics and how the foundational theories of the Defense Working Capital Fund and the A-76 study parallel each

Shifting Perspectives and Practice to the Positive Function

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, Nate

2011-01-01

School psychologists are often in the position of seeing a situation, a system, or a common strategy for working with students that might be approached from a different perspective. Knowing this themselves is rarely good enough, though; they work in teams and as consultants to teachers and parents who generally work most closely with the students.…

A Conceptual Framework Examining the Antecedents of Career Decisiveness Using Motivation Systems Theory

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chatterjee, Srabasti

2013-01-01

An extensive body of vocational research has been dedicated to the topic of career-decision making behavior. Work is integral to human functioning, and all psychologists need to understand the role of work in people's lives. Understanding factors influencing work choices and helping individuals effectively make career decisions is the focus of…

Hanford business structure for HANDI 2000 business management system

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

Wilson, D.

The Hanford Business Structure integrates the project`s technical, schedule, and cost baselines; implements the use of a standard code of accounts; and streamlines performance reporting and cost collection. Technical requirements drive the technical functions and come from the RDD 100 database. The functions will be identified in the P3 scheduling system and also in the PeopleSoft system. Projects will break their work down from the technical requirements in the P3 schedules. When the level at which they want to track cost via the code of accounts is reached, a Project ID will be generated in the PeopleSoft system. P3 maymore » carry more detailed schedules below the Project ID level. The standard code of accounts will identify discrete work activities done across the site and various projects. They will include direct and overhead type work scopes. Activities in P3 will roll up to this standard code of accounts. The field that will be used to record this in PeopleSoft is ``Activity``. In Passport it is a user-defined field. It will have to be added to other feeder systems. Project ID and code of accounts are required fields on all cost records.« less

Transient times in linear metabolic pathways under constant affinity constraints.

PubMed

Lloréns, M; Nuño, J C; Montero, F

1997-10-15

In the early seventies, Easterby began the analytical study of transition times for linear reaction schemes [Easterby (1973) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 293, 552-558]. In this pioneer work and in subsequent papers, a state function (the transient time) was used to measure the period before the stationary state, for systems constrained to work under both constant and variable input flux, was reached. Despite the undoubted usefulness of this quantity to describe the time-dependent features of these kinds of systems, its application to the study of chemical reactions under other constraints is questionable. In the present work, a generalization of these magnitudes to linear metabolic pathways functioning under a constant-affinity constraint is carried out. It is proved that classical definitions of transient times do not reflect the actual properties of the transition to the steady state in systems evolving under this restriction. Alternatively, a more adequate framework for interpretation of the transient times for systems with both constant and variable input flux is suggested. Within this context, new definitions that reflect more accurately the transient characteristics of constant affinity systems are stated. Finally, the meaning of these transient times is discussed.

Contingency Analysis Post-Processing With Advanced Computing and Visualization

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

Chen, Yousu; Glaesemann, Kurt; Fitzhenry, Erin

Contingency analysis is a critical function widely used in energy management systems to assess the impact of power system component failures. Its outputs are important for power system operation for improved situational awareness, power system planning studies, and power market operations. With the increased complexity of power system modeling and simulation caused by increased energy production and demand, the penetration of renewable energy and fast deployment of smart grid devices, and the trend of operating grids closer to their capacity for better efficiency, more and more contingencies must be executed and analyzed quickly in order to ensure grid reliability andmore » accuracy for the power market. Currently, many researchers have proposed different techniques to accelerate the computational speed of contingency analysis, but not much work has been published on how to post-process the large amount of contingency outputs quickly. This paper proposes a parallel post-processing function that can analyze contingency analysis outputs faster and display them in a web-based visualization tool to help power engineers improve their work efficiency by fast information digestion. Case studies using an ESCA-60 bus system and a WECC planning system are presented to demonstrate the functionality of the parallel post-processing technique and the web-based visualization tool.« less

Safety and fitness electronic records (SAFER) system : logical architecture document : working draft

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-01-31

This Logical Architecture Document includes the products developed during the functional analysis of the Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System. This document, along with the companion Operational Concept and Physical Architecture Docum...

Workstation Designs for a Cis-Lunar Deep Space Habitat

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Howe, A. Scott

2014-01-01

Using the International Standard Payload Rack (ISPR) system, a suite of workstations required for deep space missions have been proposed to fill out habitation functions in an International Space Station (ISS) derived Cis-lunar Deep Space Habitat. This paper introduces the functional layout of the Cis-lunar habitat design, and describes conceptual designs for modular deployable work surfaces, General Maintenance Workstation (GMWS), In-Space Manufacturing Workstation (ISMW), Intra-Vehicular Activity Telerobotics Work Station (IVA-TRWS), and Galley / Wardroom.

Design and implementation of Ada programs to facilitate automated testing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dean, Jack; Fox, Barry; Oropeza, Michael

1991-01-01

An automated method utilized to test the software components of COMPASS, an interactive computer aided scheduling system, is presented. Each package of this system introduces a private type, and works to construct instances of that type, along with read and write routines for that type. Generic procedures that can generate test drivers for these functions are given and show how the test drivers can read from a test data file the functions to call, the arguments for those functions, what the anticipated result should be, and whether an exception should be raised for the function given the arguments.

Generalized Reduction Formula for Discrete Wigner Functions of Multiqubit Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Srinivasan, K.; Raghavan, G.

2018-03-01

Density matrices and Discrete Wigner Functions are equally valid representations of multiqubit quantum states. For density matrices, the partial trace operation is used to obtain the quantum state of subsystems, but an analogous prescription is not available for discrete Wigner Functions. Further, the discrete Wigner function corresponding to a density matrix is not unique but depends on the choice of the quantum net used for its reconstruction. In the present work, we derive a reduction formula for discrete Wigner functions of a general multiqubit state which works for arbitrary quantum nets. These results would be useful for the analysis and classification of entangled states and the study of decoherence purely in a discrete phase space setting and also in applications to quantum computing.

Mission Operations and Data Systems Directorate's operational/development network (MODNET) at Goddard Space Flight Center

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1988-01-01

A brief, informal narrative is provided that summarizes the results of all work accomplished during the period of the contract; June 1, 1987 through September 30, 1988; in support of Mission Operations and Data Systems Directorate's Operational Development Network (MODNET). It includes descriptions of work performed in each functional area and recommendations and conclusions based on the experience and results obtained.

A study of the role of pyrotechnic systems on the space shuttle program

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lake, E. R.; Thompson, S. J.; Drexelius, V. W.

1973-01-01

Pyrotechnic systems, high burn rate propellant and explosive-actuated mechanisms, have been used extensively in aerospace vehicles to perform a variety of work functions, including crew escape, staging, deployment and destruction. Pyrotechnic system principles are described in this report along with their applications on typical military fighter aircraft, Mercury, Gemini, Apollo, and a representative unmanned spacecraft. To consider the possible pyrotechnic applications on the space shuttle the mechanical functions on a large commercial aircraft, similar in scale to the shuttle orbiter, were reviewed. Many potential applications exist for pyrotechnic system on the space shuttle, both in conventional short-duration functions and in longer duration and/or repetitive type gas generators.

[Knowledge management system for laboratory work and clinical decision support].

PubMed

Inada, Masanori; Sato, Mayumi; Yoneyama, Akiko

2011-05-01

This paper discusses a knowledge management system for clinical laboratories. In the clinical laboratory of Toranomon Hospital, we receive about 20 questions relevant to laboratory tests per day from medical doctors or co-medical staff. These questions mostly involve the essence to appropriately accomplish laboratory tests. We have to answer them carefully and suitably because an incorrect answer may cause a medical accident. Up to now, no method has been in place to achieve a rapid response and standardized answers. For this reason, the laboratory staff have responded to various questions based on their individual knowledge. We began to develop a knowledge management system to promote the knowledge of staff working for the laboratory. This system is a type of knowledge base for assisting the work, such as inquiry management, laboratory consultation, process management, and clinical support. It consists of several functions: guiding laboratory test information, managing inquiries from medical staff, reporting results of patient consultation, distributing laboratory staffs notes, and recording guidelines for laboratory medicine. The laboratory test information guide has 2,000 records of medical test information registered in the database with flexible retrieval. The inquiry management tool provides a methos to record all questions, answer easily, and retrieve cases. It helps staff to respond appropriately in a short period of time. The consulting report system treats patients' claims regarding medical tests. The laboratory staffs notes enter a file management system so they can be accessed to aid in clinical support. Knowledge sharing using this function can achieve the transition from individual to organizational learning. Storing guidelines for laboratory medicine will support EBM. Finally, it is expected that this system will support intellectual activity concerning laboratory work and contribute to the practice of knowledge management for clinical work support.

Chemiresistive Graphene Sensors for Ammonia Detection.

PubMed

Mackin, Charles; Schroeder, Vera; Zurutuza, Amaia; Su, Cong; Kong, Jing; Swager, Timothy M; Palacios, Tomás

2018-05-09

The primary objective of this work is to demonstrate a novel sensor system as a convenient vehicle for scaled-up repeatability and the kinetic analysis of a pixelated testbed. This work presents a sensor system capable of measuring hundreds of functionalized graphene sensors in a rapid and convenient fashion. The sensor system makes use of a novel array architecture requiring only one sensor per pixel and no selector transistor. The sensor system is employed specifically for the evaluation of Co(tpfpp)ClO 4 functionalization of graphene sensors for the detection of ammonia as an extension of previous work. Co(tpfpp)ClO 4 treated graphene sensors were found to provide 4-fold increased ammonia sensitivity over pristine graphene sensors. Sensors were also found to exhibit excellent selectivity over interfering compounds such as water and common organic solvents. The ability to monitor a large sensor array with 160 pixels provides insights into performance variations and reproducibility-critical factors in the development of practical sensor systems. All sensors exhibit the same linearly related responses with variations in response exhibiting Gaussian distributions, a key finding for variation modeling and quality engineering purposes. The mean correlation coefficient between sensor responses was found to be 0.999 indicating highly consistent sensor responses and excellent reproducibility of Co(tpfpp)ClO 4 functionalization. A detailed kinetic model is developed to describe sensor response profiles. The model consists of two adsorption mechanisms-one reversible and one irreversible-and is shown capable of fitting experimental data with a mean percent error of 0.01%.

Programmable chemical reaction networks: emulating regulatory functions in living cells using a bottom-up approach.

PubMed

van Roekel, Hendrik W H; Rosier, Bas J H M; Meijer, Lenny H H; Hilbers, Peter A J; Markvoort, Albert J; Huck, Wilhelm T S; de Greef, Tom F A

2015-11-07

Living cells are able to produce a wide variety of biological responses when subjected to biochemical stimuli. It has become apparent that these biological responses are regulated by complex chemical reaction networks (CRNs). Unravelling the function of these circuits is a key topic of both systems biology and synthetic biology. Recent progress at the interface of chemistry and biology together with the realisation that current experimental tools are insufficient to quantitatively understand the molecular logic of pathways inside living cells has triggered renewed interest in the bottom-up development of CRNs. This builds upon earlier work of physical chemists who extensively studied inorganic CRNs and showed how a system of chemical reactions can give rise to complex spatiotemporal responses such as oscillations and pattern formation. Using purified biochemical components, in vitro synthetic biologists have started to engineer simplified model systems with the goal of mimicking biological responses of intracellular circuits. Emulation and reconstruction of system-level properties of intracellular networks using simplified circuits are able to reveal key design principles and molecular programs that underlie the biological function of interest. In this Tutorial Review, we present an accessible overview of this emerging field starting with key studies on inorganic CRNs followed by a discussion of recent work involving purified biochemical components. Finally, we review recent work showing the versatility of programmable biochemical reaction networks (BRNs) in analytical and diagnostic applications.

Orbit Tomography: A Method for Determining the Population of Individual Fast-ion Orbits from Experimental Measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stagner, L.; Heidbrink, W. W.

2017-10-01

Due to the complicated nature of the fast-ion distribution function, diagnostic velocity-space weight functions are used to analyze experimental data. In a technique known as Velocity-space Tomography (VST), velocity-space weight functions are combined with experimental measurements to create a system of linear equations that can be solved. However, VST (which by definition ignores spatial dependencies) is restricted, both by the accuracy of its forward model and also by the availability of spatially overlapping diagnostics. In this work we extend velocity-space weight functions to a full 6D generalized coordinate system and then show how to reduce them to a 3D orbit-space without loss of generality using an action-angle formulation. Furthermore, we show how diagnostic orbit-weight functions can be used to infer the full fast-ion distribution function, i.e. Orbit Tomography. Examples of orbit weights functions for different diagnostics and reconstructions of fast-ion distributions are shown for DIII-D experiments. This work was supported by the U.S. Department of Energy under DE-AC02-09CH11466 and DE-FC02-04ER54698.

Doctors' use of electronic medical records systems in hospitals: cross sectional survey

PubMed Central

Lærum, Hallvard; Ellingsen, Gunnar; Faxvaag, Arild

2001-01-01

Objectives To compare the use of three electronic medical records systems by doctors in Norwegian hospitals for general clinical tasks. Design Cross sectional questionnaire survey. Semistructured telephone interviews with key staff in information technology in each hospital for details of local implementation of the systems. Setting 32 hospital units in 19 Norwegian hospitals with electronic medical records systems. Participants 227 (72%) of 314 hospital doctors responded, equally distributed between the three electronic medical records systems. Main outcome measures Proportion of respondents who used the electronic system, calculated for each of 23 tasks; difference in proportions of users of different systems when functionality of systems was similar. Results Most tasks listed in the questionnaire (15/23) were generally covered with implemented functions in the electronic medical records systems. However, the systems were used for only 2-7 of the tasks, mainly associated with reading patient data. Respondents showed significant differences in frequency of use of the different systems for four tasks for which the systems offered equivalent functionality. The respondents scored highly in computer literacy (72.2/100), and computer use showed no correlation with respondents' age, sex, or work position. User satisfaction scores were generally positive (67.2/100), with some difference between the systems. Conclusions Doctors used electronic medical records systems for far fewer tasks than the systems supported. What is already known on this topicElectronic information systems in health care have not undergone systematic evaluation, and few comparisons between electronic medical records systems have been madeGiven the information intensive nature of clinical work, electronic medical records systems should be of help to doctors for most clinical tasksWhat this study addsDoctors in Norwegian hospitals reported a low level of use of all electronic medical records systemsThe systems were mainly used for reading patient data, and doctors used the systems for less than half of the tasks for which the systems were functionalAnalyses of actual use of electronic medical records provide more information than user satisfaction or functionality of such records systems PMID:11739222

Participatory ergonomics for psychological factors evaluation in work system design.

PubMed

Wang, Lingyan; Lau, Henry Y K

2012-01-01

It is a well recognized understanding that workers whose voice needs to be heard should be actively encouraged as full participants and involved in the early design stages of new ergonomic work system which encompass the development and implementation of new tools, workplaces, technologies or organizations. This paper presents a novel participatory strategy to evaluate three key psychological factors which are respectively mental fatigue, spiritual stress, and emotional satisfaction in work system design based on a modified version of Participatory Ergonomics (PE). In specific, it integrates a PE technique with a formulation view by combining the parallel development of PE strategies, frameworks and functions throughout the coverage of the entire work system design process, so as to bridge the gap between qualitative and quantitative analysis of psychological factors which can cause adverse or advantageous effects on worker's physiological and behavioral performance.

HVAC System Automatic Controls and Indoor Air Quality in Schools. Technical Bulletin.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wheeler, Arthur E.

Fans, motors, coils, and other control components enable a heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system to function smoothly. An explanation of these control components and how they make school HVAC systems work is provided. Different systems may be compared by counting the number of controlled devices that are required. Control…

Impact of Family Support Systems on Children's Academic and Social Functioning after Parental Divorce.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Guidubaldi, John; Cleminshaw, Helen

To determine whether support systems ameliorated the impact of divorce on family stress and child adjustment, the present study examined the availability to divorced families of various support systems, including the extended family, church, work, and community groups. Specifically, the study addressed the impact of parental support systems on…

Compact Embedded Wireless Sensor-Based Monitoring of Concrete Curing.

PubMed

Cabezas, Joaquín; Sánchez-Rodríguez, Trinidad; Gómez-Galán, Juan Antonio; Cifuentes, Héctor; González Carvajal, Ramón

2018-03-15

This work presents the design, construction and testing of a new embedded sensor system for monitoring concrete curing. A specific mote has been implemented to withstand the aggressive environment without affecting the measured variables. The system also includes a real-time monitoring application operating from a remote computer placed in a central location. The testing was done in two phases: the first in the laboratory, to validate the functional requirements of the developed devices; and the second on civil works to evaluate the functional features of the devices, such as range, robustness and flexibility. The devices were successfully implemented resulting in a low cost, highly reliable, compact and non-destructive solution.

Compact Embedded Wireless Sensor-Based Monitoring of Concrete Curing

PubMed Central

Cabezas, Joaquín; Sánchez-Rodríguez, Trinidad; González Carvajal, Ramón

2018-01-01

This work presents the design, construction and testing of a new embedded sensor system for monitoring concrete curing. A specific mote has been implemented to withstand the aggressive environment without affecting the measured variables. The system also includes a real-time monitoring application operating from a remote computer placed in a central location. The testing was done in two phases: the first in the laboratory, to validate the functional requirements of the developed devices; and the second on civil works to evaluate the functional features of the devices, such as range, robustness and flexibility. The devices were successfully implemented resulting in a low cost, highly reliable, compact and non-destructive solution. PMID:29543765

Application of Density Functional Theory to Systems Containing Metal Atoms

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bauschlicher, Charles W., Jr.; Arnold, James O. (Technical Monitor)

1997-01-01

The accuracy of density functional theory (DFT) for problems involving metal atoms is considered. The DFT results are compared with experiment as well as results obtained using the coupled cluster approach. The comparisons include geometries, frequencies, and bond energies. The systems considered include MO2, M(OH)+(sub n), MNO+, and MCO+(sub 2). The DFT works well for frequencies and geometries, even in cases with symmetry breaking; however, some examples have been found where the symmetry breaking is quite severe and the DFT methods do not work well. The calculation of bond energies is more difficult and examples of the successes as well as failures of DFT will be given.

Personalized Integrated Educational System: Technology Functions for the Learner- Centered Paradigm of Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reigeluth, Charles M.; Aslan, Sinem; Chen, Zengguan; Dutta, Pratima; Huh, Yeol; Lee, Dabae; Lin, Chun-Yi; Lu, Ya-Huei; Min, Mina; Tan, Verily; Watson, Sunnie Lee; Watson, William R.

2015-01-01

The learner-centered paradigm of instruction differs in such fundamental ways from the teacher-centered paradigm that it requires technology to serve very different functions. In 2006, a research team at Indiana University began to work on identifying those functions and published their results in 2008. Subsequently, the team elaborated and…

Anatomical Modularity of Verbal Working Memory? Functional Anatomical Evidence from a Famous Patient with Short-Term Memory Deficits.

PubMed

Paulesu, Eraldo; Shallice, Tim; Danelli, Laura; Sberna, Maurizio; Frackowiak, Richard S J; Frith, Chris D

2017-01-01

Cognitive skills are the emergent property of distributed neural networks. The distributed nature of these networks does not necessarily imply a lack of specialization of the individual brain structures involved. However, it remains questionable whether discrete aspects of high-level behavior might be the result of localized brain activity of individual nodes within such networks. The phonological loop of working memory, with its simplicity, seems ideally suited for testing this possibility. Central to the development of the phonological loop model has been the description of patients with focal lesions and specific deficits. As much as the detailed description of their behavior has served to refine the phonological loop model, a classical anatomoclinical correlation approach with such cases falls short in telling whether the observed behavior is based on the functions of a neural system resembling that seen in normal subjects challenged with phonological loop tasks or whether different systems have taken over. This is a crucial issue for the cross correlation of normal cognition, normal physiology, and cognitive neuropsychology. Here we describe the functional anatomical patterns of JB, a historical patient originally described by Warrington et al. (1971), a patient with a left temporo-parietal lesion and selective short phonological store deficit. JB was studied with the H 2 15 O PET activation technique during a rhyming task, which primarily depends on the rehearsal system of the phonological loop. No residual function was observed in the left temporo-parietal junction, a region previously associated with the phonological buffer of working memory. However, Broca's area, the major counterpart of the rehearsal system, was the major site of activation during the rhyming task. Specific and autonomous activation of Broca's area in the absence of afferent inputs from the other major anatomical component of the phonological loop shows that a certain degree of functional independence or modularity exists in this distributed anatomical-cognitive system.

Anatomical Modularity of Verbal Working Memory? Functional Anatomical Evidence from a Famous Patient with Short-Term Memory Deficits

PubMed Central

Paulesu, Eraldo; Shallice, Tim; Danelli, Laura; Sberna, Maurizio; Frackowiak, Richard S. J.; Frith, Chris D.

2017-01-01

Cognitive skills are the emergent property of distributed neural networks. The distributed nature of these networks does not necessarily imply a lack of specialization of the individual brain structures involved. However, it remains questionable whether discrete aspects of high-level behavior might be the result of localized brain activity of individual nodes within such networks. The phonological loop of working memory, with its simplicity, seems ideally suited for testing this possibility. Central to the development of the phonological loop model has been the description of patients with focal lesions and specific deficits. As much as the detailed description of their behavior has served to refine the phonological loop model, a classical anatomoclinical correlation approach with such cases falls short in telling whether the observed behavior is based on the functions of a neural system resembling that seen in normal subjects challenged with phonological loop tasks or whether different systems have taken over. This is a crucial issue for the cross correlation of normal cognition, normal physiology, and cognitive neuropsychology. Here we describe the functional anatomical patterns of JB, a historical patient originally described by Warrington et al. (1971), a patient with a left temporo-parietal lesion and selective short phonological store deficit. JB was studied with the H215O PET activation technique during a rhyming task, which primarily depends on the rehearsal system of the phonological loop. No residual function was observed in the left temporo-parietal junction, a region previously associated with the phonological buffer of working memory. However, Broca's area, the major counterpart of the rehearsal system, was the major site of activation during the rhyming task. Specific and autonomous activation of Broca's area in the absence of afferent inputs from the other major anatomical component of the phonological loop shows that a certain degree of functional independence or modularity exists in this distributed anatomical-cognitive system. PMID:28567009

Operational characterisation of requirements and early validation environment for high demanding space systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Barro, E.; Delbufalo, A.; Rossi, F.

1993-01-01

The definition of some modern high demanding space systems requires a different approach to system definition and design from that adopted for traditional missions. System functionality is strongly coupled to the operational analysis, aimed at characterizing the dynamic interactions of the flight element with its surrounding environment and its ground control segment. Unambiguous functional, operational and performance requirements are to be defined for the system, thus improving also the successive development stages. This paper proposes a Petri Nets based methodology and two related prototype applications (to ARISTOTELES orbit control and to Hermes telemetry generation) for the operational analysis of space systems through the dynamic modeling of their functions and a related computer aided environment (ISIDE) able to make the dynamic model work, thus enabling an early validation of the system functional representation, and to provide a structured system requirements data base, which is the shared knowledge base interconnecting static and dynamic applications, fully traceable with the models and interfaceable with the external world.

The role of prefrontal catecholamines in attention and working memory

PubMed Central

Clark, Kelsey L.; Noudoost, Behrad

2014-01-01

While much progress has been made in identifying the brain regions and neurochemical systems involved in the cognitive processes disrupted in mental illnesses, to date, the level of detail at which neurobiologists can describe the chain of events giving rise to cognitive functions is very rudimentary. Much of the intense interest in understanding cognitive functions is motivated by the hope that it might be possible to understand these complex functions at the level of neurons and neural circuits. Here, we review the current state of the literature regarding how modulations in catecholamine levels within the prefrontal cortex (PFC) alter the neuronal and behavioral correlates of cognitive functions, particularly attention and working memory. PMID:24782714

IDEAS and App Development Internship in Hardware and Software Design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alrayes, Rabab D.

2016-01-01

In this report, I will discuss the tasks and projects I have completed while working as an electrical engineering intern during the spring semester of 2016 at NASA Kennedy Space Center. In the field of software development, I completed tasks for the G-O Caching Mobile App and the Asbestos Management Information System (AMIS) Web App. The G-O Caching Mobile App was written in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript on the Cordova framework, while the AMIS Web App is written in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and C# on the AngularJS framework. My goals and objectives on these two projects were to produce an app with an eye-catching and intuitive User Interface (UI), which will attract more employees to participate; to produce a fully-tested, fully functional app which supports workforce engagement and exploration; to produce a fully-tested, fully functional web app that assists technicians working in asbestos management. I also worked in hardware development on the Integrated Display and Environmental Awareness System (IDEAS) wearable technology project. My tasks on this project were focused in PCB design and camera integration. My goals and objectives for this project were to successfully integrate fully functioning custom hardware extenders on the wearable technology headset to minimize the size of hardware on the smart glasses headset for maximum user comfort; to successfully integrate fully functioning camera onto the headset. By the end of this semester, I was able to successfully develop four extender boards to minimize hardware on the headset, and assisted in integrating a fully-functioning camera into the system.

Work distributions for random sudden quantum quenches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Łobejko, Marcin; Łuczka, Jerzy; Talkner, Peter

2017-05-01

The statistics of work performed on a system by a sudden random quench is investigated. Considering systems with finite dimensional Hilbert spaces we model a sudden random quench by randomly choosing elements from a Gaussian unitary ensemble (GUE) consisting of Hermitian matrices with identically, Gaussian distributed matrix elements. A probability density function (pdf) of work in terms of initial and final energy distributions is derived and evaluated for a two-level system. Explicit results are obtained for quenches with a sharply given initial Hamiltonian, while the work pdfs for quenches between Hamiltonians from two independent GUEs can only be determined in explicit form in the limits of zero and infinite temperature. The same work distribution as for a sudden random quench is obtained for an adiabatic, i.e., infinitely slow, protocol connecting the same initial and final Hamiltonians.

Investigations of the Effects of Altered Vestibular System Function on Hindlimb Anti-Gravity Muscles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lowery, Mary Sue

1998-01-01

Exposure to different gravitational environments, both the microgravity of spaceflight and the hypergravity of centrifugation, result in altered vestibulo-spinal function which can be reversed by reacclimation to earth gravity (2). Control of orientation, posture, and locomotion are functions of the vestibular system which are altered by changes in gravitational environment. Not only is the vestibular system involved with coordination and proprioception, but the gravity sensing portion of the vestibular system also plays a major role in maintaining muscle tone through projections to spinal cord motoneurons that control anti-gravity muscles. I have been involved with investigations of several aspects of the link between vestibular inputs and muscle morphology and function during my work with Dr. Nancy Daunton this summer and the previous summer. We have prepared a manuscript for submission (4) to Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine based on work that I performed last summer in Dr. Daunton's lab. Techniques developed for that project will be utilized in subsequent experiments begun in the summer of 1998. I have been involved with the development of a pilot project to test the effects of vestibular galvanic stimulation (VGS) on anti-gravity muscles and in another project testing the effects of the ototoxic drug streptomycin on the otolith-spinal reflex and anti-gravity muscle morphology.

Evaluation of impairment of the upper extremity.

PubMed

Blair, S J; McCormick, E; Bear-Lehman, J; Fess, E E; Rader, E

1987-08-01

Evaluation of impairment of the upper extremity is the product of a team effort by the physician, occupational therapist, physical therapist, and rehabilitation counselor. A careful recording of the anatomic impairment should be made because this is critical in determining the subsequent functional activities of the extremity. The measurement criteria for clinical and functional evaluation includes condition assessment instruments. Some assess the neurovascular system, others assess movements including the monitoring of articular motion and musculotendinous function. Sensibility assessment instruments measure sympathetic response and detect single joint stimulus, discrimination, quantification, and recognition abilities. A detailed description of each assessment is recorded and physical capacity evaluation is only one component of the entire vocational evaluation. This evaluation answers questions regarding the injured worker's ability to return to his previous job. The work simulator is a useful instrument that allows rehabilitation and testing of the injured upper extremity. Job site evaluation includes assessment criteria for work performance, work behavior, and work environment.

Acute effects of donepezil in healthy young adults underline the fractionation of executive functioning.

PubMed

Ginani, G E; Tufik, S; Bueno, O F A; Pradella-Hallinan, M; Rusted, J; Pompéia, S

2011-11-01

The cholinergic system is involved in the modulation of both bottom-up and top-down attentional control. Top-down attention engages multiple executive control processes, but few studies have investigated whether all or selective elements of executive functions are modulated by the cholinergic system. To investigate the acute effects of the pro-cholinergic donepezil in young, healthy volunteers on distinct components of executive functions we conducted a double-blind, placebo-controlled, independent-groups design study including 42 young healthy male participants who were randomly assigned to one of three oral treatments: glucose (placebo), donepezil 5 mg or donepezil 7.5 mg. The test battery included measures of different executive components (shifting, updating, inhibition, dual-task performance, planning, access to long-term memory), tasks that evaluated arousal/vigilance/visuomotor performance, as well as functioning of working memory subsidiary systems. Donepezil improved sustained attention, reaction times, dual-task performance and the executive component of digit span. The positive effects in these executive tasks did not correlate with arousal/visuomotor/vigilance measures. Among the various executive domains investigated donepezil selectively increased dual-task performance in a manner that could not be ascribed to improvement in arousal/vigilance/visuomotor performance nor working memory slave systems. Other executive tasks that rely heavily on visuospatial processing may also be modulated by the cholinergic system.

Getting to the core of cadherin complex function in Caenorhabditis elegans.

PubMed

Hardin, Jeff

2015-01-01

The classic cadherin-catenin complex (CCC) mediates cell-cell adhesion in metazoans. Although substantial insights have been gained by studying the CCC in vertebrate tissue culture, analyzing requirements for and regulation of the CCC in vertebrates remains challenging. Caenorhabditis elegans is a powerful system for connecting the molecular details of CCC function with functional requirements in a living organism. Recent data, using an "angstroms to embryos" approach, have elucidated functions for key residues, conserved across all metazoans, that mediate cadherin/β-catenin binding. Other recent work reveals a novel, potentially ancestral, role for the C. elegans p120ctn homologue in regulating polarization of blastomeres in the early embryo via Cdc42 and the partitioning-defective (PAR)/atypical protein kinase C (aPKC) complex. Finally, recent work suggests that the CCC is trafficked to the cell surface via the clathrin adaptor protein complex 1 (AP-1) in surprising ways. These studies continue to underscore the value of C. elegans as a model system for identifying conserved molecular mechanisms involving the CCC.

Towards a comprehensive understanding of emerging dynamics and function of pancreatic islets: A complex network approach. Comment on "Network science of biological systems at different scales: A review" by Gosak et al.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Loppini, Alessandro

2018-03-01

Complex network theory represents a comprehensive mathematical framework to investigate biological systems, ranging from sub-cellular and cellular scales up to large-scale networks describing species interactions and ecological systems. In their exhaustive and comprehensive work [1], Gosak et al. discuss several scenarios in which the network approach was able to uncover general properties and underlying mechanisms of cells organization and regulation, tissue functions and cell/tissue failure in pathology, by the study of chemical reaction networks, structural networks and functional connectivities.

Large-Animal Biventricular Working Heart Perfusion System with Low Priming Volume-Comparison between in vivo and ex vivo Cardiac Function.

PubMed

Abicht, Jan-Michael; Mayr, Tanja Axinja Jelena; Jauch, Judith; Guethoff, Sonja; Buchholz, Stefan; Reichart, Bruno; Bauer, Andreas

2018-01-01

Existing large-animal, ex vivo, cardiac perfusion models are restricted in their ability to establish an ischemia/reperfusion condition as seen in cardiac surgery or transplantation. Other working heart systems only challenge one ventricle or require a substantially larger priming volume. We describe a novel biventricular cardiac perfusion system with reduced priming volume. Juvenile pig hearts were cardiopleged, explanted, and reperfused ex vivo after 150 minutes of cold ischemia. Autologous whole blood was used as perfusate (minimal priming volume 350 mL). After 15 minutes of Langendorff perfusion (LM), the system was switched into a biventricular working mode (WM) and studied for 3 hours. During reperfusion, complete unloading of both ventricles and constant-pressure coronary perfusion was achieved. During working mode perfusion, the preload and afterload pressure of both ventricles was controlled within the targeted physiologic range. Functional parameters such as left ventricular work index were reduced in ex vivo working mode (in vivo: 787 ± 186 vs. 1 h WM 498 ± 66 mm Hg·mL/g·min; p  < 0.01), but remained stable throughout the following study period (3 h WM 517 ± 103 mm Hg·mL/g·min; p  = 0.63). Along with the elevated workload during WM, myocardial metabolism and oxygen consumption increased compared with LM (0.021 ± 0.08 vs. 0.06 ± 0.01 mL/min/g; 1 h after reperfusion). Histologic examination of the myocardium revealed no structural damage. In the ex vivo perfusion system, stable hemodynamic and metabolic conditions can be established for a period of 3 hours while functional and blood parameters are easily accessible. Moreover, because of the minimal priming volume, the novel ex vivo cardiac perfusion circuit allows for autologous perfusion, using the limited amount of blood available from the organ donating animal. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Dopaminergic and cholinergic modulations of visual-spatial attention and working memory: insights from molecular genetic research and implications for adult cognitive development.

PubMed

Störmer, Viola S; Passow, Susanne; Biesenack, Julia; Li, Shu-Chen

2012-05-01

Attention and working memory are fundamental for selecting and maintaining behaviorally relevant information. Not only do both processes closely intertwine at the cognitive level, but they implicate similar functional brain circuitries, namely the frontoparietal and the frontostriatal networks, which are innervated by cholinergic and dopaminergic pathways. Here we review the literature on cholinergic and dopaminergic modulations of visual-spatial attention and visual working memory processes to gain insights on aging-related changes in these processes. Some extant findings have suggested that the cholinergic system plays a role in the orienting of attention to enable the detection and discrimination of visual information, whereas the dopaminergic system has mainly been associated with working memory processes such as updating and stabilizing representations. However, since visual-spatial attention and working memory processes are not fully dissociable, there is also evidence of interacting cholinergic and dopaminergic modulations of both processes. We further review gene-cognition association studies that have shown that individual differences in visual-spatial attention and visual working memory are associated with acetylcholine- and dopamine-relevant genes. The efficiency of these 2 transmitter systems declines substantially during healthy aging. These declines, in part, contribute to age-related deficits in attention and working memory functions. We report novel data showing an effect of dopamine COMT gene on spatial updating processes in older but not in younger adults, indicating potential magnification of genetic effects in old age.

Functional Assessment to Predict Capacity for Work in a Population of School-Leavers with Disabilities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eagar, Kathy; Green, Janette; Gordon, Robert; Owen, Alan; Masso, Malcolm; Williams, Kathryn

2006-01-01

This study reports on an assessment system for school-leavers with disabilities to identify their capacity for work and the type of transition-to-work programme best suited to each person. Participants were 1,556 high school students in four cohorts who left school between 1999 and 2002. Each school-leaver was assessed by rehabilitation…

Evidence for a double dissociation of articulatory rehearsal and non-articulatory maintenance of phonological information in human verbal working memory.

PubMed

Trost, Sarah; Gruber, Oliver

2012-01-01

Recent functional neuroimaging studies have provided evidence that human verbal working memory is represented by two complementary neural systems, a left lateralized premotor-parietal network implementing articulatory rehearsal and a presumably phylogenetically older bilateral anterior-prefrontal/inferior-parietal network subserving non-articulatory maintenance of phonological information. In order to corroborate these findings from functional neuroimaging, we performed a targeted behavioural study in patients with very selective and circumscribed brain lesions to key regions suggested to support these different subcomponents of human verbal working memory. Within a sample of over 500 neurological patients assessed with high-resolution structural magnetic resonance imaging, we identified 2 patients with corresponding brain lesions, one with an isolated lesion to Broca's area and the other with a selective lesion bilaterally to the anterior middle frontal gyrus. These 2 patients as well as groups of age-matched healthy controls performed two circuit-specific verbal working memory tasks. In this way, we systematically assessed the hypothesized selective behavioural effects of these brain lesions on the different subcomponents of verbal working memory in terms of a double dissociation. Confirming prior findings, the lesion to Broca's area led to reduced performance under articulatory rehearsal, whereas the non-articulatory maintenance of phonological information was unimpaired. Conversely, the bifrontopolar brain lesion was associated with impaired non-articulatory phonological working memory, whereas performance under articulatory rehearsal was unaffected. The present experimental neuropsychological study in patients with specific and circumscribed brain lesions confirms the hypothesized double dissociation of two complementary brain systems underlying verbal working memory in humans. In particular, the results demonstrate the functional relevance of the anterior prefrontal cortex for non-articulatory maintenance of phonological information and, in this way, provide further support for the evolutionary-based functional-neuroanatomical model of human working memory. Copyright © 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Working with Chronically Dysfunctional Families.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Younger, Robert; And Others

This paper reviews family therapy with chronically dysfunctional families including the development of family therapy and current trends which appear to give little guidance toward working with severely dysfunctional families. A theoretical stance based upon the systems approach to family functioning and pathology is presented which suggests: (1)…

Working Memory and Down Syndrome

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Baddeley, A.; Jarrold, C.

2007-01-01

A brief account is given of the evolution of the concept of working memory from a unitary store into a multicomponent system. Four components are distinguished, the phonological loop which is responsible for maintaining speech-based information, the visuospatial sketchpad performing a similar function for visual information, the central executive…

Representing uncertainty in objective functions: extension to include the influence of serial correlation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Croke, B. F.

2008-12-01

The role of performance indicators is to give an accurate indication of the fit between a model and the system being modelled. As all measurements have an associated uncertainty (determining the significance that should be given to the measurement), performance indicators should take into account uncertainties in the observed quantities being modelled as well as in the model predictions (due to uncertainties in inputs, model parameters and model structure). In the presence of significant uncertainty in observed and modelled output of a system, failure to adequately account for variations in the uncertainties means that the objective function only gives a measure of how well the model fits the observations, not how well the model fits the system being modelled. Since in most cases, the interest lies in fitting the system response, it is vital that the objective function(s) be designed to account for these uncertainties. Most objective functions (e.g. those based on the sum of squared residuals) assume homoscedastic uncertainties. If model contribution to the variations in residuals can be ignored, then transformations (e.g. Box-Cox) can be used to remove (or at least significantly reduce) heteroscedasticity. An alternative which is more generally applicable is to explicitly represent the uncertainties in the observed and modelled values in the objective function. Previous work on this topic addressed the modifications to standard objective functions (Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency, RMSE, chi- squared, coefficient of determination) using the optimal weighted averaging approach. This paper extends this previous work; addressing the issue of serial correlation. A form for an objective function that includes serial correlation will be presented, and the impact on model fit discussed.

Run-D.M.C.: A Mnemonic Aid for Explaining Mass Transfer in Electrochemical Systems

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Miles, Deon T.

2013-01-01

Electrochemistry is a significant area of analytical chemistry encompassing electrical measurements of chemical systems. The applications associated with electrochemistry appear in many aspects of everyday life: explaining how batteries work, how the human nervous system functions, and how metal corrosion occurs. The most common electrochemical…

Redesigning the District Operating System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hodas, Steven

2015-01-01

In this paper, we look at the inner workings of a school district through the lens of the "district operating system (DOS)," a set of interlocking mutually-reinforcing modules that includes functions like procurement, contracting, data and IT policy, the general counsel's office, human resources, and the systems for employee and family…

Technical and Economic Feasibility Study of At-Grade Concrete Slab Track for Urban Rail Transit Systems

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1981-08-01

The report presents work conducted to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of using concrete slab track systems for at-grade transit track. The functions of a rail transit track system are to guide railway vehicles and provide a safe and a...

Breadboard activities for advanced protein crystal growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosenberger, Franz; Banish, Michael

1993-01-01

The proposed work entails the design, assembly, testing, and delivery of a turn-key system for the semi-automated determination of protein solubilities as a function of temperature. The system will utilize optical scintillation as a means of detecting and monitoring nucleation and crystallite growth during temperature lowering (or raising, with retrograde solubility systems). The deliverables of this contract are: (1) turn-key scintillation system for the semi-automatic determination of protein solubilities as a function of temperature, (2) instructions and software package for the operation of the scintillation system, and (3) one semi-annual and one final report including the test results obtained for ovostatin with the above scintillation system.

A direct approach to the design of linear multivariable systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Agrawal, B. L.

1974-01-01

Design of multivariable systems is considered and design procedures are formulated in the light of the most recent work on model matching. The word model matching is used exclusively to mean matching the input-output behavior of two systems. The term is used in the frequency domain to indicate the comparison of two transfer matrices containing transfer functions as elements. Design methods where non-interaction is not used as a criteria were studied. Two design methods are considered. The first method of design is based solely upon the specification of generalized error coefficients for each individual transfer function of the overall system transfer matrix. The second design method is called the pole fixing method because all the system poles are fixed at preassigned positions. The zeros of terms either above or below the diagonal are partially fixed via steady state error coefficients. The advantages and disadvantages of each method are discussed and an example is worked to demonstrate their uses. The special cases of triangular decoupling and minimum constraints are discussed.

Quality of human-computer interaction - results of a national usability survey of hospital-IT in Germany

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Due to the increasing functionality of medical information systems, it is hard to imagine day to day work in hospitals without IT support. Therefore, the design of dialogues between humans and information systems is one of the most important issues to be addressed in health care. This survey presents an analysis of the current quality level of human-computer interaction of healthcare-IT in German hospitals, focused on the users' point of view. Methods To evaluate the usability of clinical-IT according to the design principles of EN ISO 9241-10 the IsoMetrics Inventory, an assessment tool, was used. The focus of this paper has been put on suitability for task, training effort and conformity with user expectations, differentiated by information systems. Effectiveness has been evaluated with the focus on interoperability and functionality of different IT systems. Results 4521 persons from 371 hospitals visited the start page of the study, while 1003 persons from 158 hospitals completed the questionnaire. The results show relevant variations between different information systems. Conclusions Specialised information systems with defined functionality received better assessments than clinical information systems in general. This could be attributed to the improved customisation of these specialised systems for specific working environments. The results can be used as reference data for evaluation and benchmarking of human computer engineering in clinical health IT context for future studies. PMID:22070880

Equivalence between contextuality and negativity of the Wigner function for qudits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Delfosse, Nicolas; Okay, Cihan; Bermejo-Vega, Juan; Browne, Dan E.; Raussendorf, Robert

2017-12-01

Understanding what distinguishes quantum mechanics from classical mechanics is crucial for quantum information processing applications. In this work, we consider two notions of non-classicality for quantum systems, negativity of the Wigner function and contextuality for Pauli measurements. We prove that these two notions are equivalent for multi-qudit systems with odd local dimension. For a single qudit, the equivalence breaks down. We show that there exist single qudit states that admit a non-contextual hidden variable model description and whose Wigner functions are negative.

Iterative development of visual control systems in a research vivarium.

PubMed

Bassuk, James A; Washington, Ida M

2014-01-01

The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that reintroduction of Continuous Performance Improvement (CPI) methodology, a lean approach to management at Seattle Children's (Hospital, Research Institute, Foundation), would facilitate engagement of vivarium employees in the development and sustainment of a daily management system and a work-in-process board. Such engagement was implemented through reintroduction of aspects of the Toyota Production System. Iterations of a Work-In-Process Board were generated using Shewhart's Plan-Do-Check-Act process improvement cycle. Specific attention was given to the importance of detecting and preventing errors through assessment of the following 5 levels of quality: Level 1, customer inspects; Level 2, company inspects; Level 3, work unit inspects; Level 4, self-inspection; Level 5, mistake proofing. A functioning iteration of a Mouse Cage Work-In-Process Board was eventually established using electronic data entry, an improvement that increased the quality level from 1 to 3 while reducing wasteful steps, handoffs and queues. A visual workplace was realized via a daily management system that included a Work-In-Process Board, a problem solving board and two Heijunka boards. One Heijunka board tracked cage changing as a function of a biological kanban, which was validated via ammonia levels. A 17% reduction in cage changing frequency provided vivarium staff with additional time to support Institute researchers in their mutual goal of advancing cures for pediatric diseases. Cage washing metrics demonstrated an improvement in the flow continuum in which a traditional batch and queue push system was replaced with a supermarket-type pull system. Staff engagement during the improvement process was challenging and is discussed. The collective data indicate that the hypothesis was found to be true. The reintroduction of CPI into daily work in the vivarium is consistent with the 4P Model of the Toyota Way and selected Principles that guide implementation of the Toyota Production System.

Iterative Development of Visual Control Systems in a Research Vivarium

PubMed Central

Bassuk, James A.; Washington, Ida M.

2014-01-01

The goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that reintroduction of Continuous Performance Improvement (CPI) methodology, a lean approach to management at Seattle Children’s (Hospital, Research Institute, Foundation), would facilitate engagement of vivarium employees in the development and sustainment of a daily management system and a work-in-process board. Such engagement was implemented through reintroduction of aspects of the Toyota Production System. Iterations of a Work-In-Process Board were generated using Shewhart’s Plan-Do-Check-Act process improvement cycle. Specific attention was given to the importance of detecting and preventing errors through assessment of the following 5 levels of quality: Level 1, customer inspects; Level 2, company inspects; Level 3, work unit inspects; Level 4, self-inspection; Level 5, mistake proofing. A functioning iteration of a Mouse Cage Work-In-Process Board was eventually established using electronic data entry, an improvement that increased the quality level from 1 to 3 while reducing wasteful steps, handoffs and queues. A visual workplace was realized via a daily management system that included a Work-In-Process Board, a problem solving board and two Heijunka boards. One Heijunka board tracked cage changing as a function of a biological kanban, which was validated via ammonia levels. A 17% reduction in cage changing frequency provided vivarium staff with additional time to support Institute researchers in their mutual goal of advancing cures for pediatric diseases. Cage washing metrics demonstrated an improvement in the flow continuum in which a traditional batch and queue push system was replaced with a supermarket-type pull system. Staff engagement during the improvement process was challenging and is discussed. The collective data indicate that the hypothesis was found to be true. The reintroduction of CPI into daily work in the vivarium is consistent with the 4P Model of the Toyota Way and selected Principles that guide implementation of the Toyota Production System. PMID:24736460

An Analysis of the Air Force Government Operated Civil Engineering Supply Store Logistic System: How Can It Be Improved?

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-09-01

6 Logistics Systems ............ 7 GOCESS Operation . . . . . . . ..... 9 Work Order Processing . . . . ... 12 Job Order Processing . . . . . . . . . . 14...orders and job orders to the Material Control Section will be discussed separately. Work Order Processing . Figure 2 illustrates typical WO processing...logistics function. The JO processing is similar. Job Order Processing . Figure 3 illustrates typical JO processing in a GOCESS operation. As with WOs, this

Darwin's legacy: the forms, function and sexual diversity of flowers

PubMed Central

Barrett, Spencer C. H.

2010-01-01

Charles Darwin studied floral biology for over 40 years and wrote three major books on plant reproduction. These works have provided the conceptual foundation for understanding floral adaptations that promote cross-fertilization and the mechanisms responsible for evolutionary transitions in reproductive systems. Many of Darwin's insights, gained from careful observations and experiments on diverse angiosperm species, remain remarkably durable today and have stimulated much current research on floral function and the evolution of mating systems. Here I review Darwin's seminal contributions to reproductive biology and provide an overview of the current status of research on several of the main topics to which he devoted considerable effort, including the consequences to fitness of cross- versus self-fertilization, the evolution and function of stylar polymorphisms, the adaptive significance of heteranthery, the origins of dioecy and related gender polymorphisms, and the transition from animal pollination to wind pollination. Post-Darwinian perspectives on floral function now recognize the importance of pollen dispersal and male outcrossed siring success in shaping floral adaptation. This has helped to link work on pollination biology and mating systems, two subfields of reproductive biology that remained largely isolated during much of the twentieth century despite Darwin's efforts towards integration. PMID:20047864

Optimal Wonderful Life Utility Functions in Multi-Agent Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wolpert, David H.; Tumer, Kagan; Swanson, Keith (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

The mathematics of Collective Intelligence (COINs) is concerned with the design of multi-agent systems so as to optimize an overall global utility function when those systems lack centralized communication and control. Typically in COINs each agent runs a distinct Reinforcement Learning (RL) algorithm, so that much of the design problem reduces to how best to initialize/update each agent's private utility function, as far as the ensuing value of the global utility is concerned. Traditional team game solutions to this problem assign to each agent the global utility as its private utility function. In previous work we used the COIN framework to derive the alternative Wonderful Life Utility (WLU), and experimentally established that having the agents use it induces global utility performance up to orders of magnitude superior to that induced by use of the team game utility. The WLU has a free parameter (the clamping parameter) which we simply set to zero in that previous work. Here we derive the optimal value of the clamping parameter, and demonstrate experimentally that using that optimal value can result in significantly improved performance over that of clamping to zero, over and above the improvement beyond traditional approaches.

Survey of on-road image projection with pixel light systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rizvi, Sadiq; Knöchelmann, Marvin; Ley, Peer-Phillip; Lachmayer, Roland

2017-12-01

HID, LED and laser-based high resolution automotive headlamps, as of late known as `pixel light systems', are at the forefront of the developing technologies paving the way for autonomous driving. In addition to light distribution capabilities that outperform Adaptive Front Lighting and Matrix Beam systems, pixel light systems provide the possibility of image projection directly onto the street. The underlying objective is to improve the driving experience, in any given scenario, in terms of safety, comfort and interaction for all road users. The focus of this work is to conduct a short survey on this state-of-the-art image projection functionality. A holistic research regarding the image projection functionality can be divided into three major categories: scenario selection, technological development and evaluation design. Consequently, the work presented in this paper is divided into three short studies. Section 1 provides a brief introduction to pixel light systems and a justification for the approach adopted for this study. Section 2 deals with the selection of scenarios (and driving maneuvers) where image projection can play a critical role. Section 3 discusses high power LED and LED array based prototypes that are currently under development. Section 4 demonstrates results from an experiment conducted to evaluate the illuminance of an image space projected using a pixel light system prototype developed at the Institute of Product Development (IPeG). Findings from this work can help to identify and advance future research work relating to: further development of pixel light systems, scenario planning, examination of optimal light sources, behavioral response studies etc.

Cognitive memory and mapping in a brain-like system for robotic navigation.

PubMed

Tang, Huajin; Huang, Weiwei; Narayanamoorthy, Aditya; Yan, Rui

2017-03-01

Electrophysiological studies in animals may provide a great insight into developing brain-like models of spatial cognition for robots. These studies suggest that the spatial ability of animals requires proper functioning of the hippocampus and the entorhinal cortex (EC). The involvement of the hippocampus in spatial cognition has been extensively studied, both in animal as well as in theoretical studies, such as in the brain-based models by Edelman and colleagues. In this work, we extend these earlier models, with a particular focus on the spatial coding properties of the EC and how it functions as an interface between the hippocampus and the neocortex, as proposed by previous work. By realizing the cognitive memory and mapping functions of the hippocampus and the EC, respectively, we develop a neurobiologically-inspired system to enable a mobile robot to perform task-based navigation in a maze environment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Work-family fit: the impact of emergency medical services work on the family system.

PubMed

Roth, Sheila Gillespie; Moore, Crystal Dea

2009-01-01

The stress associated with a career in emergency medical services (EMS) can impact the work-family fit and function of the family system for EMS personnel. Little research has been conducted on how the demands associated with a career in EMS influences family life. Objective. To describe salient EMS work factors that can impact the family system. Twelve family members (11 spouses and one parent) of EMS workers were interviewed using a semistructured qualitative interview guide that explored issues related to their family members' work that could impact the quality of family life. Using a phenomenological approach, transcribed interview data were examined for themes that illuminated factors that influence work-family fit. Data analysis revealed that shift work impacts numerous aspects of family life, including marital and parental roles, leisure and social opportunities, and home schedules and rhythms. Furthermore, families coped with challenges associated with their loved one's EMS work through negotiating role responsibilities, developing their own interests, giving their family member "space," and providing support by listening and helping the EMS worker process his or her reactions to difficult work. In addition, family members reported concern over their EMS worker's physical safety. Implications from the data are discussed vis-a-vis the work-family fit and family systems models. Education, communication, support systems, and individual interests are key ways to promote a healthy work-family fit.

Would Consolidation of Army Software Engineering Organizations Help to Control Software Costs for Current and Future Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-04-16

Specific to Work and Organization .................................................................... 32 Summary of Questions Specific to Work and...Limitations include assumptions that the work identified in the software center’s 6 mission and functions manual (10-1; CECOM, 2011) as well as in public...that produced RDECOM. The focus was on the movement of positions based on the position job series, not on the work that was actually being performed

OSFA Goals and Objectives System: Strategies for Improved Program Planning and Management.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Advanced Technology, Inc., Reston, VA.

The purpose and function of the Goals and Objectives System of the U.S. Office of Student Financial Assistance (OSFA) are discussed. Results of a review of the system, policy issues, and a strategy for improving the system in OSFA program planning and management are also addressed. The system identifies a structure for work activities in OSFA and…

Topologically protected modes in non-equilibrium stochastic systems.

PubMed

Murugan, Arvind; Vaikuntanathan, Suriyanarayanan

2017-01-10

Non-equilibrium driving of biophysical processes is believed to enable their robust functioning despite the presence of thermal fluctuations and other sources of disorder. Such robust functions include sensory adaptation, enhanced enzymatic specificity and maintenance of coherent oscillations. Elucidating the relation between energy consumption and organization remains an important and open question in non-equilibrium statistical mechanics. Here we report that steady states of systems with non-equilibrium fluxes can support topologically protected boundary modes that resemble similar modes in electronic and mechanical systems. Akin to their electronic and mechanical counterparts, topological-protected boundary steady states in non-equilibrium systems are robust and are largely insensitive to local perturbations. We argue that our work provides a framework for how biophysical systems can use non-equilibrium driving to achieve robust function.

Serotonergic Function, Two-Mode Models of Self-Regulation, and Vulnerability to Depression: What Depression Has in Common With Impulsive Aggression

PubMed Central

Carver, Charles S.; Johnson, Sheri L.; Joormann, Jutta

2010-01-01

Evidence from diverse literatures supports the viewpoint that two modes of self-regulation exist, a lower-order system that responds quickly to associative cues of the moment and a higher-order system that responds more reflectively and planfully; that low serotonergic function is linked to relative dominance of the lower-order system; that how dominance of the lower-order system is manifested depends on additional variables; and that low serotonergic function therefore can promote behavioral patterns as divergent as impulsive aggression and lethargic depression. Literatures reviewed include work on two-mode models; studies of brain function supporting the biological plausibility of the two-mode view and the involvement of serotonergic pathways in functions pertaining to it; and studies relating low serotonergic function to impulsiveness, aggression (including extreme violence), aspects of personality, and depression vulnerability. Substantial differences between depression and other phenomena reviewed are interpreted by proposing that depression reflects both low serotonergic function and low reward sensitivity. The article closes with brief consideration of the idea that low serotonergic function relates to even more diverse phenomena, whose natures depend in part on sensitivities of other systems. PMID:18954161

Energy level alignment at molecule-metal interfaces from an optimally tuned range-separated hybrid functional

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zhen-Fei; Egger, David A.; Refaely-Abramson, Sivan; Kronik, Leeor; Neaton, Jeffrey B.

2017-03-01

The alignment of the frontier orbital energies of an adsorbed molecule with the substrate Fermi level at metal-organic interfaces is a fundamental observable of significant practical importance in nanoscience and beyond. Typical density functional theory calculations, especially those using local and semi-local functionals, often underestimate level alignment leading to inaccurate electronic structure and charge transport properties. In this work, we develop a new fully self-consistent predictive scheme to accurately compute level alignment at certain classes of complex heterogeneous molecule-metal interfaces based on optimally tuned range-separated hybrid functionals. Starting from a highly accurate description of the gas-phase electronic structure, our method by construction captures important nonlocal surface polarization effects via tuning of the long-range screened exchange in a range-separated hybrid in a non-empirical and system-specific manner. We implement this functional in a plane-wave code and apply it to several physisorbed and chemisorbed molecule-metal interface systems. Our results are in quantitative agreement with experiments, the both the level alignment and work function changes. Our approach constitutes a new practical scheme for accurate and efficient calculations of the electronic structure of molecule-metal interfaces.

Recommendations for fitness for work medical evaluations in chronic respiratory patients. Spanish Society of Pulmonology and Thoracic Surgery (SEPAR).

PubMed

Martínez González, Cristina; González Barcala, Francisco Javier; Belda Ramírez, José; González Ros, Isabel; Alfageme Michavila, Inmaculada; Orejas Martínez, Cristina; González Rodríguez-Moro, José Miguel; Rodríguez Portal, José Antonio; Fernández Álvarez, Ramón

2013-11-01

Chronic respiratory diseases often cause impairment in the functions and/or structure of the respiratory system, and impose limitations on different activities in the lives of persons who suffer them. In younger patients with an active working life, these limitations can cause problems in carrying out their normal work. Article 41 of the Spanish Constitution states that «the public authorities shall maintain a public Social Security system for all citizens guaranteeing adequate social assistance and benefits in situations of hardship». Within this framework is the assessment of fitness for work, as a dual-nature process (medico-legal) that aims to determine whether it is appropriate or not to recognise a person's right to receive benefits which replace the income that they no longer receive as they cannot carry out their work, due to loss of health. The role of the pulmonologist is essential in evaluating the diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and functional capacity of respiratory patients. These recommendations seek to bring the complex setting of fitness for work evaluation to pulmonologists and thoracic surgeons, providing action guidelines that allow them to advise their own patients about their incorporation into working life. Copyright © 2013 SEPAR. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.

The space shuttle payload planning working groups. Volume 4: Life sciences

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1973-01-01

The findings of the Life Sciences working group of the space shuttle payload planning activity are presented. The objectives of the Life Sciences investigations are: (1) to continue the research directed at understanding the origin of life and the search for extraterrestrial evidence of life, (2) biomedical research to understand mechanisms and provide criteria for support of manned flight, (3) technology development for life support, protective systems, and work aids for providing environmental control, and (4) to study basic biological functions at all levels or organization influenced by gravity, radiation, and circadian rhythms. Examples of candidate experimental schedules and the experimental package functional requirements are included.

Classical Literature Gives Life to Business Paradox and Systems Integration

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Page, Robert A.; Andoh, Samuel K.; Smith, Robert A.

2017-01-01

Professors bemoan the great difficulty students have understanding the complexity of their disciplines or functional specializations. Many non-traditional students have work and family commitments that limit the time needed to reflect professionally and to master these concepts. This disconnect has persisted despite decades of work developing more…

[System of technical facilities for equipping the anesthesiologist's work place in the operating room].

PubMed

Burlakov, R I; Iurevich, V M

1981-01-01

The authors proved the advisability of complex technical provision for certain functional cycles, or parts of medical technological process. The example given is a modification of working place for anesthesiologist at the operating theatre. Principle and additional devices included in the complex are specified.

What's the point of the type III secretion system needle?

PubMed Central

Blocker, Ariel J.; Deane, Janet E.; Veenendaal, Andreas K. J.; Roversi, Pietro; Hodgkinson, Julie L.; Johnson, Steven; Lea, Susan M.

2008-01-01

Recent work by several groups has significantly expanded our knowledge of the structure, regulation of assembly, and function of components of the extracellular portion of the type III secretion system (T3SS) of Gram-negative bacteria. This perspective presents a structure-informed analysis of functional data and discusses three nonmutually exclusive models of how a key aspect of T3SS biology, the sensing of host cells, may be performed. PMID:18458349

The digestive system: part 1.

PubMed

Johnstone, Carolyn; Hendry, Charles; Farley, Alistair; McLafferty, Ella

This article, which forms part of the life sciences series and is the first of two articles on the digestive system, explores the structure and function of the digestive system. It is important that nurses understand how the digestive system works and its role in maintaining health. The article describes the gross structure of the gastrointestinal tract along with relevant physiology. It also outlines several disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and their treatment and nursing management. The second article will explain the liver, pancreas and gall bladder and their digestive functions, and provides a brief overview of the disorders of chronic liver disease, pancreatitis and gallstones.

Cytoskeleton Molecular Motors: Structures and Their Functions in Neuron.

PubMed

Xiao, Qingpin; Hu, Xiaohui; Wei, Zhiyi; Tam, Kin Yip

2016-01-01

Cells make use of molecular motors to transport small molecules, macromolecules and cellular organelles to target region to execute biological functions, which is utmost important for polarized cells, such as neurons. In particular, cytoskeleton motors play fundamental roles in neuron polarization, extension, shape and neurotransmission. Cytoskeleton motors comprise of myosin, kinesin and cytoplasmic dynein. F-actin filaments act as myosin track, while kinesin and cytoplasmic dynein move on microtubules. Cytoskeleton motors work together to build a highly polarized and regulated system in neuronal cells via different molecular mechanisms and functional regulations. This review discusses the structures and working mechanisms of the cytoskeleton motors in neurons.

Addendum to foundations of multidimensional wave field signal theory: Gaussian source function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baddour, Natalie

2018-02-01

Many important physical phenomena are described by wave or diffusion-wave type equations. Recent work has shown that a transform domain signal description from linear system theory can give meaningful insight to multi-dimensional wave fields. In N. Baddour [AIP Adv. 1, 022120 (2011)], certain results were derived that are mathematically useful for the inversion of multi-dimensional Fourier transforms, but more importantly provide useful insight into how source functions are related to the resulting wave field. In this short addendum to that work, it is shown that these results can be applied with a Gaussian source function, which is often useful for modelling various physical phenomena.

Study of multi-functional precision optical measuring system for large scale equipment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jiang, Wei; Lao, Dabao; Zhou, Weihu; Zhang, Wenying; Jiang, Xingjian; Wang, Yongxi

2017-10-01

The effective application of high performance measurement technology can greatly improve the large-scale equipment manufacturing ability. Therefore, the geometric parameters measurement, such as size, attitude and position, requires the measurement system with high precision, multi-function, portability and other characteristics. However, the existing measuring instruments, such as laser tracker, total station, photogrammetry system, mostly has single function, station moving and other shortcomings. Laser tracker needs to work with cooperative target, but it can hardly meet the requirement of measurement in extreme environment. Total station is mainly used for outdoor surveying and mapping, it is hard to achieve the demand of accuracy in industrial measurement. Photogrammetry system can achieve a wide range of multi-point measurement, but the measuring range is limited and need to repeatedly move station. The paper presents a non-contact opto-electronic measuring instrument, not only it can work by scanning the measurement path but also measuring the cooperative target by tracking measurement. The system is based on some key technologies, such as absolute distance measurement, two-dimensional angle measurement, automatically target recognition and accurate aiming, precision control, assembly of complex mechanical system and multi-functional 3D visualization software. Among them, the absolute distance measurement module ensures measurement with high accuracy, and the twodimensional angle measuring module provides precision angle measurement. The system is suitable for the case of noncontact measurement of large-scale equipment, it can ensure the quality and performance of large-scale equipment throughout the process of manufacturing and improve the manufacturing ability of large-scale and high-end equipment.

Superconducting Qubits as Mechanical Quantum Engines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sachtleben, Kewin; Mazon, Kahio T.; Rego, Luis G. C.

2017-09-01

We propose the equivalence of superconducting qubits with a pistonlike mechanical quantum engine. The work reports a study on the nature of the nonequilibrium work exchanged with the quantum-nonadiabatic working medium, which is modeled as a multilevel coupled quantum well system subject to an external control parameter. The quantum dynamics is solved for arbitrary control protocols. It is shown that the work output has two components: one that depends instantaneously on the level populations and another that is due to the quantum coherences built in the system. The nonadiabatic coherent dynamics of the quantum engine gives rise to a resistance (friction) force that decreases the work output. We consider the functional equivalence of such a device and a rf-SQUID flux qubit.

Altair Lander Life Support: Requirement Analysis Cycles 1 and 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, Molly; Curley, Su; Rotter, Henry; Yagoda, Evan

2009-01-01

Life support systems are a critical part of human exploration beyond low earth orbit. NASA s Altair Lunar Lander has unique missions to perform and will need a unique life support system to complete them. Initial work demonstrated a feasible minimally-functional Lander design. This work was completed in Design Analysis Cycles (DAC) 1, 2, and 3 were reported in a previous paper. On October 21, 2008, the Altair project completed the Mission Concept Review (MCR), moving the project into Phase A. In Phase A activities, the project is preparing for the System Requirements Review (SRR). Altair has conducted two Requirements Analysis Cycles (RACs) to begin this work. During this time, the life support team must examine the Altair mission concepts, Constellation Program level requirements, and interfaces with other vehicles and spacesuits to derive the right set of requirements for the new vehicle. The minimum functionality design meets some of these requirements already and can be easily adapted to meet others. But Altair must identify which will be more costly in mass, power, or other resources to meet. These especially costly requirements must be analyzed carefully to be sure they are truly necessary, and are the best way of explaining and meeting the true need. If they are necessary and clear, they become important mass threats to track at the vehicle level. If they are not clear or do not seem necessary to all stakeholders, Altair must work to redefine them or push back on the requirements writers. Additionally, the life support team is evaluating new technologies to see if they are more effective than the existing baseline design at performing necessary functions in Altair s life support system.

Altair Lander Life Support: Requirements Analysis Cycles 1 and 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Anderson, Molly; Curley, Su; Rotter, Henry; Yagoda, Evan

2010-01-01

Life support systems are a critical part of human exploration beyond low earth orbit. NASA's Altair Lunar Lander has unique missions to perform and will need a unique life support system to complete them. Initial work demonstrated a feasible minimally -functional Lander design. This work was completed in Design Analysis Cycles (DAC) 1, 2, and 3 were reported in a previous paper'. On October 21, 2008, the Altair project completed the Mission Concept Review (MCR), moving the project into Phase A. In Phase A activities, the project is preparing for the System Requirements Review (SRR). Altair has conducted two Requirements Analysis Cycles (RACs) to begin this work. During this time, the life support team must examine the Altair mission concepts, Constellation Program level requirements, and interfaces with other vehicles and spacesuits to derive the right set of requirements for the new vehicle. The minimum functionality design meets some of these requirements already and can be easily adapted to meet others. But Altair must identify which will be more costly in mass, power, or other resources to meet. These especially costly requirements must be analyzed carefully to be sure they are truly necessary, and are the best way of explaining and meeting the true need. If they are necessary and clear, they become important mass threats to track at the vehicle level. If they are not clear or do not seem necessary to all stakeholders, Altair must work to redefine them or push back on the requirements writers. Additionally, the life support team is evaluating new technologies to see if they are more effective than the existing baseline design at performing necessary functions in Altair's life support system.

Going Home: The Influence of Workforce Performance Management Systems on the Decision to Engage in Remote Work Environments

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, Kenneth E., Jr.

2011-01-01

Since 1975, the advance of home-based or remote work has been predicted and encouraged (Nilles). Remote work entails the ability of workers to function as productively from distant locations as those workers in face-to-face office environments: e.g. secondary offices, co-workplace offices, mobile workstations, and home. This study will look at the…

F4TCNQ on Cu, Ag, and Au as prototypical example for a strong organic acceptor on coinage metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rangger, Gerold M.; Hofmann, Oliver T.; Romaner, Lorenz; Heimel, Georg; Bröker, Benjamin; Blum, Ralf-Peter; Johnson, Robert L.; Koch, Norbert; Zojer, Egbert

2009-04-01

Metal work-function modification with the help of organic acceptors is an efficient tool to significantly enhance the performance of modern state-of-the-art organic molecular electronic devices. Here, the prototypical organic acceptor 2,3,5,6-tetrafluoro-7,7,8,8-tetracyanoquinodimethane, F4TCNQ, is characterized on Ag(111), Au(111), and Cu(111) metal surfaces by means of density-functional theory calculations. Particular attention is paid to charge-transfer processes at the metal-organic interface; a subtle balance between charge forward and backward donations in combination with a strong adsorption-induced geometry change are found to be responsible for the observed increase in the system work function. A larger effect is obtained for the metals with larger initial work function. Interestingly, this results in similar charge-injection barriers from the substrate metal into an organic semiconductor deposited on top of the F4TCNQ layer. The impact of the F4TCNQ packing density of the electronic properties of the interface is also addressed. Comparing the calculated energy-level alignments and work-function modifications to experimental data from ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy yields good agreement between experiments and simulations.

Work Function of Oxide Ultrathin Films on the Ag(100) Surface.

PubMed

Sementa, Luca; Barcaro, Giovanni; Negreiros, Fabio R; Thomas, Iorwerth O; Netzer, Falko P; Ferrari, Anna Maria; Fortunelli, Alessandro

2012-02-14

Theoretical calculations of the work function of monolayer (ML) and bilayer (BL) oxide films on the Ag(100) surface are reported and analyzed as a function of the nature of the oxide for first-row transition metals. The contributions due to charge compression, charge transfer and rumpling are singled out. It is found that the presence of empty d-orbitals in the oxide metal can entail a charge flow from the Ag(100) surface to the oxide film which counteracts the decrease in the work function due to charge compression. This flow can also depend on the thickness of the film and be reduced in passing from ML to BL systems. A regular trend is observed along first-row transition metals, exhibiting a maximum for CuO, in which the charge flow to the oxide is so strong as to reverse the direction of rumpling. A simple protocol to estimate separately the contribution due to charge compression is discussed, and the difference between the work function of the bare metal surface and a Pauling-like electronegativity of the free oxide slabs is used as a descriptor quantity to predict the direction of charge transfer.

Parameter identification for nonlinear aerodynamic systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pearson, Allan E.

1992-01-01

Continuing work on frequency analysis for transfer function identification is discussed. A new study was initiated into a 'weighted' least squares algorithm within the context of the Fourier modulating function approach. The first phase of applying these techniques to the F-18 flight data is nearing completion, and these results are summarized.

Early Childcare, Executive Functioning, and the Moderating Role of Early Stress Physiology

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Berry, Daniel; Willoughby, Michael T.; Blair, Clancy; Ursache, Alexandra; Granger, Douglas A.

2014-01-01

Intervention studies indicate that children's childcare experiences can be leveraged to support the development of executive functioning (EF). The role of more normative childcare experiences is less clear. Increasingly, theory and empirical work suggest that individual differences in children's physiological stress systems may be associated with…

20 CFR 1002.5 - What definitions apply to USERRA?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

...-related responsibilities, except in the case that such entity has been delegated functions that are purely... appointee upon activation of the National Disaster Medical System (NDMS) or as a participant in an... employer, including the composition, structure, and functions of the work force of such employer; the...

The Analysis of Spontaneous Processes Using Equilibrium Thermodynamics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Honig, J. M.; Ben-Amotz, Dor

2006-01-01

The derivations based on the use of deficit functions provide a simple means of demonstrating the extremism conditions that are applicable to various thermodynamics function. The method shows that the maximum quantity of work is available from a system only when the processes are carried out reversibly since irreversible (spontaneous)…

Episodic and working memory deficits in alcoholic Korsakoff patients: the continuity theory revisited.

PubMed

Pitel, Anne Lise; Beaunieux, Hélène; Witkowski, Thomas; Vabret, François; de la Sayette, Vincent; Viader, Fausto; Desgranges, Béatrice; Eustache, Francis

2008-07-01

The exact nature of episodic and working memory impairments in alcoholic Korsakoff patients (KS) remains unclear, as does the specificity of these neuropsychological deficits compared with those of non-Korsakoff alcoholics (AL). The goals of the present study were therefore to (1) specify the nature of episodic and working memory impairments in KS, (2) determine the specificity of the KS neuropsychological profile compared with the AL profile, and (3) observe the distribution of individual performances within the 2 patient groups. We investigated episodic memory (encoding and retrieval abilities, contextual memory and state of consciousness associated with memories), the slave systems of working memory (phonological loop, visuospatial sketchpad and episodic buffer) and executive functions (inhibition, flexibility, updating and integration abilities) in 14 strictly selected KS, 40 AL and 55 control subjects (CS). Compared with CS, KS displayed impairments of episodic memory encoding and retrieval, contextual memory, recollection, the slave systems of working memory and executive functions. Although episodic memory was more severely impaired in KS than in AL, the single specificity of the KS profile was a disproportionately large encoding deficit. Apart from organizational and updating abilities, the slave systems of working memory and inhibition, flexibility and integration abilities were impaired to the same extent in both alcoholic groups. However, some KS were unable to complete the most difficult executive tasks. There was only a partial overlap of individual performances by KS and AL for episodic memory and a total mixture of the 2 groups for working memory. Korsakoff's syndrome encompasses impairments of the different episodic and working memory components. AL and KS displayed similar profiles of episodic and working memory deficits, in accordance with neuroimaging investigations showing similar patterns of brain damage in both alcoholic groups.

The intestinal microbiome, probiotics and prebiotics in neurogastroenterology

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The brain-gut axis allows bidirectional communication between the central nervous system (CNS) and the enteric nervous system (ENS), linking emotional and cognitive centers of the brain with peripheral intestinal functions. Recent experimental work suggests that the gut microbiota have an impact on ...

Multisystem Temperature Equilibration and the Second Law

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leff, Harvey S.

1977-01-01

Shows that the entropy change during the temperature equilibration of an isolated collection of systems which may exchange heat (but not work) energy is positive when the constant-volume heat capacity of each system is a non-negative function of the temperature. (MLH)

Web-GIS based information management system to Bureau of Law Enforcement for Urban Managementenforcement for urban management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Hai; Wang, Cheng; Ren, Bo

2007-06-01

Daily works of Law Enforcement Bureau are crucial in the urban management. However, with the development of the city, the information and data which are relative to Law Enforcement Bureau's daily work are increasing and updating. The increasing data result in that some traditional work is limited and inefficient in daily work. Analyzing the demands and obstacles of Law Enforcement Bureau, the paper proposes a new method to solve these problems. A web-GIS based information management system was produced for Bureau of Law Enforcement for Urban Management of Foshan. First part of the paper provides an overview of the system. Second part introduces the architecture of system and data organization. In the third part, the paper describes the design and implement of functional modules detailedly. In the end, this paper is concluded and proposes some strategic recommendations for the further development of the system. This paper focuses on the architecture and implementation of the system, solves the developing issues based on ArcServer, and introduces a new concept to the local government to solve the current problems. Practical application of this system showed that it played very important role in the Law Enforcement Bureau's work.

How to design a horizontal patient-focused hospital.

PubMed

Murphy, E C; Ruflin, P

1993-05-01

Work Imaging is an executive information system for analyzing the cost effectiveness and efficiency of work processes and structures in health care. Advanced Work Imaging relational database technology allows managers and employees to take a sample work activities profile organization-wide. This is married to financial and organizational data to produce images of work within and across all functions, departments, and levels. The images are benchmarked against best practice data to provide insight on the quality and cost efficiency of work practice patterns, from individual roles to departmental skill mix to organization-wide service processes.

System of HPC content archiving

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bogdanov, A.; Ivashchenko, A.

2017-12-01

This work is aimed to develop a system, that will effectively solve the problem of storing and analyzing files containing text data, by using modern software development tools, techniques and approaches. The main challenge of storing a large number of text documents defined at the problem formulation stage, have to be resolved with such functionality as full text search and document clustering depends on their contents. Main system features could be described with notions of distributed multilevel architecture, flexibility and interchangeability of components, achieved through the standard functionality incapsulation in independent executable modules.

Combined distribution functions: A powerful tool to identify cation coordination geometries in liquid systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sessa, Francesco; D'Angelo, Paola; Migliorati, Valentina

2018-01-01

In this work we have developed an analytical procedure to identify metal ion coordination geometries in liquid media based on the calculation of Combined Distribution Functions (CDFs) starting from Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulations. CDFs provide a fingerprint which can be easily and unambiguously assigned to a reference polyhedron. The CDF analysis has been tested on five systems and has proven to reliably identify the correct geometries of several ion coordination complexes. This tool is simple and general and can be efficiently applied to different MD simulations of liquid systems.

Functional neuromuscular stimulator for short-distance ambulation by certain thoracic-level spinal-cord-injured paraplegics.

PubMed

Graupe, D; Kohn, K H

1998-09-01

Functional Neuromuscular Stimulation (FNS) for unbraced short-distance ambulation by traumatic complete/near-complete T4 to T12 paraplegics is based on work by Graupe et al (1982), Kralj et al (1980), Liberson et al (1961), and others. This paper discusses methodology, performance, training, admissibility criteria, and medical observations for FNS-ambulation using the Parastep-I system, which is the first and only such system to have received FDA approval (1994) and which emanated from these previous works. The Parastep system is a transcutaneous non-invasive and microcomputerized electrical stimulation system built into a Walkman-size unit powered by eight AA batteries that is controlled by finger-touch buttons located on a walker's handbars for manual selection of stimulation menus. The microcomputer shapes, controls, and distributes trains of stimulation signals that trigger action potentials in selected peripheral nerves. Walker support is used for balance. The patient can don the system in under 10 minutes. At least 32 training sessions are required. Approximately 400 patients have used the Parastep system, essentially all achieving standing and at least 30 feet of ambulation, with a few reaching as much as 1 mile at a time. Recent literature presents data on the medical benefits of using the Parastep system-beyond the exercise benefits of short distance ambulation at will-such as increased blood flow to the lower extremities, lower HR at subpeak work intensities, increased peak work capability, reduced spasticity, and psychological benefits. We believe that the Parastep FNS system, which is presently commercially available by prescription, is easily usable for independent short-distance ambulation. We believe that its exercise benefits and its other medical and psychological benefits, as discussed, make it an important option for thoracic-level traumatic paraplegics.

Consensus Paper: Towards a Systems-Level View of Cerebellar Function: the Interplay Between Cerebellum, Basal Ganglia, and Cortex.

PubMed

Caligiore, Daniele; Pezzulo, Giovanni; Baldassarre, Gianluca; Bostan, Andreea C; Strick, Peter L; Doya, Kenji; Helmich, Rick C; Dirkx, Michiel; Houk, James; Jörntell, Henrik; Lago-Rodriguez, Angel; Galea, Joseph M; Miall, R Chris; Popa, Traian; Kishore, Asha; Verschure, Paul F M J; Zucca, Riccardo; Herreros, Ivan

2017-02-01

Despite increasing evidence suggesting the cerebellum works in concert with the cortex and basal ganglia, the nature of the reciprocal interactions between these three brain regions remains unclear. This consensus paper gathers diverse recent views on a variety of important roles played by the cerebellum within the cerebello-basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical system across a range of motor and cognitive functions. The paper includes theoretical and empirical contributions, which cover the following topics: recent evidence supporting the dynamical interplay between cerebellum, basal ganglia, and cortical areas in humans and other animals; theoretical neuroscience perspectives and empirical evidence on the reciprocal influences between cerebellum, basal ganglia, and cortex in learning and control processes; and data suggesting possible roles of the cerebellum in basal ganglia movement disorders. Although starting from different backgrounds and dealing with different topics, all the contributors agree that viewing the cerebellum, basal ganglia, and cortex as an integrated system enables us to understand the function of these areas in radically different ways. In addition, there is unanimous consensus between the authors that future experimental and computational work is needed to understand the function of cerebellar-basal ganglia circuitry in both motor and non-motor functions. The paper reports the most advanced perspectives on the role of the cerebellum within the cerebello-basal ganglia-thalamo-cortical system and illustrates other elements of consensus as well as disagreements and open questions in the field.

Working the College System: Six Strategies for Building a Personal Powerbase

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simplicio, Joseph S. C.

2008-01-01

Within each college system there are prescribed formalized methods for accomplishing tasks and achieving established goals. To truly understand how a college, or any large organization functions, it is vital to understand the basis of the formal structure. Those individuals who understand formal systems within a college can use this knowledge to…

Development of human factors guidelines for advanced traveler information systems and commercial vehicle operations : task analysis of ATIS/CVO functions

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1996-11-01

This working paper documents Task E of the present project, Task Analyses for Advanced Traveler Information Systems (ATIS) and Commercial Vehicle Operations (CVO) systems. The goal of Task E is to conduct detailed analyses of the influence of using A...

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

Hugo, Jacques

The software application is called "HFE-Trace". This is an integrated method and tool for the management of Human Factors Engineering analyses and related data. Its primary purpose is to support the coherent and consistent application of the nuclear industry's best practices for human factors engineering work. The software is a custom Microsoft® Access® application. The application is used (in conjunction with other tools such as spreadsheets, checklists and normal documents where necessary) to collect data on the design of a new nuclear power plant from subject matter experts and other sources. This information is then used to identify potential systemmore » and functional breakdowns of the intended power plant design. This information is expanded by developing extensive descriptions of all functions, as well as system performance parameters, operating limits and constraints, and operational conditions. Once these have been verified, the human factors elements are added to each function, including intended operator role, function allocation considerations, prohibited actions, primary task categories, and primary work station. In addition, the application includes a computational method to assess a number of factors such as system and process complexity, workload, environmental conditions, procedures, regulations, etc.) that may shape operator performance. This is a unique methodology based upon principles described in NUREG/CR-3331 ("A methodology for allocating nuclear power plant control functions to human or automatic control") and it results in a semi-quantified allocation of functions to three or more levels of automation for a conceptual automation system. The aggregate of all this information is then linked to the Task Analysis section of the application where the existing information on all operator functions is transformed into task information and ultimately into design requirements for Human-System Interfaces and Control Rooms. This final step includes assessment of methods to prevent potential operator errors.« less

Scheduling a Medium-Sized Manufacturing Shop: A Simulation Study

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-09-01

distinction, elements of work order data include: the minimum machine type required for a work order, as well as the prgramming , set-up, and machining... prevent this from happening. Such a mechanism could take the form of a reprioritization function that is executed after a specified period of time...system for a very long time unless some mechanism is used to prevent this from happening. The jobs left in the system will be the ones that have very

Perceived cognitive function in coronary artery disease--an unrecognised predictor of unemployment.

PubMed

Kiessling, Anna; Henriksson, Peter

2005-08-01

We aimed to assess whether perceived cognitive function influences employment and return to work in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Prospective longitudinal cohort study. Health care system of Södertälje, Stockholm County, Sweden. We included consecutive unselected patients less than 65 years of age with CAD and followed them during 2 years. Gainful employment and return to work in patients with CAD. We found that perceived cognitive function predicts both prevalence of unemployment [OR 2.06 (95% CI: 1.36-3.13); p = 0.0006] and early retirement and sick leave due to coronary artery disease [OR 1.59 (95% CI: 1.12-2.25)] both at baseline and 2 years later. Furthermore, perceived cognitive function predicted return to work after an acute coronary event [OR 2.28 (95% CI: 1.08-4.84)]. Covariates such as age, sex, prevalence and degree of angina (CCS grade), cardiovascular risk factors and events did not change the predictive power. Perceived cognitive function is a hitherto unrecognised independent predictor of unemployment, sick leave and return to work in patients with coronary artery disease. Perceived cognitive function adds a new perspective on ability to gainful employment in patients with CAD. The findings might have significance both to individual care and to society.

The Necessity of Functional Analysis for Space Exploration Programs

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Morris, A. Terry; Breidenthal, Julian C.

2011-01-01

As NASA moves toward expanded commercial spaceflight within its human exploration capability, there is increased emphasis on how to allocate responsibilities between government and commercial organizations to achieve coordinated program objectives. The practice of program-level functional analysis offers an opportunity for improved understanding of collaborative functions among heterogeneous partners. Functional analysis is contrasted with the physical analysis more commonly done at the program level, and is shown to provide theoretical performance, risk, and safety advantages beneficial to a government-commercial partnership. Performance advantages include faster convergence to acceptable system solutions; discovery of superior solutions with higher commonality, greater simplicity and greater parallelism by substituting functional for physical redundancy to achieve robustness and safety goals; and greater organizational cohesion around program objectives. Risk advantages include avoidance of rework by revelation of some kinds of architectural and contractual mismatches before systems are specified, designed, constructed, or integrated; avoidance of cost and schedule growth by more complete and precise specifications of cost and schedule estimates; and higher likelihood of successful integration on the first try. Safety advantages include effective delineation of must-work and must-not-work functions for integrated hazard analysis, the ability to formally demonstrate completeness of safety analyses, and provably correct logic for certification of flight readiness. The key mechanism for realizing these benefits is the development of an inter-functional architecture at the program level, which reveals relationships between top-level system requirements that would otherwise be invisible using only a physical architecture. This paper describes the advantages and pitfalls of functional analysis as a means of coordinating the actions of large heterogeneous organizations for space exploration programs.

Flexible endoscopes: structure and function. The suction and biopsy channel.

PubMed

Holland, P

2001-01-01

Flexible endoscopes are complex medical instruments that are easily damaged. To maintain the flexible endoscope in optimum working condition, the user must have a thorough understanding of the structure and function of the instrument. This is the second in a series of articles presenting an in-depth look at the care and handling of the flexible endoscope. The first article discussed the air and water system. This article will focus specifically on the suction and biopsy channel system. The flexible endoscope is constructed of several systems that operate simultaneously to produce a highly technical, yet effective diagnostic and therapeutic medical device. These systems include the air and water system, the suction or operating channel system, the mechanical system, the endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) elevator system, the optical system, and the electrical system. A review of the internal and external structure of the flexible endoscope and the functions of the channel system, including infection control issues, potential problems and evaluation, and prevention of minor problems to avoid expensive repairs, will be addressed.

Saturation: An efficient iteration strategy for symbolic state-space generation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ciardo, Gianfranco; Luettgen, Gerald; Siminiceanu, Radu; Bushnell, Dennis M. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

This paper presents a novel algorithm for generating state spaces of asynchronous systems using Multi-valued Decision Diagrams. In contrast to related work, the next-state function of a system is not encoded as a single Boolean function, but as cross-products of integer functions. This permits the application of various iteration strategies to build a system's state space. In particular, this paper introduces a new elegant strategy, called saturation, and implements it in the tool SMART. On top of usually performing several orders of magnitude faster than existing BDD-based state-space generators, the algorithm's required peak memory is often close to the nal memory needed for storing the overall state spaces.

A Review of Function Allocation and En Route Separation Assurance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lewis, Timothy A.; Aweiss, Arwa S.; Guerreiro, Nelson M.; Daiker, Ronald J.

2016-01-01

Today's air traffic control system has reached a limit to the number of aircraft that can be safely managed at the same time. This air traffic capacity bottleneck is a critical problem along the path to modernization for air transportation. The design of the next separation assurance system to address this problem is a cornerstone of air traffic management research today. This report reviews recent work by NASA and others in the areas of function allocation and en route separation assurance. This includes: separation assurance algorithms and technology prototypes; concepts of operations and designs for advanced separation assurance systems; and specific investigations into air-ground and human-automation function allocation.

Lighting Control System for Premises with Display Screen Equipment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kudryashov, A. V.

2017-11-01

The use of Display Screen Equipment (DSE) at enterprises allows one to increase the productivity and safety of production, minimize the number of personnel and leads to the simplification of the work of specialists, but on the other side, changes usual working conditions. If the personnel works with displays, visual fatigue develops more quickly which contributes to the emergence of nervous tension, stress and possible erroneous actions. Low interest of the lighting control system developers towards the rooms with displays is dictated by special requirements for coverage by sanitary and hygienic standards (limiting excess workplace illumination). We decided to create a combined lighting system which works considering daylight illumination and artificial light sources. The brightness adjustment of the LED lamps is carried out according to the DALI protocol, adjustment of the natural illumination by means of smart glasses. The technical requirements for a lighting control system, the structural-functional scheme and the algorithm for controlling the operation of the system have been developed. The elements of control units, sensors and actuators have been selected.

Study of Regulatory Mechanisms of Activity of Cardiovascular System by Method of Mathematical Analysis of Heart Rhythm in Workers of Chemical Manufactures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dyachkova, T. V.; Berseneva, I. A.; Zavaltseva, O. A.; Mishina, O. S.

2018-01-01

The article presents the results of the study of heart rate variability indices of workers engaged in the production of phenol-formaldehyde plastics and plastics at the «Karbodin» plant. 112 people aged from 20 to 50 years were studied: control group-workers with experience up to 1 year, practically healthy (n = 30), 1 group-workers with work experience up to 5 years (n = 40), 2 group workers with work experience from 5 to 10 years (n = 42). As a result of the study, violations of the functioning of the heart regulation system were revealed, depending on the length of employment. The effectiveness of the method for studying the regulation of the physiological functions of the circulatory system as well as the early diagnosis of occupational pathology has been established.

Bioinspired spring origami.

PubMed

Faber, Jakob A; Arrieta, Andres F; Studart, André R

2018-03-23

Origami enables folding of objects into a variety of shapes in arts, engineering, and biological systems. In contrast to well-known paper-folded objects, the wing of the earwig has an exquisite natural folding system that cannot be sufficiently described by current origami models. Such an unusual biological system displays incompatible folding patterns, remains open by a bistable locking mechanism during flight, and self-folds rapidly without muscular actuation. We show that these notable functionalities arise from the protein-rich joints of the earwig wing, which work as extensional and rotational springs between facets. Inspired by this biological wing, we establish a spring origami model that broadens the folding design space of traditional origami and allows for the fabrication of precisely tunable, four-dimensional-printed objects with programmable bioinspired morphing functionalities. Copyright © 2018 The Authors, some rights reserved; exclusive licensee American Association for the Advancement of Science. No claim to original U.S. Government Works.

Engine Data Interpretation System (EDIS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cost, Thomas L.; Hofmann, Martin O.

1990-01-01

A prototype of an expert system was developed which applies qualitative or model-based reasoning to the task of post-test analysis and diagnosis of data resulting from a rocket engine firing. A combined component-based and process theory approach is adopted as the basis for system modeling. Such an approach provides a framework for explaining both normal and deviant system behavior in terms of individual component functionality. The diagnosis function is applied to digitized sensor time-histories generated during engine firings. The generic system is applicable to any liquid rocket engine but was adapted specifically in this work to the Space Shuttle Main Engine (SSME). The system is applied to idealized data resulting from turbomachinery malfunction in the SSME.

Enhancement of humidity sensitivity of graphene through functionalization with polyethylenimine

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

Ben Aziza, Zeineb; School of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Block S1, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798; XLIM UMR 7252 Université de Limoges/CNRS, 123 Avenue Albert Thomas, 87060 Limoges

2015-09-28

In this work, we show that the sensing performance of graphene based humidity sensors can be largely improved through polymer functionalization. Chemical vapor deposited graphene is functionalized with amine rich polymer, leading to electron transfer from amine groups in the polymer to graphene. The functionalized graphene humidity sensor has demonstrated good sensitivity, recovery, and repeatability. Charge transfer between the functionalized graphene and water molecules and the sensing mechanism are studied systemically using field effect transistor geometry and scanning Kelvin probe microscopy.

System Control for the Transitional DCS.

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-07-01

ELEMENT. PROJI Honeywell System and Research Center AREA & WORK UNIT NUMBE Aerospace and Defense Group 2700 Ridgway Parkway, Minneapolis,MN 55413 It1...performance monitoring and stress isolation system for the terrestrial transmission system. The satellite system is assumed to be under the control of its...the routing tables could be in a failed condition while some other route, although less efficient, is still functioning. The recommended adaptive

Work function determination of promising electrode materials for thermionic energy converters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jacobson, D.; Storms, E.; Skaggs, B.; Kouts, T.; Jaskie, J.; Manda, M.

1976-01-01

The work function determinations of candidate materials for low temperature (1400 K) thermionics through vacuum emission tests are discussed. Two systems, a vacuum emission test vehicle and a thermionic emission microscope are used for emission measurements. Some nickel and cobalt based super alloys were preliminarily examined. High temperature physical properties and corrosion behavior of some super alloy candidates are presented. The corrosion behavior of sodium is of particular interest since topping cycles might use sodium heat transfer loops. A Marchuk tube was designed for plasma discharge studies with the carbide and possibly some super alloy samples. A series of metal carbides and other alloys were fabricated and tested in a special high temperature mass spectrometer. This information coupled with work function determinations was evaluated in an attempt to learn how electron bonding occurs in transition alloys.

Relations between the Woodcock-Johnson III Clinical Clusters and Measures of Executive Functions from the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Floyd, Randy G.; McCormack, Allison C.; Ingram, Elizabeth L.; Davis, Amy E.; Bergeron, Renee; Hamilton, Gloria

2006-01-01

This study examined the convergent relations between scores from four clinical clusters from the Woodcock-Johnson III Tests of Cognitive Abilities (WJ III) and measures of executive functions using a sample of school-aged children and a sample of adults. The WJ III clinical clusters included the Working Memory, Cognitive Fluency, Broad Attention,…

Targeting, Air Force Doctrine Document 2-1.9

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-06-08

Target system analysis ( TSA ), as its name implies, approaches targets and target sets as systems to determine vulnerabilities and exploitable...weaknesses. Targeteers review how a functional target system works as a whole and analyze the interactions between components. TSA takes a system-of...effectiveness of target development. TSA begins in peacetime, before the commencement of conflict, and is accomplished with federated support and

A Novel Attitude Determination System Aided by Polarization Sensor

PubMed Central

Zhi, Wei; Chu, Jinkui; Li, Jinshan; Wang, Yinlong

2018-01-01

This paper aims to develop a novel attitude determination system aided by polarization sensor. An improved heading angle function is derived using the perpendicular relationship between directions of E-vector of linearly polarized light and solar vector in the atmospheric polarization distribution model. The Extended Kalman filter (EKF) with quaternion differential equation as a dynamic model is applied to fuse the data from sensors. The covariance functions of filter process and measurement noises are deduced in detail. The indoor and outdoor tests are conducted to verify the validity and feasibility of proposed attitude determination system. The test results showed that polarization sensor is not affected by magnetic field, thus the proposed system can work properly in environments containing the magnetic interference. The results also showed that proposed system has higher measurement accuracy than common attitude determination system and can provide precise parameters for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) flight control. The main contribution of this paper is implementation of the EKF for incorporating the self-developed polarization sensor into the conventional attitude determination system. The real-world experiment with the quad-rotor proved that proposed system can work in a magnetic interference environment and provide sufficient accuracy in attitude determination for autonomous navigation of vehicle. PMID:29315256

[The testing system for OCP of the digital X-ray machine].

PubMed

Wang, Yan; Mo, Guoming; Wang, Juru; Zhou, Tao; Yu, Jianguo

2011-09-01

In this paper, we designed a testing system for operator control panel of a high-voltage and high-frequency X-ray machine, and an online testing software for functional components, in order to help the testing engineers to improve their work efficiency.

Designing for human presence in space: An introduction to environmental control and life support systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wieland, Paul

1994-01-01

Human exploration and utilization of space requires habitats to provide appropriate conditions for working and living. These conditions are provided by environmental control and life support systems (ECLSS) that ensure appropriate atmosphere composition, pressure, and temperature; manage and distribute water, process waste matter, provide fire detection and suppression; and other functions as necessary. The functions that are performed by ECLSS are described and basic information necessary to design an ECLSS is provided. Technical and programmatic aspects of designing and developing ECLSS for space habitats are described including descriptions of technologies, analysis methods, test requirements, program organization, documentation requirements, and the requirements imposed by medical, mission, safety, and system needs. The design and development process is described from initial trade studies through system-level analyses to support operation. ECLSS needs for future space habitats are also described. Extensive listings of references and related works provide sources for more detailed information on each aspect of ECLSS design and development.

A study on M/G/1 retrial G - queue with two phases of service, immediate feedback and working vacations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Varalakshmi, M.; Chandrasekaran, V. M.; Saravanarajan, M. C.

2017-11-01

In this paper, we discuss about the steady state behaviour of M/G/1 retrial queueing system with two phases of services and immediate feedbacks under working vacation policy where the regular busy server is affected due to the arrival of negative customers. Upon arrival if the customer finds the server busy, breakdown or on working vacation it enters an orbit; otherwise the customer enters into the service area immediately. After service completion, the customer is allowed to make finite number of immediate feedback. The feedback service also consists of two phases. At the service completion epoch of a positive customer, if the orbit is empty the server goes for a working vacation. The server works at a lower service rate during working vacation (WV) period. Using the supplementary variable technique, we found out the steady state probability generating function for the system and in orbit. System performance measures and reliability measures are discussed. Finally, some numerical examples are presented to validate the analyticalresults.

Responding to Changing Skill Demands: Training Packages and Accredited Courses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Misko, Josie

2010-01-01

This report, commissioned by the federal Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR), investigates whether vocational education and training (VET) has adapted to meet the changing needs of work. It provides examples of how work has changed for different occupations and functions, and how systemic mechanisms such as training…

New Directions in Library and Information Science Education. Final Report. Volume 2.6: Database Distributor/Service Professional Competencies.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Griffiths, Jose-Marie; And Others

This document contains validated activities and competencies needed by librarians working in a database distributor/service organization. The activities of professionals working in database distributor/service organizations are listed by function: Database Processing; Customer Support; System Administration; and Planning. The competencies are…

Dysfunctional Workers, Functional Texts: The Transformation of Work in Institutional Procedure Manuals.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sullivan, Francis J.

1997-01-01

Examines how conflicts between management and workers over division of labor are enacted in two manuals--the official manual operationalizing Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations and a "translation" of the official manual--governing tax examiners' work in an IRS Service Center. Finds that systemic differences between the manuals…

An Expert Supervisor For A Robotic Work Cell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moed, M. C.; Kelley, R. B.

1988-02-01

To increase task flexibility in a robotic assembly environment, a hierarchical planning and execution system is being developed which will map user specified 3D part assembly tasks into various target robotic work cells, and execute these tasks efficiently using manipulators and sensors available in the work cell. One level of this hierarchy, the Supervisor, is responsible for assigning subtasks of a system generated Task Plan to a set of task specific Specialists and on-line coordination of the activity of these Specialists to accomplish the user specified assembly. The design of the Supervisor can be broken down into five major functional blocks: resource management; concurrency detection; task scheduling; error recovery; and interprocess communication. The Supervisor implementation has been completed on a VAX 11/750 under a Unix environment. PC card Pick-Insert experiments were performed to test this implementation. To test the robustness of the architecture, the Supervisor was then transported to a new work cell under a VMS environment. The experiments performed under Supervisor control in both implementations are discussed after a brief explanation of the functional blocks of the Supervisor and the other levels in the hierarchy.

Development of a Design Supporting System for Nano-Materials based on a Framework for Integrated Knowledge of Functioning-Manufacturing Process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarumi, Shinya; Kozaki, Kouji; Kitamura, Yoshinobu; Mizoguchi, Riichiro

In the recent materials research, much work aims at realization of ``functional materials'' by changing structure and/or manufacturing process with nanotechnology. However, knowledge about the relationship among function, structure and manufacturing process is not well organized. So, material designers have to consider a lot of things at the same time. It would be very helpful for them to support their design process by a computer system. In this article, we discuss a conceptual design supporting system for nano-materials. Firstly, we consider a framework for representing functional structures and manufacturing processes of nano-materials with relationships among them. We expand our former framework for representing functional knowledge based on our investigation through discussion with experts of nano-materials. The extended framework has two features: 1) it represents functional structures and manufacturing processes comprehensively, 2) it expresses parameters of function and ways with their dependencies because they are important for material design. Next, we describe a conceptual design support system we developed based on the framework with its functionalities. Lastly, we evaluate the utility of our system in terms of functionality for design supports. For this purpose, we tried to represent two real examples of material design. And then we did an evaluation experiment on conceptual design of material using our system with the collaboration of domain experts.

3D models as a platform for urban analysis and studies on human perception of space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fisher-Gewirtzman, D.

2012-10-01

The objective of this work is to develop an integrated visual analysis and modelling for environmental and urban systems in respect to interior space layout and functionality. This work involves interdisciplinary research efforts that focus primarily on architecture design discipline, yet incorporates experts from other and different disciplines, such as Geoinformatics, computer sciences and environment-behavior studies. This work integrates an advanced Spatial Openness Index (SOI) model within realistic geovisualized Geographical Information System (GIS) environment and assessment using subjective residents' evaluation. The advanced SOI model measures the volume of visible space at any required view point practically, for every room or function. This model enables accurate 3D simulation of the built environment regarding built structure and surrounding vegetation. This paper demonstrates the work on a case study. A 3D model of Neve-Shaanan neighbourhood in Haifa was developed. Students that live in this neighbourhood had participated in this research. Their apartments were modelled in details and inserted into a general model, representing topography and the volumes of buildings. The visual space for each room in every apartment was documented and measured and at the same time the students were asked to answer questions regarding their perception of space and view from their residence. The results of this research work had shown potential contribution to professional users, such as researchers, designers and city planners. This model can be easily used by professionals and by non-professionals such as city dwellers, contractors and developers. This work continues with additional case studies having different building typologies and functions variety, using virtual reality tools.

Fabrication of functional PLGA-based electrospun scaffolds and their applications in biomedical engineering.

PubMed

Zhao, Wen; Li, Jiaojiao; Jin, Kaixiang; Liu, Wenlong; Qiu, Xuefeng; Li, Chenrui

2016-02-01

Electrospun PLGA-based scaffolds have been applied extensively in biomedical engineering, such as tissue engineering and drug delivery system. Due to lack of the recognition sites on cells, hydropholicity and single-function, the applications of PLGA fibrous scaffolds are limited. In order to tackle these issues, many works have been done to obtain functional PLGA-based scaffolds, including surface modifications, the fabrication of PLGA-based composite scaffolds and drug-loaded scaffolds. The functional PLGA-based scaffolds have significantly improved cell adhesion, attachment and proliferation. Moreover, the current study has summarized the applications of functional PLGA-based scaffolds in wound dressing, vascular and bone tissue engineering area as well as drug delivery system. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Secondary osteoporosis or secondary contributors to bone loss in fracture. Endocrinological aspects of bone metabolism].

PubMed

Fukumoto, Seiji

2013-09-01

Bone works to play essential roles in mineral metabolism and hematopoiesis as well as to support our body and protect internal organs as a hard tissue. In order to accomplish these multiple functions, bone needs to communicate with other organs. Endocrine system functions as one of the communication pathways between bone and other organs. It has been known that bone is a target organ of many hormones. In addition, it has been established that bone itself produces hormones and works as an endocrine organ.

JPRS Report, East Europe

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-10-10

Socialist Care The same system of utilizing entrepreneurial activity is applied down to the individual work area. The employee (tractor driver, animal...sentative from among their ranks who, in addition to his work duties, takes care of the functions of chief (ensures communication with the operations chief...create an operational account for the work area at the higher level of socialist care . The account keeps track of income and expenditures on which

ANL/RBC: A computer code for the analysis of Rankine bottoming cycles, including system cost evaluation and off-design performance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mclennan, G. A.

1986-01-01

This report describes, and is a User's Manual for, a computer code (ANL/RBC) which calculates cycle performance for Rankine bottoming cycles extracting heat from a specified source gas stream. The code calculates cycle power and efficiency and the sizes for the heat exchangers, using tabular input of the properties of the cycle working fluid. An option is provided to calculate the costs of system components from user defined input cost functions. These cost functions may be defined in equation form or by numerical tabular data. A variety of functional forms have been included for these functions and they may be combined to create very general cost functions. An optional calculation mode can be used to determine the off-design performance of a system when operated away from the design-point, using the heat exchanger areas calculated for the design-point.

Evolving virtual creatures and catapults.

PubMed

Chaumont, Nicolas; Egli, Richard; Adami, Christoph

2007-01-01

We present a system that can evolve the morphology and the controller of virtual walking and block-throwing creatures (catapults) using a genetic algorithm. The system is based on Sims' work, implemented as a flexible platform with an off-the-shelf dynamics engine. Experiments aimed at evolving Sims-type walkers resulted in the emergence of various realistic gaits while using fairly simple objective functions. Due to the flexibility of the system, drastically different morphologies and functions evolved with only minor modifications to the system and objective function. For example, various throwing techniques evolved when selecting for catapults that propel a block as far as possible. Among the strategies and morphologies evolved, we find the drop-kick strategy, as well as the systematic invention of the principle behind the wheel, when allowing mutations to the projectile.

Maxwell Demon Dynamics: Deterministic Chaos, the Szilard Map, and the Intelligence of Thermodynamic Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boyd, Alexander B.; Crutchfield, James P.

2016-05-01

We introduce a deterministic chaotic system—the Szilard map—that encapsulates the measurement, control, and erasure protocol by which Maxwellian demons extract work from a heat reservoir. Implementing the demon's control function in a dynamical embodiment, our construction symmetrizes the demon and the thermodynamic system, allowing one to explore their functionality and recover the fundamental trade-off between the thermodynamic costs of dissipation due to measurement and those due to erasure. The map's degree of chaos—captured by the Kolmogorov-Sinai entropy—is the rate of energy extraction from the heat bath. Moreover, an engine's statistical complexity quantifies the minimum necessary system memory for it to function. In this way, dynamical instability in the control protocol plays an essential and constructive role in intelligent thermodynamic systems.

Patterning in systems driven by nonlocal external forces.

PubMed

Luneville, L; Mallick, K; Pontikis, V; Simeone, D

2016-11-01

This work focuses on systems displaying domain patterns resulting from competing external and internal dynamics. To this end, we introduce a Lyapunov functional capable of describing the steady states of systems subject to external forces, by adding nonlocal terms to the Landau Ginzburg free energy of the system. Thereby, we extend the existing methodology treating long-range order interactions, to the case of external nonlocal forces. By studying the quadratic term of this Lyapunov functional, we compute the phase diagram in the temperature versus external field and we determine all possible modulated phases (domain patterns) as a function of the external forces and the temperature. Finally, we investigate patterning in chemical reactive mixtures and binary mixtures under irradiation, and we show that the last case opens the path toward micro-structural engineering of materials.

Patterning in systems driven by nonlocal external forces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Luneville, L.; Mallick, K.; Pontikis, V.; Simeone, D.

2016-11-01

This work focuses on systems displaying domain patterns resulting from competing external and internal dynamics. To this end, we introduce a Lyapunov functional capable of describing the steady states of systems subject to external forces, by adding nonlocal terms to the Landau Ginzburg free energy of the system. Thereby, we extend the existing methodology treating long-range order interactions, to the case of external nonlocal forces. By studying the quadratic term of this Lyapunov functional, we compute the phase diagram in the temperature versus external field and we determine all possible modulated phases (domain patterns) as a function of the external forces and the temperature. Finally, we investigate patterning in chemical reactive mixtures and binary mixtures under irradiation, and we show that the last case opens the path toward micro-structural engineering of materials.

Working-memory capacity protects model-based learning from stress.

PubMed

Otto, A Ross; Raio, Candace M; Chiang, Alice; Phelps, Elizabeth A; Daw, Nathaniel D

2013-12-24

Accounts of decision-making have long posited the operation of separate, competing valuation systems in the control of choice behavior. Recent theoretical and experimental advances suggest that this classic distinction between habitual and goal-directed (or more generally, automatic and controlled) choice may arise from two computational strategies for reinforcement learning, called model-free and model-based learning. Popular neurocomputational accounts of reward processing emphasize the involvement of the dopaminergic system in model-free learning and prefrontal, central executive-dependent control systems in model-based choice. Here we hypothesized that the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis stress response--believed to have detrimental effects on prefrontal cortex function--should selectively attenuate model-based contributions to behavior. To test this, we paired an acute stressor with a sequential decision-making task that affords distinguishing the relative contributions of the two learning strategies. We assessed baseline working-memory (WM) capacity and used salivary cortisol levels to measure HPA axis stress response. We found that stress response attenuates the contribution of model-based, but not model-free, contributions to behavior. Moreover, stress-induced behavioral changes were modulated by individual WM capacity, such that low-WM-capacity individuals were more susceptible to detrimental stress effects than high-WM-capacity individuals. These results enrich existing accounts of the interplay between acute stress, working memory, and prefrontal function and suggest that executive function may be protective against the deleterious effects of acute stress.

Executive functioning and substance use in adolescence: Neurobiological and behavioral perspectives.

PubMed

Kim-Spoon, Jungmeen; Kahn, Rachel E; Lauharatanahirun, Nina; Deater-Deckard, Kirby; Bickel, Warren K; Chiu, Pearl H; King-Casas, Brooks

2017-06-01

The current review is guided by the theoretical perspective that emphasizes the regulating role of executive functioning (Carver et al., 2009) and presents studies that elucidate the ways that executive functioning (inhibition and working memory) explain individual differences in adolescent substance use independently or by regulating the reactive system (reward and punishment sensitivity). Behavioral studies indicate that main effects of executive functioning on adolescent substance use are often nonsignificant or weak in effect sizes. In contrast, emerging evidence suggests consistent and stronger regulating effects of executive functioning over reward and punishment sensitivity. Functional neuroimaging studies reveal significant associations between executive functioning task-related hemodynamic responses and substance use with strong effect sizes. There is also direct evidence from studies testing statistical interactions of the regulating effects of EF-related brain activation, and indirect evidence in studies examining functional connectivity, temporal discounting, and reinforced control. We note key future directions and ways to address limitations in existing work. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Association between mental demands at work and cognitive functioning in the general population - results of the health study of the Leipzig research center for civilization diseases (LIFE).

PubMed

Then, Francisca S; Luck, Tobias; Luppa, Melanie; Arélin, Katrin; Schroeter, Matthias L; Engel, Christoph; Löffler, Markus; Thiery, Joachim; Villringer, Arno; Riedel-Heller, Steffi G

2014-01-01

The level of mental demands in the workplace is rising. The present study investigated whether and how mental demands at work are associated with cognitive functioning in the general population. The analysis is based on data of the Health Study of the Leipzig Research Centre for Civilization Disease (LIFE). 2,725 participants aged 40-80 years underwent cognitive testing (Trail-Making Test, Verbal Fluency Test) and provided information on their occupational situation. Participants over the age of 65 years additionally completed the Mini-Mental State Examination. Mental demands at work were rated by a standardized classification system (O*NET). The association between mental demands and cognitive functioning was analyzed using Generalized Linear Modeling (GENLIN) adjusted for age, gender, self-regulation, working hour status, education, and health-related factors. Univariate as well as multivariate analyses demonstrated significant and highly consistent effects of higher mental demands on better performance in cognitive testing. The results also indicated that the effects are independent of education and intelligence. Moreover, analyses of retired individuals implied a significant association between high mental demands at work of the job they once held and a better cognitive functioning in old age. In sum, our findings suggest a significant association between high mental demands at work and better cognitive functioning. In this sense, higher levels of mental demands - as brought about by technological changes in the working environment - may also have beneficial effects for the society as they could increase cognitive capacity levels and might even delay cognitive decline in old age.

Civilian Manpower Cost Controls Automated Data System: Functional Description,

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-12-07

1.2 Project References 1-1 1.3 Terms and Abbreviations 1-3 2 SYSTEM SUMMARY 2-1 2.1 Background 2-1 2.2 Objective 2-2 2.3 Existing Methods and...Procedures 2-3 2.4 Proposed Methods and Procedures 2-18 2.5 Assumptions and Constraints 2-33 3 DETAILED CHARACTERISTICS 3-1 3.1 Specific Performance...of the most critical of Army resources and a key partner is the civilian work force. Maintanance of the large professional civilian work force

Earth Observatory Satellite system definition study. Report no. 3: Design/cost tradeoff studies. Appendix A: EOS program WBS dictionary. Appendix B: EOS mission functional analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

The work breakdown structure (WBS) dictionary for the Earth Observatory Satellite (EOS) is defined. The various elements of the EOS program are examined to include the aggregate of hardware, computer software, services, and data required to develop, produce, test, support, and operate the space vehicle and the companion ground data management system. A functional analysis of the EOS mission is developed. The operations for three typical EOS missions, Delta, Titan, and Shuttle launched are considered. The functions were determined for the top program elements, and the mission operations, function 2.0, was expanded to level one functions. Selection of ten level one functions for further analysis to level two and three functions were based on concern for the EOS operations and associated interfaces.

Software Reviews.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wulfson, Stephen, Ed.

1990-01-01

Reviewed are six computer software packages including "Lunar Greenhouse,""Dyno-Quest,""How Weather Works,""Animal Trackers,""Personal Science Laboratory," and "The Skeletal and Muscular Systems." Availability, functional, and hardware requirements are discussed. (CW)

Functional networks in parallel with cortical development associate with executive functions in children.

PubMed

Zhong, Jidan; Rifkin-Graboi, Anne; Ta, Anh Tuan; Yap, Kar Lai; Chuang, Kai-Hsiang; Meaney, Michael J; Qiu, Anqi

2014-07-01

Children begin performing similarly to adults on tasks requiring executive functions in late childhood, a transition that is probably due to neuroanatomical fine-tuning processes, including myelination and synaptic pruning. In parallel to such structural changes in neuroanatomical organization, development of functional organization may also be associated with cognitive behaviors in children. We examined 6- to 10-year-old children's cortical thickness, functional organization, and cognitive performance. We used structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify areas with cortical thinning, resting-state fMRI to identify functional organization in parallel to cortical development, and working memory/response inhibition tasks to assess executive functioning. We found that neuroanatomical changes in the form of cortical thinning spread over bilateral frontal, parietal, and occipital regions. These regions were engaged in 3 functional networks: sensorimotor and auditory, executive control, and default mode network. Furthermore, we found that working memory and response inhibition only associated with regional functional connectivity, but not topological organization (i.e., local and global efficiency of information transfer) of these functional networks. Interestingly, functional connections associated with "bottom-up" as opposed to "top-down" processing were more clearly related to children's performance on working memory and response inhibition, implying an important role for brain systems involved in late childhood. © The Author 2013. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Modeling Pumped Thermal Energy Storage with Waste Heat Harvesting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abarr, Miles L. Lindsey

This work introduces a new concept for a utility scale combined energy storage and generation system. The proposed design utilizes a pumped thermal energy storage (PTES) system, which also utilizes waste heat leaving a natural gas peaker plant. This system creates a low cost utility-scale energy storage system by leveraging this dual-functionality. This dissertation first presents a review of previous work in PTES as well as the details of the proposed integrated bottoming and energy storage system. A time-domain system model was developed in Mathworks R2016a Simscape and Simulink software to analyze this system. Validation of both the fluid state model and the thermal energy storage model are provided. The experimental results showed the average error in cumulative fluid energy between simulation and measurement was +/- 0.3% per hour. Comparison to a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) model showed <1% error for bottoming mode heat transfer. The system model was used to conduct sensitivity analysis, baseline performance, and levelized cost of energy of a recently proposed Pumped Thermal Energy Storage and Bottoming System (Bot-PTES) that uses ammonia as the working fluid. This analysis focused on the effects of hot thermal storage utilization, system pressure, and evaporator/condenser size on the system performance. This work presents the estimated performance for a proposed baseline Bot-PTES. Results of this analysis showed that all selected parameters had significant effects on efficiency, with the evaporator/condenser size having the largest effect over the selected ranges. Results for the baseline case showed stand-alone energy storage efficiencies between 51 and 66% for varying power levels and charge states, and a stand-alone bottoming efficiency of 24%. The resulting efficiencies for this case were low compared to competing technologies; however, the dual-functionality of the Bot-PTES enables it to have higher capacity factor, leading to 91-197/MWh levelized cost of energy compared to 262-284/MWh for batteries and $172-254/MWh for Compressed Air Energy Storage.

Cosmos and Rulership: The Function of Olmec-Style Symbols in Formative Period Mesoamerica.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Reilly, F. Kent III

1990-01-01

States that iconographic investigations of Olmec style art works have produced convincing evidence that rulership during the Early and Middle Formative Period of Mesoamerican prehistory was publicly legitimized by a visual charter. Shows that the charter's naturally derived symbols functioned within a system which stressed the human ruler's access…

Increasing component functionality via multi-process additive manufacturing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Coronel, Jose L.; Fehr, Katherine H.; Kelly, Dominic D.; Espalin, David; Wicker, Ryan B.

2017-05-01

Additively manufactured components, although extensively customizable, are often limited in functionality. Multi-process additive manufacturing (AM) grants the ability to increase the functionality of components via subtractive manufacturing, wire embedding, foil embedding and pick and place. These processes are scalable to include several platforms ranging from desktop to large area printers. The Multi3D System is highlighted, possessing the capability to perform the above mentioned processes, all while transferring a fabricated component with a robotic arm. Work was conducted to fabricate a patent inspired, printed missile seeker. The seeker demonstrated the advantage of multi-process AM via introduction of the pick and place process. Wire embedding was also explored, with the successful interconnect of two layers of embedded wires in different planes. A final demonstration of a printed contour bracket, served to show the reduction of surface roughness on a printed part is 87.5% when subtractive manufacturing is implemented in tandem with AM. Functionality of the components on all the cases was improved. Results included optical components embedded within the printed housing, wires embedded with interconnection, and reduced surface roughness. These results highlight the improved functionality of components through multi-process AM, specifically through work conducted with the Multi3D System.

48 CFR 3052.209-75 - Prohibited financial interests for lead system integrators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... for the development or production of a major system, if the prime contractor is not expected at the time of award to perform a substantial portion of the work on the system and the major subsystems. (4... procurement of services, the primary purpose of which is to perform acquisition functions closely associated...

48 CFR 252.209-7007 - Prohibited Financial Interests for Lead System Integrators.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... contractor for the development or production of a major system, if the prime contractor is not expected at the time of award to perform a substantial portion of the work on the system and the major subsystems... for the procurement of services, the primary purpose of which is to perform acquisition functions...

Mathematics Teaching and Learning in Rural Contexts: A Social Systems Perspective. Working Paper.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arnold, Michael L.

Mathematics education is different in rural schools than in non-rural schools. An explanation for this can be found in an open social systems model of schools, in which schools are comprised of interdependent subsystems that function together to transform inputs into outcomes. These are open systems in that external forces in the environment…

Advanced information processing system: Inter-computer communication services

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burkhardt, Laura; Masotto, Tom; Sims, J. Terry; Whittredge, Roy; Alger, Linda S.

1991-01-01

The purpose is to document the functional requirements and detailed specifications for the Inter-Computer Communications Services (ICCS) of the Advanced Information Processing System (AIPS). An introductory section is provided to outline the overall architecture and functional requirements of the AIPS and to present an overview of the ICCS. An overview of the AIPS architecture as well as a brief description of the AIPS software is given. The guarantees of the ICCS are provided, and the ICCS is described as a seven-layered International Standards Organization (ISO) Model. The ICCS functional requirements, functional design, and detailed specifications as well as each layer of the ICCS are also described. A summary of results and suggestions for future work are presented.

The neuropsychopharmacology of fronto-executive function: monoaminergic modulation.

PubMed

Robbins, T W; Arnsten, A F T

2009-01-01

We review the modulatory effects of the catecholamine neurotransmitters noradrenaline and dopamine on prefrontal cortical function. The effects of pharmacologic manipulations of these systems, sometimes in comparison with the indoleamine serotonin (5-HT), on performance on a variety of tasks that tap working memory, attentional-set formation and shifting, reversal learning, and response inhibition are compared in rodents, nonhuman primates, and humans using, in a behavioral context, several techniques ranging from microiontophoresis and single-cell electrophysiological recording to pharmacologic functional magnetic resonance imaging. Dissociable effects of drugs and neurotoxins affecting these monoamine systems suggest new ways of conceptualizing state-dependent fronto-executive functions, with implications for understanding the molecular genetic basis of mental illness and its treatment.

Designing To Learn about Complex Systems.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hmelo, Cindy E.; Holton, Douglas L.; Kolodner, Janet L.

2000-01-01

Indicates the presence of complex structural, behavioral, and functional relations to understanding. Reports on a design experiment in which 6th grade children learned about the human respiratory system by designing artificial lungs and building partial working models. Makes suggestions for successful learning from design activities. (Contains 44…

Object-oriented Tools for Distributed Computing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Adler, Richard M.

1993-01-01

Distributed computing systems are proliferating, owing to the availability of powerful, affordable microcomputers and inexpensive communication networks. A critical problem in developing such systems is getting application programs to interact with one another across a computer network. Remote interprogram connectivity is particularly challenging across heterogeneous environments, where applications run on different kinds of computers and operating systems. NetWorks! (trademark) is an innovative software product that provides an object-oriented messaging solution to these problems. This paper describes the design and functionality of NetWorks! and illustrates how it is being used to build complex distributed applications for NASA and in the commercial sector.

Mobile impurities in ferromagnetic liquids

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kantian, Adrian; Schollwoeck, Ulrich; Giamarchi, Thierry

2011-03-01

Recent work has shown that mobile impurities in one dimensional interacting systems may exhibit behaviour that differs strongly from that predicted by standard Tomonaga-Luttinger liquid theory, with the appearance of power-law divergences in the spectral function signifying sublinear diffusion of the impurity. Using time-dependent matrix product states, we investigate a range of cases of mobile impurities in systems beyond the analytically accessible examples to assess the existence of a new universality class of low-energy physics in one-dimensional systems. Correspondence: Adrian.Kantian@unige.ch This work was supported in part by the Swiss SNF under MaNEP and division II.

DBMS UTILIZATION: A Corporate Information System (CIS) development approach

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rozett, P.

1983-01-01

The Corporate Information System (CIS), an integrated information system intended to tie the corporation together as a functioning entity, is described. In addition to being a major upgraded automated data processing system, the CIS is a management philosophy which recognizes data as a valuable corporate resource and which distinguishes between data and selected data, or information. It further recognizes that different users need different kinds of information. Plans for CIS development are discussed. It will offer its users not just after-the-fact data, but timely information in a format that is meaningful and useful to the particular user, so that the information can be applied in planning, controlling, and decision making by all levels of management. In effect, CIS will help the corporation itself to function as a total, integrated system by typing together administrative activities through information exchange. The CIS supports the operational, tactical control, and strategic planning functions of the corporation. Operational functions are the day-to-day processing necessary to support the corporation's work, such as purchasing and payroll.

Early evaluation of MDIS workstations at Madigan Army Medical Center

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leckie, Robert G.; Goeringer, Fred; Smith, Donald V.; Bender, Gregory N.; Choi, Hyung-Sik; Haynor, David R.; Kim, Yongmin

1993-06-01

The image viewing workstation is an all-important link in the PACS (Picture Archiving and Communications System) chain since it represents the interface between the system and the user. For PACS to function, the working environment and transfer of information to the user must be the same or better than the traditional film-based system. The important characteristics of a workstation from a clinical standpoint are acceptable image quality, rapid response time, a friendly user interface, and a well-integrated, highly-reliable, fault-tolerant system which provides the user ample functions to complete his tasks successfully. Since early 1992, the MDIS (Medical Diagnostic Imaging Support) system's diagnostic and clinical workstations have been installed at Madigan Army Medical Center. Various functionalities and performance characteristics of the MDIS workstations such as image display, response time, database, and ergonomics will be presented. User comments and early experience with the workstations as well as new functionality recommended for the future will be discussed.

Koopmans-Compliant Spectral Functionals for Extended Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, Ngoc Linh; Colonna, Nicola; Ferretti, Andrea; Marzari, Nicola

2018-04-01

Koopmans-compliant functionals have been shown to provide accurate spectral properties for molecular systems; this accuracy is driven by the generalized linearization condition imposed on each charged excitation, i.e., on changing the occupation of any orbital in the system, while accounting for screening and relaxation from all other electrons. In this work, we discuss the theoretical formulation and the practical implementation of this formalism to the case of extended systems, where a third condition, the localization of Koopmans's orbitals, proves crucial to reach seamlessly the thermodynamic limit. We illustrate the formalism by first studying one-dimensional molecular systems of increasing length. Then, we consider the band gaps of 30 paradigmatic solid-state test cases, for which accurate experimental and computational results are available. The results are found to be comparable with the state of the art in many-body perturbation theory, notably using just a functional formulation for spectral properties and the generalized-gradient approximation for the exchange and correlation functional.

SAFEGUARD: An Assured Safety Net Technology for UAS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dill, Evan T.; Young, Steven D.; Hayhurst, Kelly J.

2016-01-01

As demands increase to use unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for a broad spectrum of commercial applications, regulatory authorities are examining how to safely integrate them without loss of safety or major disruption to existing airspace operations. This work addresses the development of the Safeguard system as an assured safety net technology for UAS. The Safeguard system monitors and enforces conformance to a set of rules defined prior to flight (e.g., geospatial stay-out or stay-in regions, speed limits, altitude limits). Safeguard operates independently of the UAS autopilot and is strategically designed in a way that can be realized by a small set of verifiable functions to simplify compliance with regulatory standards for commercial aircraft. A framework is described that decouples the system from any other devices on the UAS as well as introduces complementary positioning source(s) for applications that require integrity and availability beyond what the Global Positioning System (GPS) can provide. Additionally, the high level logic embedded within the software is presented, as well as the steps being taken toward verification and validation (V&V) of proper functionality. Next, an initial prototype implementation of the described system is disclosed. Lastly, future work including development, testing, and system V&V is summarized.

[Health management system in outpatient follow-up of kidney transplantation patients].

PubMed

Zhang, Hong; Xie, Jinliang; Yao, Hui; Liu, Ling; Tan, Jianwen; Geng, Chunmi

2014-07-01

To develop a health management system for outpatient follow-up of kidney transplant patients. Access 2010 database software was used to establish the health management system for kidney transplantation patients in Windows XP operating system. Database management and post-operation follow-up of the kidney transplantation patients were realized through 6 function modules including data input, data query, data printing, questionnaire survey, data export, and follow-up management. The system worked stably and reliably, and the data input was easy and fast. The query, the counting and printing were convenient. Health management system for patients after kidney transplantation not only reduces the work pressure of the follow-up staff, but also improves the efficiency of outpatient follow-up.

Quantum Dynamics of Multi Harmonic Oscillators Described by Time Variant Conic Hamiltonian and their Use in Contemporary Sciences

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

Demiralp, Metin

This work focuses on the dynamics of a system of quantum multi harmonic oscillators whose Hamiltonian is conic in positions and momenta with time variant coefficients. While it is simple, this system is useful for modeling the dynamics of a number of systems in contemporary sciences where the equations governing spatial or temporal changes are described by sets of ODEs. The dynamical causal models used readily in neuroscience can be indirectly described by these systems. In this work, we want to show that it is possible to describe these systems using quantum wave function type entities and expectations if themore » dynamic of the system is related to a set of ODEs.« less

Respiratory care management information systems.

PubMed

Ford, Richard M

2004-04-01

Hospital-wide computerized information systems evolved from the need to capture patient information and perform billing and other financial functions. These systems, however, have fallen short of meeting the needs of respiratory care departments regarding work load assessment, productivity management, and the level of outcome reporting required to support programs such as patient-driven protocols. The respiratory care management information systems (RCMIS) of today offer many advantages over paper-based systems and hospital-wide computer systems. RCMIS are designed to facilitate functions specific to respiratory care, including assessing work demand, assigning and tracking resources, charting, billing, and reporting results. RCMIS incorporate mobile, point-of-care charting and are highly configurable to meet the specific needs of individual respiratory care departments. Important and substantial benefits can be realized with an RCMIS and mobile, wireless charting devices. The initial and ongoing costs of an RCMIS are justified by increased charge capture and reduced costs, by way of improved productivity and efficiency. It is not unusual to recover the total cost of an RCMIS within the first year of its operation. In addition, such systems can facilitate and monitor patient-care protocols and help to efficiently manage the vast amounts of information encountered during the practitioner's workday. Respiratory care departments that invest in RCMIS have an advantage in the provision of quality care and in reducing expenses. A centralized respiratory therapy department with an RCMIS is the most efficient and cost-effective way to monitor work demand and manage the hospital-wide allocation of respiratory care services.

Development of the Functional Flow Block Diagram for the J-2X Rocket Engine System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

White, Thomas; Stoller, Sandra L.; Greene, WIlliam D.; Christenson, Rick L.; Bowen, Barry C.

2007-01-01

The J-2X program calls for the upgrade of the Apollo-era Rocketdyne J-2 engine to higher power levels, using new materials and manufacturing techniques, and with more restrictive safety and reliability requirements than prior human-rated engines in NASA history. Such requirements demand a comprehensive systems engineering effort to ensure success. Pratt & Whitney Rocketdyne system engineers performed a functional analysis of the engine to establish the functional architecture. J-2X functions were captured in six major operational blocks. Each block was divided into sub-blocks or states. In each sub-block, functions necessary to perform each state were determined. A functional engine schematic consistent with the fidelity of the system model was defined for this analysis. The blocks, sub-blocks, and functions were sequentially numbered to differentiate the states in which the function were performed and to indicate the sequence of events. The Engine System was functionally partitioned, to provide separate and unique functional operators. Establishing unique functional operators as work output of the System Architecture process is novel in Liquid Propulsion Engine design. Each functional operator was described such that its unique functionality was identified. The decomposed functions were then allocated to the functional operators both of which were the inputs to the subsystem or component performance specifications. PWR also used a novel approach to identify and map the engine functional requirements to customer-specified functions. The final result was a comprehensive Functional Flow Block Diagram (FFBD) for the J-2X Engine System, decomposed to the component level and mapped to all functional requirements. This FFBD greatly facilitates component specification development, providing a well-defined trade space for functional trades at the subsystem and component level. It also provides a framework for function-based failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), and a rigorous baseline for the functional architecture.

Analysis and control of the METC fluid-bed gasifier. Quarterly report, October 1994--January 1995

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

Farell, A.E.; Reddy, S.

1995-03-01

This document summarizes work performed for the period 10/1/94 to 2/1/95. The initial phase of the work focuses on developing a simple transfer function model of the Fluidized Bed Gasifier (FBG). This transfer function model will be developed based purely on the gasifier responses to step changes in gasifier inputs (including reactor air, convey air, cone nitrogen, FBG pressure, and coal feedrate). This transfer function model will represent a linear, dynamic model that is valid near the operating point at which the data was taken. In addition, a similar transfer function model will be developed using MGAS in order tomore » assess MGAS for use as a model of the FBG for control systems analysis.« less

Variability in Dopamine Genes Dissociates Model-Based and Model-Free Reinforcement Learning

PubMed Central

Bath, Kevin G.; Daw, Nathaniel D.; Frank, Michael J.

2016-01-01

Considerable evidence suggests that multiple learning systems can drive behavior. Choice can proceed reflexively from previous actions and their associated outcomes, as captured by “model-free” learning algorithms, or flexibly from prospective consideration of outcomes that might occur, as captured by “model-based” learning algorithms. However, differential contributions of dopamine to these systems are poorly understood. Dopamine is widely thought to support model-free learning by modulating plasticity in striatum. Model-based learning may also be affected by these striatal effects, or by other dopaminergic effects elsewhere, notably on prefrontal working memory function. Indeed, prominent demonstrations linking striatal dopamine to putatively model-free learning did not rule out model-based effects, whereas other studies have reported dopaminergic modulation of verifiably model-based learning, but without distinguishing a prefrontal versus striatal locus. To clarify the relationships between dopamine, neural systems, and learning strategies, we combine a genetic association approach in humans with two well-studied reinforcement learning tasks: one isolating model-based from model-free behavior and the other sensitive to key aspects of striatal plasticity. Prefrontal function was indexed by a polymorphism in the COMT gene, differences of which reflect dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex. This polymorphism has been associated with differences in prefrontal activity and working memory. Striatal function was indexed by a gene coding for DARPP-32, which is densely expressed in the striatum where it is necessary for synaptic plasticity. We found evidence for our hypothesis that variations in prefrontal dopamine relate to model-based learning, whereas variations in striatal dopamine function relate to model-free learning. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT Decisions can stem reflexively from their previously associated outcomes or flexibly from deliberative consideration of potential choice outcomes. Research implicates a dopamine-dependent striatal learning mechanism in the former type of choice. Although recent work has indicated that dopamine is also involved in flexible, goal-directed decision-making, it remains unclear whether it also contributes via striatum or via the dopamine-dependent working memory function of prefrontal cortex. We examined genetic indices of dopamine function in these regions and their relation to the two choice strategies. We found that striatal dopamine function related most clearly to the reflexive strategy, as previously shown, and that prefrontal dopamine related most clearly to the flexible strategy. These findings suggest that dissociable brain regions support dissociable choice strategies. PMID:26818509

Bypassing the Kohn-Sham equations with machine learning.

PubMed

Brockherde, Felix; Vogt, Leslie; Li, Li; Tuckerman, Mark E; Burke, Kieron; Müller, Klaus-Robert

2017-10-11

Last year, at least 30,000 scientific papers used the Kohn-Sham scheme of density functional theory to solve electronic structure problems in a wide variety of scientific fields. Machine learning holds the promise of learning the energy functional via examples, bypassing the need to solve the Kohn-Sham equations. This should yield substantial savings in computer time, allowing larger systems and/or longer time-scales to be tackled, but attempts to machine-learn this functional have been limited by the need to find its derivative. The present work overcomes this difficulty by directly learning the density-potential and energy-density maps for test systems and various molecules. We perform the first molecular dynamics simulation with a machine-learned density functional on malonaldehyde and are able to capture the intramolecular proton transfer process. Learning density models now allows the construction of accurate density functionals for realistic molecular systems.Machine learning allows electronic structure calculations to access larger system sizes and, in dynamical simulations, longer time scales. Here, the authors perform such a simulation using a machine-learned density functional that avoids direct solution of the Kohn-Sham equations.

[Health education and people's participation in health in Nicaragua: research on the profile, role and function of the "brigadistas populares" in health].

PubMed

Leonardi, L; Mori, M

1989-01-01

The Nicaraguan democratic government has been building, since the defeat of somozism in 1979, a very extensive and uniform health system in the whole country, giving special attention to the problems of prevention and health education, promoting and utilizing a wide participation of the population. The most emblematic representative of the Nicaraguan model of participation is the Brigadista Popular en Salud, a voluntary figure in urban and rural areas, working along side the Sole National Health System. The work and role of the Brigadista is integrated in a health education action defined "Educaciòn Popular en Salud", intended as a dialogue through which the educator and educated, beginning with the specific political and economical social reality, accomplish work of observation, analysis and syntesis of the different phenomena that deal with health-sickness. The Brigadista is a member of the community that works voluntarily for the community to carry out health actions, in coordination with the "Puesto de Salud" of the community. The authors refer to a research study done in the field in 1987, geared to study the profile, role and activities of the Brigadista. The research was done in the "Las Segovias" Region, in the Northern part of the country, in two Health Areas, involving three urban centers and six rural communities: 73 Brigadistas were interviewed, of which 50 (predetermined) of urban centers and 23 (total population) in rural communities. The article represents in a comparative manner the operative Brigadista respectively, in urban areas on the one hand and in rural areas on the other. The article examines: sex; age; schooling; work activity; social-cultural background; collective systems background; participation in Literacy Campaigns; motivation; length and continuity of activities; relationship with the territory; activities done. The Brigadista that works in rural areas seems actually to be more attached, even to the formal image of his role, that the urban Brigadista. This is shown by the reduced turn-over, the wider span of functions, the closer relationship with collective systems that represent categories, a more intense relationship with colleagues of the health system as well as with other Brigadistas, the operative reference to specificity defined territories, more continuity in the functions of the Brigadista Popular en Salud.

Compilation of 1987 Annual Reports of the Navy ELF (Extremely Low Frequency) Communications System Ecological Monitoring Program. Volume 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-08-01

was used to: 1) develop functions using species importance values from pretreatment years (1985 and 1986) and 2) determine if discriminant functions...degrade lignocellulose . L -7- During 1988, this work element will focus on two objec- tives: 1) obtaining the first year’s data on streptomycete...cellulose, and lignin/ lignocellulose in both coniferous and deci- duous litter systems (Graustein gt &. 1977, Crawford 1978, Knut- son &I jL. 1980

Dopamine D2 receptor availability is linked to hippocampal–caudate functional connectivity and episodic memory

PubMed Central

Nyberg, Lars; Karalija, Nina; Salami, Alireza; Andersson, Micael; Wåhlin, Anders; Kaboovand, Neda; Köhncke, Ylva; Axelsson, Jan; Rieckmann, Anna; Papenberg, Goran; Garrett, Douglas D.; Riklund, Katrine; Lövdén, Martin; Bäckman, Lars

2016-01-01

D1 and D2 dopamine receptors (D1DRs and D2DRs) may contribute differently to various aspects of memory and cognition. The D1DR system has been linked to functions supported by the prefrontal cortex. By contrast, the role of the D2DR system is less clear, although it has been hypothesized that D2DRs make a specific contribution to hippocampus-based cognitive functions. Here we present results from 181 healthy adults between 64 and 68 y of age who underwent comprehensive assessment of episodic memory, working memory, and processing speed, along with MRI and D2DR assessment with [11C]raclopride and PET. Caudate D2DR availability was positively associated with episodic memory but not with working memory or speed. Whole-brain analyses further revealed a relation between hippocampal D2DR availability and episodic memory. Hippocampal and caudate D2DR availability were interrelated, and functional MRI-based resting-state functional connectivity between the ventral caudate and medial temporal cortex increased as a function of caudate D2DR availability. Collectively, these findings indicate that D2DRs make a specific contribution to hippocampus-based cognition by influencing striatal and hippocampal regions, and their interactions. PMID:27339132

Shift Work and Sleep: Medical Implications and Management

PubMed Central

Jehan, Shazia; Zizi, Ferdinand; Pandi-Perumal, Seithikurippu R; Myers, Alyson K; Auguste, Evan; Jean-Louis, Girardin; McFarlane, Samy I

2018-01-01

The primary occupation of a worker can play an important role in achieving good sleep, as well as good physical and mental health. Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD) is a condition that results from working atypical shifts (i.e. other than the typical 9 am to 5 pm schedule). Individuals who manifest SWSD usually complaint of trouble sleeping, excessive sleepiness and fatigue which interfere with overall functioning. Misalignment of circadian timing system results in undesirable health consequences. Among shift workers, good sleep is essential for efficient functioning. Disturbed sleep is associated with anxiety, depression, poor physical and mental health and eventually, leads to impaired quality of life. The economic burden of undiagnosed, under-and untreated shift work is high. The healthcare workers and policymakers can play a pivotal role in dealing with this issue by educating the public and providing them with adequate privileges to perform their work. PMID:29517053

The necessity of HVAC system for the registered architectural cultural heritage building

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Popovici, Cătălin George; Hudişteanu, Sebastian Valeriu; Cherecheş, Nelu-Cristian

2018-02-01

This study is intended to highlight the role of the ventilation and air conditioning system for a theatre. It was chosen as a case study the "Vasile Alecsandri" National Theatre of Jassy. The paper also sought to make a comparison in three distinct scenarios for HVAC Main Hall system - ventilation and air conditioning system of the Main Hall doesn't work; only the ventilation system of the Main Hall works and ventilation and air conditioning system of the Main Hall works. For analysing the comfort parameters, the ANSYS-Fluent software was used to build a 2D model of the building and simulation of HVAC system functionality during winter season, in all three scenarios. For the studied scenarios, the external conditions of Jassy and the indoor conditions of the theatre, when the entire spectacle hall is occupied were considered. The main aspects evaluated for each case were the air temperature, air velocity and relative humidity. The results are presented comparatively as plots and spectra of the interest parameters.

Calibration of a universal indicated turbulence system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chapin, W. G.

1977-01-01

Theoretical and experimental work on a Universal Indicated Turbulence Meter is described. A mathematical transfer function from turbulence input to output indication was developed. A random ergodic process and a Gaussian turbulence distribution were assumed. A calibration technique based on this transfer function was developed. The computer contains a variable gain amplifier to make the system output independent of average velocity. The range over which this independence holds was determined. An optimum dynamic response was obtained for the tubulation between the system pitot tube and pressure transducer by making dynamic response measurements for orifices of various lengths and diameters at the source end.

Thermoelectricity in fullerene-metal heterojunctions.

PubMed

Yee, Shannon K; Malen, Jonathan A; Majumdar, Arun; Segalman, Rachel A

2011-10-12

Thermoelectricty in heterojunctions, where a single-molecule is trapped between metal electrodes, has been used to understand transport properties at organic-inorganic interfaces. (1) The transport in these systems is highly dependent on the energy level alignment between the molecular orbitals and the Fermi level (or work function) of the metal contacts. To date, the majority of single-molecule measurements have focused on simple small molecules where transport is dominated through the highest occupied molecular orbital. (2, 3) In these systems, energy level alignment is limited by the absence of electrode materials with low Fermi levels (i.e., large work functions). Alternatively, more controllable alignment between molecular orbitals and the Fermi level can be achieved with molecules whose transport is dominated by the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) because of readily available metals with lower work functions. Herein, we report molecular junction thermoelectric measurements of fullerene molecules (i.e., C(60), PCBM, and C(70)) trapped between metallic electrodes (i.e., Pt, Au, Ag). Fullerene junctions demonstrate the first strongly n-type molecular thermopower corresponding to transport through the LUMO, and the highest measured magnitude of molecular thermopower to date. While the electronic conductance of fullerenes is highly variable, due to fullerene's variable bonding geometries with the electrodes, the thermopower shows predictable trends based on the alignment of the LUMO with the work function of the electrodes. Both the magnitude and trend of the thermopower suggest that heterostructuring organic and inorganic materials at the nanoscale can further enhance thermoelectric performance, therein providing a new pathway for designing thermoelectric materials.

Tick-borne encephalitis carries a high risk of incomplete recovery in children.

PubMed

Fowler, Åsa; Forsman, Lea; Eriksson, Margareta; Wickström, Ronny

2013-08-01

To examine long-term outcome after tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in children. In this population-based cohort, 55 children with TBE with central nervous system involvement infected during 2004-2008 were evaluated 2-7 years later using the Rivermead post-concussion symptoms questionnaire (n = 42) and the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning for parents and teachers (n = 32, n = 22, respectively). General cognitive ability was investigated in a subgroup (n = 20) using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th edition. At long-term follow-up, two-thirds of the children experienced residual problems, the main complaints being cognitive problems, headache, fatigue, and irritability. More than one-third of the children were reported by parents or teachers to have problems with executive functioning on the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning, mainly in areas involving initiating and organizing activities and working memory. Children who underwent Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th edition testing had a significantly lower working memory index compared with reference norms. A large proportion of children experience an incomplete recovery after TBE with central nervous system involvement. Cognitive problems in areas of executive function and working memory are the most prevalent. Even if mortality and severe sequelae are low in children after TBE, all children should be followed after TBE to detect cognitive deficits. Copyright © 2013 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Tracking & Data Relay Satellite System. The New Space Network.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Froehlich, Walter

This publication describes the giant-capacity space communications installation called the "Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System" (TDRSS). Chapters include: (1) "A New Communications Bridge to Orbit" (illustrating what it is and how it looks); (2) "TDRSS Goes to Work" (describing how it functions); (3) "The…

SUSTAINABLE WATER EXTRACTION AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM FOR AGRICULTURAL APPLICATIONS IN NAMAWANGA, KENYA

EPA Science Inventory

In order to ensure that the pumps are successful when installed for the community, working prototypes were tested, analyzed, and modified. The chief concerns of our functional analysis were the flow rate of the pump, the stability/durability of the system, total pumping head, ...

Collaborative Control of Media Playbacks in SCDNs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fortino, Giancarlo; Russo, Wilma; Palau, Carlos E.

2006-01-01

In this paper we present a CDN-based system, namely the COMODIN system, which is a media on-demand platform for synchronous cooperative work which supports an explicitly-formed cooperative group of distributed users with the following integrated functionalities: request of an archived multimedia session, sharing of its playback, and collaboration…

How Things Work. Teacher's Guide.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Brown, Mark; And Others

This unit examines the earth's processes and systems from an energy perspective. A technical language for discussion of energy systems is developed. Objectives include the ability of students to discuss earth's carbon/oxygen cycle, hydrological cycle, and heat patterns and the functioning of producers, consumers and decomposers in the environment.…

An immunologist's perspective on nutrition, immunity and infectious diseases: Introduction and overview

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

The immune system is a multifaceted arrangement of membranes (skin, epithelial, mucus), cells, and molecules whose function is to eradicate invading pathogens or cancer cells from a host. Working together, the various components of the immune system perform a balancing act of being lethal enough to...

Linguistic Perspectives on Literacy: A Systemic-Functional Approach.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Halliday, M. A. K.

Literacy is examined from the viewpoint of systemic linguistics. It is proposed that "literacy" means intervening in the social processes by working with written language, and this can not be accomplished by an individual alone. "Using written language" can not be isolated from "using language." While sociologically,…

Adaptivity in ProPer: An Adaptive SCORM Compliant LMS

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kazanidis, Ioannis; Satratzemi, Maya

2009-01-01

Adaptive Educational Hypermedia Systems provide personalized educational content to learners. However most of them do not support the functionality of Learning Management Systems (LMS) and the reusability of their courses is hard work. On the other hand some LMS support SCORM specifications but do not provide adaptive features. This article…

Unified formalism for the generalized kth-order Hamilton-Jacobi problem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Colombo, Leonardo; de Léon, Manuel; Prieto-Martínez, Pedro Daniel; Román-Roy, Narciso

2014-08-01

The geometric formulation of the Hamilton-Jacobi theory enables us to generalize it to systems of higher-order ordinary differential equations. In this work we introduce the unified Lagrangian-Hamiltonian formalism for the geometric Hamilton-Jacobi theory on higher-order autonomous dynamical systems described by regular Lagrangian functions.

Workshop on Instructional Features and Instructor/Operator Station Design for Training Systems.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ricard, G. L., Ed.; And Others

These 19 papers review current research and development work related to the operation of the instructor's station of training systems, with emphasis on developing functional station specifications applicable to a variety of simulation-based training situations. Topics include (1) instructional features; (2) instructor/operator station research and…

APPLYING OPERATIONAL ANALYSIS TO URBAN EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS, A WORKING PAPER.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

SISSON, ROGER L.

OPERATIONS RESEARCH CONCEPTS ARE POTENTIALLY USEFUL FOR STUDY OF SUCH LARGE URBAN SCHOOL DISTRICT PROBLEMS AS INFORMATION FLOW, PHYSICAL STRUCTURE OF THE DISTRICT, ADMINISTRATIVE DECISION MAKING BOARD POLICY FUNCTIONS, AND THE BUDGET STRUCTURE. OPERATIONAL ANALYSIS REQUIRES (1) IDENTIFICATION OF THE SYSTEM UNDER STUDY, (2) IDENTIFICATION OF…

Factors Affecting Selection of Learning Management Systems in Higher Education Institutions

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Spelke, Kenneth A.

2011-01-01

Learning Management Systems, or LMSs, are widely used throughout higher education to deliver a range of instructional services including content delivery, discussion boards and collaborative work space, testing tools, and gradebook functions. LMSs can be used asynchronously or synchronously in support of online learning, classroom-based learning,…

Semantic Networks. Final Report.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Collins, Allan M.; Warnock, Eleanor H.

Research and development work on the use of the SCHOLAR autotutorial, online system is described. Inference strategies used within the system are deductive, negative, and functional in character. A graphics package allows user to ask questions and give commands in English to control SCHOLAR's map display capability. The examples shown are for…

The Impact of Storage on Processing: How Is Information Maintained in Working Memory?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vergauwe, Evie; Camos, Valérie; Barrouillet, Pierre

2014-01-01

Working memory is typically defined as a system devoted to the simultaneous maintenance and processing of information. However, the interplay between these 2 functions is still a matter of debate in the literature, with views ranging from complete independence to complete dependence. The time-based resource-sharing model assumes that a central…

[Health-related assessment of the work training of 5-7th-form pupils].

PubMed

Sorokina, A A

1990-09-01

The present investigation is devoted to the study of the influence of labour on the functional state of the organism of medium school-aged pupils. It has been found out that engagement of schoolchildren in the workships and study rooms of service labour are not tiring, which creates reserves for the active development of the motor functions of schoolchildren. At the same time it has been found out that the types of labour which they encounter for the first time (joinery in the 5th form, electrotechnical work) lead to unfavourable changes in the functional state of schoolchildren organisms. The data obtained in the course of investigation on the organization of labour lesson (density of working and lessons structure) have been used in the development of 'Concept of labour preparation of the rising generation and studying young people in the system of continuous education'.

Pre-post evaluation of physicians' satisfaction with a redesigned electronic medical record system.

PubMed

Jaspers, Monique W M; Peute, Linda W P; Lauteslager, Arnaud; Bakker, Piet J M

2008-01-01

Physicians' acceptance of Electronic Medical Record Systems (EMRs) is closely related to their usability. Knowledge about end-users' opinions on usability of an EMR system may contribute to planning for the next phase of the usability cycle of the system. A demand for integration of new functionalities, such as computerized order entry and an electronic patient status led to redesign of our EMR system, which had been in use for over 8 years at the Academic Medical Center of Amsterdam. The aim of this study was to understand whether the redesigned EMR system was an improvement of the earlier EMR and which system aspects accounted for user satisfaction and which did not. We conducted a formative pre- and post usability evaluation of our former and redesigned EMR system. For the assessment of both system versions' usability, we distributed two standardized usability questionnaires among 150 clinicians who routinely had used the older EMR system and had been working with its newer version for 6 weeks. Though overall user satisfaction was relatively high for both EMR systems, screen layout and interaction structure proved less easy to work with in the newer EMR system. The new EMR system however was more appreciated because of its enhanced functionality, capabilities and likeable user-interface. The results point to a number of actions that might be useful in future usability improvement efforts of our EMR system and other EMRs.

A Study on the Secure User Profiling Structure and Procedure for Home Healthcare Systems.

PubMed

Ko, Hoon; Song, MoonBae

2016-01-01

Despite of various benefits such as a convenience and efficiency, home healthcare systems have some inherent security risks that may cause a serious leak on personal health information. This work presents a Secure User Profiling Structure which has the patient information including their health information. A patient and a hospital keep it at that same time, they share the updated data. While they share the data and communicate, the data can be leaked. To solve the security problems, a secure communication channel with a hash function and an One-Time Password between a client and a hospital should be established and to generate an input value to an OTP, it uses a dual hash-function. This work presents a dual hash function-based approach to generate the One-Time Password ensuring a secure communication channel with the secured key. In result, attackers are unable to decrypt the leaked information because of the secured key; in addition, the proposed method outperforms the existing methods in terms of computation cost.

Software Safety Risk in Legacy Safety-Critical Computer Systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hill, Janice L.; Baggs, Rhoda

2007-01-01

Safety Standards contain technical and process-oriented safety requirements. Technical requirements are those such as "must work" and "must not work" functions in the system. Process-Oriented requirements are software engineering and safety management process requirements. Address the system perspective and some cover just software in the system > NASA-STD-8719.13B Software Safety Standard is the current standard of interest. NASA programs/projects will have their own set of safety requirements derived from the standard. Safety Cases: a) Documented demonstration that a system complies with the specified safety requirements. b) Evidence is gathered on the integrity of the system and put forward as an argued case. [Gardener (ed.)] c) Problems occur when trying to meet safety standards, and thus make retrospective safety cases, in legacy safety-critical computer systems.

Managing data from multiple disciplines, scales, and sites to support synthesis and modeling

USGS Publications Warehouse

Olson, R. J.; Briggs, J. M.; Porter, J.H.; Mah, Grant R.; Stafford, S.G.

1999-01-01

The synthesis and modeling of ecological processes at multiple spatial and temporal scales involves bringing together and sharing data from numerous sources. This article describes a data and information system model that facilitates assembling, managing, and sharing diverse data from multiple disciplines, scales, and sites to support integrated ecological studies. Cross-site scientific-domain working groups coordinate the development of data associated with their particular scientific working group, including decisions about data requirements, data to be compiled, data formats, derived data products, and schedules across the sites. The Web-based data and information system consists of nodes for each working group plus a central node that provides data access, project information, data query, and other functionality. The approach incorporates scientists and computer experts in the working groups and provides incentives for individuals to submit documented data to the data and information system.

Participatory ergonomics simulation of hospital work systems: The influence of simulation media on simulation outcome.

PubMed

Andersen, Simone Nyholm; Broberg, Ole

2015-11-01

Current application of work system simulation in participatory ergonomics (PE) design includes a variety of different simulation media. However, the actual influence of the media attributes on the simulation outcome has received less attention. This study investigates two simulation media: full-scale mock-ups and table-top models. The aim is to compare, how the media attributes of fidelity and affordance influence the ergonomics identification and evaluation in PE design of hospital work systems. The results illustrate, how the full-scale mock-ups' high fidelity of room layout and affordance of tool operation support ergonomics identification and evaluation related to the work system entities space and technologies & tools. The table-top models' high fidelity of function relations and affordance of a helicopter view support ergonomics identification and evaluation related to the entity organization. Furthermore, the study addresses the form of the identified and evaluated conditions, being either identified challenges or tangible design criteria. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd and The Ergonomics Society. All rights reserved.

Materials learning from life: concepts for active, adaptive and autonomous molecular systems.

PubMed

Merindol, Rémi; Walther, Andreas

2017-09-18

Bioinspired out-of-equilibrium systems will set the scene for the next generation of molecular materials with active, adaptive, autonomous, emergent and intelligent behavior. Indeed life provides the best demonstrations of complex and functional out-of-equilibrium systems: cells keep track of time, communicate, move, adapt, evolve and replicate continuously. Stirred by the understanding of biological principles, artificial out-of-equilibrium systems are emerging in many fields of soft matter science. Here we put in perspective the molecular mechanisms driving biological functions with the ones driving synthetic molecular systems. Focusing on principles that enable new levels of functionalities (temporal control, autonomous structures, motion and work generation, information processing) rather than on specific material classes, we outline key cross-disciplinary concepts that emerge in this challenging field. Ultimately, the goal is to inspire and support new generations of autonomous and adaptive molecular devices fueled by self-regulating chemistry.

Graphical Environment Tools for Application to Gamma-Ray Energy Tracking Arrays

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

Todd, Richard A.; Radford, David C.

2013-12-30

Highly segmented, position-sensitive germanium detector systems are being developed for nuclear physics research where traditional electronic signal processing with mixed analog and digital function blocks would be enormously complex and costly. Future systems will be constructed using pipelined processing of high-speed digitized signals as is done in the telecommunications industry. Techniques which provide rapid algorithm and system development for future systems are desirable. This project has used digital signal processing concepts and existing graphical system design tools to develop a set of re-usable modular functions and libraries targeted for the nuclear physics community. Researchers working with complex nuclear detector arraysmore » such as the Gamma-Ray Energy Tracking Array (GRETA) have been able to construct advanced data processing algorithms for implementation in field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) through application of these library functions using intuitive graphical interfaces.« less

A systems relations model for Tier 2 early intervention child mental health services with schools: an exploratory study.

PubMed

van Roosmalen, Marc; Gardner-Elahi, Catherine; Day, Crispin

2013-01-01

Over the last 15 years, policy initiatives have aimed at the provision of more comprehensive Child and Adolescent Mental Health care. These presented a series of new challenges in organising and delivering Tier 2 child mental health services, particularly in schools. This exploratory study aimed to examine and clarify the service model underpinning a Tier 2 child mental health service offering school-based mental health work. Using semi-structured interviews, clinician descriptions of operational experiences were gathered. These were analysed using grounded theory methods. Analysis was validated by respondents at two stages. A pathway for casework emerged that included a systemic consultative function, as part of an overall three-function service model, which required: (1) activity as a member of the multi-agency system; (2) activity to improve the system working around a particular child; and (3) activity to universally develop a Tier 1 workforce confident in supporting children at risk of or experiencing mental health problems. The study challenged the perception of such a service serving solely a Tier 2 function, the requisite workforce to deliver the service model, and could give service providers a rationale for negotiating service models that include an explicit focus on improving the children's environments.

High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS): Pilot Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

2005-01-01

This report summarizes the initial work accomplished by the ACCESS 5 Human System Integration (HSI) team to identify Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Pilot Knowledge, Skill and Ability (KSA), Training and Medical requirements. To derive this information the following tasks were accomplished: a) Mission and Function analyses were performed; b) Applicable FARs and FAA Advisory Circulars (ACs) were reviewed; c) Meetings were conducted with NASA and FAA Human Factors personnel; d) Surveys were completed by ACCESS 5 HSI Working group UA Pilots; e) Coordination meetings were conducted with the ACCESS 5 Policy IPT. The results of these efforts were used to develop a summary of the current qualifications. for an individual to function as a Pilot In Command (PIC) for UAs currently flown by UNITE companies, to develop preliminary Pilot KSAs for each phase of flight, and to delineate preliminary Pilot Training and Medical requirements. These results are to be provided to the Policy IPT to support their development of recommendations for UA Pilot Rating Criteria, training and medical qualifications. It is expected that the initially an instrument rated pilot will be required to serve as the PIC. However, as operational experience is gained, and automation is applied to accomplish various system functions, it is expected that pilot rating criteria could be lessened.

Respiratory dysfunction in swine production facility workers: dose-response relationships of environmental exposures and pulmonary function.

PubMed

Donham, K J; Reynolds, S J; Whitten, P; Merchant, J A; Burmeister, L; Popendorf, W J

1995-03-01

Human respiratory health hazards for people working in livestock confinement buildings have been recognized since 1974. However, before comprehensive control programs can be implemented, more knowledge is needed of specific hazardous substances present in the air of these buildings, and at what concentrations they are harmful. Therefore, a medical epidemiological and exposure-response study was conducted on 207 swine producers using intensive housing systems (108 farms). Dose-response relationships between pulmonary function and exposures are reported here. Positive correlations were seen between change in pulmonary function over a work period and exposure to total dust, respirable dust, ammonia, respirable endotoxin, and the interactions of age-of-producer and dust exposure and years-of-working-in-the-facility and dust exposure. Relationships between baseline pulmonary function and exposures were not strong and therefore, not pursued in this study. The correlations between exposure and response were stronger after 6 years of exposure. Multiple regression models were used to identify total dust and ammonia as the two primary environmental predictors of pulmonary function decrements over a work period. The regression models were then used to determine exposure concentrations related to pulmonary function decrements suggestive of a health hazard. Total dust concentrations > or = 2.8 mg/m3 were predictive of a work period decrement of > or = 10% in FEV1. Ammonia concentrations of > or = 7.5 ppm were predictive of a > or = 3% work period decrement in FEV1. These predictive concentrations were similar to a previous dose-response study, which suggested 2.5 mg/m3 of total dust and 7 ppm of NH3 were associated with significant work period decrements. Therefore, dust > or = 2.8 mg/m3 and ammonia > or = 7.5 ppm should be considered reasonable evidence for guidelines regarding hazardous exposure concentrations in this work environment.

Functional Brain Network Modularity Captures Inter- and Intra-Individual Variation in Working Memory Capacity

PubMed Central

Stevens, Alexander A.; Tappon, Sarah C.; Garg, Arun; Fair, Damien A.

2012-01-01

Background Cognitive abilities, such as working memory, differ among people; however, individuals also vary in their own day-to-day cognitive performance. One potential source of cognitive variability may be fluctuations in the functional organization of neural systems. The degree to which the organization of these functional networks is optimized may relate to the effective cognitive functioning of the individual. Here we specifically examine how changes in the organization of large-scale networks measured via resting state functional connectivity MRI and graph theory track changes in working memory capacity. Methodology/Principal Findings Twenty-two participants performed a test of working memory capacity and then underwent resting-state fMRI. Seventeen subjects repeated the protocol three weeks later. We applied graph theoretic techniques to measure network organization on 34 brain regions of interest (ROI). Network modularity, which measures the level of integration and segregation across sub-networks, and small-worldness, which measures global network connection efficiency, both predicted individual differences in memory capacity; however, only modularity predicted intra-individual variation across the two sessions. Partial correlations controlling for the component of working memory that was stable across sessions revealed that modularity was almost entirely associated with the variability of working memory at each session. Analyses of specific sub-networks and individual circuits were unable to consistently account for working memory capacity variability. Conclusions/Significance The results suggest that the intrinsic functional organization of an a priori defined cognitive control network measured at rest provides substantial information about actual cognitive performance. The association of network modularity to the variability in an individual's working memory capacity suggests that the organization of this network into high connectivity within modules and sparse connections between modules may reflect effective signaling across brain regions, perhaps through the modulation of signal or the suppression of the propagation of noise. PMID:22276205

Significance of a Recurring Function in Energy Transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mishra, Subodha

2017-05-01

The appearance of a unique function in the energy transfer from one system to the other in different physical situations such as electrical, mechanical, optical, and quantum mechanical processes is established in this work. Though the laws governing the energy transformation and its transfer from system to system are well known, here we notice a unity in diversity; a unique function appears in various cases of energy transfer whether it is a classical or a quantum mechanical process. We consider four examples, well known in elementary physics, from the fields of electricity, mechanics, optics, and quantum mechanics. We find that this unique function is in fact the transfer function corresponding to all these physical situations, and the interesting and intriguing finding is that the inverse Laplace transform of this transfer function, which is the impulse-response function of the systems when multiplied by a factor of -½, is the solution of a linear differential equation for an "instantly forced critically damped harmonic oscillator." It is important to note that though the physical phenomena considered are quite distinct, the underlying process in the language of impulse-response of the system in the time domain is a unique one. To the best of our knowledge we have not seen anywhere the above analysis of determining the unique function or its description as a transfer function in literature.

The Ability of Conceptual Monitoring and the Quality of Working Memory at Children With Calculation Difficulties

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Arsic, Sladjana; Eminovic, Fadilj; Stankovic, Ivona

2011-01-01

Calculia is considered to be the ability of performing arithmetic operations, the preconditions for the development of mathematical skills in the complex functioning of psychological functions represented in neuro-anatomical systems, as well in the interaction with the environment. Problems in acquiring arithmetic skills can be described as…

The Computer and Its Functions; How to Communicate with the Computer.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ward, Peggy M.

A brief discussion of why it is important for students to be familiar with computers and their functions and a list of some practical applications introduce this two-part paper. Focusing on how the computer works, the first part explains the various components of the computer, different kinds of memory storage devices, disk operating systems, and…

Swords and Pens. What the Military Can Show Us about Teaching Basic Skills to Young Adults.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sticht, Thomas G.

2000-01-01

Describes how the military fights against illiteracy, suggesting military methods are useful in teaching young adult civilians. Highlights: the origins of functional context education in the military; work toward literacy in the Vietnam war era; applications to teaching civilians; and the K-12 education system. Functional context education can…

[Toward innovative hospital care].

PubMed

Loudcher, Rose-Marie; Tebib-Chibani, Yasmine

2017-10-01

For healthcare financing to remain profitable and to continue to function, the care system must be innovative in terms of patient care. Work organisation has changed with the pricing system for medical acts. The system of enhanced recovery after surgery helps to reduce hospitalisation times and to reflect on organisation. Nurses are on the front line. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Systems of Continuing Education: Priority to District Health Personnel. Report of a WHO Expert Committee. Technical Report Series 803.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

World Health Organization, Geneva (Switzerland).

Continuing education systems can improve the performance of health workers in countries around the world and support the functioning of district health systems. Continuing education guides health personnel toward the principles and methods of primary health care and improves their work with the community and family to attain an adequate level of…

Correctional Education/The Criminal Justice System. Teacher Training Module #1. Correctional/Special Education Training Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leone, Peter; And Others

This module, which is one in a series of training packages intended to train educators working with handicapped adolescents and young adults in correctional settings, deals with the U.S. criminal justice system. Addressed in the individual sections of the module are the following topics: the major functions of the criminal justice system,…

[Public relations in institutions and establishments of the health administration system].

PubMed

Martynenko, A V

2002-01-01

The article is dedicated to development of directions and specific functions of the health system bodies/institutions public relations (PR) activities. Priorities are set forth depending on the form of property thereof. A complex use of approaches toward carrying out of PR activities permits optimizing work both within the system itself and relations with the society as a whole.

Study to define an approach for developing a computer-based system capable of automatic, unattended assembly/disassembly of spacecraft, phase 1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Nevins, J. L.; Defazio, T. L.; Seltzer, D. S.; Whitney, D. E.

1981-01-01

The initial set of requirements for additional studies necessary to implement a space-borne, computer-based work system capable of achieving assembly, disassembly, repair, or maintenance in space were developed. The specific functions required of a work system to perform repair and maintenance were discussed. Tasks and relevant technologies were identified and delineated. The interaction of spacecraft design and technology options, including a consideration of the strategic issues of repair versus retrieval-replacement or destruction by removal were considered along with the design tradeoffs for accomplishing each of the options. A concept system design and its accompanying experiment or test plan were discussed.

Network Speech Systems Technology Program

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Weinstein, C. J.

1980-09-01

This report documents work performed during FY 1980 on the DCA-sponsored Network Speech Systems Technology Program. The areas of work reported are: (1) communication systems studies in Demand-Assignment Multiple Access (DAMA), voice/data integration, and adaptive routing, in support of the evolving Defense Communications System (DCS) and Defense Switched Network (DSN); (2) a satellite/terrestrial integration design study including the functional design of voice and data interfaces to interconnect terrestrial and satellite network subsystems; and (3) voice-conferencing efforts dealing with support of the Secure Voice and Graphics Conferencing (SVGC) Test and Evaluation Program. Progress in definition and planning of experiments for the Experimental Integrated Switched Network (EISN) is detailed separately in an FY 80 Experiment Plan Supplement.

The development of a specialized processor for a space-based multispectral earth imager

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khedr, Mostafa E.

2008-10-01

This work was done in the Department of Computer Engineering, Lvov Polytechnic National University, Lvov, Ukraine, as a thesis entitled "Space Imager Computer System for Raw Video Data Processing" [1]. This work describes the synthesis and practical implementation of a specialized computer system for raw data control and processing onboard a satellite MultiSpectral earth imager. This computer system is intended for satellites with resolution in the range of one meter with 12-bit precession. The design is based mostly on general off-the-shelf components such as (FPGAs) plus custom designed software for interfacing with PC and test equipment. The designed system was successfully manufactured and now fully functioning in orbit.

Regolith Advanced Surface Systems Operations Robot (RASSOR) Phase 2 and Smart Autonomous Sand-Swimming Excavator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sandy, Michael

2015-01-01

The Regolith Advanced Surface Systems Operations Robot (RASSOR) Phase 2 is an excavation robot for mining regolith on a planet like Mars. The robot is programmed using the Robotic Operating System (ROS) and it also uses a physical simulation program called Gazebo. This internship focused on various functions of the program in order to make it a more professional and efficient robot. During the internship another project called the Smart Autonomous Sand-Swimming Excavator was worked on. This is a robot that is designed to dig through sand and extract sample material. The intern worked on programming the Sand-Swimming robot, and designing the electrical system to power and control the robot.

[PSYCHO PHYSIOLOGICAL MARKERS OF ACCELERATED AGING AMONG THOSE WORKING WITH OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS].

PubMed

Bashkireva, A S; Kachan, Ye Yu; Kulapina, M E

2015-01-01

Using comparative analysis of two occupational groups we assessed the significance of psycho physiological markers of short-term memory accelerated aging in order to reveal how the age-related changes and working process affect mental work capacity. We revealed peculiarities of systemic structure of functions which determine mental work capacity depending on the age and length of service in lorry drivers. It was proved that age and long driving experience affect mnestic functions which show up quantitative and qualitative changes such as reduced volume of memorized information, longer time needed to memorize it, and tendency to diminished accuracy of memorization. We also proved that premature age-related changes of psycho physiological indices in drivers are the "risk indicators", while long driving experience is a real risk factor contributing to the acceleration of aging.

Evaluation of Supercapacitors Effects on Hybrid Energy Systems for Automotive

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lungoci, Carmen; Helerea, Elena

This work aims at evaluating the effects of the supercapacitors presence in hybrid energy systems used in automotive. The design and the electrical schema of a hybrid energy system that contains batteries and supercapacitors and propel a synchronous motor are purposed. The motor operating regime is described, detailing the drive evolution of the cycle speed imposed. In these conditions, to model the systems behavior, simulations developed in Matlab/Simulink environment are carried out. Two energies management strategies for the ensemble energy system-motor are implemented. Simulations are done and the energy management is discussed, making the comparative analyses. Applying a current control strategy on the supercapacitors, under two working conditions, functional diagrams are showed and compared. The results obtained highlight the advantages of the supercapacitors.

Modeling Tools for Propulsion Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics on the Internet

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Muss, J. A.; Johnson, C. W.; Gotchy, M. B.

2000-01-01

The existing RocketWeb(TradeMark) Internet Analysis System (httr)://www.iohnsonrockets.com/rocketweb) provides an integrated set of advanced analysis tools that can be securely accessed over the Internet. Since these tools consist of both batch and interactive analysis codes, the system includes convenient methods for creating input files and evaluating the resulting data. The RocketWeb(TradeMark) system also contains many features that permit data sharing which, when further developed, will facilitate real-time, geographically diverse, collaborative engineering within a designated work group. Adding work group management functionality while simultaneously extending and integrating the system's set of design and analysis tools will create a system providing rigorous, controlled design development, reducing design cycle time and cost.

China SLAT Plan Template

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

Dietrich, Richard E.

2016-07-01

This document serves as the System-Level Acceptance Test (SLAT) Plan for Site Name, City, Country. This test plan is to provide independent testing of the Radiation Detection System (RDS) installed at Site Name to verify that Customs has been delivered a fully-functioning system as required by all contractual commitments. The system includes all installed hardware and software components. The SLAT plan will verify that separate components are working individually and collectively from a system perspective.

The Functional Breakdown Structure (FBS) and Its Relationship to Life Cycle Cost

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

DeHoff, Bryan; Levack, Danie J. H.; Rhodes, Russell E.

2009-01-01

The Functional Breakdown Structure (FBS) is a structured, modular breakdown of every function that must be addressed to perform a generic mission. It is also usable for any subset of the mission. Unlike a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), the FBS is a function-oriented tree, not a product-oriented tree. The FBS details not products, but operations or activities that should be performed. The FBS is not tied to any particular architectural implementation because it is a listing of the needed functions, not the elements, of the architecture. The FBS for Space Transportation Systems provides a universal hierarchy of required functions, which include ground and space operations as well as infrastructure - it provides total visibility of the entire mission. By approaching the systems engineering problem from the functional view, instead of the element or hardware view, the SPST has created an exhaustive list of potential requirements which the architecture designers can use to evaluate the completeness of their designs. This is a new approach that will provide full accountability of all functions required to perform the planned mission. It serves as a giant check list to be sure that no functions are omitted, especially in the early architectural design phase. A significant characteristic of a FBS is that if architecture options are compared using this approach, then any missing or redundant elements of each option will be ' identified. Consequently, valid Life Cycle Costs (LCC) comparisons can be made. For example, one architecture option might not need a particular function while another option does. One option may have individual elements to perform each of three functions while another option needs only one element to perform the three functions. Once an architecture has been selected, the FBS will serve as a guide in development of the work breakdown structure, provide visibility of those technologies that need to be further developed to perform required functions, and help identify the personnel skills required to develop and operate the architecture. It also wifi allow the systems engineering activities to totally integrate each discipline to the maximum extent possible and optimize at the total system level, thus avoiding optimizing at the element level (stove-piping). In addition, it furnishes a framework that wifi help prevent over or under specifying requirements because all functions are identified and all elements are aligned to functions.

Suppression of work fluctuations by optimal control: An approach based on Jarzynski's equality

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, Gaoyang; Gong, Jiangbin

2014-11-01

Understanding and manipulating work fluctuations in microscale and nanoscale systems are of both fundamental and practical interest. For example, aspects of work fluctuations will be an important factor in designing nanoscale heat engines. In this work, an optimal control approach directly exploiting Jarzynski's equality is proposed to effectively suppress the fluctuations in the work statistics, for systems (initially at thermal equilibrium) subject to a work protocol but isolated from a bath during the protocol. The control strategy is to minimize the deviations of individual values of e-β W from their ensemble average given by e-β Δ F, where W is the work, β is the inverse temperature, and Δ F is the free energy difference between two equilibrium states. It is further shown that even when the system Hamiltonian is not fully known, it is still possible to suppress work fluctuations through a feedback loop, by refining the control target function on the fly through Jarzynski's equality itself. Numerical experiments are based on linear and nonlinear parametric oscillators. Optimal control results for linear parametric oscillators are also benchmarked with early results based on shortcuts to adiabaticity.

Aspartic acid

MedlinePlus

... we eat. Aspartic acid is also called asparaginic acid. Aspartic acid helps every cell in the body work. It ... release Normal nervous system function Plant sources of aspartic acid include: avocado, asparagus, and molasses. Animal sources of ...

Association between mental demands at work and cognitive functioning in the general population – results of the health study of the Leipzig research center for civilization diseases (LIFE)

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background The level of mental demands in the workplace is rising. The present study investigated whether and how mental demands at work are associated with cognitive functioning in the general population. Methods The analysis is based on data of the Health Study of the Leipzig Research Centre for Civilization Disease (LIFE). 2,725 participants aged 40–80 years underwent cognitive testing (Trail-Making Test, Verbal Fluency Test) and provided information on their occupational situation. Participants over the age of 65 years additionally completed the Mini-Mental State Examination. Mental demands at work were rated by a standardized classification system (O*NET). The association between mental demands and cognitive functioning was analyzed using Generalized Linear Modeling (GENLIN) adjusted for age, gender, self-regulation, working hour status, education, and health-related factors. Results Univariate as well as multivariate analyses demonstrated significant and highly consistent effects of higher mental demands on better performance in cognitive testing. The results also indicated that the effects are independent of education and intelligence. Moreover, analyses of retired individuals implied a significant association between high mental demands at work of the job they once held and a better cognitive functioning in old age. Conclusions In sum, our findings suggest a significant association between high mental demands at work and better cognitive functioning. In this sense, higher levels of mental demands – as brought about by technological changes in the working environment – may also have beneficial effects for the society as they could increase cognitive capacity levels and might even delay cognitive decline in old age. PMID:24914403

A psychotechnological review on eye-tracking systems: towards user experience.

PubMed

Mele, Maria Laura; Federici, Stefano

2012-07-01

The aim of the present work is to show a critical review of the international literature on eye-tracking technologies by focusing on those features that characterize them as 'psychotechnologies'. A critical literature review was conducted through the main psychology, engineering, and computer sciences databases by following specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. A total of 46 matches from 1998 to 2010 were selected for content analysis. Results have been divided into four broad thematic areas. We found that, although there is a growing attention to end-users, most of the studies reviewed in this work are far from being considered as adopting holistic human-computer interaction models that include both individual differences and needs of users. User is often considered only as a measurement object of the functioning of the technological system and not as a real alter-ego of the intrasystemic interaction. In order to fully benefit from the communicative functions of gaze, the research on eye-tracking must emphasize user experience. Eye-tracking systems would become an effective assistive technology for integration, adaptation and neutralization of the environmental barrier only when a holistic model can be applied for both design processes and assessment of the functional components of the interaction.

MicroRNAs (MiRs) Precisely Regulate Immune System Development and Function in Immunosenescence Process.

PubMed

Aalaei-Andabili, Seyed Hossein; Rezaei, Nima

2016-01-01

Human aging is a complex process with pivotal changes in gene expression of biological pathways. Immune system dysfunction has been recognized as one of the most important abnormalities induced by senescent names immunosenescence. Emerging evidences suggest miR role in immunosenescence. We aimed to systemically review all relevant reports to clearly state miR effects on immunosenescence process. Sensitive electronic searches carried out. Quality assessment has been performed. Since majority of the included studies were laboratory works, and therefore heterogen, we discussed miR effects on immunological aging process nonstatically. Forty-six articles were found in the initial search. After exclusion of 34 articles, 12 studies enrolled to the final stage. We found that miRs have crucial roles in exact function of immune system. MiRs are involved in the regulation of the aging process in the immune system components and target certain genes, promoting or inhibiting immune system reaction to invasion. Also, miRs control life span of the immune system members by regulation of the genes involved in the apoptosis. Interestingly, we found that immunosenescence is controllable by proper manipulation of the various miRs expression. DNA methylation and histone acetylation have been discovered as novel strategies, altering NF-κB binding ability to the miR promoter sites. Effect of miRs on impairment of immune system function due to the aging is emerging. Although it has been accepted that miRs have determinant roles in the regulation of the immunosenescence; however, most of the reports are concluded from animal/laboratory works, suggesting the necessity of more investigations in human.

Restoration of orbicularis oculi muscle function in rabbits with peripheral facial paralysis via an implantable artificial facial nerve system

PubMed Central

Sun, Yajing; Jin, Cheng; Li, Keyong; Zhang, Qunfeng; Geng, Liang; Liu, Xundao; Zhang, Yi

2017-01-01

The purpose of the present study was to restore orbicularis oculi muscle function using the implantable artificial facial nerve system (IAFNS). The in vivo part of the IAFNS was implanted into 12 rabbits that were facially paralyzed on the right side of the face to restore the function of the orbicularis oculi muscle, which was indicated by closure of the paralyzed eye when the contralateral side was closed. Wireless communication links were established between the in vivo part (the processing chip and microelectrode) and the external part (System Controller program) of the system, which were used to set the working parameters and indicate the working state of the processing chip and microelectrode implanted in the body. A disturbance field strength test of the IAFNS processing chip was performed in a magnetic field dark room to test its electromagnetic radiation safety. Test distances investigated were 0, 1, 3 and 10 m, and levels of radiation intensity were evaluated in the horizontal and vertical planes. Anti-interference experiments were performed to test the stability of the processing chip under the interference of electromagnetic radiation. The fully implanted IAFNS was run for 5 h per day for 30 consecutive days to evaluate the accuracy and precision as well as the long-term stability and effectiveness of wireless communication. The stimulus intensity (range, 0–8 mA) was set every 3 days to confirm the minimum stimulation intensity which could indicate the movement of the paralyzed side was set. Effective stimulation rate was also tested by comparing the number of eye-close movements on both sides. The results of the present study indicated that the IAFNS could rebuild the reflex arc, inducing the experimental rabbits to close the eye of the paralyzed side. The System Controller program was able to reflect the in vivo part of the artificial facial nerve system in real-time and adjust the working pattern, stimulation intensity and frequency, range of wave and stimulation time. No significant differences in the stimulus intensities were observed during 30 days. The artificial facial nerve system chip operation stable in the anti-interference test, and the radiation field strength of the system was in a safe range according to the national standard. The IAFNS functioned without any interference and was able to restore functionality to facially paralyzed rabbits over the course of 30 days. PMID:29285055

Expert Systems and Diagnostic Monitors in Psychiatry

PubMed Central

Gelernter, David; Gelernter, Joel

1984-01-01

We argue that existing expert systems for medical diagnosis have not satisfactorily addressed an important problem: how are such systems to be integrated into the clinical environment? This problem should be addressed before and not after a working system is developed, because its solution might well determine important aspects of the ultimate system structure. We propose as one solution the online diagnostic monitor, which is a diagnostic expert system designed for interactive use by a clinican during the course of a patient interview. The exchange between a diagnostic monitor and its clinican user is guided by the user, not the system, and the monitor functions as a passive advisor rather than an active decision-maker. We discuss why a system of this sort might be particularly well-suited to psychiatric diagnosis, and describe preliminary work on an experimental prototype.

Cholinergic blockade under working memory demands encountered by increased rehearsal strategies: evidence from fMRI in healthy subjects.

PubMed

Voss, Bianca; Thienel, Renate; Reske, Martina; Kellermann, Thilo; Sheldrick, Abigail J; Halfter, Sarah; Radenbach, Katrin; Shah, Nadim J; Habel, Ute; Kircher, Tilo T J

2012-06-01

The connection between cholinergic transmission and cognitive performance has been established in behavioural studies. The specific contribution of the muscarinic receptor system on cognitive performance and brain activation, however, has not been evaluated satisfyingly. To investigate the specific contribution of the muscarinic transmission on neural correlates of working memory, we examined the effects of scopolamine, an antagonist of the muscarinic receptors, using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). Fifteen healthy male, non-smoking subjects performed a fMRI scanning session following the application of scopolamine (0.4 mg, i.v.) or saline in a placebo-controlled, repeated measure, pseudo-randomized, single-blind design. Working memory was probed using an n-back task. Compared to placebo, challenging the cholinergic transmission with scopolamine resulted in hypoactivations in parietal, occipital and cerebellar areas and hyperactivations in frontal and prefrontal areas. These alterations are interpreted as compensatory strategies used to account for downregulation due to muscarinic acetylcholine blockade in parietal and cerebral storage systems by increased activation in frontal and prefrontal areas related to working memory rehearsal. Our results further underline the importance of cholinergic transmission to working memory performance and determine the specific contribution of muscarinic transmission on cerebral activation associated with executive functioning.

Conjugated ionomers for photovoltaic applications: electric field driven charge separation in organic photovoltaics. Final Technical report

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

Lonergan, Mark

Final technical report for Conjugated ionomers for photovoltaic applications, electric field driven charge separation in organic photovoltaics. The central goal of the work we completed was been to understand the photochemical and photovoltaic properties of ionically functionalized conjugated polymers (conjugated ionomers or polyelectrolytes) and energy conversion systems based on them. We primarily studied two classes of conjugated polymer interfaces that we developed based either upon undoped conjugated polymers with an asymmetry in ionic composition (the ionic junction) or doped conjugated polymers with an asymmetry in doping type (the p-n junction). The materials used for these studies have primarily been themore » polyacetylene ionomers. We completed a detailed study of p-n junctions with systematically varying dopant density, photochemical creation of doped junctions, and experimental and theoretical work on charge transport and injection in polyacetylene ionomers. We have also completed related work on the use of conjugated ionomers as interlayers that improve the efficiency or organic photovoltaic systems and studied several important aspects of the chemistry of ionically functionalized semiconductors, including mechanisms of so-called "anion-doping", the formation of charge transfer complexes with oxygen, and the synthesis of new polyfluorene polyelectrolytes. We also worked worked with the Haley group at the University of Oregon on new indenofluorene-based organic acceptors.« less

Two poplar-associated bacterial isolates induce additive favorable responses in a constructed plant-microbiome system

DOE PAGES

Jawdy, Sara S.; Gunter, Lee E.; Engle, Nancy L.; ...

2016-04-26

Here, the biological function of the plant-microbiome system is the result of contributions from the host plant and microbiome members. In this work we study the function of a simplified community consisting of Pseudomonas and Burkholderia bacterial strains isolated from Populus hosts and inoculated on axenic Populus cutting in controlled laboratory conditions. Inoculation individually with either bacterial isolate increased root growth relative to uninoculated controls. Root area, photosynthetic efficiency, gene expression and metabolite expression data in individual and dual inoculated treatments indicate that the effects of these bacteria are unique and additive, suggesting that the function of a microbiome communitymore » may be predicted from the additive functions of the individual members.« less

Computational complexity of Boolean functions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Korshunov, Aleksei D.

2012-02-01

Boolean functions are among the fundamental objects of discrete mathematics, especially in those of its subdisciplines which fall under mathematical logic and mathematical cybernetics. The language of Boolean functions is convenient for describing the operation of many discrete systems such as contact networks, Boolean circuits, branching programs, and some others. An important parameter of discrete systems of this kind is their complexity. This characteristic has been actively investigated starting from Shannon's works. There is a large body of scientific literature presenting many fundamental results. The purpose of this survey is to give an account of the main results over the last sixty years related to the complexity of computation (realization) of Boolean functions by contact networks, Boolean circuits, and Boolean circuits without branching. Bibliography: 165 titles.

Pursuing the flow of information: connectivity between bilateral premotor cortices predicts better accuracy in the phonological working memory task.

PubMed

Ono, Yumie; Nanjo, Tatsuya; Ishiyama, Atsushi

2013-01-01

Using Magnetoencephalography (MEG) we studied functional connectivity of cortical areas during phonological working memory task. Six subjects participated in the experiment and their neuronal activity was measured by a 306-channel MEG system. We used a modified version of the visual Sternberg paradigm, which required subjects to memorize 8 alphabet letters in 2s for a late recall period. We estimated functional connectivity of oscillatory regional brain activities during the encoding session for each trial of each subject using beamformer source reconstruction and Granger causality analysis. Regional brain activities were mostly found in the bilateral premotor cortex (Brodmann area (BA) 6: PMC), the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (BA 9: DLPFC), and the right frontal eye field (BA 8). Considering that the left and right PMCs participate in the functions of phonological loop (PL) and the visuospatial sketchpad (VS) in the Baddeley's model of working memory, respectively, our result suggests that subjects utilized either single function or both functions of working memory circuitry to execute the task. Interestingly, the accuracy of the task was significantly higher in the trials where the alpha band oscillatory activities in the bilateral PMCs established functional connectivity compared to those where the PMC was not working in conjunction with its counterpart. Similar relationship was found in the theta band oscillatory activities between the right PMC and the right DLPFC, however in this case the establishment of functional connectivity significantly decreased the accuracy of the task. These results suggest that sharing the memory load with both PL- and VS- type memory storage circuitries contributed to better performance in the highly-demanding cognitive task.

Exploring the potential of open big data from ticketing websites to characterize travel patterns within the Chinese high-speed rail system

PubMed Central

Luan, Xiali; Han, Shanrui; Zhou, Wen

2017-01-01

Big data have contributed to deepen our understanding in regards to many human systems, particularly human mobility patterns and the structure and functioning of transportation systems. Resonating the recent call for ‘open big data,’ big data from various sources on a range of scales have become increasingly accessible to the public. However, open big data relevant to travelers within public transit tools remain scarce, hindering any further in-depth study on human mobility patterns. Here, we explore ticketing-website derived data that are publically available but have been largely neglected. We demonstrate the power, potential and limitations of this open big data, using the Chinese high-speed rail (HSR) system as an example. Using an application programming interface, we automatically collected the data on the remaining tickets (RTD) for scheduled trains at the last second before departure in order to retrieve information on unused transit capacity, occupancy rate of trains, and passenger flux at stations. We show that this information is highly useful in characterizing the spatiotemporal patterns of traveling behaviors on the Chinese HSR, such as weekend traveling behavior, imbalanced commuting behavior, and station functionality. Our work facilitates the understanding of human traveling patterns along the Chinese HSR, and the functionality of the largest HSR system in the world. We expect our work to attract attention regarding this unique open big data source for the study of analogous transportation systems. PMID:28574991

Exploring the potential of open big data from ticketing websites to characterize travel patterns within the Chinese high-speed rail system.

PubMed

Wei, Sheng; Yuan, Jinfu; Qiu, Yanning; Luan, Xiali; Han, Shanrui; Zhou, Wen; Xu, Chi

2017-01-01

Big data have contributed to deepen our understanding in regards to many human systems, particularly human mobility patterns and the structure and functioning of transportation systems. Resonating the recent call for 'open big data,' big data from various sources on a range of scales have become increasingly accessible to the public. However, open big data relevant to travelers within public transit tools remain scarce, hindering any further in-depth study on human mobility patterns. Here, we explore ticketing-website derived data that are publically available but have been largely neglected. We demonstrate the power, potential and limitations of this open big data, using the Chinese high-speed rail (HSR) system as an example. Using an application programming interface, we automatically collected the data on the remaining tickets (RTD) for scheduled trains at the last second before departure in order to retrieve information on unused transit capacity, occupancy rate of trains, and passenger flux at stations. We show that this information is highly useful in characterizing the spatiotemporal patterns of traveling behaviors on the Chinese HSR, such as weekend traveling behavior, imbalanced commuting behavior, and station functionality. Our work facilitates the understanding of human traveling patterns along the Chinese HSR, and the functionality of the largest HSR system in the world. We expect our work to attract attention regarding this unique open big data source for the study of analogous transportation systems.

Similar prefrontal cortical activities between general fluid intelligence and visuospatial working memory tasks in preschool children as revealed by optical topography.

PubMed

Kuwajima, Mariko; Sawaguchi, Toshiyuki

2010-10-01

General fluid intelligence (gF) is a major component of intellect in both adults and children. Whereas its neural substrates have been studied relatively thoroughly in adults, those are poorly understood in children, particularly preschoolers. Here, we hypothesized that gF and visuospatial working memory share a common neural system within the lateral prefrontal cortex (LPFC) during the preschool years (4-6 years). At the behavioral level, we found that gF positively and significantly correlated with abilities (especially accuracy) in visuospatial working memory. Optical topography revealed that the LPFC of preschoolers was activated and deactivated during the visuospatial working memory task and the gF task. We found that the spatio-temporal features of neural activity in the LPFC were similar for both the visuospatial working memory task and the gF task. Further, 2 months of training for the visuospatial working memory task significantly increased gF in the preschoolers. These findings suggest that a common neural system in the LPFC is recruited to improve the visuospatial working memory and gF in preschoolers. Efficient recruitment of this neural system may be important for good performance in these functions in preschoolers, and behavioral training using this system would help to increase gF at these ages.

Data equivalency of an interactive voice response system for home assessment of back pain and function.

PubMed

Shaw, William S; Verma, Santosh K

2007-01-01

Interactive voice response (IVR) systems that collect survey data using automated, push-button telephone responses may be useful to monitor patients' pain and function at home; however, its equivalency to other data collection methods has not been studied. To study the data equivalency of IVR measurement of pain and function to live telephone interviewing. In a prospective cohort study, 547 working adults (66% male) with acute back pain were recruited at an initial outpatient visit and completed telephone assessments one month later to track outcomes of pain, function, treatment helpfulness and return to work. An IVR system was introduced partway through the study (after the first 227 participants) to reduce the staff time necessary to contact participants by telephone during nonworking hours. Of 368 participants who were subsequently recruited and offered the IVR option, 131 (36%) used IVR, 189 (51%) were contacted by a telephone interviewer after no IVR attempt was made within five days, and 48 (13%) were lost to follow-up. Those with lower income were more likely to use IVR. Analysis of outcome measures showed that IVR respondents reported comparatively lower levels of function and less effective treatment, but not after controlling for differences due to the delay in reaching non-IVR users by telephone (mean: 35.4 versus 29.2 days). The results provided no evidence of information or selection bias associated with IVR use; however, IVR must be supplemented with other data collection options to maintain high response rates.

Space station Simulation Computer System (SCS) study for NASA/MSFC. Volume 6: Study issues report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1989-01-01

The Simulation Computer System (SCS) is the computer hardware, software, and workstations that will support the Payload Training Complex (PTC) at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC). The PTC will train the space station payload specialists and mission specialists to operate the wide variety of experiments that will be on-board the Freedom Space Station. This simulation Computer System (SCS) study issues report summarizes the analysis and study done as task 1-identify and analyze the CSC study issues- of the SCS study contract.This work was performed over the first three months of the SCS study which began in August of 1988. First issues were identified from all sources. These included the NASA SOW, the TRW proposal, and working groups which focused the experience of NASA and the contractor team performing the study-TRW, Essex, and Grumman. The final list is organized into training related issues, and SCS associated development issues. To begin the analysis of the issues, a list of all the functions for which the SCS could be used was created, i.e., when the computer is turned on, what will it be doing. Analysis was continued by creating an operational functions matrix of SCS users vs. SCS functions to insure all the functions considered were valid, and to aid in identification of users as the analysis progressed. The functions will form the basis for the requirements, which are currently being developed under task 3 of the SCS study.

Engineering intracellular active transport systems as in vivo biomolecular tools.

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

Bachand, George David; Carroll-Portillo, Amanda

2006-11-01

Active transport systems provide essential functions in terms of cell physiology and metastasis. These systems, however, are also co-opted by invading viruses, enabling directed transport of the virus to and from the cell's nucleus (i.e., the site of virus replication). Based on this concept, fundamentally new approaches for interrogating and manipulating the inner workings of living cells may be achievable by co-opting Nature's active transport systems as an in vivo biomolecular tool. The overall goal of this project was to investigate the ability to engineer kinesin-based transport systems for in vivo applications, specifically the collection of effector proteins (e.g., transcriptionalmore » regulators) within single cells. In the first part of this project, a chimeric fusion protein consisting of kinesin and a single chain variable fragment (scFv) of an antibody was successfully produced through a recombinant expression system. The kinesin-scFv retained both catalytic and antigenic functionality, enabling selective capture and transport of target antigens. The incorporation of a rabbit IgG-specific scFv into the kinesin established a generalized system for functionalizing kinesin with a wide range of target-selective antibodies raised in rabbits. The second objective was to develop methods of isolating the intact microtubule network from live cells as a platform for evaluating kinesin-based transport within the cytoskeletal architecture of a cell. Successful isolation of intact microtubule networks from two distinct cell types was demonstrated using glutaraldehyde and methanol fixation methods. This work provides a platform for inferring the ability of kinesin-scFv to function in vivo, and may also serve as a three-dimensional scaffold for evaluating and exploiting kinesin-based transport for nanotechnological applications. Overall, the technology developed in this project represents a first-step in engineering active transport system for in vivo applications. Further development could potentially enable selective capture of intracellular antigens, targeted delivery of therapeutic agents, or disruption of the transport systems and consequently the infection and pathogenesis cycle of biothreat agents.« less

Combined functional electrical stimulation (FES) and robotic system for wrist rehabiliation after stroke.

PubMed

Hu, Xiaoling; Tong, K Y; Li, R; Chen, M; Xue, J J; Ho, S K; Chen, P N

2010-01-01

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) and rehabilitation robots are techniques used to assist in post-stroke rehabilitation. However, FES and rehabilitation robots are still separate systems currently; and their combined training effects on persons after experiencing a stroke have not been well studied yet. In this work, a new combined FES-robot system driven by user's voluntary intention was developed for wrist joint training after stroke. The performance of the FES-robot assisted wrist tracking was evaluated on five subjects with chronic stroke. With simultaneous assistance from both the FES and robot parts of the system, the motion accuracy was improved and excessive activation in elbow flexor was reduced during wrist tracking.

Lyapunov dimension formula for the global attractor of the Lorenz system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leonov, G. A.; Kuznetsov, N. V.; Korzhemanova, N. A.; Kusakin, D. V.

2016-12-01

The exact Lyapunov dimension formula for the Lorenz system for a positive measure set of parameters, including classical values, was analytically obtained first by G.A. Leonov in 2002. Leonov used the construction technique of special Lyapunov-type functions, which was developed by him in 1991 year. Later it was shown that the consideration of larger class of Lyapunov-type functions permits proving the validity of this formula for all parameters, of the system, such that all the equilibria of the system are hyperbolically unstable. In the present work it is proved the validity of the formula for Lyapunov dimension for a wider variety of parameters values including all parameters, which satisfy the classical physical limitations.

Computer program for single input-output, single-loop feedback systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1976-01-01

Additional work is reported on a completely automatic computer program for the design of single input/output, single loop feedback systems with parameter uncertainly, to satisfy time domain bounds on the system response to step commands and disturbances. The inputs to the program are basically the specified time-domain response bounds, the form of the constrained plant transfer function and the ranges of the uncertain parameters of the plant. The program output consists of the transfer functions of the two free compensation networks, in the form of the coefficients of the numerator and denominator polynomials, and the data on the prescribed bounds and the extremes actually obtained for the system response to commands and disturbances.

Neural systems and time course of proactive interference in working memory.

PubMed

Du, Yingchun; Zhang, John X; Xiao, Zhuangwei; Wu, Renhua

2007-01-01

The storage of information in working memory suffers as a function of proactive interference. Many works using neuroimaging technique have been done to reveal the brain mechanism of interference resolution. However, less is yet known about the time course of this process. Event-related potential method(ERP) and standardized Low Resolution Brain Electromagnetic Tomography method (sLORETA) were used in this study to discover the time course of interference resolution in working memory. The anterior P2 was thought to reflect interference resolution and if so, this process occurred earlier in working memory than in long-term memory.

International Space Station Environmental Control and Life Support System Status: 2014-2015

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Williams, David E.; Gentry, Gregory J.

2015-01-01

The International Space Station (ISS) Environmental Control and Life Support (ECLS) system includes regenerative and non-regenerative technologies that provide the basic life support functions to support the crew, while maintaining a safe and habitable shirtsleeve environment. This paper provides a summary of the U.S. ECLS system activities over the past year and the impacts of the international partners' activities on them, covering the period of time between March 2014 and February 2015. The ISS continued permanent crew operations including the continuation of six crew members being on ISS. Work continues on the commercial crew vehicles, and work to try and extend ISS service life.

Intelligent data reduction for autonomous power systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Floyd, Stephen A.

1988-01-01

Since 1984 Marshall Space Flight Center was actively engaged in research and development concerning autonomous power systems. Much of the work in this domain has dealt with the development and application of knowledge-based or expert systems to perform tasks previously accomplished only through intensive human involvement. One such task is the health status monitoring of electrical power systems. Such monitoring is a manpower intensive task which is vital to mission success. The Hubble Space Telescope testbed and its associated Nickel Cadmium Battery Expert System (NICBES) were designated as the system on which the initial proof of concept for intelligent power system monitoing will be established. The key function performed by an engineer engaged in system monitoring is to analyze the raw telemetry data and identify from the whole only those elements which can be considered significant. This function requires engineering expertise on the functionality of the system, the mode of operation and the efficient and effective reading of the telemetry data. Application of this expertise to extract the significant components of the data is referred to as data reduction. Such a function possesses characteristics which make it a prime candidate for the application of knowledge-based systems' technologies. Such applications are investigated and recommendations are offered for the development of intelligent data reduction systems.

DMS Advanced Applications for Accommodating High Penetrations of DERs and Microgrids: Preprint

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

Pratt, Annabelle; Veda, Santosh; Maitra, Arindam

Efficient and effective management of the electrical distribution system requires an integrated system approach for Distribution Management Systems (DMS), Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), Distributed Energy Resources Management System (DERMS), and microgrids to work in harmony. This paper highlights some of the outcomes from a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Office of Electricity (OE) project, including 1) Architecture of these integrated systems, and 2) Expanded functions of two example DMS applications, Volt-VAR optimization (VVO) and Fault Location, Isolation and Service Restoration (FLISR), to accommodate DER. For these two example applications, the relevant DER Group Functions necessary to support communication between DMSmore » and Microgrid Controller (MC) in grid-tied mode are identified.« less

DMS Advanced Applications for Accommodating High Penetrations of DERs and Microgrids

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

Pratt, Annabelle; Veda, Santosh; Maitra, Arindam

Efficient and effective management of the electric distribution system requires an integrated approach to allow various systems to work in harmony, including distribution management systems (DMS), distributed energy resources (DERs), distributed energy resources management systems, and microgrids. This study highlights some outcomes from a recent project sponsored by the US Department of Energy, Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability, including information about (i) the architecture of these integrated systems and (ii) expanded functions of two example DMS applications to accommodate DERs: volt-var optimisation and fault location, isolation, and service restoration. In addition, the relevant DER group functions necessary tomore » support communications between the DMS and a microgrid controller in grid-tied mode are identified.« less

75 FR 41539 - Privacy Act Systems of Records Notice

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-16

... statistics and analytical studies in support of the function for which the records are collected and maintained, or for related work force studies. While published statistics and studies do not contain...

Promoting consistent use of the communication function classification system (CFCS).

PubMed

Cunningham, Barbara Jane; Rosenbaum, Peter; Hidecker, Mary Jo Cooley

2016-01-01

We developed a Knowledge Translation (KT) intervention to standardize the way speech-language pathologists working in Ontario Canada's Preschool Speech and Language Program (PSLP) used the Communication Function Classification System (CFCS). This tool was being used as part of a provincial program evaluation and standardizing its use was critical for establishing reliability and validity within the provincial dataset. Two theoretical foundations - Diffusion of Innovations and the Communication Persuasion Matrix - were used to develop and disseminate the intervention to standardize use of the CFCS among a cohort speech-language pathologists. A descriptive pre-test/post-test study was used to evaluate the intervention. Fifty-two participants completed an electronic pre-test survey, reviewed intervention materials online, and then immediately completed an electronic post-test survey. The intervention improved clinicians' understanding of how the CFCS should be used, their intentions to use the tool in the standardized way, and their abilities to make correct classifications using the tool. Findings from this work will be shared with representatives of the Ontario PSLP. The intervention may be disseminated to all speech-language pathologists working in the program. This study can be used as a model for developing and disseminating KT interventions for clinicians in paediatric rehabilitation. The Communication Function Classification System (CFCS) is a new tool that allows speech-language pathologists to classify children's skills into five meaningful levels of function. There is uncertainty and inconsistent practice in the field about the methods for using this tool. This study used combined two theoretical frameworks to develop an intervention to standardize use of the CFCS among a cohort of speech-language pathologists. The intervention effectively increased clinicians' understanding of the methods for using the CFCS, ability to make correct classifications, and intention to use the tool in the standardized way in the future.

MEMS scanning micromirror for optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Strathman, Matthew; Liu, Yunbo; Keeler, Ethan G; Song, Mingli; Baran, Utku; Xi, Jiefeng; Sun, Ming-Ting; Wang, Ruikang; Li, Xingde; Lin, Lih Y

2015-01-01

This paper describes an endoscopic-inspired imaging system employing a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) micromirror scanner to achieve beam scanning for optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging. Miniaturization of a scanning mirror using MEMS technology can allow a fully functional imaging probe to be contained in a package sufficiently small for utilization in a working channel of a standard gastroesophageal endoscope. This work employs advanced image processing techniques to enhance the images acquired using the MEMS scanner to correct non-idealities in mirror performance. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed technique.

MEMS scanning micromirror for optical coherence tomography

PubMed Central

Strathman, Matthew; Liu, Yunbo; Keeler, Ethan G.; Song, Mingli; Baran, Utku; Xi, Jiefeng; Sun, Ming-Ting; Wang, Ruikang; Li, Xingde; Lin, Lih Y.

2014-01-01

This paper describes an endoscopic-inspired imaging system employing a micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) micromirror scanner to achieve beam scanning for optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging. Miniaturization of a scanning mirror using MEMS technology can allow a fully functional imaging probe to be contained in a package sufficiently small for utilization in a working channel of a standard gastroesophageal endoscope. This work employs advanced image processing techniques to enhance the images acquired using the MEMS scanner to correct non-idealities in mirror performance. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed technique. PMID:25657887

Parallel File System I/O Performance Testing On LANL Clusters

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

Wiens, Isaac Christian; Green, Jennifer Kathleen

2016-08-18

These are slides from a presentation on parallel file system I/O performance testing on LANL clusters. I/O is a known bottleneck for HPC applications. Performance optimization of I/O is often required. This summer project entailed integrating IOR under Pavilion and automating the results analysis. The slides cover the following topics: scope of the work, tools utilized, IOR-Pavilion test workflow, build script, IOR parameters, how parameters are passed to IOR, *run_ior: functionality, Python IOR-Output Parser, Splunk data format, Splunk dashboard and features, and future work.

Influencia de diferentes ecuaciones de transformacion del sistema UBVal RGU en el estudio fotometrico de cumulos galacticos.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huestamendia Aparicio, G.

Three-colour photometry of ten open clusters in the RGU system has been carried out. The calibration sequence has been defined using the Buser's transformation equations between the UBV and RGU systems, while in earlier works the Steinlin's formulae have been used. The results have been compared with those given in these works. Some differences have been found in G, G-R and U-G as a function of the spectral type and the interstellar absorption. They have a systematic character.

Structural properties of lead-lithium alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khambholja, S. G.; Satikunvar, D. D.; Abhishek, Agraj; Thakore, B. Y.

2018-05-01

Lead-Lihtium alloys have found large number of applications as liquid metal coolants in nuclear reactors. Large number of experimental work is reported for this system. However, complete theoretical description is still rare. In this scenario, we in the present work report the study of ground state properties of Lead-Lithium system. The present study is performed using plane wave pseudopotential density functional theory as implemented in Quantum ESPRESSO package. The theoretical findings are in agreement with previously reported experimental data. Some conclusions are drawn based on present study, which will be helpful for a comprehensive study.

An information theory model for dissipation in open quantum systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogers, David M.

2017-08-01

This work presents a general model for open quantum systems using an information game along the lines of Jaynes’ original work. It is shown how an energy based reweighting of propagators provides a novel moment generating function at each time point in the process. Derivatives of the generating function give moments of the time derivatives of observables. Aside from the mathematically helpful properties, the ansatz reproduces key physics of stochastic quantum processes. At high temperature, the average density matrix follows the Caldeira-Leggett equation. Its associated Langevin equation clearly demonstrates the emergence of dissipation and decoherence time scales, as well as an additional diffusion due to quantum confinement. A consistent interpretation of these results is that decoherence and wavefunction collapse during measurement are directly related to the degree of environmental noise, and thus occur because of subjective uncertainty of an observer.

Somato stimulation and acupuncture therapy.

PubMed

Zhao, Jing-Jun; Rong, Pei-Jing; Shi, Li; Ben, Hui; Zhu, Bing

2016-05-01

Acupuncture is an oldest somato stimulus medical technique. As the most representative peripheral nerve stimulation therapy, it has a complete system of theory and application and is applicable to a large population. This paper expounds the bionic origins of acupuncture and analyzes the physiological mechanism by which acupuncture works. For living creatures, functionally sound viscera and effective endurance of pain are essential for survival. This paper discusses the way in which acupuncture increases the pain threshold of living creatures and the underlying mechanism from the perspective of bionics. Acupuncture can also help to adjust visceral functions and works most effectively in facilitating the process of digestion and restraining visceral pain. This paper makes an in-depth overview of peripheral nerve stimulation therapy represented by acupuncture. We look forward to the revival of acupuncture, a long-standing somato stimulus medicine, in the modern medical systems.

WebBio, a web-based management and analysis system for patient data of biological products in hospital.

PubMed

Lu, Ying-Hao; Kuo, Chen-Chun; Huang, Yaw-Bin

2011-08-01

We selected HTML, PHP and JavaScript as the programming languages to build "WebBio", a web-based system for patient data of biological products and used MySQL as database. WebBio is based on the PHP-MySQL suite and is run by Apache server on Linux machine. WebBio provides the functions of data management, searching function and data analysis for 20 kinds of biological products (plasma expanders, human immunoglobulin and hematological products). There are two particular features in WebBio: (1) pharmacists can rapidly find out whose patients used contaminated products for medication safety, and (2) the statistics charts for a specific product can be automatically generated to reduce pharmacist's work loading. WebBio has successfully turned traditional paper work into web-based data management.

Extracellular matrix and its receptors in Drosophila neural development

PubMed Central

Broadie, Kendal; Baumgartner, Stefan; Prokop, Andreas

2011-01-01

Extracellular matrix (ECM) and matrix receptors are intimately involved in most biological processes. The ECM plays fundamental developmental and physiological roles in health and disease, including processes underlying the development, maintenance and regeneration of the nervous system. To understand the principles of ECM-mediated functions in the nervous system, genetic model organisms like Drosophila provide simple, malleable and powerful experimental platforms. This article provides an overview of ECM proteins and receptors in Drosophila. It then focuses on their roles during three progressive phases of neural development: 1) neural progenitor proliferation, 2) axonal growth and pathfinding and 3) synapse formation and function. Each section highlights known ECM and ECM-receptor components and recent studies done in mutant conditions to reveal their in vivo functions, all illustrating the enormous opportunities provided when merging work on the nervous system with systematic research into ECM-related gene functions. PMID:21688401

Function representation with circle inversion map systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boreland, Bryson; Kunze, Herb

2017-01-01

The fractals literature develops the now well-known concept of local iterated function systems (using affine maps) with grey-level maps (LIFSM) as an approach to function representation in terms of the associated fixed point of the so-called fractal transform. While originally explored as a method to achieve signal (and 2-D image) compression, more recent work has explored various aspects of signal and image processing using this machinery. In this paper, we develop a similar framework for function representation using circle inversion map systems. Given a circle C with centre õ and radius r, inversion with respect to C transforms the point p˜ to the point p˜', such that p˜ and p˜' lie on the same radial half-line from õ and d(õ, p˜)d(õ, p˜') = r2, where d is Euclidean distance. We demonstrate the results with an example.

[Definition and specification requirements for PAC-systems (picture archiving and communication system). A performance index with reference to the standard "IEEE Recommended Practice for Software Requirement Specifications"].

PubMed

König, H; Klose, K J

1999-04-01

The formulation of requirements is necessary to control the goals of a PACS project. Furthermore, in this way, the scope of functionality necessary to support radiological working processes becomes clear. Definitions of requirements and specification are formulated independently of systems according to the IEEE standard "Recommended Practice for Software Requirements Specifications". Definitions are given in the Request for Information, specifications in the Request for Proposal. Functional and non-functional requirements are distinguished. The solutions are rated with respect to scope, appropriateness and quality of implementation. A PACS checklist was created according to the methods described above. It is published on the homepage of the "Arbeitsgemeinschaft Informationstechnologie" (AGIT) within the "Deutsche Röntgengesellschaft" (DRG) (http://www.uni-marburg.de/mzr/agit). The checklist provides a discussion forum which should contribute to an agreement on accepted basic PACS functionalities.

Development of the output monitor with single-chip microcomputer in a time-keeping system.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Jiguang; Gong, Yuanfang

An output monitor has been designed with Intel 8031 single-chip microcomputer for a time working station. The functions of the instrument include the comparable measurement of the clocks, the buffer output of time and frequency signals, the monitoring and alarming of working state etc. The principle and application of the instrument are described.

Goal Conflict and Facilitation as Predictors of Work-Family Satisfaction and Engagement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wiese, Bettina S.; Salmela-Aro, Katariina

2008-01-01

In a study of working adults (N = 131; Mean age = 43.52 yrs; 62 males) in Germany and Finland, the mean level of goal facilitation was found to be significantly higher than that of goal interference. Hence, many individuals seem to be rather successful in constructing a personal goal system that is functional in terms of supportive links. As…

Examining the premises supporting the empirically supported intervention approach to social work practice.

PubMed

McBeath, Bowen; Briggs, Harold E; Aisenberg, Eugene

2010-10-01

Federal, state, and local policymakers and funders have increasingly organized human service delivery functions around the selection and implementation of empirically supported interventions (ESIs), under the expectation that service delivery through such intervention frameworks results in improvements in cost-effectiveness and system performance. This article examines the validity of four premises undergirding the ESI approach: ESIs are effective, relevant to common client problems and needs, culturally appropriate, and replicable and sustainable in community-based settings. In reviewing available literature, the authors found insufficient support for the uniform application of an ESI approach to social work practice in the human service sector, particularly as applied within agency contexts serving ethnic minority clients. The authors recommend that greater attention be devoted to the development and dissemination of social work interventions that respond to needs that are broadly understood and shared across diverse cultural groups, have proven clinical efficacy, and can be translated successfully for use across different agency and cultural environments. Such attention to the research and development function of the social work profession is increasingly necessary as policymakers and human service system architects require reduced costs and improved performance for programs serving historically oppressed client populations.

Traction force microscopy of engineered cardiac tissues.

PubMed

Pasqualini, Francesco Silvio; Agarwal, Ashutosh; O'Connor, Blakely Bussie; Liu, Qihan; Sheehy, Sean P; Parker, Kevin Kit

2018-01-01

Cardiac tissue development and pathology have been shown to depend sensitively on microenvironmental mechanical factors, such as extracellular matrix stiffness, in both in vivo and in vitro systems. We present a novel quantitative approach to assess cardiac structure and function by extending the classical traction force microscopy technique to tissue-level preparations. Using this system, we investigated the relationship between contractile proficiency and metabolism in neonate rat ventricular myocytes (NRVM) cultured on gels with stiffness mimicking soft immature (1 kPa), normal healthy (13 kPa), and stiff diseased (90 kPa) cardiac microenvironments. We found that tissues engineered on the softest gels generated the least amount of stress and had the smallest work output. Conversely, cardiomyocytes in tissues engineered on healthy- and disease-mimicking gels generated significantly higher stresses, with the maximal contractile work measured in NRVM engineered on gels of normal stiffness. Interestingly, although tissues on soft gels exhibited poor stress generation and work production, their basal metabolic respiration rate was significantly more elevated than in other groups, suggesting a highly ineffective coupling between energy production and contractile work output. Our novel platform can thus be utilized to quantitatively assess the mechanotransduction pathways that initiate tissue-level structural and functional remodeling in response to substrate stiffness.

Using neural networks and Dyna algorithm for integrated planning, reacting and learning in systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lima, Pedro; Beard, Randal

1992-01-01

The traditional AI answer to the decision making problem for a robot is planning. However, planning is usually CPU-time consuming, depending on the availability and accuracy of a world model. The Dyna system generally described in earlier work, uses trial and error to learn a world model which is simultaneously used to plan reactions resulting in optimal action sequences. It is an attempt to integrate planning, reactive, and learning systems. The architecture of Dyna is presented. The different blocks are described. There are three main components of the system. The first is the world model used by the robot for internal world representation. The input of the world model is the current state and the action taken in the current state. The output is the corresponding reward and resulting state. The second module in the system is the policy. The policy observes the current state and outputs the action to be executed by the robot. At the beginning of program execution, the policy is stochastic and through learning progressively becomes deterministic. The policy decides upon an action according to the output of an evaluation function, which is the third module of the system. The evaluation function takes the following as input: the current state of the system, the action taken in that state, the resulting state, and a reward generated by the world which is proportional to the current distance from the goal state. Originally, the work proposed was as follows: (1) to implement a simple 2-D world where a 'robot' is navigating around obstacles, to learn the path to a goal, by using lookup tables; (2) to substitute the world model and Q estimate function Q by neural networks; and (3) to apply the algorithm to a more complex world where the use of a neural network would be fully justified. In this paper, the system design and achieved results will be described. First we implement the world model with a neural network and leave Q implemented as a look up table. Next, we use a lookup table for the world model and implement the Q function with a neural net. Time limitations prevented the combination of these two approaches. The final section discusses the results and gives clues for future work.

U1108 performance model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trachta, G.

1976-01-01

A model of Univac 1108 work flow has been developed to assist in performance evaluation studies and configuration planning. Workload profiles and system configurations are parameterized for ease of experimental modification. Outputs include capacity estimates and performance evaluation functions. The U1108 system is conceptualized as a service network; classical queueing theory is used to evaluate network dynamics.

The Story of Nanomaterials in Modern Technology: An Advanced Course for Chemistry Teachers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blonder, Ron

2011-01-01

Nanoscience is an important new field in modern science. It deals with the ability to create materials, devices, and systems having fundamentally new properties and functions by working at the atomic, molecular, and macromolecular levels. Many teachers in the educational system have relatively limited knowledge related to nanochemistry and…

Equilibrator: Modeling Chemical Equilibria with Excel

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Vander Griend, Douglas A.

2011-01-01

Equilibrator is a Microsoft Excel program for learning about chemical equilibria through modeling, similar in function to EQS4WIN, which is no longer supported and does not work well with newer Windows operating systems. Similar to EQS4WIN, Equilibrator allows the user to define a system with temperature, initial moles, and then either total…

Intelligent transportation system (ITS) study for the Buffalo and Niagara Falls metropolitan area, Erie and Niagara Counties, New York : functional requirements, working paper #4

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-06-18

This paper is the fourth in a series that together will comprise an Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) Study for the Buffalo / Niagara Falls region. This document presents the market packages for the deployment of the Buffalo/Niagara Falls area ...

Qudas Power Plant Turbine Restoration Project and Qudas Power Plant Expansion Project Baghdad, Iraq. Project and Sustainment Assessment

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-10-19

HGPI); Combustion Inspections (CI); and inspection and scheduled critical maintenance on all auxillary systems of the four GE Frame 9E units located...Work requirements for a functional end product. 6 services and scheduled critical maintenance on all auxillary systems of the four GE Frame

The influence of the glutamatergic system on cognition in schizophrenia: A systematic review.

PubMed

Thomas, Elizabeth H X; Bozaoglu, Kiymet; Rossell, Susan L; Gurvich, Caroline

2017-06-01

Previous literature showing the role of the glutamatergic system on cognition in schizophrenia has been inconclusive. 44 relevant pharmacological, candidate gene and neuroimaging studies were identified through systematic search following PRISMA guidelines. To be included, studies must have observed at least one objective measure of cognitive performance in patients with schizophrenia and either manipulated or measured the glutamatergic system. Of the cognitive domains observed, memory, working memory and executive functions appear to be most influenced by the glutamatergic pathway. In addition, evidence from the literature suggests that presynaptic components synthesis and uptake of glutamate is involved in memory, while postsynaptic signalling appears to be involved in working memory. In addition, it appears that the glutamatergic pathway is particularly involved in cognitive flexibility and learning potential in regards to executive functioning. The glutamatergic system appears to contribute to the cognitive deficits in schizophrenia, whereby different parts of the pathway are associated with different cognitive domains. This review demonstrates the necessity for cognition to be examined by domain as opposed to globally. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Processing speed enhances model-based over model-free reinforcement learning in the presence of high working memory functioning

PubMed Central

Schad, Daniel J.; Jünger, Elisabeth; Sebold, Miriam; Garbusow, Maria; Bernhardt, Nadine; Javadi, Amir-Homayoun; Zimmermann, Ulrich S.; Smolka, Michael N.; Heinz, Andreas; Rapp, Michael A.; Huys, Quentin J. M.

2014-01-01

Theories of decision-making and its neural substrates have long assumed the existence of two distinct and competing valuation systems, variously described as goal-directed vs. habitual, or, more recently and based on statistical arguments, as model-free vs. model-based reinforcement-learning. Though both have been shown to control choices, the cognitive abilities associated with these systems are under ongoing investigation. Here we examine the link to cognitive abilities, and find that individual differences in processing speed covary with a shift from model-free to model-based choice control in the presence of above-average working memory function. This suggests shared cognitive and neural processes; provides a bridge between literatures on intelligence and valuation; and may guide the development of process models of different valuation components. Furthermore, it provides a rationale for individual differences in the tendency to deploy valuation systems, which may be important for understanding the manifold neuropsychiatric diseases associated with malfunctions of valuation. PMID:25566131

The algebra of two dimensional generalized Chebyshev-Koornwinder oscillator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Borzov, V. V.; Damaskinsky, E. V.

2014-10-01

In the previous works of Borzov and Damaskinsky ["Chebyshev-Koornwinder oscillator," Theor. Math. Phys. 175(3), 765-772 (2013)] and ["Ladder operators for Chebyshev-Koornwinder oscillator," in Proceedings of the Days on Diffraction, 2013], the authors have defined the oscillator-like system that is associated with the two variable Chebyshev-Koornwinder polynomials. We call this system the generalized Chebyshev-Koornwinder oscillator. In this paper, we study the properties of infinite-dimensional Lie algebra that is analogous to the Heisenberg algebra for the Chebyshev-Koornwinder oscillator. We construct the exact irreducible representation of this algebra in a Hilbert space H of functions that are defined on a region which is bounded by the Steiner hypocycloid. The functions are square-integrable with respect to the orthogonality measure for the Chebyshev-Koornwinder polynomials and these polynomials form an orthonormalized basis in the space H. The generalized oscillator which is studied in the work can be considered as the simplest nontrivial example of multiboson quantum system that is composed of three interacting oscillators.

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

Borzov, V. V., E-mail: borzov.vadim@yandex.ru; Damaskinsky, E. V., E-mail: evd@pdmi.ras.ru

In the previous works of Borzov and Damaskinsky [“Chebyshev-Koornwinder oscillator,” Theor. Math. Phys. 175(3), 765–772 (2013)] and [“Ladder operators for Chebyshev-Koornwinder oscillator,” in Proceedings of the Days on Diffraction, 2013], the authors have defined the oscillator-like system that is associated with the two variable Chebyshev-Koornwinder polynomials. We call this system the generalized Chebyshev-Koornwinder oscillator. In this paper, we study the properties of infinite-dimensional Lie algebra that is analogous to the Heisenberg algebra for the Chebyshev-Koornwinder oscillator. We construct the exact irreducible representation of this algebra in a Hilbert space H of functions that are defined on a region which ismore » bounded by the Steiner hypocycloid. The functions are square-integrable with respect to the orthogonality measure for the Chebyshev-Koornwinder polynomials and these polynomials form an orthonormalized basis in the space H. The generalized oscillator which is studied in the work can be considered as the simplest nontrivial example of multiboson quantum system that is composed of three interacting oscillators.« less

Modernizing an ambulatory care pharmacy in a large multi-clinic institution.

PubMed

Miller, R F; Herrick, J D

1979-03-01

The steps involved in modernizing an outdated outpatient pharmacy, including the functional planning process, development of a work-flow pattern which makes the patient an integral part of the system, budget considerations and evaluation of the new pharmacy, are described. Objectives of the modernization were to: (1) provide a facility conductive to efficient and high quality services to the ambulatory patient; (2) provide an attractive and comfortable area for patients and staff; (3) provide a work flow which keeps the patient in the system and allows the pharmacist time for instruction and patient education; and (4) establish a patient medication record system. After one year of operation, average overall prescription volume increased by 50%, while average waiting time declined by 74%. Facility and procedural changes allowed the pharmacist to substantially increase patient counseling activity. The application of functional planning and facility design to the renovation and restructuring of an outpatient pharmacy allowed pharmacists to provide efficient, patient-oriented service.

Concept of contrast transfer function for edge illumination x-ray phase-contrast imaging and its comparison with the free-space propagation technique.

PubMed

Diemoz, Paul C; Vittoria, Fabio A; Olivo, Alessandro

2016-05-16

Previous studies on edge illumination (EI) X-ray phase-contrast imaging (XPCi) have investigated the nature and amplitude of the signal provided by this technique. However, the response of the imaging system to different object spatial frequencies was never explicitly considered and studied. This is required in order to predict the performance of a given EI setup for different classes of objects. To this scope, in the present work we derive analytical expressions for the contrast transfer function of an EI imaging system, using the approximation of near-field regime, and study its dependence upon the main experimental parameters. We then exploit these results to compare the frequency response of an EI system with respect of that of a free-space propagation XPCi one. The results achieved in this work can be useful for predicting the signals obtainable for different types of objects and also as a basis for new retrieval methods.

A socio-technical approach for improving a Brazilian shoe manufacturing system.

PubMed

Renner, J S; de M Guimarães, L B; de Oliveira, P A B

2012-01-01

This article presents a macroergonomic intervention in a footwear company in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, to improve both the quality of life of the employees and productivity by optimizing the traditional Taylor/Ford work organization. Multi-functionality and team working were implemented as means of making tasks more flexible and richer and the working hours were changed. The results showed a reduction in human and material resource costs and a consequent improvement in health and workers quality of life. Although middle managerial staff displayed strong resistance to the project and to breaking traditional production paradigms, the socio-technical system has been implemented throughout the plant and is expected to end up becoming the benchmark for other companies in the sector. Macro-ergonomics, footwear industry, organization work.

Von Bertalanffy's dynamics under a polynomial correction: Allee effect and big bang bifurcation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leonel Rocha, J.; Taha, A. K.; Fournier-Prunaret, D.

2016-02-01

In this work we consider new one-dimensional populational discrete dynamical systems in which the growth of the population is described by a family of von Bertalanffy's functions, as a dynamical approach to von Bertalanffy's growth equation. The purpose of introducing Allee effect in those models is satisfied under a correction factor of polynomial type. We study classes of von Bertalanffy's functions with different types of Allee effect: strong and weak Allee's functions. Dependent on the variation of four parameters, von Bertalanffy's functions also includes another class of important functions: functions with no Allee effect. The complex bifurcation structures of these von Bertalanffy's functions is investigated in detail. We verified that this family of functions has particular bifurcation structures: the big bang bifurcation of the so-called “box-within-a-box” type. The big bang bifurcation is associated to the asymptotic weight or carrying capacity. This work is a contribution to the study of the big bang bifurcation analysis for continuous maps and their relationship with explosion birth and extinction phenomena.

Static, Dynamic and Semantic Dimensions: Towards a Multidisciplinary Approach of Social Networks Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thovex, Christophe; Trichet, Francky

The objective of our work is to extend static and dynamic models of Social Networks Analysis (SNA), by taking conceptual aspects of enterprises and institutions social graph into account. The originality of our multidisciplinary work is to introduce abstract notions of electro-physic to define new measures in SNA, for new decision-making functions dedicated to Human Resource Management (HRM). This paper introduces a multidimensional system and new measures: (1) a tension measure for social network analysis, (2) an electrodynamic, predictive and semantic system for recommendations on social graphs evolutions and (3) a reactance measure used to evaluate the individual stress at work of the members of a social network.

Principles of time evolution in classical physics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Güémez, J.; Fiolhais, M.

2018-07-01

We address principles of time evolution in classical mechanical/thermodynamical systems in translational and rotational motion, in three cases: when there is conservation of mechanical energy, when there is energy dissipation and when there is mechanical energy production. In the first case, the time derivative of the Hamiltonian vanishes. In the second one, when dissipative forces are present, the time evolution is governed by the minimum potential energy principle, or, equivalently, maximum increase of the entropy of the universe. Finally, in the third situation, when internal sources of work are available to the system, it evolves in time according to the principle of minimum Gibbs function. We apply the Lagrangian formulation to the systems, dealing with the non-conservative forces using restriction functions such as the Rayleigh dissipative function.

Ab initio investigation of barium-scandium-oxygen coatings on tungsten for electron emitting cathodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vlahos, Vasilios; Booske, John H.; Morgan, Dane

2010-02-01

Microwave, x-ray, and radio-frequency radiation sources require a cathode emitting electrons into vacuum. Thermionic B-type dispenser cathodes consist of BaxOz coatings on tungsten (W), where the surface coatings lower the W work function and enhance electron emission. The new and promising class of scandate cathodes modifies the B-type surface through inclusion of Sc, and their superior emissive properties are also believed to stem from the formation of a low work function surface alloy. In order to better understand these cathode systems, density-functional theory (DFT)-based ab initio modeling is used to explore the stability and work function of BaxScyOz on W(001) monolayer-type surface structures. It is demonstrated how surface depolarization effects can be calculated easily using ab initio calculations and fitted to an analytic depolarization equation. This approach enables the rapid extraction of the complete depolarization curve (work function versus coverage relation) from relatively few DFT calculations, useful for understanding and characterizing the emitting properties of novel cathode materials. It is generally believed that the B-type cathode has some concentration of Ba-O dimers on the W surface, although their structure is not known. Calculations suggest that tilted Ba-O dimers are the stable dimer surface configuration and can explain the observed work function reduction corresponding to various dimer coverages. Tilted Ba-O dimers represent a new surface coating structure not previously proposed for the activated B-type cathode. The thermodynamically stable phase of Ba and O on the W surface was identified to be the Ba0.25O configuration, possessing a significantly lower Φ value than any of the Ba-O dimer configurations investigated. The identification of a more stable Ba0.25O phase implies that if Ba-O dimers cover the surface of emitting B-type cathodes, then a nonequilibrium steady state must dominate the emitting surface. The identification of a stable and low work function Ba0.25Sc0.25O structure suggests that addition of Sc to the B-type cathode surface could form this alloy structure under operating conditions, leading to improved cathode performance and stability. Detailed comparison to previous experimental results of BaxScyOz on W surface coatings are made to both validate the modeling and aid in interpretation of experimental data. The studies presented here demonstrate that ab initio methods are powerful for understanding the fundamental physics of electron emitting materials systems and can potentially aid in the development of improved cathodes.

Parameter Estimation as a Problem in Statistical Thermodynamics.

PubMed

Earle, Keith A; Schneider, David J

2011-03-14

In this work, we explore the connections between parameter fitting and statistical thermodynamics using the maxent principle of Jaynes as a starting point. In particular, we show how signal averaging may be described by a suitable one particle partition function, modified for the case of a variable number of particles. These modifications lead to an entropy that is extensive in the number of measurements in the average. Systematic error may be interpreted as a departure from ideal gas behavior. In addition, we show how to combine measurements from different experiments in an unbiased way in order to maximize the entropy of simultaneous parameter fitting. We suggest that fit parameters may be interpreted as generalized coordinates and the forces conjugate to them may be derived from the system partition function. From this perspective, the parameter fitting problem may be interpreted as a process where the system (spectrum) does work against internal stresses (non-optimum model parameters) to achieve a state of minimum free energy/maximum entropy. Finally, we show how the distribution function allows us to define a geometry on parameter space, building on previous work[1, 2]. This geometry has implications for error estimation and we outline a program for incorporating these geometrical insights into an automated parameter fitting algorithm.

Managing Sustainable Data Infrastructures: The Gestalt of EOSDIS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Behnke, Jeanne; Lowe, Dawn; Lindsay, Francis; Lynnes, Chris; Mitchell, Andrew

2016-01-01

EOSDIS epitomizes a System of Systems, whose many varied and distributed parts are integrated into a single, highly functional organized science data system. A distributed architecture was adopted to ensure discipline-specific support for the science data, while also leveraging standards and establishing policies and tools to enable interdisciplinary research, and analysis across multiple scientific instruments. The EOSDIS is composed of system elements such as geographically distributed archive centers used to manage the stewardship of data. The infrastructure consists of underlying capabilities connections that enable the primary system elements to function together. For example, one key infrastructure component is the common metadata repository, which enables discovery of all data within the EOSDIS system. EOSDIS employs processes and standards to ensure partners can work together effectively, and provide coherent services to users.

Neuroimmune Axes of the Blood–Brain Barriers and Blood–Brain Interfaces: Bases for Physiological Regulation, Disease States, and Pharmacological Interventions

PubMed Central

Erickson, Michelle A.

2018-01-01

Central nervous system (CNS) barriers predominantly mediate the immune-privileged status of the brain, and are also important regulators of neuroimmune communication. It is increasingly appreciated that communication between the brain and immune system contributes to physiologic processes, adaptive responses, and disease states. In this review, we discuss the highly specialized features of brain barriers that regulate neuroimmune communication in health and disease. In section I, we discuss the concept of immune privilege, provide working definitions of brain barriers, and outline the historical work that contributed to the understanding of CNS barrier functions. In section II, we discuss the unique anatomic, cellular, and molecular characteristics of the vascular blood–brain barrier (BBB), blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier, and tanycytic barriers that confer their functions as neuroimmune interfaces. In section III, we consider BBB-mediated neuroimmune functions and interactions categorized as five neuroimmune axes: disruption, responses to immune stimuli, uptake and transport of immunoactive substances, immune cell trafficking, and secretions of immunoactive substances. In section IV, we discuss neuroimmune functions of CNS barriers in physiologic and disease states, as well as pharmacological interventions for CNS diseases. Throughout this review, we highlight many recent advances that have contributed to the modern understanding of CNS barriers and their interface functions. PMID:29496890

Histology Atlas of the Developing Mouse Hepatobiliary System with Emphasis on Embryonic Days 9.5-18.5

PubMed Central

Crawford, Laura Wilding; Foley, Julie F.; Elmore, Susan A.

2012-01-01

Animal model phenotyping, in utero exposure toxiciy studies, and investigation into causes of embryonic, fetal, or perinatal deaths have required pathologists to recognize and diagnose developmental disorders in spontaneous and engineered mouse models of disease. In mammals, the liver is the main site of hematopoiesis during fetal development, has endocrine and exocrine functions important for maintaining homeostasis in fetal and adult life; and performs other functions including waste detoxification, production and removal of glucose, glycogen storage, triglyceride and fatty acid processing, and serum protein production. Due to its role in many critical functions, alterations in the size, morphology, or function(s) of the liver often lead to embryonic lethality. Many publications and websites describe individual aspects of hepatobiliary development at defined stages. However, no single resource provides a detailed histological evaluation of H&E-stained sections of the developing murine liver and biliary systems using high-magnification and high-resolution color images. The work herein provides a histology atlas of hepatobiliary development between embryonic days 9.5-18.5. Although the focus of this work is normal hepatobiliary development, common defects in liver development are also described as a reference for pathologists who may be asked to phenotype mice with congenital, inherited, or treatment-related hepatobiliary defects. PMID:20805319

Classification in childhood disability: focusing on function in the 21st century.

PubMed

Rosenbaum, Peter; Eliasson, Ann-Christin; Hidecker, Mary Jo Cooley; Palisano, Robert J

2014-08-01

Classification systems in health care are usually based on current understanding of the condition. They are often derived empirically and adopted applying sound principles of measurement science to assess whether they are reliable (consistent) and valid (true) for the purposes to which they are applied. In the past 15 years, the authors have developed and validated classification systems for specific aspects of everyday function in people with cerebral palsy--gross motor function, manual abilities, and communicative function. This article describes the approaches used to conceptualize each aspect of function, develop the tools, and assess their reliability and validity. We report on the utility of each system with respect to clinical applicability, use of these tools for research, and the uptake and impact that they have had around the world. We hope that readers will find these accounts interesting, relevant, and applicable to their daily work with children and youth with disabilities. © The Author(s) 2014.

EEG study of the mirror neuron system in children with high functioning autism.

PubMed

Raymaekers, Ruth; Wiersema, Jan Roelf; Roeyers, Herbert

2009-12-22

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are characterised by an impaired imitation, thought to be critical for early affective, social and communicative development. One neurological system proposed to underlie this function is the mirror neuron system (MNS) and previous research has suggested a dysfunctional MNS in ASD. The EEG mu frequency, more precisely the reduction of the mu power, is considered to be an index for mirror neuron functioning. In this work, EEG registrations are used to evaluate the mirror neuron functioning of twenty children with high functioning autism (HFA) between 8 and 13 years. Their mu suppression to self-executed and observed movement is compared to typically developing peers and related to age, intelligence and symptom severity. Both groups show significant mu suppression to both self and observed hand movements. No group differences are found in either condition. These results do not support the hypothesis that HFA is associated with a dysfunctional MNS. The discrepancy with previous research is discussed in light of the heterogeneity of the ASD population.

Immune functions of the garment workers.

PubMed

Sultana, R; Ferdous, K J; Hossain, M; Zahid, M S H; Islam, L N

2012-10-01

Occupational exposure to cotton dust, fibers, metal fumes and different chemicals used in the aparrel manufacturing industries cause a wide range of physical and psychological health problems in the garment workers that may also affect their immune function. To assess the immune system function in garment workers. A total of 45 workers of a garment factory, and 41 control subjects, not exposed to the garment working environment were enrolled in this study. In the study subjects, the complement system function was assessed as bactericidal activity on Escherichia coli DH5α cells using the standard plate count method. Serum complement components C3 and C4 were measured by immunoprecipitation, and IgG was measured by immunonephelometry. The bactericidal activity of serum complement in the garment workers (range: 93.5%-99.9%) was significantly (p<0.01) lower than that in the controls (range: 98.6%-100%). The heat-inactivated serum of the workers showed a significantly enhanced bactericidal activity. In the garment workers, the mean levels of complement C3, and C4 were 1.75 and 0.26 g/L, respectively that were close to those of the controls. The mean IgG level in the garment workers was 13.5 g/L that was significantly (p<0.001) higher than that in the controls. Working in a garment factory may affect the immune system.

Putting Words in Their Mouths: The Alignment of Identities with System Goals through the Use of Individual Learning Plans

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hamilton, Mary

2009-01-01

This article analyses the role of Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) in teachers' work in the "Skills for Life" sector. It shows how ILPs, originally a means of formative assessment, have become part of a system of performance indicators and function as a key mediating mechanism between local interactions and system goals. The article…

Real-time state estimation in a flight simulator using fNIRS.

PubMed

Gateau, Thibault; Durantin, Gautier; Lancelot, Francois; Scannella, Sebastien; Dehais, Frederic

2015-01-01

Working memory is a key executive function for flying an aircraft. This function is particularly critical when pilots have to recall series of air traffic control instructions. However, working memory limitations may jeopardize flight safety. Since the functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) method seems promising for assessing working memory load, our objective is to implement an on-line fNIRS-based inference system that integrates two complementary estimators. The first estimator is a real-time state estimation MACD-based algorithm dedicated to identifying the pilot's instantaneous mental state (not-on-task vs. on-task). It does not require a calibration process to perform its estimation. The second estimator is an on-line SVM-based classifier that is able to discriminate task difficulty (low working memory load vs. high working memory load). These two estimators were tested with 19 pilots who were placed in a realistic flight simulator and were asked to recall air traffic control instructions. We found that the estimated pilot's mental state matched significantly better than chance with the pilot's real state (62% global accuracy, 58% specificity, and 72% sensitivity). The second estimator, dedicated to assessing single trial working memory loads, led to 80% classification accuracy, 72% specificity, and 89% sensitivity. These two estimators establish reusable blocks for further fNIRS-based passive brain computer interface development.

Geoinformation web-system for processing and visualization of large archives of geo-referenced data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gordov, E. P.; Okladnikov, I. G.; Titov, A. G.; Shulgina, T. M.

2010-12-01

Developed working model of information-computational system aimed at scientific research in area of climate change is presented. The system will allow processing and analysis of large archives of geophysical data obtained both from observations and modeling. Accumulated experience of developing information-computational web-systems providing computational processing and visualization of large archives of geo-referenced data was used during the implementation (Gordov et al, 2007; Okladnikov et al, 2008; Titov et al, 2009). Functional capabilities of the system comprise a set of procedures for mathematical and statistical analysis, processing and visualization of data. At present five archives of data are available for processing: 1st and 2nd editions of NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis, ECMWF ERA-40 Reanalysis, JMA/CRIEPI JRA-25 Reanalysis, and NOAA-CIRES XX Century Global Reanalysis Version I. To provide data processing functionality a computational modular kernel and class library providing data access for computational modules were developed. Currently a set of computational modules for climate change indices approved by WMO is available. Also a special module providing visualization of results and writing to Encapsulated Postscript, GeoTIFF and ESRI shape files was developed. As a technological basis for representation of cartographical information in Internet the GeoServer software conforming to OpenGIS standards is used. Integration of GIS-functionality with web-portal software to provide a basis for web-portal’s development as a part of geoinformation web-system is performed. Such geoinformation web-system is a next step in development of applied information-telecommunication systems offering to specialists from various scientific fields unique opportunities of performing reliable analysis of heterogeneous geophysical data using approved computational algorithms. It will allow a wide range of researchers to work with geophysical data without specific programming knowledge and to concentrate on solving their specific tasks. The system would be of special importance for education in climate change domain. This work is partially supported by RFBR grant #10-07-00547, SB RAS Basic Program Projects 4.31.1.5 and 4.31.2.7, SB RAS Integration Projects 4 and 9.

Petri net controllers for distributed robotic systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lefebvre, D. R.; Saridis, George N.

1992-01-01

Petri nets are a well established modelling technique for analyzing parallel systems. When coupled with an event-driven operating system, Petri nets can provide an effective means for integrating and controlling the functions of distributed robotic applications. Recent work has shown that Petri net graphs can also serve as remarkably intuitive operator interfaces. In this paper, the advantages of using Petri nets as high-level controllers to coordinate robotic functions are outlined, the considerations for designing Petri net controllers are discussed, and simple Petri net structures for implementing an interface for operator supervision are presented. A detailed example is presented which illustrates these concepts for a sensor-based assembly application.

The origin and function of mirror neurons: the missing link.

PubMed

Lingnau, Angelika; Caramazza, Alfonso

2014-04-01

We argue, by analogy to the neural organization of the object recognition system, that demonstration of modulation of mirror neurons by associative learning does not imply absence of genetic adaptation. Innate connectivity defines the types of processes mirror neurons can participate in while allowing for extensive local plasticity. However, the proper function of these neurons remains to be worked out.

Re-engineering the Multimission Command System at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Alexander, Scott; Biesiadecki, Jeff; Cox, Nagin; Murphy, Susan C.; Reeve, Tim

1994-01-01

The Operations Engineering Lab (OEL) at JPL has developed the multimission command system as part of JPL's Advanced Multimission Operations System. The command system provides an advanced multimission environment for secure, concurrent commanding of multiple spacecraft. The command functions include real-time command generation, command translation and radiation, status reporting, some remote control of Deep Space Network antenna functions, and command file management. The mission-independent architecture has allowed easy adaptation to new flight projects and the system currently supports all JPL planetary missions (Voyager, Galileo, Magellan, Ulysses, Mars Pathfinder, and CASSINI). This paper will discuss the design and implementation of the command software, especially trade-offs and lessons learned from practical operational use. The lessons learned have resulted in a re-engineering of the command system, especially in its user interface and new automation capabilities. The redesign has allowed streamlining of command operations with significant improvements in productivity and ease of use. In addition, the new system has provided a command capability that works equally well for real-time operations and within a spacecraft testbed. This paper will also discuss new development work including a multimission command database toolkit, a universal command translator for sequencing and real-time commands, and incorporation of telecommand capabilities for new missions.

Sptrace

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burleigh, Scott C.

2011-01-01

Sptrace is a general-purpose space utilization tracing system that is conceptually similar to the commercial Purify product used to detect leaks and other memory usage errors. It is designed to monitor space utilization in any sort of heap, i.e., a region of data storage on some device (nominally memory; possibly shared and possibly persistent) with a flat address space. This software can trace usage of shared and/or non-volatile storage in addition to private RAM (random access memory). Sptrace is implemented as a set of C function calls that are invoked from within the software that is being examined. The function calls fall into two broad classes: (1) functions that are embedded within the heap management software [e.g., JPL's SDR (Simple Data Recorder) and PSM (Personal Space Management) systems] to enable heap usage analysis by populating a virtual time-sequenced log of usage activity, and (2) reporting functions that are embedded within the application program whose behavior is suspect. For ease of use, these functions may be wrapped privately inside public functions offered by the heap management software. Sptrace can be used for VxWorks or RTEMS realtime systems as easily as for Linux or OS/X systems.

A Method for Capturing and Reconciling Stakeholder Intentions Based on the Formal Concept Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aoyama, Mikio

Information systems are ubiquitous in our daily life. Thus, information systems need to work appropriately anywhere at any time for everybody. Conventional information systems engineering tends to engineer systems from the viewpoint of systems functionality. However, the diversity of the usage context requires fundamental change compared to our current thinking on information systems; from the functionality the systems provide to the goals the systems should achieve. The intentional approach embraces the goals and related aspects of the information systems. This chapter presents a method for capturing, structuring and reconciling diverse goals of multiple stakeholders. The heart of the method lies in the hierarchical structuring of goals by goal lattice based on the formal concept analysis, a semantic extension of the lattice theory. We illustrate the effectiveness of the presented method through application to the self-checkout systems for large-scale supermarkets.

Equilibrium properties of simple metal thin films in the self-compressed stabilized jellium model.

PubMed

Mahmoodi, T; Payami, M

2009-07-01

In this work, we have applied the self-compressed stabilized jellium model to predict the equilibrium properties of isolated thin Al, Na and Cs slabs. To make a direct correspondence to atomic slabs, we have considered only those L values that correspond to n-layered atomic slabs with 2≤n≤20, for surface indices (100), (110), and (111). The calculations are based on the density functional theory and self-consistent solution of the Kohn-Sham equations in the local density approximation. Our results show that firstly, the quantum size effects are significant for slabs with sizes smaller than or near to the Fermi wavelength of the valence electrons λ(F), and secondly, some slabs expand while others contract with respect to the bulk spacings. Based on the results, we propose a criterion for realization of significant quantum size effects that lead to expansion of some thin slabs. For more justification of the criterion, we have tested it on Li slabs for 2≤n≤6. We have compared our Al results with those obtained from using all-electron or pseudo-potential first-principles calculations. This comparison shows excellent agreements for Al(100) work functions, and qualitatively good agreements for the other work functions and surface energies. These agreements justify the way we have used the self-compressed stabilized jellium model for the correct description of the properties of simple metal slab systems. On the other hand, our results for the work functions and surface energies of large- n slabs are in good agreement with those obtained from applying the stabilized jellium model for semi-infinite systems. In addition, we have performed the slab calculations in the presence of surface corrugation for selected Al slabs and have shown that the results are worsened.

One-pot exfoliation, functionalization, and size manipulation of graphene sheets: efficient system for biomedical applications.

PubMed

Bani, Farhad; Bodaghi, Ali; Dadkhah, Abbas; Movahedi, Soodabeh; Bodaghabadi, Narges; Sadeghizadeh, Majid; Adeli, Mohsen

2018-05-01

In this work, we reported a facile method to produce stable aqueous graphene dispersion through direct exfoliation of graphite by modified hyperbranched polyglycerol. Size of graphene sheets was manipulated by simultaneous exfoliation and sonication of graphite, and functionalized graphene sheets with narrow size distribution were obtained. The polyglycerol-functionalized graphene sheets exhibited highly efficient cellular uptake and photothermal conversion, enabling it to serve as a photothermal agent for cancer therapy.

Biomimetic devices functionalized by membrane channel proteins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, Jacob

2004-03-01

We are developing a new family of active materials which derive their functional properties from membrane proteins. These materials have two primary components: the proteins and the membranes themselves. I will discuss our recent work directed toward development of a generic platform for a "plug-and-play" philosophy of membrane protein engineering. By creating a stable biomimetic polymer membrane a single molecular monolayer thick, we will enable the exploitation of the function of any membrane protein, from pores and pumps to sensors and energy transducers. Our initial work has centered on the creation, study, and characterization of the biomimetic membranes. We are attempting to make large areas of membrane monolayers using Langmuir-Blodgett film formation as well as through arrays of microfabricated black lipid membrane-type septa. A number of techniques allow the insertion of protein into the membranes. As a benchmark, we have been employing a model system of voltage-gated pore proteins, which have electrically controllable porosities. I will report on the progress of this work, the characterization of the membranes, protein insertion processes, and the yield and functionality of the composite.

Instant messaging at the hospital: supporting articulation work?

PubMed

Iversen, Tobias Buschmann; Melby, Line; Toussaint, Pieter

2013-09-01

Clinical work is increasingly fragmented and requires extensive articulation and coordination. Computer systems may support such work. In this study, we investigate how instant messaging functions as a tool for supporting articulation work at the hospital. This paper aims to describe the characteristics of instant messaging communication in terms of number and length of messages, distribution over time, and the number of participants included in conversations. We also aim to determine what kind of articulation work is supported by analysing message content. Analysis of one month's worth of instant messages sent through the perioperative coordination and communication system at a Danish hospital. Instant messaging was found to be used extensively for articulation work, mostly through short, simple conversational exchanges. It is used particularly often for communication concerning the patient, specifically, the coordination and logistics of patient care. Instant messaging is used by all actors involved in the perioperative domain. Articulation work and clinical work are hard to separate in a real clinical setting. Predefined messages and strict workflow design do not suffice when supporting communication in the context of collaborative clinical work. Flexibility is of vital importance, and this needs to be reflected in the design of supportive communication systems. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

On the thermodynamics of waste heat recovery from internal combustion engine exhaust gas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meisner, G. P.

2013-03-01

The ideal internal combustion (IC) engine (Otto Cycle) efficiency ηIC = 1-(1/r)(γ - 1) is only a function of engine compression ratio r =Vmax/Vmin and exhaust gas specific heat ratio γ = cP/cV. Typically r = 8, γ = 1.4, and ηIC = 56%. Unlike the Carnot Cycle where ηCarnot = 1-(TC/TH) for a heat engine operating between hot and cold heat reservoirs at TH and TC, respectively, ηIC is not a function of the exhaust gas temperature. Instead, the exhaust gas temperature depends only on the intake gas temperature (ambient), r, γ, cV, and the combustion energy. The ejected exhaust gas heat is thermally decoupled from the IC engine and conveyed via the exhaust system (manifold, pipe, muffler, etc.) to ambient, and the exhaust system is simply a heat engine that does no useful work. The maximum fraction of fuel energy that can be extracted from the exhaust gas stream as useful work is (1-ηIC) × ηCarnot = 32% for TH = 850 K (exhaust) and TC = 370 K (coolant). This waste heat can be recovered using a heat engine such as a thermoelectric generator (TEG) with ηTEG> 0 in the exhaust system. A combined IC engine and TEG system can generate net useful work from the exhaust gas waste heat with efficiency ηWH = (1-ηIC) × ηCarnot ×ηTEG , and this will increase the overall fuel efficiency of the total system. Recent improvements in TEGs yield ηTEG values approaching 15% giving a potential total waste heat conversion efficiency of ηWH = 4.6%, which translates into a fuel economy improvement approaching 5%. This work is supported by the US DOE under DE-EE0005432.

Fuel composition effect on cathode airflow control in fuel cell gas turbine hybrid systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Nana; Zaccaria, Valentina; Tucker, David

2018-04-01

Cathode airflow regulation is considered an effective means for thermal management in solid oxide fuel cell gas turbine (SOFC-GT) hybrid system. However, performance and controllability are observed to vary significantly with different fuel compositions. Because a complete system characterization with any possible fuel composition is not feasible, the need arises for robust controllers. The sufficiency of robust control is dictated by the effective change of operating state given the new composition used. It is possible that controller response could become unstable without a change in the gains from one state to the other. In this paper, cathode airflow transients are analyzed in a SOFC-GT system using syngas as fuel composition, comparing with previous work which used humidified hydrogen. Transfer functions are developed to map the relationship between the airflow bypass and several key variables. The impact of fuel composition on system control is quantified by evaluating the difference between gains and poles in transfer functions. Significant variations in the gains and the poles, more than 20% in most cases, are found in turbine rotational speed and cathode airflow. The results of this work provide a guideline for the development of future control strategies to face fuel composition changes.

Evidence for hubs in human functional brain networks

PubMed Central

Power, Jonathan D; Schlaggar, Bradley L; Lessov-Schlaggar, Christina N; Petersen, Steven E

2013-01-01

Summary Hubs integrate and distribute information in powerful ways due to the number and positioning of their contacts in a network. Several resting state functional connectivity MRI reports have implicated regions of the default mode system as brain hubs; we demonstrate that previous degree-based approaches to hub identification may have identified portions of large brain systems rather than critical nodes of brain networks. We utilize two methods to identify hub-like brain regions: 1) finding network nodes that participate in multiple sub-networks of the brain, and 2) finding spatial locations where several systems are represented within a small volume. These methods converge on a distributed set of regions that differ from previous reports on hubs. This work identifies regions that support multiple systems, leading to spatially constrained predictions about brain function that may be tested in terms of lesions, evoked responses, and dynamic patterns of activity. PMID:23972601

Padé spectrum decompositions of quantum distribution functions and optimal hierarchical equations of motion construction for quantum open systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hu, Jie; Luo, Meng; Jiang, Feng; Xu, Rui-Xue; Yan, YiJing

2011-06-01

Padé spectrum decomposition is an optimal sum-over-poles expansion scheme of Fermi function and Bose function [J. Hu, R. X. Xu, and Y. J. Yan, J. Chem. Phys. 133, 101106 (2010)], 10.1063/1.3484491. In this work, we report two additional members to this family, from which the best among all sum-over-poles methods could be chosen for different cases of application. Methods are developed for determining these three Padé spectrum decomposition expansions at machine precision via simple algorithms. We exemplify the applications of present development with optimal construction of hierarchical equations-of-motion formulations for nonperturbative quantum dissipation and quantum transport dynamics. Numerical demonstrations are given for two systems. One is the transient transport current to an interacting quantum-dots system, together with the involved high-order co-tunneling dynamics. Another is the non-Markovian dynamics of a spin-boson system.

Factors Leading to Effectiveness and Satisfaction in Civil Engineer Information Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-03-01

recently acquired MySQL in 2008 shortly after Oracle failed to acquire MySQL in 2007. For more information on policy implications concerning the use...individual level serves as the pertinent outcome variable and is used to evaluate and compare information systems in this study. Researchers have found...interim work information management system used by the Civil Engineer Operations Flight. The functions served by this system date back to the late

Reproducibility in Natural Language Processing: A Case Study of Two R Libraries for Mining PubMed/MEDLINE.

PubMed

Cohen, K Bretonnel; Xia, Jingbo; Roeder, Christophe; Hunter, Lawrence E

2016-05-01

There is currently a crisis in science related to highly publicized failures to reproduce large numbers of published studies. The current work proposes, by way of case studies, a methodology for moving the study of reproducibility in computational work to a full stage beyond that of earlier work. Specifically, it presents a case study in attempting to reproduce the reports of two R libraries for doing text mining of the PubMed/MEDLINE repository of scientific publications. The main findings are that a rational paradigm for reproduction of natural language processing papers can be established; the advertised functionality was difficult, but not impossible, to reproduce; and reproducibility studies can produce additional insights into the functioning of the published system. Additionally, the work on reproducibility lead to the production of novel user-centered documentation that has been accessed 260 times since its publication-an average of once a day per library.

Patient data management systems in intensive care--the situation in Europe.

PubMed

Metnitz, P G; Lenz, K

1995-09-01

Computerized Patient Data Management Systems (PDMS) have been developed for handling the enormous increase in data collection in ICUs. This study tries to evaluate the functionality of such systems installed in Europe. Criteria reflecting usefulness and practicality formed the basis of a questionnaire to be answered accurately by the vendors. We then examined functions provided and their implementation in European ICUs. Next, an "Information Delivery Test" evaluated variations in performance, taking questions arising from daily routine work and measured time of information delivery. ICUs located in Vienna (Austria), Antwerp (Belgium), Dortmund (Germany), Kuopio (Finland). 5 PDMS were selected on the basis of our inclusion criteria: commercial availability with at least one installation in Europe, bedside-based design, realization of international standards and a prescribed minimum of functionality. The "Table of Functions" shows an overview of functions and their implementation. "System analyses" indicates predominant differences in properties and functions found between the systems. Results of the "Information Delivery Tests" are shown in the graphic charts. Systems with graphical data presentation have advantages over systems presenting data mainly in numerical format. Time has come to form a medical establishment powerful enough to set standards and thus communicate with industrial partners as well as with hospital management responsible for planning, purchasing and implementing PDMS. Overall, communication between clinicians, nurses, computer scientists and PDMS vendors must be enhanced to achieve the common goal: useful and practical data management systems at ICUs.

High-speed imaging and small-scale explosive characterization techniques to understand effects of primary blast-induced injury on nerve cell structure and function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piehler, T.; Banton, R.; Zander, N.; Duckworth, J.; Benjamin, R.; Sparks, R.

2018-01-01

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is often associated with blast exposure. Even in the absence of penetrating injury or evidence of tissue injury on imaging, blast TBI may trigger a series of neural/glial cellular and functional changes. Unfortunately, the diagnosis and proper treatment of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by explosive blast is challenging, as it is not easy to clinically distinguish blast from non-blast TBI on the basis of patient symptoms. Damage to brain tissue, cell, and subcellular structures continues to occur slowly and in a manner undetectable by conventional imaging techniques. The threshold shock impulse levels required to induce damage and the cumulative effects upon multiple exposures are not well characterized. Understanding how functional and structural damage from realistic blast impact at cellular and tissue levels at variable timescales after mTBI events may be vital for understanding this injury phenomenon and for linking mechanically induced structural changes with measurable effects on the nervous system. Our working hypothesis is that there is some transient physiological dysfunction occurring at cellular and subcellular levels within the central nervous system due to primary blast exposure. We have developed a novel in vitro indoor experimental system that uses real military explosive charges to more accurately represent military blast exposure and to probe the effects of primary explosive blast on dissociated neurons. We believe this system offers a controlled experimental method to analyze and characterize primary explosive blast-induced cellular injury and to understand threshold injury phenomenon. This paper will also focus on the modeling aspect of our work and how it relates to the experimental work.

A Simulation Analysis of an Automated Identification Processor for the Tactical Air Control System.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-06-01

available at the work station for the M&I operators to identify aircraft. Some data is provided via the console such as the IFF/SIF and the airspace control...factors led to the development of efficient work stations for the functional positions in the air defense mission. Experimental Design Experiments are...techniques that helped keep the thesis work "on track"! The Research Design The research plan or design of this thesis effort is not unique. In fact

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

Ali, Amjad Majid; Albert, Don; Andersson, Par

SLURM is an open source, fault-tolerant, and highly scalable cluster management and job scheduling system for large and small computer clusters. As a cluster resource manager, SLURM has three key functions. First, it allocates exclusive and/or non-exclusive access to resources (compute nodes) to users for some duration of time so they can perform work. Second, it provides a framework for starting, executing, and monitoring work 9normally a parallel job) on the set of allocated nodes. Finally, it arbitrates conflicting requests for resources by managing a queue of pending work.

Creation of graphic database specifying android arm mechanism work envelope taking into account forbidden zones position

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pritykin, F. N.; Nebritov, V. I.

2017-06-01

The structure of graphic database specifying the shape and the work envelope projection position of an android arm mechanism with various positions of the known in advance forbidden zones is proposed. The technique of analytical assignment of the work envelope based on the methods of analytical geometry and theory of sets is represented. The conducted studies can be applied in creation of knowledge bases for intellectual systems of android control functioning independently in the sophisticated environment.

Analysis of bulk arrival queueing system with batch size dependent service and working vacation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niranjan, S. P.; Indhira, K.; Chandrasekaran, V. M.

2018-04-01

This paper concentrates on single server bulk arrival queue system with batch size dependent service and working vacation. The server provides service in two service modes depending upon the queue length. The server provides single service if the queue length is at least `a'. On the other hand the server provides fixed batch service if the queue length is at least `k' (k > a). Batch service is provided with some fixed batch size `k'. After completion of service if the queue length is less than `a' then the server leaves for working vacation. During working vacation customers are served with lower service rate than the regular service rate. Service during working vacation also contains two service modes. For the proposed model probability generating function of the queue length at an arbitrary time will be obtained by using supplementary variable technique. Some performance measures will also be presented with suitable numerical illustrations.

Articulatory rehearsal in verbal working memory: a possible neurocognitive endophenotype that differentiates between schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

PubMed

Gruber, Oliver; Gruber, Eva; Falkai, Peter

2006-09-11

Recent fMRI studies have identified brain systems underlying different components of working memory in healthy individuals. The aim of this study was to compare the functional integrity of these neural networks in terms of behavioural performance in patients with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and healthy controls. In order to detect specific working memory deficits based on dysfunctions of underlying brain circuits we used the same verbal and visuospatial Sternberg item-recognition tasks as in previous neuroimaging studies. Clinical and performance data from matched groups consisting of 14 subjects each were statistically analyzed. Schizophrenic patients exhibited pronounced impairments of both verbal and visuospatial working memory, whereas verbal working memory performance was preserved in schizoaffective patients. The findings provide first evidence that dysfunction of a brain system subserving articulatory rehearsal could represent a biological marker which differentiates between schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder.

Clock-Work Trade-Off Relation for Coherence in Quantum Thermodynamics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kwon, Hyukjoon; Jeong, Hyunseok; Jennings, David; Yadin, Benjamin; Kim, M. S.

2018-04-01

In thermodynamics, quantum coherences—superpositions between energy eigenstates—behave in distinctly nonclassical ways. Here we describe how thermodynamic coherence splits into two kinds—"internal" coherence that admits an energetic value in terms of thermodynamic work, and "external" coherence that does not have energetic value, but instead corresponds to the functioning of the system as a quantum clock. For the latter form of coherence, we provide dynamical constraints that relate to quantum metrology and macroscopicity, while for the former, we show that quantum states exist that have finite internal coherence yet with zero deterministic work value. Finally, under minimal thermodynamic assumptions, we establish a clock-work trade-off relation between these two types of coherences. This can be viewed as a form of time-energy conjugate relation within quantum thermodynamics that bounds the total maximum of clock and work resources for a given system.

Functional reasoning in diagnostic problem solving

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sticklen, Jon; Bond, W. E.; Stclair, D. C.

1988-01-01

This work is one facet of an integrated approach to diagnostic problem solving for aircraft and space systems currently under development. The authors are applying a method of modeling and reasoning about deep knowledge based on a functional viewpoint. The approach recognizes a level of device understanding which is intermediate between a compiled level of typical Expert Systems, and a deep level at which large-scale device behavior is derived from known properties of device structure and component behavior. At this intermediate functional level, a device is modeled in three steps. First, a component decomposition of the device is defined. Second, the functionality of each device/subdevice is abstractly identified. Third, the state sequences which implement each function are specified. Given a functional representation and a set of initial conditions, the functional reasoner acts as a consequence finder. The output of the consequence finder can be utilized in diagnostic problem solving. The paper also discussed ways in which this functional approach may find application in the aerospace field.

Beyond Kohn-Sham Approximation: Hybrid Multistate Wave Function and Density Functional Theory.

PubMed

Gao, Jiali; Grofe, Adam; Ren, Haisheng; Bao, Peng

2016-12-15

A multistate density functional theory (MSDFT) is presented in which the energies and densities for the ground and excited states are treated on the same footing using multiconfigurational approaches. The method can be applied to systems with strong correlation and to correctly describe the dimensionality of the conical intersections between strongly coupled dissociative potential energy surfaces. A dynamic-then-static framework for treating electron correlation is developed to first incorporate dynamic correlation into contracted state functions through block-localized Kohn-Sham density functional theory (KSDFT), followed by diagonalization of the effective Hamiltonian to include static correlation. MSDFT can be regarded as a hybrid of wave function and density functional theory. The method is built on and makes use of the current approximate density functional developed in KSDFT, yet it retains its computational efficiency to treat strongly correlated systems that are problematic for KSDFT but too large for accurate WFT. The results presented in this work show that MSDFT can be applied to photochemical processes involving conical intersections.

The Design of Distributed Micro Grid Energy Storage System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Ya-feng; Wang, Yan-ping

2018-03-01

Distributed micro-grid runs in island mode, the energy storage system is the core to maintain the micro-grid stable operation. For the problems that it is poor to adjust at work and easy to cause the volatility of micro-grid caused by the existing energy storage structure of fixed connection. In this paper, an array type energy storage structure is proposed, and the array type energy storage system structure and working principle are analyzed. Finally, the array type energy storage structure model is established based on MATLAB, the simulation results show that the array type energy storage system has great flexibility, which can maximize the utilization of energy storage system, guarantee the reliable operation of distributed micro-grid and achieve the function of peak clipping and valley filling.

Centrins in unicellular organisms: functional diversity and specialization.

PubMed

Zhang, Yu; He, Cynthia Y

2012-07-01

Centrins (also known as caltractins) are conserved, EF hand-containing proteins ubiquitously found in eukaryotes. Similar to calmodulins, the calcium-binding EF hands in centrins fold into two structurally similar domains separated by an alpha-helical linker region, shaping like a dumbbell. The small size (15-22 kDa) and domain organization of centrins and their functional diversity/specialization make them an ideal system to study protein structure-function relationship. Here, we review the work on centrins with a focus on their structures and functions characterized in unicellular organisms.

Generic worklist handler for workflow-enabled products

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmidt, Joachim; Meetz, Kirsten; Wendler, Thomas

1999-07-01

Workflow management (WfM) is an emerging field of medical information technology. It appears as a promising key technology to model, optimize and automate processes, for the sake of improved efficiency, reduced costs and improved patient care. The Application of WfM concepts requires the standardization of architectures and interfaces. A component of central interest proposed in this report is a generic work list handler: A standardized interface between a workflow enactment service and application system. Application systems with embedded work list handlers will be called 'Workflow Enabled Application Systems'. In this paper we discus functional requirements of work list handlers, as well as their integration into workflow architectures and interfaces. To lay the foundation for this specification, basic workflow terminology, the fundamentals of workflow management and - later in the paper - the available standards as defined by the Workflow Management Coalition are briefly reviewed.

Integrated modeling: a look back

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Briggs, Clark

2015-09-01

This paper discusses applications and implementation approaches used for integrated modeling of structural systems with optics over the past 30 years. While much of the development work focused on control system design, significant contributions were made in system modeling and computer-aided design (CAD) environments. Early work appended handmade line-of-sight models to traditional finite element models, such as the optical spacecraft concept from the ACOSS program. The IDEAS2 computational environment built in support of Space Station collected a wider variety of existing tools around a parametric database. Later, IMOS supported interferometer and large telescope mission studies at JPL with MATLAB modeling of structural dynamics, thermal analysis, and geometric optics. IMOS's predecessor was a simple FORTRAN command line interpreter for LQG controller design with additional functions that built state-space finite element models. Specialized language systems such as CAESY were formulated and prototyped to provide more complex object-oriented functions suited to control-structure interaction. A more recent example of optical modeling directly in mechanical CAD is used to illustrate possible future directions. While the value of directly posing the optical metric in system dynamics terms is well understood today, the potential payoff is illustrated briefly via project-based examples. It is quite likely that integrated structure thermal optical performance (STOP) modeling could be accomplished in a commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) tool set. The work flow could be adopted, for example, by a team developing a small high-performance optical or radio frequency (RF) instrument.

Method to study complex systems of mesons in lattice QCD

DOE PAGES

Detmold, William; Savage, Martin J.

2010-07-30

Correlation functions involving many hadrons allow finite density systems to be explored with Lattice QCD. Recently, systems with up to 12more » $$\\pi^+$$'s or $K^+$'s have been studied to determine the the $3$-$$\\pi^+$$ and $3$-$K^+$ interactions and the corresponding chemical potential has been determined as a function of density in each case. We derive recursion relations between correlation functions that allow us to extend this work to systems of arbitrary numbers of mesons and to systems containing arbitrary different types of mesons such as $$\\pi^+$$'s, $K^+$'s, $D^0$'s and $B^+$'s. These relations allow for the study of finite-density systems in arbitrary volumes, and the study of high-density systems. Systems comprised of up to N=12 m mesons can be explored with Lattice QCD calculations utilizing $m$ different sources for the quark propagators. As the recursion relations require only a small, N-independent, number of operations to derive the N+1 meson contractions from the N meson contractions, they are compuationally feasible.« less

The Association of Work Stress and Glycemic Status Is Partially Mediated by Autonomic Nervous System Function: Cross-Sectional Results from the Mannheim Industrial Cohort Study (MICS)

PubMed Central

Koenig, Julian; Li, Jian; Mauss, Daniel; Hoffmann, Kristina; Schmidt, Burkhard; Fischer, Joachim E.; Thayer, Julian F.

2016-01-01

Background Work stress is associated with an increased risk of pre-diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, and inflammation, as well as decreased autonomic nervous system function as measured, for example, via heart rate variability. We investigated the extent to which the association between work stress and glycemic status is mediated by vagally-mediated heart rate variability (vmHRV) and/or inflammation. Methods Cross-sectional data from the Mannheim Industrial Cohort Study (MICS) with 9,937 participants were analyzed. The root mean squared successive differences (RMSSD) from long-term heart rate monitoring during work and night time periods was used to index vmHRV. Fasting plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin were assessed to determine glycemic status. High sensitive C-reactive protein levels were observed as a measure of systemic inflammation and the Effort-Reward-Imbalance scale was used to evaluate work stress. Mediation models were adjusted for age, sex, and occupational status, and estimations were bootstrapped (5,000 replications). Results Effort-Reward-Imbalance was significantly negatively associated with RMSSD and both glycosylated hemoglobin and fasting plasma glucose during both work and night time periods. Effort-Reward-Imbalance was observed to have a significant direct effect on glycosylated hemoglobin and significant indirect effects, through RMSSD, on both glycemic measures during both time periods. Introducing C-reactive protein as a further mediator to the model did not alter the indirect effects observed. C-reactive protein, as an exclusive mediator, was observed to have smaller direct and indirect effects on the glycemic measures as compared to when Effort-Reward-Imbalance was included in the model. Conclusions Our results suggest that the association between work stress and glycemic status is partially mediated through vmHRV independent of systemic inflammation as measured by C-reactive protein. We conclude that work stress may be an additional factor that promotes development of hyperglycemic-metabolic states. If supported by prospective evidence, these results may lead to new approaches for primary prevention of hyperglycemia in the workplace. PMID:27532642

HDM/PASCAL Verification System User's Manual

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hare, D.

1983-01-01

The HDM/Pascal verification system is a tool for proving the correctness of programs written in PASCAL and specified in the Hierarchical Development Methodology (HDM). This document assumes an understanding of PASCAL, HDM, program verification, and the STP system. The steps toward verification which this tool provides are parsing programs and specifications, checking the static semantics, and generating verification conditions. Some support functions are provided such as maintaining a data base, status management, and editing. The system runs under the TOPS-20 and TENEX operating systems and is written in INTERLISP. However, no knowledge is assumed of these operating systems or of INTERLISP. The system requires three executable files, HDMVCG, PARSE, and STP. Optionally, the editor EMACS should be on the system in order for the editor to work. The file HDMVCG is invoked to run the system. The files PARSE and STP are used as lower forks to perform the functions of parsing and proving.

Development of utility generic functional requirements for electronic work packages and computer-based procedures

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

Oxstrand, Johanna

The Nuclear Electronic Work Packages - Enterprise Requirements (NEWPER) initiative is a step toward a vision of implementing an eWP framework that includes many types of eWPs. This will enable immediate paper-related cost savings in work management and provide a path to future labor efficiency gains through enhanced integration and process improvement in support of the Nuclear Promise (Nuclear Energy Institute 2016). The NEWPER initiative was organized by the Nuclear Information Technology Strategic Leadership (NITSL) group, which is an organization that brings together leaders from the nuclear utility industry and regulatory agencies to address issues involved with information technology usedmore » in nuclear-power utilities. NITSL strives to maintain awareness of industry information technology-related initiatives and events and communicates those events to its membership. NITSL and LWRS Program researchers have been coordinating activities, including joint organization of NEWPER-related meetings and report development. The main goal of the NEWPER initiative was to develop a set of utility generic functional requirements for eWP systems. This set of requirements will support each utility in their process of identifying plant-specific functional and non-functional requirements. The NEWPER initiative has 140 members where the largest group of members consists of 19 commercial U.S. nuclear utilities and eleven of the most prominent vendors of eWP solutions. Through the NEWPER initiative two sets of functional requirements were developed; functional requirements for electronic work packages and functional requirements for computer-based procedures. This paper will describe the development process as well as a summary of the requirements.« less

Characteristics of a global classification system for perinatal deaths: a Delphi consensus study.

PubMed

Wojcieszek, Aleena M; Reinebrant, Hanna E; Leisher, Susannah Hopkins; Allanson, Emma; Coory, Michael; Erwich, Jan Jaap; Frøen, J Frederik; Gardosi, Jason; Gordijn, Sanne; Gulmezoglu, Metin; Heazell, Alexander E P; Korteweg, Fleurisca J; McClure, Elizabeth; Pattinson, Robert; Silver, Robert M; Smith, Gordon; Teoh, Zheyi; Tunçalp, Özge; Flenady, Vicki

2016-08-15

Despite the global burden of perinatal deaths, there is currently no single, globally-acceptable classification system for perinatal deaths. Instead, multiple, disparate systems are in use world-wide. This inconsistency hinders accurate estimates of causes of death and impedes effective prevention strategies. The World Health Organisation (WHO) is developing a globally-acceptable classification approach for perinatal deaths. To inform this work, we sought to establish a consensus on the important characteristics of such a system. A group of international experts in the classification of perinatal deaths were identified and invited to join an expert panel to develop a list of important characteristics of a quality global classification system for perinatal death. A Delphi consensus methodology was used to reach agreement. Three rounds of consultation were undertaken using a purpose built on-line survey. Round one sought suggested characteristics for subsequent scoring and selection in rounds two and three. The panel of experts agreed on a total of 17 important characteristics for a globally-acceptable perinatal death classification system. Of these, 10 relate to the structural design of the system and 7 relate to the functional aspects and use of the system. This study serves as formative work towards the development of a globally-acceptable approach for the classification of the causes of perinatal deaths. The list of functional and structural characteristics identified should be taken into consideration when designing and developing such a system.

History, anatomical nomenclature, comparative anatomy and functions of the hippocampal formation.

PubMed

El-Falougy, H; Benuska, J

2006-01-01

The complex structures in the cerebral hemispheres is included under one term, the limbic system. Our conception of this system and its special functions rises from the comparative neuroanatomical and neurophysiological studies. The components of the limbic system are the hippocampus, gyrus parahippocampalis, gyrus dentatus, gyrus cinguli, corpus amygdaloideum, nuclei anteriores thalami, hypothalamus and gyrus paraterminalis Because of its unique macroscopic and microscopic structure, the hippocampus is a conspicuous part of the limbic system. During phylogenetic development, the hippocampus developed from a simple cortical plate in amphibians into complex three-dimensional convoluted structure in mammals. In the last few decades, structures of the limbic system were extensively studied. Attention was directed to the physiological functions and pathological changes of the hippocampus. Experimental studies proved that the hippocampus has a very important role in the process of learning and memory. Another important functions of the hippocampus as a part of the limbic system is its role in regulation of sexual and emotional behaviour. The term "hippocampal formation" is defined as the complex of six structures: gyrus dentatus, hippocampus proprius, subiculum proprium, presubiculum, parasubiculum and area entorhinalis In this work we attempt to present a brief review of knowledge about the hippocampus from the point of view of history, anatomical nomenclature, comparative anatomy and functions (Tab. 1, Fig. 2, Ref. 33).

[ROLE OF THE SYMPATHOADRENOMEDULLARY SYSTEM IN FORMATION OF PILOT'S ADAPTATION TO FLIGHT LOADS].

PubMed

Sukhoterin, A F; Pashchenko, P S; Plakhov, N N; Zhuravlev, A G

2015-01-01

Purpose of the work was to evaluate the sympathoadrenomedullary functions and associated psychophysiological reactions of pilots as a function of flight hours on highly maneuverable aircraft. Volunteers to the investigation were 78 pilots (41 pilots of maneuverable aircraft and 37 pilots of bombers and transporters). Selected methods were to enable comprehensive evaluation of the body functioning against flight loads. Our results evidence that piloting of high maneuverable aircraft but not of bombing and transporting aircrafts activates the sympathoadrenomedullary system significantly. This is particularly common to young pilots with the total flying time less than 1000 hours. Adaptive changes to flight factors were noted to develop with age and experience.

Sequential measurement of conjugate variables as an alternative quantum state tomography.

PubMed

Di Lorenzo, Antonio

2013-01-04

It is shown how it is possible to reconstruct the initial state of a one-dimensional system by sequentially measuring two conjugate variables. The procedure relies on the quasicharacteristic function, the Fourier transform of the Wigner quasiprobability. The proper characteristic function obtained by Fourier transforming the experimentally accessible joint probability of observing "position" then "momentum" (or vice versa) can be expressed as a product of the quasicharacteristic function of the two detectors and that unknown of the quantum system. This allows state reconstruction through the sequence (1) data collection, (2) Fourier transform, (3) algebraic operation, and (4) inverse Fourier transform. The strength of the measurement should be intermediate for the procedure to work.

Interface cloning and sharing: Interaction designs for conserving labor and maintaining state across 24X7 sensor operations teams

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ganter, John H.; Reeves, Paul C.

2017-05-01

Processing remote sensing data is the epitome of computation, yet real-time collection systems remain human-labor intensive. Operator labor is consumed by both overhead tasks (cost) and value-added production (benefit). In effect, labor is taxed and then lost. When an operator comes on-shift, they typically duplicate setup work that their teammates have already performed many times. "Pass down" of state information can be difficult if security restrictions require total logouts and blank screens - hours or even days of valuable history and context are lost. As work proceeds, duplicative effort is common because it is typically easier for operators to "do it over" rather than share what others have already done. As we begin a major new system version, we are refactoring the user interface to reduce time and motion losses. Working with users, we are developing "click budgets" to streamline interface use. One basic function is shared clipboards to reduce the use of sticky notes and verbal communication of data strings. We illustrate two additional designs to share work: window copying and window sharing. Copying (technically, shallow or deep object cloning) allows any system user to duplicate a window and configuration for themselves or another to use. Sharing allows a window to have multiple users: shareholders with read-write functionality and viewers with read-only. These solutions would allow windows to persist across multiple shifts, with a rotating cast of shareholders and viewers. Windows thus become durable objects of shared effort and persistent state. While these are low-tech functions, the cumulative labor savings in a 24X7 crew position (525,000 minutes/year spread over multiple individuals) would be significant. New design and implementation is never free and these investments typically do not appeal to government acquisition officers with short-term acquisition-cost concerns rather than a long-term O and M (operations and maintenance) perspective. We share some successes in educating some officers, in collaboration with system users, about the human capital involved in operating the systems they are acquiring.

Variability in Dopamine Genes Dissociates Model-Based and Model-Free Reinforcement Learning.

PubMed

Doll, Bradley B; Bath, Kevin G; Daw, Nathaniel D; Frank, Michael J

2016-01-27

Considerable evidence suggests that multiple learning systems can drive behavior. Choice can proceed reflexively from previous actions and their associated outcomes, as captured by "model-free" learning algorithms, or flexibly from prospective consideration of outcomes that might occur, as captured by "model-based" learning algorithms. However, differential contributions of dopamine to these systems are poorly understood. Dopamine is widely thought to support model-free learning by modulating plasticity in striatum. Model-based learning may also be affected by these striatal effects, or by other dopaminergic effects elsewhere, notably on prefrontal working memory function. Indeed, prominent demonstrations linking striatal dopamine to putatively model-free learning did not rule out model-based effects, whereas other studies have reported dopaminergic modulation of verifiably model-based learning, but without distinguishing a prefrontal versus striatal locus. To clarify the relationships between dopamine, neural systems, and learning strategies, we combine a genetic association approach in humans with two well-studied reinforcement learning tasks: one isolating model-based from model-free behavior and the other sensitive to key aspects of striatal plasticity. Prefrontal function was indexed by a polymorphism in the COMT gene, differences of which reflect dopamine levels in the prefrontal cortex. This polymorphism has been associated with differences in prefrontal activity and working memory. Striatal function was indexed by a gene coding for DARPP-32, which is densely expressed in the striatum where it is necessary for synaptic plasticity. We found evidence for our hypothesis that variations in prefrontal dopamine relate to model-based learning, whereas variations in striatal dopamine function relate to model-free learning. Decisions can stem reflexively from their previously associated outcomes or flexibly from deliberative consideration of potential choice outcomes. Research implicates a dopamine-dependent striatal learning mechanism in the former type of choice. Although recent work has indicated that dopamine is also involved in flexible, goal-directed decision-making, it remains unclear whether it also contributes via striatum or via the dopamine-dependent working memory function of prefrontal cortex. We examined genetic indices of dopamine function in these regions and their relation to the two choice strategies. We found that striatal dopamine function related most clearly to the reflexive strategy, as previously shown, and that prefrontal dopamine related most clearly to the flexible strategy. These findings suggest that dissociable brain regions support dissociable choice strategies. Copyright © 2016 the authors 0270-6474/16/361211-12$15.00/0.

The effects of shift work on physical and mental health.

PubMed

Vogel, Matthias; Braungardt, Tanja; Meyer, Wolfgang; Schneider, Wolfgang

2012-10-01

Occupational engagement is a pre-requisite for continuous income opportunities. Among the changing social circumstances work-related conditions play an increasingly eminent role in psychological and mental well-being. The public discusses the question of a possible association between the demands of modern work life and the increases of psychological, psychosomatic and cardiovascular disorders. Given the socioeconomic implications of psychiatric and psychosomatic suffering in the general population, there is a need to further elucidate the causes of their increasing incidence. From a medical point of view, any organization of work disrupting the phased circadian rhythms for bio-psycho-social processes and functioning of the individual are interesting against the background of clock genes and certain biological functions that are organized in a circadian fashion. The authors review the influence of shift work as a form of systematic desynchronization of inner clock systems on the endocrine, the physical, and the mental level. The significance of the findings in the field is discussed along with future directions of conclusive research.

A genetic algorithms approach for altering the membership functions in fuzzy logic controllers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shehadeh, Hana; Lea, Robert N.

1992-01-01

Through previous work, a fuzzy control system was developed to perform translational and rotational control of a space vehicle. This problem was then re-examined to determine the effectiveness of genetic algorithms on fine tuning the controller. This paper explains the problems associated with the design of this fuzzy controller and offers a technique for tuning fuzzy logic controllers. A fuzzy logic controller is a rule-based system that uses fuzzy linguistic variables to model human rule-of-thumb approaches to control actions within a given system. This 'fuzzy expert system' features rules that direct the decision process and membership functions that convert the linguistic variables into the precise numeric values used for system control. Defining the fuzzy membership functions is the most time consuming aspect of the controller design. One single change in the membership functions could significantly alter the performance of the controller. This membership function definition can be accomplished by using a trial and error technique to alter the membership functions creating a highly tuned controller. This approach can be time consuming and requires a great deal of knowledge from human experts. In order to shorten development time, an iterative procedure for altering the membership functions to create a tuned set that used a minimal amount of fuel for velocity vector approach and station-keep maneuvers was developed. Genetic algorithms, search techniques used for optimization, were utilized to solve this problem.

Phase space explorations in time dependent density functional theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rajam, Aruna K.

Time dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) is one of the useful tools for the study of the dynamic behavior of correlated electronic systems under the influence of external potentials. The success of this formally exact theory practically relies on approximations for the exchange-correlation potential which is a complicated functional of the co-ordinate density, non-local in space and time. Adiabatic approximations (such as ALDA), which are local in time, are most commonly used in the increasing applications of the field. Going beyond ALDA, has been proved difficult leading to mathematical inconsistencies. We explore the regions where the theory faces challenges, and try to answer some of them via the insights from two electron model systems. In this thesis work we propose a phase-space extension of the TDDFT. We want to answer the challenges the theory is facing currently by exploring the one-body phase-space. We give a general introduction to this theory and its mathematical background in the first chapter. In second chapter, we carryout a detailed study of instantaneous phase-space densities and argue that the functionals of distributions can be a better alternative to the nonlocality issue of the exchange-correlation potentials. For this we study in detail the interacting and the non-interacting phase-space distributions for Hookes atom model. The applicability of ALDA-based TDDFT for the dynamics in strongfields can become severely problematic due to the failure of single-Slater determinant picture.. In the third chapter, we analyze how the phase-space distributions can shine some light into this problem. We do a comparative study of Kohn-Sham and interacting phase-space and momentum distributions for single ionization and double ionization systems. Using a simple model of two-electron systems, we have showed that the momentum distribution computed directly from the exact KS system contains spurious oscillations: a non-classical description of the essentially classical two-electron dynamics. In Time dependent density matrix functional theory (TDDMFT), the evolution scheme of the 1RDM (first order reduced density matrix) contains second-order reduced density matrix (2RDM), which has to be expressed in terms of 1RDMs. Any non-correlated approximations (Hartree-Fock) for 2RDM would fail to capture the natural occupations of the system. In our fourth chapter, we show that by applying the quasi-classical and semi-classical approximations one can capture the natural occupations of the excited systems. We study a time-dependent Moshinsky atom model for this. The fifth chapter contains a comparative work on the existing non-local exchange-correlation kernels that are based on current density response frame work and the co-moving frame work. We show that the two approaches though coinciding with each other in linear response regime, actually turn out to be different in non-linear regime.

Method and system for providing work machine multi-functional user interface

DOEpatents

Hoff, Brian D [Peoria, IL; Akasam, Sivaprasad [Peoria, IL; Baker, Thomas M [Peoria, IL

2007-07-10

A method is performed to provide a multi-functional user interface on a work machine for displaying suggested corrective action. The process includes receiving status information associated with the work machine and analyzing the status information to determine an abnormal condition. The process also includes displaying a warning message on the display device indicating the abnormal condition and determining one or more corrective actions to handle the abnormal condition. Further, the process includes determining an appropriate corrective action among the one or more corrective actions and displaying a recommendation message on the display device reflecting the appropriate corrective action. The process may also include displaying a list including the remaining one or more corrective actions on the display device to provide alternative actions to an operator.

FAA Statistical Handbook of Aviation, Calendar Year 1984.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-01-01

rulemaking responsibilities relstive to these functions. The FAA constructs , operates, and maintains the National Airspace System ’. and the facilities which...1 --- 2 - 2 Construcciones Aronauticas C212 -- 2 is 16 28 27 109 %0 ;*. -*"_. ..... .... ........ *...*...*."... p .. ,° TAIA 5.12 (coatiamed) axAFn...and rental aircraft activity. 0 Other Work Use--Any aircraft used for construction work (not included under Part 135), helicopter, hoist, towing

IMPORTANCE OF INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT SYSTEM APPLIED IN HEALTH ESTABLISHMENTS IN ORDER TO RAISE TREATMENT QUALITY.

PubMed

Dodić, Biljana; Miljković, Tatjana; Bjelobrk, Marija; Cemerlic Ađić, Nada; Ađić, Filip; Dodić, Slobodan

2016-01-01

The term "management" is best characterized as "managing" economic or social processes to achieve objectives through a rational use of material and immaterial resources by applying the principles, functions, and management methods. This study has been aimed at evaluating the value of an integrated quality management system implemented at the Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases of Vojvodina to improve the quality of treatment. In the period from 2008 to 2010 about 40 employees from the Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases of Vojvodina attended various courses given by the lecturers of the Faculty of Technical Sciences, where the function and significance of the "International Standards Organization" were explained, after which standards of interest were implemented at the Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases of Vojvodina. The Department of Cardiology has introduced 11 cardiac procedures with 5 special instructions, 14 general procedures, and 7 specific procedures with 2 instructions. The Department of Cardiac Surgery has introduced 7 procedures to be implemented. The "Vojvodina score" model was put into practice for the perioperative evaluation of cardiac surgery risk. During 2014, the Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases ofVojvodina obtained accreditation for the period of 7 years. The integrated quality management system must be applied in order to achieve a high level of health care in the shortest possible time and with the least possible consumption of material and human resources. The application of this system in practice gives a realistic insight into the working processes and facilitates their functioning. It demands and requires constant monitoring of the system efficiency along with continuous changes and improvements of all elements of the working processes and functional units.

Stochastic Dynamics Underlying Cognitive Stability and Flexibility

PubMed Central

Ueltzhöffer, Kai; Armbruster-Genç, Diana J. N.; Fiebach, Christian J.

2015-01-01

Cognitive stability and flexibility are core functions in the successful pursuit of behavioral goals. While there is evidence for a common frontoparietal network underlying both functions and for a key role of dopamine in the modulation of flexible versus stable behavior, the exact neurocomputational mechanisms underlying those executive functions and their adaptation to environmental demands are still unclear. In this work we study the neurocomputational mechanisms underlying cue based task switching (flexibility) and distractor inhibition (stability) in a paradigm specifically designed to probe both functions. We develop a physiologically plausible, explicit model of neural networks that maintain the currently active task rule in working memory and implement the decision process. We simplify the four-choice decision network to a nonlinear drift-diffusion process that we canonically derive from a generic winner-take-all network model. By fitting our model to the behavioral data of individual subjects, we can reproduce their full behavior in terms of decisions and reaction time distributions in baseline as well as distractor inhibition and switch conditions. Furthermore, we predict the individual hemodynamic response timecourse of the rule-representing network and localize it to a frontoparietal network including the inferior frontal junction area and the intraparietal sulcus, using functional magnetic resonance imaging. This refines the understanding of task-switch-related frontoparietal brain activity as reflecting attractor-like working memory representations of task rules. Finally, we estimate the subject-specific stability of the rule-representing attractor states in terms of the minimal action associated with a transition between different rule states in the phase-space of the fitted models. This stability measure correlates with switching-specific thalamocorticostriatal activation, i.e., with a system associated with flexible working memory updating and dopaminergic modulation of cognitive flexibility. These results show that stochastic dynamical systems can implement the basic computations underlying cognitive stability and flexibility and explain neurobiological bases of individual differences. PMID:26068119

Coverage and velocity dependent sticking coefficient and particle emission kinetics in the Cl2gas + Ksolid reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hellberg, Lars; Kasemo, Bengt

Some strongly exothermic and non-adiabatic surface adsorption events, especially those where electronegative molecules adsorb on very electropositive (low work function) surfaces, are accompanied by emission of (exo)electrons, photons, excited atoms and negative ions. The reaction of halogen molecules with halogen surfaces constitute an efficient model system for such studies. We have previously reported data for the emission of negative particles and photons in the zero coverage limit for a range of velocities of Cl2 molecules impinging on cold potassium surfaces as well as the mechanism behind these emission processes. In the present work, we focus on measurements of the kinetics, i.e. the exposure/coverage dependence, of these processes for the same system. Specifically, we present data for, (i) the separated contributions from electrons and Cl- ions of the emitted negative particles, (ii) the photon emission stemming both from excited Potassium atoms and from the equivalent process causing electron emission, (iii) the change of the work function during the initial exposure and, finally, (iv) the sticking coefficient for different Cl2 velocities and exposures.

System for analysing sickness absenteeism in Poland.

PubMed

Indulski, J A; Szubert, Z

1997-01-01

The National System of Sickness Absenteeism Statistics has been functioning in Poland since 1977, as the part of the national health statistics. The system is based on a 15-percent random sample of copies of certificates of temporary incapacity for work issued by all health care units and authorised private medical practitioners. A certificate of temporary incapacity for work is received by every insured employee who is compelled to stop working due to sickness, accident, or due to the necessity to care for a sick member of his/her family. The certificate is required on the first day of sickness. Analyses of disease- and accident-related sickness absenteeism carried out each year in Poland within the statistical system lead to the main conclusions: 1. Diseases of the musculoskeletal and peripheral nervous systems accounting, when combined, for 1/3 of the total sickness absenteeism, are a major health problem of the working population in Poland. During the past five years, incapacity for work caused by these diseases in males increased 2.5 times. 2. Circulatory diseases, and arterial hypertension and ischaemic heart disease in particular (41% and 27% of sickness days, respectively), create an essential health problem among males at productive age, especially, in the 40 and older age group. Absenteeism due to these diseases has increased in males more than two times.

Your Money and the Federal Reserve System.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, Minn.

The booklet explores various roles which money has played throughout history and examines the relationship between money and the Federal Reserve System. The major objective is to increase understanding of the performance of various functions such as making money work as a medium of exchange and as a measure of value and of storing value for future…

An Introduction to Logic Control Systems for the Behavioral Scientist, Part I, Text.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Larsen, Lawrence A.

This programed instruction course gives a basic introduction to solid state programing equipment. Course objectives include giving the student (1) a working knowledge of the various types of units used in building digital logic control systems and (2) an idea of how they interconnect to perform different functions. The course has no prerequisites…

Using Systems Theory to Understand the Identity of Academic Advising: A Case Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bridgen, Sean

2017-01-01

For decades, advising practitioners and scholars have worked toward developing an identity for advising as a unique field of scholarly inquiry and practice. To date, the identity crisis in advising remains. This study presents an examination and description of the function, purpose, and identity of a university advising system through comparisons…

Conceptualizing the Functional Requirements for a Next-Generation E-Portfolio System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mu, Enrique; Wormer, Sallie; Foizey, Roberta; Barkon, Beverly; Vehec, Mark

2010-01-01

The use of e-portfolio systems in higher education has not grown as anticipated by early adopters when the potential benefits first became apparent, yet the promise remains. The vision of a flexible tool that meets multiple goals--serving as a showcase for student work, promoting self-reflection, supporting assessment and accreditation efforts,…

Visual Representation of Eye Gaze Is Coded by a Nonopponent Multichannel System

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Calder, Andrew J.; Jenkins, Rob; Cassel, Anneli; Clifford, Colin W. G.

2008-01-01

To date, there is no functional account of the visual perception of gaze in humans. Previous work has demonstrated that left gaze and right gaze are represented by separate mechanisms. However, these data are consistent with either a multichannel system comprising separate channels for distinct gaze directions (e.g., left, direct, and right) or an…

Perspectives on Simulation and Miniaturization. Professional Paper No. 1472.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McCluskey, Michael R.

Simulation--here defined as a physical, procedural, or symbolic representation of certain aspects of a functioning system, or as a working model or representation of a real world system--has at least four areas of application: (1) training where the objective of simulation is to provide the trainee with a learning environment that will facilitate…

Reorganization of the Public School System. Bulletin, 1916, No. 8

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bunker, Frank Forest

1916-01-01

The movement toward a functional reorganization of the school system began more than two decades ago, and has survived two of the stages through which every project, on its way from inception to practice, must necessarily pass: that of academic discussion and that of consideration of working plans. It is now entering the final stage, that of…

Role of the endocannabinoid system in brain functions relevant for schizophrenia: an overview of human challenge studies with cannabis or ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

PubMed

Bossong, Matthijs G; Jansma, J Martijn; Bhattacharyya, Sagnik; Ramsey, Nick F

2014-07-03

Accumulating evidence suggests involvement of the endocannabinoid system in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, which signifies a potential application for this system in the treatment of this disorder. However, before new research can focus on potential treatments that work by manipulating the endocannabinoid system, it needs to be elucidated how this system is involved in symptoms of schizophrenia. Here we review human studies that investigated acute effects of cannabis or ∆9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on brain functions that are implicated in schizophrenia. Results suggest that the impact of THC administration depends on the difficulty of the task performed. Impaired performance of cognitive paradigms is reported on more challenging tasks, which is associated with both activity deficits in temporal and prefrontal areas and a failure to deactivate regions of the default mode network. Comparable reductions in prefrontal activity and impairments in deactivation of the default mode network are seen in patients during performance of cognitive paradigms. Normal performance levels after THC administration demonstrated for less demanding tasks are shown to be related to either increased neural effort in task-specific regions ('neurophysiological inefficiency'), or recruitment of alternative brain areas, which suggests a change in strategy to meet cognitive demands. Particularly a pattern of performance and brain activity corresponding with an inefficient working memory system is consistently demonstrated in patients. These similarities in brain function between intoxicated healthy volunteers and schizophrenia patients provide an argument for a role of the endocannabinoid system in symptoms of schizophrenia, and further emphasize this system as a potential novel target for treatment of these symptoms. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Facial expressivity during the clinical interview as a predictor functional disability in schizophrenia. a pilot study.

PubMed

Troisi, Alfonso; Pompili, Enrico; Binello, Luigi; Sterpone, Alessandro

2007-03-30

Despite the central role of nonverbal behavior in regulating social interactions, its relationship to functional disability in schizophrenia has received little empirical attention. This study aimed at assessing the relationship of patients' spontaneous facial expressivity during the clinical interview to clinician-rated and self-reported measures of functional disability. The nonverbal behavior of 28 stabilized patients with schizophrenia was analyzed by using the Ethological Coding System for Interviews (ECSI). Functional disability was assessed using the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale and the Sheehan Disability Scale (DISS). Partial correlation analysis controlling for the confounding effects of neuroleptic treatment showed that facial expressivity was correlated with the GAF score (r=0.42, P=0.03) and the scores on the subscales of the DISS measuring work (r=-0.52, P=0.005) and social (r=-0.50, P=0.007) disability. In a multiple regression model, nonverbal behavior explained variation in patients' work and social disability better than negative symptoms. The results of this pilot study suggest that deficits in encoding affiliative signals may play a role in determining or aggravating functional disability in schizophrenia. One clinical implication of this finding is that remediation training programs designed to improve nonverbal communication could also serve as a useful adjunct for improving work and social functioning in patients with schizophrenia.

Pain, fatigue and hand function closely correlated to work ability and employment status in systemic sclerosis.

PubMed

Sandqvist, Gunnel; Scheja, Agneta; Hesselstrand, Roger

2010-09-01

To identify factors, individual and work related, influencing work ability, and to assess the association between work ability and employment status, activities of daily life (ADLs) and quality of life in patients with SSc. Fifty-seven consecutive patients (53 females/4 males) with SSc (47 lcSSc/10 dcSSc) were included. Median age was 58 [interquartile range (IQR) 47-62] years and disease duration 14 (9-19) years. The patients were assessed for socio-demographic characteristics, disease parameters, symptoms, work ability, empowerment and adaptations in a workplace, social support, ADLs and quality of life. Work ability, assessed with the Work Ability Index (WAI) could be evaluated in 48 of 57 patients. The correlation between employment status and WAI was good (r(s) = 0.79, P < 0.001). Thirteen patients had good or excellent WAI, 15 had less good and 20 had poor WAI. There were no significant differences between subgroups of WAI and socio-demographic characteristics, disease duration or degree of skin and lung involvement. However, patients with good WAI expressed milder perceived symptoms (pain, fatigue and impaired hand function; P < 0.001). Patients with better WAI had better competence (P < 0.001), better possibility of adaptations at work (P < 0.01) and impact at work (P < 0.01) than those with poorer WAI. In SSc, pain, fatigue and impaired hand function have a dominant impact on the WAI. Employment interventions should include support in job adaptations as well as self-management strategies to help patients deal with pain and fatigue and to enhance the confidence to perform their work.

Combining a hybrid robotic system with a bain-machine interface for the rehabilitation of reaching movements: A case study with a stroke patient.

PubMed

Resquin, F; Ibañez, J; Gonzalez-Vargas, J; Brunetti, F; Dimbwadyo, I; Alves, S; Carrasco, L; Torres, L; Pons, Jose Luis

2016-08-01

Reaching and grasping are two of the most affected functions after stroke. Hybrid rehabilitation systems combining Functional Electrical Stimulation with Robotic devices have been proposed in the literature to improve rehabilitation outcomes. In this work, we present the combined use of a hybrid robotic system with an EEG-based Brain-Machine Interface to detect the user's movement intentions to trigger the assistance. The platform has been tested in a single session with a stroke patient. The results show how the patient could successfully interact with the BMI and command the assistance of the hybrid system with low latencies. Also, the Feedback Error Learning controller implemented in this system could adjust the required FES intensity to perform the task.

Multi-Modal Traveler Information System - Information Clearinghouse Final Network

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1997-07-23

This Working Paper will summarize the lessons learned from the initial implementation of the Information Clearinghouse and outline the proposed configuration and functional capabilities of the Final Network. In addition, all new users added since Mar...

Unsticking traffic : when transit works, and why

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1994-10-01

The Urban Transportation Performance Monitoring System (UTPM) is a new and functional customer-oriented analytical method for measuring the performance of transportation on an intermodal level. UTPM is known as the "Mogridge-Lewis effect" after its p...

A Theoretical Mechanism of Szilard Engine Function in Nucleic Acids and the Implications for Quantum Coherence in Biological Systems

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

Matthew Mihelic, F.

2010-12-22

Nucleic acids theoretically possess a Szilard engine function that can convert the energy associated with the Shannon entropy of molecules for which they have coded recognition, into the useful work of geometric reconfiguration of the nucleic acid molecule. This function is logically reversible because its mechanism is literally and physically constructed out of the information necessary to reduce the Shannon entropy of such molecules, which means that this information exists on both sides of the theoretical engine, and because information is retained in the geometric degrees of freedom of the nucleic acid molecule, a quantum gate is formed through whichmore » multi-state nucleic acid qubits can interact. Entangled biophotons emitted as a consequence of symmetry breaking nucleic acid Szilard engine (NASE) function can be used to coordinate relative positioning of different nucleic acid locations, both within and between cells, thus providing the potential for quantum coherence of an entire biological system. Theoretical implications of understanding biological systems as such 'quantum adaptive systems' include the potential for multi-agent based quantum computing, and a better understanding of systemic pathologies such as cancer, as being related to a loss of systemic quantum coherence.« less

A Theoretical Mechanism of Szilard Engine Function in Nucleic Acids and the Implications for Quantum Coherence in Biological Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matthew Mihelic, F.

2010-12-01

Nucleic acids theoretically possess a Szilard engine function that can convert the energy associated with the Shannon entropy of molecules for which they have coded recognition, into the useful work of geometric reconfiguration of the nucleic acid molecule. This function is logically reversible because its mechanism is literally and physically constructed out of the information necessary to reduce the Shannon entropy of such molecules, which means that this information exists on both sides of the theoretical engine, and because information is retained in the geometric degrees of freedom of the nucleic acid molecule, a quantum gate is formed through which multi-state nucleic acid qubits can interact. Entangled biophotons emitted as a consequence of symmetry breaking nucleic acid Szilard engine (NASE) function can be used to coordinate relative positioning of different nucleic acid locations, both within and between cells, thus providing the potential for quantum coherence of an entire biological system. Theoretical implications of understanding biological systems as such "quantum adaptive systems" include the potential for multi-agent based quantum computing, and a better understanding of systemic pathologies such as cancer, as being related to a loss of systemic quantum coherence.

A Fabry-Pérot electro-optic sensing system using a drive-current-tuned wavelength laser diode.

PubMed

Kuo, Wen-Kai; Wu, Pei-Yu; Lee, Chang-Ching

2010-05-01

A Fabry-Pérot enhanced electro-optic sensing system that utilizes a drive-current-tuned wavelength laser diode is presented. An electro-optic prober made of LiNbO(3) crystal with an asymmetric Fabry-Pérot cavity is used in this system. To lock the wavelength of the laser diode at resonant condition, a closed-loop power control scheme is proposed. Experiment results show that the system can keep the electro-optic prober at high sensitivity for a long working time when the closed-loop control function is on. If this function is off, the sensitivity may be fluctuated and only one-third of the best level in the worst case.